The following criteria are to be used by the Planning Board, or, in the case of a minor site plan, the City Planner, in judging applications for site plan reviews and shall serve as minimum requirements for approval of the site plan. The site plan must also comply with all other sections of this chapter. The site plan shall be approved unless, in the judgment of the Planning Board, or, in the case of a minor site plan, the City Planner, the applicant is not able to reasonably meet one or more of these standards. In all instances, the burden of proof shall be on the applicant.
A. 
Compliance with all applicable standards. The proposed development shall comply with all good neighbor standards, performance standards, the Zoning Ordinance[1] and, if applicable, standards of the Natural Resource Districts.
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 230, Zoning.
B. 
Other laws. The proposed development satisfies the requirements set forth in this chapter, other local ordinances, and applicable state and federal laws.
C. 
Compatibility with neighboring buildings. The bulk, location, and height of proposed structures are compatible with neighboring properties.
D. 
Natural features. The structures and other improvements are harmonious with the site's natural features, preserve the natural landscape, and minimize grade changes.
E. 
Public safety. Access to the site and structures is adequate for emergency responders and will not create fire hazards or other safety hazards. The assigned street number shall be prominently displayed on the front of the building or on a sign post.
F. 
Lighting. The proposed exterior lighting does not create glare or hazards to motorists, is adequate for safety, and does not damage the value or diminish the usability of adjacent properties.
G. 
Landscaping. Buffers, screens, and on-site landscaping is provided to minimize the impact of parking areas and other features on neighboring property.
H. 
Off-site impacts. The proposed development does not have a significant detrimental effect on the use and peaceful enjoyment of abutting property as a result of noise, vibrations, fumes, odors, dust, or other cause.
I. 
Vehicle circulation and pedestrian access. The provisions for vehicular loading, unloading, parking, and vehicular and pedestrian circulation on the site and onto adjacent public streets do not create hazardous and unsafe conditions.
J. 
Flood hazards. The design conforms with flood hazard protection requirements.
K. 
Wastewater. Adequate provisions are made for disposal of wastewater.
L. 
Solid waste. Adequate provisions are made for disposal of solid waste, including provisions for recycling.
M. 
Stormwater and erosion controls. Adequate provisions are made to control erosion, sedimentation, and stormwater runoff and shall comply with stormwater and erosion control requirements of the City of Saco Zoning Ordinance.[2]
[2]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 230, Zoning.
N. 
Water supply. The proposed water supply is sufficient for the proposed use, and for fire protection purposes. No degradation of service in the area shall occur as a result of the proposed development. The regular maintenance of private fire hydrants shall be documented.
O. 
Hazardous materials. Adequate provisions are made for the transportation, storage and disposal of hazardous substances and materials.
P. 
Wildlife, scenery, and unique and critical areas. The proposed development will not have an adverse impact on significant scenic vistas, significant wildlife habitats, or unique natural areas that could be avoided by reasonable modification of the plan.
Q. 
Traffic. The proposed development will not cause safety hazards and will be consistent with generally accepted complete street standards.
R. 
Water quality. Surface water impacts of the proposed development shall be no greater than allowed and permitted under state law.
S. 
Utilities. The proposed development does not impose an unreasonable burden on sewers, storm drains, water lines, or other public utilities.
T. 
Audio-visual buffer. Setbacks and screening provide a robust audio/visual buffer so as to minimize adverse impacts on nearby properties.
For proposed development located within the Resource Protection Overlay District, Shoreland Zoning Overlay District, or Coastal Development Overlay District, the Planning Board shall find that the proposed development:
A. 
Will maintain safe and healthful conditions;
B. 
Will not result in water pollution, erosion, or sedimentation to surface waters;
C. 
Will adequately provide for the disposal of all wastewater;
D. 
Will not have an adverse impact on spawning grounds, fish, aquatic life, bird or other wildlife habitat;
E. 
Will conserve shore cover and visual, as well as actual, points of access to inland and coastal waters;
F. 
Will protect archaeological and historic resources in accordance with the Comprehensive Plan;
G. 
Will not adversely affect existing commercial fishing or maritime activities;
H. 
Will avoid problems associated with floodplain development and use;
I. 
Is in conformance with the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance[1] and land use standards.
[1]
Editor's Note: See Ch. 230, Zoning.
J. 
If located in a structure, the structure is in an approved subdivision and will not violate any other local ordinance or regulation or any state law which Saco is responsible for enforcing.