ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT
A separate dwelling unit that is attached to or located on
the same lot as a principal residential dwelling used for the living,
sleeping, cooking, and bathroom facilities of individuals for a period
of time longer than 6 months.
[Amended 12-4-2023 by L.L. No. 13-2023]
ACCESSORY STRUCTURE
A subordinate structure located on the same lot with the
principal structure, occupied by or devoted to an accessory use. Where
an accessory structure is attached to the principal structure in a
substantial manner, as by a roof, such accessory structure shall be
considered part of the principal structure.
ACCESSORY USE
A use which is incidental and subordinate to the principal
use of the property, located on the same lot therewith.
ACTIVITY CENTER
A development area established in the Comprehensive Plan
that provides a focus for surrounding neighborhoods and promotes land
use objectives such as compact, pedestrian-friendly development. Such
centers are higher in density and incorporate a wider range of uses
than the lower density, predominantly residential areas surrounding
them.
ADULT CARE FACILITY
A facility which provides temporary or long-term residential care and services to adults who, though not requiring continual medical or nursing care, are by reason of physical or other limitations associated with age, physical or mental disabilities or other factors, unable to or substantially unable to live independently. An adult care facility may provide services to nonresidents in accordance with the provisions of NY Social Services Law, Chapter
55.
ANIMALS, DOMESTIC
Animals that are normally considered household pets, including
but not limited to, dogs, cats, birds or fish.
ARCADE
A continuous passageway covered by permanent roofing that
is parallel to and open to a street or public space. An arcade is
open and unobstructed to a minimum height of 12 feet and is accessible
to the public at all times. This term shall not include off-street
parking or loading areas, driveways or open pedestrian walkways.
AWNING
A roof-like cover with a rigid frame that cannot be retracted,
folded or collapsed that is designed for protection from weather or
as decorative embellishment, and which projects from a wall over a
window, walkway or door.
BASEMENT
That portion of a building that is partly or completely underground.
For application to floodplain see § 7-7-4.
BED AND BREAKFAST
An overnight accommodation in a single-family detached dwelling
that provides temporary lodging for the general public and that may
provide meal service.
BIO-SWALE OR RAIN GARDEN
Planted depressions designed to divert surface water runoff
from impervious surfaces through vegetation, soil and riprap/stone
to remove silt and pollutants before runoff is discharged into local
storm drains or surface waterways/water bodies.
[Added 5-17-2010 by L.L. No. 8-2010]
BUILDABLE AREA
That portion of the lot remaining after required yards have
been provided.
BUILDING
Any improvement having a roof supported by columns or walls
for the housing or enclosure of persons, a business, animals or chattels;
mobile home.
BUILDING AREA
The maximum horizontal projected area measured from the exterior
of the walls of the building.
BUILDING COVERAGE
The percentage of the lot covered by both the main (principal)
and accessory structures. This term does not include other impervious
surfaces such as driveways.
BUILDING HEIGHT
The vertical distance from the finished grade line at the
foundation to the highest point of the roof.
BUILDING INTEGRATED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM
A combination of photovoltaic and or solar-thermal building
components integrated into any building envelope system such as vertical
facades including glass and other facade material, semitransparent
skylight systems, solar roofing tiles, and shading over windows.
[Added 12-14-2020 by L.L.
No. 18-2020]
BUILDING SETBACK LINE (OR FRONT SETBACK)
A line equidistant from the street right-of-way line, or
edge of pavement for a private road, between which line and the street
right-of-way no building may be built.
BUSINESS SERVICE ESTABLISHMENT
An establishment providing custodial and maintenance services
to other businesses. Typical uses include sign companies, window cleaning
services, janitorial services and other dwelling and building services.
BULK STORAGE
The storage of chemicals, petroleum products or hazardous
materials in above ground or below ground storage containers designed
for distribution or mass consumption.
CABARET OR THEATER, SEXUALLY ORIENTED
A building or portion of a building which provides or allows
the provision of sexually oriented entertainment to its customers
or which holds itself out to the public as an establishment where
sexually oriented entertainment is available. Signs, advertisements
or an establishment name including verbal or pictorial allusions to
sexual stimulation or gratification or by references to "adult entertainment,"
"strippers," "showgirls," "exotic dancers," "gentleman's club," "XXX"
or similar terms, shall be considered evidence that an establishment
holds itself out to the public as an establishment where sexually
oriented entertainment is available.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
CALL CENTER
A facility for the handling of customer service, technical
service or telemarketing activities through electronic communications
that allows less than 100 square feet per employee.
CLEAR SIGHT TRIANGLE
The triangle formed on corner lots between points on the
front, side or rear lot lines at a distance from the intersection
within which no visual obstruction may be constructed.
CLUB (PRIVATE)
A non-for-profit organization, not including a fraternity
or sorority house, whose premises are restricted to its members and
their guests.
COMMERCIAL RECREATION ACTIVITIES, OUTDOOR
Commercial uses, varying in size, providing daily or regularly
scheduled recreation-oriented activities. Such activities may take
place wholly outdoors or within a number of outdoor structures. Typical
uses include facilities for tennis, racquetball, handball, basketball,
baseball, football, swimming, ice-skating, golf and soccer.
COMPLETED APPLICATION
An application that contains all information and/or data
necessary to enable an informed decision to be made with respect to
an application.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
Materials, written and graphic, including maps, charts, studies,
resolutions, reports and other descriptive material that identify
the goals, objectives, principles, guidelines, policies, standards,
devices and instruments for the immediate and long-range protection,
enhancement, growth and development which have been adopted and may
be amended by the Amherst Town Board in accordance with NYS Town Law
§ 272-a.
[Amended 2-4-2008 by L.L. No. 1-2008]
CONFERENCE CENTER
A facility used for service organizations, business and professional
conferences and seminars limited to accommodations for conference
attendees. The accommodations can include sleeping, eating and recreation.
A conference center is not designed to be only utilized by the general
public for overnight purposes.
CONTRACTING OR CONSTRUCTION SERVICE
An establishment or business providing services, including
but not limited to, carpentry, electrical, masonry, plumbing, heating,
ventilation, air conditioning, painting, ornamental iron work, roofing
and sheet metal; packing and crafting and monumental works.
CONVENIENCE RETAIL/SERVICE
A facility involved in the sale of convenience goods or personal
services that support the daily needs of household consumers.
[Added 12-14-2020 by L.L.
No. 20-2020]
COURT, INNER
An unroofed, open space enclosed by four walls.
COURT, OUTER
An unroofed, open space enclosed by three walls and with
one side open to a yard.
DAY-CARE CENTER
A place for the care of three or more persons for less than
24 hours a day, away from their homes.
DBH
The outside bark diameter at breast height. Breast height
is defined as 4.5 feet (1.37 m) above the ground on the uphill side
of the tree.
DECK
A raised platform adjacent to the principal structure generally
constructed of wood or wood composite and including a foundation,
stairs and railing.
[Added 11-30-2020 by L.L.
No. 17-2020]
DEVELOPMENT AREA
An area of land permitted by this Ordinance to be developed
by a single owner or group of owners, acting jointly, which may consist
of a parcel or assembled parcels planned and developed as an entity.
DISPLAY PUBLICLY
The act of exposing, placing, posting, exhibiting, or in
any fashion displaying in any location, whether public or private,
an item in such a manner that it may be readily seen and its content
or character distinguished by 1) a person who is between five feet
and six feet in height, with eyesight adequate to obtain a New York
vehicle operator's license of any type; 2) standing on a street, highway,
or public sidewalk, or on the property of others, or from the parking
lot or any other portion of the premises that is open to members of
the public other than adults who have been admitted to the business
in accordance with management policies.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
DOG DAY CARE FACILITY
A commercial facility for the supervised care of dogs for
periods of less than 24 hours a day, not to include facilities that
provide boarding, breeding or selling of dogs, or facilities whose
primary source of revenue is licensed veterinarian services.
[Added 10-17-2011 by L.L. No. 25-2011]
DORMITORY
A structure specially designed for a long-term stay by students
of a college, university, or nonprofit organization for the purpose
of dividing rooms for sleeping purposes. Common kitchens and some
common gathering rooms for special purposes may also be provided.
[Added 1-16-2007 by L.L. No. 2-2007]
DWELLING
A building or portion of a building designed or occupied
exclusively for residential and permitted accessory uses. The term
dwelling shall not be deemed to include a hotel, motel, bed &
breakfast, hospital, nursing home, dormitory, or fraternity or sorority
house.
[Amended 9-6-2016 by L.L.
No. 10-2016]
DWELLING, MULTIFAMILY
A building or portion of a building containing three or more
dwelling units and designed or used for occupancy by three or more
families living independently of each other.
DWELLING UNIT
A room or group of rooms within a building forming a single
habitable unit which may be occupied by a single family for living,
sleeping, cooking and eating purposes. A dwelling unit may be attached
or detached.
ENCOUNTER CENTER, SEXUALLY ORIENTED
A business or enterprise that, as one of its principal purposes,
offers: physical contact between two or more persons when one or more
of the persons is in a state of nudity or semi-nudity.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
ENTERTAINER, SEXUALLY ORIENTED
Any person paid as an employee, contractor, subcontractor,
or agent of the operator of a cabaret who frequently appears in a
state of semi-nudity at any establishment regulated by this chapter.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
ENTERTAINMENT, SEXUALLY ORIENTED
Any of the following activities, when performed by a sexually
oriented entertainer at a sexually oriented business: dancing, singing,
talking, modeling (including lingerie or photographic), gymnastics,
acting, other forms of performing, or individual conversations with
customers for which some type of remuneration is received.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
FACADE FRONTAGE
The percentage of the width of a building facade which faces
a public street relative to the lot width.
[Added 5-17-2010 by L.L. No. 8-2010]
FACADE, STREET
A facade facing a public street, parking area or pedestrian
walkway.
FAMILY
Any number of individuals living together as a single housekeeping
unit; 1) who are related by blood, marriage or adoption; or 2) although
not related by blood, marriage or adoption, whose living arrangements
are the functional equivalent of a traditional family.
FARM
A single parcel of land two acres or more in size on which
an owner or tenant carries on agricultural pursuits, including but
not limited to, the raising of crops, dairying pursuits or the raising
of livestock or poultry or the keeping of bees.
[Amended 10-17-2022 by L.L. No. 19-2022]
FLOOR AREA
The total horizontal area of a building as outlined by its
exterior main walls, not including any space the habitation of which
is prohibited by any law, built-in or attached garages, porches or
terraces.
FLOOR AREA, GROSS PUBLIC
The total area of the building accessible to the public,
including showrooms, motion picture theaters, motion picture arcades,
service areas, behind-counter areas, storage areas visible from such
other areas, restrooms (whether or not labeled "public"), areas used
for cabaret or similar shows (including stage areas), plus aisles,
hallways, and entryways serving such areas.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008; amended 11-30-2020 by L.L. No. 17-2020]
FOOTCANDLE
The amount of light that is produced by a candle at the distance
of one foot. A footcandle is also the equivalent of one lumen per
square foot.
FRATERNITY OR SORORITY HOUSE
A place of residence other than a hotel, dormitory, or rooming
house that is operated by a nationally chartered membership organization
or a local chartered organization; is used, occupied, and maintained
for persons enrolled in a college, university, or other educational
institution; which is recognized and subject to controls by such institution;
and is located entirely on the campus of that institution.
[Amended 9-6-2016 by L.L.
No. 10-2016]
FREESTANDING SIGN
A sign supported by structures or supports that is placed
on, or anchored in, the ground and that is independent from any building
or other structure and includes ground signs, message center signs,
pole signs and subdivision identification signs.
GARAGE, PRIVATE
A building, accessory to dwellings, used exclusively for
the parking or temporary storage of motor vehicles, boats and trailers.
GARAGE, STORAGE
A main or accessory enclosed building with doors, other than
a private garage, used for parking or temporary storage of motor vehicles,
boats and trailers.
GARAGE, REPAIR
A main or accessory building used for purposes of repairing
motor vehicles, boats and trailers; a service garage if accessory
to an automobile salesroom.
GROUP DEVELOPMENT
Two or more structures containing attached residential units
or nonresidential structures, or a combination thereof. Structures
need not be on individual lots.
GROUND-FLOOR AREA
The maximum horizontal area of a building at the ground level,
excluding open porches, terraces and steps and attached or built-in
garage areas.
GROUND-MOUNTED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM
A Solar Energy System that is anchored to the ground and
attached to a pole or other mounting system, detached from any other
structure for the primary purpose of producing electricity or thermal
energy for onsite consumption.
[Added 12-14-2020 by L.L.
No. 18-2020]
HOME OCCUPATION
An occupation carried on in a dwelling unit by the resident
thereof; provided that the use is limited in extent and incidental
and secondary to the use of the dwelling unit for residential purposes
and does not change the character thereof.
HOSPICE
A structure other than a hospital or nursing home in which
a minimum of two terminally ill persons are regularly lodged and furnished
with meals and nursing care and which has been granted a certificate
of approval to operate as a hospice pursuant to the Public Health
Law or any successor regulating state law.
IMPERVIOUS COVERAGE
The percentage of the area of a lot that is covered by surfaces
which do not readily absorb rainwater, including, but not limited
to: buildings, sidewalks, plazas and paved parking areas
[Added 5-17-2010 by L.L. No. 8-2010]
INDOOR RECREATION FACILITY
An indoor facility designed for sports and recreation activities
including, but not limited to, golf, basketball, baseball, football,
soccer, ice skating, tennis or swimming.
[Added 2-24-2014 by L.L. No. 5-2014]
INTERIOR LANDSCAPED AREA
Landscaped area located entirely within the parking area
of a site including landscaped islands, divider medians and yard area
at least five feet wide in excess of the minimum required yard for
Parking Areas 7,500 square feet or less (approximately 15 spaces).
INTERMEDIATE CARE FACILITY
A facility approved by the NYS Department of Health to provide
health-related care and services to persons who because of their physical
or mental condition require institutional care, in addition to board
and lodging, but who do not have such an illness, disease, injury,
or other condition as to require the institutional care and services
provided only by a hospital or nursing home, providing such facility
meets standards of safety and sanitation in accordance with state
and federal requirements in addition to those applicable to nursing
homes under state law.
KENNEL
Any premises on which four or more dogs more than four months
old are kept.
LINGERIE MODELING STUDIO
An establishment or business which provides the services
of live models modeling lingerie, bathing suits, or similar wear to
individuals, couples or small groups in one or more rooms, where the
room(s) used for modeling is an area smaller than 1,000 square feet
each.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
LIVESTOCK
Any animals raised for food or product. In addition, they
include the following, regardless of purpose:
1.
All animals with hooves, either single or split;
2.
All members of the ovine (sheep), bovine (cows and cattle),
caprine (goats), equine (horses and ponies), and swine (pigs and hogs)
families;
3.
Emus, rheas, and ostriches; and
4.
All poultry (chickens, roosters, turkeys, ducks, geese and the
like).
LOT
A parcel of land for a structure, use and the accessory structures
or uses customarily incident to it, including such open spaces as
are required by this Ordinance and such open spaces as are arranged
and designed to be used in connection with such structure. When part
of an existing conforming lot is conveyed by or to the Town of Amherst
Industrial Development Agency for a project involving the enlargement
of an existing structure or construction of an additional structure
which enlargement or additional structure is to be owned by the agency
or occupied by its lessee of the existing structures, design regulations
for the district shall be deemed not violated if the enlarged structure
complies with those regulations as applied to the entire lot.
LOT AREA
The horizontal land area within lot lines.
LOT OF RECORD
Land designated as a separate parcel on a plat map or deed
filed or recorded in the office of the Clerk of Erie County, New York.
See also "Nonconforming Use, Structure or Lot of Record."
[Amended 5-4-2009 by L.L. No. 5-2009]
LOT TYPES
1.
CORNER LOT — A parcel of land having lot
lines at the junction of two or more streets or having lot lines on
the same street forming an interior angle of intersection not more
than 135 degrees.
2.
INTERIOR LOT — A lot other than a corner
lot.
3.
THROUGH LOT — An interior lot which has frontage
on more than one street.
LOT WIDTH
The horizontal distance of a lot measured along the building
line at right angles to the mean lot depth line.
[Amended 2-4-2008 by L.L. No. 1-2008]
MANUFACTURED HOME
A structure transportable in one or more sections that, in
the traveling mode, is a minimum of eight feet in width or a minimum
of 40 feet in length or, when erected on site, is a minimum of 320
square feet in floor area. A manufactured home was built on or after
June 15, 1976 on a permanent chassis and designed to be used as a
dwelling with or without a permanent foundation when connected to
the required utilities. Plumbing, heating, air conditioning and electrical
systems are contained in the home. The term "manufactured home" shall
also include any structure that meets all the requirements of this
definition except the size requirements and with respect to which
the manufacturer voluntarily files a certification required by the
Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) and complies
with the standards established under the National Manufactured Housing
and Safety Act of 1974, as amended. The term "manufactured home" shall
not include any self-propelled recreational vehicle. A manufactured
home shall bear a signifying conformance to the design and construction
requirements of HUD, Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards,
24 CFR Part 3280.
MASSAGE
Touching, stroking, kneading, stretching, friction, percussion,
and vibration, and includes holding, positioning, causing movement
of the soft tissues and applying manual touch and pressure to the
body (excluding an osseous tissue manipulation or adjustment).
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
MASSAGE PARLOR
Any business offering massages that is operated by a person
who is not a state licensed "massage therapist" or that provides massages
by persons who are not state licensed massage therapists by the State
Board of Massage Therapy, Office of the Professions, New York State
Education Department, under Title VIII, Education Law, Article 155
Massage Therapy.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
MEDIA
Anything printed or written, or any picture, drawing, photograph,
motion picture, film, videotape or videotape production, or pictorial
representation, or any electrical or electronic reproduction of anything
which is or may be used as a means of communication. Media includes
but shall not necessarily be limited to books, newspapers, magazines,
movies, videos, sound recordings, CD-ROMS, other magnetic media, and
undeveloped pictures.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
MEDIA, SEXUALLY EXPLICIT
Magazines, books, videotapes, movies, slides, CD-ROMs or
other devices used to record computer images, or other media which
are distinguished or characterized by their emphasis on matter depicting,
describing or relating to "sexual conduct" or "specified anatomical
areas" (separately defined).
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
MEDIA STORE, SEXUALLY ORIENTED
A retail sales and services establishment that rents and/or
sells media, and that meets any of the following three tests:
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
|
(1)
|
More than thirty percent (30%) of the gross public floor area
is devoted to sexually oriented media; or
|
|
(2)
|
More than thirty percent (30%) of the stock in trade consists
of sexually oriented media; or
|
|
(3)
|
It is advertised, marketed, or holds itself out in any form
as "XXX," "adult," "sex" or otherwise as a sexually-oriented business.
|
MEDIA STORE WITH SOME SEXUALLY ORIENTED MEDIA
A retail sales and services establishment that rents and/or
sells media, and that meets either of the following two tests:
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
|
(1)
|
More than ten percent (10%) but no more than thirty percent
(30%) of the gross public floor area is devoted to sexually oriented
media; or
|
|
(2)
|
More than ten percent (10%) but no more than thirty percent
(30%) of the stock in trade consists of sexually oriented media.
|
MIXED USE
A building or group of buildings designed to accommodate
a combination of interrelated land uses, which includes a mix of two
or more of the following uses: retail, services, office, residential
or civic/public uses.
[Added 5-17-2010 by L.L. No. 8-2010]
MOBILE HOME
A movable or portable dwelling unit that was built prior
to June 15, 1976 (with or without a label certifying compliance with
NFPA, ANSI or a specific state standard) and designed and constructed
to be towed on its own chassis, comprised of frame and wheels, connected
to utilities, and designed and constructed without a permanent foundation
for year-round living, excluding travel trailers.
MODELING STUDIO, SEXUALLY ORIENTED
An establishment or business that provides the services of
live models modeling lingerie, bathing suits, or similar wear to individuals,
couples, or small groups in a space smaller than 600 feet.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
MOTION PICTURE OR VIDEO ARCADE, SEXUALLY ORIENTED
Any business that provides booths, cubicles, stalls or compartments
which is smaller than 150 square feet in floor area, which is designed,
constructed or used to hold or seat customers, and which is used for
presenting sexually oriented motion pictures or viewing publications
by any photographic, electronic, magnetic, digital or other means
or medium (including, but not limited to, film, video or magnetic
tape, laser disc, CD-ROM, books, magazines or periodicals) for observation
by customers therein.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
MOTION PICTURE THEATER, SEXUALLY ORIENTED
A cinema or motion picture theater which shows hard-core
sexually oriented features on more than half the days that it is open,
or which is marketed as or offers features described as "adult," "XXX,"
or sexually oriented
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
MULTIPLE DEVELOPMENT
Four or more offices, commercial or industrial establishments
or enterprises or combinations of such uses thereof, that are located
in a single building; or one or more such offices, establishments
or enterprises or combinations of such uses located thereof in two
or more buildings developed or to be developed on one parcel.
[Amended 12-12-2022 by L.L. No. 22-2022]
NEW MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR SUBDIVISION
Manufactured home park or subdivision for which the construction
of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes
are to be affixed, including, at a minimum, the installation of utilities,
the construction of streets and either final site grading or the pouring
of concrete pads, is completed on or after the effective date of floodplain
management regulations adopted by a community.
NONCONFORMING USE, STRUCTURE OR LOT OF RECORD
Lots, structures, uses of land and characteristics of use
that were lawful before this Ordinance or amendments thereto were
passed, but that would be prohibited, regulated or restricted under
terms of this Ordinance or future amendments. The definition of nonconforming
expressly does not include any illegally established use or structure.
NUDITY OR STATE OF NUDITY
The showing of the human male or female genitals, pubic area,
vulva, anus, anal cleft or cleavage with less than a fully opaque
covering, the showing of the female breast with less than a fully
opaque covering of any part of the areola or nipple, or the showing
of the covered male genitals in a discernibly turgid state. See also
"Semi-nude."
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
NUISANCE LIGHTING
Any outdoor lighting that creates a potential hazard to the
public or light trespass or glare to neighboring properties, thereby
causing loss of enjoyment, comfort, or repose.
[Added 10-17-2022 by L.L.
No. 19-2022]
NURSING HOME
A building used for the accommodation and care of persons
with, or recuperating from, illness or incapacity, where nursing services
are provided.
OCCUPIABLE SPACE
An enclosed space within a building intended for human activities,
including, but not limited to living, working, eating or sleeping,
which meet the required building codes for such spaces.
[Added 5-17-2010 by L.L. No. 8-2010]
OFFICE
The use of a building or a portion of a building for the
provision of executive, consulting, professional, management, or administrative
services. Typical uses include, but are not limited to, administrative
offices and services including advertising, accounting, architecture,
archival services, design, engineering, financing, government, human
health care, insurance, investment, law, medical laboratory testing
service, personnel, property management, real estate, secretarial
services, telephone answering, travel, and business offices of public
utilities, organizations and associations, or other use classifications
when the service rendered is that customarily associated with office
services.
OPEN PORCH
An elevated structure with steps, frost-protected foundation,
raised deck or slab, roof, and railing, but no side walls or screening
and which is attached to the principal structure.
[Added 11-30-2020 by L.L.
No. 17-2020]
OPEN SPACE
An area unobstructed by buildings from the ground upward,
except for walks, paths, landscaping or other site features in public,
common or other private ownership. Yards of individual lots occupied
by dwellings shall not constitute open space.
OPEN SPACE, COMMON
A parcel or parcels of land or an area of water or a combination
of land and water within the site, privately owned and designed and
intended for the use and enjoyment of two or more households residing
in the site, or in specified portions of the site or other users if
permitted by the owners of the common open space. Common open space
may contain such structures and improvements as are necessary and
appropriate for the benefit and enjoyment of persons served by such
common open space.
OPEN USE
A use that creates or preserves areas intended primarily
for the raising of animals and crops, conservation, and the secondary
industries associated with agricultural production.
OUTDOOR RECREATION (COMMON)
Public uses, varying in size, providing daily or regularly
scheduled recreation-oriented activities. Such activities may take
place wholly outdoors or within a number of outdoor structures. Typical
uses include facilities for tennis, racquetball, handball, basketball,
baseball, football, swimming, ice-skating, golf and soccer.
OUTDOOR RECREATION FACILITY
An outdoor facility designed for sports and recreation activities
including, but not limited to, golf, basketball, baseball, football,
soccer, ice skating, tennis or swimming.
[Added 2-24-2014 by L.L. No. 5-2014]
OUTPARCEL
A parcel of land, generally located on the perimeter of a
larger parcel of commercial land that is subordinate to the larger
parcel for access, parking and drainage purposes.
OWNER
As used in this Ordinance, shall include, in addition to
its usual meaning, tenant, lessee, occupant or other user.
OVERLAY DISTRICT
A district classification superimposed in addition to another
(basic) district classification, further regulating or limiting structures
and uses otherwise permitted and regulated pursuant to the basic district
classification.
PARK OFFICE
A small office designed to serve the needs of residents of
a manufactured home park.
PARKING AREA
An area used primarily for parking, circulation and storage
of vehicles including but not limited to parking lots and driveways.
PARKING ROOM
A parking area that is visually and functionally segmented
into several smaller parking areas.
PATIO
A concrete, masonry, flagstone or similar stone material
or wood area built above or at grade that may be enclosed with a fence,
railing or wall.
[Added 11-30-2020 by L.L.
No. 17-2020]
PATIO HOME
A single-family detached dwelling unit placed on a small
lot with a rear yard that may be enclosed by a wall.
PLACES OF ASSEMBLY
Any space devoted to gathering together persons for amusement,
athletic, civic, dining, educational, entertainment, patriotic, political,
recreational, religious, social or similar purposes.
PLANT NURSERY
An establishment for the growth, display or sale of trees,
shrubs, flowering and nonflowering plants and materials used in indoor
or outdoor planting, conducted within or without an enclosed building.
PRIMARY LIVE ENTERTAINMENT
Entertainment which characterizes the establishment, as determined
(if necessary) from a pattern of advertising as well as actual performances.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
PRIME FARMLAND
Land that is best suited to producing food, feed, forage,
fiber and oilseed crops. It has the soil quality, growing season,
and moisture supply needed to economically produce a sustained high
yield of crop when it is treated and managed according to acceptable
farming methods. Prime Farmland may now be in crops, pasture, woodland,
or other land, but not in urban and built-up land or water areas.
It must be used for producing food or fiber or be available for this
use. (As defined by the Soil Survey of Erie County, New York, 1986)
[Added 12-14-2020 by L.L.
No. 18-2020]
PROTECTED DISTRICT
Those districts listed in 5A-5-1. Applicability as protected
by requiring a transition on a Mixed Use District property.
[Added 9-3-2019]
PUBLIC WORKS CONSTRUCTION YARD
An area used on a temporary basis for the storage, assembly
or processing of materials, equipment, and supplies used in the construction
of a United States, New York State, Erie County or Town of Amherst
public works project. The public works construction yard may include
offices associated with the public works project. Typical projects
include but are not limited to: construction, reconstruction, or repair
of public infrastructure such as roadways, storm sewers, sanitary
sewers, and waterlines.
[Added 12-7-2009 by L.L. No. 19-2009]
QUALIFIED SOLAR INSTALLER
A person who has skills and knowledge related to the construction
and operation of solar electrical equipment and installations and
has received safety training on the hazards involved. Persons who
are on the list of eligible photovoltaic installers maintained by
the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA),
or who are certified as a solar installer by the North American Board
of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP), shall be deemed to be
qualified solar installers for the purposes of this definition.
[Added 12-14-2020 by L.L.
No. 18-2020]
RELIGIOUS INSTITUTION
A place of assembly used primarily as a church, synagogue,
temple, mosque or other place of religious worship.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT FACILITY
A business that engages in research or development of innovative
ideas in technology-intensive fields. Typical uses include: experimental,
research and testing facilities, including but not limited to, the
construction or operation of: small scale experimental and pilot plant
operations; laboratories; production operations if ancillary to, or
resulting from, a permitted experimental, research or testing operation;
communication, navigation control, guidance systems, transmission
and reception equipment; data processing equipment and systems; audio
components and radio and television equipment; scientific and medical
instruments; assembly testing and calibration of components, devices,
systems and equipment, such as but not limited to, electronic, scientific,
medical, optical, biochemical, chemical, metallurgical and pharmaceutical
goods.
RESIDENTIAL CARE CENTER FOR ADULTS
A facility that provides long-term residential care and support
services to mentally ill adults, provides case management and medication
management services and assists residents in securing clinical vocational
and social services necessary to enable the resident to continue to
live in the community.
RIGHT-OF-WAY
The right established by usage or grant to pass along a specific
route through public or private grounds or property by pedestrians,
vehicles or utilities belonging to another.
[Added 9-3-2019]
ROOF-MOUNTED SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM
A solar panel system located on the roof of any legally permitted
building or structure for the purpose of producing electricity or
thermal energy for onsite or offsite consumption.
[Added 12-14-2020 by L.L.
No. 18-2020]
SADOMASOCHISTIC PRACTICES
Flagellation or torture by or upon a person clothed or naked,
or the condition of being fettered, bound, or otherwise physically
restrained on the part of one so clothed or naked.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
SCREENING
A method of reducing the visual impact of one abutting use
or structure from another by landscaping, walls, berms, or other appropriate
means.
SEMI-NUDE OR IN A SEMI-NUDE CONDITION
The showing of the female breast below a horizontal line
across the top of the areola at its highest point. This definition
shall include the entire lower portion of the human female breast,
but shall not include any portion of the cleavage of the human female
breast, exhibited by a dress, blouse, skirt, leotard, bathing suit,
or other apparel, provided the areola is not exposed in whole or in
part.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
SENIOR CITIZEN HOUSING
A building for senior citizens, primarily for persons 62
years old or more, who are in good physical condition and do not require
physical assistance.
SERVICE STATION
An establishment engaged in the sale of motor vehicle fuel.
In addition, such uses may engage in the sale of beverages, packaged
foods, tobacco and similar convenience goods. Provision of road maps
and other informational material to customers; provision of restroom
facilities.
Oil, grease, batteries, tires and motor vehicle accessories
may be supplied and dispensed at retail and the following services
may be rendered and sales made:
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Servicing of automobiles, noncommercial trucks, motorcycles,
recreational vehicles, or boats spark plugs, batteries and distributors
and distributor parts; Tire servicing and repair, but not recapping
or regrooving; Replacement of mufflers and tail pipes, water hose,
fan belts, brake fluid, light bulbs, fuses, floor mats, seat covers,
windshield wipers and wiper blades, grease retainers, wheel bearings,
mirrors, and the like; Radiator cleaning and flushing; Washing and
polishing, and the sale of automotive washing and polishing materials;
Greasing and lubrication; Providing and repairing of pumps and lines;
Minor servicing and repair of carburetors; Wiring repairs; Adjusting
and repairing brakes; Minor motor adjustments; Vehicle inspection.
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Uses permissible at a service station do not include rental
of motor vehicles, major mechanical and body work, straightening of
body parts, painting, welding or storage of automobiles not in operating
condition. A service station is not a repair garage nor a body shop.
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SEX SHOP
A retail sales and services establishment that meets any
of the following tests:
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
|
(1)
|
It offers for sale items from any two of the following categories:
sexually oriented media; lingerie; leather goods marketed or presented
in a context to suggest their use for sadomasochistic practices, sexually
oriented novelties; and the combination of such items make up more
than ten percent of its stock in trade or occupies more than 10 percent
of its floor area; or,
|
|
(2)
|
More than five percent of its stock in trade consists of sexually-oriented
toys or novelties; or,
|
|
(3)
|
More than five percent of its gross public floor area is devoted
to the display of sexually oriented toys or novelties.
|
SEXUAL CONTACT
[Amended 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
1.
Acts of human masturbation, sexual intercourse, sodomy or bestiality,
or
2.
Fondling or other erotic touching of human genitals, pubic region,
buttock or female breast of another person.
SEXUALLY ORIENTED BUSINESS
An inclusive term used to describe collectively: sexually
oriented cabaret; sexually oriented motion picture theater; motion
picture arcade; retail sales and services falling into the category
of sex shop or sexually oriented media shop. This collective term
does not describe a specific land use and shall not be considered
a single use category for purposes of the zoning code or other applicable
ordinances.
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
SEXUALLY ORIENTED TOYS OR NOVELTIES
Instruments, devices, or paraphernalia either designed as
representations of human genital organs or female breasts or designed
or marketed primarily for use to stimulate human genital organs
[Added 7-7-2008 by L.L. No. 9-2008]
SHARED PARKING STUDY
A document required for shared parking activities that addresses,
at a minimum, the size and type of the proposed development, the composition
of tenants, the anticipated rate of parking turnover and the anticipated
peak parking and traffic loads for all uses that will be sharing off-street
parking spaces.
SHOPPING CENTER
Four or more offices, commercial or industrial establishments
or combinations of such uses, which are located in a single building
or in two or more buildings, developed as part of a single integrated
development exceeding 25,000 square feet of gross floor area.
[Amended 11-30-2020 by L.L. No. 17-2020]
SIGN
A name, identification, description, display or illustration
which is affixed to or painted or represented directly or indirectly
upon a building, structure or piece of land which directs attention
to an object, product, service, place, activity, person, institution,
organization or business and the supporting members thereto.
|
SIGN, ADDRESS. See § 7-8-3.
|
|
SIGN, AWNING. See § 7-8-4.
|
|
SIGN, CONSTRUCTION. See § 7-8-3.
|
|
SIGN, DIRECTORY. See § 7-8-4.
|
|
SIGN, INCIDENTAL. See § 7-8-3.
|
|
SIGN, FASCIA. See § 7-8-4.
|
|
SIGN, FUEL PUMP. See § 7-8-3.
|
|
SIGN, GROUND. See § 7-8-4.
|
|
SIGN, HANGING. See § 7-8-4.
|
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SIGN, HOME OCCUPATION. See § 7-8-3.
|
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SIGN, MARQUEE. See § 7-8-4.
|
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SIGN, MESSAGE CENTER. See § 7-8-4.
|
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SIGN, POLE. See § 7-8-4.
|
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SIGN, PROJECTING. See § 7-8-4.
|
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SIGN, REAL ESTATE. See § 7-8-3.
|
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SIGN, SUBDIVISION IDENTIFICATION. See § 7-8-4.
|
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SIGN, WALL. See § 7-8-4.
|
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SIGN, WINDOW. See § 7-8-3.
|
SMALL WIND ENERGY SYSTEM
A wind energy conversion system consisting of a wind turbine,
a tower, base and associated control or conversion electronics, which
has a rated capacity of not more than 100 kilowatts and which is intended
to primarily reduce the on-site consumption of utility power.
[Added 8-17-2009 by L.L. No. 12-2009]
SOLAR COMPOUND
The total land area occupied by all components needed for
an active solar energy system, including solar panels, necessary equipment,
access roads, etc., and entirely enclosed by a fence.
[Added 12-14-2020 by L.L.
No. 18-2020]
SOLAR COLLECTOR
A solar photovoltaic cell, panel, or array, or solar hot
air or water collector device, which relies upon solar radiation as
an energy source for the generation of electricity or transfer of
stored heat.
[Added 12-14-2020 by L.L.
No. 18-2020]
SOLAR ENERGY EQUIPMENT
Electrical or thermal energy storage devices, material, hardware,
inverters, or other electrical/thermal equipment and conduit of photovoltaic
and solar thermal devices associated with the production of electrical
or thermal energy.
[Added 12-14-2020 by L.L.
No. 18-2020]
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM
An electrical or thermal generating system composed of a
combination of both Solar Panels and Solar Energy Equipment.
[Added 12-14-2020 by L.L.
No. 18-2020]
SOLAR FACILITY FOOTPRINT
The maximum occupied surface area taken up by the rows of
solar panels and the space between the rows (as the panels are laid
out at the minimum 0° angle) and including any necessary equipment,
access or maintenance roads and pathways.
[Added 12-14-2020 by L.L.
No. 18-2020]
SOLAR PANEL
A panel designed to absorb solar energy and convert it into
electrical or thermal energy.
[Added 12-14-2020 by L.L.
No. 18-2020]
SOLAR SCREEN
A device attached to a building to provide shading for glazed
areas of the building.
SOLAR STORAGE BATTERY
A device that stores energy from the sun and makes it available
in an electrical form.
[Added 12-14-2020 by L.L.
No. 18-2020]
SOLAR-THERMAL ENERGY SYSTEMS
Solar energy systems that directly heat water or other liquid
using sunlight. The heated liquid is used for such purposes as space
heating and cooling, domestic hot water, and the heating of pool water.
[Added 12-14-2020 by L.L.
No. 18-2020]
SPECIAL USE PERMIT
A permit for a use that is generally considered to be appropriate
in a particular zoning district but because of its potential for incompatibility
with adjacent uses requires individual review and may require the
imposition of conditions in order to assure the appropriateness of
the use in a particular zoning district.
SPECIFIED ANATOMICAL AREAS
1.
Less than the completely and opaquely covered human genitals,
pubic region or female breast below a point immediately above the
top of the areola.
2.
Human male genitals in a discernibly turgid state even if completely
and opaquely covered.
STATE ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY REVIEW ACT (SEQR)
A law adopted by the New York State Legislature as Article 8 of the Environmental Conservation Law and regulations adopted pursuant thereto; and Chapter
104 of the Code of the Town of Amherst, Local Environmental Review Law. The purpose of SEQR is to incorporate the consideration of environmental factors into the planning, review and decision-making processes of state, regional and local government agencies. SEQR requires that all agencies determine whether the actions they directly undertake, fund or approve may have a significant impact on the environment, and, if it is determined that the action may have a significant adverse impact, prepare or request an environmental impact statement.
STORY
The portion of a building between the surface of a floor
and the next floor above or the ceilings next above under a roof.
STREET
A public or private way which permits conducting of vehicular
travel and/or affords a primary means of access by vehicles and pedestrians
to abutting properties, including the entire area within the right-of-way.
The term includes those ways as shown on plats filed in the office
of the Erie County Clerk, whether improved or not.
1.
EXPRESSWAY. A divided arterial highway for through traffic to
which access from the abutting properties is prohibited and all street
crossings are made by grade-separated intersections.
2.
MAJOR ARTERIAL. A high volume roadway that carries the major
portion of daily trips to centers of activity in the metropolitan
area. Major arterials (also called principal arterials) place a greater
emphasis on mobility rather than access to land and include fully
and partially controlled access facilities in three categories: Interstates,
Expressways, and Streets. A major arterial serves major through movements
between important centers of activities in a metropolitan area, and
a substantial portion of trips entering and leaving the area. It also
connects freeways with major traffic generators.
3.
MINOR ARTERIAL. A street that connects and augments the major
arterial system. Although its main function is still traffic mobility,
a minor arterial performs this function at a somewhat lower level
and places more emphasis on land access than does a major arterial.
A system of minor arterials serves trips of moderate length and distributes
travel to geographical areas smaller than those served by a major
arterial.
4.
COLLECTOR. A street that distributes trips from and channels
trips to arterials. Additionally, these roadways provide access and
circulation within residential neighborhoods. Collector streets provide
for both access and circulation within residential, business, and
industrial areas. Their access function is more important than that
of arterials, and unlike arterials, their operation is not always
dominated by traffic signals.
5.
LOCAL COLLECTOR. A street that distributes lower volumes of
traffic from predominantly residential developments to collector streets
and arterials. Local collectors carry through traffic, but at lower
volumes than collectors.
6.
LOCAL STREETS. A street that provides for local traffic with
the highest level of property access and the lowest level of mobility.
Through traffic movement is discouraged on local streets.
STREET GRADE
The slope of the street as measured between two points.
STREET LINE
The right-of-way line abutting a public street or edge of
pavement abutting a private street.
[Amended 7-21-2008 by L.L. No. 10-2008]
STRUCTURE
A building, gas or liquid storage tank, or anything other
than a fence, dumpster enclosure, vehicle use area constructed or
erected which requires permanent location in or on the ground or attachment
to something having such location. For application to the floodplain
see § 7-7-4.
[Amended 10-9-2017 by L.L. No. 21-2017]
SURGICAL CENTER/TREATMENT FACILITY
An ambulatory care facility that provides same day services
outside of a traditional hospital setting; including a medical facility
that provides health treatment services for cancer care, dialysis,
infusion and other treatments that require a longer duration of medical
service as well as accessory clinical, professional and administrative
uses located within such a medical facility. Such a medical facility
is distinguished from a general medical office, wherein the patient
visitation involves a shorter duration of medical services rendered.
[Added 12-12-2022 by L.L.
No. 22-2022]
TRANSPORTATION MANAGEMENT PLAN
A document required for reduced parking that details how
the petitioner will reduce parking demand at the proposed development.
The following are possible elements of a transportation management
plan: transportation coordinator, off-peak work hours, preferential
parking and financial incentives.
TREE, LARGE DECIDUOUS
Any self-supporting woody plant of a species that normally
grows to an overall mature height of at least 40 feet, usually with
one main stem or trunk.
TREE, SMALL DECIDUOUS
Any self-supporting woody plant of a species that normally
grows to an overall mature height of at least 15 feet, usually with
one main stem or trunk.
TREE, ORNAMENTAL
Any self-supporting woody plant of a species that features
flowers, bracts and/or fruits that are conspicuous by virtue of their
color or size.
TRUCK WASH AND TRUCK REPAIR FACILITY
An establishment engaged in the washing, servicing, and repair
of commercial trucks. Such uses may engage in truck-related: Tire
servicing and repair, but not recapping or regrooving; Replacement
of mufflers and tail pipes, water hose, fan belts, brake fluid, light
bulbs, fuses, floor mats, seat covers, windshield wipers and wiper
blades, grease retainers, wheel bearings, mirrors, and the like; Radiator
cleaning and flushing; Washing and polishing; Greasing and lubrication;
Providing and repairing of pumps and lines; Minor servicing and repair
of carburetors; Wiring repairs; Adjusting and repairing brakes; Minor
motor adjustments; Vehicle inspection.
Uses permissible at a truck wash and truck repair facility
do not include the rental of motor vehicles, sale of motor vehicle
fuel or parts, major mechanical and body work, straightening of body
parts, painting, welding or storage of vehicles not in operating condition.
[Added 8-9-2021 by L.L.
No. 11-2021]
TOWN LAW
Chapter 62 of the NYS Consolidated Laws.
TURBINE
The parts of a small wind energy system including the blades,
generator and tail.
[Added 8-17-2009 by L.L. No. 12-2009]
UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT
A combination of uses permitted in a nonresidential district
planned as an integrated entity with common access points, off-street
parking, loading and stacking areas, fire lanes and other facilities
and features.
UTILITY, MINOR
Public or private infrastructure serving a limited area with
no on-site personnel. Typical uses include stormwater retention and
detention facilities, telephone exchanges and water and wastewater
pump stations.
VEHICLE SALES, RENTAL AND LEASING
The sale or rental of automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, recreational
vehicles, or boats. Typical uses include new and used car dealerships,
motorcycle dealerships, and boat, trailer, or recreational vehicle
dealerships.
VEHICLE USE AREA
An area used primarily for parking, circulation and storage
of vehicles, including but not limited to, parking lots, loading areas,
stacking spaces and driveways.
VISTA
A view extending into the distance but bounded by structures
or public facilities.
YARD
An open space on the same lot with the building unoccupied
and unobstructed by any portion of the structure from the ground upward,
except as otherwise provided in this Ordinance.
YARD, EXTERIOR SIDE
A side yard located immediately adjacent to a public street
right-of-way line or the edge of pavement of a private street.
[Amended 7-21-2008 by L.L. No. 10-2008]
YARD, FRONT
An open space extending the full width of the lot between
the front lot line abutting a public right-of-way or the edge of the
pavement abutting a private street and the structure setback line
as established by this Ordinance. In no case shall a structure encroach
into an easement area established for a private street.
[Amended 7-21-2008 by L.L. No. 10-2008]
YARD, REAR
The yard extending from the rear wall of the structure to
the rear lot line across the full width of the structure.
YARD, REQUIRED
The minimum yard required between a lot line or edge of pavement
on a private street and building line or line of any parking, loading
and stacking area or any other use requiring a yard in order to comply
with the zoning regulations of the district in which the zoning lot
is located. A required yard shall be open and unobstructed from the
ground upward, except for projections on structures as permitted in
the Zoning Ordinance and except for walks, landscaping and other yard
or site features.
[Amended 7-21-2008 by L.L. No. 10-2008]
YARD, SIDE
An open space extending from the front yard to the rear yard
and of a width established by this Ordinance; the width shall be measured
at right angles to its side lot line.
ZERO LOT LINE HOME
A single-family detached dwelling unit positioned on one
side lot line without any setback with private yards on three sides
of the building, including a wider side yard comprising the equivalent
of two side yards for conventional detached housing.