Town of Canton, CT Definitions

Is located on the same lot as a principal dwelling unit of greater square footage;

Has cooking facilities; and

Complies with or is otherwise exempt from any applicable building code, fire code and health and safety regulations.

ACRE

An area containing 43,560 square feet.

ADULT-RELATED TERMS

ADULT BOOKSTOREAn establishment in which more than 10% of the inventory, whether for sale or rental, is adult material as defined in these regulations.

ADULT CABARETAn establishment that features live performances that are characterized by the exposure of specific anatomical areas or the depiction or description of specified sexual activities, specified anatomical areas, or obscene activity.

ADULT MATERIAL

Books, magazines, periodicals, films and any other form of media that visually depict specified sexual activities and/or specified anatomical areas; and

Live entertainment featuring exposure of specified anatomical areas.

ADULT MINI-MOTION-PICTURE-THEATERAn enclosed building or part thereof with a capacity of fewer than 50 persons, used for presentation of films, slide shows or other visual projections, 80% or more of which constitute adult material, or any of which depict obscene activities.

ADULT MOTION PICTURE THEATERAn enclosed building or part thereof with a capacity of 50 or more persons, used for presentation of films, slide shows or other visual projections, 80% or more of which constitute adult material, or any of which depict obscene activities.

LINGERIE MODELING STUDIOAn establishment that provides the services of live models modeling lingerie to one or more individuals.

OBSCENE ACTIVITYPatently offensive representations or descriptions of specified anatomical areas, or specified activities, normal or perverted, actual or simulated and/or patently offensive representations or descriptions of masturbation, excretory functions, and lewd exhibitions of the genitals.

AGRICULTURE-RELATED TERMS

SEXUALLY ORIENTED RETAIL STOREAn establishment in which more than 10% of the inventory, whether for sale or rental, is from: a) adult material; b) media or novelty items, gag gifts, toys, and paraphernalia that depict sexual activity, semi-nude bodies or specified anatomical areas; or c) novelty items, gag gifts, toys, and paraphernalia that are designed or marketed for stimulating human genital organs, sexual arousal or sadomasochistic use; except for medical films or publications or art or photographic publications that devote at least 25% of the lineage of each issue to articles and advertisements dealing with subjects of art or photography.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING

See "housing-related terms - affordable."

AGRICULTUREThe growing of crops; raising of livestock; and, the storing processing and sale of agricultural and horticultural products and commodities, including those defined in C.G.S. § 1-1q as incidental to agricultural operations.

AGRICULTURAL BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURESBuildings or structures used in connection with agriculture, including greenhouses, shelter for livestock and storage for farm machinery, equipment and supplies.

FARMA parcel, or parcels, of land containing not less than three acres under single ownership and/or leasehold and used for agriculture.

LIMITED FARMA parcel of land of less than three acres under single ownership or leasehold and used for agriculture.

LIVESTOCKGrazing animals kept either in open fields or structures including cattle, horses, sheep, goats, llamas, alpacas and poultry

FARM STAND, LIMITEDA structure, not more than 200 square feet, located on a residential or agricultural farm for the display and sale of agricultural products raised only on such farm. Sales of such products shall be limited to not more than six months in any calendar year.

FARM STAND, GENERALA structure located on a farm, for the seasonal display and sales of agricultural products. Products sold shall have been grown on such farm or purchased from other farms or farmers markets.

SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD AREA

FARMERS MARKETA seasonal public market use, the primary purpose of which is for farmers to offer for sale produce, vegetables, flowers, orchard products, breads and similar agricultural products directly to consumers. Additional vendors, demonstrations and presentations are permitted as being accessory to such market, however such vendors, or booths, in aggregate shall not account for more than 50% of the market.

AQUIFER

A geologic unit capable of yielding significant amounts of water.

ARBOR

A shelter formed or covered with vines.

See § 470-603.

AS OF RIGHT

Able to be approved in accordance with the terms of a zoning regulation or regulations and without requiring that a public hearing be held, a variance, special permit or special exception be granted or some other discretionary zoning action be taken, other than a determination that a site plan is in conformance with applicable zoning regulations.

[Added 12-21-2022]

ATTIC

The part of a building that is immediately below and wholly or partly within the roof framing and is not a story or a half-story. See "story-related terms."

AUTOMOBILE

A usually four-wheeled automotive vehicle typically with passenger registration or any vehicle with motorcycle registration. For the purpose of these regulations the term "automobile" shall not be construed to include commercial vehicles, construction equipment or equipment designed to carry freight and goods.

Terms beginning with "B."

BALCONIES

A platform projecting from the side of a building and enclosed by a railing.

BASE FLOOD

See "flood-related terms."

BASEMENT

A floor of a building that is either completely or partially below the ground level. A basement shall be counted as a story if the ceiling is more than five feet above average grade. See "story-related terms" and "grade, average."

BED-AND-BREAKFAST

Overnight accommodations and a morning meal in a dwelling unit (B&B) provided to transients for compensation.

BERM

An earthen bank used to provide a visual or noise buffer, or to provide other separation between uses, structures, or parcels.

BOARDING HOUSE

See "housing-related terms."

BUFFER STRIP

A landscaped area used to separate elements, such as a parking lot from a building; and to provide relief from large expanses of pavement within a parking lot, along driveways, along property lines and other areas.

BUILDING

Any structure having a roof supported by columns or walls and intended for shelter, housing or enclosure of persons, animals or property.

BUILDING CODE, STATE

The International Residential Code adopted by the State of Connecticut Legislature.

BUILDING COVERAGE

See "coverage-related terms."

BUILDING HEIGHT

The vertical distance from the finished grade for a building or other structure to the highest of the following elevations on the building or other structure:

The elevation of the highest point of the highest dome, flat, mansard, A-frame, or shed roof, including the top of any parapet;

For gable, gambrel, or hip roofs, the mean elevation of the roof (other than a dormer) with the highest mean elevation between its ridge and its corresponding eave; and

For roofs which are salt box roofs, the mean elevation of the side of the salt box roof (other than a dormer) with the highest mean elevation between its ridge and its corresponding eave.

Diagram 2.1 - Building Height Measurement Diagrams

470 Diag 2-1 Bldg Height Measurement Diags.tif

BUILDING LINE

A line on a parcel of land establishing the minimum setback for a building from a street line. A building line may or may not be coincidental with a street line.

BUILDING PERMIT

A permit for construction issued by a Building Official upon application, authorizing the construction or alteration of a building or structure in accordance with the provisions of the State Building Code.

Terms beginning with "C."

CALIPER

The diameter of a tree trunk measured five feet from the top of the root ball.

CANNABIS-RELATED TERMS

[Added 6-10-2022]

CANNABISMarijuana as defined in § 21a-240, C.G.S.

CANNABIS ESTABLISHMENTA producer, dispensary facility, cultivator, micro-cultivator, retailer, hybrid retailer, food and beverage manufacturer, product manufacturer, product packager and/or delivery service, of cannabis, fully contained within a building.

CULTIVATORA person that is licensed to engage in the cultivation, growing and propagation of the cannabis plant at an establishment with not less than fifteen thousand square feet of grow space.

DISPENSARY FACILITYA place of business where cannabis may be dispensed, sold or distributed in accordance with Chapter 420f, C.G.S. and any regulations adopted thereunder, to qualifying patients and caregivers, and to which the department has issued a dispensary facility license under Chapter 420f, C.G.S. and any regulations adopted thereunder.

CANNABIS FOOD AND BEVERAGE MANUFACTURERA person that is licensed to own and operate a place of business that acquires cannabis for the purpose of creating food and beverages.

HYBRID RETAILERA person that is licensed to purchase cannabis and sell cannabis and medical marijuana products.

MICRO-CULTIVATORA person licensed to engage in the cultivation, growing and propagation of the cannabis plant at an establishment containing not less than 2,000 square feet and not more than 10,000 square feet of grow space, prior to any expansion authorized by the commissioner.

CERTIFICATE OF ZONING COMPLIANCE

PERSONAn individual, partnership, limited liability company, society, association, joint stock company, corporation, estate, receiver, trustee, assignee, referee or any other legal entity and any other person acting in a fiduciary or representative capacity, whether appointed by a court or otherwise, and any combination thereof.

(9)

CANNABIS PRODUCT MANUFACTURERA person, excluding a producer, that is licensed to obtain cannabis, extract and manufacture products exclusive to such license type and who may sell or transfer cannabis and cannabis products to laboratories, research programs and cannabis establishments.

(10)

CANNABIS PRODUCT PACKAGERA person that is licensed to package and label cannabis and cannabis products.

(11)

CANNABIS RETAILERA person, excluding a dispensary facility that is licensed to purchase cannabis and cannabis products from producers, cultivators, product manufacturers and food and beverage manufacturers and to sell cannabis and cannabis products to consumers and research programs.

(12)

LICENSED MEDICAL MARIJUANA DISPENSARYA pharmacist licensed pursuant to Chapter 400j of the C.G.S., who the Department of Consumer Protection has licensed to acquire, possess, distribute, and dispense marijuana pursuant to sections 1 to 15, inclusive, of "An Act Concerning the Palliative Use of Marijuana."

(13)

LICENSED MEDICAL MARIJUANA PRODUCERA person or organization that is licensed as a producer by the Connecticut Department of Consumer Protection under section 10 of an "An Act Concerning the Palliative Use of Marijuana" and whose purpose is to cultivate marijuana for palliative use and selling, delivering, transporting or distributing such marijuana only to licensed dispensaries under sections 1 to 15, inclusive of the above Act.

CEMETERY

Land used or dedicated to the burial of the dead, including mausoleums, and any accessory maintenance facilities, but excluding crematoriums and mortuaries.

A certificate issued by the Zoning Enforcement Officer certifying that a proposed (or existing) use of land or buildings constructed thereon conform to the requirements of these regulations and that the same may be occupied and used as permitted herein.

CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY (CO)

A document issued by the Building Official which allows the occupancy or use of a building and certifies that the structure has been constructed in compliance with applicable codes and ordinances.

C.G.S.

The Connecticut General Statutes, as may be amended.

CLUB

An organization catering exclusively to members and their guests, provided that the purpose of the club is not conducted primarily for gain and that there are no commercial activities except as required generally for the membership and purpose of the club.

COMMERCIAL VEHICLE

A vehicle that requires a commercial registration, or a combination registration where the vehicle is used for commercial purposes, regardless of the gross vehicle weight of such vehicle, or a vehicle which requires a commercial licenses to operate.

COMMISSION

The Planning and Zoning Commission of the Town of Canton.

CONCRETE

Portland cement concrete.

CONSERVATION RESTRICTION

A limitation, whether or not stated in the form of a restriction, easement, covenant or condition, in any deed, will or other instrument executed by or on behalf of the owner of the land described therein, including, but not limited to, the state or any political subdivision of the state, or in any order of taking such land whose purpose is to retain land or water areas predominantly in their natural, scenic or open condition or in agricultural, farming, forest or open space use.

CONVALESCENT HOME

See "housing-related terms."

CORNER ISLAND

See "landscaped-island-related terms."

COVERAGE-RELATED TERMS

COVERAGE, BUILDINGThe total area of a parcel covered by buildings or roofed areas as measured along the outside wall at ground level. (See Table 2.1 and Diagram 2.2 for additional information.)

COVERAGE, IMPERVIOUSThe total area of a parcel covered by impervious surface. (See Table 2.1 and Diagram 2.2 for additional information.)

IMPERVIOUS SURFACEA surface that has been compacted or is covered with a layer of material so that it is highly resistant to infiltration by water (has a percolation rate slower than 120 minutes per inch). Based on the submission of appropriate information by a professional engineer, the Commission may consider the following areas to be less than 100% impervious:

Graveled areas which are driven on; and

Porous pavement, porous pavers and other permeable hard surfaces.

(See Table 2.1 for additional information.)

Diagram 2.2 - Coverage Diagrams

Terms beginning with "D."

DAY CAMP

A building or structure, together with its parcel and its accessory uses, buildings and structures, used as an organized recreational facility for five or more enrolled children other than the children of the resident family, but not furnishing sleeping quarters except for the resident family. See "residential summer camp."

DAY-CARE-RELATED TERMS

DAY CAREThe care of people on a regularly recurring but part-time basis (non-twenty-four-hour basis) in a place other than the person's own residence and which may require a license from the State Department of Health in accordance with C.G.S. § 19a-77, as amended.

FAMILY DAY-CARE HOMEDay care provided in a single-family home for not more than six people and where the principal provider of the services resides on the premises.

DEVELOPMENT-RELATED TERMS

GROUP DAY CAREDay care provided in a single-family home for more than six people but not more than 12 people and where the principal provider of the services resides on the premises.

(c)

DAY-CARE CENTERA facility, other than a public or private school, which offers or provides a program of day care to more than 12 related or unrelated people.

DECK

An unroofed platform either freestanding or attached to a building that is supported by pillars or posts.

DEVELOPMENTAny alteration or man-made change to an improved or unimproved parcel, including but not limited to changes to buildings or structures of any nature, storage of materials, fences or barriers of any nature, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavating, drilling, or clearing of vegetation.

IMPROVED PARCELA parcel which upon which a permanent structure is placed upon, a part of, or is affixed to.

EXTEND, TO MAKE AN EXTENSION

UNIMPROVED PARCELA parcel without building and structures.

DISTRICT

An area of land identified on the official Town of Canton Zoning Map having separate requirements as established by these regulations.

DISTURBED AREA

An area where the ground cover is destroyed or removed leaving the land subject to accelerated erosion.

DONATION DROP BOX

A weather-protected container designed to receive and temporarily hold items that may include but are not limited to clothing, toys, books, and household goods intended to be donated to charity.

DRIVE-THROUGH FACILITY

An establishment that by design, physical facilities, service, or packaging procedures encourages or permits customers to receive services, or obtain goods while remaining in their automobile.

DWELLING

See "housing-related terms."

DWELLING UNIT

See "housing-related terms."

Terms beginning with "E."

EARTH MATERIAL

Topsoil, sand, loam, gravel, peat, stone or any other earth product.

EASEMENT

A grant of one or more property rights by the property owner to and/or for use by the public, a corporation, or another person or entity.

END ISLAND

See "landscaped-island-related terms."

ENLARGE, ENLARGEMENT

Any addition to the floor area of an existing building, an increase in the size of any other structure, or an increase in that portion of a tract of land occupied by an existing use. "To enlarge" is to make an enlargement.

EROSION

The wearing away of land surface by the action of wind, water, gravity, ice, natural action or man-made activities or any combination thereof.

EXCAVATION

Fill or removal in accordance with § 470-705 of these regulations.

An increase or amplification, as distinguished from establishment or inception. "Extension" shall be deemed to include the expansion in the seasons or periods of use of a nonconforming seasonal use, or of a seasonal dwelling on a nonconforming lot; and any increase in the normal days or hours of operation, or any increase in the scope of services offered, of any nonconforming, nonresidential use of land, buildings, or structures.

EXISTING GRADE

See "grade, existing."

Terms beginning with "F."

FAMILY

Any number of individuals living together in a dwelling unit as a single housekeeping unit and doing their cooking on the premises. (See "dwelling unit.")

[Amended 7-15-2022]

FAMILY DAY-CARE HOME

See "day-care-related terms."

FARM

See "agriculture-related terms."

FARM STAND, LIMITED

See "agriculture-related terms."

FARM STAND, GENERAL

See "agriculture-related terms."

FARMERS MARKET

See "agriculture-related terms."

FENCE OR WALL

Any structure of wood, metal, stone, brick or other materials delineating or separating an area within a parcel of land or along property lines. A hedge or other trees, shrubs, or other plants serving a similar function shall not be deemed to constitute a fence or a wall. A wire or other material carrying an electrical current or barbs for the purposes of enclosing or creating a barrier between separate areas shall be considered a fence.

FILL

Earthen material brought to a site from a non-contiguous location so as to create a higher finished elevation anywhere on the site.

FINISHED GRADE

See "grade, finished."

FLOOD RELATED TERMS

See § 470-602D.

FLOOR

The top surface of an enclosed area in a building, including basements and cellars (i.e., top of slab in concrete slab construction or top of wood flooring in wood frame construction).

FOOD TRUCK PARK

A use in which a property permanently establishes an area designed to accommodate (through lease and or rent) three or more mobile vendors at one time that specialize in the preparation and service of food and/or beverages for sale and consumption on site as the principal use of the property. Additional nonfood mobile vendors are allowed as a part of a food truck park as an accessory use.

[Added 7-15-2000]

FOOTPRINT

The surface space occupied by a building or structure, including porches, decks, outdoor kitchens, garages, or any other impervious area, not including patios.

FULL-CUTOFF LUMINAIRE

See "lighting/illumination-related terms."

Terms beginning with "G."

GARAGE

A detached accessory building or portion of a principal building for the parking and storage of automobiles.

GARDEN APARTMENT

Not less than four dwelling units in a building of not more than three stories, or a group of such buildings and uses accessory to such apartments. Dwelling units in garden apartments may be owned by a single owner or individually by tenants or both, but the land shall be held in a unified ownership. The term "garden apartment" shall include a condominium.

GAZEBO

A freestanding roofed structure usually open on all sides.

GRADE, EXISTING

The elevation of the ground level prior to development, construction, filling or excavation.

GRADE, FINISHED

The actual or proposed elevation of the land surface after development. "Finished grade" shall be construed as that excavation or filling which is incidental to construction of the building on the site, and not excavation or filling for the purposes of obtaining greater building height. When the topography around a building or structure varies, the finished grade shall be determined by averaging the ground elevations within 10 feet of the building or structure.

GRADING

Any excavating, grubbing, filling (including hydraulic fill) or stockpiling of earth materials or any combination thereof, including the land in its excavated or filled condition.

GRASS/PAVEMENT BLOCK SYSTEM

Porous concrete or plastic paving blocks that allow the establishment of turf on their surface and the infiltration of stormwater while supporting motor vehicles.

GROSS FLOOR AREA

The total floor area contained within a building, outdoor storage area or outdoor display area, whether covered or not, as measured to the outside surface of the exterior walls or outside perimeter of the display or storage area.

GROUP DAY-CARE HOME

See "day-care-related terms."

GROUP HOME

See "housing-related terms."

Terms beginning with "H."

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL

Any material or waste which may pose a present or potential hazard to human health or the environment when improperly treated, stored, transported, disposed of or otherwise managed and any material which is defined as hazardous within the meaning of any federal, state, or local law, regulations or ordinance including, but not limited to chemicals which are subject to reporting requirements under Title III of the Super Fund Amendments and Reauthorization Act of 1986 (SARA), as amended.

HOME-BASED BUSINESS

Any activity carried out for gain by a resident and conducted as an accessory use in such resident's dwelling unit or on the premises.

HOME-BASED BUSINESS, MAJOR

A home-based business that exceeds a minor home-based business in that such business shall not have more than three nonresident (of the premises) full or part time employees working on the premises. Major home-based businesses are permitted in residential districts by special permit subject to the standards of § 470-303D.

HOME-BASED BUSINESS, MINOR

A home-based business located within the principal building and operated by the resident of the premises, shall not have more than one nonresident full or part-time employee working on the premises. Minor home-based businesses are permitted in residential districts by right, subject to the standards of § 470-303B(2).

HOTEL AND/OR MOTEL

A facility offering transient lodging accommodations to the general public which may include additional services, such as restaurants, meeting rooms, entertainment, and recreational facilities.

HOUSING-RELATED TERMS

ASSISTED LIVINGA facility that provides living units together with areas for communal dining, kitchen, meeting room, laundry and similar support areas for persons desiring assistance with basic "daily living" functions (e.g., dressing, dining, bathing).

AFFORDABLE HOUSINGAs defined in C.G.S. § 8-39a, housing for which persons and families pay 30% or less of their annual income, where such income is less than or equal to the area median family income for the Hartford Primary Metropolitan Statistical Area (PMSA), as determined by the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING APPLICATIONAny application made to the Commission in connection with an affordable housing development by a person who proposes to develop such affordable housing.

AFFORDABLE HOUSING DEVELOPMENTA proposed housing development, as defined by C.G.S. § 8-30g, as may be amended, that provides housing which is a) assisted housing, or b) a set-aside development.

ASSISTED HOUSINGHousing which is receiving, or will receive, financial assistance under any governmental program for the construction or substantial rehabilitation of low- and moderate-income housing, and any housing occupied by persons receiving rental assistance under C.G.S. Chapter 138a or Section 1437f of Title 42 of The United States Code.

BOARDING HOUSEAn owner-occupied dwelling that provides for the renting of rooms or board to not more than three paying guests, other than members of the owner's family.

CONGREGATE HOUSINGAs defined in C.G.S. § 8-119e, as may be amended. (Independent living (units) assisted by congregate meals, housekeeping and personal services who have temporary or periodic difficulties with one or more essential activities of daily living such as feeding, bathing, grooming, dressing or transferring.)

LIGHTING/ILLUMINATION-RELATED TERMS [See Diagram 470-704C(1)]

CONTINUING LIFE CARE COMMUNITYA facility licensed by the State of Connecticut to provide services which meet a need beyond the basic provisions for food, shelter, laundry, including, but not limited to, recreation, physical therapy, health services, and licensed nursing services.

(9)

DWELLINGA building or portion thereof used for residential occupancy.

(10)

DWELLING, SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHEDA dwelling unit for one family and having no party wall in common with an adjacent dwelling. Where a private garage or other accessory structure is attached to such building, it shall be considered as a part thereof.

(11)

DWELLING, SINGLE-FAMILY SEMI-DETACHEDA portion of a building designed for and occupied exclusively as a dwelling unit for one family and having a party wall in common with one adjacent dwelling.

(12)

DWELLING UNITA building or portion thereof which provides complete housekeeping facilities for one family. In general, a dwelling unit shall be inferred when there is a sleeping area, a separate kitchen or kitchen area and a separate bathroom or bathroom area with a toilet and a bathtub/shower.

(13)

GROUP HOMEA community residence as defined in C.G.S. § 17a-220 which is licensed under the provisions of C.G.S. § 17a-227, or a child-care residential facility and which is licensed under C.G.S. §§ 17a-145 to 17a-151, inclusive.

(14)

MULTIPLE DWELLING UNITA building designed and occupied exclusively as a residence for three or more families. This definition includes condominiums, cooperatives, townhouses and garden apartments.

(15)

NONPROFIT HOUSING FOR THE ELDERLYA dwelling unit or set of dwelling units exclusively designed for the needs of single people age 60 or over or couples with at least one member at least 60 or over. This housing shall be either nonprofit or controlled profit under rent subsidy programs and shall conform to the applicable requirements of the sponsoring agencies of the federal, state or Town government.

(16)

NURSING HOMEIn housing-related terms, see "convalescent home."

(17)

SINGLE HOUSEKEEPING UNITCommon use and access to all living and eating areas, bathrooms and food preparation and serving areas.

[Added 7-15-2022]

(18)

TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGA building designed for and occupied exclusively as a residence for two families living independently of each other.

Terms beginning with "I."

IMPERVIOUS COVERAGE

See "coverage-related terms."

IMPERVIOUS SURFACE

See "coverage-related terms."

INTERIOR ISLAND

See "landscaped-island-related terms."

ISLAND

See "landscaped-island-related terms."

Terms beginning with "J."

JUNK

Any scrap, waste, reclaimable material, or debris, whether or not stored, for sale or in the process of being dismantled, destroyed, processed, salvaged, stored, baled, disposed of, or for other use of disposition.

Terms beginning with "K."

KENNEL

See "pet/animal-facilities-related terms."

Terms beginning with "L."

LEDGE WALL

A more or less flat rock protruding from the earth resembling a vertical cliff or slope. [1]

DIRECT LIGHTLight emitted directly from the lamp, off of the reflector or reflector diffuser, or through the refractor or diffuser lens, of a luminaire.

FULL CUT-OFF/FULLY SHIELDED TYPE FIXTUREA luminaire emitting no light above the horizontal plane.

GLARELight emitting from a luminaire with intensity great enough to reduce a viewer's ability to see, may cause visual discomfort, to the viewer and in extreme cases causing momentary blindness.

HEIGHT OF LUMINAIRESThe height of luminaires shall be the vertical distance from the ground directly below the centerline of the luminaire to the lowest direct-light-emitting part of the luminaire.

INDIRECT LIGHTINGDirect light that has been reflected or has scattered off of other surfaces.

ISODIAGRAMA graphical representation of points of equal illuminance used to show the level and evenness of a lighting design and to show how light fixtures will perform on a given site.

LANDSCAPE LIGHTINGLuminaires mounted in or at grade (but not more than three feet above grade) and used solely for landscape or walkway rather than any area lighting.

LAMPThe light source component of luminaires that produces the actual light.

(9)

LIGHTING PLANA plan showing the location, height above grade, type of illumination, type of fixture, the source lumens, and the luminous area for each source of light propose.

(10)

LIGHT POLLUTIONStray or reflected light that is emitted into the atmosphere, beyond the 90° horizontal plane. Dust, water, vapor and other pollutants reflect this light causing unwanted sky-glow.

(11)

LIGHT STANDARDA pole for mounting luminaires.

(12)

LIGHT TRESPASSLight from an artificial light source that is intruding into an area not owned by the owner of the property upon which the light source is located, or where such light otherwise does not belong.

(13)

LUMINAIREA complete lighting system, and includes a lamp or lamps, standards and fixtures.

(14)

OUTDOOR LIGHTINGThe night-time illumination of an outside area or object by any man-made device located outdoors that produces light by any means.

(15)

UPLIGHTINGAny light source that distributes illumination above a 90° horizontal plane.

LIVESTOCK

See "agriculture-related terms."

LOADING SPACE

An off-street space or berth used for the loading or unloading of cargo, products, or materials from vehicles.

LODGING

The use of a dwelling or hotel/motel for sleep, rest, shelter, and access to one or more common household functions such as eating, bathrooms, food preparation, and serving areas.

[Added 7-15-2022]

LOT-RELATED TERMS

LOTA tract of land owned and recorded, and described within the recorded document, as a separate piece of land.

LOT, CORNERA lot located at the intersection of two or more streets.

LOT, FRONTA lot which has the required frontage on a street.

LOT, REARA lot which has less than the required frontage on a street and of which the buildable area is located generally to the rear of other lots having frontage on the same street as said lot and having access to the street via an access way or a private right-of-way.

PARCELSee "lot."

Diagram 2.3 - Lot Types Diagram

LOT AREA

The horizontal area within the lot lines, provided that:

Land used for streets, highways, easement for vehicular access, public or private right-of-way for vehicles, including street rights of way, shall be excluded;

Land or easements used for public utilities, and drainage may be included;

Seventy-five percent of the area used for compliance with the minimum lot area requirement shall be unencumbered by wetlands, watercourses, special flood hazard areas, or slopes greater than 20%; and

Land in two or more zoning districts may be used to satisfy a minimum lot area requirement, provided that the requirement of the district requiring the largest lot area is met, but no land in a residence district shall be used to satisfy a lot area requirement in any other district.

LOT FRONTAGE

The length measured along the side of the lot abutting the street (the front lot line). In the case of a corner lot, frontage may be measured along both front lot lines. The minimum frontage for a front lot may be measured along the front yard setback line when:

The side lot lines converge toward the street; and

The average width of the lot exceeds the frontage requirement for the district in which it is located.

LOT-LINE-RELATED TERMS

LOT LINEThe property lines bounding a lot as defined herein.

LOT LINE, FRONTA lot line separating a lot from a street.

MASSAGE THERAPY ESTABLISHMENT

LOT LINE, REARA lot line which is most generally opposite the longest front lot line except that, on a pie-shaped lot or a corner lot, any lot line adjacent to the front lot line shall not be considered to be a rear lot line.

(c)

LOT LINE, SIDEAny lot line which is not a front lot line or a rear lot line, as defined herein.

Diagram 2.4 - Lot Line Diagram

[1]

Editor's Note: The former definitions of "licensed medical marijuana producer," and "licensed medical marijuana dispensary," which immediately followed, were moved to be included with "cannabis-related terms" 6-10-2022.

Terms beginning with "M."

MANUFACTURED HOUSING

Factory-built, single-family structures that meet the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards Act (42 U.S.C. § 5401), commonly known as the HUD (U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development) code.

MARIJUANA

See "licensed medical marijuana dispensary." See "licensed medical marijuana producer."

MASSAGE THERAPY

The manipulation of body muscle or tissue by range of motion, nonspecific stretching, rubbing, stroking, kneading, or tapping, by hand or mechanical device. Massage therapy may include the use of oil, ice, hot and cold packs, tub shower, steam, dry heat, or cabinet baths for the purpose of maintaining good mental and/or physical health and condition.

Any building, room, place, or establishment other than a regularly licensed hospital or dispensary where nonmedical and nonsurgical manipulative exercises are practiced on the human body for other than cosmetic or beautifying purposes with or without the use of mechanical or bathing devices by anyone not a physician or surgeon or similarly registered status.

MINIMUM SQUARE

A square area that will fit within the lot without utilizing lands designated as wetlands, watercourses, or slopes greater than 20%.

Diagram 2.5 - Minimum Square

MOBILE VENDOR/MOBILE VENDING OPERATION

Any vehicle or conveyance-mounted unit, cart, trailer, kiosk or other similar apparatus, used to store, prepare, display or serve food and/or beverages, and or other merchandise or service intended primarily for immediate use, consumption, or service, on site or in close proximity, sited on public or private property for a limited duration lasting longer than 10 minutes. A mobile vendor shall be mounted on wheels or other method of moveable design, and must be readily moveable. If the operation is not immediately mobile, it shall be considered a "building" or "structure" and shall be required to comply with applicable regulations for such.

[Added 7-15-2022]

MOTEL

See "hotel."

MOTOR VEHICLE

A motor vehicle as defined per C.G.S. 14-1, as amended.

MULTIFAMILY BUILDING

See "housing-related terms."

Terms beginning with "N."

NEW CONSTRUCTION

See "flood-related terms."

NONCONFORMING

Any structure, parcel or use legally existing at the time of the adoption of these regulations, as may be amended, which does not conform to the provisions of these regulations.

NONPROFIT HOUSING FOR THE ELDERLY

See "housing-related terms."

NURSING HOME/CONVALESCENT HOME

A facility that provides primarily in-patient care, treatment and/or rehabilitation services for persons recovering from illness or injury and/or persons who require regular assistance in personal care, including dressing, eating and health related matters but do not require the degree of care that is provided by a hospital.

Terms beginning with "O."

OPEN SPACE

Land protected from development by legislation, dedication, conservation or other legal means, which shall be used only for recreational, conservation, educational, agricultural, or other similar purposes.

OPEN SPACE (CLUSTERED) SUBDIVISION

A subdivision or resubdivision concentrating lots on a particular portion of a parcel so that at least 1/3 of the parcel remains as open space to be used exclusively for recreational, conservation, educational, agricultural or other similar purposes except that nothing herein shall prevent the commission from requiring more than 1/3 open space in any particular open space subdivision.

OUTDOOR STORAGE

The keeping, in an unenclosed area, of any goods, junk, material, equipment, merchandise, or vehicles in the same place for more than 24 hours.

OUTDOOR DINING

Outdoor food and beverage services as authorized under C.G.S. § 8-1cc.

[Added 8-30-2023]

OUTDOOR DISPLAY

The display of merchandise or products outside of a building or structure, including sidewalk sales and sidewalk displays, and outdoor dining.

OUTDOOR WOOD-BURNING FURNACES

An accessory structure or appliance, as defined by C.G.S. § 22a-174k as amended, designed to be located outside living space ordinarily used for human habitation and designed to transfer or provide heat, via liquid or other means, through the burning of wood or solid waste, for heating spaces other than where such structure or appliance is located, any other structure or appliance on the premises, or for heating domestic, swimming pool, hot tub or Jacuzzi water. "Outdoor wood-burning furnace" does not include a fire pit, wood-fired barbecue or chiminea.

Terms beginning with "P."

PARAPET

A low protective wall or railing along the edge of a roof.

PARCEL

See "lot."

PARKING BAY

A unit of parking consisting of a driveway together with the adjacent parking rows accessed directly from the driveway.

PARKING LOT AREA

The aggregate area of all parking spaces, parking rows, parking bays, driveways servicing parking spaces, access drives, landscaped islands (including end islands, interior islands, and corner islands), and buffer strips between bays of parking. Paved areas that primarily access service areas are excluded.

PARKING ROW

A unit of parking consisting of a single row of contiguous parking stalls and planting islands.

PARKING STALL

A unit of parking accommodating one parked vehicle.

PATIO

An area near a building, often paved (landscape pavers/stone/etc.), used for outdoor sitting.

PATIO, OPEN

A patio that is open to the sky.

PATIO, CLOSED

A patio with a roof or covering designed to protect individuals from the elements. When attached to a permanent building it might be considered a porch.

PERGOLA

A structure consisting of posts supporting an open roof in the form of a trellis.

PERMIT

Written governmental permission issued by an authorized official, empowering the holder thereof to do some act not allowed without such authorization.

PERSONAL SERVICE BUSINESS

See "service business, personal."

PET/ANIMAL-FACILITIES-RELATED TERMS

KENNELA place at which:

One or more dogs are kept for renumeration or compensation of any kind except for a veterinary hospital which may keep dogs incidental to their medical treatment; or

Two or more dogs not registered to a resident of the property are kept.

PET TRAINING AND DAY-CARE FACILITYA commercial establishment at which common household pets are kept, maintained, or trained for monetary remuneration, and shall not include overnight boarding. A pet training or day-care facility shall not include a kennel, pet store or veterinary hospital.

PLAN OF CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT

VETERINARY HOSPITALA place where animals are given medical care and the boarding of animals is limited to short-term care accessory to the hospital use.

PLACE OF WORSHIP

A building or group of buildings primarily used for the conduct of religious services and accessory uses and that is controlled by a religious body organized to sustain public worship and recognized as such for nonprofit status by the Internal Revenue Service.

The Plan of Conservation and Development adopted by the Town of Canton, as amended, and all adopted detail portions of the Plan of Conservation and Development referred to in C.G.S. § 8-23 as amended.

PORCH

A portion of a building which has a roof and a floor and is not enclosed by full walls.

PORCH, CLOSED

A porch with screened-in or glassed-in openings.

PORCH, OPEN

A porch that is open to the air without screened-in or glassed-in openings.

PRESERVATION RESTRICTION

A limitation, whether or not stated in the form of a restriction, easement, covenant or condition, contained in any deed, will or other instrument executed by or on behalf of the owner of land, including, but not limited to, the state or any political subdivision of the state, or contained in any order of taking of such land whose purpose is to preserve historically significant structures or sites.

PRINCIPAL- AND ACCESSORY-RELATED TERMS

PRINCIPAL BUILDINGThe primary or predominant building on a parcel.

PRINCIPAL USEThe primary or predominant use of a parcel.

ACCESSORY BUILDINGA building or structure subordinate and clearly incidental to the principal building or structure on the same parcel.

ACCESSORY DWELLING UNITA secondary dwelling unit, accessory to the principal dwelling unit on the same parcel. See "housing."

PROFESSIONAL ARCHITECT, ENGINEER, SURVEYOR

ACCESSORY USEA use customarily incidental and clearly subordinate to a principal use on the same parcel.

An architect, engineer, or surveyor licensed by the State of Connecticut.

PROFESSIONAL OFFICE

The office of recognized professions, such as doctors, lawyers, dentists, architects, engineers, artists, musicians, designers, teachers, and others who through training or experience are qualified to perform services of a professional nature.

PROPERTY

See "lot." See "parcel."

PUBLIC WORKS FACILITY

Land and/or buildings used by a municipal agency for the storage of materials and supplies used in the maintenance of public facilities, equipment, vehicles, streets or buildings, the storage, care, and maintenance of equipment and vehicles for the maintenance of public facilities, infrastructure, and buildings, and/or the support of employees. Examples of uses include, without limitation, offices; employee welfare facilities (locker, showers, toilet, lunch/break rooms, and training facilities); automobile, vehicle, equipment, and heavy equipment service facilities; workshop facilities; automobile, vehicle, equipment, and heavy equipment storage facilities; material storage facilities; yard storage facilities; fueling stations for municipal vehicles and equipment, and all other ancillary support structures required to meet the needs of the municipal or state agency.

(Reserved)

Terms beginning with "R."

RECREATIONAL FACILITY

A place designed and equipped for the conduct of sports and leisure-time activities.

RECYCLING FACILITY

Land and structures where recycling of glass, metals, paper products, batteries, household hazardous waste, fertilizers and other items are removed from the waste stream for recycling or reuse.

RESIDENTIAL SUMMER CAMP

A recreational camp operation including overnight and daytime camping in which the participants:

Live in "cabins" or other structures temporarily; and

Engage in customary youth camping activities such as, sports, water-based recreational activities, "arts and crafts," team-building activities, outdoor pursuits, adventure type activities, group activities, communal eating, and other activities associated with recreational camping. See "day camp."

RESTAURANT

An establishment used principally for the preparation and service of food and beverages for consumption either on or off the premises.

RESTAURANT, CLASS I

A restaurant that meets all of the following criteria:

Gross floor area is 1,500 square feet or less;

Seating capacity is 20 or less; and

Food and beverages served on the premises are actually or expected to be consumed primarily off the premises.

RESTAURANT, CLASS II

A restaurant that meets all of the following criteria:

Gross floor area is 2,000 square feet or less;

Seating capacity is 50 or less; and

RETAIL STORE, SEXUALLY ORIENTED

Food and beverages served on the premises are actually or expected to be consumed primarily on the premises.

RESTAURANT, CLASS III

A restaurant that does not meet all of the criteria of either a Class I restaurant or a Class II restaurant.

RETAIL ESTABLISHMENT

Any establishment with 60% or more of the gross floor area devoted to the sale or rental of goods or merchandise to the public.

See "adult-related terms."

RETAINING WALL

A structure constructed and erected between lands of different elevations to stabilize the surfaces, prevent erosion, and/or to protect structures.

RIP-RAP

Large stones used to stabilize earthen slopes to prevent erosion.

Terms beginning with "S."

SCHOOL

An institution whose primary function is the instruction of academic subjects to adults or children. The word "school" shall not be deemed to include an institution which is primarily a summer or winter camp, whose main function is enjoyment of physical activities with or without instruction, nor any other institution which has a primary function of providing recreational facilities.

SEDIMENT

Solid material, either mineral or organic, that is in suspension, is transported, or has been moved from its site of origin by erosion.

SERVICE AREA

The area of a site or building customarily used for the loading and/or unloading of product, and for the collection and temporary storage of refuse commonly enclosed in dumpster units or compacting units.

SERVICE BUSINESSES

Establishments primarily engaged in providing services rather than the sale of products to individuals, business, industry, government, and other enterprises. Examples include but are not limited to personal, business, repair, and amusement services; educational services; and membership organizations.

SEXUALLY ORIENTED RETAIL STORE

PERSONAL SERVICE BUSINESSA service business whose principal use is the provision of services of a personal nature relating to the repair, adjustment, alteration, cleaning or servicing of items owned by or being provided to an individual customer including: barbershops; beauty salons; nail salons; day spas not including massage therapy; dry-cleaning establishments; clothing rental; photographic studios; garment repair; tailoring; shoe repair; or other businesses primarily engaged in the provision of services of a personal and/or domestic nature rather than the sale of products. (Day care, tattooing, and massage therapy, and any other uses specifically referenced elsewhere by the name of such use, shall not be included as a personal services business.)

SETBACK

See "yard setback."

See "adult-related terms."

Square foot or square feet.

SHOPPING CART CORRAL

An enclosure for containing shopping carts within a parking lot.

SHORT-TERM DWELLING RENTAL

The temporary rental of part or all of a dwelling unit for fewer than 30 consecutive nights at a time.

[Added 7-15-2022]

SIDEWALK DISPLAY

The outdoor display of merchandise for sale by a business use. See "outdoor displays."

SIDEWALK SALES

Retails sales of a short-term and temporary nature conducted on the sidewalk property. See "outdoor displays."

SIGN-RELATED TERMS (See Appendix 4 [2] for photographic descriptions.)

SIGNAny banner, billboard, display, flag, illumination, illustration, insignia, lettering, logo, pennant, picture, structure or other device, however made, displayed, painted, supported or attached, intended for use for the purpose of advertisement, identification, publicity or notice when visible from any street or from any lot other than the lot on which the sign is located and either 1) located out-of-doors or 2) located indoors and intended to be viewed from outside the building, or any building feature, including with limitation, roof, awning, or other special illumination, special colors or effects, or building or roof lines which serve to identify the use or occupancy of any building or site through a recognized motif or symbol. The term "sign" includes vehicle signs. However, it shall not include any flag, pennant or insignia of any governmental unit, any traffic or directional signs located within the right-of-way of a street when authorized by the Town of Canton or State of Connecticut.

SIGN, A-FRAMEAn upright, rigid supporting frame in the form of a triangle or an inverted V.

SOIL EROSION AND SEDIMENT CONTROL PLAN

SIGN, AREAThe area of a sign shall be the entire area encompassed by the perimeter of the sign consisting of the best fit of not more than five rectangles, triangles or circles. Any sign may be double facing and only one face shall be counted in determining conformity to sign area limitations. The area of a three-dimensional sign shall be the sum of all sides or sign faces divided by two. [See Diagrams 470-703E(1) and 470-703E(2).]

(c)

SIGN, ARCADEA sign suspended above and perpendicular to a covered sidewalk in a multitenant building, identifying an establishment to pedestrians on the sidewalk.

(d)

SIGN, AWNINGFixed or movable devices attached to the building wall, constructed of fabric or metal and which are located above the storefront and designed to shade the sidewalk and storefront, and may include sign graphics or text printed on the exposed surfaces.

(e)

SIGN, BARBER POLEA striped, oftentimes rotating, cylindrical sign used to identify a hair cutting establishment.

(f)

SIGN, CHANNEL-LITA sign with "channel" letters using a light source fully contained within the "channel" constructed letters having a translucent face and opaque sides. Alternatively the letters may have an opaque face and translucent sides. No part of the letter may be open or transparent. "Channel" letters may be surface-mounted or pin-mounted or bracketed off the wall surface or the face of the sign box.

(g)

SIGN, CONSTRUCTIONA temporary sign erected on a site which designates individuals or firms relating to a construction project on the premises.

(h)

SIGN, DIRECTIONALA sign which improves the flow and safety of vehicular and pedestrian circulation on a site through the use of messages such as parking in rear, drive through or shipping and receiving.

(i)

SIGN, FLASHINGAny sign in which or upon which artificial light is not maintained stationary and constant in intensity and color at all times and specifically including signs that scroll, alternate, or otherwise move or change a message using lighting, screens, projections, or moving parts of any kind.

(j)

SIGN, GOVERNMENTALA sign erected and maintained pursuant to and in discharge of any governmental functions or required by law, ordinance, or other governmental regulations.

(k)

SIGN, GROUNDA freestanding sign placed on the ground or supported by a structure other than a building, such as an ornamental wall or fence.

(l)

SIGN, HALO ILLUMINATEDA sign with individual and dimensional letters that is back lit and designed so no light projects through the sign and the light source is fully obscured within the letters of the sign.

(m)

SIGN, INDIRECTLY ILLUMINATEDA sign illuminated either by an external, artificial light source projected upon the sign surface (floodlighting) or an artificial light source projected at the rear of an opaque surface (halo lighting).

(n)

SIGN, INTERNALLY ILLUMINATEDA sign illuminated by an internal, artificial light source (typically fluorescent, LED or incandescent light bulbs) which passes through a translucent surface, illuminating the copy and/or background.

(o)

SIGN, MESSAGE BOARD/BULLETIN BOARDA fixed wall or ground sign used to identify a business key products, services, or events, often seasonal or sale-related, but the message is allowed to be changed in conformance with these regulations, without requiring a sign permit each time the message is changed.

(p)

SIGN, MENU BOARDA sign that identifies specific products or services that may be ordered and obtained at a business, including sales at a drive-through facility.

(q)

SIGN, MODEL GROUNDA ground sign which is pre-approved by the Zoning Commission for immediate use as permitted in § 470-703D(1)(e).

(r)

SIGN, MOVINGAny sign, or any portion of any sign, which is not fixed or stationary, or which is capable of any movement whatsoever; excluding barber poles and clocks.

(s)

SIGN, MULTITENANTA freestanding sign that identifies two or more establishments within a place of business.

(t)

SIGN, NEONA sign made of shaped glass tubing, illuminated by electrically charged neon or similar inert gases.

(u)

SIGN, OFF-SITE PROMOTIONAL MODEL GROUNDA promotional model ground sign limited to advertising either a bed-and-breakfast establishment or the sale of agricultural goods on a residence district lot that is remotely located from the lot on which the sign is to be placed, as permitted in § 470-703D(1)(f).

(v)

SIGN, OFF-PREMISES (BILLBOARDS)A sign owned or operated by any person, firm or corporation engaged in the business of outdoor advertising for compensation for the use of such signs, or any sign advertising a commodity or activity not sold, produced or conducted on the lot.

(w)

SIGN, OPENA flag or window sign indicating that an establishment is open for business.

(x)

SIGN, POLITICALA temporary sign announcing or supporting political candidate or issues in connection with any national state, or local election.

(y)

SIGN, PROMOTIONAL MODEL GROUNDA ground sign used to identify a business' key products, often seasonal or sale-related. Posts are anchored for public safety, but signage is changeable, as permitted in § 470-703D(1)(f).

(z)

SIGN, PUBLIC INTERESTA temporary ground sign that advertises household sales, civic and philanthropic events.

(aa)

SIGN, PUSH THROUGHA sign with "push-through" letters which are translucent acrylic plastic letters inserted through the opaque face of a light cabinet; the face of the letters may be opaque or translucent. The fully contained light source within the light cabinet causes the translucent letter to glow and illuminates the face of the light box.

(bb)

SIGN, REAL ESTATEA temporary ground sign offering for sale or lease the property on which it is located or advertising a real estate development on the premises.

(cc)

SIGN, ROOFA sign that is mounted on the roof of a building or that is wholly dependent upon a building for support and that project above the eave line of a building with a gambrel, gable, or hip roof.

(dd)

SIGN, SELF-STANDINGA sign that is a self-supported structure, erected on the ground and not accessory to any building or structure on the lot.

(ee)

SIGN, SKYAny sign suspended in the air by means of a balloon or other lighter-than-air device.

(ff)

SIGN, THREE DIMENSIONALSigns that consist of, or have attached to them, one or more three-dimensional objects (i.e., balls, cubes, clusters of objects, sculpture, or statue-like trademarks).

(gg)

SIGN, VEHICLEAny permanent or temporary sign affixed to, painted on, or placed in or upon any parked vehicle, parked trailer, or other parked device capable of being towed, which is obviously and conspicuously parked so as to advertise the business to the passing motorist or pedestrian; and the primary purpose of which is to provide additional on-lot signage, or is to serve the function of an outdoor advertising sign.

[1]

The primary purpose of such vehicle or equipment shall be presumed to be for the display of such signage if the vehicle/equipment meets one or more of the following:

[a]

Not in operating condition;

[b]

Not currently registered or licensed to operate on public streets;

[c]

Not actively used in the daily function of the business to which the signs relate;

[d]

Not properly parked in a designated parking space; or

[e]

Used primarily as a static display for the display of such signage, except as otherwise authorized in Subsection (gg)[1][d] in this definition.

[2]

Vehicles and equipment engaged in active construction projects and the on-premises storage of equipment and vehicles offered to the general public for rent or lease shall not be considered to be vehicle signs.

(hh)

SIGN, WALL OR ATTACHEDA sign mounted on the wall of a building.

(ii)

SIGN, WELCOME NEW BUSINESS MODEL GROUNDA temporary ground sign pre-approved by the Zoning Commission for a new business to use before permanent signage is erected.

(jj)

SIGN, WINDOWA sign painted on, affixed to, or placed within three feet of the interior face of a window or door and visible from the exterior.

SOIL

Any unconsolidated mineral or organic material of any origin.

An overall approach that minimizes soil erosion and sedimentation resulting from development and includes, but is not limited to, a map and narrative.

SPECIAL PERMIT

A permit that, upon approval by the Commission, allows a property owner to put his property to a use under conditions specified in these regulations.

STORY-RELATED TERMS

STORYThe portion of a building, which is between the surface of a floor and the surface of the next floor above or, in its absence, the ceiling or roof above. A basement shall be counted as a story if the ceiling is more than five feet above the finished grade. An area under a roof shall not be considered a story or a half-story if the area under the roof (including dormers) has headroom of seven feet or more for 25% or less of the total floor area.

STORY, HALFA space under a sloping roof where the area with headroom of seven feet or more occupies more than 25% but less than 50% of the total floor area.

Diagram 2.6 - Story Diagram

STREET

Any way which is an existing Town or state highway or any way shown as a proposed public or private highway on a recorded subdivision map duly approved by the Planning Commission or Planning and Zoning Commission, which subdivision or portion thereof has not expired or otherwise been determined to be void.

STREET LINE

The dividing line between the street right-of-way and the parcel of land. Where such line has not been established, it is deemed for the purposes of these regulations to be a line parallel to and 25 feet distant from the center line of the traveled way or paved surface except at cul-de-sacs, turnarounds, and intersections where this distance may be increased by the Commission.

STRUCTURE

Anything constructed or erected which requires location on the ground or attachment to something having location on the ground. For the Floodplain District, see the definition in § 470-603 of these regulations.

SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT

See "flood-related terms."

[2]

Editor's Note: See Ch. 470APP, Article 4.

Terms beginning with "T."

TATTOOING/TATTOO PARLOR

An establishment whose principal business activity is the practice of one or more of the following: placing of designs, letters, figures, symbols, or other marks upon or under the skin of any person, using ink or other substances that result in the permanent coloration of the skin by means of the use of needles or other instruments designed to contact or puncture the skin.

TERRACE

An embankment with a level or nearly level top.

TERRACE, LANDSCAPED

An embankment with grass, flowers, or shrubbery planted on the level or nearly level top.

TRAILER-RELATED TERMS

TRAVEL TRAILERA vehicular, portable structure built on a chassis, designed to be used as a temporary dwelling for travel, camping, recreational and vacation uses, and when equipped for the road shall have a body width not exceeding eight feet and which shall be eligible to be licensed/registered and insured for highway use.

PICK-UP COACH OR PICK-UP CAMPERA structure designed primarily to be mounted on a pick-up or truck chassis and with sufficient equipment to render it suitable for use as a temporary dwelling for travel, camping, recreational and vacation uses only, and which shall be eligible to be licensed/registered and insured for highway use.

MOTORIZED CAMPER/RECREATIONAL VEHICLEA portable dwelling designed and constructed as an integral part of a self-propelled vehicle to be used as a temporary dwelling for travel, camping, recreational and vacation uses, and which shall be eligible to be licensed/registered and insured for highway use.

TENT TRAILERA folding structure, mounted on wheels to be used as a temporary dwelling for travel, camping, recreational and vacation uses, and which is eligible to be licensed/registered and insured for highway use.

UTILITY TRAILERA box, boat, horse or flat trailer designed to be towed by a noncommercial vehicle.

COMMERCIAL TRAILERIs of a larger and heavier type trailer and shall include mobile office trailers, and trailers used as part of a business operation.

TRELLIS

A frame of latticework used especially for climbing plants.

TOWN

The Town of Canton, Connecticut.

Terms beginning with "U."

UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT PLAN

Two or more contiguous parcels developed, operated and maintained as a single development.

USE

The purpose or activity for which land or buildings are designed, arranged, intended, occupied and/or maintained.

Terms beginning with "V."

VETERINARY HOSPITAL

See "pet/animal facilities."

Terms beginning with "W."

WATERCOURSE

As defined in C.G.S. § 22a-38, as amended.

WETLAND

As defined in C.G.S. § 22a-38, as amended.

WPCA

Town of Canton Water Pollution Control Authority.

(Reserved)

Terms beginning with "Y."

YARD

An area on the same property with a building which lies between said building and the nearest lot line (i.e., the area defined from the structure outward). Also see "yard setback."

YARD, FRONTThe area extending across the full width of a lot from the principal building or any covered porch, garage or addition which extends from the principal building to the front lot line.

YARD, REARThe area extending across the full width of a parcel from the principal building or any covered porch, garage or addition which extends from the principal building to the lot line most opposite the front lot line.

YARD, SIDEThe area from the principal building or any covered porch, garage or addition which extends from the principal building to a side lot line and located between the front yard and the rear yard.

Diagram 2.7 - "Yard" Location Diagram

YARD, MINIMUM SETBACK

The minimum distance required to be provided between a lot line and a building as measured from the appropriate lot line. (i.e., an area defined from the property line inward). Also see "yard." (See Table 2.2 for exceptions to the minimum yard setback.)

YARD SETBACK, CORNER LOTSA "corner lot" shall have two front yard setbacks and two side yard setbacks.