[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
This Part lists specific controls over certain aspects of land
utilization. These controls are important to the accomplishment of
the purpose of this chapter and shall be strictly applied.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
These controls shall apply when they are specifically referred
to in regulations of the applicable zoning district, elsewhere within
this chapter.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
Every principal building shall be on lots which have safe and convenient access for servicing, fire protection and required off-street parking/loading, and shall be built upon a lot with frontage upon a public or private street improved to meet Township standards or for which such improvements have been insured by the posting of a performance guarantee pursuant to Chapter
22, Subdivision and Land Development.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
In any district, more than one structure housing a permitted
or permissible principal use may be erected on a single lot, provided
that yard and other requirements of this chapter shall be met for
each structure as though it were on an individual lot.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Except as otherwise provided in this section, only customary household
pets (as defined herein) shall be permitted in residential zones.
2. The keeping of horses in residential zones is prohibited.
3. Horses.
A. A horse is only permitted in S-1 and A-1 Zones on-sites of not less
than three acres.
B. If more than one horse is to be kept, there shall be not more than
one horse per each additional one acre.
C. A corral shall be provided to enclose the area where horses are to
be kept, and such a corral shall not be closer than 100 feet to any
residential zone lot or any dwelling other than the horse owner's
dwelling.
D. Where more than three horses are to be kept on a site, a manure management
plan shall be prepared with the assistance and concurrence of the
Luzerne County Soil Conversation Service and the Pennsylvania State
University Cooperative Extension Office. The applicant shall submit
the Plan to the Township's Zoning Officer.
(1)
All manure management plans shall, at a minimum, follow the
guidelines and comply with the criteria set forth in the Pennsylvania
Department of Environmental Protection publication entitled "Manure
Management for Environmental Protection," dated October 1986, and
all technical supplements thereto, as revised and amended as of the
date the manure management plan is submitted.
(2)
The manure management plan shall include provisions for control
of runoff, odor, vectors, and other nuisances. When wastes are stored
outdoors, waste material shall not be less than 200 feet from any
property line, potable water supply, surface water body, stormwater
drainage channel, or occupied residential dwelling, excluding the
subject property owner's or tenant's residence. Any land application
of treatment of wastes shall be done in accordance with accepted practices
recommended by the County Conservation District. Such application
shall be prohibited on lands exceeding 15% in slope and where bedrock
lies less than two feet below the ground surface.
(3)
The manure management plan shall include a statement that periodic
inspections by the Township's Zoning Office will be permitted to verify
that conditions of the Plan have been met an continue to be in compliance.
(4)
When the manure management plan includes the use of leased or
rented land for disposal of manure, a lease or rental agreement specifically
stating that manure disposal is permitted on the leased or rented
property shall be included.
(5)
Disposal of dead animals on all land, including that land intended
for manure management, is expressly prohibited. Dead animals must
be disposed of by rendering.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. General.
A. No accessory structure shall be permitted within any front yard;
and, no accessory structure shall be nearer to any side property line
or rear property line than 10 feet except as otherwise provided herein.
B. No activities shall be permitted which create a public nuisance or
interfere with the use of adjacent residential lots.
C. The maximum height of any accessory building, except one located
on a farm, shall not exceed 20 feet or the height of the principal
structure, whichever is less. The maximum area of any accessory building,
except one located on a farm, shall not exceed 1,200 square feet in
area.
[Amended by Ord. No. 3-2012, 11/13/2012]
D. The minimum distance between any accessory buildings shall be 10
feet. The minimum distance between any accessory building not attached
to the principal building and a principal building shall be 10 feet.
E. On any residential lot with an area of less than 15,000 square feet,
there shall be not more than two accessory structures. On any residential
lot with an area of more than 15,000 square feet, there shall be not
more than four accessory structures.
F. Accessory uses include, but are not limited to, animal shelters,
tool sheds, private detached garages, noncommercial greenhouses and
noncommercial tennis courts. Noncommercial swimming pools and related
structures used solely by the occupants of the principal use of the
property on which it is located and their guests shall not be included
in the tabulation of the maximum allowed number of accessory buildings.
2. Use Regulations.
A. Swimming Pools. No swimming pools shall be erected or installed unless
a permit has been obtained from the Township. Private swimming pools,
permanent and portable, which shall be accessory to a principal noncommercial
dwelling use shall be regulated as follows:
(1)
Such use may be erected only on the same zone lot as the principal
structure.
(2)
Swimming pools, including any walks or paved areas or accessory
structures adjacent thereto, may not be located closer than 10 feet
to any property line of the property on which they are located and
shall not be located within a required front yard.
(3)
The swimming pool shall be sued solely for the enjoyment of
the occupants of the principal use of the property on which it is
located, and their guests, and no fee shall be charged for the use
thereof.
(4)
The swimming pool, or the entire property on which it is located, shall be so walled or substantially fenced so as to prevent uncontrolled access by children from the street or from adjacent properties, said fence or wall to be not less than six feet in height and maintained in good condition. Pools beyond 200 feet of any public road need not be fenced. Aboveground pools shall be exempt from the provisions of this Subsection
2A(4) to protect against uncontrolled access by children, when equivalent protection is provided, such as:
(a)
The aboveground pool has a deck/fence combination and the height
of the fence above the entrance level of the pools is not less than
30 inches; and
(b)
The fence is equipped with a gate that can be closed when the
pool is not in use.
(5)
All pumping, cleaning, filtering and screening devices shall
be of a type and source approved by local and/or State Health Department
authorities.
B. Detached Garages. There shall be not more than 1,200 square feet
of accessory garage space on any residential lot. No temporary structure
shall be permitted.
C. No-Impact Home-Based Business. A business or commercial activity
administered or conducted as an accessory use which is clearly secondary
to the use as a residential dwelling and which involves no customer,
client or patient traffic, whether vehicular or pedestrian, pickup,
delivery or removal functions to or from the premises, in excess of
those normally associated with residential use. The business or commercial
activity must satisfy the following requirements:
(1)
The business activity shall be compatible with the residential
use of the property and surrounding residential uses.
(2)
The business shall employ no employees other than family members
residing in the dwelling.
(3)
There shall be no display or sale of retail goods and no stockpiling
or inventory of a substantial nature.
(4)
There shall be no outside appearance of a business use, including,
but not limited to, parking, signs or lights.
(5)
The business activity may not use any equipment or process with
creates noise, vibration, glare, fumes, odors or electrical or electronic
interference, including interference with radio or television reception,
which is detectable in the neighborhood.
(6)
The business activity may not generate any solid waste or sewage
discharge in volume or type which is not normally associated with
residential use in the neighborhood.
(7)
The business activity shall be conducted only within the dwelling
and may not occupy more than 25% of the habitable floor area.
(8)
The business may not involve any illegal activity.
3. Apartment and Townhouse Accessory Uses. Apartment and townhouse accessory
uses shall be restricted to uses designed for residents of the dwelling
units and may include areas for washing machines and dryers, lockers
or storage areas and recreational rooms and lounges.
4. Projections.
A. Patios may not be located closer than 10 feet to any adjacent property
line.
B. Chimneys, leaders, cornices, eaves, gutters, bay windows and the
like may extend not more than 24 inches into any required yard.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. General.
[Amended by Ord. No. 3-2012, 11/13/2012]
A. No accessory structure shall be located within any required front
or side yard or within 20 feet of the rear property line.
B. The maximum height of any accessory building shall not exceed 20
feet or the height of the principal structure, whichever is less.
C. The maximum area of any accessory building shall not exceed 1,200
square feet in area.
2. Regulations.
A. Storage Areas. Shall be located in an area which has direct access
to a street or driveways.
B. Living Quarters. Shall be permitted for proprietors and for watchmen,
caretakers or similar employees.
C. Accessory Restaurants and Cafeterias. Shall be for the use of employees
only.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. All areas for off-street parking, off-street unloading and loading
and the storage or movement of motor vehicles shall be physically
separated from the public street or highway by a raised curb, planting
strip or other suitable barrier against unchanneled motor vehicle
entrance or exit, except for necessary accessways or access roads
which supply entrance to and egress from each parking, loading or
storage area.
2. Each use with less than 100 feet of frontage on a public street shall
have not more than one accessory to each such street. No use with
100 feet or more frontage on a public street shall have more than
two accessways to any one street for each 300 feet of frontage. Where
practicable, movement into and out of parking areas shall avoid direct
access to or from an arterial street or major collector.
3. Where there is more than one driveway to a parking area, the driveways,
whenever possible, shall be limited to one-way travel either as an
entrance to or an exit from the parking area. The width of such entrances
and exits, measured at the street property line, shall conform to
the following schedule:
Type of Driveway
|
Width in Feet
|
---|
Minimum
|
Maximum
|
---|
One-way
|
12
|
26
|
Two-way
|
24
|
36
|
A. Each lane provided shall be minimum of 12 feet in width.
B. The radius of the edge of the driveway apron shall be at least 15
feet and no more than 50 feet.
4. The location and width of exit and entrance driveways shall be planned
to interfere as little as possible with the use of adjacent property
and with pedestrian and vehicular traffic on adjacent streets. The
center line of the access driveway to any public street shall be located
at least 75 feet from the intersection of any street lines.
5. Access ways shall enter a public road at not less than 60° angle
to the public road center line.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. General Requirements.
A. Where district regulations require buffer yards, screening, planting strips and the like, these shall be subject to approval of the Zoning Officer prior to planting. The type and density of planting shall adequately provide the screening effect required in accordance with the standards set forth in §
27-510, Subsection
3, hereof.
B. Plant materials used in screen planting shall be at least four feet in height when planted, and shall be of such species as will provide, within three years, a complete year-round visual screen. Plant materials shall be as set forth in §
27-511 hereof.
C. The screen planting shall be maintained permanently and plant material
which does not live shall be replaced within six months.
D. Any portion of a site which is not used for buildings, other structures,
loading or parking spaces, and aisles, sidewalks and designated storage
areas shall be planted with an all season ground cover and shall be
landscaped according to an overall plan.
2. Landscaping Standards.
A. Areas Required to be Landscaped. Areas that are required to be landscaped
in accordance with the standards set forth herein shall be:
(1)
Off-street parking and road areas.
(2)
Areas where buffers and/or screening is required to assure privacy
and/or to block the view of unattractive development or other features.
3. Landscaping, Screening and Buffer Standards.
A. Off-Street Parking and Loading Areas.
(1)
Location of Off-Street Parking and Loading Areas.
(a)
No parking space shall be nearer to any property line or right-of-way
line than the minimum setback required for a principal building on
the subject lot, but in no case less than 10 feet.
(b)
Parking lots shall be provided at the side or to the rear of
nonresidential buildings that are visible from public roads; provided,
however, that when such placement is not desirable or practicable,
the off-street parking may be provided between the front of the building
and the right-of-way; in such cases, the parking area shall be set
back not less than the minimum setback required for the front yard
of the principal building, but not less than 25 feet; and the front
yard area shall be developed to form a buffer as follows: A thickly
vegetated buffer shall be provided, and the width, length and planting
materials shall be sufficient to visually screen the view of parked
vehicles from the public right-of-way. The buffer shall not consist
of or contain any paved areas, except for pedestrian walkways.
(2)
Landscaping Off-Street Parking Lots.
(a)
Parking lots should be effectively landscaped with trees and
shrubs to reduce the visual impact of glare, headlights, and parking
lot lights; to delineate driving lanes; and define rows of parking.
Furthermore, parking lots should be adequately landscaped to provide
shade in order to reduce the amount of reflected heat and to improve
the aesthetics of parking lots. At least one shade tree shall be provided
for each 300 square feet (or fraction thereof) of interior landscaping.
(b)
The use of small, ornamental trees in parking lots should be
avoided, since these trees will never grow tall enough to provide
shade and will block store signs and clear sight triangles. Canopy
trees will grow tall enough so that signs can be seen under their
branches.
(c)
All parking lots with 10 or more stalls shall be landscaped
according to the following regulations:
1)
One planting island shall be provided for every 10 parking stalls.
There shall be no more than 10 contiguous parking stalls in a row
without a planting island.
2)
The ends of all parking rows shall be divided from drives by
planting islands.
3)
In residential developments, large parking lots shall be divided
by planting strips into smaller parking areas of no more than 40 stalls.
4)
In nonresidential developments, large parking lots shall be
divided by planting strips into smaller parking areas of no more than
100 stalls.
5)
Planting islands shall be a minimum of nine feet by 18 feet
in area, underlain by soil (not base course material); mounded at
no more than a 4:1 slope, nor less than a 12:1 slope, and shall be
protected by curbing or bollards. Each planting island shall contain
one shade tree, plus shrubs and/or ground cover to cover the entire
area.
6)
All planting strips shall be a minimum of nine feet wide. Strips
shall run the length of the parking row, underlain by soil, and shall
be mounded at no more than a 4:1 slope, nor less than a 12:1 slope,
and shall be protected by curbs, wheel stops, or bollards. Planting
strips shall contain plantings of street-type shade trees at intervals
of 30 feet to 40 feet, plus shrubs and/or ground cover to cover the
entire area at maturity. Where planting strips shall exceed a width
of 12 feet, the herein-described shrubbery and ground cover requirements
may be reduced to lawn grass ground cover.
7)
Plant materials shall be in accordance with the provisions of §
27-510, Subsection
3, hereof.
8)
All parking lots shall be screened from public roads and from adjacent properties as required in §
27-510, Subsection 3B and C, hereof.
(3)
Lighting Off-Street Parking Lots.
(a)
For all parking areas, driveways and walkways, all pole-mounted
luminaires shall be low-maintenance poles and fixtures, and all branch
circuiting for lighting shall be installed below grade.
(b)
The placement of light standards shall be coordinated with the
landscape plan to avoid a conflict with the effectiveness of light
fixtures.
(c)
Lighting shall be directed away from adjacent residential uses
and residential zones, and shall be shielded from fugitive skyward
emissions.
B. Buffer and Screening Requirements. All subdivisions and land developments
shall provide the following types of buffer/screening treatment that
is applicable to the use and the environment of the subject development,
as follows:
(1)
Property line buffers that act to integrate new development
with its surroundings and to separate incompatible land uses.
(2)
Site element screens that act to minimize or eliminate views
to certain site elements located within 100 feet of property lines
or road right-of-way (either public or private).
(3)
Property Line and Right-of-Way Line Buffer Requirements. Property
line and right-of-way line buffers shall be required for the following
types of development and as otherwise specified herein:
(a)
All nonresidential development adjoining a residential district.
(b)
Stormwater basins are permitted in the buffer area.
(d)
An on-site investigation by the applicant shall determine the
adjacent land uses along each property boundary. In the case of vacant
land, the existing zoned uses shall be used. The existing or zoned
uses shall be noted on the plan. In the case of several permitted
uses on a site, the most restrictive requirements shall apply. The
Zoning Officer shall have final approval of interpretation of land
uses or Zoning Map.
(e)
Buffer area location and dimensions.
(f)
A buffer area of not less than 25 feet in wide shall be established
along all property lines and right-of-way lines unless otherwise specified
herein.
(g)
The buffer area may be included within the front, side, or rear
yard setback.
(h)
The buffer area shall be a continuous pervious planting bed
consisting of trees and shrubs, grass or ground cover.
(i)
Parking is not permitted in the buffer area.
(j)
Site element screens are permitted in the buffer area.
C. Site Element Screens.
(1)
Site element screens shall be required in all proposed land
developments around the following site elements:
(b)
Dumpsters, trash disposal, or recycling areas.
(c)
Service or loading docks.
(f)
Sewage treatment plants and pump stations.
(g)
Other unenclosed uses of a similar nature, and enclosed uses
such as rear facades facing public right-of-way.
(2)
Screen Location. The site element screen shall be placed between
the site element and the property line or right-of-way, and shall
be designed to block views to the maximum extent possible. The screen
shall be located as close as possible to the site element and shall
surround the element without impeding function or encroaching on clear
sight triangles.
(3)
Screen Types. Any of the following types of screen may be utilized
in those cases where they will achieve the objective of blocking certain
uses from public view.
(a)
Evergreen or Deciduous Shrubs.
(b)
Double Row of Evergreen Trees.
(c)
Opaque Fence. A six-foot opaque fence surrounding the site element
on at least three sides.
(d)
Architectural Extension of the Building. An eight-foot-minimum-height
architectural extension of the building (such as a wing wall) shall
enclose service or loading docks. The building materials and style
of the extension shall be consistent with the main building.
(e)
Berm with Ornamental Trees or Grass. A two-foot-high to three-foot-high
continuous curvilinear berm with ornamental trees. The maximum slope
of the berm shall be 3:1.
(g)
Low Wall. A wall of brick or stone (not concrete block), at
least 50% opaque, not less than three feet nor more than four feet
in height.
(h)
Existing healthy trees, shrubs, or woodlands may be substituted
for part or all of the required plant material at the discretion of
the governing body. The minimum quantities and/or visual effect of
the existing vegetation shall be equal to or exceed that of the required
buffer.
(i)
Existing topographic conditions, such as embankments or berms,
may be substituted for part or all of the required property line buffers
at the discretion of the Zoning Officer. The minimum visual effect
shall be equal to or exceed that of the required screen.
(j)
The applicant may propose the use of alternative screen types
or changes in plant materials or designs which fulfill the intent
of this chapter, with the approval of the Zoning Officer.
(k)
Plant materials shall meet the specifications of §
27-510, Subsection
3, hereof.
D. Plant Materials.
(1)
General Location Requirements.
(a)
The location, dimensions, and spacing of requirement plantings
should be adequate for their proper growth and maintenance, taking
into account the sizes of such plantings at maturity and their present
and future environmental requirements such as wind, soil, moisture,
and sunlight.
(b)
Plantings should be selected and located where they will not
contribute to conditions hazardous to public safety. Such locations
include, but are not limited to, public street right-of-way, underground
and aboveground utilities, and sight triangle areas required for unobstructed
views at street intersections.
(2)
Design Criteria.
(a)
The required plant material shall be distributed over the entire
length and width of the buffer area.
(b)
Buffer plant material may be arranged symmetrically (formal)
or asymmetrically (informal) and may be grouped to form plant clusters.
However, informal groupings that reflect the natural character of
the region are encouraged.
(c)
Plants shall be spaced to provided optimum growing conditions.
(d)
A variety of tree species is required.
(3)
Substitutions. In accordance with the following guidelines,
wherever possible, existing vegetation shall be retained and utilized
as a buffer or a screen in accordance with the following guidelines:
(a)
Existing healthy trees, shrubs, or woodlands may be substituted
for part or all of the required plant material at the discretion of
the Zoning Officer. The minimum quantities and/or visual effect of
the existing vegetation shall be equal to or exceed that of the required
buffer.
(b)
Existing topographic conditions, such as embankments or berms,
in conjunction with existing vegetation, may be substituted for part
or all of the required property line buffers at the discretion of
the Zoning Officer. The minimum visual effect shall be equal to or
exceed that of the required buffer or screen.
E. Plant Material Specifications. The following requirements are minimum
standards which shall apply to all plant materials or transplanted
trees as required under this chapter; additional plant materials,
berms, or architectural elements may be included in the plan at the
applicant's discretion:
(1)
All plants shall meet the minimum standards for health, form
and root condition as outlined in the American Association of Nurserymen
(AAN) standards.
(2)
All plant material shall be hardy and within the USDA Hardiness
Zone applicable to Luzerne County, Pennsylvania.
(3)
Canopy trees, sometimes called "shade trees," shall reach a
minimum height and spread of 30 feet at maturity as determined by
the AAN standards and shall be deciduous. New trees shall have a minimum
caliper of two and a half inches at planting.
(4)
Ornamental trees or large shrubs shall reach a typical minimum
height of 15 feet at maturity, based on AAN standards. Trees and shrubs
may be deciduous or evergreen and shall have a distinctive ornamental
character such as showy flowers, fruit, habit, foliage, or bark. New
ornamental trees shall have minimum height of six feet or one-and-one-half-inch
caliper. New large shrubs shall have a minimum height of two and a
half feet to three feet at time of planting.
(5)
Small shrubs may be evergreen or deciduous and shall have a
minimum height at maturity of four feet based on AAN standards. New
shrubs shall have a minimum height of 18 inches at time of planting.
(6)
Evergreen trees shall reach a typical minimum height of 20 feet
at maturity based on AAN standards for that species and shall remain
evergreen throughout the year. New evergreens shall have a minimum
height at planting of six feet.
F. Additional Plant Material Guidelines. Plant material features should
be:
(1)
Able to thrive in the existing soil or soil that can be amended
to reasonable specifications.
(2)
Strong wood, not prone to breakage in windstorms or ice storms.
(3)
Fruitless or otherwise free of parts that fall and could damage
vehicles, clog drains, or make pavement slippery.
(4)
Tolerant to excessive heat, deicing salt and air pollution.
(5)
Free of unacceptable levels of disease or insect pests, including
aphids, that coat objects below with sticky "honeydew."
(6)
Fits the site aesthetically and serves an intended function
(shade, screen, focal point, etc.).
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Prohibited Uses. No building may be erected, altered or used and
no lot or premises may be used for any activity which is continuously
noxious, injurious or offensive by reason of dust, smoke, odor, fumes,
noise, vibration, gas, illumination or similar substances or conditions,
provided that any uses may be maintained in a way which creates no
danger to the public health or safety of neighboring residential uses.
All uses shall be subject to the following environmental performance
standards. The fact that a farm use creates an annoyance or inconvenience
shall not be deemed a danger to public health or safety.
2. General Compliance Requirements. When required, the applicant shall
demonstrate that adequate provisions will be made to reduce and minimize
any objectionable elements. Nothing in these performance standards
shall take precedence over any applicable current state or federal
law governing air management, wastewater management, solid waste management
or noise as enforced by the Federal Environmental Protection Agency
and the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection or their
successors.
3. Procedures Prior to Construction and Operation. Any application for
a building permit for a nonresidential use shall be accompanied by
a sworn statement by the owner of such property that said use will
be operated in accordance with the performance standards set forth
herein. Such application shall further be accompanied by a report
prepared by a licensed professional engineer describing the methods
or procedures to be undertaken to assure compliance with the performance
standards specified herein; provided, however, that the Zoning Hearing
Board will consider requests for a waiver of this requirement and
may waive this requirement for uses which are not considered likely
to violate any of the standards set forth herein.
4. Continued Compliance. Continued compliance with performance standards
is required, and enforcement of continued compliance with these performance
standards shall be the responsibility of the Zoning Officer.
5. Determination of Violation. The Zoning Officer shall investigate
any purported violation of performance standards and, if there is
reasonable grounds for the same, shall initiate the procedures set
forth in Part 8 hereof.
6. Definition of Elements. No land or building in any district shall
be operated in such a manner so as to create any dangerous, injurious,
noxious, or otherwise objectionable fire, explosive or other hazard;
noise or vibration; smoke, dust, dirt or other form of air pollution;
electrical or other disturbance; glare; or other nuisance, condition
or element in such amount as to adversely affect the surrounding area
of premises (referred to herein as "dangerous or objectionable elements"),
provided that any use permitted by this chapter may be undertaken
and maintained in any district if it conforms to the regulations of
this subsection limiting dangerous and objectionable elements at the
specified point or points of the determination of their existence.
7. Locations Where Determinations Are to be Made for Enforcement of
Performance Standards. The determination of the existence of any dangerous
and objectionable elements shall be made at:
A. The point or points where such elements shall be most apparent for
fire and explosion hazards, for radioactivity and electrical disturbances,
for smoke and other forms of air pollution.
B. The property lines of the use creating such elements for noise, for
vibration, for glare and for odors.
(1)
Liquid and Solid Wastes. No operation shall discharge wastes
of any kind into a surface water or a groundwater source. All methods
of waste disposal shall be approved by the Pennsylvania Department
of Environmental Protection. Such evidence of approval shall be provided
to the Township. The owner of any parcel governed by this chapter
may be required, at the discretion of the Township, to monitor the
groundwater and surface water in the vicinity of his premises. Water
testing shall be conducted at an interval deemed appropriate by the
governing body on any stream located on the premises or any stream
within 500 feet of any area used for storage of liquid or solid wastes.
In addition, the well located on the premises shall also be sampled
at an interval to be deemed appropriate by the governing body. The
sample shall be collected and analyzed by a certified water analysis
laboratory for hydrocarbons or other parameters deemed appropriate
by the governing body, and results shall be provided to the Township.
If samples exceed the limits established by the Pennsylvania Department
of Environmental Protection, remedial action shall be taken in accordance
with this chapter.
(2)
Heat. No activity or use shall produce heat perceptible beyond
its property lines and no use shall be permitted that would cause
the ambient water temperature, as defined by the Pennsylvania Department
of Environmental Protection, or its successor agency, to rise or fall
more than 5° F. (2.8° C.) during the ten-year, seven-day low
flow in any natural pond, stream, river, or other watercourse.
(3)
Electromagnetic. No electromagnetic radiation shall be emitted
that does not comply with the regulations of the FCC (Federal Communication
Commission) or which interferes with radio or television reception
or the operation of other equipment beyond the lot lines.
(4)
Visual.
(a)
No lighting shall be utilized in a manner which produces glare
perceptible at or beyond the lot boundaries.
(b)
Any operation producing heat shall be conducted in such a manner
as to prevent any effect from the heat beyond the property lines of
the lot on which the operation is located.
(c)
No advertising displays shall be utilized in a manner which
produces periodic flashing or other intensity changes.
(5)
Vibration. No physical vibration shall be perceptible without
use of instrument at or beyond the lot boundaries.
(6)
Air Management.
(a)
The emission of any smoke at a density greater than No. 1 on
the Ringelmann Smoke Chart as published by the U.S. Bureau of Mines
shall not be permitted, except that smoke of a density of No. 2 may
be emitted for not more than four minutes in any thirty-minute period.
These provisions applicable to gray smoke shall also apply to visible
smoke of a different color but with equivalent apparent opacity. This
standard shall not be applied to emissions where the presence of uncombined
water is the only reason for the failure of the emission to meet the
opacity limits. (Uncombined water produces a white "smoke" which vanishes
a short distance from the stack.)
(b)
The only gas or vapor producing operations permitted are those
necessary for heating or processing.
(c)
Open burning is not permitted.
(d)
Incineration shall be permitted only when required for the purpose
of abating air pollution, and only by permit issued by the Pennsylvania
Department of Environmental Protection.
(e)
No radioactive vapors or gases shall be emitted from the facility
in harmful amounts as defined by the U.S. Nuclear Regulatory Commission
regulations.
(7)
Noise.
(a)
At no point on the boundary of a residential district, or property
line other than a residential district boundary, shall the sound pressure
level of any individual operation or plant (other than background
noises produced by sources not under the control of this chapter,
such as the operation of motor vehicles or other transportation facilities)
exceed the decibel levels in the designed octave bands shown for the
districts indicated:
Octave Band Frequency
(Hz)
|
Residential District
(Decibels)
|
Nonresidential
(Decibels)
|
---|
>
|
<
|
|
|
---|
20
|
75
|
72
|
79
|
75
|
150
|
67
|
74
|
150
|
300
|
59
|
66
|
300
|
800
|
52
|
59
|
800
|
1200
|
46
|
53
|
1200
|
2400
|
40
|
47
|
2400
|
4800
|
34
|
41
|
4800
|
|
32
|
39
|
(b)
If the noise is not smooth and continuous and is not radiated
between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., one or more of the
corrections in the following table shall be applied to the octave
band levels given above.
Type or Location of Operations or Character of Noise
|
Correction in Decibels
|
---|
Daytime operation only
|
5
|
Noise source operates less than*
|
|
20% of any one-hour period
|
5
|
5% of any one-hour period
|
10
|
Noise of impulsive character, hammering, etc.
|
-5
|
Noise of periodic character, hum, screech, etc.
|
-5
|
Property is located in an I District and is not within 500 feet
measured horizontally or vertically of any R District
|
10
|
*
|
Apply one of these corrections only.
|
(8)
Odor. No emission of unpleasant gases or other odorous matter shall be permitted in such quantities as to be offensive outside the lot lines of the tract. Any process which may involve the creation or emission of any odorous shall be provided with a secondary safeguard system, so that control will be maintained if the primary safeguard system should fail. There is hereby established, as a guide in determining such quantities of offensive odors, Table 3 (Odor Thresholds) in Chapter
5 "Air Pollution Abatement Manual," copyright 1951, by Manufacturing Chemist Association, Inc., Washington, DC. Where said publication give a range of figures, the highest figure shall be used.
(9)
Toxic Gases. The emission of gases or fumes injurious to persons
or property beyond the lot occupied by the use is prohibited. No activity
in any industrial district shall be reactivated, established, modified,
constructed, or operated without having obtained valid permits and/or
certificates from the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection
or its successor agency for airborne emissions. Such proof of compliance
shall consist of duplicate copies of such permits and/or certificates
for the current time period. In addition to the requirements of the
Department of Environmental Protection or its successor agency, the
following requirements shall apply:
(a)
Particular Matter. No use shall exceed the national ambient
air quality standards established in the federal Clean Air Act or the requirements of Titles 25 and 35 of the Pennsylvania
Code as they are amended and adopted for particulate matter.
(b)
Smoke or Steam. No use may emit from a vent, stack, chimney,
or combustion process any smoke that exceeds a density or equivalent
capacity of Ringelmann No. 1, except that an emission that does not
exceed a density of equivalent capacity of Ringelmann No. 2 is permissible
for a duration of not more than four minutes during any eight-hour
period if the source of such emission is not located within 250 feet
of a residential district. All measurements shall be taken at the
point of emission of the smoke. (For the purpose of determining the
density of equivalent opacity of smoke, the Ringelmann Chart, as adopted
and published by the United State Department of Interior, Bureau of
Mines Information Circular 8333, May 1967, shall be used. The Ringelmann
number referred to in this section refers to the number of the area
of the Ringelmann Chart that coincides most nearly with the visual
density of equivalent opacity of the emission of smoke observed. For
example, a reading of Ringelmann No. 1 indicates a 20% density of
the smoke observed.)
(c)
Toxic Matter and Hazardous Material. Emissions of chemicals,
gases, components, or elements, listed as being toxic matter or hazardous
material by the American Conference of Governmental Industrial Hygienists,
the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection or the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, or their successor agencies, shall
not exceed any stated threshold limit value in any industrial district.
No emission of toxic matter shall exceed 50% of the threshold limit
value in any adjacent residential or commercial district.
(10)
Storage or Explosive. No explosive may be stored in agriculture,
residential or commercial districts, except that commercial fertilizers
may be stored in agricultural districts. Explosives may be stored
in industrial districts provided that the storage area is no closer
than 200 feet to any property line and provided the requirements of
all applicable local, state and federal regulations are met.
(a)
Tanks meant for or used for the permanent or temporary storage
of liquid propane gas, for any use, including storage for commercial
sale and distribution shall have a fully fenced enclosure, including
a gate or other entrance device, which is capable of being secured
against intrusion.
(b)
Liquefied petroleum gas tanks shall be placed no closer than
10 feet to the property line on a residential lot and 15 feet to the
property line on commercial or industrial lots. In addition, where
the lot abuts a lot whereon a residential use is existing at the time
such tank is installed, visual screening shall be provided, using
either vegetation or fencing which accomplishes that purpose.
(c)
No LPG tank shall be placed within the front yard of any property
regardless of use.
(d)
All outdoor storage facilities for fuel shall be enclosed by
an approved safety fence to prevent access thereto by unauthorized
individuals.
(e)
All materials or wastes which might cause fumes, constitute
a fire hazard, or attract rodents or insects may only be stored if
enclosed in buildings or containers which are adequate to eliminate
such hazards.
(f)
No materials, fuels, wastes, or flammable substances may be
deposited or stored on a lot in such a manner as to allow them to
be transferred off the lot by natural causes or forces. No substances,
including but not limited to gasoline, oil, waste oil, and chemicals,
which can contaminate a stream or watercourse or render such stream
or water source unusable or undesirable as a source of water supply
or recreation or which will destroy or damage aquatic life shall be
stored in such a location so that they could be introduced into the
said stream or watercourse by natural causes or force or by rupture
of storage containers or accidental discharge.
(11)
Lighting. When the property of which any activity is conducted
is illuminated at night, such illumination shall be so designed and
located that the light sources are shielded from adjoining residences
and streets and shall not be of excessive brightness nor cause a glare
hazardous or noxious to pedestrians or drivers at or beyond the lot
boundaries. No lighting shall be utilized in such a manner to produce
a light intensity greater than 10 footcandles beyond the lot boundaries
when the adjacent land is included within an A-1, S-1 or R-1 Zoning
District. No direct beams of light shall be directed toward adjacent
properties.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Signs may be erected and maintained only when in compliance with
the provisions of this chapter and all other ordinances and regulations
relating to the erections, alteration or maintenance of signs.
A. General.
(1)
Signs shall not contain moving parts nor use flashing or intermittent
illumination. The source of light shall be steady and stationary.
(2)
No sign shall be placed in such a position, or have such a source
of illumination, that it will cause any danger to pedestrians or vehicular
traffic. No sign shall be so placed, lighted or designed as to imitate
or produce the illusion of traffic control devices.
(3)
No sign other than official traffic signs shall be erected within
the right-of-way lines of any street.
(4)
Every sign must be constructed of durable material and be kept
in good condition. Any sign which is allowed to become dilapidated
shall be removed at the expense of the owner or lessee. The Township
Building Inspector shall make such determination as to the state of
repair.
(5)
No sign shall cast objectionable light upon any activity or
building beyond the property lines of the property on which it is
located.
(6)
The distance from the ground to the highest part of any sign
shall not exceed 10 feet in residential districts. The distance from
the ground to the highest part of any freestanding sign in a commercial
or industrial district shall not exceed 25 feet. In commercial and
industrial districts, no portion of a sign which is attached to a
building or supported by a building shall extend above the height
of the building.
(7)
No sign shall be erected or located as to prevent free ingress
to or from any window, door or fire escape.
B. Signs Permitted in Agricultural and Residential Districts.
(2)
Identification signs or bulletin or announcement boards for
schools, churches, hospitals or similar institutions, and for clubs,
lodges, farms, estates or similar uses, provided that:
(a)
No more than two such signs shall be erected on any frontage
of any one property.
(b)
The area on one side of any such sign shall not exceed 12 square
feet.
(c)
No such sign shall be closer than 10 feet to the front lot line.
(3)
Professional, home occupation or name sign indicating the name,
profession or activity of the occupant of a dwelling, provided:
(a)
No side any such sign shall exceed two square feet in area.
(b)
No such sign shall be located within 10 feet of the front lot
line.
(c)
One such sign shall be permitted for each permitted use of dwelling.
(d)
Signs indicating a permitted nonresidential use shall be erected
on the property where that use exists.
(4)
Real estate signs, including signs advertising the rental or
sale of premises, provided that:
(a)
The area on any one side of any such sign shall not exceed 12
square feet.
(b)
A sign shall be located on the property to which it refers.
(c)
No sign shall be located within 10 feet of the front lot line.
(d)
No more than one such sign shall be placed on any one street
frontage.
(5)
Temporary signs of contractors, architects and the like, provided
that:
(a)
Such signs shall be removed promptly upon completion of the
work.
(b)
The area of such signs shall not exceed 12 square feet.
(c)
Such signs shall be located on the property of which the work
is being done.
(d)
Such signs shall be no closer than 10 feet to the front lot
line.
(6)
Signs advertising a lawful nonconforming use, provided that:
(a)
The area on one side of such sign shall not exceed 12 square
feet.
(b)
The sign shall be erected only on the premises on which such
nonconforming use is located.
(c)
No more than two such signs shall be erected on any one street
frontage.
(7)
Signs necessary for the identification and protection of public
utility facilities, provided that the area of one side of such sign
shall not exceed four square feet.
(8)
Within an A-1, R-1 or S-1 District, a sign advertising the sale
of farm products, nursery products or livestock produced or raised
on the premises, provided:
(a)
Signs within a residential subdivision to direct persons to
a rental office or sample unit within that subdivision provided that
the area on one side of any such sign shall not exceed two square
feet.
(b)
Trespassing signs and signs indicating the private nature of
premises. The area of any one side of such signs shall not exceed
two square feet and the signs shall be placed at intervals of not
less than 50 feet along any street frontage.
C. Signs in Commercial and Industrial Districts. Signs may be erected
and maintained, provided that:
(1)
No sign advertising a use not conducted or goods not sold on
the premises shall be permitted, except for directional signs, and
outdoor advertising signs subject to the following regulations:
(a)
Outdoor advertising signs shall be permitted only in industrial
districts.
(b)
No freestanding sign shall be nearer to any property line than
the height of the sign, but in no case less than 25 feet.
(c)
No outdoor advertising sign shall be permitted within 200 feet
of any residential district, nor facing any public or parochial school,
library, church, hospital, or similar institutional use.
(d)
No two outdoor advertising signs shall be closer to one another
than 1,000 feet. Double outdoor advertising signs shall be treated
as a single sign regarding the minimum distance between signs.
(e)
Such signs shall conform with all yard space requirements for
the district within which they are located.
(f)
No one side of any such sign shall exceed an area of 672 square
feet.
(2)
No signs shall be readable from the rear of any property when
the rear of that property abuts a residential district, nor shall
any sign be readable from the side of any property when the side of
that property abuts a residential district.
(3)
Except as otherwise provided for outdoor advertising signs, as specified in §
27-512, Subsection
1C(1), hereof, the total area on one side of all signs placed on or facing on any one street frontage of any one premises shall not exceed an area of 100 square feet.
(4)
The area on one side of a directional sign shall not exceed
15 square feet.
(5)
No part of any sign shall be located within 10 feet of the front
lot line.
(6)
No more than one freestanding sign shall be allowed on any one
property.
(7)
No more than one directional sign shall be allowed on any one
street frontage of any one property.
(8)
No more than two separate signs shall face any one street frontage
on any one premises.
(9)
In the case of a building housing more than one commercial or
industrial use, one permanent identifying sign for the building, the
area on one side of which shall not exceed 100 square feet, may be
erected. In addition, for each commercial or industrial use located
within the building, one sign, the area of which shall not exceed
20 square feet, may be attached to that potion of the building housing
the use.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Paved off-street loading and unloading spaces, with proper access
from a street or common driveway, shall be provided on any lot on
which a building for trade, business or manufacturing is hereafter
erected or substantially altered. All such areas for the loading and
unloading of vehicles, and for the servicing of establishments or
shops by refuse collection, fuel and other service vehicles, shall
be of such size, design and arrangement that they may be used without
blocking or otherwise interfering with the use of automobile accessways,
parking facilities or pedestrianways. All loading areas shall be paved.
Loading areas shall not be located within required front yards.
2. All such spaces shall have dimensions not less than 12 feet by 45
feet with a clearance of not less than 14 feet in height. Spaces required
shall be determined by the following table and shall be located exclusive
of any public right-of-way or required parking area:
Off-Street Loading Space Requirements
|
---|
Uses
|
Square Feet Floor Area
|
Required Off-Street Loading Berths
|
---|
Schools
|
15,000 or more
|
1
|
Hospitals (in addition to space for ambulances)
|
10,000 to 300,000
|
1
|
|
(For each additional 300,000 or major fraction thereof)
|
1 additional
|
Undertakers and funeral parlors
|
5,000
|
1
|
|
(For each additional 5,000 or major fraction thereof)
|
1 additional
|
Hotels and offices
|
10,000 or more
|
1
|
Commercial, wholesale, manufacturing and storage
|
|
|
|
10,000 to 25,000
|
1
|
|
25,000 to 40,000
|
2
|
|
40,000 to 60,000
|
3
|
|
60,000 to 100,000
|
4
|
|
For each additional 50,000 or major fraction thereof
|
1 additional
|
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Off-street parking facilities shall be provided whenever:
A. A building is constructed or a new use established.
B. The use of an existing building is changed to a use requiring more
parking facilities.
C. An existing building is altered so as to increase the amount of parking
space required.
2. Each parking space shall have a minimum area of 180 square feet and
minimum dimensions of nine feet by 20 feet. In addition, appropriate
driveways, aisles and maneuvering space shall be provided to permit
safe and convenient access to and use of the area provided for parking
purposes, as well as for public safety equipment such as fire protection
equipment. Proper access from a street or driveway shall be provided.
3. Parking spaces for residential uses shall be located on the same
lot as the use served and shall be located behind the street right-of-way
line. Parking spaces for other uses shall be provided for on the same
lot as the use being served or in parking facilities within 300 feet
of the use, except in the case of a shopping center, industrial park
or similar grouping of buildings entirely within the lot lines of
the property. In industrial districts, off-street parking shall not
be permitted between the street line and building setback line, except
visitor parking.
4. Joint parking facilities for two or more uses may be established,
provided that the number of spaces provided is not less than the sum
of the spaces required for each individual use. Required spaces provided
off-site shall be in the same ownership as the use to which they are
accessory and shall be subject to deed restrictions filed in an office
of record, binding the owner and his heirs or assigns to maintain
the required number of spaces throughout the life of such use.
5. All parking spaces and means of access, other than those relating
to a dwelling, shall be adequately illuminated during night hours
of use. The illumination must be designed and located so that the
light sources are shielded form adjoining residences and public and
private streets. The illumination shall not be of excessive brightness
and shall not produce a glare noxious at or beyond the boundaries
of the parking area.
6. The surface of all parking areas shall consist of an asphaltic or
portland cement binder pavement (or similar durable and dustless surface)
and shall be graded to provide convenient vehicular access and proper
drainage. The maximum grade of the parking area shall not exceed 5%.
Surface water shall not discharge onto public sidewalks or other premises.
7. No areas necessary to fulfill the off-street parking requirements
of this chapter shall be used for the sales, dead storage, repair,
dismantling or servicing of vehicles.
8. Off-street parking facilities existing at the effective date of this
chapter shall not be subsequently reduced to an amount less than that
required under this chapter for a similar new building or use.
9. When the required number of parking spaces is computed and a fraction
of a parking space results, any fraction below 1/4 may be disregarded
and any fraction over 1/4 shall necessitate the provision of a full
parking space.
10. Off-street parking requirements shall be as follows:
Residential uses
|
2 parking spaced per dwelling unit*
|
Industrial, wholesaling or warehouse establishment
|
1 space per 2 employees on the combined employment of the 2
largest successive shifts
|
Restaurant, tavern or similar use
|
1 space for each 3 seats, plus 1 space for each full-time employee
on the largest shift
|
Retail and service establishments
|
1 space for each 150 square feet of gross floor area
|
Office buildings
|
1 space for each 200 square feet of gross floor area
|
Motel, hotel, tourist or rooming home or similar establishment
|
1 space for each rental unit, plus 1 space for each employee
|
Medical, dental and paramedical offices and clinics
|
5 spaces for each person engaged in practice, plus 1 space for
each employee
|
Nursing home, convalescent home or home for the aging
|
1 space for each employee, plus 1 space for each 3 beds
|
Hospital
|
1 1/2 spaces per bed
|
Funeral home
|
1 space for each 3 seats
|
Roadside farm stand
|
Not less than 5 spaces
|
Drive-in eating establishment (no indoor seating provided)
|
1 space for each 1,000 square feet of lot area, the required
number of space not to exceed 20
|
Bowling alley
|
5 spaces per alley
|
Auditorium, sports arena, theater, municipal building, place
of worship, club or lodge or other place of public assemblage
|
1 space for every 3 seats
|
Library or museum
|
1 space per 300 square feet of gross floor area
|
Nursery schools
|
1 space per employee, plus 1 space for loading and unloading
of children for each 5 children accommodated in the school
|
Elementary and junior high schools
|
1 space per employee
|
High schools
|
1 space per 4 students
|
Skating rink, swimming pool, dance hall, indoor recreational
establishment
|
1 space per 50 square feet devoted to patron use
|
Driving ranges and miniature golf
|
1 space for each tee
|
Service station
|
2 spaces for each service bay
|
Trailer or monument sales
|
1 space for each 500 square feet of lot area
|
Auction
|
1 space for each 500 square feet of lot area
|
Automobile sales and service garage
|
1 space for each 400 square feet of floor area
|
*
|
Off-street parking spaces in private garages shall not be included
as meeting this minimum requirement
|
11. For any building or use not covered above, the Zoning Officer shall
apply the standard for off-street parking spaces in the above schedule
deemed to most closely approximate the proposed building use.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Private driveways on corner lots shall be located at least 40 feet
from the point of intersection of the nearest street curblines.
2. No driveway shall be less than 10 feet in width.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Trucks and trailers may be parked in residential districts, provided
that there shall be not more than one truck or one trailer parked
on any residential zone lot; and provided further that any such vehicle
parked on a residential zone lot shall conform with the following
requirements:
A. No such vehicle shall be visible from a public right-of-way.
B. The motor of such vehicle shall not be left running for more than
one hour during any twenty-four-hour period.
C. No refrigeration units on such vehicles shall be operated on a residential
zone lot.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
Automotive vehicles or vehicular dwellings of any type without
current license plates shall not be parked or stored in S-1, A-1,
and R-1 Districts other than in completely enclosed accessory buildings.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
No major recreational equipment (including boats and boat trailers,
travel trailers, pickup campers or coaches, motorized dwellings, tent
trailers and the like, and cases or boxes used for transporting recreational
equipment) shall be parked or stored on any lot in an R-1 District
except in a carport or enclosed building or in a rear yard. No such
equipment shall be used for permanent living, sleeping or housekeeping
purposes when parked or stored in any location not approved for such
use.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Registration. In order to facilitate the administration of this chapter,
the Zoning Officer shall maintain an accurate listing of these nonconforming
uses which are not permitted as a use by right in the district in
which they are located and for which no special exception or variance
has been granted. Such listing shall be a matter of public record
and shall constitute sufficient notice to any transferee acquiring
any right to use or own such property.
2. Abandonment. No nonconforming use may be reestablished if the use
is discontinued for a continuous twelve-month period. Vacation of
land or buildings or the nonoperative status of the use normally carried
on upon the property shall be evidence of discontinuance.
3. Continuation. Any lawful use of a building or land existing at the
effective date of this chapter may be continued although such use
does not conform to the provisions of this chapter.
4. Change. No nonconforming use shall be changed to a use permitted
in less restrictive zone than the zone in which the current use is
first permitted. The most restrictive zone is the S-1 Zone. All other
zones are less restrictive, in the following order: R-1, A-1, C-1,
C-2 and I-1.
5. Expansion.
A. No nonconforming use shall be enlarged or increased upon ground not
owned, leased or under option to purchase at the time of the passage
of this chapter.
B. No nonconforming use shall be enlarged or increased in a manner which
will further violate any yard, area and height regulations imposed
by the zoning district in which it is located.
C. No nonconforming use shall be expanded by more than 25% of the building
floor area used at the time this chapter became effective.
D. The proposed expansion shall not cause an increased detrimental effect
on surrounding properties.
6. Damage or Destruction.
A. A nonconforming building wholly or partially destroyed by fire, explosion,
flood or other phenomenon, or legally condemned, may be reconstructed
and used for the same nonconforming use, provided that:
(1)
The reconstructed building shall not exceed in height, area
and volume the building reconstruction which legally existed prior
to its damage or construction. The reconstruction shall be commenced
within one year from the date the building was destroyed or condemned
and shall be carried on without interruption.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Lot Included in Approved Plans. Any lot shown on a subdivision plan
which has been recorded or approved either preliminary or finally
by the Township authorities on the effective date of this chapter
which does not meet the minimum area and size requirements of the
zoning district in which it is located may be used for any use permitted
in that district, provided that all yard, height and open space requirements
shall be met. The Zoning Hearing Board may grant a variance from the
yard and open space requirements as long as water supply and sewage
disposal facilities have been certified as adequate by the Township
Engineer; provided, however, that no land shall be hereafter subdivided
to create a nonconforming lot.
2. Lots Held in Single and Separate Ownership. Any lot held in single and separate ownership at the effective date of this chapter which does not meet the minimum area and size requirements of the zoning district in which it is located may be used for any use permitted in that district, provided that all yard, height and open spaces requirements are met. If the plans for the proposed use shall be approved by the Zoning Hearing Board, after review of such plans to assure reasonable compliance with the spirit of the zoning regulations for the district, and the water supply and sewage disposal facilities are certified as adequate by the Township Engineer, a variance from the yard and open space requirements may be granted; provided, however, that the Zoning Hearing Board makes its findings in accordance with the provisions of §
27-706 hereof.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
The restrictions of this chapter shall not apply to any existing
or proposed building or extension thereof used by any public utility
corporation, if upon petition of the corporation, the Public Utility
Commission shall, after a public hearing, decide that the present
or proposed situation of the building in question is reasonably necessary
for the convenience or welfare of the public.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. On a corner lot, no wall, fence or other structure may be erected
or altered, and no hedge, tree, shrub or other growth shall be maintained
which may cause danger to the drivers or vehicles on a public road
by obscuring the driver's view.
2. Clear sight-triangles shall be provided at all street intersections.
Within such triangle, no object shall be permitted which obscures
vision above the height of three feet and below 10 feet, measured
from the center line grade of intersecting streets. Such triangles
shall be established from a distance of 75 feet from the point of
intersection of the center lines of the intersecting streets.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. No structure shall be erected on any site having a grade of 15% or
more, except as follows:
A. Application shall be made to the Zoning Hearing Board. Such application
shall consist of a statement prepared by a registered architect or
a licensed engineer, describing the proposed method of mitigating
the development constraints of such a steep slope and certifying as
to the efficacy of such a procedure regarding such concerns as foundation
and other structural problems, prevention of soil erosion, and maintenance
of the natural watershed.
B. Uses Permitted by Right.
(1)
Parks and outdoor recreational uses when permitted by the prevailing
zoning district regulations and carried out in accordance with the
regulations of the prevailing zoning district.
(2)
Open areas or yards, subject to the restrictions of this chapter.
(3)
Buildings permitted by the prevailing zoning district regulations,
provided that no portion of the building is constructed on a slope
whose grade exceeds 25%.
(4)
Agricultural uses when conducted in conformance with conservation
practices that ensure sufficient protection against soil erosion,
and when permitted by the prevailing zoning district regulations and
carried out in accordance with the regulations of the prevailing zoning
district.
(5)
Woodland preserve, wildlife sanctuary, game preserve or other
similar use when permitted by prevailing zoning district regulations
and carried out in accordance with the regulations of the prevailing
zoning district.
C. Uses by Special Exception. Buildings constructed on a grade exceeding
25% and constructed in accordance with the regulations of the prevailing
zoning district, provided that the applicant submits to the Zoning
Hearing Board for review a statement prepared by a registered architect
with an explanation of the building methods to be used in overcoming
foundation and other structural problems, and including an explanation
of the manner by which the natural watershed will be maintained and
soil erosion prevented.
D. Boundary Disputes and Procedures.
(1)
Should a dispute concerning the boundaries of those areas subject
to slope controls arise, an initial determination of the boundaries
shall be made by the Zoning Officer, using the criterion listed in
Subsection 1A, above.
(2)
Any person aggrieved by this decision, claiming that the criterion
listed in Subsection 1A, above, is incorrect, may appeal to the Zoning
Hearing Board.
(3)
The burden of proof shall be on the person appealing the decision
of the Zoning Officer.
(4)
If it is determined that the soil survey maps are inaccurate
regarding the land in question, and that the area in question should
not be subject to slope controls, the Zoning Officer shall be notified
that slope controls will not apply to the land in question.
(5)
All boundary changes which are approved shall be made on the
map of areas subject to slope controls which is maintained by the
Township Planning Commission and the Zoning Officer.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. General Provisions.
A. Purpose. The purpose of these provisions is to prevent the loss of
property and life, the creation of health and safety hazards, the
disruption of commerce and governmental services, the extraordinary
and unnecessary expenditure of public funds for flood protection and
relief, and the impairment of the tax base by:
(1)
Regulating uses, activities and development which acting alone
or in combination with other existing of future uses, activities and
development will cause unacceptable increases in flood heights, velocities
and frequencies.
(2)
Restricting or prohibiting certain uses, activities and development
from locating within areas subject to flood.
(3)
Requiring all those uses, activities and developments that do
occur in flood-prone areas to be protected and/or floodproofed against
flooding and flood damage.
(4)
Protecting individuals from buying lands and structures which
are unsuitable for intended purposes because of flood hazards.
B. Applicability. These provisions shall apply to all lands within the
jurisdiction of Sugarloaf Township and shown as being located within
the boundaries of the designated floodplain districts which are considered
as a part of the Official Zoning Map.
C. Compliance. No structure or land shall hereafter be used and no structure
shall be located, relocated, constructed, reconstructed, enlarged
or structurally altered except in full compliance with the terms and
provisions of this chapter and any other applicable ordinances of
the Township.
D. Warning and Disclaimer of Liability. The degree of flood protection
sought by the provisions of this chapter is considered reasonable
for regulatory purposes and is based on acceptable engineering methods
of study. Larger floods may occur on rare occasions. Flood heights
may be increased by man-made or natural causes, such as ice jams and
bridge openings restricted by debris. This chapter does not imply
that areas outside the floodplain districts or that land uses permitted
within such districts will be free from flooding or flood damage.
This chapter shall not create liability on the part of Sugarloaf Township
or any administrative decision lawfully made hereunder.
2. Definitions. As used in this section, except where the context clearly
indicate otherwise, the following words or phrases shall have the
meanings indicated below:
100-YEAR FLOOD
A flood that, on the average, is likely to occur once every
100 years (i.e., that has a 1% chance of occurring each year, although
the flood may occur in any year.)
COMPLETELY DRY SPACE
A space which will remain totally dry during flooding; the
structure is designed and constructed to prevent the passage of water
and water vapor.
DEVELOPMENT
Any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate,
including, but not limited to, buildings or other structures, the
placement of mobile homes, streets and other paving, utilities, filling,
grading, excavating, mining, dredging or drilling operations, and
the subdivision of land.
ESSENTIALLY DRY SPACE
A space which will remain dry during flooding, except for
the passage of water vapor or minor seepage; the structure is substantially
impermeable to the passage of water.
FLOOD
A temporary inundation of normally dry land areas.
FLOODPLAIN
A.
A relatively flat or low land area adjoining a river, stream,
or watercourse which is subject to partial or complete inundation.
B.
An area subject to the unusual and rapid accumulation or runoff
of surface waters from any source.
FLOODPLAIN DISTRICTS
Those floodplain districts specifically designated on the
Sugarloaf Township FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Map as being inundated
primarily by the 100-year flood. Included are areas identified as
Floodway District (FW), Flood-Fringe District (FF) and General Floodplain
District (FA).
FLOODPROOFING
Any combination of structural and nonstructural additions,
changes or adjustments which reduces or eliminates flood damage to
real estate or improved real property, water and sanitary facilities,
structures, and their contents.
LOWEST FLOOR
The lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area (including basement).
An unfinished or flood-resistant enclosure, usable solely for parking
of vehicles, building access or storage, in an area other than a basement
area, is not considered a building's lowest floor, provided that such
enclosure is not built so as to render the structure in violation
of the applicable nonelevation design requirements of this section.
MANUFACTURED HOME
A structure, transportable in one or more sections, which
is built on a permanent chassis and is designed for use with or without
a permanent foundation when connected to the required utilities. For
floodplain management purposes, the term "manufactured home" also
includes park trailers, travel trailers and other similar vehicles
placed on a site for greater than 180 consecutive days. For insurance
purposes, the term "manufactured home" does not include park trailers,
travel trailers and other similar vehicles.
OBSTRUCTIONS
Any wall, dam, wharf, embankment, levee, dike, pile abutment,
projection, excavation, channel, rectification, culvert, building,
fence, stockpile, refuse, fill, structure or matter in, along, across,
or projecting into any channel, watercourse of designated floodplain
district which may impede, retard or change the direction of the flow
of water either by itself or by catching or collecting debris carried
by such water or is placed where the flow of the water might carry
the same downstream to the damage of life and property.
START OF CONSTRUCTION
For other than new construction or substantial improvements
under the Coastal Barrier Resources Act (P.L. 97-348), includes substantial improvement, and means the date the
building permit was issued, provided the actual start of construction,
repair, reconstruction, placement or other improvement was within
180 days of the permit date. The actual start means either the first
placement of permanent construction of a structure on a site, such
as the pouring of slab or footings, the installation of piles, the
construction of columns, or any work beyond the stage of excavation;
or the placement of a manufactured home on a foundation. Permanent
construction does not include land preparation, such as clearing,
grading and filling; nor does it include the installation of streets
and/or walkways; nor does it include excavation for a basement, footings,
piers or foundations nor the erection of temporary forms; nor does
it include the installation on the property of accessory buildings,
such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling units or not part
of the main structure.
3. Establishment of Zoning Districts.
A. Description of District.
(1)
Basis of District. The various floodplain districts shall include
areas subject to inundation by waters of the 100-year flood. The basis
for the delineation of these districts shall be the FIRM Flood Insurance
Rate Map for Sugarloaf Township prepared by the Federal Insurance
Administration.
(a)
The Floodway District (FW) is delineated for the purpose of
this chapter using criteria that a certain area within the floodplain
must be capable of carrying the waters of the 100-year flood without
increasing the water surface elevation of that flood more than one-foot
at any point. The areas included in this district are specifically
defined in the Floodway Data Table of the above-referenced Flood Insurance
Study and shown on the accompanying FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Map
on file in the Sugarloaf Township Municipal Building.
(b)
The Flood Fringe District (FF) shall be that area of the 100-year
floodplain not included in the Floodway District. The basis for the
outermost boundary of this district shall be the 100-year flood elevations
contained in the flood profiles of the above-referenced Flood Insurance
Study as shown on the accompanying FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Map on
file in the Sugarloaf Township Municipal Building.
(c)
The General Floodplain District (FA) shall be that floodplain
area for which no detailed flood profiles or elevations have been
provided. They are shown on the maps accompanying the Flood Insurance
Study prepared by the Flood Insurance Administration. Where the specific
100-year flood elevation cannot be determined for this area using
other sources of data such as the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Floodplain
Information Reports, U.S. Geological Survey – Floodprone Quadrangles,
etc., then the applicant for the proposed use, development or activity
shall determine this elevation in accordance with hydrologic and hydraulic
analyses shall be undertaken only by professional engineers or others
of demonstrated qualifications, who shall certify that the technical
methods used correctly reflect currently accepted technical concepts.
Studies, analyses, computations, etc., shall be submitted in sufficient
detail to allow a thorough technical review by Sugarloaf Township.
(2)
Overlay Concept.
(a)
The floodplain districts described above shall be overlays to
the existing underlying districts as shown on the Official Zoning
Ordinance Map, and as such, the provisions for the floodplain districts
shall serve as supplements to the underlying district provisions.
(b)
Where conflict exists between the provisions or requirements
of any of the floodplain districts and those of any underlying district,
the more restrictive provisions shall apply.
(c)
In the event any provision concerning a floodplain district
is declared inapplicable as a result of legislative, administrative
or judicial action, the basic underlying district provisions shall
remain in effect.
B. FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Map. The boundaries of the floodplain districts
are established on the FIRM Flood Insurance Rate Map which is declared
to be part of this chapter and which shall be kept on file at the
Township Office.
C. District Boundary Changes. The boundaries of any of the floodplains
districts may be revised by the Board of Supervisors where a natural
or man-made changes have occurred and/or more detailed studies conducted
or undertaken by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, a river basin commission
or other qualified agency or individual document such changes. However,
prior to any such revision, approval must be obtained from the Federal
Insurance Administration.
D. Interpretation of District.
(1)
Initial determination of the boundaries of the floodplain districts
shall be made by the Zoning Officer.
(2)
Any person aggrieved by his decision may appeal to the Zoning
Hearing Board.
(3)
The burden of proof shall be on the applicant.
(4)
If it is determined that the boundaries of the floodplain districts
are incorrect regarding the land in question, the area subject to
floodway control shall be determined on the basis of a 100-year flood
and all calculations shall be subject to approval by the Township
Engineer.
4. District Provisions.
A. General. All uses, activities and development proposed within the
floodplain districts shall be undertaken only in strict compliance
with the provisions of this chapter and all other applicable ordinances
of the Township, the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and the United States
government. Prior to any proposed alteration or relocation of any
stream or watercourse, a permit shall be obtained from the Pennsylvania
Department of Environmental Protection, Dam Safety, Obstructions and
Stormwater Management Division. Furthermore, notification of the proposal
shall be given by the applicant to Sugarloaf Township and all affected
adjacent municipalities, and copies of such notification shall be
forwarded by the applicant to the Pennsylvania Department of Community
and Economic Development and the Federal Insurance Administration.
(1)
Uses Permitted by Right.
(a)
Agricultural uses when permitted by the prevailing zoning district
regulations according to recognized soil conservation practice.
(b)
Woodland preserve, wildlife sanctuary, game preserve, fish hatchery
or other use devoted to the protection and propagation of wildlife,
when permitted by the prevailing zoning district regulations.
(c)
Open areas or yards, subject to the restrictions of this chapter
and provided such yards are not used for on lot sewage disposal systems.
(2)
Uses Permitted by Special Exception.
(a)
Outlet installations for sewage treatment plants or sewage pumping
stations.
(b)
Public or private recreational areas, such as parks, picnic
grounds, riding trails, biking trails, camps, boating and fishing,
not to include enclosed structures, except toilet facilities which
must be connected to public water and sewer systems, when permitted
by the prevailing zoning district regulations and in accordance with
the regulations of the prevailing zoning district.
B. Flood Fringe District (FF). In the Flood Fringe District, the development
and use of land shall be permitted in accordance with the regulations
of the underlying district, provided that all such uses, activities
and development shall be undertaken in strict compliance with the
floodproofing and related provisions contained in this chapter.
C. General Floodplain District (FA). In the General Floodplain District,
the development and use of land shall be permitted in accordance with
the regulations of the underlying district, provided that all such
uses, activities and development shall be undertaken in strict compliance
with the floodproofing and related provision contained in this chapter.
5. Special Exceptions and Variances.
A. In passing upon applications for special exceptions and variances,
the Zoning Hearing Board shall consider all relevant factors and procedures
specified in other sections of this chapter and the following:
(1)
The danger of life and property due to increased flood heights
or velocities caused by encroachments. No special exception or variance
shall be granted for any proposed use, development or activity that
will cause any increase in flood levels in the Floodway District.
(2)
The danger that materials may be swept onto other lands or downstream
to the injury of others.
(3)
The proposed water supply and sanitation systems and the ability
of these systems to prevent disease, contamination and unsanitary
conditions.
(4)
The susceptibility of the proposed facility and its contents
to flood damage and the effect of such damage on the individual owners.
(5)
The importance of the services provided by the proposed facility
to the community.
(6)
The requirements of the facility for a waterfront location.
(7)
The availability of alternative locations not subject to flooding
for the proposed use.
(8)
The compatibility of the proposed use with existing development
and development anticipated in the foreseeable future.
(9)
The relationship of the proposed use to the Comprehensive Plan
and floodplain management program for the area.
(10)
The safety of access to the property in times of flood for ordinary
and emergency vehicles.
(11)
The expected height, velocity, duration, rate of rise and sediment
transport of the floodwaters expected at the site.
B. The Zoning Hearing Board may refer any application and accompanying
documentation pertaining to any request for a special exception or
variance to the Township Engineer or other qualified person or agency
for technical assistance in evaluating the proposed project. Special
exceptions or variances shall only be granted after the Zoning Hearing
Board has determined that the granting of such will not result in:
(1)
Unacceptable or prohibited increase in flood heights.
(2)
Additional threats to public safety.
(3)
Extraordinary public expense.
6. Administration. In order to prevent excessive damage to buildings
and structures due to flooding, the following provisions shall apply
to all proposed construction or development occurring in any of the
floodplain districts designated in this section:
A. General.
(1)
Residential Structures. Within any designated Floodway, Flood
Fringe or General Floodplain District, the lowest floor (including
basement) of any new or improved residential structure shall be at
least 1 1/2 feet above the 100-year flood elevation.
(2)
Nonresidential Structures. Within any designated Floodway, Flood
Fringe or General Floodplain District, the lowest floor (including
basement) of any new or improved nonresidential structure shall be
at least 1 1/2 feet above the 100-year flood elevation or be
designed and constructed so that the space enclosed by such structure
shall remain either completely or essentially dry during any flood
up to that height. Any structure or part thereof which will not be
completely or adequately elevated shall be designed and constructed
to be completely or essentially dry in accordance with the standards
contained in the publication entitled "Floodproofing Regulations"
(U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, June, 1972) or some other equivalent
standard for that type of construction.
(3)
The local administrator shall obtain, review and reasonably
utilize any base flood elevation and floodway data available from
a federal, state or other source, as criteria for requiring that new
construction, substantial improvements or other development in Zone
A comply with the requirements of this section.
(4)
All new construction and substantial improvements and any fully
enclosed area below the lowest floor that is subject to flooding shall
be designed to automatically equalize hydrostatic flood forces on
exterior walls by allowing for the entry and exit of floodwaters.
Designs for meeting this requirement must either be certified by a
registered professional engineer or architect or meet or exceed the
following minimum criteria: A minimum of two openings having a total
net area of not less than one square inch for every square foot of
enclosed area subject to flooding shall be provided. The bottom of
all openings shall be no higher than one foot above grade. Openings
may be equipped with screens, louvers, valves or other coverings or
devices, provided that they permit the automatic entry and exit of
flood waters.
B. Design and Construction Standards.
(1)
Drainage Facilities. Storm drainage facilities shall be designed
to convey the flow of stormwater runoff in a safe and efficient manner.
The system shall ensure drainage at all points along streets and provide
positive drainage away from buildings. The system shall also be designed
to prevent the discharge of excess runoff onto adjacent properties.
(2)
Sanitary Sewer Facilities. All new or replacement sanitary sewer
facilities and private sewage treatment plants (including all pumping
stations and collector systems) shall be designed to minimize or eliminate
infiltration of floodwaters into the system and discharges from the
system into the floodwaters. In addition, they shall be located and
constructed to minimize flood damage and impairment.
(3)
Water Facilities. All new or replacement water facilities shall
be designed to minimize or eliminate infiltration of floodwaters in
the systems and shall be located and constructed to minimize or eliminate
flood damage.
(4)
Streets. The finished elevation of proposed new streets shall
be no more than one foot below the regulatory flood elevation.
(5)
Utilities. All utilities such as gas lines and electrical and
telephone systems being placed in flood-prone areas shall be located,
elevated (where possible) and constructed to minimize the chance of
impairment during a flood.
(6)
Fill. If fill is used, it shall:
(a)
Extend laterally at least 15 feet beyond the building line from
all points.
(b)
Consist of soil or small rock materials only; sanitary landfills
shall not be permitted.
(c)
Be compacted to provide the necessary permeability and resistance
to erosion, scouring or settling.
(d)
Be no steeper than one vertical or two horizontal unless information
justifying steeper slopes is submitted to and approved by appropriate
Township officials.
(e)
Be used to the extent to which it does not adversely affect
adjacent properties.
(7)
Placement of Buildings or Structures. All buildings and structures
shall be constructed and placed on the lots so as to offer the least
obstruction to the flow of water.
(8)
Anchoring. All buildings and structures shall be firmly anchored
in accordance with accepted engineering practices to prevent flotation,
collapse or other movement, thus reducing the threat to life and property
and decreasing the possibility of the blockage of bridge openings
and other restricted sections of the watercourse. All air ducts, large
pipes and storage tanks located at or below the regulatory flood elevation
shall be firmly anchored in accordance with accepted engineering practices
to prevent flotation.
(9)
Floors, Walls and Ceilings. Where located at or below the regulatory
flood elevation:
(a)
Wood flooring shall be installed to accommodate a lateral expansion
of the flooring, perpendicular to the flooring grain, without causing
structural damage to the building.
(b)
Plywood shall be of an exterior or marine grade and of a water-resistant
or waterproof variety.
(c)
Walls and ceilings in nonresidential structures shall have sufficient
wet strength and be so installed as to survive inundation.
(d)
Window frames, door frames, door jambs and other components
shall be constructed of metal or other water-resistant material.
(10)
Electrical System.
(a)
All electrical water heaters, electric furnaces, electric air-conditioning
and ventilation systems and other electrical equipment or apparatus
shall be permitted only at elevations above the regulatory flood elevation.
(b)
No electrical distribution panels shall be allowed at an elevation
less than three feet above the level of the 100-year flood elevation.
(c)
Separate electrical circuits shall be serve lower levels and
shall be dropped from above.
(11)
Plumbing.
(a)
Water heaters, furnaces and other mechanical equipment or apparatus
shall be permitted only at elevations above the regulatory flood elevation.
(b)
No part of any on-site sewage disposal system shall be constructed
within any designated floodplain districts.
(c)
Water supply systems and sanitary sewage systems shall be designed
to preclude infiltration of floodwaters into the system and discharges
from the system into floodwaters.
(d)
All gas and oil supply systems shall be designed to preclude
the infiltration of floodwaters into the systems and discharges from
the systems into floodwaters.
(12)
Paints and Adhesives. Where located at or below the regulatory
flood elevation:
(a)
Adhesives shall have a bonding strength that is unaffected by
inundation (i.e., marine or water-resistant quality).
(b)
All wooden components (doors, trim, cabinets, etc.) shall be
sealed with a marine or water-resistant quality or similar product.
(c)
Paints and other finishes shall be capable of surviving inundation
(i.e., marine or water-resistant quality).
(13)
Storage. No materials that are buoyant, flammable, explosive
or in time of flooding could be injurious to human, animal or plant
life shall be stored below the regulatory flood elevation.
C. Manufactured Homes.
(1)
All manufactured homes and any additions thereto shall be anchored
to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral movement by providing over-the-top
and frame ties to ground anchors as follows:
(a)
Over-the-top ties at each of the four corners of the manufactured
home, with two additional ties per side at intermediate locations
for units 50 feet or more in length, and one additional tie per side
for units less than 50 feet in length.
(b)
Frame ties at each corner of the manufactured home, with five
additional ties per side at intermediate locations for units 50 feet
or more in length, and four additional ties per side for units less
than 50 feet in length.
(c)
All components of the anchoring system shall be capable of carrying
a force of 4,800 pounds per square inch.
(2)
All manufactured homes and any additions thereto shall also
be elevated in accordance with the following requirements:
(a)
The stands or lots shall be elevated on compacted fill or on
pilings so that the lowest floor of the manufactured home will be
at or above the regulatory flood elevation.
(b)
Adequate surface drainage shall be provided.
(c)
Adequate access for a hauler shall be provided.
(d)
Where pilings are used for elevation, the lots shall be large
enough to permit steps; piling foundations shall be placed in stable
soil to more than 10 feet apart; reinforcement shall be provided for
pilings that will extend for six feet or more above the ground level.
(3)
An evacuation plan indicating alternate vehicular access and
escape routes for manufactured home parks and manufactured home subdivisions
shall be filed with Township officials.
(4)
No manufactured home shall be placed in any Floodway District
(FW).
D. Existing Structures in Designated Floodplain Districts. Structures
existing in any designated floodplain district prior to May 27, 1980,
but which are not in compliance with these provisions may continue
to remain subject to the following:
(1)
Existing structures located in a designated Floodway District
(FW) shall not be expanded or enlarged unless the effect of the proposed
expansion or enlargement on flood heights is fully offset by accompanying
improvements.
(2)
Any modification, alteration, reconstruction or improvement
of any kind to an existing structure, to an extent or amount of less
than 50% of its market value, need not comply with the provisions
of Subsection 6B of this section relating to design and construction
standards, but said modification, alteration, reconstruction or improvement
shall be undertaken with a good-faith effort to elevate or floodproof
the structure to the greatest extent possible.
(3)
Any modification, alteration, reconstruction or improvement
of any kind to an existing structure, to an extent or amount of 50%
or more of its market value shall be undertaken only in full compliance
with the provisions of this chapter.
(4)
All manufactured homes to be placed or substantially improved
within Zones A1-30, AH and AE shall be elevated on a permanent foundation
such that the lowest floor of the manufactured home is at or above
the base flood elevation and be securely anchored in accordance with
the provisions of this section.
E. Variances.
(1)
If compliance with the elevation or floodproofing requirements
stated above would result in an exceptional hardship for a prospective
builder, developer or landowner, upon application, the Zoning Hearing
Board may grant relief from the strict application of the requirements.
In so doing, consideration shall be given to their effect upon the
flow and the height of the floodwaters.
(2)
In addition to those considerations set forth in Subsection
5 of this section, requests for variances may be granted in accordance with the following criteria:
(a)
No variances shall be granted for any construction, development,
use or activity within any designated Floodway District (FW) that
would cause any increase in the 100-year flood elevation.
(b)
In granting any variance, the Zoning Hearing Board may attach
whatever reasonable conditions and safeguards it considers necessary
in order to protect the public health, safety and welfare, and to
achieve the objectives of this chapter.
(c)
Whenever a variance is granted, the Zoning Hearing Board shall
notify the applicant, in writing, that the granting of the variance
may result in increased premium rates for flood insurance and that
it may increase the risk to life and property.
(3)
Notwithstanding any of the above, however, all structures shall
be designed and constructed so as to have the capability of resisting
the hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and pressures and effects of
buoyancy of the 100-year flood.
F. Building Permit Applications.
(1)
In addition to that information normally required under this
chapter in an application for a building permit, where construction
is contemplated in a designated floodplain district, the Zoning Officer
shall require the following specific information to be included as
part of the application:
(a)
Existing and proposed contours and/or elevation of the ground
and the lowest floor of proposed construction.
(b)
One-hundred-year flood elevations.
(c)
Other associated factors such as pressure and impact forces.
(f)
Location and elevations of streets, water supply and sanitary
facilities.
(h)
Floodproofing measures, including specific reference to the
level of floodproofing in relation to the 100-year flood.
(2)
A document, certified by a registered professional engineer
or architect, which states that the proposed construction has been
adequately designed to withstand the flood depths, pressures, velocities,
impact and uplift forces, and other hydrostatic, hydrodynamic and
buoyancy factors associated with the 100-year flood shall be attached
to the application for building permit.
(3)
A copy of all applications and plans for construction or development
in any designated floodplain district shall be submitted by the Zoning
Officer to the County Conservation District for review and comment
prior to the issuance of a building permit.
(4)
Prior to the issuance of any building permit, the Zoning Officer
shall review the application to determine if all other necessary governmental
permits such as those required by state and federal law have been
obtained. No permit shall be issued until this determination has been
made.
7. Development Which May Endanger Human Life.
A. The provisions of this subsection shall be applicable, in addition
to any other applicable provisions of this chapter.
B. In accordance with the Pennsylvania Flood Plain Management Act, and the regulations adopted by the Department of Community
and Economic Development as required by the Act, any new or substantially
improved structure which will be used for the production or storage
of any of the following dangerous materials or substances, will be
used for any activity requiring the maintenance of a supply of more
than 550 gallons or other comparable volume of any of the following
dangerous materials or substances on the premises or will involve
the production, storage or use of any amount of radioactive substances
shall be subject to the provisions of this section, in addition to
all other applicable provisions. The following list of materials and
substances are considered dangerous to human life:
(11)
Nitric acid and oxides of nitrogen.
(12)
Petroleum products (gasoline, fuel oil, etc.).
(16)
Sulfur and sulfur products.
(17)
Pesticides (including insecticides, fungicides and rodenticides).
(18)
Radioactive substances, insofar as such substances are not otherwise
regulated.
C. Within any Floodway District, any structure of any kind described
in Subsection 7B, above, shall be prohibited.
D. Where permitted within Flood Fringe District or General Floodplain
District, any structure of the kind described in Subsection 7B, above,
shall be:
(1)
Elevated or designed and constructed to remain completely dry
up to at least 1 1/2 feet above the 100-year flood.
(2)
Designed to prevent pollution from the structure or activity
during the course of a 100-year flood. Any such structure, or part
thereof, that will be built below the regulatory flood elevation shall
be designed and constructed in accordance with the standards for completely
dry floodproofing contained in the publication "Flood-Proofing Regulations"
(U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, June 1972), or with some other equivalent
watertight standard.
E. Within any tract, any structure of the kind described in Subsection
7B, above, shall be prohibited within the area measured 50 feet landward
from the top-of-bank of any watercourse.
F. Except for a possible modification of the freeboard requirements
involved, no variance shall be granted for any of the other requirements
of this subsection.
8. Activities Requiring Special Permits.
A. The provisions of this subsection shall be applicable, in addition
to any other applicable provision of this chapter.
B. Identification of Activities Requiring a Special Permit. In accordance
with the Pennsylvania Flood Plain Management Act (Act 1978-166) and regulations adopted by the Department of Community
and Economic Development as required by the Act, the following obstructions
and activities are permitted only by special permit, if located partially
or entirely within any floodplain district:
(1)
The commencement of any of the following activities; or the
construction, enlargement or expansion of any structure used, or intended
to be used, or intended to be used, for any of the following activities:
(2)
The commencement of or any construction of a new manufactured
home park or manufactured subdivision, or substantial development
to such existing development.
C. Application Requirements. Applicants for special permits shall provide
five copies of the following items.
(1)
A written request, including a completed building permit application
form.
(2)
A small-scale map showing the vicinity in which the proposed
site is located.
(3)
A plan of the entire site, clearly and legibly drawn at a scale
of one inch being equal to 100 feet or less, showing the following:
(a)
North arrow, scale and date.
(b)
Topography based upon the National Geodetic Vertical Datum of
1929, showing existing and proposed contours at intervals of two feet.
(c)
All property and lot lines, including dimensions, and the size
of the site expressed in acres or square feet.
(d)
The location of all existing streets, drives, other accessways
and parking areas, with information concerning widths, pavement types
and construction, and elevations.
(e)
The location of any existing bodies of water or watercourses,
buildings, structures and other public or private facilities, including
railroad tracks and facilities, and any other natural man-made features
affected by the proposed activity of development.
(f)
The location of the floodplain boundary line, information and
spot elevations concerning the 100-year flood elevations, and information
concerning the flow of water, including direction and velocities.
(g)
The location of all proposed buildings, structures, utilities
and any other improvements.
(h)
Any other information which the Township considers necessary
for adequate review of the applications.
(4)
Plans of all proposed buildings, structures and other improvements,
clearly and legibly drawn at suitable scale, showing the following:
(a)
Sufficiently detailed architectural or engineering drawings,
including floor plans, sections and exterior buildings elevations,
as appropriate.
(b)
For any proposed buildings, the elevation of the lowest floor
(including basement) and, as required, the elevation of any other
floor.
(c)
Complete information concerning flood depths, pressures, velocities,
impact and uplift forces, and other facts associated with the 100-year
flood.
(d)
Detailed information concerning any proposed floodproofing measures.
(e)
Cross-section drawings for all proposed streets, drives, other
accessways and parking areas, showing all rights-of-way, and pavement.
(f)
Profile drawings for all proposed streets, drives and vehicular
accessways, including existing and proposed grades.
(g)
Plans and profiles of all proposed sanitary and storm sewer
system, water supply systems and any other utilities and facilities.
(5)
The following data and documentation:
(a)
Certification from the applicant that the site upon which the
activity or development is proposed is an existing separate and single
parcel, owned by the applicant or the client he represents.
(b)
Certification from a registered professional engineer, architect
or landscape architect that the proposed construction has been adequately
designed to protect against damage from the 100-year flood.
(c)
A statement certified by a registered professional engineer,
architect, landscape architect or other qualified person which contains
a complete and accurate description of the nature and extent of pollution
that might possibly occur from the development during the course of
a 100-year flood, including a statement concerning the effects such
pollution may have on human life.
(d)
A statement certified by a registered professional engineer,
architect or landscape architect which contains a complete and accurate
description of the effects the proposed development will have on 100-year
flood elevations and flows.
(e)
A statement certified by a registered professional engineer,
architect or landscape architect which contains a complete and accurate
description of the kind and amounts of any loose buoyant materials
or debris that may possibly exist or be located on the site below
the 100-year flood elevations and flows.
(f)
The appropriate component of the Department of Environmental
Protection's "Planning Module for Land Development."
(g)
Where any excavation or grading is proposed, a plan to implement
and maintain erosion and sedimentation control. Said plan shall meet
the requirements of the Department of Environmental Protection and
the Luzerne Conservation District.
(h)
Any other applicable permits such as, but not limited to, a
permit for any activity regulated by the Department of Environmental
Protection under Section 302 of Act 1978, 166.
(i)
An evacuation plan which fully explains the manner in which
the site will be safely evacuated before or during the course of a
100-year flood.
D. Application Review Procedures. Upon receipt of an application for
a special permit by the Township, the following procedures shall apply
in addition to all other applicable permit procedures which are already
established:
(1)
Within three working days following receipt of the application,
a complete copy of the application and all accompanying documentation
shall be forwarded to the County Planning Commission by registered
or certified mail for its review and recommendations. Copies of the
application shall also be forwarded to the Township Planning Commission
and Township Engineer for review and comment.
(2)
If an application is received that is incomplete, the Township
shall notify the applicant, in writing, stating in what respects the
application is deficient.
(3)
If the Township decides to disapprove an application, it shall
notify the applicant, in writing, of the reasons for the disapproval.
(4)
If the Township approves an application, it shall file written
notification, together with the application and all pertinent information,
with the Department of Community and Economic Development, by registered
mail, within five working days after the date of approval.
(5)
Before issuing the special permit, the Township shall allow
the Department of Community and Economic Development 30 days, after
receipt of the notification by the Department, to review the applications
and the decision made by the Township.
(6)
If the Township does not receive any communication from the
Department of Community and Economic Development during the 30 days
review period, it may issue a special permit to the applicant.
(7)
If the Department of Community and Economic Development should
decide to disapprove and application, it shall notify the Township
and the applicant, in writing, of the reasons for the disapproval,
and the Township shall not issue the special permit.
E. Technical Requirements for Development Requiring a Special Permit.
In addition to any other applicable requirements, the following provisions
shall also apply to the activities requiring a special permit. If
there is any conflict between any of the following requirements or
other applicable provisions, the more restrictive provision shall
apply.
(1)
No application for a special permit shall be approved unless
it can be determined that the structure or activity will be located,
constructed and maintained in a manner which will:
(a)
Fully protect the health and safety of the general public and
any occupants of the structure. At a minimum, all new structures shall
be designed, located and constructed so that:
1)
The structure will survive inundation by waters of the 100-year
flood without any lateral movement or damage to either the structure
itself, or to any of its equipment or contents below the 100-year
flood elevation.
2)
The lowest floor elevation (including basements) will be at
least 1 1/2 feet above the 100-year flood elevation.
3)
The occupants of the structure can remain inside for an indefinite
period of time and be safely evacuated at any time during the 100-year
flood.
(2)
All hydrologic and hydraulic analyses shall be undertaken only
by professional engineers or others of demonstrated qualifications,
who shall certify that the technical methods used correctly reflect
currently accepted technical concepts. Studies, analyses, computations,
etc., shall be submitted in sufficient detail to allow a thorough
technical review of the Township and the Department of Community and
Economic Development.
F. Within any floodplain district any structure of the kind described
in Subsection 8B, above, shall be prohibited within the area measured
50 feet landward from the top-of-bank of any watercourse.
G. Except for a possible modification of the freeboard requirement involved,
no variance shall be granted for any of the other requirements of
this subsection.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Permitted home occupations operated in any dwelling unit may be operated
only if it complies with all of the following conditions:
A. Only a resident of the dwelling unit shall be employed to practice
an occupation carried out in any dwelling unit. Except as otherwise
provided herein, no more than two persons shall be employed by the
practitioner of the occupation to provide secretarial, clerical or
other similar assistance.
B. A home occupation may only be operated within a single dwelling unit.
C. There shall be no outside advertising other than one unanimated,
nonilluminated sign of no more than two square feet in area on any
one side.
D. Except as otherwise provided herein, there shall be not more than
one home occupation, and it shall not utilize more than 20% of the
gross floor area of the dwelling unit, (except foster family care),
and except that professional offices may utilize not more than 33%
of the gross floor area of the dwelling unit.
E. For those occupations which serve patrons, one off-street parking
space shall be provided for each 150 square feet of floor area devoted
to patron use, except in the case of dental, medical or paramedical
offices, four off-street parking spaces shall be provided for each
person engaged in dental, medical or paramedical practice.
F. No storage of materials or products in open areas shall be permitted.
G. No display of products made shall be visible from the street.
H. No noise, odor, dust, vibration, electromagnetic interference, smoke,
heat or glare shall be perceptible at or beyond the lot boundaries.
I. Permitted home occupations shall be not more than one of the following
uses:
(2)
Rooming and/or boarding of not more than two unrelated persons.
(3)
Custom dressmaking, tailoring, millinery.
(4)
Foster family care (for not more than four children simultaneously).
(5)
Commercial photography and other similar used, excluding studios
for individual and group portraits.
(6)
Barbershop and beauty parlor with not more than one nonresident
employee.
(7)
Tutoring for not more than four students simultaneously, provided
that the sound produced is not audible at any property line and that
it is clearly incidental and secondary to the use of the dwelling
unit for residential purposes.
(8)
Licensed family day-care homes for not more than six nonresident
children. No nonresident employees shall be permitted.
(9)
Antique repair and refinishing, catering, mail order, quilting,
taxidermy service, TV repairs and upholstering.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. In all residential districts, no fence or wall may be erected over
six feet in height except a retaining wall, and as required for swimming
pools. In any event, no solid fence shall exceed a height of four
feet within any required front yard. No solid fence shall exceed four
feet within a front yard, including the area along the front yard
line or the side yard lines extending from the front yard setback
line to the front property line.
2. In all agricultural districts, no fence or wall, except a retaining
wall, over 10 feet in height may be erected.
3. In all districts, no fence, wall, or hedge may be erected or planted
within the right-of-way lines of any street, nor may they encroach
upon any right-of-way at any time. Any fence or wall, except a retaining
wall, placed within the front yard of any property shall be limited
to a maximum height of four feet.
4. All stormwater detention ponds are required to be fenced with a minimum
four-foot-high, chain-linked fence with locking gate.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
On every corner lot there shall be provided a yard, equal in
depth to the front yard requirements of the particular zoning district
in which the corner lot is located, on each side of the lot which
is adjacent to a street.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Where two-family dwellings are permitted, they may be created by
converting a single-family dwelling to a two-family dwelling only
as a special exception authorized by the Zoning Hearing Board; provided,
however, that:
A. The lot area per dwelling unit shall not be reduced to less than
the minimum required in the zone where it is situated.
B. The yard and building area requirements for the subject zone shall
be maintained.
C. The minimum requirements for off-street parking shall be maintained
for each dwelling unit.
D. On-lot water and sewage.
(1)
Adequate sewage disposal and potable water supply must be provided
by utilization of the existing facilities servicing the principal
residence or installation of separate systems. If existing on-lot
facilities are to be used, the applicant shall certify that they will
be adequate for both dwellings.
(2)
If the owner has not cleaned the septic tank within the previous
24 months, he shall do so before an occupancy permit is issued.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. "Community" or "club" swimming pools shall be any pool constructed
by an association of property owners or by a private club solely for
use and enjoyment by members of the association or members and their
families and guests of members. Community and club swimming pools
shall comply with the following conditions and requirements:
A. The pool and accessory structures thereto, including the areas used
by the bathers, shall not be closer than 100 feet to any property
line of the property on which it is located.
B. The swimming pool and all of the area used by the bathers shall be
so walled or fenced as to prevent uncontrolled access by children
from the street or adjacent properties. The said fence or wall shall
not be less than six feet in height, and maintained in good condition.
The area surrounding the enclosure, except parking areas, shall be
suitably landscaped with grass, hardy shrubs and trees and maintained
in good condition.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. The minimum amount of land in the proposed development shall be five
acres.
2. The development shall be served by public or community sewage disposal
and water supply facilities.
3. The overall density of the development shall not exceed eight dwelling
units per acre.
4. Permitted uses shall include single-family detached dwellings, single-family
semidetached dwellings, two-family detached dwellings, two-family
semidetached dwellings, townhouses and apartment buildings.
5. No less than 20% of the gross land area contained within the development
shall be permanently set aside for noncommercial common open space
purposes, such as recreation or conservation of natural features.
These noncommercial common open space areas shall be suitable for
the designated purpose and contain no structure or parking facility
except as related to and incidental to open space uses. Common open
spaces shall not include land included within street rights-of-way
nor shall they include land included within building lots. No more
than 50% of the common open space shall be land with slope of over
15% subject to flooding, or with a high water table. Common open space
areas may be reserved for private use or dedicated to the Township.
For land which is not dedicated to the Township, written agreements
approved by the Township Supervisors shall be made for the perpetual
preservation and maintenance of the undedicated common open space
areas.
6. No more than 15% of those portions of the tract with a slope of between
15% and 35% shall be covered by impervious surfaces.
7. No more than 15% of those areas of the tract which have a high water
table (as mapped by the Natural Resources Conservation Service) shall
be covered by imperious surfaces.
8. A system for pedestrian circulation within the tract shall be provided.
This system shall provide access to community facilities and recreation
areas.
9. The plan for the development must be submitted to the Township Planning Commission for review and receive final approval from the Township Supervisors in accordance with the procedures established in Chapter
22, Subdivision and Land Development, of the Township Code.
10. Those areas of the tract designated for apartments shall have:
A. At least 3,630 square feet of land provided for each dwelling unit
with one bedroom.
B. At least 4,356 square feet of land provided for each dwelling unit
with two bedrooms.
C. At least 5,445 square feet of land provided for each dwelling unit
with three or more bedrooms.
12. Those areas of the tract designated for a mixture of apartments and
townhouses shall have at least 5,445 square feet of land provided
for each dwelling unit.
13. The maximum length of an apartment building shall be 200 feet.
14. No apartment building shall be closer than 50 feet to another dwelling.
15. The number of townhouse units within a continuous grouping shall
not exceed eight.
16. No townhouse within a continuous row of townhouses shall be closer
than 50 feet to a dwelling unit not in that row of townhouses.
17. Within any continuous group of townhouses, there shall be at least
two different architectural plans having substantially different designs,
building materials and exterior elevations. In addition, no more than
three continuous townhouses shall have the same front setback and
the variations in front setback shall be at least four feet.
18. All structures shall be a minimum of 50 feet from the property lines
of the development.
19. No building shall have a height exceeding 35 feet.
20. No apartment building shall be located within 50 feet of any street
of right-of-way line.
21. No townhouse shall be located within 30 feet of any street of right-of-way
line.
22. Parking shall be provided on the lot of the townhouse or in a joint
parking facility for a group of townhouses with such deed restrictions
as are necessary to determine ownership and maintenance of common
parking facilities.
23. Exterior storage areas for trash and rubbish shall be completely
screened from view on three sides, and all trash and rubbish shall
be contained in airtight, vermin-proof containers.
24. Common parking areas for townhouses or apartments shall not be designed
or located to require cars to back into streets in order to leave
the parking areas. All dead-end parking lots shall provide adequate
areas in which cars parked in the end stalls of the lots may turn
around.
25. Common parking areas and access drives for townhouses or apartments
shall be located a minimum of 20 feet from all structures and form
the exterior lot lines of the development. Common parking areas shall
be a minimum of 20 feet from all roads.
26. Entrance- and exitways to parking areas shall have a minimum width
of 12 feet for each lane of traffic entering or leaving the areas.
27. Parking areas shall be designed to prevent through traffic to other
parking areas. No more than 60 parking spaces shall be accommodated
in any one parking area, and all parking areas shall be landscaped.
28. Entrances to and exits from common parking areas shall be located
a minimum of 50 feet from the point of intersection of the nearest
street curblines.
29. Within areas designated for apartments and townhouses, impervious
coverage shall not exceed 25% of the land area.
30. The applicant shall submit a plan, at the scale of his preliminary
and final subdivision plans, to the Township Supervisors which shall
show existing natural features of the site, including soil types,
watercourses, tree masses, drainageways and slopes.
31. Regulations for single-family detached dwellings and single-family
semidetached dwellings shall be as follows:
Regulation Type
|
Single-Family Detached Dwelling
|
Single-Family Semidetached Dwelling
|
---|
Maximum lot coverage minimum regulations (percent)
|
35%
|
35%
|
Lot size (square feet)
|
8,000
|
12,000
|
Building setback line (feet)
|
30
|
30
|
Minimum width at building setback line (feet)
|
70
|
80
|
Rear yard (feet)
|
20
|
20
|
Side yard (feet)
|
10
|
10
|
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Statement of Intent. This section authorizes, upon issuance of a
special permit, the temporary installation of small removable homes,
to be known as "Elder Cottage Housing Opportunity" units, hereinafter
referred to as "ECHO units," on the same lots with existing single
family homes. Such ECHO housing units shall be considered to be accessory
residential uses.
2. Purpose.
A. To permit adult children to provide small temporary residences for
their aging parents who are in need of support, while maintaining
as much of the independence of the two generations as possible.
B. To permit families to provide security and support for nonelderly
relatives with serious health problems or physical or developmental
disabilities.
C. To reduce the degree to which frail elderly homeowners have to choose
between increasing isolation in their own homes and institutionalization
in nursing homes.
D. To develop housing types that are appropriate for households at a
variety of stages in the life cycle.
E. To permit ECHO housing in a manner that will protect property values
by ensuring that the units are compatible with the neighborhood and
are easily removed.
3. Permit Requirements. A permit shall be issued for a temporary ECHO
unit to lot owners of record, provided the following requirements
are satisfied:
A. A site plan will be presented to the Zoning Officer which sets forth
a minimum floor area of 280 square feet for one occupant and 400 square
feet for two occupants for each ECHO unit. Said unit will not exceed
a floor area of 850 square feet nor a height of 16 feet. All ECHO
units shall be one story only. Only one ECHO unit may be placed on
each lot.
B. An ECHO unit shall only be placed upon a lot that is conforming to
the requirements of its respective zoning district.
C. The placing of the ECHO unit shall be in conformity with the maximum
lot coverage for building and for total impervious cover for the respective
district. The total areas of all buildings, including the ECHO unit,
the main house and all the other outbuildings, shall be used to determine
lot coverage capacity for the respective zoning district.
D. The ECHO unit must be located within the legal rear setbacks required
by this chapter for the respective zoning district. No ECHO unit shall
be placed in any front yard. The ECHO unit shall be located so as
to allow clear access to equipment to place and remove it. Its location
shall address aesthetic and community character concerns, especially
those of adjoining neighbors.
E. Adequate parking shall be provided for any ECHO unit vehicles. The
number of spaces that are required will be determined by the Zoning
Officer.
F. Access must be provided to the unit separate from that of the primary
residence. Walkways from parking areas and the principal residence
to the ECHO unit shall be suitable for wheelchair and stretcher access,
as determined by the Zoning Officer. The ECHO unit shall be planned
for future installation of a wheelchair ramp.
G. Safety and Security.
(1)
It is recommended that all ECHO units which are "manufactured/modular"
or "stick-built" follow the "Recommended Construction and Installation
Standards" published by the American Association of Retired Persons.
(2)
All ECHO units shall have at least two exit doors.
(3)
The applicant shall certify that each ECHO unit shall at a minimum
meet the requirements of Subpart C, Fire Safety, Department of HUD's
"Manufactured Home Construction Safety Standards," 24 CFR Part 3280,
or the statewide building code.
H. Water and Sewage.
(1)
Adequate sewage disposal and potable water supply must be provided
by utilization of the existing facilities servicing the principal
residence or installation of separate systems. If existing on-lot
facilities are to be used, the applicant shall certify that they will
be adequate for both dwellings.
(2)
If the owner has not cleaned the septic tank within the previous
24 months, he shall do so before an occupancy permit is issued.
I. Occupancy.
(1)
The record owner(s) of the principal residence and lot must
live in one of the dwelling units on this lot.
(2)
At least one occupant of the principal residence and at least
one occupant of the ECHO unit must be related by blood, marriage or
adoption.
(3)
In no case shall there be more than two occupants of an ECHO
unit.
(4)
At least one occupant of the ECHO unit must be over 62 or unable
to live independently because of mental or physical illness or disability.
Confirmation of mental or physical illness or disability shall be
provided by a certified statement by a licensed, practicing physician.
J. Removability.
(1)
The ECHO unit's foundation should be of easily removable materials
so that the lot may be restored to its original use after removal,
with as little expense as possible.
(2)
No permanent fencing, walls, or other structures shall be installed
that will hinder removal of the ECHO unit.
(3)
In the event there is a sewage failure and there is no repair
within 30 days after notice by the Township, the use of the ECHO unit
will be discontinued immediately until corrected and the Township
may revoke said permit and proceed with removal without any liability.
4. Application Procedures.
A. Submission of Application. Property owners who want to install an
ECHO unit on the same lot with their principal residence must submit
a written application with an attached sketch plan to the Zoning Officer
which addresses the requirements for issuance of a special permit
and includes the following information, with adequate proof thereof:
(1)
The names and addresses of all owners of record and proposed
occupants of the ECHO unit.
(2)
The relationship of the proposed occupant(s) to owner(s) and an agreement that occupant(s) will meet the eligibility standards of Subsection
3 of this section.
(3)
A sketch plan of the lot shall be drawn to scale and shall show:
(a)
The location and dimensions of all structures.
(b)
The location of parking for all vehicles.
(c)
The square footage of the ECHO unit and principal residence.
(d)
The location of on-lot water and sewage systems.
(e)
The Tax Map parcel number.
(f)
The property description of the lot, including total acreage.
(4)
The floor plan for ECHO unit (which may be the manufacturer's
or builder's plan).
B. Agreement to Special Conditions. Also included in the application
will be a notarized written agreement by the property owner(s):
(1)
To adhere to the terms and conditions of this section and any
other conditions required by the Zoning Officer or the Board of Supervisors
and to execute any and all documents that may be required to ensure
that the terms and conditions imposed are fulfilled and that the intent
and policy of this chapter is fulfilled.
(2)
To renew the special permit, if granted, on an annual basis
until this section is removed.
(3)
To acknowledge that when the ECHO unit is no longer a legally
permitted use, the owner(s) will be responsible for its removal from
the lot and for restoration of the property to its original condition
within six months.
(4)
That if the owner(s) should not remove the ECHO unit within
six months after it is no longer a permitted use, the Township may
remove the unit at the cost of owner(s) and charge the costs of removal
as a lien against the property. The Township may salvage the ECHO
unit and sell it to defray the costs incurred.
(5)
That only the original occupant(s) will remain in the ECHO unit and in the event there is any change in the occupant(s), then a new application will be submitted. [See following Subsection
4B(6)].
(6)
To remove the ECHO unit from the premises upon the death of
the occupant(s) for whom permitted, unless one occupant remains and
the resident in the principal dwelling specifically requests from
the Zoning Officer continuation of the permit; or upon a permanent
charge of residence, defined as absence from ECHO unit for six months,
of the said occupant or occupants. Removal shall be completed within
six months of such event. The site shall be restored so that no visible
evidence of the unit remains.
(7)
That in the event of a sewage or water malfunction, the residents
of the premises and record property owner(s) shall repair the same
within 30 days after notice by the Township.
C. Petition for Variance to the Zoning Hearing Board. Should the landowner(s)
be unable to meet the conditions of this section, and feel that a
petition for an exception is justified, such petition may be made
to the Zoning Hearing Board in accordance with normal procedures.
D. Application Sequence:
(1)
Submission of application [see Subsection
4A(1) through
(4)].
(2)
Agreement to special conditions [see Subsection
4B(1) through
(7)].
(3)
Zoning Officer approval (or disapproval) (subject to Sewage
Enforcement Officer report).
(4)
Board of Supervisors approval (or disapproval).
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
Dwelling units in mixed-use structures shall not have more than
two bedrooms.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Trucks/trailers, accessory to a principal use, awaiting loading or
unloading may be stored on the same lot as the principal use to which
they are accessory, if waiting to be loaded or unloaded; provided,
however, that such trucks/trailers may not be stored on such sites
for a period of more than 48 hours. Such trucks, if they require a
wait of more than 48 hours, may only be stored for such periods beyond
48 hours if they are stored in designated areas not less than 200
feet distant from any public right-of-way.
2. The use of trucks/trailers as a warehouse, for future display and/or
future sale shall be permitted only in enclosed structures.
3. The materials that are permitted to be stored shall be subject to the same limitations as specified for self-storage buildings in §
27-539.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Mobile home parks are subject to the following:
A. The minimum area of a mobile home park shall be five acres.
B. When the mobile home park is served by either a public or community
sewage disposal system and by either a public or community water system,
there shall be a maximum gross density of five dwelling units per
acre the minimum dimensions of a mobile home space shall be 50 feet
by 120 feet. Where on lot sewage disposal is used, each mobile home
shall be placed on a lot which shall meet the requirements of a lot
for a single-family detached dwelling when on lot sewage disposal
is used. Where a public or community sewage disposal system and an
on-lot water supply is used, each mobile home shall be placed on a
lot which shall meet the requirements of a lot for a single-family
detached dwelling when a public or community sewage disposal system
and an on lot water supply is used.
C. No less than 10% of the total area of the mobile home park shall
be devoted to recreation areas for the use of all residents of the
park. Provision shall be made by the owner of the mobile home park
for the development installation and maintenance of such recreation
area.
D. Mobile homes shall be located at least 50 feet from any street located
outside the property lines of the park and 25 feet from streets located
within the property lines of the mobile home park.
E. The minimum required distance between any mobile home, service or
accessory building or parking facility and a boundary line of the
mobile home park shall be 50 feet. The minimum required distance between
any mobile home and another mobile home, service or accessory building
or common parking facility shall be 30 feet.
F. Two off-street parking spaces shall be provided for each mobile home.
G. The limits of each mobile home lot shall be clearly marked on the
grounds by permanent flush stakes, markers or other suitable means.
H. The mobile home park shall be permanently landscaped and maintained
in good condition.
I. A mobile home park shall not include a mobile home sales establishment.
J. Skirting around the mobile home is required in order to conceal all
supports and utility connections.
K. All mobile homes shall be properly connected to water, sewage and
electrical systems approved by the Township.
L. Each mobile home space shall be provided with a hard-surfaced mobile
home stand providing a foundation which will not heave, shift, settle
or move due to frost action, inadequate drainage, vibration or other
force acting on the structure.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Motor vehicle service station subject to the following:
A. Fuel pumps shall be at least 20 feet from any right-of-way line.
B. All activities except those required to be performed at the fuel
pumps shall be performed within a completely enclosed building, when
practical.
C. All automobile parts, dismantled vehicles and similar articles shall
be stored within a building.
D. In no case shall the lot size be less than 20,000 square feet.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Car washing facility, subject to the following:
A. Minimum lot size, in all instances, shall be one acre.
B. No structure shall be located less than 40 feet from any lot line.
C. The approach drive or parking area shall be constructed to accommodate
a minimum of four cars per bay; provided, however, that in the case
of a facility where only one bay is provided, the approach drive or
parking area shall be constructed to accommodate a minimum of eight
cars.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Repair garage facility, subject to the following:
A. In no case shall the lot size be less than 40,000 square feet.
B. No building shall be closer than 25 feet to any lot line.
C. All repair activities shall be performed within a completely enclosed
building.
D. All outdoor storage of dismantled vehicles, automobile parts, and
similar items shall be adequately screened from view in such a manner
that the outdoor storage of materials is not visible from adjoining
properties.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. All solid waste disposal facilities, transfer stations, and staging
areas are herein referred to as "the facility."
A. Within this district, siting, design, construction and operations
shall be as regulated by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental
Protection.
B. All-weather access roads shall be provided to the facility.
C. All facility sites shall be located a minimum 400 feet from any residential
district boundary line.
D. All facility sites shall be located a minimum of 200 feet from any
street not located within the lot and 200 feet from any adjoining
property line.
E. Minimum lot size shall be 10 acres.
F. A fence shall be maintained along all property lines. This fence
shall have a minimum height of six feet.
G. All areas where operations are conducted shall be screened from view
from the lot boundaries.
H. No such activity shall be conducted earlier than 7:00 a.m. or later
than 7:00 p.m. during each day, and such activities shall not be performed
on Sundays or legal holidays as designated under federal law.
I. In approving a special exception for a facility, the Zoning Hearing
Board shall ascertain that such activities shall not be or potentially
be hazardous to the health and safety of any resident of Sugarloaf
Township or its environs. Towards this end, the Zoning Hearing Board
shall require the submission of an environmental assessment in accordance
with federal and state requirements, and such environmental assessment
shall include, but not be limited to, a traffic study and plan. Such
traffic study and plan shall comply with the following requirements:
(1)
Any facility located adjacent to a federal highway shall comply
with all regulations of the Federal Highway Administration.
(2)
Any facility located adjacent to a federal highway shall comply
with all regulation of the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
(3)
The traffic study and plan shall establish the most direct proposed
route or routes for vehicles carrying solid waste to the facility.
This route shall minimize impacts on any hospital, residential home,
retail commercial establishment, public school, or religious institution.
(4)
The traffic study and plan shall include proposed remedial actions
to be taken in the event of a solid waste spill or an accident involving
a vehicle transporting solid waste.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Junkyards shall only be allowed as a special exception in the I-1
Zone and shall be subject to the following requirements: Such uses
existing at said date of adoption may continue their operations as
nonconforming uses, but shall terminate within one year unless they
shall be completely enclosed by a solid fence, screen or wall of sufficient
height so as to obscure all view of such use.
2. No operations shall be conducted which shall cause a general nuisance
or endanger the public health of the surrounding neighborhood.
3. No highly inflammable or explosive material shall be stored in bulk
above the ground, with the exception of fuel tanks or drums which
are directly connected with heating appliances. Inflammable and explosive
material storage shall be in compliance with all applicable federal
and state laws and regulations.
4. All materials or wastes causing fumes or dust, constituting a fire
hazard, or attractive to rodents or insects may be stored outdoors
only in enclosed containers.
5. Existing junkyards shall also be subject so the above-described requirements,
and, such uses legally existing at the time of the adoption of this
amendment may continue their operations as nonconforming uses; provided,
however, that such uses shall be terminated within one year unless
they shall be completely enclosed by a solid fence, screen, or wall
of sufficient height so as to obscure all view of the materials stored
at the site.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Prohibited Materials. Storage of the following hazardous materials
is prohibited:
E. Potentially explosive materials.
F. Pesticides or insecticides.
2. Records Requirements. It shall be the responsibility of the owner
to ascertain that the identified hazardous materials are not stored
on the subject premises. This shall be accomplished by the owner securing
an affidavit from the tenant attesting to the fact that such materials
are not being stored in the tenant's rented space. A copy of said
affidavit shall be retained on the premises by the owner and a copy
shall be submitted to the Borough Zoning Officer.
3. The storage of boats, campers, and trailers, and similar large recreational vehicles is also prohibited unless the area where such vehicles are stored shall be screened in accordance with §§
27-516 and
27-517 hereof.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Outdoor recreational area of a private nature for use by the general
public. Permissible uses are parks, picnic grounds, riding trails
or academy, hiking trail, boating, fishing, hunting, nature center,
swimming area and ski area, provided that:
A. The lot on which any such use is conducted shall not be less than
four acres in size.
B. The use shall include only necessary accessory structures and no
commercial activity shall be permitted except for charging of admission,
sale of refreshments, rental of athletic equipment, or such other
purpose as is clearly incidental to the permitted outdoor recreational
use.
C. No more than 10% of the lot shall be covered by impervious surfaces.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
Club, fraternal organization or lodge provided that the principal
activity shall not be one which is customarily carried on as business,
and provided that all services shall be for members and their guests
only.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. The minimum lot size shall be three acres.
2. The development shall contain at least 3,630 square feet of land
for every apartment or townhouse with one bedroom 4,356 square feet
of land for every apartment or townhouse with two bedrooms and 5,445
square feet of land for every apartment or townhouse with three or
more bedrooms.
3. The development shall be served by public or community sewage disposal
or water supply facilities.
4. Not less than 20% of the gross land area contained within the development
shall be permanently set aside for noncommercial common open space
purposes, such as recreation or conservation of natural features.
These noncommercial common open space areas shall be suitable for
the designated purpose and contain no structure or parking facility
except as related to and incidental to open space uses. Common open
spaces shall not include land included within street rights-of-way
nor shall they include land included within building lots. Common
open space areas may be reserved for private use or offered for dedication
to the Township. The Township may accept or reject such offer of dedication.
For land for which the Township does not accept dedication, written
agreements approved by the Township Supervisors shall be made for
the perpetual preservation and maintenance of the undedicated common
open space areas.
5. A system for pedestrian circulation within the tract shall be provided.
This system shall provide access to community facilities and recreation
areas.
6. The plan for the development must be submitted to the Township Planning Commission for review and receive final approval from the Township Supervisors in accordance with the procedures established in Chapter
22, Subdivision and Land Development, of the Township Code, and the requirements of this chapter.
7. No building shall have a height exceeding 35 feet.
8. No more than 5% of those areas of the tract with a slope of 25% or
greater shall be covered by impervious surfaces.
9. No more that 15% of those portions of the tract with a slope of between
15% and 25% shall be covered by impervious surfaces.
10. No more that 15% of those areas of the tract which have a high water
table (as mapped by the Natural Resources Conservation Service) shall
be covered by impervious surfaces.
11. No apartment building shall be closer than 40 feet to the townhouse,
another apartment building, street right-of-way or property line of
the development.
12. No townhouse shall be closer than 40 feet to a townhouse not in that
row of townhouses, street right-of-way or property line of the development.
13. Exterior storage areas for trash and rubbish shall be completely
screened from view on three sides and all trash and rubbish shall
be contained in vermin proof containers.
14. Common parking areas for townhouses or apartments shall not be designed
or located to require cars to back into streets in order to leave
the parking areas. All dead-end parking lots shall be provided adequate
areas in which cars parked in the end stalls of the lots may turn
around.
15. Common parking areas and access drives for townhouses or apartments
shall be located a minimum of 20 feet from all structures and from
the exterior lot lines of the development. Common parking areas shall
be a minimum of 20 feet from all roads.
16. Entrance- and exitways to parking areas shall have a minimum width
of 12 feet for each lane of traffic entering or leaving the areas.
17. Parking area shall be designed to prevent through traffic to other
parking areas. No more than 60 parking spaces shall be accommodated
in any one parking area, and all parking areas shall be landscaped.
18. Entrances to and exits from common parking areas shall be located
a minimum of 50 feet from the point of intersection of the nearest
street curblines.
19. The maximum length of an apartment building shall be 200 feet.
20. The number of townhouse units within a continuous grouping shall
not exceed eight.
21. The applicant shall submit a plan showing existing natural features
of the site, including soil types, watercourses, tree masses, drainageways
and slope.
22. Building coverage shall not exceed 20% of the area of the development.
23. The paved area shall not exceed 30% of the area of the development.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
Mining, subject to all state and federal laws, rules and regulations
and such additional reasonable rules, regulations and requirements
as the Zoning Hearing Board may determine.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. Quarry and surface mining, subject to the following conditions:
A. Environmental and Operational Conditions:
(1)
Demonstrated documentation as part of the special exception
application that the proposed use complies with all the applicable
provisions of state and federal laws and acts, including, but not
limited to:
(a)
Surface Mining Conservation and Reclamation Act.
(b)
Bituminous Mine Subsidence and Land Conservation Act.
(c)
Coal Refuse Disposal Control Act.
(d)
Noncoal Surface Mining Conservation and Reclamation Act.
B. Location Conditions:
(1)
The proposed use shall conform to the following conditions that
guide the location of quarry and surface mining uses:
(a)
A minimum tract area of 200 acres.
(b)
A direct and safe access to a public road with a functional
classification of collector or arterial as defined by the Sugarloaf
Township Comprehensive Plan or as listed here:
(c)
A traffic impact study shall be submitted with the special exception
application. The study shall indicate the traffic to be generated
by the proposed use, the impact on the existing roads and traffic,
and contain proposals to offset any condition that adversely impacts
the existing conditions. The proposed use shall not cause the deterioration
to any degree of the existing road and traffic conditions.
(d)
The application and diagrams for access permits to any public
road shall be submitted with documentation that the proposed access
is safe and adequate to handle the traffic resulting from the proposed
use.
(e)
Access roads shall be paved for a distance of 200 feet from
the public road and designed to prevent any material from being tracked
onto the public roadway.
(f)
A report that establishes a baseline measurement of the existing
water quality and quantity of groundwaters and surface waters impacted
by the proposed use.
(g)
The proposed use may not be located above or over any aquifer
used as a source for public water supply.
(h)
The proposed site shall not contain any perennial surface stream
or watercourse.
(i)
The proposed use shall be located a minimum distance of 300
feet from any zoning district that permits residential uses.
(j)
The proposed use shall be located a minimum of 300 feet from
any surface stream used as a source for a public water supply.
(k)
The area created by required setbacks shall be retained in a
natural condition that provides buffer or screening, or provided with
raised earth berm landscaped to provide year-round screening and buffer
to public roads and residential uses or areas.
(l)
A site plan that shows the location of all existing and proposed
improvements and extraction areas, and contours appropriate to show
the land characteristics.
(m)
As a condition for approval of a special exception application,
the applicant agrees to submit to the Township Zoning Officer within
the first 30 days of each year of operation a progress report that
indicates that inspection and maintenance of equipment, fences, signs,
state of reclamation has been done, and verification is included that
the operation complies to all state and federal requirements.
[Ord. No. 5-2005, 10/11/2005]
1. The applicant shall demonstrate that it is licensed by the Federal
Communications Commission to operate a communications tower, if applicable,
and communications antennas.
2. The applicant shall demonstrate that the proposed communications
tower and communications antennas proposed to be mounted thereon comply
with all applicable standards established by the Federal Communications
Commission governing human exposure to electromagnetic radiation.
3. Communications towers shall comply with all applicable Federal Aviation
Administration, Commonwealth Bureau of Aviation and applicable airport
zoning regulations.
4. Any applicant proposing construction of a new communications tower
shall demonstrate that a good-faith effort has been made to obtain
permission to mount the communications antennas on an existing building,
structure or communications tower. A good-faith effort shall require
that all owners of potentially suitable structures within a 1/4 mile
radius of the proposed communications tower site be contacted and
that one or more of the following reasons for not selecting such structure
apply:
A. The proposed antennas and related equipment would exceed the structural
capacity of the existing structure and its reinforcement cannot be
accomplished at a reasonable cost.
B. The proposed antennas and related equipment would cause radio frequency
interference with other existing equipment for that existing structure
and the interference cannot be prevented at a reasonable cost.
C. Such existing structures do not have adequate location, space, access
or height to accommodate the proposed equipment or to allow it to
perform its intended function.
D. Addition of the proposed antennas and related equipment would result
in electromagnetic radiation from such structure exceeding applicable
standards established by the Federal Communications Commission, governing
human exposure to electromagnetic radiation.
E. A commercially reasonable agreement could not be reached with the
owners of such structures.
5. Access
shall be provided to the communications tower and communications equipment
building by means of a public street or easement to a public street.
The easement shall be a minimum of 20 feet in width and shall be improved
to a width of at least 10 feet with a dust-free, all-weather surface
for its entire length.
6. A communications
tower may be located on a lot occupied by other principal structures
and may occupy a leased parcel within a lot meeting the minimum lot
size requirements for the zoning district.
7. Recording
of a plat of subdivision or land development shall be required for
a lease parcel on which a communications tower is proposed to be constructed.
8. The applicant
shall demonstrate that the proposed height of the communications tower
is the minimum height necessary to perform its function.
9. The maximum
height of any communications tower shall be 150 feet.
10. The
foundation and base of any communications tower shall be set back
from a property line (not lease line) at least 100 feet.
11. The
base of a communications tower shall be landscaped so as to screen
the foundation and base and communications equipment building from
any abutting properties.
12. The
communications equipment building shall comply with the required yards
and height requirements of the applicable zoning district for any
accessory structure.
13. The
applicant shall submit certification from a Pennsylvania registered
professional engineer that a proposed communications tower will be
designed and constructed in accordance with the current Structural
Standards for Steel Antenna Towers and Antenna Supporting Structures,
published by the Electrical Industrial Association/Telecommunications
Industry Association, and applicable requirements of the Township's
building code.
14. The
applicant shall submit a copy of its current Federal Communications
Commission license, the name, address and emergency telephone number
for the operator of the communications tower and a certificate of
insurance evidencing general liability coverage in the minimum amount
of $1,000,000 per occurrence and property damage coverage in the minimum
amount of $1,000,000 per occurrence, covering the communications tower
and communications antennas.
15. All
guy wires associated with guyed communications towers shall be clearly
marked so as to be visible at all times and shall be located within
a fenced enclosure.
16. The
site of a communications tower shall be secured by a fence with a
minimum height of eight feet to limit accessibility by the general
public. Such fence shall be a distance of not less than 50 feet from
all sides of the tower. If the site is a leased area, then only the
leased area need be fenced.
17. No signs
or lights shall be mounted on a communications tower, except as may
be required by the Federal Communications Commission, Federal Aviation
Administration or other governmental agency which has jurisdiction.
18. Communications
towers shall be protected and maintained in accordance with the requirements
of the Township's building code.
19. If a
communications tower remains unused for a period of 15 consecutive
months, the owner or operator shall dismantle and remove the communications
tower within six months of the expiration of such fifteen-month period.
20. One
off-street parking space shall be provided within the fenced area.
21. Minimum
lot size shall be calculated by using the height of the tower, plus
50 feet in all directions from the center of the tower. All existing
features within this area shall be shown in case of tower failure.
Furthermore, no lot or lease shall be less than the minimum lot size
requirements for the zoning district where it is located but in no
case less than one acre.
[Added by Ord. No. 3-2012, 11/13/2012]
1. Any container, bin or other equipment for garbage, trash, refuse
and similar solid waste shall have a tightly fitting cover to prevent
the overflow of waste material. Said cover shall be used at all times.
2. The owner or occupant or commercial or industrial premises where a container is placed shall provide a clean, safe and sanitary area for the storage thereof subject to this chapter and Chapter
22, Subdivision and Land Development, of the Code of Sugarloaf Township.
3. Containers, Commercial and Industrial. Every collector who rents,
owns or controls any container, bin or other equipment used for the
storage of commercial or industrial solid waste shall:
A. Place and maintain on the outside of such container, bin or other
equipment, in legible letters and numerals not less than one inch
in height said collector's name or firm name and telephone number
in a color contrasting to the background of the container.
B. At all times keep such containers and lids in good, clean and sanitary
condition.
C. Provide suitable containers for all commercial or industrial property
customers as required by this chapter.
[Added by Ord. No. 4-2018, 9/11/2018]
1. Purpose and Intent. Sugarloaf Township recognizes that the diversity
of prepared food options can be enhanced by permitting mobile food
vendors to serve prepared food within the Township limits in the C-1
Highway Commercial District, C-2 Highway Interchange Commercial District,
and I-1 General Industrial and Mining District. The Township further
recognizes that mobile food vendors have the same responsibilities
to their customers and the community as do food service establishments
with fixed locations and should be required to abide by the local
permitting process. The requirements of this section apply to mobile
food vendors who return to the same location or service area daily
or on a set schedule within the Township of Sugarloaf.
2. Requirements for mobile food vendors ("vendors") within the C-1,
C-2 and I-1 Zoning District in the Township of Sugarloaf:
A. Vendors must have a current permit to operate from the Pennsylvania
Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Food Safety and Laboratory Services,
or the local health department and a ServSafe certification.
B. Vendors may operate only on private property with written permission
from the property owners. The parcel must be zoned C-1 Highway Commercial,
C-2 Highway Interchange Commercial or I-1 General Industrial and Mining.
C. Vendors may operate only during daylight hours between 8:00 a.m.
and 8:00 p.m.
D. Mobile vending units shall be located at least 10 feet away from
the nearest building, provided that a mobile vending unit may be located
closer than 10 feet to a building if the location has been approved
in advance by the Township Fire Chief. Mobile vending units shall
be located a minimum distance of 15 feet in all directions of a fire
hydrant.
E. Vendors shall only serve walk-up customers, not customers in a motor
vehicle.
F. Vendors shall not broadcast music or loud advertisements.
G. Vendors shall not provide customer seating.
H. No signage is allowed except signage affixed to the mobile vending
unit identifying the vendors and menu/price information.
I. Vendor must display the food vendor, ServSafe, Department of Agriculture,
or local health department permits in a prominent location on the
unit.
J. Only one mobile vending unit may locate on any parcel at one time.
K. Vendors must provide for adequate waste collection from their customers
and remove waste from the site daily without using public waste receptacles.
L. Vendors must operate in a safe, sanitary, and nonoffensive manner.
Complaints of unsafe conditions, excessive waste or noise (from patrons
or machinery), or other disruptive conditions to neighboring owners
or occupants will be investigated and may be the cause for revoked
permits or denied permit renewal and may result in a citation for
public nuisance, excessive noise, disorderly conduct or any other
applicable violation of an ordinance or statute.
M. The mobile food vendor operator and his/her designee must be present
at all times during hours of operation except in the case of an emergency.
N. No liquid waste or grease is to be disposed in tree pits, storm drains
or onto the sidewalks, streets, or other public space. Under no circumstances
shall grease be released or disposed of in the sanitary sewer system
serving the Township.
O. Mobile vending units must contain adequate facilities for electric
and water. No mobile vending unit shall utilize or connect to a third-party
or outside source for electric or water.
3. Permit Requirements. Mobile food vendors must obtain an annual permit
to operate within the C-1, C-2 or I-1 District in the Township of
Sugarloaf. The following information shall be provided with each application
for a mobile food vendor permit:
A. Name of mobile food vendor.
B. Make, model, and license plate number of vending unit.
C. Owner's contact information.
D. Operator's contact information.
E. Type of vendor (street vending unit or sidewalk vending unit).
F. Copy of approved permit from the Pennsylvania Department of Agriculture.
G. List of operating locations and times (calendar).
H. Signatures from property owners, indicating consent for the use of
their property.
I. Signature by applicant, indicating agreement to the listed requirements
for operation of a mobile food vendor business in the C-1, C-2 or
I-1 District.
J. Proof of valid insurance policy that provides minimum liability coverage
of $1,000,000 with the Township named as additional insured.
4. Investigation of Applicants; Granting of Authorization.
A. Upon receipt of an application for a permit, the Chief of Police
or his or her delegate shall investigate the applicant and the applicant's
business or organization as he or she deems necessary for the protection
of the public welfare. Further, the Chief of Police and the Zoning
Officer shall review the applicant's proposed location regarding vehicular
traffic congestion and/or pedestrian access.
B. The Chief of Police shall report the findings of his or her investigation
to the Zoning Department.
C. Mobile food vendor permits shall be issued by the Zoning Officer.
No permit shall be issued until such investigation by the Chief of
Police and the Zoning Officer is complete, but in no event shall authorization
be granted sooner than three full business days from the date of receipt
of the application by the Sugarloaf Township Police Department.
5. Appeals. Any person aggrieved by the action of the Zoning Officer
shall have the right of appeal to the Zoning Hearing Board within
the time frame allowed for appeal of the action of a Zoning Officer
under this chapter.
6. Permit Review. Permit requests shall be submitted to the Zoning Officer
for review and approval. Permits must be obtained annually.
7. Special or Multiple Vendor Events. Special events held for a defined period of time (such as a day or weekend) by local churches, fire companies, community nonprofit organizations or other community fund-raising or charitable organizations may be exempt from certain requirements of this section upon the filing of a request for a waiver to the Township. The waiver request should include and explain the proposed use involving the sale of food from other than a fixed location and the requirements of Subsections
2 and
3 and the section(s) for which a waiver is requested. Organizers of such events are required to obtain a permit under this section.
8. Permit Fees. The Township may by resolution establish, and from time
to time amend, a fee amount for a mobile food vendor permit.
9. Maximum Number of Permits. No more than 10 active mobile food vendor
permits shall be allowed at any given time. Permits shall be issued
to qualified applicants on a first-come, first-served basis. The Township
may refuse a permit if the Township determines that issuing the permit
will negatively impact traffic flow, or will otherwise be detrimental
to the general public health and safety, or if the number of issued
mobile food vendor permits is already exhausted. Mobile food vendors
will be encouraged to adjust the locations or times of their proposed
sales to accommodate the Township's ability to ensure public health
and safety. The Township may refuse a permit to anyone seeking a mobile
food vendor permit if the entity has a poor record of conformance
with permit requirements. No permit shall be issued until the permit
fee established by the schedule of fees has been paid in full.
10. Violations and Remedies. Violations of this section shall result in enforcement remedies as specified in Part
8, Enforcement, §§
27-801 through
27-804.