For the purpose of this chapter, certain terms or words herein shall be interpreted as follows:
A. 
The word "person" includes a firm, association, organization, partnership, trust, company or corporation as well as an individual.
B. 
The present tense includes the future tense, the singular number includes the plural, and the plural number includes the singular.
C. 
The words "shall" and "will" are mandatory; the word "may" is permissive.
For the purpose of this chapter, certain terms or words herein shall be interpreted as follows:
ABANDONED
The cessation of a nonconforming use. Abandonment is indicated by the stated intention or otherwise apparent action of an owner to discontinue a nonconforming use of a structure or lot, such as the removal of characteristic equipment or furnishings used in the performance of the nonconforming use, without its replacement by similar equipment or furnishings, or the replacement of a nonconforming use by a conforming use. See Article XIII. In its context, abandonment will have been deemed to have occurred when an owner has failed to timely act on any permit or approval.
[Added 7-20-2017]
ABATTOIR (SLAUGHTERHOUSE)
A building used for the for-profit slaughtering of animals that are either raised or transported to the building and the processing and storage of animal products and waste that results from a slaughtering process. A slaughterhouse is designed to accommodate the confinement and slaughtering of live animals and may include packing, treating, storage or sale of the product on the premises.
[Added 7-20-2017]
ABUTTER
Any person whose property is located in New Hampshire and adjoins or is directly across the street or stream from the land under consideration.
ACCESS DRIVE
A private vehicular right-of-way providing access from an approved public street to a single multifamily residential or nonresidential building lot.
[Added 6-5-2007]
ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT
A residential living unit that is within or attached to a single-family dwelling, and that provides independent living facilities for one or more persons, including provisions for sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation, on the same parcel of land as the principal dwelling unit it accompanies.
[Added 7-20-2017]
ACCESSORY USE
A building or use subordinate and customarily incidental to the main building or use on the same lot. The term "accessory building" when used in connection with agriculture shall include all buildings customarily used for farm purposes.
ADVERTISING DEVICE
Shall include any billboard, sign, notice, poster, display figure, painting, message, placard card or any other device which is designated or intended to attract or which attracts the attention of operators of motor vehicles and/or pedestrians and shall include a structure erected or used in connection with the display of any such device and all lighting or other attachments used in conjunction therewith.
[Added 1-7-2014]
AEROPONIC
A type of indoor growing system that involves suspending plants in the air, usually on vertically oriented growing frames or towers, and nourishing them by spraying their root structures with nutrient and water solution.
[Added 4-15-2021]
AGRICULTURE
Any area of land, including structures thereon, that is used for agricultural purposes, including forestry. This includes the raising of cows, horses, poultry, and other livestock; horticulture and orchards; logging of a forest, woodland, or plantation; selling of products primarily grown or raised directly on such land; and the building, altering or maintaining of woods roads, agricultural roads, skidways, landings, fences, drainage systems, and farm ponds. Any such use shall be deemed to be a permitted use only if it is conducted in accordance with the restrictions of the current Town of Derry and State Health and Sanitary Codes and the Best Management Practices for Animal Husbandry, as published by the New Hampshire Department of Agriculture, Markets and Foods, most recent edition.
[Amended 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
AGRICULTURE, COMMERCIAL
Agricultural use of land for the principal purpose of sale of agricultural products grown either on or off the premises, or for animal husbandry, including any sales facilities located on the premises. A single-family detached dwelling is a permitted accessory use. This term shall not include the use of biomass fertilizer and/or the raising of pigs or mink.
[Added 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
AGRICULTURE, NONCOMMERCIAL
Agricultural use of land accessory to a residential use.
[Added 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
AGRITOURISM
Any practice on a farm incident to, or in conjunction with, farming operations, including but not limited to: preparation for market, delivery to storage or to market, or to carriers for transportation to market of any products or materials from the farm; the transportation to the farm of supplies and materials; the transportation of farm workers; forestry or lumbering operations; the marketing or selling, at wholesale or retail, of any products from the farm, on-site and off-site where not prohibited by local regulations. Marketing includes agritourist, which means attracting visitors to a farm to attend events and activities that are accessory uses to the primary farm operation, including, but not limited to, eating a meal, making overnight stays, enjoyment of the farm equipment, education about farm operations, or active involvement in the operation of the farm. This use also includes irrigation of growing crops from private water supplies or public water supplies where not prohibited by state or local rule or regulation; the use of dogs for herding, working or guiding livestock as defined in RSA 21:34-a,II(a)(4); the production and storage of compost and the materials necessary to produce compost, whether such materials originate, in whole or in part, from operations at the farm.
[Added 7-20-2017]
ANIMAL HOSPITAL (VETERINARY CLINIC)
Any building or portion of building designed or used for the care, observation, or treatment of domestic animals by a licensed veterinarian.
[Added 7-20-2017]
APARTMENT HOUSE
A building arranged or intended or designed to be occupied by three or more families living independently of each other and doing their cooking upon the premises, or by three or more individuals living independently but having a common heating system and a general dining room.
AQUAPONICS
A system of aquaculture in which the waste produced by farmed fish or other aquatic animals supplies nutrients for plants grown hydroponically, which, in turn, purify the water.
[Added 4-15-2021]
AQUIFER
Geological formation composed of rock or sand and/or gravel that contains significant amounts of potentially recoverable potable water.
[Added 7-20-2017]
ARTIST/ARTISAN/CRAFTSMAN
A person whose major profession is the practice of an artistic discipline or who produces and/or sells handmade goods, possibly in the same facility as the production studio.
[Added 7-20-2017]
ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY
A residential care facility for elderly persons, the age restrictions and/or other requirements for which shall not be inconsistent with federal and state law, that is licensed by the state, containing a common dining facility and accessory uses typically needed by elderly residents. Medication dispensing and assistance with daily living activities may be provided.
[Added 4-17-2007]
ATTACHED
Connected or joined to something. As applied to accessory dwelling units (ADU), "attached" means there is a common wall or habitable space between the principal dwelling unit and the ADU.
[Added 7-20-2017]
AUTOMOBILE AND SIMILAR VEHICLE SALES FACILITY
A building and/or lot used principally for the commercial display, sale, lease or rental of new or used automobiles or other motor vehicles, with or without an accessory use for the repair or reconditioning of such vehicles.
[Added 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
AUTOMOBILE REPAIR FACILITY/GARAGE
A building and/or lot used principally for the repair and/or servicing of passenger and other light-duty motor vehicles. May include structural repairs, painting, and work involving the use of machinery. Outdoor storage shall be governed by the Land Development Control Regulations of the Town of Derry.[1] This use excludes the sale of vehicles.
[Added 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
AUTOMOBILE SERVICE STATION
A building and/or lot used principally for the selling of gasoline, oil and related products for motor vehicles. This use may contain an accessory use for the repair and/or servicing of passenger and other light-duty motor vehicles. If the station contains more than two service bays, it shall be classified as an automobile repair garage. See "filling station." This use excludes the sale of vehicles.
[Added 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
AVIATION
The operation of, or any function associated with, aircraft.
AWNING, SIGN
The sign area affixed or otherwise included in an awning structure. For purposes of sign area, the total combined text or advertising shall be included in one sign type. Area is calculated by the combined total of all advertising elements.
[Added 1-7-2014]
BANK
An establishment for the custody, loan, exchange, or issue of money for the extension of credit and for facilitating the transmission of funds, whether it is a drive-through, drive-up or conventional walkup and walk-in use.
BED-AND-BREAKFAST
See definition of "tourist home."
[Amended 3-18-2003]
BILLBOARD
Large outdoor, off-premises advertising device, the display space of which is typically leased to, rented to and/or used by a business or organization — for commercial or noncommercial purposes — for a designated period of time. In addition to traditional billboards (in which large pieces of printed paper are affixed to a durable backing on a structure), billboards also encompass other formats, such as digital billboards and inflatable billboards.
[Added 1-7-2014]
BOTTLING FACILITY
A premises where any beverage is manufactured and includes all offices, cooling-rooms, vaults, yards, cellars, and storerooms connected therewith or where any part of the process of manufacture of beverages is carried on, or where any apparatus connected with such manufacturing is kept or used, or where any of the products of manufacturing are kept or stored.
[Added 7-20-2017]
BREW PUB
A manufacturer of beer or specialty beer, not exceeding 2,500 barrels annually, which, as a functional part of its business, maintains a full-service restaurant serving the beer it manufactures as well as other beverage and liquor as allowed by RSA 178:21, II(a)(1) and RSA 178:22, V(q).
[Added 7-20-2017]
BREWER
A person who makes or produces beer or similar alcoholic beverages in a facility specially designed for that production.
[Added 7-20-2017]
BREWERY
An industrial use that brews or manufactures ales, beers, meads and/or other beverages on site. Breweries are classified as a use that manufactures more than 15,000 barrels of beverages (all beverages combined) annually. In addition, uses that manufacture 15,000 barrels of beverage or less, but which do not meet one or more of the requirements needed to be considered brew pubs, are breweries. A brewery may include all offices, granaries, mash-rooms, cooling-rooms, vaults, yards, cellars, and storerooms connected therewith or where any part of the process of the manufacture of beer or other beverages is carried on, or where any apparatus connected with such manufacture is kept or used, or where any of the products of brewing or fermentation are kept or stored. This use may also include an accessory restaurant.
[Added 7-20-2017]
BUFFER
An area of land, including landscaping, berms, walls, fences, and building setbacks, that is located between land uses of different character and is intended to mitigate negative impacts of the more intense use on a residential or vacant parcel. An appropriate buffer may vary depending on uses, districts, size, etc., and shall be determined by the Planning Board.
[Added 7-20-2017]
BUILDING
A constructed unit forming a shelter for persons, animals or property and having a roof and being permanently located on the land. Where the context allows, the word "building" shall be construed as followed by the words "or part thereof."
BUILDING AREA
The percentage of lot area or square footage, as applicable, covered by a building, exclusive of cornices, eaves, gutters, chimneys, porches without roofs and bay windows. In determining building area, principal and accessory buildings shall be included.
[Added 7-20-2017]
BUILDING, ACCESSORY
A detached or attached building, the use of which is customarily incidental and subordinate to that of the principal building, and which is located on the same lot as that occupied by the principal building. An accessory building may include, but is not limited to, a utility shed, porch, barn, or garage. The term "accessory building," when used in conjunction with agriculture, shall include all buildings customarily used for farm purposes.
[Added 7-20-2017]
BUILDING, FRONT LINE OF
Line parallel to the front lot line transecting that point in the building face which is closest to the front lot line.
BUILDING HEIGHT
Vertical distance measured from the average elevation of the proposed finished grade at the front of the building to the highest point of the roof for flat and mansard roofs and to the average height between the eaves and the ridge for other types of roofs.
BUILDING MATERIAL STORAGE YARD
An area or lot used to stockpile and warehouse inventory for construction purposes and to facilitate the distribution of the inventory. These premises may require loading docks and business offices. The premises may or may not be open to the general public for purchase of inventory as a retail application.
[Added 7-20-2017]
BULK FUEL STORAGE AND DISTRIBUTION
See "fuel and storage tank."
[Added 7-20-2017]
BUS DEPOT
See "transportation center."
[Amended 7-4-2013; 7-16-2015]
CAMPGROUND
Recreation park area of not less than 10 acres which is suitable for camping/tenting and which is provided with electricity, water, sanitary and solid waste disposal facilities and with one or more service buildings, all conforming to the regulations of the State of New Hampshire. Direct access to the campground shall be from a state highway.
CAMPING TRAILER
A non-self-propelled structure, mounted on wheels, requiring for occupancy the unfolding or erection of articulated parts and designed for travel, recreation and vacation use.
CARE AND TREATMENT OF ANIMALS
The building or use for a veterinary establishment, riding school or kennels.
CEMETERY
A use designed for a burial ground of the dead, either public or private, authorized under the laws of the State of New Hampshire.
CENTRALIZED SEWER SYSTEM
Any disposal system designed to locate waste treatment facilities in one area of a development to serve as the disposal system for the entire development and approved for the site by the Department of Environmental Services.
CHANGE IN USE
The conversion of one legally existing use to another permitted use.
[Added 7-20-2017]
CHURCH
A building and/or other structure used principally by a body or organization of religious believers to regularly assemble for worship.
[Added 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
CLINIC
See "health service facility."
[Added 6-4-2013, effective 7-4-2013]
COMMERCIAL
The purchase, sale, or transaction involving the disposition of any article, substance, commodity, or service; the maintenance or conduct of offices, professions, or recreational or amusement enterprises conducted for profit and also including the rental of rooms, business offices, and sales display rooms and premises.
[Added 7-20-2017]
COMMERCIAL PERFORMING AND FINE ARTS SCHOOLS AND STUDIOS
A building used principally for commercial performing or fine arts schools or studios open to the public and that include the teaching of the art. The uses include but are not limited to dance/baton twirling/cheer, drama, music or voice studios, photography, painting, pottery, sculpture, woodworking, scrapbooking, arts and crafts facilities and the like. This definition does not include a sexually oriented business.
[Added 7-7-2015, effective 8-6-2015[2]]
COMMERCIAL SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT
Any place, building or facility where business transactions occur, as the primary function of the premises. This includes display of wares, selling of goods and services, and access to the public for the acquisition of these wares, goods and services. This may also include the premises where the wares, goods and services are manufactured or created; for example, the kitchens where food is prepared for sale. This may also include intangible services such as banking, insurance, etc., or personal services such as a salon or dry cleaner. Contracted services, such as an electrician or plumber, are not included in this definition.
[Amended 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012; 6-16-2015, effective 7-16-2015; 7-20-2017]
COMMUNITY CENTER
A building used for recreational, social, educational and cultural activities, open to the public or a designated part of the public, usually owned and operated by a public or nonprofit group or agency.
[Added 7-20-2017]
COMMUNITY FACILITIES/USES
See definition of "public uses."
COMMUNITY WATER SYSTEM
A public water system which serves at least 15 service connections used by year-round residents or regularly serves at least twenty-five-year-round residents.
[Added 7-20-2017]
COMMUNITY-ORIENTED RECREATIONAL FACILITY
Recreational facilities which provide guidance and promote the health, social, educational, physical, vocational and character development of boys and girls with appropriate fundraising events and adult programs, such as, but not limited to, community centers, girls club, boys club, YMCAs and YWCAs.
[Added 7-20-2017]
CONFERENCE CENTER
A place of assembly that is open to the public and to private businesses and organizations on a rental basis, where the primary function is conducting meetings, seminars and events. The definition of conference center shall not include function halls intended primarily for private social functions or entertainment, theaters, concert halls or other assembly uses not primarily related to meetings. Food and/or beverage service for on-premises consumption during scheduled events is considered an accessory use to a conference center. A hotel shall be considered an accessory use to a conference center.
[Added 6-15-2004]
CONGREGATE-CARE FACILITY
A residential facility for elderly persons, the age restrictions and/or other requirements for which shall not be inconsistent with federal and state law, containing efficiency units and one- and two-bedroom units without kitchen facilities. The facility shall contain common dining facilities and other accessory uses typically needed by elderly residents. Services provided shall include but not be limited to housekeeping, meals and transportation. Medical services are not required to be provided.
[Added 4-17-2007]
CONTRACTOR
Person or persons engaged in specialized services to the general public, including electricians, plumbers, HVAC installation or repair services, general repair or installation services, general contractor.
[Added 6-16-2015, effective 7-16-2015]
CONTRACTOR'S YARD
An establishment used for the outdoor repair, maintenance, or storage of a contractor's vehicles, equipment or materials.[3]
[Added 7-20-2017]
COVERAGE
That percentage of the lot area covered by a building. Where not otherwise specified, coverage shall be limited by setback requirements.
CREMATORIUM
A use to reduce (a dead body) to ashes by the action of fire. It is a use generally associated with funeral establishments or may be a separate use designed for cremation.
CULTURAL FACILITIES
A building used for a museum, local historical society, library, noncommercial art gallery, planetarium, science education center and the like. Any such facility shall be subject to site plan review and approval by the Derry Planning Board.
[Added 7-20-2017]
DAY CARE
See "group day-care facility."
[Added 6-4-2013, effective 7-4-2013]
DENSITY
For the purpose of this chapter, density is used to define residential dwelling units per area, and is based on the allowable units per acre in each residential district.
[Added 7-20-2017]
DEVELOPMENT
The construction of improvements on a tract or tracts of land for nonresidential use, single-family subdivisions, multifamily residential use, and/or multiple single-family residences.
[Added 7-20-2017]
DISTRICT
A zoning district, in which only those uses may hereafter occur which are either permitted by right or allowed by special exception under this chapter.
[Added 7-20-2017]
DOMESTIC PETS
Animals commonly kept as household pets such as dogs, cats, small caged animals, and birds (not including fowl) and caged reptiles.
[4]
[Added 8-11-2009]
DWELLING, MULTIFAMILY
A residential building designed for occupancy by three or more families, with the number of families in residence not exceeding the number of dwelling units provided. Proposals for multifamily dwellings shall be subject to review and approval in accordance with the Town of Derry nonresidential site plan review regulations.
DWELLING, SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHED
A freestanding residence designed for and occupied by one family only.
DWELLING, TWO-FAMILY (also DUPLEX)
A residential building designed for occupancy by two families living independently of each other in individual attached dwelling units.
DWELLING UNIT
A combination of rooms connected together, constituting an independent housekeeping establishment, containing cooking, sanitary and sleeping facilities for owner occupancy, rental or lease and physically separated from any other rooms or dwelling units which may be in the same structure. It shall include sectional homes and modular units, provided these units meet the standards of the local building code, but shall not include motel, hotel, lodging house or similar structures.
DYE STUFF MANUFACTURING
Premises used for coloring yarn, cloth, threads and textiles for use in fashion and home decor.
[Added 7-20-2017]
ELECTRIC VEHICLE SUPPLY EQUIPMENT (EVSE)
A charging station for electric vehicles.
[Added 6-16-2015, effective 7-16-2015]
ENCLOSURE
An area that is surrounded by a wall, fence or the like.
[Added 5-20-2014, effective 6-20-2014]
EQUESTRIAN FACILITIES
Commercial horse, donkey, and mule facilities, including: horse ranches, boarding stables, riding schools and academies, horse exhibition facilities, pack stations. This land use includes barns, stables, corrals and paddocks accessory and incidental to the above uses.
[Added 7-20-2017]
EQUIPMENT UP FIT (REPAIR)
Premises used for the repair, maintenance, retrofitting or reconstruction/rebuilding of machinery, equipment, appliances or apparatus.
[Added 7-20-2017]
ESSENTIAL SERVICES FACILITY
Buildings reasonably necessary for the furnishing of such services, by public utility companies, as gas, electrical, sewer, steam or water transmission or distribution systems, including poles, wires, mains, drains, sewers, pipes, conduit cables and similar equipment and accessories in connection therewith.
EXCAVATION AND SOIL REMOVAL
See Article XI, Earth Removal Regulations.
[Added 7-20-2017]
EXCAVATION, COMMERCIAL
The removal of natural material such as loam, sand, gravel, stone, or other fill material for sale in commercial quantities, or for the use in another location.
[Added 7-20-2017]
EXPANSION OF USE
Where the conversion of one legally existing use to another permitted use creates a net increase in the demand for municipal services, or the intensity of use significantly changes. The increase in intensity of use or expansion shall be reviewed by the Planning Director, who shall make a determination as to whether the change or expansion of use warrants review by the Derry Planning Board.
[Added 7-20-2017]
FAMILY
An individual or two or more persons related by blood, marriage or law.
FARM
As defined in NH RSA 21:34-a, and as amended from time to time, any land, buildings or structures on or in which agriculture and farming activities are carried out or conducted, and shall include the residence or residences of owners, occupants, or employees located on such land. Structures shall include all farm outbuildings used in the care of livestock, and in the production and storage of fruit, vegetables, or nursery stock; in the production of maple syrup; greenhouses for the production of annual or perennial plants; and any other structures used for "agriculture" and "farming" as defined in this chapter. A farm may include a farm roadside stand as defined in this chapter. A farm may include wholesale and retail sale of feed and grain products, incidental and subordinate to agriculture and farming activities, produced either on-site or off-site, along with accessory structures utilized for feed and grain product storage. A farm may also include retail sale of products/livestock that are raised/grown on the property.
[Added 7-20-2017]
FARM ROADSIDE STAND
See "produce stand."
[Added 7-20-2017]
FARMER'S MARKET
A seasonal outdoor event or seasonal outdoor series of events, subject to applicable Town health and safety codes, at which two or more vendors of agricultural commodities gather for purposes of offering for sale such commodities to the public. Commodities offered for sale must include, but are not limited to, products of agriculture as defined in this chapter. A farmer's market shall not include any event held upon the premises owned, leased or otherwise controlled by any individual vendor selling therein. Winter farmer's markets may be held indoors, with the appropriate municipal permits and permissions.
[Added 7-20-2017]
FILLING STATION
A building or structure, or part thereof, or any premises used in connection with tanks, pumps and other appliances for supplying motor vehicles with gasoline, oil, water, compressed air and other similar supplies, but not used for the purpose of making repairs. This use excludes the sale of vehicles.
[Added 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012; amended 6-16-2015, effective 7-16-2015]
FLOODWAY
The area subject to regular flooding, the limits of which are determined by the normal annual high water mark of any lake, pond or other major waterway. With respect to special flood hazard areas, the term "floodway" shall be defined by Article VII, Floodplain Development District.
[Added 7-20-2017]
FORESTRY
The growing or harvesting of forest tree species used for commercial or related purposes.
[Added 7-20-2017]
FOUNDRY
An establishment the primary purpose of which is to work with molten metals to create castings. Receiving of metal products, reducing metals to liquid form, creation of castings and reshaping or reconstructing of metal products, as well as the sale of metal goods from castings, may also occur on these premises. A foundry may also include a showroom or sales floor for the items produced there.
[Added 7-20-2017]
FOWL
Chickens, ducks, geese, guinea fowl, peafowl, pheasant, turkey, grouse, roosters, emu and ostrich.
[Added 8-11-2009; amended 5-20-2014, effective 6-20-2014]
FREIGHT/TRUCKING TERMINAL
Any premises used by a motor freight company as a carrier of goods, which is the origin or destination point of goods begin transported, for the purpose of storing, transferring, loading or unloading goods.
[Added 7-20-2017]
FRONTAGE
The linear distance of any one property line of a lot which abuts an accepted public or private street.
[Added 6-5-2007]
FUEL AND STORAGE TANKS
The storage of chemicals, petroleum products, or hazardous materials in aboveground or below-ground storage containers designed for wholesale distribution or mass consumption.
[Added 7-20-2017]
FUNERAL ESTABLISHMENT
A facility for the preparation of the dead for burial or cremation, for viewing of the body, and for funerals.
GREEN AREA/SPACE
Land area covered by vegetation. Green space or green area may be vegetated with grass, landscape plantings, ground covers, or native vegetation.
[Added 5-7-2015]
GREENWAY/GREENBELT
Passive open space improved only with trails or other pedestrian or bicycle passageways. Greenways link subdivisions to other subdvisions and to activity centers. Greenbelts are located on the edge of a subdivision or community.
[Added 5-7-2015]
GROUNDWATER
Slowly moving subsurface water present in aquifers and recharge areas.
[Added 7-20-2017]
GROUNDWATER RECHARGE AREAS
Areas composed of permeable stratified sand and/or gravel and certain wetlands, which collect precipitation surface water and carry it to aquifers.
[Added 7-20-2017]
GROUP DAY-CARE FACILITY
Both child and adult day care, unless otherwise noted, for a part, but not all, of a twenty-four-hour day.
GROUP RESIDENCE
Includes home for the aged, orphanage, children's home, rest home, extended care facility, student dormitory and similar types of group living accommodations.
HEALTH SERVICE FACILITY
Includes but shall not be limited to a facility providing clinically related outpatient diagnostic, treatment, or rehabilitative services, as well as preventative services, and includes, without limitation, alcohol, drug abuse and mental health services, provided such services are provided by licensed practitioners.
[Added 6-4-2013, effective 7-4-2013]
HOME OCCUPATION/BUSINESS
A use of a professional or service character that has been customarily carried out in the home and conducted within the dwelling by the resident owner thereof which is clearly secondary to the dwelling use for living purposes and which does not change the character thereof.
HOSPITAL
Includes sanitarium, nursing home, convalescent home and other place for the diagnosis, treatment or care of human ailments, licensed for inpatient care by the State of New Hampshire, and its subsidiary structures located on the same lot as the primary facility, including but not limited to clinics, medical offices, laboratories and support buildings.
HOTEL
A facility offering transient lodging accommodations to the general public supervised by a person in charge at all hours, and which may include additional facilities and services such as restaurants, bars, meeting and function rooms, entertainment, personal services, and recreational facilities. This term shall include "inn" and "motel" but shall not include rooming houses, apartment houses or lodging houses. A full-service restaurant is considered an accessory use to a hotel.
[Added 6-15-2004; amended 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
HYDROPONIC AGRICULTURE
A way of growing plants without soil, directly in a mixture of water and nutrients through a growing medium which may include a mineral nutrient solution in an aqueous solvent. Terrestrial plants may be grown with roots exposed to a nutritious liquid, or in addition, the roots may be physically supported by an inert medium such as perlite, gravel or other substrates.
[Added 4-15-2021]
IMPACT FEE
A fee or assessment imposed upon development, including subdivision, building construction or other land use change, in order to help meet the needs occasioned by that development for the construction or improvement of capital facilities owned or operated by the municipality, including and limited to water treatment and distribution facilities; wastewater treatment and disposal facilities; sanitary sewers; stormwater, drainage and flood control facilities; public road systems and rights-of-way; municipal office facilities; public school facilities; the municipality's proportional share of capital facilities of a cooperative or regional school district of which the municipality is a member; public safety facilities; solid waste collection; transfer, recycling, processing and disposal facilities; public library facilities; and public recreational facilities, not including public open space.
[Added 7-20-2017]
INDOOR COMMERCIAL RECREATIONAL FACILITY
A building used principally for indoor commercial recreation as a business for profit, open to the public. The uses include but are not limited to a bowling alley, pool hall, indoor pool, tennis court, gymnasium, health club, auditorium, hand ball court, roller- or ice-skating rink, indoor movie theater and the like. This definition does not include a sexually oriented business.
[Added 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
INDOOR FARMING
Practice of growing crops or plants entirely indoors. Growing methods and tools such as hydroponic, aquaponic, aeroponic, vertical farming and greenhouse growing are utilized. This term does not include "nursery."
[Added 4-15-2021]
INDUSTRIAL
Of, relating to, concerning, or arising from the assembling, fabrication, finishing, manufacturing, packaging, or processing of goods or mineral extraction.
[Added 7-20-2017]
INDUSTRIAL ESTABLISHMENT
A structure and/or lot used principally for the manufacturing, refining, assembling or processing of raw materials or components through the systematic use of machinery and labor, to produce durable and/or nondurable finished goods, component parts, chemicals, foodstuffs or other products. This definition shall not include a power plant, biomass facility or incineration facility. Outdoor storage of goods shall be governed by the Land Development Control Regulations of the Town of Derry.[5]
[Added 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
INDUSTRIAL ESTABLISHMENT, LIGHT
A structure and/or lot used principally for the assembly of components, which are themselves produced off site and which as a final product or by-product do not create any noxious or hazardous substance of any kind, whether the operation is provided with a sophisticated scrubbing, cleaning or reducing process or not.
[Added 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
INDUSTRIAL REPAIR GARAGE
A structure and/or lot used principally for the repair of heavy-duty vehicles, such as front-end loaders, tractor-trailer cabs, dump trucks or similar vehicle types.
[Added 7-20-2017]
INDUSTRIAL SUPPLY
Premises uses to stockpile and warehouse inventory for specific industry purposes and to facilitate the distribution of this inventory. These premises may require loading docks, fabrication or repair facilities and business offices. Depending on the specific use, the premises may or may not be open to the general public for purchase of inventory.
[Added 7-20-2017]
INN
See definition of “motel.”
[Added 3-18-2003]
INTERNAL ACCESS DRIVE
A private vehicular right-of-way within a nonresidential or multifamily site providing access from an approved public street to an individual driveway or parking lots.
[Added 6-5-2007]
JUNK
Old or scrap copper, brass, rope, rags, batteries, paper, trash, rubber debris, waste, or junked, dismantled or wrecked automobiles, or parts thereof, iron, steel and other old or scrap ferrous or nonferrous material.
JUNKYARD
A. 
Any place of storage or deposit, whether in connection with a business or not, where two or more unregistered or old motor vehicles no longer intended or in condition for legal use on the highways are held, whether for the purpose of resale of used parts, for the purpose of reclaiming for use some or all of the materials, whether metal, glass, fabric or otherwise, or to dispose of them or for any other purpose. The term includes any place of storage or deposit for any purpose of used parts or materials from motor vehicles which, when taken together, include in bulk two or more vehicles.
B. 
An establishment or place of business which is maintained, operated or used for storing, keeping, buying or selling junk or for the maintenance or operation of an automobile graveyard, and includes garbage dumps and sanitary fills. The word does not include any motor vehicles registered with the Director of Motor Vehicles under RSA 261:104 and controlled under RSA 236:127.
C. 
It shall not include an establishment operated by a firm or individual registered under the laws of the State of New Hampshire as a new or used motor vehicle dealer, provided the establishment only has wrecked or ruined motor vehicles which are still registered and are not kept or stored for a period exceeding 160 days. Such dealer shall maintain records showing the owner of the vehicle, the number and state of vehicle registration, and the date of its original entrance upon this premises.
KENNEL
An establishment where dogs, cats or other domesticated animals are boarded for compensation or are bred or raised for sale purposes.
[Added 7-20-2017]
LABORATORY (MEDICAL/DENTAL)
A facility for the scientific laboratory analysis of natural resources, medical resources, and manufactured materials. The scientific analysis is generally performed for an outside customer, to support the work of that customer. This category includes environmental laboratories for the analysis of air, water and soil; medical or veterinary laboratories for the analysis of blood, tissue, or other human medical or animal products. Forensic laboratories for the analysis of evidence in support of law enforcement agencies would also be included in this category.
[Added 7-20-2017]
LABORATORY, RESEARCH, EXPERIMENTAL, TESTING
See "research lab."
[Added 7-20-2017]
LANDSCAPING SERVICES
See "commercial service establishment."
[Added 7-20-2017]
LIBRARY
A public facility for the use, but not sale, of literary, musical, artistic, or reference materials.
[Added 6-4-2013, effective 7-4-2013; amended 7-20-2017]
LIVESTOCK
Includes, but is not limited to, horses, cattle, swine, sheep, goats, as well as domesticated strains of buffalo or bison, llamas, alpacas, yaks, elk, and deer species.
[Added 8-11-2009; amended 5-20-2014, effective 6-20-2014]
LIGHT INDUSTRY
The assembly, manufacture, processing or other industrial operations conducted in such a manner that all resulting cinders, dust, fumes, gas, odors, smoke, vapor and waste or emissions are effectively confined to the premises or disposed of so as to avoid any environmental pollution and conducted in such a manner that the noise level at the property line will not exceed 80 decibels and flashing and vibration shall not be perceptible off site.
LIGHT MANUFACTURING
An establishment or activity primarily involved in manufacturing or assembly which does not involve on premise use of heat-, noise-, or odor-generating/producing processes which are detectable off-site. Includes micro and nano breweries.
[Added 6-16-2015, effective 7-16-2015]
LODGING HOUSE
Any dwelling (other than a hotel or motel) in which living accommodations, without individual kitchen facilities, are rented to three or more nontransient guests. A boarding room or rooming house shall be deemed a lodging house.
LOT
A parcel of land occupied, or to be occupied, by only one main building and the accessory building or uses customarily incidental to it, except as may otherwise be provided herein. A lot shall be of sufficient size to meet minimum zoning requirements for use, coverage and area and to provide such yards and other open spaces as are herein required.
LOT AREA
The horizontal area of the lot lying within the lot lines, exclusive of any area in a street right-of-way.
LOT, CORNER
A lot situated at the intersection of, and abutting, two streets which have an angle of intersection of not more than 135º. A lot abutting on a curved street shall be deemed a corner lot if the tangents to the curve at its point of intersection with the side lot lines meet at the interior angle of not more than 135º.
LOT COVERAGE
That percentage of the lot area covered by a building. Where not otherwise specified, coverage shall be limited by setback requirements.
[Added 7-20-2017]
LOT LINE, FRONT
That lot line which directly abuts the street side of the lot, except for lots which have multiple lot lines which abut streets, in which case the front lot line shall be deemed to be that lot line (abutting a street) which the front entrance of a dwelling or building faces.
LOT LINE, REAR
That lot line opposite from the front lot line.
[Added 7-20-2017]
LOT LINE, SIDE
Any lot line which is not a front or rear lot line.
[Added 7-20-2017]
LOT MEASUREMENTS
Depth of a lot means the average horizontal distance from the street line of the lot to its opposite rear line measured in the general direction of the side lines of the lot. Width of a lot means the distance measured across the minimum front setback line.
LOT OF RECORD
A lot which is part of a subdivision of record in the office of the County Register of Deeds or a lot or parcel described by metes and bounds, the description of which has been so recorded.
MAIL ORDER STORAGE YARD
Temporary storage and/or shipping of goods, including mail order processing, package distribution and mailing.
[Added 7-20-2017]
MAIN BUILDING OR USE
A building or use which houses or constitutes the principal activity on the premises. This shall also include the principal building.
MANUFACTURED HOUSING
Any structure, transportable in one or more sections, which, in the traveling mode, is eight body feet or more in width and 40 body feet or more in length or, when erected on site, is 320 square feet or more and which is built on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent foundation when connected to required utilities, which include plumbing, heating and electrical heating systems contained therein. Manufactured housing as defined herein shall not include pre-site-built housing as defined herein.
MANUFACTURING
The making of goods or materials from raw materials or unfinished products, includes assembling and processing. This use may also include a retail component.
[Added 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
MARQUEE
A structure over and in front of an entranceway to a building designed and intended for shelter.
[Added 1-7-2014]
MEDICAL OFFICE
Business and professional offices such as those for doctors, dentists, and related health-care facilities.
[Added 6-4-2013, effective 7-4-2013]
MEMBERSHIP CLUB
Building or use catering to club members and their guests for recreational and social purposes and not operated primarily for profit.
MICROBREWERY
A facility for the production and packaging of malt beverage of low alcoholic content for distribution, retail, or wholesale, on or off premises, with a capacity of not more than 15,000 barrels per year. The development may include other uses such as a standard restaurant, bar or live entertainment as otherwise permitted in the zoning district.
[Added 7-20-2017]
MIXED USE
The development of a tract of land or building or structure with two or more different uses, such as but not limited to residential, office, retail, public, or entertainment, in a compact urban form.
[Added 7-20-2017]
MOBILE HOME
See definition of "manufactured housing."
MOBILE SPORTS WAGERING PLATFORM
A combination of hardware, software, and data networks used to manage, administer, record, and/or control sports wagers.
[Added 2-27-2020]
MODULAR HOUSING
A factory-built structure constructed in accordance with State of New Hampshire and Town of Derry codes, which is manufactured or constructed to be used as a place for human habitation, but which is not constructed or equipped with a permanent hitch or other device allowing it to be attached or towed behind a motor vehicle, and which does not have permanently attached to its body or frame any wheels or axles.
[Added 7-20-2017]
MOTEL
A commercial establishment offering public accommodations comprised of a building or buildings, which contain four or more apartments or living accommodations for ten or more persons, with or without kitchens, and which constitute primarily the temporary abode of persons who have their residence elsewhere. This term shall include hotels and inns but shall not include rooming houses, apartment houses or lodging houses.
[Amended 3-18-2003]
MOTOR HOME
A portable, temporary dwelling to be used for travel, recreation and vacation and constructed as an integral part of a self-propelled vehicle.
MOVIE AND RECORDING STUDIOS
A building used commercially to produce musical or sound recordings or to produce motion pictures.
[Added 7-7-2015, effective 8-6-2015]
MULTI-UNIT COMMERCIAL ESTABLISHMENT
A building or buildings on the same parcel, or more than one parcel, consolidated as a single development, containing two or more nonresidential units or condominiums used principally for providing commercial services, such as a sales establishment, commercial service establishment, warehouse establishment and the like.
[Added 7-20-2017]
MUNICIPAL FACILITIES/USES
See definition of "public uses."
NET BUILDABLE AREA
Land equal to the total parcel area, less wetlands, poorly drained and/or very poorly drained soils.
[Added 5-7-2015]
NONCOMPLYING BUILDING
A structure, or part thereof, not in compliance with this chapter covering building bulk, dimensions, height, area, or yards, or density laws, ordinances and regulations prior to the enactment of this chapter.
NONCONFORMING LOT
A lot lawfully used or existing at the effective date of the Zoning Ordinance, or any subsequent amendment thereto, which is not in accordance with all the area, yard, height and frontage requirements of this chapter, or any subsequent amendment thereto, for the district in which it is located. This shall include a lot for which a building permit was lawfully issued prior to the posting of the first required legal notice of the adoption of this chapter, or any subsequent amendment thereto, and for which the construction is complete within one year of the effective date of this chapter, or any subsequent amendment thereto, or within the time limit prescribed by the building permit or other approval, whichever is shorter.
[Added 7-20-2017]
NONCONFORMING USE
A use which lawfully occupied a building or land on the effective date of this chapter or amendments thereto and that does not conform to the use regulations of the district in which it is located.
NONPROFIT
An organization such as a 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(4) formed for a public or mutual benefit, that is private, self-governing, voluntary, and does not distribute profit to owners or investors.
[6]
[Added 7-20-2017]
NURSERY
A place or greenhouse where nursery stock is propagated, grown, stored, or cultivated or offered for sale.
[Added 7-20-2017]
NURSING HOME
A home licensed by the State of New Hampshire for the aged or chronically or incurably ill persons in which five or more such persons not of the immediate family are provided with food and shelter or care for compensation, but does not include hospitals, clinics or similar institutions devoted primarily to the diagnosis and treatment of the sick or injured.
[Added 7-20-2017]
OFFICE
Place where the business of a commercial, industrial, service or professional organization is transacted.
OFF-LOT SEWER
The provision that sewer shall be by municipal disposal only.
OFF-LOT WATER
Provision of water from a source not located on the same lot as the building for which the water is provided. When the source is not municipal water, the adequacy of the source shall be determined by review of the Planning Board, the Town Engineer and appropriate state authorities.
ON-LOT SEWER
Sewage disposal by means located on the same site as the building in which the sewage is generated.
OPEN SPACE
Land, unoccupied by buildings or structures, that may or may not be deeded conservation land.
[Added 6-4-2013, effective 7-4-2013]
OUTDOOR STORAGE
Storage not in a structure, provided that any storage material, other than new equipment, new building material, or other new products displayed for sale, is fenced or screened.
PARKING FACILITY
A use dedicated to the outdoor storage of registered motor vehicles which may be at ground level, below ground, and/or above ground. Such use shall be devoted to the parking of passenger cars and shall specifically exclude unregistered motor vehicles and trucks registered over one ton.
PARKING SPACE, OFF-STREET
For the purposes of this chapter, an off-street parking space shall consist of a space adequate for parking an automobile with room for opening doors on both sides, together with properly related access to a public or private street, access drive or alley and maneuvering room. Required off-street parking areas for three or more automobiles shall have individual spaces marked and shall be so designed, maintained and regulated that no parking or maneuvering incidental to parking shall be on any public or private street, access drive, walk, or alley, and so that any automobile may be parked without moving another.
[Amended 6-5-2007]
PASTURE
A large area of land where animals feed on the grass.
[Added 5-20-2014, effective 6-20-2014]
PHARMACY
A business substantially devoted to the sale of pharmaceutical items, supplies, and equipment such as prescription drugs.
[Added 7-20-2017]
PRE-SITE-BUILT HOUSING
Any structure designed primarily for residential occupancy which is wholly or in substantial part made, fabricated, formed, or assembled in off-site manufacturing facilities, in conformance with the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development minimum property standards and local building codes, for installation, or assembly and installation, on the building site. For the purposes of this chapter, pre-site-built housing shall not include manufactured housing as defined herein.
PRIMARY BUILDING OR USE
A building or use which houses or constitutes the principal activity on the premises. This shall also include the principal building.
[Added 7-20-2017]
PRINTER
A commercial printing operation involving a process that is considered printing, imprinting, reproducing, or duplicating images and using printing methods including but not limited to off-set printing, lithography, web offset, flexographic and screen process printing.
[Added 4-15-2021]
PRIVATE EDUCATIONAL FACILITY/PRIVATE SCHOOL
Any school which is not a public educational facility and is not a nursery school, such as a private school offering education for students in any grades K through 12, colleges and universities. Any private educational facility shall be subject to the change in use process, site plan determination, or site plan review as determined by the Planning Department. A private educational facility shall not be permitted in the Industrial District(s) unless it is accessory and incidental to another permitted business.
[Added 6-4-2013, effective 7-4-2013; amended 7-7-2015, effective 8-6-2015]
PRIVATE NUISANCE
An activity that substantially and unreasonably interferes with the use and enjoyment of another's property. An activity must cause harm that exceeds customary interferences and be an appreciable and tangible interference with a property interest.
[Added 5-7-2020]
PRODUCE STAND
Seasonal sale of flowers, garden supplies, or agricultural produce designed to serve customers principally traveling by automobile.
PRODUCT ASSEMBLY
The act of creating a whole by the bringing together of the various parts, elements and ingredients that make up the finished item.
[Added 7-20-2017]
PROFESSIONAL OFFICE
Offices for lawyers, engineers, planners, architects, attorneys, insurance, real estate or investment agencies or any similar type of licensed profession. Such uses may occur as home occupations but only in accordance with specific requirements relating to home occupations set forth in this chapter or in the Land Development Control Regulations.[7]
[Added 1-7-2011; amended 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012; 6-16-2015, effective 7-16-2015]
PUBLIC EDUCATION FACILITY
See "public uses, education."
[Added 7-20-2017]
PUBLIC NUISANCE
An unreasonable interference with a right common to the general public. It is behavior which substantially and unreasonably interferes with the health, safety, peace and comfort of the general community.
[Added 5-7-2020]
PUBLIC USES 
Uses by agencies and departments of local, county, state and federal governments, including:
A. 
Cemetery: May include burial ground, mausoleum, cemetery vaults and necessary maintenance structures.
B. 
Education: Includes such functions as elementary, middle, junior high and high schools, college, vocational or technical school, kindergarten, and similar educational institutions.
C. 
Institution: Public facilities primarily engaged in public services such as health and research.
D. 
Office: Includes such functions as office, laboratory, library, post office, clinic, assembly and court.
E. 
Public safety: Includes such functions as fire, police, rescue, and ambulance services.
F. 
Public water and public sewer: Water supply and sewage disposal systems approved by the Town for municipal operation.
G. 
Recreation: Includes such functions as recreation center, senior citizens center, gymnasium, auditorium, and outdoor recreation facilities such as play fields, tennis courts and golf courses.
H. 
Service: Includes such functions as garage, warehouse, vehicular repairs, outside storage for vehicles and supplies, and similar uses.
I. 
Waste treatment: Includes areas or structures for disposal of sewage, solid waste and garbage under the control of a governmental unit, including incinerators, sewage treatment plants, and similar methods of disposal.
J. 
Wastewater treatment: The process, either public or private, of cleaning water which carries wastes from homes, businesses and industries that is a mixture of water and dissolved or suspended solids, in association with required water purification standards. Such use shall include all necessary functions of wastewater treatment, with the exception of storage of sludge and other waste materials.
PUBLIC UTILITY
Buildings, structures and facilities, including generating and switching stations, poles, lines, pipes, pumping stations, repeaters, antennas, transmitters and receivers, valves and all buildings and structures relating to the furnishing of utility services such as electric, gas, telephone, communications, water, sewer and public transit, to the public.
[Added 7-20-2017]
PUBLISHING
Includes printing and related types of operations.
RADIO BROADCAST FACILITY
An installation consisting of one or more transmitters or receivers, etc., used for radio communications. See also "wireless communications facilities."
[Added 6-4-2013, effective 7-4-2013]
RECREATION, ACTIVE
Parks, playgrounds and motorized recreation such as off-highway recreational vehicles (OHRVs), boats, and the like.
[Added 5-7-2015]
RECREATIONAL FACILITY, OUTDOOR
Outdoor recreational activities, including such facilities as outdoor tennis courts, swimming pools, golf courses, play fields, and similar uses. No buildings shall be allowed except for the necessary related uses, such as rest rooms and maintenance facilities.
RECREATION AREA/SPACE
Land set aside for the recreational use, passive or active, of residents or community members.
[Added 5-7-2015]
RECREATION, PASSIVE
Activities such as cross country skiing, hiking and bird watching.
[Added 5-7-2015]
RECYCLING FACILITY
Any location whose primary use is where waste or scrap materials are stored, bought, sold, accumulated, exchanged, packaged, disassembled, or handled, including but not limited to scrap metals, paper, rags, tires, and bottles and other such materials.
[Added 7-20-2017]
REMOVAL OF NATURAL MATERIAL
The removal of loam, sand, gravel, stone or other fill material for sale in commercial quantities or for use in another location.
REPAIR
Any construction which replaces materials and does not change the external structural part, height, number of stories, size, use of, or location of a structure.
[Added 7-20-2017]
REPAIRMAN
One whose profession is to service equipment, appliances, structures, etc., that are broken, nonfunctioning or improperly functioning for the purpose of correcting defects or deficiencies and restoring them to working order.
[Added 7-20-2017]
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT FACILITY
A combination of office and laboratory or light manufacturing space used exclusively for the purpose of new product research or development. The limitations set forth in the definition of "research lab" shall otherwise apply to research and development facilities.
RESEARCH LAB
A use that provides for experimental study, and is not of a manufacturing nature, and at least 50% of the floor space shall be used for office space, and no activities shall result in heavy trucking.
RESTAURANT
A building or other structure used principally to provide refreshments or meals to the public for consumption principally on the premises. This includes a diner, cafe and cafeteria, tea room and the like, and shall not include drive-in restaurants. It shall be an eating establishment which is primarily designed for its patrons to eat at tables, booths or a counter. Takeout refreshments are only incidental to the main purpose of the establishment. The service of alcoholic beverages to patrons seated at tables or at a bar as an appurtenance of a meal, or while waiting to be seated for a meal, shall be considered a use which is customarily incidental to the use of a full-service restaurant.
[Amended 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012[8]]
RESTAURANT, DRIVE-IN
A building used principally to dispense prepared food and/or beverages to the public for consumption on or off premises, the major attributes of which are assembly-line production of food and speed of dispensing, self-service by the customer by standing in line, and/or service to the customer in automobiles, and which generates a large volume and rapid turnover of entering and exiting motor vehicle traffic.
[Added 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
RETAIL SALES ESTABLISHMENT
A structure and/or lot used principally for the sale of products to the public or at wholesale, such as grocery, drug store, general merchandise store, bookstore, department store, or distributor of goods/products and the like. This shall exclude any freestanding retail stand, motor vehicle repair service, new and used car sales and service, trailer and mobile home sales and service, and commercial service. Outdoor storage of goods shall be governed by the Land Development Control Regulations of the Town of Derry.[9] This definition does not include a sexually oriented business.
[Added 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
RIDING SCHOOL
An establishment where horses are boarded and cared for and where instruction in riding, jumping, and showing is offered, and where horses may be hired for riding.
[Added 7-20-2017]
ROOMING HOUSE
See "lodging house."
[Added 7-20-2017]
SALE OF TRAVEL ACCOMMODATIONS
Travel agent's office. See "retail sales establishment."
[Added 6-4-2013, effective 7-4-2013]
SAND/GRAVEL PIT
A lot or land or part thereof used for the purpose of extracting stone, sand, gravel or topsoil for sale and exclusive of the process of grading a lot preparatory to the construction of a building for which application for a building permit has already been made.
[Added 7-20-2017[10]]
SELF-STORAGE FACILITIES
A building or group of buildings divided into separate compartments which may be leased or rented, used to meet the temporary storage needs of small businesses, apartment dwellers and other residential uses, and may include climate-controlled facilities.
[Added 6-1-2018]
SEMIPUBLIC AGENCY
An organization or group that is partially but not entirely open to the use of the public or that is partially but not totally owned by the government, as in a semipublic utility company.
[Added 7-20-2017]
SERVICE AREA
The area adjacent to a building entrance, usually in the rear, through which supplies are received and waste materials are moved.
SETBACK
The horizontal distance measured between the front, side or rear lot line and the closest point of any building or structure contained on the lot.
[Added 7-20-2017]
SEWAGE
The total of organic waste and wastewater generated by residential, industrial, commercial, institutional, or other establishments.
[Added 7-20-2017]
SEXUALLY ORIENTED BUSINESS
Any and all businesses described in § 165-27 of this chapter.
SIGN
Any device having a display surface on one or both sides to inform or attract the attention of persons not on the premises on which the sign is located; provided, however, that the following shall not be included in the application of the regulations contained herein:
A. 
Signs not exceeding one square foot in area and bearing only property numbers, post office box numbers, names of occupants of premises, or other identification of premises.
B. 
Flags and insignia of any government except when displayed in connection with a commercial promotion.
C. 
Legal notices and identification, informational, or directional signs erected as required by governmental bodies.
D. 
Signs directing and guiding traffic and parking on private property, but bearing no advertising.
SIGN, ABANDONED
Any sign that does not display a visibly legible message for a consecutive period of 60 days; any sign the owner of which cannot be located at the owner's last address as reflected in the records of the department; or any sign no longer fully supported by the structure designed to support the sign, for a consecutive period of 60 days. Also refer to § 165-101.9, Nuisance signs. This does not include signs for businesses that are undergoing permitted renovations or that operate seasonally.
[Added 2-7-2014]
SIGN, ATTACHED
A sign that is attached to a building wall.
SIGN, BANNER
A temporary sign of lightweight material (paper, plastic or fabric) hung either with or without frames, including inflatable "tube men" or other inflatable-type signs. Flags and insignias containing only markings of any government, corporation or business are not considered to be banners.
[Added 7-15-2021]
SIGN, DIGITAL
A sign that has advertising or information projected onto it, typically by technological means. This includes electronic signs.
[Added 2-7-2014]
SIGN, DIRECTIONAL
A sign on private property without a commercial message that provides direction, for example, entrances, exits, or street numbers.
[Added 2-7-2014]
SIGN, DISPLAY
A sign that advertises an organization or an organization's event that does not advertise the particular use of the lot on which the event is to be held.
[Added 6-2-2017]
SIGN, ELECTRONIC MESSAGE CENTER
An on-premises sign capable of displaying words, symbols, figures or images that can be electronically or mechanically changed by remote or automatic means, the installation of which is subject to the provisions of § 165-101.11, Electronic message center signs.
[Added 2-7-2014]
SIGN, FLASHING
A sign that has varying degrees of intensity when in use and/or which exhibits changes in light, color, light direction, and/or animation. Electronic message center signs properly operating in accordance with the provisions of § 165-101.11 are not considered flashing signs.
[Amended 4-19-2005; 1-7-2014]
SIGN, FREESTANDING
A sign which is not attached or affixed to a structure or building and which is supported by a pole/s or its supporting members.
SIGN, GOVERNMENT
A sign authorized by this municipality, another government agency, the State of New Hampshire or the federal government. This includes historical, cultural or natural site signs.
[Added 1-7-2014]
SIGN, GROUND
A sign supported by one or more uprights, pylons, or foundation elements, including wheel-mounted (other than on motor vehicles), in or upon the ground, and not attached to a building.
[Added 1-7-2014]
SIGN, INTERACTIVE DIGITAL
A sign that displays a menu that allows a person to touch the screen and respond to the menu's questions.
[Added 1-7-2014]
SIGN, MONUMENT
A sign that is erected on a solid base placed directly on the ground and itself being constructed of a solid material.
SIGN, NONCONFORMING
A sign in place before the effective date of this article that does not comply with all of the requirements of the ordinance.
[Added 1-7-2014]
SIGN, OFFICIAL
Signs of a noncommercial nature erected by or on behalf of government entities or public utilities.
[Added 1-7-2014]
SIGN, OFF-PREMISES
A sign advertising products, services and activities not produced, available, conducted or performed on the property where the sign is located.
[Added 1-7-2014]
SIGNS, ON-PREMISES
A sign that advertises products, services, or activities that are produced, available, conducted or performed on the property where the sign is located.
[Added 7-15-2021]
SIGN, PARAPET
A sign located on a parapet wall (regardless of the height of that wall).
SIGN PERMIT
The Town's authorization for a sign, as issued by the Code Enforcement Office.
[Added 1-7-2014]
SIGN, POLITICAL
Signs erected in connection with elections or political campaigns pursuant to RSA 664:14-23.
[Added 1-7-2014]
SIGN, PROJECTING
A sign affixed to any part of a building or structure which extends beyond the building or structure by more than 12 inches.
[Amended 1-7-2014]
SIGN, RESIDENTIAL NEIGHBORHOOD IDENTIFICATION
A sign at the entrance of a residential neighborhood identifying the neighborhood.
[Added 1-7-2014]
SIGN, ROOF
Any sign that is:
A. 
Located above the level of the eaves on pitched or gambrel roofs.
B. 
Located above the building's roof on a building with a flat roof.
C. 
Located above the top of the vertical wall of a building with a mansard roof.
SIGN, SANDWICH BOARD (A-FRAME)
A self-supporting, freestanding ground sign, hinged at the top and reinforced for stability with side supporting rods/chain/rope, which is portable and temporary in nature. Sandwich board signs shall not exceed four feet in height and two feet in width.
[Added 2-7-2014]
SIGN, SPECIAL EVENT
A sign for limited on-site gatherings. "Special event" shall include, but is not limited to, grand openings, vehicle shows, displays, craft shows, charitable benefits and fund-raisers, performances, athletic competitions, and festivals.
[Added 2-7-2014]
SIGN, SURFACE AREA OF
The surface of a sign shall be computed as including the entire area within a regular geometric form, or combinations of regular geometric forms, comprising all of the display area of the sign, and including all of the elements of the matter displayed. Frames and structural members not bearing advertising matter shall not be included in the computation of the surface area.
SIGN, TEMPORARY
A sign that is used in connection with a circumstance, situation, or event that is designed, intended, or expected to take place or to be completed within a reasonably short or definite period of time after the erection of the sign, or a sign that is intended to remain on the location where it is erected or placed for a reasonably short or definite period of time after the erection of the sign, not to exceed seven days. If the sign display area is permanent but the message displayed is subject to periodic changes, that sign shall not be regarded as a temporary sign.
[Amended 2-7-2014]
SIGN, TEMPORARY MOBILE
A temporary sign customarily located on a trailer or similar wheeled apparatus, whether self-propelled or pulled by another vehicle, intended for promotional purposes or to convey an advertising message of any kind, which is not permanently affixed to the ground.
SIGN, UNSAFE
Any sign that poses a health, safety or general welfare hazard due to lack of maintenance, structural instability, inadequate attachment to the building or structure, faulty electrical wiring, has the potential to pose or cause a traffic hazard, or other natural or man-made cause.
[Added 2-7-2014]
SIGN, WALL
A sign attached to, painted upon, placed against, or supported by the exterior surface of any building.
[Added 2-7-2014]
SIGN, WARNING
A sign exclusively devoted to warning the public of dangerous conditions and unusual hazards such as dropoffs, high voltage, fire danger, and explosives.
[Added 2-7-2014]
SIGN, WINDOW
Illuminated and nonilluminated signs placed in the windows of a structure, viewed or intended to be viewed from outside the structure. Such signs are considered part of the total sign area for that frontage.
[Amended 2-7-2014]
SITE
A continuous area of land, including a lot or lots or a portion thereof, upon which a project is developed or proposed for development.
[Added 7-20-2017]
SMALL WIND ENERGY SYSTEM
A wind energy conversion system consisting of a wind turbine, a generator, a tower and associated control or conversion electronics, which has a rated capacity of 100 kilowatts or less and will be used primarily for on-site consumption.
[Added 7-20-2017]
SOCIAL FACILITY/CLUB
A structure and/or lot used primarily for clubs of a fraternal, social or nonprofit nature, to provide a meeting place and/or conduct the business of said club. See "membership club."
[Added 7-20-2017]
SPECIAL EXCEPTION
A specific enumerated use of a building or lot which may be permitted under this chapter only upon application to the Board of Adjustment and subject to the approval of the Board in accordance with the conditions pertinent thereto, and only in cases where the words "special exception" in this chapter pertain.
SPORTS BOOK
The business of accepting wagers on any sports event by any system or method of wagering.
[Added 2-27-2020]
SPORTS WAGER
Cash or cash equivalent paid by an individual to participate in sports wagering.
[Added 2-27-2020]
SPORTS WAGERING
Wagering on any sporting events or any portion thereof, or on the individual performance statistics of athletes participating in a sports event, or combination of sports events, by any system or method of wagering, including but not limited to in-person communication and electronic communication through internet websites accessed via a mobile device or computer and mobile device application. The term "sports wagering" shall include, but not be limited to, single game bets, teaser bets, parlays, over-under bets, money line bets, pools, exchange wagering, in-game wagering, in-play bets, proposition bets, and straight bets.
[Added 2-27-2020]
STOCKYARD
Services involving the temporary keeping of livestock for slaughter, market or shipping. Typical uses include stockyards and animal sales in auction yards.
[Added 7-20-2017]
STREET LINE
Right-of-way line of a street as dedicated by subdivision plat or a deed of record. Where the width of the street is not established, the street line shall be considered to be 25 feet from the center line of the street pavement or as designated in the Master Plan.
STREET, PRIVATE
Any vehicular right-of-way which the Town or state has no duty to maintain and that: (1) is a privately owned and maintained roadway; (2) is shown upon a plan approved pursuant to NH RSAs; (3) is shown on a plan duly filed and recorded in the Office of Rockingham County Registry of Deeds; or (4) is approved by any other official action of the Town of Derry. A road contains all the land within the right-of-way. As used herein, "road" has the same meaning as "street."
[Added 6-5-2007]
STREET, PUBLIC
A public right-of-way which the Town or state has the duty to maintain regularly or a public right-of-way shown on a subdivision plat approved by the Planning Board, recorded with the County Registry of Deeds, constructed to Town specifications, and duly accepted by the municipality, which provides the principal means of access to abutting property. As used herein, "road" has the same meaning as "street."
[Amended 6-5-2007]
STRUCTURE
Anything constructed or erected having a fixed location on the ground, or attached to something having a fixed location on the ground. Structures include, but are not limited to, buildings, kennels, swimming pools, billboards, and poster panels. It shall not include minor installations such as fences less than 3 1/2 feet high, agricultural and safety fences, mail boxes, and flagpoles.
[Amended 5-20-2014, effective 6-20-2014]
SUBDIVISION
The division of the lot, tract, or parcel of land for the purpose, whether immediate or future, of sale, rent, lease, condominium conveyance, or building development. It includes resubdivision and, when appropriate to the context, relates to the process of subdividing or to the land or territory subdivided. The division of a parcel of land held in common and subsequently divided into parts among the several owners shall be deemed a subdivision.
TELEVISION BROADCASTING
An establishment containing one or more broadcasting studios for over-the-air, cable or satellite delivery of radio or television programs, or studios for the audio or video recording or filming of musical performances, radio or television programs or motion pictures. This term does not include a transmission tower.
[Added 7-20-2017]
TIER I SPORTS WAGER
A sports wager that is placed before the start of the sports event and is determined solely by the final score or final outcome of that single sports event.
[Added 2-27-2020]
TIER II SPORTS WAGER
In-play sports wager.
[Added 2-27-2020]
TIER III SPORTS WAGER
A sports wager that is neither a Tier I nor a Tier II wager.
[Added 2-27-2020]
TOURIST HOME
Any owner-occupied dwelling (other than a hotel or motel) in which living accommodations, with or without kitchen facilities, are offered to the traveling public for rental to 10 or fewer transient guests, none of whom shall stay for more than fourteen days in any calendar year. This term shall include bed-and-breakfasts but shall not include lodging houses or rooming houses or apartment houses.
[Amended 3-18-2003]
TRANSPORTATION CENTER
A terminal or station where transport vehicles load or unload passengers or goods. This includes bus, shuttle and livery service depots, trolley stations and the like.
[Added 6-16-2015, effective 7-16-2015]
TRAVEL AGENT
A person engaged in selling and arranging transportation, accommodations, tours or trips for travelers.
[Added 6-16-2015, effective 7-16-2015]
TRAVEL TRAILER
A vehicular, portable, non-self-propelled structure built on a chassis, designed to be used as a temporary dwelling for travel, recreational, and vacation uses, having a body width not exceeding eight feet and a body length not exceeding 32 feet.
TRUCK TERMINAL
A facility for transfer of merchandise and the repair, maintenance, and servicing of tractor trucks and trailers used for the transportation of such merchandise.
USE, PERMITTED
Use specifically allowed in a zoning district, excluding illegal uses and nonconforming uses.
UTILITY SUBSTATION
A building and/or other structure, owned and/or operated by a public utility, which is principally used for sheltering, mounting, and/or supporting utility equipment, machinery or the like, including electric relay or generating, telephone switching, sewage pumping stations or the like, but not including the transmission lines for gas, electrical, telephone, etc.
[Added 7-20-2017]
UTILITY, PUBLIC OR PRIVATE
Any agency that, under public franchise or ownership, or under certificate of convenience or necessity, or by grant of authority by a government agency, provides the public with electricity, gas, heat, steam, communication, transportation, water, sewage collection, stormwater collection, or similar service, deemed necessary for the public health, safety and welfare.
[Added 7-20-2017]
VARIANCE
Such departure from the terms of this chapter as the Board of Adjustment, upon appeal in specific cases, is empowered to authorize only under applicable statutes of the State of New Hampshire.[11]
VEHICULAR SERVICE STATION
Any area of land, including the structures thereon, that is used for the supply of gasoline or oil or other fuel for the propulsion of motor vehicles and which may include facilities used for polishing, greasing, washing, spraying, dry cleaning, mechanical repairs, or otherwise cleaning or servicing such motor vehicles. A service station is not a vehicular sales or repair facility as defined herein.
WAREHOUSE
A fully enclosed building used for bulk storage of goods and merchandise, including bulk sales outlets.
[Amended 6-1-2018]
WETLANDS
Areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal conditions do support, a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soils conditions. They include, but are not limited to, swamps, bogs, marshes, ponds, and lakes, as well as soils that are defined as poorly or very poorly drained.
[Added 7-20-2017]
WHOLESALE BUSINESS
A use which constitutes the sale of goods in quantity, usually for resale.
[Added 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES
Any towers, poles, antennas or other structures intended for use in connection with transmission or receipt of radio or television signals, or any other electromagnetic spectrum-based transmission/receptions, including cell towers. This definition shall not include towers or antennas that are less than 25 feet in height from the ground and which are accessory to a principal use, nor shall this definition include antennas used exclusively in the amateur radio services or antennas otherwise permitted by federal or state preemption.
[Amended 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012]
WOOD/METAL CRAFT
See "artist."
[Added 7-20-2017]
WORKFORCE HOUSING
Pursuant to NH RSA 674:58, housing which is intended for sale and which is affordable to a household with an income of no more than 100% of the median income for a four-person household for the metropolitan area or county in which the housing is located, as published annually by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. "Workforce housing" also means rental housing which is affordable to a household with an income of no more than 60% of the median income for a three-person household for the metropolitan area or county in which the housing is located, as published annually by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development. Housing developments that exclude minor children from more than 20% of the units, or in which more than 50% of the dwelling units have fewer than two bedrooms, shall not constitute workforce housing for the purposes of this definition.
[Added 7-20-2017]
YARD
That portion of a lot not occupied by a building or structure. Porches, whether enclosed or unenclosed, shall be considered as part of the main building and shall not project into a required yard.
YARD, FRONT/SETBACK
Yard between the front lot line and the front of a building extended to the side lot lines of the lot. The depth of the front yard shall be measured from the street line to the front line of the building.
YARD, REAR
Yard between the rear lot line and the rear line of a principal or accessory building extended to the side lot lines of the lot. The depth of the rear yard shall be measured from the rear lot line to the rear line of the building.
YARD SALE
The sale of excess items by a family from its residence to customers coming to the residence to view and purchase the items. It shall include garage, lawn, attic, tag and porch sales and similar expressions intending to convey such type of sales.
YARD, SIDE
Yard between the principal building or accessory building and a side lot line and extending through from the front yard to the rear yard.
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 170, Land Development Control Regulations.
[2]
Editor's Note: The former definition of "commercial recreation building," which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 7-7-2015, effective 8-6-2015.
[3]
Editor's Note: The former definition of "contractor's yard" was repealed 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012.
[4]
Editor's Note: The former definition of "drive-in restaurant or refreshment stand," which immediately followed, was repealed 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012.
[5]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 170, Land Development Control Regulations.
[6]
Editor's Note: The former definition of "nuisance," added 5-20-2014, which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 5-7-2020. See now the definitions of "private nuisance" and "public nuisance."
[7]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 170, Land Development Control Regulations.
[8]
Editor's Note: This ordinance also repealed the former definitions of "restaurant, full-service," added 6-15-2004, and "retail store," both of which immediately followed.
[9]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 170, Land Development Control Regulations.
[10]
Editor's Note: The former definition of "self-storage unit," added 7-20-2017, and which immediately followed this definition, was repealed 6-1-2018. See now the definition of " self-storage facilities."
[11]
Editor's Note: The former definition of "vehicular sales or repair facility," which immediately followed, was repealed 5-14-2012, effective 6-14-2012.