Township of Pittsfield, MI Access, Parking, and Loading Requirements

Every use, building or structure established after the effective date of this chapter shall be on a lot or parcel which adjoins a public street or an approved private road. Such street right-of-way will comply with Washtenaw County Road Commission standards or shall adjoin a private road for which the design and construction have been approved per the Township Engineering Standards.

A driveway may not serve more than one lot or parcel unless a private road is constructed for which the design and construction have been approved per the Township Engineering Standards.

Road construction.

All new public road construction and road improvements shall comply with the applicable Washtenaw County Road Commission or Michigan Department of Transportation standards.

All new private road construction and road improvements shall comply with the applicable Township engineering standards and any other applicable Township policies.

Access requirement for permits. No building permits or land division permits shall be issued for any lot or parcel until access, as required under this section, has been constructed and approved. The Zoning Administrator shall have the authority to approve the provision of required access.

§ 40-12.03 Access management regulations.

Purpose. Access management regulations can alleviate some traffic congestion, help maximize road capacity and increase traffic safety. These regulations are based on considerable research in Michigan and nationally, and were prepared concurrent with guidelines promoted by the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT).

Applicability.

An access point is the connection of a driveway at the right-of-way line of a road or the intersection of a road with a new road, driveway, shared access or service drive. All access points except driveways that serve an agricultural use, a single-family home, a two-family home, or essential service facility structure shall meet the regulations set forth herein.

No building or structure, nor the enlargement of any building or structure, shall be erected unless the access management regulations of this section are met and maintained in connection with such building, structure, or enlargement.

No land division or subdivision or site condominium project shall be approved within this district unless compliance with the access spacing standards herein is demonstrated.

Any change in use on a site that does not meet the access standards and this section's access management regulations, shall require the submittal of a site plan for approval by the Planning Commission and the submittal of information to the MDOT and/or the Washtenaw County Road Commission (WCRC) to determine if a new access permit is required.

Number of access points. Each lot shall be permitted one access point. This access point may consist of an individual driveway, a shared access with an adjacent use, or access via a service drive or frontage road. As noted above, land divisions shall not be permitted that may prevent compliance with the access location standards of this section.

Additional driveways. An additional driveway may be permitted by the Planning Commission upon finding that the conditions of Subsection D(1) and (2), or (3), below exist. The additional driveway may be required to be along a side street or a shared access with an adjacent site.

The site has a frontage of over 660 feet and the spacing standards between access points listed below are met; or

The additional access will not prevent adjacent lands from complying with the access spacing standards when such lands develop or redevelop in the future; or

A traffic study, set forth in Township regulations, demonstrates the additional driveway will provide improved conditions for the motoring public and will not create negative impacts on through traffic flow.

Spacing of access points. All spacing of access points shall comply with Township Engineering Standards, other applicable policies, WCCR standards, MDOT standards, or the standards of another appropriate body.

Spacing from intersections. Minimum spacing of access points from intersections, shall comply with Township Engineering Standards, WCCR standards, MDOT standards, or the standards of another appropriate body.

Complete streets. Any project involving the construction, reconstruction, capacity enhancement, or preservation of a roadway, bridge, public parking facility, or other transportation right-of-way within the Township shall be subject to the provisions of the Township Complete Streets Ordinance as outlined in Chapter 28, Article I, of the Pittsfield Charter Township Code.

Adjoining lands. Where the subject site adjoins land that may be developed or redeveloped in the future, including adjacent lands or potential out-lots, the access shall be located to ensure the adjacent site(s) can also meet the access location standards in the future. Site development shall be done to provide for future cross access to adjacent lots.

Access points on US-12. Access points along sections of US-12 with an existing or planned median shall be located in consideration of existing or approved median crossovers. A sufficient length for weaving across travel lanes and storage within the median shall be provided, consistent with MDOT published standards.

Offset spacing. Access points shall be aligned with driveways on the opposite side of the street or offset a minimum of 250 feet, center line to center line. The Planning Commission may reduce this to not less than 150 feet where each of the opposing access points generates less than 50 trips (inbound and outbound) during any one-hour period as determined by the Institute of Transportation Engineer's most recent Trip Generation Manual, or where sight distance limitations exist.

Shared driveway, service drive, and frontage roads.

Where direct access consistent with the various standards above cannot be achieved, access should be via a shared driveway or service drive. In particular, the Planning Commission may require development of frontage roads, or rear service drives where such facilities can provide access to signalized locations, where service drives may minimize the number of driveways, and as a means to ensure that traffic is able to more efficiently and safely ingress and egress.

Frontage roads or service drives shall be constructed in accordance with the following standards:

Service drives and frontage roads shall be set back as far as reasonably possible from the intersection of the access driveway with the public street. A minimum distance that equals the required front yard (setback) or the major road setback, whichever is a greater distance from the right-of-way, shall be maintained between the public street right-of-way and the pavement of the frontage road, with a minimum 50 feet of throat depth provided at the access point. The Planning Commission may extend throat length if modeled vehicle queues necessitate expansion.

The alignment of the service drive can be refined to meet the needs of the site and anticipated traffic conditions, provided that the resulting terminus allows the drive to be extended through the adjacent site(s).

In cases where a shared access facility is recommended, but is not yet available, temporary direct access may be permitted, provided that the plan is designed to accommodate the future service drive, and a written agreement is submitted that the temporary access will be removed by the property owner when the alternative access system becomes available. The Planning Commission may require posting of a financial performance guarantee to ensure compliance.

Safe sight distance. Driveways shall be located to provide safe sight distance, as determined by the applicable road agency.

Street structures. No driveway shall interfere with municipal facilities, such as streetlights, traffic signal poles, signs, fire hydrants, crosswalks, bus loading zones, utility poles, fire alarm supports, drainage structures, or other necessary street structures. The Zoning Administrator is authorized to order and effect the removal or reconstruction of any driveway which is constructed in conflict with street structures. The cost of reconstructing or relocating such driveways shall be at the expense of the adjoining property owner.

Miscellaneous access design standards.

A driveway which intersects a paved street shall be paved for a minimum distance of 50 feet from the pavement edge of the road, even if the remainder of the drive is not to be paved. Single-family residential lots shall not be subject to this requirement.

Driveway slopes shall provide a smooth, uninterrupted movement of traffic from the street to the site. The slope shall be low enough to prevent undercarriage drag or vehicle bouncing in order to permit safe entry and exit when the drive surface is wet.

The minimum slope shall be 1%.

The grade of a commercial driveway shall not exceed a maximum of 6%.

The grade of a residential driveway shall not exceed a maximum of 10%.

If the sidewalk elevation must be adjusted to meet the driveway, the slope shall not exceed 5% and the maximum slope shall be 6%.

Curve radii at drive intersections with streets shall be large enough to permit smooth, uninterrupted movement of traffic between the site and street.

On county roads, the standards of the Washtenaw County Road Commission shall apply.

On state trunklines, the standards of the Michigan Department of Transportation shall apply.

On City of Ann Arbor roads, the standards of the City of Ann Arbor shall apply.

On all other roads, driveway intersection radii shall generally meet County Road Commission standards unless the nature and speed of traffic on the road justify a lesser standard.

The angle of the driveway intersection with the street shall be 90° unless directional one-way flow of traffic is intended, in which case the angle of deflection from the street to the drive shall not be less than 45°.

Driveways shall be designed to accommodate existing and future sidewalks. These sidewalks shall be compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Where sidewalks intersect driveways, the sidewalk shall be carried through the driveway.

Modification of access standards.

Modifications by Planning Commission. Given the variation in existing physical conditions along the corridors, modifications to the spacing and other standards above may be permitted by the Planning Commission as part of the site plan review process upon a finding that all of the following conditions apply:

Practical difficulties exist on the site that make compliance unreasonable (sight distance limitations, topography, wetlands, drains or bodies of water, woodlands that will be preserved, existing development, existing nonconforming width, unique site configuration or shape), or existing off-site access points make it impractical to fully comply with the standards. The use involves an access improvement to an existing site or a new use that will generate less traffic than the previous use or there is only one access point that is not being changed.

The proposed modification is consistent with the appropriate road agency guidelines and the appropriate road agency staff support the proposed access design.

If located along US-12, the proposed modification is consistent with the general intent of the standards of this section and the recommendations of the Master Plan and any other applicable plans.

If deemed necessary by the Planning Commission, a traffic study by a qualified traffic engineer has been provided that certifies the modification will improve traffic operations and safety, and is not simply for convenience of the development.

The applicant shall demonstrate with dimensioned drawings that such modification will not create noncompliant access to adjacent lands that may be developed or redeveloped in the future.

(f)

Roadway or intersection improvements will be made to improve overall traffic operations prior to the project completion or occupancy of the first building.

(g)

Indirect or shared access is not reasonable.

(h)

Such modification shall be demonstrated to be the minimum necessary.

The decision of the Planning Commission may be appealed to the Zoning Board of Appeals. In consideration of this variance, the Board shall apply the standards above.

For building or parking lot expansions or changes in use, the Planning Commission shall determine the extent of upgrades to bring the site into greater compliance with the access standards of this section. In making its decision, the Planning Commission shall consider the existing and projected traffic conditions, any sight distance limitations, site topography or natural features, impacts on internal site circulation, and any recommendations from the MDOT and/or the WCRC.

Required improvements may include removal, rearrangement or redesign of site access points.

More restrictive standards. The appropriate road agency may require a more restrictive standard than contained herein.

§ 40-12.04 Traffic impact analysis.

A traffic impact analysis, as set forth in the Engineering Standards, may be required to analyze the effect of development upon existing street traffic. The traffic impact analysis shall be paid for by the applicant. Such traffic impact analysis shall be completed in compliance with Township Engineering Standards.

§ 40-12.05 Parking and circulation.

Where required. The standards set forth in this section shall apply to all uses for which off-street parking and circulation is provided.

General off-street parking requirements.

[Amended 11-18-2020 by Ord. No. ZOA 20-211]

There shall be provided in all districts at the time of erection or enlargement of any main building or structure, automobile off-street parking with adequate access to all spaces. The required off-street parking spaces must be provided, prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy as hereinafter described.

Off-street parking for uses in all districts shall be on the same lot as the use or building served by the parking, unless joint parking with abutting properties and uses is provided in a form acceptable to the Township Attorney and executed and recorded by the parties sharing the parking.

Off-street parking spaces for single-family detached units or duplexes on individual lots shall consist of a parking strip, driveway, garage, or combination thereof, and shall be located on the premises they are intended to serve.

Parking of motor vehicles, in residential districts and areas of residential uses, shall be limited to passenger vehicles, and not more than one commercial vehicle of the light delivery type, not to exceed 3/4 ton shall be permitted per dwelling unit. The parking of any other type of commercial vehicle is prohibited in a residential zone. Parking spaces for all types of vehicles may be provided in an enclosed building.

Parking of recreational vehicles in residential zones shall be limited to the following:

General provisions.

[1]

No private recreational vehicle shall be stored on any public property.

[2]

Parking of recreational vehicles is permitted in any enclosed structure when such structure conforms to the regulations of its zoning district.

[3]

Recreation vehicles shall not be connected to electricity, gas, water, or sanitary sewer facilities, except a temporary electrical connection may be made for the purpose of recharging batteries.

[4]

Recreational vehicles equipped with liquefied petroleum gas containers must ensure that such containers meet the current standards of the Interstate Commerce Commission, the United States Department of Transportation, or the American Society of Mechanical Engineers. Any valves must be closed at all times that the recreational vehicle is not in preparation for immediate use. Leaks in containers must be repaired immediately.

Outside storage.

[1]

The recreational vehicle must be owned by and licensed to a full-time occupant of the zoning parcels upon which the vehicle will be stored.

[2]

No recreational vehicle shall be stored on a private property driveway for greater than 48 hours. When parked in a private driveway, such parking may not be in the public right-of-way or overhang into the public right-of-way including any sidewalk.

[3]

No recreational vehicle shall be stored outside unless in the rear yard or in an interior side yard behind the frontline of any primary building. The recreational vehicle must be stored at least six feet from any property line and must be screened from any adjacent properties in accordance with § 13.02C, Screening alternative 1 or 2 or a fence.

[4]

Only one such vehicle and vehicle trailer per lot for lots less than 2.5 acres.

[5]

One additional vehicle and vehicle trailer may be permitted per lot for lots 2.5 acres or more.

[6]

Recreation vehicles must be operational and maintained in a clean, well-kept state.

Parking areas for uses other than single-family detached units or duplexes on individual lots shall be approved as part of a site plan. Minor changes to the parking layout, as determined by the Zoning Administrator, shall require a submittal of a parking plan.

(7)

Off-street parking shall be provided for a principal use erected, altered, or expanded after the effective date of this section. Required off-street parking shall be maintained so long as the principal use remains, unless an equivalent number of such spaces are provided elsewhere in conformance with this section.

(8)

No existing off-street parking shall be reduced below the requirements established by this section.

(9)

Within nonresidential districts, off-street parking for continuous periods of more than 24 hours shall be prohibited with the following exceptions:

Parking in conjunction with an automobile sales and service facility, major and minor automobile repair facility, and automobile towing service, as permitted and regulated by this section.

Automobiles and commercial vehicles owned and operated in conjunction with the principal use of the property.

(10)

The storage of and/or the repair of merchandise, materials, equipment or vehicles are prohibited on required off-street parking or loading spaces.

(11)

Off-street parking areas shall be designed to provide for removal and storage of snow.

Parking location and setbacks.

Parking spaces shall be provided either on the same lot, within lots under the same ownership or, where a shared parking easement is provided, on an adjacent lot within 300 feet of the building it is intended to serve, measured from the nearest public building entrance to the nearest parking space of the off-street parking lot.

Off-street parking shall not be permitted in required front or corner side yards or in a required greenbelt.

Driveways parallel to adjacent streets or roads shall not be permitted in required greenbelt.

Paved areas shall be 10 feet from any side or rear lot lines that abut an adjacent residentially zoned or used property and five feet from any side or rear lot lines that abut any other property. Paving setbacks between nonresidentially zoned or used property may be waived by the Planning Commission for cross-access and joint parking.

Units and methods of measurement. For the purpose of determining off-street parking requirements, the following units of measurement shall apply:

Where floor area is the unit for determining the required number of off-street parking spaces, said unit shall mean the net floor area, as defined by this chapter.

For requirements stated in terms of employees, the calculation shall be based upon the maximum number of employees likely to be on the premises during the largest shift.

In stadiums, sports arenas, auditoriums and other places of assembly, seating capacity shall be based upon the Building Code requirements currently in effect. In cases where a place of assembly has both fixed seats and/or open assembly areas, requirements shall be computed separately for each type and added together.

When the number of required parking or loading spaces result in a fractional space, then the fraction shall be counted as one additional space.

Off-street parking requirements for separate uses may be provided collectively if the total number of spaces provided is not less than the sum of the separate requirements for each use and provided that all regulations governing location, in relation to the use served, are adhered to.

Shared parking for separate zoning lots.

The developed parking for adjacent zoning lots may be shared, provided that a signed agreement is provided by the property owners, and the applicant can demonstrate that the peak usage will occur at different periods of the day.

To demonstrate shared parking compatibility, the applicant shall use a recognized industry standard such as the Urban Land Institute Shared Parking Report. Underlying parking space requirements for each use shall be based on Pittsfield Charter Township parking requirements noted herein or as otherwise modified by the provisions of this article.

Side or rear parking lot setbacks may be reduced or waived where a shared access driveway, connected parking lots, and/or internal service drives are provided.

Flexibility in application.

The Township recognizes that, due to the specific requirements of any given development, inflexible application of the parking standards may result in development with inadequate parking or parking far in excess of that which is needed. The former situation may lead to traffic congestion or unauthorized parking on adjacent streets or neighboring sites. The latter situation may result in excessive paving and stormwater runoff and a waste of space which could be left as open space.

The Planning Commission, in its sole discretion, may grant deviations from off-street parking requirements. These deviations may require more or less parking based upon a finding that such deviations are more likely to provide a sufficient number of parking spaces to accommodate the specific characteristics of the use in question. In the event that a deviation is granted, the following shall apply:

An applicant may request a parking deviation at any time, as part of a current site plan, special land use, or rezoning application, or may request a parking deviation as a separate and distinct action with no other concurrent request.

The applicant shall provide a parking study with adequate detail and information to assist the Planning Commission of the appropriateness of the request.

A parking deviation may be included in an action on a concurrent request or be made separately by resolution.

The Planning Commission may attach conditions to the approval of a deviation from the off-street parking requirements that bind such approval to the specific use in question.

The Planning Commission may require the applicant to set aside area for reserve parking (land banking) to be constructed as needed, although this is not a prerequisite for the approval of a deviation. Where an area is set aside for reserve parking, it shall be easily developed, not devoted to a use other than open space, and shall be designed to accommodate attendant facilities, such as maneuvering lanes and drainage.

It is the intent of this chapter to minimize excessive areas of pavement which reduce aesthetic standards and contribute to high rates of stormwater runoff. Exceeding the minimum parking space requirements by more than 20% shall only be allowed with approval by the Planning Commission. In granting such additional space, the Planning Commission shall determine that such parking will be required, based on documented evidence, to accommodate the use on a typical day.

Schedule of required off-street parking spaces. The minimum number of off-street parking spaces shall be determined by the type of use in accordance with Table 12.05.G-1. For uses not specifically listed below, the required parking shall be in accordance with that of a similar use as determined by the Zoning Administrator, or determined by the Planning Commission during site plan review based on documentation regarding the specific parking needs of the use.

Table 12.05.G-1 Schedule of Required Off-Street Parking Spaces
Use	Parking Requirement (number of spaces)
Residential
Single-family and two-family residential	2 for each dwelling unit
Multiple-family residential	1 per each efficiency dwelling unit; and 2 per each dwelling unit with 1 or more bedrooms
Bed-and-breakfast	2 for owner dwelling; and 1 for each bed-and-breakfast room
Mobile home park	2 per each mobile home unit; and 1 for each employee on the largest typical shift
Housing for the Elderly
Convalescent and nursing facilities	1 per each 3 beds or 2 rooms, whichever is less; plus 1 for each employee on the largest typical shift
Senior assisted or independent living	1 for each 0.65 dwelling unit; plus 1 for each employee on the largest typical shift
Institutional and Places of Gathering
Places of worship	1 for each 3 seats or 6 feet of pews in the main unit of worship
Primary and secondary schools	1 for each 1 teacher, employee, or administrator, in addition to the requirements for separate auditorium or stadium seating
Post-secondary schools, including high schools, colleges, and commercial schools	1 for each 1 teacher, employee, or administrator; and 1 for each 10 students, in addition to the requirements for auditorium or stadium seating
Social clubs, fraternal organizations, and other similar uses	1 for each 3 persons allowed within the maximum occupancy load as established by the Fire or Building Codes
Places of assembly and auditoriums	1 for each 3 seats or 6 feet of bleacher seating in public, private, recreational, or theater settings
Day-care centers and preschools	2; plus 1 additional for each 8 children of licensed authorized capacity
Family day-care homes, group day-care homes, and adult foster-care homes	1 per 6 clients or fraction thereof; plus 1 per employee at time of peak shift
Office
Banks, credit union or savings and loans	1 for each 200 square feet of gross floor area; plus 2 for each non-drive-up ATM
Drive-through facilities for nonrestaurant uses	4 stacking spaces for each window or drive-up ATM
Office or professional buildings, except medical offices	1 for each 300 square feet of gross floor area
Medical, dental, and veterinary offices, including clinics and medical laboratories	1 for each 200 square feet of gross floor area
Medical clinics, outpatient centers, 24-hour urgent care centers, etc.	2 per exam or outpatient procedure/operating room; 1 per laboratory or recovery room; and 1 per employee at time of peak shift
Hospitals	2 per inpatient bed; plus 1 per each 200 square feet of office or outpatient area
General Commercial/Retail
All commercial/retail	1 for each 250 square feet of gross floor area
Commercial/retail centers
For centers of less than 50,000 square feet	1 for each 250 square feet of gross floor area
For centers between 50,000 and 450,000 square feet of gross floor area	1 for each 300 square feet of gross floor area
For centers greater than 450,000 square feet of gross floor area	1 for each 350 square feet, excluding nonretail uses. Nonretail uses such as restaurants, bars, and theaters shall be calculated separately based upon their respective requirements.
Vehicle dealership, sales, and service	1 for each 250 square feet of net floor area; plus 2 per each auto service bay
Recreational vehicles, boat, mobile home, and similar sales	1 for each 500 square feet of net floor area; plus 2 per each vehicle sales service bay
Restaurants and Cafes
Standard restaurant	1 for each 2 seats, based on maximum seating capacity as determined by the Building Code in effect in the Township
Fast-food restaurant	1 for each 70 square feet of net floor area
Restaurant drive-through window	10 stacking spaces which do not conflict with use of other required spaces
Commercial Services
Vehicle fueling/multi-use station	1 for each 125 square feet of net floor area; plus 2 per fueling station
Vehicle repair station	2 for each service bay; plus 1 for each tow truck, if applicable, plus adequate spaces for overnight parking; plus 1 per 1 employee at peak shift
Vehicle wash	2; plus 12 stacking spaces per bay for a semiautomatic or fully automatic wash; 1 stacking space per bay for a self-serve wash; plus 1 per 1 employee at peak shift
Barbershop/beauty salons	2 for each barber chair or station
Funeral home and mortuary	1 for each 70 square feet of service parlors, chapels, and reception area; plus 1 for each funeral vehicle stored on the premises
Motel/hotel	1 for each guest room 1 per 1 employee on the largest typical shift, plus any additional spaces required for dining establishments, calculated separately as noted herein
Banquet halls or conference rooms and similar uses without fixed seats	1 for every 2 persons of capacity authorized by the Fire or Building Code, or 1 for each 100 square feet of net floor area, whichever is greater, plus any required parking for other uses, such as restaurants, gift shops, etc.
Self-storage mini-warehouse	1 for each 100 storage units, with a minimum of 6 spaces
Recreational
Health fitness centers, athletic clubs, martial arts studios, and other similar uses	1 for each 200 square feet of net floor area
Bowling alleys	5 for each lane
Indoor and outdoor recreational uses of public or private ownership or use	1 for each 1,000 square feet of enclosed recreational space; plus 1 for each employee on the largest typical shift; 2 for each court (tennis, racquetball, etc.); and 4 for each hole of golf
Industrial
Light industrial, manufacturing, laboratories, research and development centers, and related accessory offices	1 for each 550 square feet of net floor area
Warehousing	1 for each 1,500 square feet of net floor area; plus 1 for each employee on the largest typical shift

Electric vehicle parking standards.

Parking.

An electric vehicle charging station space may be included in the calculation for minimum required parking spaces required in accordance with § 40-12.05.

Public electric vehicle charging stations are reserved for parking and charging electric vehicles only. Electric vehicles may be parked in any space designated for public parking, subject to the restrictions that would apply to any other vehicle that would park in that space.

Electric vehicle charging stations shall be sized the same as a standard parking space.

Lighting. Site lighting shall be provided where an electric vehicle charging station is installed, unless charging is for daytime purposes only.

Equipment standards and protection.

Vehicle charging station outlets and connector devices shall be no less than 36 inches and no higher than 48 inches from the surface where mounted. Equipment mounted on pedestals, lighting posts, bollards, or other devices shall be designed and located so as not to impede pedestrian travel or create trip hazards on sidewalks.

Adequate vehicle charging stations protection, such as concrete-filled steel bollards, shall be used. Curbing may be used in lieu of bollards, if the vehicle charging station is set back a minimum of 24 inches from the face of the curb.

Signage and notification of station specifics.

Each electric vehicle charging station space may be posted with signage indicating the space is only for electric vehicle charging purposes.

Notification shall be placed on the unit to identify voltage and amperage levels, time of use, fees, safety information and other pertinent information.

Installation and maintenance.

All necessary electrical permits must be obtained.

Electric vehicle charging stations shall be maintained in all respects, including the functioning of the equipment. A phone number or other contact information shall be provided on the equipment for reporting when it is not functioning or other problems are encountered.

Shared park and mixed use parking requirements. Parking for shared parking and mixed-use development shall be determined applying the mixed-use/shared parking methodology established by a recognized industry standard, such as the Urban Land Institute Shared Parking Report. This methodology shall be applied by compiling the required parking for all the proposed uses within the development as they would be required if developed separately, and then incorporating the shared parking calculations to realize efficiencies in complementary uses which can then allow for an overall reduction in required parking. As with traditional shared-parking projects, underlying parking space requirements for each use shall be based on Pittsfield Charter Township parking requirements noted herein or as otherwise modified by the provisions of this article.

The developed parking for mixed-use development may be reduced by the Planning Commission as set forth in § 40-12.05G, provided that the applicant can demonstrate shared parking compatibility.

To demonstrate shared parking compatibility, the applicant shall use a recognized industry standard, such as the Urban Land Institute Shared Parking Report. Underlying parking space requirements for each use shall be based on Pittsfield Charter Township parking requirements noted herein or as otherwise modified by the provisions of this article.

Parking structure design standards and requirements.

Providing of parking within structures or buildings shall serve to increase the value and convenience of related development, and to enhance, rather than detract from, the appearance of the overall development. Structured parking shall be designed and operated in a manner which does not negatively impact the safety and security of the public.

The exterior treatment of the parking structure element of a building complex shall be substantially the same in appearance as that of the main building element, and shall further be designed so that all architectural and vehicular lighting is shielded or screened from view from adjacent properties.

Off-street parking lot design standards and requirements.

Barrier-free parking. Off-street parking lots are required to provide barrier-free parking spaces in accordance with the Michigan Department of Labor, Construction Code Commission Barrier-Free Design Division.

Pavement. All driveways and parking lots shall be hard surfaced with concrete or asphalt and shall have concrete curbing on all sides. Bumper blocks shall not be used in parking lots except where the Planning Commission approves alternative paving materials, such as permeable/grass pavers for overflow, seasonal or low usage parking, based upon the review and recommendation of the Township Engineer.

Drainage. All parking lots shall be graded or drained to dispose of stormwater runoff. The Planning Commission may permit openings in the curbing for drainage purposes. No surface water shall be permitted to drain directly onto adjoining property unless a drainage easement has been obtained. Discharge of drainage into a public right-of-way, county drain or municipal storm sewer shall require written approval from the appropriate local, county, or state agency.

Striping. All parking spaces in paved lots shall be striped.

Dimensions and layout.

Plans for the layout of off-street parking facilities for passenger vehicles shall be in accord with the minimum requirements set forth in Table 12.05.K-1.

Table 12.05.K-1 Parking Dimensions
Parking Angle	Stall Width (feet)	Aisle Width (feet)	Parking Stall Length (feet)	Curb to Curb (feet)
Parallel	9.0	12	24	30.0
30°	9.0	12	20	46.6
45°	9.0	16	20	53.2
60°	9.0	19	20	60.4
90°	9.5	22	20	62.0

All spaces shall be provided adequate access by means of maneuvering lanes. All maneuvering lane widths shall permit one-way traffic movement, except that all two-way movements shall provide a minimum of 22 feet of maneuvering lane.

Lots with one-way traffic flow shall have angled spaces in the direction of flow. The direction of traffic flow shall be indicated by pavement marking and signs. Mixing of ninety-degree and angled spaces in the same parking lot is generally prohibited.

Spaces which permit vehicles to park head-on against the sides of other vehicles are prohibited. Such a change in parking direction should be separated by a landscape island, sidewalk, drive, or other physical feature.

Parking spaces on entrances from major roads or service drives will not be permitted where the parking maneuvers will interfere with traffic flow.

(f)

The ends of parking bays which are adjacent to major drives in a parking lot shall be physically separated from the drive by landscape islands or other physical features.

Illumination. All illumination of parking lots or display areas shall be designed and installed to comply with the requirements of § 40-13.05.

(7)

Landscaping. The parking area shall provide screening, greenbelts, buffers and parking lot landscaping in accordance with § 40-13.02. Where parking abuts required landscape islands or greenbelt areas, landscape islands or greenbelts shall be increased by two feet to accommodate vehicle overhang. The parking space may be decreased by two feet in length if curbing is provided.

(8)

Parking abutting sidewalks. Where a parking space abuts a sidewalk, the minimum sidewalk width shall be seven feet. The parking space may be decreased by two feet in length if curbing is provided.

(9)

Fire apparatus. Fire hydrants or post indicator valves that are located within parking lots shall be placed in landscape islands.

(10)

Construction and maintenance.

Plans and specifications for parking areas shall be submitted and approved following the site plan review requirements of Article IX, Site Plan Review.

Required parking lots shall be installed and completed before issuance of a certificate of occupancy.

Any area once designated as required off-street parking shall not be changed to any other use unless and until equal facilities meeting the standards of this article are provided elsewhere or the parking requirements of the site are changed.

Pavement shall be maintained in good condition. The visibility of pavement markings delineating parking spaces and directional control shall be maintained.

All off-street parking and loading facilities required by this section shall be maintained free of accumulated snow, debris, or other materials which prevent full use and occupancy of such parking facilities, except for temporary periods of no more than five days in the event of heavy rainfall or snowfall.

§ 40-12.06 Off-street loading zone.

Where required.

In connection with every building or part thereof hereafter erected, except single- and two-family dwelling unit structures, there shall be provided on the same lot with such buildings, off-street loading and unloading spaces for uses which customarily receive or distribute material or merchandise by vehicle.

Plans and specifications showing required loading and unloading spaces, including the means of ingress and egress and interior circulation, shall be submitted to the Zoning Administrator for review in conjunction with a site plan, as set forth in Article IX.

Off-street loading-unloading design standards.

Each off-street loading-unloading space shall not be less than the following:

In any residential district a loading-unloading space shall not be less than 10 feet in width and 25 feet in length and, if a roofed space, not less than 14 feet in height.

In any commercial or industrial district a loading-unloading space shall not be less than 10 feet in width and 55 feet in length and, if a roofed space, not less than 15 feet in height.

Subject to the limitations of the next subsection, a loading-unloading space may occupy part of any required side or rear yard; except the side yard along a side street in the case of a corner lot. In no event shall any part of a required front yard be occupied by such loading space.

Any loading-unloading space shall not be closer than 50 feet to any other lot located in any residential district unless wholly within a completely enclosed building or unless enclosed on all sides by a wall, fence or compact planting not less than six feet in height.

In the case of mixed uses on one lot or parcel, the total requirements for off-street loading-unloading facilities shall be the sum of the various uses computed separately.

All off-street loading-unloading facilities that make it necessary to back out directly into a public road shall be prohibited. All maneuvering of trucks, autos and other vehicles shall take place on the site and not within a public right-of-way.

Table of Required Loading Spaces.

Table 12.06.B-1 Off-Street Loading Requirements
Use	Number of Loading Spaces
Institutional, Commercial, and Office Uses
Up to 5,000 square feet gross floor area (GFA)	1
5,001 to 60,000 square feet GFA	1 plus 1 per each additional 20,000 square feet of gross floor area
60,001 square feet GFA and over	3 plus 1 per each additional 50,000 square feet of gross floor area
Industrial Uses
Up to 1,400 square feet GFA	0
1,401 to 20,000 square feet GFA	1
20,001 to 100,000 square feet GFA	1 plus 1 per each additional 20,000 square feet of gross floor area in excess of 20,000 square feet
100,001 square feet GFA and over	5

(7)

Where a use is not specifically mentioned, the requirements of a similar or related use shall apply.

(8)

It is the intent of this chapter to minimize excessive areas of pavement which reduces aesthetic standards and contributes to high rates of stormwater runoff. The Planning Commission may grant a waiver in the loading space requirements set forth in § 40-12.06B(6), if the applicant is able to demonstrate and the Planning Commission is able to determine that such loading space is not required, based on documented evidence, to accommodate the use on a typical day.

§ 40-12.07 Pedestrian access.

Where required. The standards set forth in this section shall apply to all uses that attract nonmotorized and pedestrian traffic.

General standard. The parking and circulation system within each development shall accommodate the movement of vehicles, bicycles, pedestrians, and transit throughout the proposed development and to and from surrounding areas, safely and conveniently, and shall contribute to the attractiveness of the development. The on-site pedestrian system must provide continuity, street crossings, visual interest, and security as defined by the standards in this section.

On-site design standards. To the maximum extent feasible, pedestrian access shall be accommodated in the following manner:

Minimizing pedestrian/vehicular conflicts. Physical separation of pedestrian and vehicular access shall be considered the most effective means of avoiding conflicts and unsafe conditions. Where complete separation of pedestrians and vehicles is not possible, potential hazards shall be minimized by the use of techniques such as special paving, grade separations, pavement marking, signs or striping, bollards, pedestrian safety islands, landscaping, lighting, or other traffic calming measures to clearly delineate pedestrian areas for both day and night use.

Multi-use paths.

Where bicycle paths are required or are specifically part of a site plan and pedestrians and bicyclists share walkways, the pedestrian/bicycle system shall be designated to be wide enough to easily accommodate the amount of pedestrian and bicycle traffic volumes that are anticipated. A minimum width of 10 feet shall be required and shall meet American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) guidelines and applicable Township engineering design standards.

Additional width of up to four feet may be required to accommodate higher volumes of bicycle and pedestrian traffic.

Curb cuts and ramps. Curb cuts and ramps shall be located at convenient, safe locations for the physically disabled, for bicyclists, and for people pushing strollers or carts. The location and design of curb cuts and ramps shall meet the requirements of the Michigan Barrier-Free Code and the Americans With Disabilities Act and, to the extent possible, shall avoid crossing or funneling pedestrian traffic through loading areas, drive-through lanes, and outdoor trash storage/collection areas.

Site amenities. Development plans shall include site amenities that enhance safety and convenience, and promote walking or bicycling as an alternative means of transportation. Site amenities may include bike racks, drinking fountains, canopies, and benches. However, all sites with parking of 10 spaces or greater shall provide a bike rack for at least two bicycles within 50 feet of the building entrance.

Sidewalks.

Sidewalks within the site shall be located and aligned to directly and continuously connect areas or points of pedestrian origin and destination. Such sidewalks shall not be located and aligned solely based on the outline of a parking lot configuration that does not provide such direct pedestrian access. Such connecting sidewalks shall either be grade separated from the parking lot or clearly delineated so as to avoid pedestrian/vehicular conflicts, with a paved surface not less than six feet in width.

Where it is necessary for the pedestrian access to cross maneuvering aisles or internal roadways, the crossings shall emphasize and place priority on pedestrian access and safety. The pedestrian crossings must be well-marked, using such measures as pavement treatments, signs, striping, signals, lighting, pedestrian safety islands, landscaping, and other traffic calming techniques.

Sidewalks shall have a minimum clear width of six feet and shall be constructed in accordance with the Township Engineering Standards.

When sidewalks are located adjacent to a building, space shall be provided for planter boxes, landscape trees, or other landscaping. These items shall be located between the building and the sidewalk or between the sidewalk and the parking area or street. Minimum sidewalk widths shall be maintained.

Off-site design standards.

In general, sidewalks shall be located within the street rights-of-way, one foot from and parallel to the future right-of-way line. Exceptions will be made to accommodate existing conditions, such as trees, utility poles and appurtenances, and distance to curbs.