A. 
Permitted uses: Commercial.
(1) 
Retail sale of food, non-alcoholic beverages, drugs, clothing, jewelry, hardware, stationery, specialty items, household appliances or furnishings.
(2) 
Full service restaurants or clubs; service of alcohol is subject to § 30-9.5, Alcoholic liquors and cannabis retailers.
(3) 
Non-full service restaurants; drive-up service windows are subject to § 30-4.1C(15).
(4) 
Any professional or business office, bank, studio or other financial institution.
(5) 
Wholesale showroom with storage limited to floor samples only.
(6) 
Indoor movie theatres.
(7) 
Signs subject to § 30-10.4.
(8) 
Accessory uses customarily incidental to the listed uses.
(9) 
Personal convenience services limited to barbershops, beauty salons, and dry cleaning establishments.
(10) 
Medical or research laboratory.
(11) 
Day care centers.
(12) 
Salesroom or display area for retail sale of new vehicles or rental of vehicles, including vehicle sale lots for display of new vehicles.
(13) 
Retail or wholesale sale of used vehicles shall be permitted only when affiliated with and located within 300 feet measured from the closest point of the property to the property used as a display area for retail sale of new vehicles.
(14) 
Commercial parking facility with site plan approval.
(15) 
Multi-story, climate controlled indoor self-storage building, provided all services are contained within the building, the building contains at least 50,000 sq. ft. of floor area, the building exterior is designed with architectural styling and fenestration, and no more than six overhead loading doors are visible from the public street(s) on which the building and lot front unless screened from view. Building height is subject to the provisions of § 30-4.1C(13)(g) of these regulations.
B. 
Special exceptions: Commercial. The following uses may be permitted when granted a special exception by the Zoning Board of Appeals:
(1) 
Laundromats serviced by public sewers.
(2) 
Personal convenience services not listed above as a permit use.
C. 
Special permits: Commercial. The following uses may be permitted when granted a Special Permit by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
(1) 
Mixed Commercial and Multi-Family Uses provided a parcel contains a minimum of five acres and at least 25% of the total lot area is reserved for commercial development, then multi-family development shall be permitted on said parcel subject to the following:
(a) 
The portion of the lot devoted to multi-family use must comply with § 30-8.7E and F of the Vernon Zoning Regulations.
(b) 
The site shall be entirely serviced by public sewers and by public water.
(2) 
Funeral homes.
(3) 
Hotels or motels.
(4) 
Hospitals, places of worship, schools, public libraries, public utility structures, governmental buildings, cemeteries, golf courses, country clubs, non-profit recreational facilities.
(5) 
Any retail outlet dealing in merchandise or service similar to the items listed above as permitted uses.
(6) 
Commercial education or recreational activities.
(7) 
Telecommunication towers.
(8) 
Residential facilities for special education.
(9) 
Cannabis Retailer, subject to § 30-9.5.
(10) 
Seller or server of alcoholic beverages unless considered an excluded establishment as stated in § 30-9.5A.
(11) 
Commercial kennel, as defined in Article 2, provided that such a facility is located no closer than 300 feet from a residence or residential district. The 300 feet separation requirement shall not apply to veterinary facilities housed inside a building.
(12) 
General automotive repairing and servicing. The sale of gasoline and/or used vehicles is not permitted with this use.
(13) 
In addition to any other required permits or approvals, a Special Permit shall be required for any use or development in this zone when any of the following thresholds are met for any parcel or development.
(a) 
More than 40 off-street spaces are required or;
(b) 
The proposed structure is within 200 feet of a residential structure or;
(c) 
The proposed development has any off-street parking or loading spaces within 100 feet of a residential structure or;
(d) 
The aggregate square footage for all structures on any parcel exceeds 25,000;
(e) 
This section shall not apply to developments or subsequent modifications to projects approved by the Commission when said original approvals were obtained prior to March 1, 1992.
(f) 
Lot coverage of 60% or more. In order to grant this Special Permit the Commission must find that this additional coverage will not increase the off site stormwater runoff or it is the written opinion of the Town Engineer that all stormwater runoff should be discharged off site.
(g) 
A structure with a height exceeding two stories or 35 feet. In order to grant this Special Permit, the Commission must receive a written opinion from the Fire Marshal as to the fire safety aspects the increased height would involve.
(h) 
Outside displays by retail sales establishments when said displays occupy an area greater than 10% of the gross floor area of the individual business utilizing the display.
(14) 
Redemption center for used beverage containers.
(15) 
Drive-up service window by approval of both a Site Plan and a Special Permit.
(16) 
Motor vehicle washing facility by Site Plan and Special Permit provided:
(a) 
The facility shall service only automobiles, pick-up trucks, and small vans.
(b) 
The entrance to the facility shall not exceed 12 feet in height.
(c) 
The car wash shall be fully automated enabling the driver to remain in the vehicle as it is washed.
(d) 
The car wash shall be in a completely enclosed building.
(e) 
Automotive repairs are not conducted on the site.
(17) 
Any establishment, which sells gasoline or diesel fuel.
(18) 
Electronic or mechanical games. In any commercial establishment in which the principal use or activity is not the playing of electronic or mechanical games, no more than three such games or devices shall be placed for public or private use in or on the premises, without a Special Permit from the Planning and Zoning Commission. These games are not classified as a commercial recreational activity.
(19) 
Independent massage therapy practice. In order to grant a Special Permit the PZC must find the following:
(a) 
All massage services must be carried out by licensed massage therapist in clearly marked establishments. Such establishments shall provide rooms with professional lighting which shall remain on at all times that the room is in use and sufficient to light the entire room.
(b) 
For all massage therapists, a valid license from the State of Connecticut and either valid active membership in the AMTA or evidence of Professional Liability insurance equal to that provided by AMTA membership must be presented to the PZC.
(c) 
The valid Connecticut Massage Therapy License must be displayed in plain view in the place of business.
D. 
Permitted uses: Industrial (I).
(1) 
Manufacturing, storing, processing, fabricating, packaging or assembling activities wholly within a building or unified complex of buildings.
(2) 
Printing or publishing establishment.
(3) 
Wholesale showroom with or without storage and repair facilities.
(4) 
Wholesale distribution or warehouse facility.
(5) 
Bulk petroleum storage.
(6) 
Open storage facility for contractors and building suppliers.
(7) 
Salesroom or display areas for wholesale and retail sales and rental of vehicles including vehicle sales lots.
(8) 
Temporary storage of new motorized vehicles.
(9) 
Dry clean or laundering plant.
(10) 
Research and experimental laboratories.
(11) 
Wholesale or retail sale of products fabricated, assembled or packaged in a building on the premises.
(12) 
Motor vehicle washing facilities.
(13) 
Signs subject to § 30-10.4.
(14) 
Accessory uses customarily incidental to the listed uses.
(15) 
Commercial education facility.
(16) 
Any uses permitted in §§ 30-4.1A, B, and C; 30-4.2A; 30-4.5A; and 30-9.2D, E, and I.
E. 
Special exceptions: Industrial (I). The following use may be permitted when granted a Special Exception by the Zoning Board of Appeals.
(1) 
Heliport.
F. 
Special permits: Industrial (I). The following may be permitted when granted a Special Permit by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
(1) 
Commercial recreational facility.
(2) 
Freight or trucking terminal with warehouse storage facilities.
(3) 
Auto body, soldering or welding shop.
(4) 
Automotive repair shop.
(5) 
Radio or television towers and facilities and commercial telecommunication towers.
(6) 
Governmental buildings and public utilities structures.
(7) 
Small engine and lawn mower repair shop.
(8) 
Redemption center for used beverage containers.
(9) 
In addition to any other required permits or approvals, a Special Permit shall be required for any use or development in this zone when any of the following thresholds are met for any parcel or development.
(a) 
More than 40 off-street parking spaces are required or;
(b) 
The proposed structure is within 200 feet of a residential structure or;
(c) 
The proposed development has any off-street parking or loading spaces within 100 feet of a residential structure or;
(d) 
The aggregate square footage for all structures on any parcel exceeds 25,000;
(e) 
This section shall not apply to developments or subsequent modifications to projects approved by the Commission when said original approvals were obtained prior to March 1, 1992.
(f) 
Lot coverage of 40% or more. In order to grant this Special Permit, the Commission must find that this additional coverage will not increase the off site stormwater runoff or it is the written opinion of the Town Engineer that all stormwater runoff should be discharged off site.
(g) 
A structure with a height exceeding three stories or 40 feet. In order to grant this Special Permit, the Commission must receive a written opinion from the Fire Marshal as to the fire safety aspects the increased height would involve.
(h) 
Outside displays when said displays occupy an area greater than 10% of the gross floor area of the individual business utilizing the display.
(10) 
Electronic or mechanical games: In any commercial establishment in which the principal use or activity is not the playing of electronic or mechanical games, no more than three such games or devices shall be placed for public or private use in or on the premises, without a Special Permit from the Planning Commission.
(11) 
Adaptive Re-use per §§ 30-2.1 and 30-9.2A.
(12) 
Drive-up service window by approval of both a Site Plan and a Special Permit.
(13) 
Commercial kennel, as defined in Article 2, provided that such a facility is located no closer than 300 feet from a residence or residential district. The 300 feet separation requirement shall not apply to veterinary facilities housed inside a building.
(14) 
Message board sign by approval of both a Site Plan and Special Permit.
G. 
Permitted uses: Special Development Zone — Economic Development. There are no permitted uses in this zone.
H. 
Special exceptions: Special Development Zone — Economic Development. There are no Special Exceptions in the Special Economic Development Zone.
I. 
Special permits: Special Development Zone — Economic Development. The following may be permitted when granted a Special Permit by the Planning and Zoning Commission:
(1) 
Manufacturing, storing, processing, fabricating, packaging or assembling activities wholly within a building or unified complex of buildings.
(2) 
Printing or publishing.
(3) 
Wholesale distribution or warehouse facility.
(4) 
Wholesale showroom with or without storage and repair facilities.
(5) 
Research and experimental laboratories.
(6) 
Auditorium, coliseum, or indoor movie theatre(s).
(7) 
Professional office building, general office buildings, office parks.
(8) 
Signs subject to § 30-10.4.
(9) 
Accessory uses customarily incidental to the listed uses.
(10) 
Retail sale of products assembled or packaged in a building on the premises provided said fabrication, assembling, or packing operations occupy a minimum of 75% of the floor area of said building.
(11) 
Plumbing, heating, electrical, industrial and general contracting establishments, which may include showrooms.
(12) 
Commercial recreational facility.
(a) 
Commercial recreational facilities are exempt from the minimum floor area requirement of 5% if the proposed use is primarily for outdoor activities.
(13) 
In addition to any other required permits or approvals, a Special Permit shall be required for any use or development in this zone when any of the following thresholds are met for any parcel or development.
(a) 
More than 40 off-street parking spaces are required or;
(b) 
The proposed development has any off-street parking or loading spaces within 100 feet of a residential structure or;
(c) 
The proposed development has any off-street parking or loading spaces within 100 feet of a residential structure or
(d) 
The aggregate square footage for all structures on any parcel exceeds 25,000;
(e) 
This section shall not apply to developments or subsequent modifications to projects approved by the Commission when said original approvals were obtained prior to March 1, 1992.
(f) 
Lot coverage of 65% or more. In order to grant this Special Permit, the Commission must find that this additional coverage will not increase the off-site stormwater runoff or it is the written opinion of the Town Engineer that all stormwater runoff should be discharged off-site.
(g) 
A structure with a height exceeding three stories or 40 feet. In order to grant this Special Permit, the Commission must receive a written opinion from the Fire Marshal as to the fire safety aspects the increased height would involve.
(h) 
Outside displays when said displays occupy an area greater than 10% of the gross floor area of the individual business utilizing the display.
(14) 
Bank or other financial institution.
(15) 
Hotel, motel, convention and resort centers.
(16) 
Drive-up service window by approval of both a Site Plan and a Special Permit.
(17) 
Restaurant, located within, and serving food for consumption inside an office, hotel, convention oriented or industrial type building or complex of buildings.
(18) 
Governmental buildings and facilities including recycling facilities for organic materials.
(19) 
Telecommunication towers.
(20) 
Redemption center for used beverage containers.
(21) 
Commercial kennel, as defined in Article 2, provided that such a facility is located no closer than 300 feet from a residence or residential district. The 300 feet separation requirement shall not apply to veterinary facilities housed inside a building.
(22) 
Message board sign by approval of both a Site Plan and Special Permit.
J. 
Area and yard requirements: Planned Commercial Zone.
(1) 
Minimum lot area: three acres.
(2) 
Minimum front yard: 50 feet.
(3) 
Minimum rear yard: 50 feet.
(4) 
Minimum side yard: 50 feet.
(5) 
Minimum floor area: 7% of land area per POD
(6) 
Minimum lot width: 180 feet.
K. 
Permitted uses: Planned Commercial Zone.
(1) 
Professional office buildings, general office buildings, office parks.
L. 
Special exceptions: Planned Commercial Zone. None.
M. 
Special permits: Planned Commercial Zone. The following may be permitted when granted a Special Permit by the Planning and Zoning Commission:
(1) 
Full service restaurants.
(2) 
Research and experimental laboratories.
(3) 
Banks or other financial institutions without drive-up windows.
(4) 
Governmental facility.
(5) 
Retail sale of food, non-alcoholic beverages, drugs, clothing, jewelry, hardware and building materials, stationery, household appliances or furnishings, specialty items, and general merchandise.
(6) 
Recreational and educational facilities.
(7) 
Personal convenience services excluding weight studios, counseling and therapy services, and encounter groups, other than those performed in a professional office.
(8) 
Nursing or convalescent homes and assisted living facilities.
(9) 
Hotels or motels.
(10) 
Accessory uses customarily incidental to the above uses.
(11) 
In addition to any other required permits or approvals, a Special Permit shall be required for any use or development in this zone when any of the following thresholds are met for any parcel or development.
(a) 
More than 40 off-street parking spaces are required or;
(b) 
The proposed structure is within 200 feet of a residential structure or;
(c) 
The proposed development has any off-street parking or loading spaces within 100 feet of a residential structure or;
(d) 
The aggregate square footage for all structures on any parcel exceeds 25,000;
(e) 
This section shall not apply to developments or subsequent modifications to projects approved by the Commission when said original approvals were obtained prior to March 1, 1992.
(f) 
Lot coverage of 55% or more. In order to grant this Special Permit, the Commission must find that this additional coverage will not increase the off-site stormwater runoff or it is the written opinion of the Town Engineer that all stormwater runoff should be discharged off-site.
(g) 
A structure with a height exceeding three stories or 40 feet. In order to grant this Special Permit, the Commission must receive a written opinion from the Fire Marshal as to the fire safety aspects the increased height would involve.
(h) 
Outside displays when said displays occupy an area greater than 10% of the gross floor area of the individual business utilizing the display.
(12) 
Retail sale of food with alcoholic beverages permit.
(13) 
Day care centers.
(14) 
Drive-up service window by approval of both a Site Plan and a Special Permit.
(15) 
Message board sign by approval of both a Site Plan and Special Permit.
(16) 
One sign, per business, not larger than 14 square feet, provided this sign meets all the other requirements of § 30-10.4. Additional signage and/or signs in excess of 14 square feet and otherwise in compliance with § 30-10.4 may be permitted when granted a Special Permit by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
(17) 
Indoor movie theaters.
(18) 
Funeral homes.
(19) 
Seller or server of alcoholic beverages subject to § 30-9.5, Alcoholic liquors and cannabis retailers.
(20) 
Hospitals, medical offices, laboratories and similar health care facilities.
(21) 
Cannabis retailer, subject to § 30-9.5.
N. 
Uses. In the RVDOZ the following uses are permitted, notwithstanding the provisions of § 30-6.4, Downtown Business and Residential.
(1) 
Retail sale of food, non-alcoholic beverages, pharmaceuticals, clothing, jewelry, hardware, stationery, specialty items, household appliances, and furnishings;
(2) 
Restaurants, non-full service and full service; the service of alcohol shall be limited to full service restaurants but shall not be subject to the provisions of § 30-9.5; drive-up service windows shall not be permitted;
(3) 
Taverns, pubs, and private clubs with a Club or Cafe liquor permit; these uses shall not be subject to the provisions of § 30-9.5;
(4) 
Professional or business offices; governmental offices and facilities; clinics; dental, medical and health offices, provided none of the aforementioned uses is to be located on the ground floor of a building, unless a special permit is granted; for purposes of these regulations, "ground floor" shall be defined as the floor of the building that is entered from street level;
(5) 
Places of worship or religious facilities, provided the same are not to be located on the ground floor of a building, unless the building was originally constructed for such purpose;
(6) 
Banks or other financial institutions;
(7) 
Hospitals;
(8) 
Commercial recreational facilities;
(9) 
Cultural, arts, crafts and education facilities; libraries; galleries; studios; and workshops;
(10) 
Personal convenience services limited to barbershops, beauty shops, nail salons, and similar services;
(11) 
Printing and graphic services;
(12) 
Indoor movie theatres; performing arts theatres, auditoriums;
(13) 
Existing single family dwellings; and the rebuilding of these structures (as originally constructed) if destroyed by natural disaster or fire;
(14) 
Multi-family dwellings; these uses shall be subject to the provisions of § 30-8.7G and for one bedroom and studio units, § 30-9.1C;
(15) 
Mixed non-residential uses (that are allowed in this section) and residential uses upon a single parcel or within a single building shall be allowed. The non-residential uses can be on any floor for the structure while the residential use will be allowed on any floor except the ground floor. Residential use on the ground floor is only allowed by granting of a special permit;
(16) 
Conversion of residential to non-residential use and conversion of non-residential to residential use; either conversion shall require the granting of a special permit; If granted a special permit Buildings originally constructed as single family or multifamily residences may be occupied by professional offices on all floors including the ground floor;
(17) 
Bed and Breakfast (B&B); hotels, motels;
(18) 
Day care establishments when accessory to a permitted non-residential use; by special permit when it is the principal use;
(19) 
Home based businesses of Minor Type;
(20) 
Adaptive Re-use per § 30-9.2A;
(21) 
Any uses not listed above but authorized in the underlying zone by special permit shall also be allowed in the RVDOZ by special permit.
A. 
Area and yard requirements: Commercial.
(1) 
Minimum lot area: 22,000 square feet.
(2) 
Minimum lot width: 100 feet.
(3) 
Minimum front yard: 50 feet.
(4) 
Minimum rear yard: 50 feet.
(5) 
Minimum side yard: 20 feet.
(6) 
Minimum floor area 1,000 square feet.
B. 
Area and yard requirements: Industrial (I).
(1) 
Minimum lot area: 40,000 square feet.
(2) 
Minimum lot width: 150 feet.
(3) 
Minimum front yard: 50 feet.
(4) 
Minimum side yard: 30 feet.
(5) 
Minimum rear yard: 40 feet.
(6) 
Minimum floor area: 5% of land area.
C. 
Area and yard requirements: Special Development Zone — Economic Development.
(1) 
Minimum lot area: one acre.
(2) 
Minimum lot width: 150 feet.
(3) 
Minimum front yard: 50 feet.
(4) 
Minimum rear yard: 30 feet.
(5) 
Minimum side yard: 30 feet.
(6) 
Minimum floor area: 5% of land area.
D. 
The Planned Commercial Zone (PCZ) has been designed in accordance with Town Master Plan, to regulate commercial and office space development along Route 83 (Talcottville Road) from its intersection with Wilshire Road to the area adjacent to Dart Hill Road. The intent of the regulations is to:
(1) 
Encourage the development of commercial/office space uses, which have the least potential for generating additional traffic to the Route 83 daily and peak hour volumes existing as of March 1, 1983.
(2) 
Insure that the traffic ingress and egress patterns for new developments under these regulations takes place in a manner which is safe and which minimize traffic conflicts resulting from turning movements of vehicles entering or leaving the property being developed.
(3) 
Encourage development of medium or large-scale commercial buildings rather than small structures on individual parcels.
(4) 
Encourage development, which provides adequate buffering between residential areas, and encourage site layout, parking areas, landscaping and signage, which will serve to enhance area property values.
A. 
Protective provisions: Industrial (I). All industrial uses must be connected to sanitary sewers unless the Health Department approves the use of a septic system in writing prior to PZC action.
B. 
Protective provisions: Special Development Zone — Economic Development.
(1) 
To protect the traffic flow and improve the aesthetic character of Route 83, lots which abut Route 83 must meet the following area and yard requirements:
(a) 
Minimum lot area: one acre.
(b) 
Minimum lot width: 150 feet.
(c) 
Minimum front yard: 60 feet.
(d) 
Additionally no parking area shall be allowed within the required front yard of properties on Route 83.
(2) 
A complete Site Plan as required in § 30-13.2 shall be submitted to the Commission as part of the Special Permit requirement.
(3) 
Parcels abutting the I-84 right-of-way and within the I-84 Corridor as defined in the Master Plan of Development shall have minimum lot sizes of one acre, minimum lot widths of 150 feet, and no parking or loading zones between the building and I-84 unless said parking areas and loading zones can be screened in such a manner as to preserve the overall aesthetic character of the area.
C. 
Protective provisions: Planned Commercial Zone.
(1) 
To protect the traffic flow and improve the aesthetic character of the area, the parking of vehicles shall not be allowed within the first 30 feet of the front yard.
(2) 
For each existing subdivided lot of record as of March 1, 1983, subject to PC zoning only, one curb cut for access and egress onto Route 83 shall be permitted for all future development of the parcel. The width, turning radii, and location of this curb cut with respect to each individual lot shall be established at the time of initial Plan of Development application so as to accommodate future planned development of each parcel. The Planning and Zoning Commission may require the submission of a schematic development plan for undeveloped portions of the property to assist in determining the best location of the curb cut. If warranted by traffic flow and/or safety consideration, this requirement may be waived at the sole discretion of the Planning and Zoning Commission.
(3) 
The complete Site Plan as required in § 30-13.2 shall be submitted to the Planning and Zoning Commission as part of the submission of the application for development.
(4) 
To provide landscaped outdoor spaces and attractive buffers between adjacent uses in the zone and between the rear parcel boundaries and adjacent zones, the following general landscaping criteria are required:
(a) 
All setback areas shall be landscaped at a minimum with sod, ground cover and/or low-level shrubbery, or natural buffering shall be preserved.
(b) 
Where a parcel in the PC zone abuts a residential zone and in the setback area between parcels, the Planning and Zoning Commission may at its discretion, and where topographical conditions permit, require the construction of an earth berm within the side or rear yard setback whose minimum dimensions with be three feet in height and 10 feet wide with a 2:1 slope and require that such berm be landscaped with an impervious coniferous hedge and/or comparable planting of deciduous trees and low-level shrubbery. Where such buffering is required, the minimum requirements are:
(c) 
Trees (deciduous or coniferous) must be three inches in caliper — planted within four feet of each other.
(d) 
In the front yard setback area, the Planning and Zoning Commission may require the construction of a berm to shield large expanses of parking located in the area between the building and the street line. If a berm is required, the Commission will first take into consideration the visibility of the building from the street line and the effect of the berm on sight distances from the parcel's curb cut. At a minimum the front yard setback area must be landscaped with low-level shrubbery, ground cover and/or sod.
(5) 
Signage of the commercial and office uses permitted in the zone shall conform to the following criteria:
(a) 
One all-purpose sign per parcel to be located at the ingress/egress point shall be permitted per lot of record. The sign shall not exceed 100 square feet in area and shall not exceed 10 feet in height, nor be located less than 15 feet from the edge of pavement. The sign may be illuminated either internally or by spotlights. Each individual business located upon a lot of record may have one parallel sign affixed to the building/store facade. The maximum area of the sign shall be determined by multiplying the length of the building/store facade times 1 (e.g., 30-foot facade results in 30 square foot sign area).
(b) 
No neon, movable, temporary or banner type signs are permitted.
A. 
Purpose. It is the purpose of the Rockville Village District Overlay Zone (RVDOZ) to ensure that the unique character of Rockville is maintained and enhanced for present and future generations in accordance with Connecticut General Statutes § 8-2j, Village Districts. The provisions of this zone are intended to preserve and enhance the character of Rockville by encouraging the preservation and, when possible, the restoration of sites and buildings of unique historical and architectural value and by assuring that new structures and uses, in their design and layout, will be in keeping with the historical development pattern and character of Rockville.
B. 
District boundary. The RVDOZ is that area depicted on the map entitled, "Rockville Village District, Adopted February 6, 2014," and as depicted on the Vernon Zoning Map.
C. 
Consistency with the plan of conservation and development. In administering the provisions of this section the Planning and Zoning Commission (PZC), and the Local Historic Properties Commission (LHPC) shall give due consideration to the Rockville section in the Plan of Conservation and Development (POCD).
D. 
Other design guidelines and resources. In administering the provisions of this section the PZC shall give due consideration to the following design guidelines and resources:
(1) 
The Secretary of the Interior's Standards for Rehabilitation and Guidelines for Rehabilitating Historic Buildings;
(2) 
Design Guidelines — A Plan of Appropriateness and Protection, by the Vernon Local Historic Properties Commission, October 2010;
(3) 
The Rockville Charette Report prepared by the Yale Urban Design Workshop sponsored by the Connecticut Main Street Center, May 14 — May 16, 2004.
E. 
Applicability. Any exterior building construction or modification associated with a proposed development or use in the RVDOZ shall be reviewed in relation to the design guidelines in Subsection G and the additional design considerations specified in Subsection H.
F. 
Procedure.
(1) 
Applications subject to the provisions of this section shall be referred to the PZC. The PZC may refer applications to the LHPC for comment.
(2) 
The application shall be reviewed by the PZC in relation to the design guidelines of this section.
G. 
Design guidelines.
(1) 
Lot size and lot coverage.
(a) 
There is no minimum lot size or lot width, provided the proposed lot configuration presents no conflicts with the Building Code and/or Fire Code.
(b) 
Lot coverage by all impervious surfaces including buildings, structures, parking areas, and access roads shall not exceed 85% of the total lot area. Low Impact Development (LID) practices shall be employed consistent with the Town LID Manual.
(2) 
Building setback requirements and building height.
(a) 
Non-residential structures and mixed use structures should be built to the sidewalk (front property) line. Appropriate exceptions could include relief for commercial hardscapes and commercial or public green spaces.
(b) 
Residential structures may have a greater front setback to allow for landscape treatments, porches, bay windows and other architectural embellishments but shall not exceed eight feet from the sidewalk line.
(c) 
Garages, car ports, and other accessory structures shall be located behind the principal building.
(d) 
There are no side or rear setback requirements, subject to building and fire code regulations.
(e) 
Building height shall be a minimum of two stories or 24 feet and may not exceed 48 feet without the granting of a special permit by the PZC. The minimum height requirement shall not apply to accessory structures, such as gazebos and bus shelters.
(3) 
Property layout. Layouts of primary structures, parking structures, and parking lots should be designed with the purpose of deemphasizing the dominance of the automobile and emphasizing the relationship of the primary structure and pedestrian access to the public domain.
(4) 
Building fronts and sides. The front or side of every building shall face the street. Loading docks, overhead doors, and service entries are prohibited from facing the street.
(5) 
Placement of utilities. All new utilities shall be placed underground in all public streets and in rear service alleys.
(6) 
Parking.
(a) 
General.
[1] 
The intent of these parking regulations is to encourage a balance between compact pedestrian oriented development and necessary car storage. The goal is to construct neither more nor less parking than is needed.
[2] 
On-street parking is permitted throughout the district except where posted otherwise. Parking need not be contiguous with the building or the use it serves.
[3] 
Minimum parking requirements in the RVDOZ are as follows:
[a] 
One space/dwelling unit.
[b] 
One space/300 sf of retail.
[c] 
One space/300 sf of office.
[4] 
Shared parking solutions are encouraged. Required parking minimums can be reduced by up to 50% with a shared parking solution approved by the PZC. The applicant shall provide a parking analysis justifying the proposed shared parking solution.
[5] 
Minimum parking space dimensions for head-in or diagonal parking shall be 9' x 17' with 10-foot drive lanes (20 feet for two way traffic) and parallel parking spaces shall be 8' x 20' minimum with 10-foot drive lanes (20 feet for two way traffic).
[6] 
Parking shall be provided as necessary to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act.
(b) 
On-street parking. The selection of diagonal, head-in, or parallel parking along any section of road shall be determined in consultation with the Town Engineer and Town Planner.
(c) 
Off-street surface parking lot placement. Off-street surface parking lots shall be setback a minimum of 10 feet from the sidewalk line.
(d) 
Access to off-street parking.
[1] 
Alleys may be incorporated into lots as standard drive aisles. Access to all properties adjacent to the alley shall be maintained. Access between parking lots across property lines is also encouraged.
[2] 
Circular drives are prohibited except for civic buildings. Where space permits, garage doors shall face the side or the rear property lines, not the front.
[3] 
Off-street parking areas in front of new buildings are not permitted. Off-street parking areas in front of existing buildings shall be discouraged wherever alternative parking solutions exist.
(7) 
Street trees. Streets bordering new development or substantial rehabilitation shall be planted with street trees. Trees shall be selected and arranged in consultation with the Planning and Zoning Commission. Street trees should be at least three inches in caliper at chest height.
(8) 
Street lighting. Street lighting shall be provided on all streets bordering new development or substantial rehabilitation. Street light fixtures should be located within three feet of the curb and should be provided at consistent regular intervals. Street light fixtures shall be chosen in consultation with the Planning and Zoning Commission.
(9) 
Street furniture. Street furniture includes benches, trash receptacles, street signs and traffic lights. Street furniture shall be chosen in consultation with the Planning and Zoning Commission. Benches and trash receptacles shall be provided on all streets at consistent regular intervals. Street furniture shall be located so as to maintain a clear pedestrian path. Street furniture should be consistent in color and style along both sides of any street. A five-foot wide street furniture strip should be set aside and maintained.
(10) 
Drainage.
(a) 
Stormwater control measures shall be provided for impervious surfaces within the site, either as stipulated below or in other situations as deemed appropriate by the PZC. All stormwater control structures shall be reviewed, approved, and inspected by the Town Engineer.
(b) 
All storm drainage for proposed development in which the combined square footage of roofs, paved parking areas and other impervious surfaces exceeds 10,000 square feet shall be designed in accordance with and subject to the provisions of the Town LID Manual.
(11) 
Access and traffic.
(a) 
The PZC may require the applicant to present a traffic survey conducted by a qualified traffic engineer evaluating the impact of the anticipated traffic on fire safety and congestion of traffic flow on the public roadway, and on pedestrian use in front of the property. The PZC may require such measures as are necessary to ensure pedestrian and vehicular safety and ease of travel, including limiting access to and from the parking area to right turns only, and requiring other measures to enhance visibility for persons exiting from the parking area and for drivers and pedestrians on the public roadways.
(b) 
The PZC may require minimum sight line distances depending on present or anticipated traffic conditions and upon posted speed limits and surveyed average vehicular speeds.
(c) 
Vehicular entrances shall be a maximum of 25 feet wide and shall be clearly defined. Vehicular entrances shall not exceed 30% of the lot frontage. The total number of entrances which can safely be accommodated along the same road will be a consideration for approval or disapproval of a special permit and/or site plan application. Wherever possible, each development shall be limited to one access point per property on the same road. Shared entrances are encouraged.
(d) 
The applicant must demonstrate that the site design makes proper provision for pedestrian access and safety. All site plans shall provide for pedestrian walkways and circulation in and around buildings. Pedestrian pathways allowing access from the sidewalk to the primary building entrances are required.
(12) 
Civic sites. Civic buildings include, but are not limited to, municipal buildings, churches, libraries, schools, recreation facilities, and places of assembly. Civic buildings do not include retail buildings, residential buildings, or privately owned office buildings. Traditionally, civic buildings have greater front yard setbacks and building frontage requirements; therefore civic buildings are not subject to set back requirements or building frontage requirements. Civic buildings should be set farther back from the street than non-civic buildings in the district.
H. 
Architectural syntax. The requirements and materials described in this section are intended to provide direction to applicants on the types of syntax the PZC expects to find on new or improved structures. Alternative materials may be proposed by the applicant and may be approved by the PZC if they meet the purpose and intent of the district.
(1) 
Details and acceptable building materials.
(a) 
Columns, arches, piers, railings, and balustrades.
[1] 
General requirements.
[a] 
Columns and piers shall be spaced no farther apart than they are tall.
[2] 
Permitted finish materials.
[a] 
Columns.
[i] 
Wood, painted or natural.
[ii] 
Cast iron.
[iii] 
Concrete with smooth finish.
[iv] 
Stone.
[b] 
Arches.
[i] 
Concrete Masonry Units with Stucco (CBS).
[ii] 
Reinforced concrete with stucco.
[iii] 
Brick.
[iv] 
Wood.
[v] 
Stone.
[c] 
Piers.
[i] 
Concrete Masonry Units with Stucco (CBS).
[ii] 
Reinforced Concrete with Stucco.
[iii] 
Brick.
[iv] 
Stone.
[d] 
Railings and balustrades.
[i] 
Wood (termite resistant), painted or natural.
[ii] 
Wrought iron.
[iii] 
Balustrades shall not be farther apart than three inches minimum or four inches maximum.
[3] 
Permitted configurations.
[a] 
Columns.
[i] 
Square, six inches minimum, with or without capitals and bases.
[ii] 
Round, six inches minimum outer diameter, with or without capitals and bases.
[iii] 
Classical orders.
[b] 
Arches.
[i] 
Semi-circular and segmental.
[c] 
Piers.
[i] 
Eight inches minimum dimension.
[d] 
Porches.
[i] 
Railings 2 3/4 inches minimum diameter.
[ii] 
Balustrades three inches minimum spacing, four inches maximum spacing.
(b) 
Windows and doors.
[1] 
General requirements.
[a] 
Window openings facing streets should be oriented vertically.
[b] 
Storefront windows should replicate single panes of glass not larger than 8' in height x 6' in width.
[c] 
For retail uses, windows should cover 75% of the street frontage on the ground floor facing the street.
[d] 
Storefront windows should begin a maximum of three feet height above the sidewalk.
[e] 
The following accessories are permitted:
[i] 
Shutters (standard).
[ii] 
Wooden window boxes.
[iii] 
Muntins and mullions.
[iv] 
Awnings.
[2] 
Finish materials.
[a] 
Windows and storefronts.
[i] 
Wood.
[ii] 
Aluminum.
[iii] 
Copper.
[iv] 
Steel.
[v] 
Vinyl clad wood.
[b] 
Doors.
[i] 
Wood or metal.
[ii] 
Fiberglass.
[3] 
Permitted configurations.
[a] 
Windows.
[i] 
Rectangular.
[ii] 
Square.
[iii] 
Round (18 inches maximum outer diameter).
[iv] 
Semi-circular.
[b] 
Window operations.
[i] 
Casement.
[ii] 
Single and double-hung.
[iii] 
Industrial.
[iv] 
Fixed frame.
[c] 
Door operations.
[i] 
Casement.
[ii] 
French.
[iii] 
Sliding.
(c) 
Roofs and gutters.
[1] 
General requirements.
[a] 
Permitted roof types.
[i] 
Gabled, hipped, flat, and domed.
[ii] 
Down spouts are to match gutters in material and finish.
[2] 
Permitted finish materials.
[a] 
Metals.
[i] 
Painted galvanized steel.
[ii] 
Copper.
[iii] 
Aluminum.
[iv] 
Zinc-Aluminum.
[b] 
Shingles.
[i] 
Asphalt or metal, "dimensional" type.
[ii] 
Slate.
[iii] 
Cedar Shake.
[c] 
Tile.
[i] 
Clay, Terra-cotta, Concrete.
[d] 
Gutters.
[i] 
Copper.
[ii] 
Aluminum.
[iii] 
Painted galvanized steel.
[e] 
Rubber panels and sealed membrane roofs are allowed on flat roofs or low pitched roofs:
[3] 
Permitted configurations.
[a] 
Metals.
[i] 
Standing Seam spacing, panel ends exposed at overhang, 24 inches maximum.
[b] 
Shingles.
[i] 
Square, Rectangular, Fish scale, Shield.
[c] 
Tile.
[i] 
Barrel, Flat, French.
[d] 
Gutters.
[i] 
Rectangular section.
[ii] 
Square section.
[iii] 
Half-round section.
(d) 
Garden walls and fences.
[1] 
Permitted materials.
[a] 
Wood (termite resistant), painted white, left natural, or painted/stained with colors approved by the PZC.
[b] 
Concrete Masonry Units with Stucco (CBS).
[c] 
Reinforced Concrete with stucco.
[d] 
Wrought Iron.
[e] 
Brick.
[f] 
Vinyl.
[g] 
Stone.
[2] 
Permitted finish.
[a] 
Wood.
[i] 
Picket Fences. Minimum 30% opaque with corner posts.
[ii] 
Other. To match building walls.
[b] 
Stucco.
[i] 
With texture and color to match building walls.
[c] 
Wrought iron.
[i] 
Vertical, 5/8 inches minimum dimension, three inches to four inches spacing.
[3] 
Chain link fencing is not permitted.
(e) 
Street walls.
[1] 
Street walls along any unimproved street frontage shall be between 4'-6' above the adjacent ground. The better side of a street wall shall face the street.
[2] 
Building, Facade, Site Design Requirements.
[a] 
All spaces and structures and related site improvements visible to the public from public roadways shall be designed to add to the visual amenities of the area in relationship to the proposed development.
[b] 
The color, size, height, location, roof treatments, building materials, landscaping and proportion of openings of any proposed new construction, substantial reconstruction or rehabilitation, and whatever signs and lighting that may be proposed for such uses, shall be evaluated for compatibility with the architecture of existing buildings in the vicinity. The color, size, height, and architectural style of the building shall complement and not compete with other architecturally distinguished buildings in the district. These details shall be reviewed by the Planning and Zoning Commission.
[c] 
Primary colors shall not be used for building walls unless they are muted in tone. Neon colors are not allowed.
[d] 
Trim colors for windows, soffits, cornices, moldings, etc. should be whites or dark saturated cool colors (for example, greens, blues, bronze). Brick and stone may be left their natural color.
[e] 
Roof colors must be natural colors.
[f] 
Entry doors may have greater color latitude.
[g] 
Wherever possible and where site conditions allow the front building plane should be oriented towards the street. Accessory buildings may be exempt.
[h] 
The street elevation of buildings shall have at least one entrance oriented towards the street.
[i] 
Facade materials should be finished with brick, stucco, wood, stone, or appropriate concrete masonry units.
(f) 
Where clearly visible from streets or public areas.
[1] 
Design standards generally apply only in conditions WHERE CLEARLY VISIBLE FROM THE STREET OR PUBLIC AREAS. The architectural and facade controls concentrate on the public realm and minimize requirements of private views. For example, an architectural element that is visible only through an opening in a street wall is not clearly visible from the street.
[2] 
The following are prohibited where visible from parks, squares and public streets: Utility boxes and machinery including; but not limited to: backflow devices, electric meters and air conditioning units. Blank walls must not be visible from a public street. The applicant shall propose a site plan that minimizes the view of parking lots, driveways, or garage doors from public view.
(g) 
Building numbering. Building numbers shall be located over the primary entrance to the building and shall be visible from the street.
(h) 
Signage. Signage shall be permitted in accordance with § 30-10.4 of these regulations.
A. 
Use variances: Commercial. Under no circumstances shall the Zoning Board of Appeals grant a variance to allow a use in this zoning district that is specifically allowed by the Planning and Zoning Commission under §§ 30-4.1C and 30-9.2D and E.
B. 
Use variances: Industrial (I). Under no circumstances shall the Zoning Board of Appeals grant a variance to allow a use in this zoning district that is specifically allowed by the Planning and Zoning Commission under § 30-4.1F.
C. 
Use variances: Special Development Zone — Economic Development. Under no circumstances shall the Zoning Board of Appeals grant a variance to allow a use in this zoning district specifically allowed by the Planning and Zoning Commission under § 30-4.1I.
D. 
Use variances: Planned Commercial Zone. Under no circumstances shall the Zoning Board of Appeals grant a variance to allow a use in this zoning district specifically allowed by the Planning and Zoning Commission under § 30-4.1M.