Township of Putnam, MI Article XV Development Regulations

§ 340-159 Signs.

[Amended 12-16-2009; 4-16-2014 by Ord. No. Z-72; 11-20-2024 by Ord. No. Z-127]

A. Signs not specifically permitted in this chapter are prohibited.

B. Specific definitions. As used in this section, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:

AREA

The total square footage of a sign face exposed to public view.

BANNER SIGN

A temporary unsecured sign made of natural, flexible, synthetic or plastic material.

BILLBOARD

Any freestanding sign on a parcel of land which does not include another principal structure.

CANOPY, AWNING, or MARQUEE SIGN

A sign which is part of, hung from the underside of, or attached to, a canopy, awning, marquee or other covered structure projecting from and supported by a building and does not project horizontally beyond or vertically above the canopy, marquee, awning, or covered structure.

DIRECTIONAL SIGN

Signs limited to directional messages, principally for pedestrian or vehicular traffic, such as "one way," "entrance," "exit," and "drive-through."

ELECTRONIC MESSAGE CENTER (EMC)

A sign that utilizes computer-generated messages or some other electronic means of changing copy. These signs include displays using incandescent lamps, LEDs, LCDs, or a flipper matrix (mechanical means).

ENTRANCE DRIVE ARCH SIGN

A sign designed to span over and above an entrance drive, but not limited to a curved shape.

FLAG

A sign on paper, cloth, fabric, or other flexible or combustible material of any kind that is attached to a permanent conforming pole in accordance with the zoning ordinance and the building code. Flags are typically supported on one side of the sign.

FOOTCANDLE

A unit of measure of the intensity of light falling on a surface equal to one foot from a given surface.

FREESTANDING SIGN

A sign supported by one or more uprights, poles, pylons, monuments, or braces placed in the ground and not attached to any building or other structure. Freestanding signs include monument signs, but do not include billboards.

GROUND SIGN

A freestanding sign affixed to the ground with a full footing where the display surface is less than four feet above the grade to the bottom of the display area. Ground signs can include EMC, reader board, and illuminated signs.

ILLUMINATED SIGN

Any sign designed to give forth artificial light or designed to reflect any light given from any source which is intended to cause light or reflection.

MONUMENT SIGN

A base-mounted, freestanding sign placed on the ground and not attached to any building or other structure. A monument sign includes a solid supporting base of at least 24 inches in height and a width equal to or greater than the width of the sign face. Monument signs are constructed of a decorative and durable material (e.g., masonry), and shall have no separations between the sign face and the base.

NONCONFORMING SIGN

A sign that was lawfully permitted at the time it was erected but is not permitted under current law.

PERMANENT SIGN

A sign constructed of durable materials intended to withstand prolonged exposure to exterior elements. Permanent signs are affixed to the ground or a structure by means of footings beneath the ground surface, bolts or screws into a structure, or other method intended to ensure the sign is displayed for an extended period of time with minimal maintenance or replacement of parts.

POLE SIGN

A freestanding sign which is supported by one or more uprights in permanent footings with all parts of the display surface of the sign eight feet or more above the grade at the base of the sign.

PORTABLE SIGN

A sign designed to be moved easily and not permanently attached to the ground, a structure, or a building.

READER BOARD

A secondary portion of a sign, designed to allow for messages that are manually or electronically changeable.

RESIDENTIAL ENTRANCEWAY SIGN

A permanent structure, including, but not limited to, walls, columns, and gates, marking entrances to single-family subdivisions or multiple housing projects.

ROOF SIGN

A sign which is erected, constructed, and maintained upon or above the roof, or parapet wall of a building, which is wholly or partially supported by said building.

TEMPORARY SIGN

A sign that is intended to be displayed for a limited period of time.

WALL SIGN

A sign fastened to or painted on the wall of a building or structure in such a manner that the wall becomes the supporting structure for, or forms the background surface of, the sign and which does not project more than 12 inches from the building or structure.

WINDOW SIGN

A sign that is applied or attached to the exterior or interior of a window or located in such a manner within a building that it can be seen from the exterior of the structure through a window.

C. Sign design standards in all zoning districts. All signs in all zoning districts are subject to the following standards:

(1) General requirements. All signs shall be designed and constructed in a safe and stable manner in accordance with the Township's adopted building code and electrical code. All electrical wiring associated with a freestanding sign shall be installed underground.

(2) Building code compliance. All permanent signs shall be designed to comply with all requirements contained in the adopted building code.

D. Zoning compliance permit requirements. A zoning compliance permit shall be obtained for the erection, construction, alteration, and/or replacement of any sign; except as otherwise provided in this chapter. Requests for a zoning compliance permit shall consist of a completed application form, provided by the Township, and a nonrefundable application fee as established by the Township Board. In addition, as part of the zoning compliance permit application, the applicant shall provide the following:

(1) Name, address, and phone number of applicants;

(2) Location of building, structure, or lot on which the sign is to be attached or erected;

(3) Indication of the zoning district in which the sign is to be located;

(4) Total display area of the sign in square feet;

(5) Proposed setback of the sign from the road right-of-way, drives, and adjacent properties;

(6) Elevation drawing of the proposed sign, indicating sign type, height, and ground clearance, if applicable;

(7) Details regarding methods of lighting, if any;

(8) Height and width of building (or height and width of occupant frontage, if applicable) if the sign is a wall sign;

(9) Site area and frontage;

(10) Site plan showing sign location and setback from property lines and other structures;

(11) Written and signed consent from property owner if sign is located on a separate lot.

E. Specific sign requirements by district.

Agriculture/Open Space  — A-O
A-O Ground Sign Requirements
Use		Number			Maximum Height (feet)	Maximum Area (square feet)		Setbacks
All nonagricultural and nonresidential permitted and special land uses except as otherwise provided in this table		1 per lot or 2 per lot if 500 feet or more of frontage (minimum 250 foot separation)			5	25		5 feet from right-of-way lines; 10 feet from side lot lines (nonilluminated); 25 feet from side lot lines (illuminated)
Subdivisions or other residential developments		1 identification sign per entrance			6	32
Agricultural uses except single-family residential		1 identification sign per farm or business			5	25
Places of assembly Parochial and private primary and secondary schools		1 per lot or 2 per lot if 500 feet or more of frontage (minimum 250 foot separation)			8	40

A-O Wall Sign Requirements
Use	Area Formula	Maximum Area (square feet)
All nonagricultural and nonresidential permitted and special land uses	1 square foot for each linear foot of building frontage	20

A-O Entrance Drive Arch Sign Requirements
Use	Number	Dimensions	Maximum Area (square feet)	Setbacks
All permitted and special land use	One per facility	Maximum height 16 feet Minimum height clearance 14 feet Minimum width clearance = approved drive width plus 10 feet	48	Outside of clear vision area

Single-Family Residential — RR, RS-1, RS-2, RS-3, RS-4, LR-1, LR-2
SFR Ground Sign Requirements
Use	Number		Maximum Height (feet)	Maximum Area (square feet)	Setbacks
All nonresidential permitted and special land uses except as otherwise provided in this table	1 per lot or 2 per lot if 500 feet or more of frontage (minimum 250 foot separation)		5	20	5 feet from right-of-way lines; 10 feet from side lot lines (nonilluminated); 25 feet from side lot lines (illuminated)
Subdivisions or other residential developments	1 identification sign per entrance		5	20
Places of assembly Parochial and private primary and secondary schools Township Halls, Fire and Police Stations	1 per lot or 2 per lot if 500 feet or more of frontage (minimum 250 foot separation)		8	40

SFR Wall Sign Requirements
Use	Area Formula	Maximum Area (square feet)
All nonresidential permitted and special land uses	1 square foot for each linear foot of building frontage	20

Two-Family and Multiple-Family — R-2, R-3
R-2 and R-3 Ground Sign Requirements
Use	Number		Maximum Height (feet)	Maximum Area (square feet)		Setbacks
All nonresidential permitted and special land uses except as otherwise provided in this table	1 per lot or 2 per lot if 500 feet or more of frontage (minimum 250 foot separation)		5	20		5 feet from right-of-way lines; 10 feet from side lot lines (nonilluminated); 25 feet from side lot lines (illuminated)
Subdivisions or other residential developments	1 identification sign per entrance		5	20
Places of assembly	1 per lot or 2 per lot if 500 feet or more of frontage (minimum 250 foot separation)		8	40

R-2 and R-3 Wall Sign Requirements
Use	Area Formula	Maximum Area (square feet)
All nonresidential permitted and special land uses	1 square foot for each linear foot of building frontage	20
All residential developments

Manufactured Housing Community — MHC
MHC Ground Sign Requirements
Use	Number		Maximum Height (feet)	Maximum Area (square feet)	Setbacks
Manufactured housing communities except as otherwise provided in this table	1 identification sign per entrance		5	20	5 feet from right-of-way lines; 10 feet from side lot lines (nonilluminated); 25 feet from side lot lines (illuminated)
Places of assembly	1 per lot or 2 per lot if 500 feet or more of frontage (minimum 250 foot separation)		8	40

MHC Wall Sign Requirements
Use	Area Formula	Maximum Area (square feet)
All nonresidential permitted and special land uses	1 square foot for each linear foot of building frontage	20
All residential developments

Resource Based Recreation — RBR
RBR Ground Sign Requirements
Use		Number			Maximum Height (feet)	Maximum Area (square feet)		Setbacks
All permitted and special land use		1 per lot or development or 2 per lot if 500 feet or more of frontage (minimum 250 foot separation)			6	32		5 feet from right-of-way lines; 10 feet from side lot lines (nonilluminated); 25 feet from side lot lines (illuminated)

RBR Wall Sign Requirements
Use	Area Formula	Maximum Area (square feet)
All permitted and special land use	1 square foot for each linear foot of building frontage	32

RBR Entrance Drive Arch Sign Requirements
Use	Number	Dimensions	Maximum Area (square feet)	Setbacks
All permitted and special land use	One per facility	Maximum height 16 feet Minimum height clearance 14 feet Minimum width clearance = approved drive width plus 10 feet	48	Outside of clear vision area

Commercial and Industrial — C-1, C-2, M-1
C-1, C-2, M-1 Ground Sign Requirements
Use		Number		Maximum Height (feet)	Maximum Area (square feet)	Setbacks
All permitted and special land uses		1 per lot or 2 per lot if 500 feet or more of frontage (minimum 250 foot separation).		8	40	10 feet from right-of-way lines; 10 feet from side lot lines (nonilluminated); 25 feet from side lot lines (illuminated)

Wall Sign Requirements
Use	Area Formula	Maximum Area (square feet)
All permitted and special land uses	1 square foot for each linear foot of building frontage	C-1	40
		C-2	40
		M-1	60

C-1, C-2, M-1 Canopy Sign Requirements The area of a canopy sign shall be included in the maximum area of wall signs allowed.
Use	Area Formula	Maximum Area
All permitted and special land uses	40% of each canopy fascia, on up to 3 sides	25 square feet per fascia

Public Lands — P-L
P-L Ground Sign Requirements
Use	Number		Maximum Height (feet)	Maximum Area (square feet)	Setbacks
All uses	1 per lot or development or 2 per lot if 500 feet or more of frontage (minimum 250 foot separation).		8	32	10 feet from right-of-way lines; 10 feet from side lot lines (nonilluminated); 25 feet from side lot lines (illuminated)

P-L Wall Sign Requirements
Use	Area Formula	Maximum Area (square feet)
All uses	1 square foot for each linear foot of building frontage	32

F. Exempt signs. The following signs shall not require a zoning compliance permit:

(1) Temporary signs, not otherwise prohibited by this section, provided they comply with all of the following regulations outlined in Subsection G.

(2) Nonilluminated development sign (one per lot) of up to 24 square feet in all districts that may not be erected prior to preliminary site plan application and must be removed within 30 days after completion of the project.

(3) Nonilluminated "no trespassing," "no soliciting," or similar announcement signs on private property, each not exceeding two square feet in area.

(4) Name plates or street numbers of fewer than two square feet.

(5) Directional signs at drive entrances or other locations for providing direction to motorists on site, not exceeding two square feet in area and four feet in height.

(6) Road name signs and other signs established by state, county, or Township units of government when necessary for giving proper directions, identifying or promoting publicly held assets, or otherwise safeguarding and informing the public.

(7) Non-advertising signs erected by state, county, or Township units of government or a public utility to warn the public of dangerous conditions and unusual hazards, including, but not limited to, caving ground, drop offs, high voltage, fire danger, explosives, and severe visibility limits in any districts, of under two square feet.

(8) Window signs mounted on the interior of the window, provided that no more than 30% of the window area is obscured by window signs.

(9) Flagpoles and flags, subject to the following conditions:

(a) In all districts, up to three flagpoles not exceeding 50 feet in height may be installed, and up to two flags may be displayed per flagpole.

G. Temporary signs. Un-illuminated on-site temporary exterior signs may be erected in accordance with the regulations of this section, except that no permit shall be required.

(1) Temporary wall or window signs.

(a) In all districts, the Zoning Administrator may allow two temporary wall or window signs for up to a forty-five-day period, not more than three times per year. All temporary signs permitted under this provision shall otherwise comply with all requirements pertaining to height and area for the zoning district in which the sign is located.

(b) All temporary wall or window signs which are not properly maintained shall be removed at the order of the Zoning Administrator.

(2) Temporary ground signs.

(a) In all districts, up to three non-illuminated temporary ground signs shall be permitted per parcel, provided that the combined sign area does not exceed 40 square feet. One additional non-illuminated temporary ground sign may be permitted per every 20 feet that a parcel exceeds 100 feet of road frontage. For each additional sign, the parcel shall be permitted an additional four square feet added to the total combined sign area. The minimum setback for any temporary ground sign from any property line or public right of way shall be 10 feet.

(b) All permitted temporary ground signs may be displayed for no more than 180 days per year. Following the expiration of the 180-day period, the landowner shall remove the temporary ground sign. Failure to timely remove a temporary ground sign constitutes a violation of this section.

(c) Each sign shall have a maximum height of 48 inches from the ground and a maximum width of 96 inches, including the support structure.

(3) Banners, pennants, search lights, balloons, or other gas-filled figures are permitted at the discretion of the Zoning Administrator for the opening of a new business in a commercial or industrial district for a single period not to exceed 14 consecutive days. Such signs shall not obstruct pedestrian or vehicular view.

(4) In all districts, all types of temporary signs shall comply with the following:

(a) Temporary signs shall not be attached to any tree, shrub, natural feature, utility pole, or any structural element not capable of supporting signs or be located within any public right-of-way.

(b) Temporary signs shall not be located closer than 10 feet from the edge of the traveled portion of the roadway, nor shall they be located within any dedicated right-of-way.

(c) Temporary signs shall not be erected in such a manner that they will or may reasonably be expected to interfere with, obstruct, confuse, or mislead traffic, or to create a hazard of any kind.

(d) No temporary sign may be displayed without the consent of the legal owner of the property on which the sign is mounted or displayed.

H. Prohibited signs. The following signs are prohibited in all zoning districts:

(1) A sign resembling the flashing lights customarily used in traffic signals, or police, fire, ambulance, or rescue vehicles or signs that imitate official traffic directional signs or devices.

(2) A sign using the words, "Stop," "Danger," or any other words, phrases, symbols, or characters, in such a manner as to interfere with, mislead, or confuse a vehicle driver.

(3) Signs on parked or moving vehicles where the sign is the primary use of the vehicle.

(4) Signs that are affixed to trees, shrubs, or similar natural features; however, "no trespassing" or similar signs of under two square feet are permitted on private property.

(5) Signs affixed to fences or utility poles, or to structural elements not capable of supporting such signs.

(6) Any sign which obstructs the ingress or egress from a required door, window, or other required exit.

(7) Banner signs used as permanent signs.

(8) Signs placed within the road right-of-way, other than approved traffic control signs and devices.

(9) Electronic message centers (EMC), except as allowed in a reader board in Subsection N below.

(10) Signs with moving or revolving parts.

(11) Roof signs.

(12) Pole signs.

(13) Beacons.

(14) Signs that emit an audible sound or odor of any kind.

(15) Signs which contain obscenities according to state or federal law.

I. Abandoned signs. If a sign advertises a business, attraction, or other enterprise or activity that is no longer operating or being offered or conducted, that sign shall be considered abandoned and the sign faces shall be removed and replaced with blank faces within 30 days after written notification from the Township to the sign owner, owner of the property where the sign is located, or other party having control over the sign. Any expense incurred by the Township incidental to removal shall be paid by the sign owner, owner of the property, or other party having control over the sign.

J. Installation and maintenance. All signs and sign structures shall be erected to conform to all applicable codes adopted by the Township. Signs shall be installed in a workmanlike manner and be maintained at all times in a state of good repair, with all braces, bolts, clips, supporting frame, and fastenings free from deterioration, insect infestation, rot, rust or loosening. All signs shall be kept neatly finished, including all metal parts and supports that are not galvanized or made of rust-resistant metals.

K. Clear vision. Signs erected in the Township shall not obstruct the clear view of traffic or a local traffic sign or signal, and shall conform to § 340-14, Clear vision. If the location or design of a sign may result in a conflict with pedestrian or vehicular movement or circulation, the Township may require a clearance of up to 10 feet from the finished grade level or curb elevation to the lowest part of such sign or a front setback of up to 10 feet.

L. Measuring sign area.

(1) Sign area shall be measured as the square footage of the sign face and any frame or other material or color forming an integral part of the display or used to differentiate it from the background against which it is placed.

(2) The square footage of the sign shall consist of the area of the smallest rectangle that completely encompasses the sign, including any protruding elements.

(3) The area of a double-faced freestanding sign shall be computed using only one face of the sign, provided that the outline and dimensions of both faces are identical; and the faces are back-to-back so that only one face is visible at any given time.

M. Measuring sign height.

(1) The permitted height of all signs supported by the ground shall be measured from the level of the ground, finished surface, adjacent to the sign.

(2) The permitted height of signs shall not be measured from an area of the ground that has been built up or constructed to provide for a higher sign height than permitted by this chapter. Accordingly, the height of signs erected on a berm shall be measured from the finished grade adjacent to the berm.

N. Electronic message center/reader boards.

(1) A reader board may consist of manually or electronically changeable messages.

(2) An electronic reader board shall be subject to the following requirements:

(a) Each message shall be static. Messages may not be animated, scrolling, or flashing.

(b) Each message shall be displayed for no less than five seconds.

(c) Transition from one message to the next shall be instantaneous or may fade out and in from one message to the next, provided that the fading between messages does not last longer than one second.

(3) Commercial and industrial districts. Up to 60% of the area of a permitted sign for a commercial or industrial use in a commercial or industrial district may be utilized as a reader board.

(4) Agricultural/open space and residential districts. Up to 60% of the area of a permitted sign may be utilized as a reader board for the following uses:

(a) Places of worship.

(b) Parochial and private primary and secondary schools.

(c) Public buildings and facilities, including Township halls, fire and police stations, and libraries, but not including publicly owned and operated warehouses, garages, or storage yards.

(5) The illumination of an EMC shall conform to the criteria set forth in this section.

(a) EMC illumination measurement criteria: The luminance of an EMC shall be measured with a luminance meter set to measure footcandles accurate to at least two decimals. Illuminance shall be measured with the EMC off, and again with the EMC displaying a white image for a full-color-capable EMC, or a solid message for a single-color EMC. All measurements shall be taken perpendicular to the face of the EMC at the distance determined by the total square footage of the EMC as set forth in the accompanying Sign Area Versus Measurement Distance Table.

(b) EMC illumination limits: The difference between the off and solid-message measurements using the EMC measurement criteria shall not exceed 0.3 footcandles.

(c) Dimming capabilities: All permitted EMCs shall be equipped with a sensor or other device that automatically determines the ambient illumination and programmed to automatically dim according to ambient light conditions, or that can be adjusted to comply with the 0.3 footcandle measurements.

Sign Area Versus Measurement Distance
Area of Sign in (square feet)	Distance	Area of Sign in (square feet)	Distance
10	32	95	97
15	39	100	100
20	45	110	105
25	50	120	110
30	55	130	114
35	59	140	118
40	63	150	122
45	67	160	126
50	71	170	130
55	74	180	134
60	77	190	138
65	81	200	141
70	84	220	148
75	87	240	155
80	89	260	161
85	92	280	167
90	95	300	173

O. Illumination.

(1) Except for electronic reader boards as permitted by this section, signs shall be illuminated only by steady, stationary, shielded light sources directed solely at the sign (i.e., front-lit signs) or internal to it (i.e., backlit signs).

(a) The background of front-lit signs (i.e., external illuminated signs) may be any color, provided they are not reflective at night. However, they may use light-reflecting lettering and messaging.

(b) The background of backlit signs (i.e., internally illuminated signs) may be any color, provided the background is blacked out at night so that only the lettering and message is illuminated.

(2) Use of glaring, undiffused lights or bulbs shall be prohibited.

(3) All lighting fixtures or light sources for lighted signs shall be positioned and/or shaded so that the light source is not visible from normal traffic or pedestrian areas and does not project onto adjoining properties or thoroughfares.

(4) Underground wiring shall be required for all illuminated signs not attached to a building.

(5) All lighting shall not exceed 0.5 footcandle at a residential property line and 1.0 footcandle at a nonresidential property line.

(6) Any illuminated sign located on a lot abutting or across a street from any residential zoned or occupied property shall not be illuminated between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., except that such sign may remain illuminated during such time as the activity to which the sign pertains is open for business.

P. Nonconforming signs.

(1) Nonconforming signs in use on the effective date of this chapter, except for prohibited signs, shall be permitted to remain, provided they are properly maintained. Such maintenance is restricted to painting and minor repairs which cannot be considered a rebuilding of the sign. Extensive repairs constituting rebuilding must meet the requirements of the pertinent zoning district. A change solely in the wording of the copy or replacement of the sign face with a new face of the same size and height shall not require bringing the sign into conformance.

(2) Prohibited signs, as listed in Subsection H of this section, and any other sign that is not specifically permitted by this chapter, shall be removed no later than six months after the effective date of this chapter.

Q. Violations; removal of signs.

(1) A violation of any provision or requirement of this article is a municipal civil infraction, subject to enforcement and the fines and penalties for civil infraction violations as set forth in Chapter 55 of the Township of Putnam Code of Ordinances, in addition to the penalties set forth herein.

(a) In addition to the remedies set forth in Subsection Q(1) above, the Zoning Administrator or his/her designee shall have the right to revoke any permit issued hereunder for a violation of this section. Any of the grounds upon which the initial permit application may be denied shall also constitute grounds for such revocation. In addition, the failure of the sign erector and property owner to comply with the provisions of this article or other provisions of this Code or other law shall also constitute grounds for revocation of the permit. The sign erector and property owner shall be notified in writing by the enforcement officer or his/her designee of the specific grounds for a revocation and demand for correction and abatement. Such notice may be served personally or by registered mail, return receipt requested. The notice shall allow a maximum of 10 business days after service of the notice to correct or abate the violation. Additional time may be granted by the Zoning Administrator or his/her designee when bona fide efforts to remove or eliminate the offending condition are in progress. The notice shall provide that the sign erector and property owner may request a hearing on the notice and permit revocation by filing an appeal with the Zoning Board of Appeals.

(b) If a violation is neither remedied nor appealed within the given time period set forth by the written notice, the Zoning Administrator or his/her designee shall have the right to revoke the sign permit. Upon revocation of a permit issued pursuant to this section, the sign erector or property owner of the parcel on which the sign has been placed shall remove the sign from the property within 10 calendar days from the date of the notice and, if not so removed within the time period, the Township or Township's contractor may initiate removal of the sign. All costs associated with the removal of the sign and correction of the offense incurred by the Township, or the Township's contractor, shall be the joint and several responsibilities of the permittee and property owner. If such obligation is not paid within 30 days after mailing of the bill of costs to the property owner, the Township may place a lien upon such real property enforceable as a tax lien in the manner prescribed by the general laws of this state against the property and collected as in the case of general property tax. If the same is not paid prior to the preparation of the next assessment roll of the Township, the amount shall be assessed as a special tax against such premises on the next assessment roll and collected thereunder.

(c) The Township Zoning Administrator or designee shall have the authority to enter upon property to remove any signs located within the public right-of-way.

§ 340-160 Parking and loading general requirements.

A. Parking space requirements.

(1) The number of off-street parking spaces required for individual uses is listed with each zoning district, and in Article XIII of this chapter for certain special land uses.

(2) Uses not listed. For uses not specifically listed in the use district articles, the Zoning Administrator shall determine if the proposed use is similar to a listed use, and apply the requirements of the similar use. The Zoning Administrator may request that the determination be made by the Planning Commission. The determination of the Zoning Administrator or Planning Commission may be appealed to the Zoning Board of Appeals.

(3) Parking requirements undetermined. For special land uses where parking space requirements are not listed, the Planning Commission shall determine the appropriate number of parking spaces as a condition of approval of the special land use. The Planning Commission may, in determining the required number of spaces, require the applicant to provide a parking study, specific to the use in question, that determines peak and average parking demands for the use.

B. Determination of requirements. In determining the number of spaces required for a use, the following shall apply:

(1) Fractional results less than 1/2 (or 0.5) shall be rounded down to the nearest whole number. Fractional results of 1/2 (or 0.5) or greater shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number.

(2) When parking space requirements are based upon the number of employees, they shall be calculated upon the number of employees present during the maximum shift or work period.

(3) When parking space requirements are based upon the number of seats and seating is provided on benches or pews, each 24 inches shall be considered to be one seat. In buildings where no fixed seating is provided, the number of seats shall be based upon the seating capacity within the building as determined by the Building Inspector.

C. Parking, general.

(1) Off-street parking existing at the effective date of this chapter, or amendment thereto, in connection with the operation of an existing building or use, shall not be reduced to an amount less than required for a similar new building or new use.

(2) No new, altered or expanded parking lot serving any use other than single-family or two-family dwellings shall be constructed or occupied until site plan approval has been granted according to the requirements of Article XIV of this chapter.

(3) Accessible parking spaces, in accordance with applicable state and federal requirements, shall be shown as required on the site plan.

(4) Location.

(a) Parking spaces and access drives serving one- or two-family dwellings shall be on the same lot as the dwelling(s) served.

(b) All nonresidential parking facilities shall be either on the same premises as the building or structure being served, or within 300 feet of the subject building or structure, this distance to be the actual travel distance between the building and the facility.

(5) Except for single- and two-family dwellings, backing directly onto a street or road is prohibited.

D. Parking and storage of commercial vehicles in agricultural/open space and residential districts.

[Amended 6-15-2011 by Ord. No. 57]

(1) A commercial vehicle parked outdoors for the purpose of loading or delivery of truck-borne goods or materials may be allowed in any zoning district for a period not to exceed 12 hours. However, the Zoning Administrator may permit a commercial vehicle to be parked outdoors for the purpose of loading and/or delivery for up to 48 hours, provided that the owner of the property or the operator of the vehicle can show good cause that the extended period is necessary. The Zoning Administrator shall keep a record of any allowed extension under this subsection, along with a statement of the reasons for such allowance.

(2) This section does not restrict open storage or outdoor parking of semi-tractor trucks (designed for a combined wheelbase of 50 feet or longer) and/or semitrailers, bulldozers, earth carriers, cranes or any other commercial construction equipment or machinery, temporarily parked while in use for approved construction on such lot (i.e., active building and/or zoning compliance permit).

(3) Parking and storage of commercial vehicles in agricultural/open space and residential districts are subject to the restrictions of Table 46.

	Table 46: Parking and Storage of Commercial Vehicles
		Vehicle Classification in Pounds
	Lot Size	Class 1 and 2 10,000 or less	Class 3 and 4 10,001 to 16,000	Class 5 16,001 to 19,500	Class 6 19,500 to 26,000	Class 7 and 8 26,001 or more
	21,780 square feet or less	P1	NP	NP	NP	NP
	1 acre or more	P1	NP	NP	NP	NP
	3 acres or more	P1	P2	P2	NP	NP
	5 acres or more	P	P2	P2	P2	P3
	10 acres or more	P	P2	P2	P2	P2, 4

	Table notations:
	P =	Permitted
	NP =	Not Permitted
	1	Any vehicle equipped with a utility box or other mounted equipment that is greater than 10 feet in length shall be prohibited.
	2	The commercial vehicle/commercially used trailer must be parked in a side or rear yard but may not be parked in a required side or rear yard setback.
	3	No trailers associated with Class 7 or 8 vehicles are permitted.
	4	Only one tractor/trailer combination exceeding 50 inches in combined length is permitted.

(4) Notwithstanding the above, however, the parking or storage outdoors in a residential district of a commercial vehicle, or of a truck, van, or similar vehicle may be permitted as a residential accessory use, subject to the following requirements:

(a) No more than one commercial vehicle per dwelling unit shall qualify as an accessory use under this section.

(b) A truck or other vehicle that is used as part of an approved special land use or home-based business may be permitted subject to any conditions imposed by the Township at the time of approval of the special land use or home-based business permit.

(5) The Zoning Administrator may require additional screening through landscaping, fencing or a combination. This determination will be made based upon existing site conditions (such as topography and existing vegetation), the proposed vehicle placement and its proximity to any adjacent residence, as well as sight lines to/from any surrounding residence.

E. Off-street parking lot construction and design requirements.

(1) Setback requirements.

[Amended 3-18-2015 by Ord. No. Z-76]

(a) Except as may be otherwise permitted by this chapter, parking and pavement (other than permitted access drives from the right-of-way) are prohibited in required front yard setbacks. For multiple-family and nonresidential uses, the front yard setback adjacent to a parking area shall be landscaped in accordance with § 340-163 of this article.

(b) The Planning Commission may reduce the required front yard setback for parking in the C-1 and C-2 Zoning Districts to no less than 30 feet as a part of site plan review. When determining whether to allow a reduced setback or not, the Planning Commission shall give consideration to:

[1] The parking setback of surrounding parcels;

[2] Inclusion of additional screening;

[3] Compatibility of adjacent uses and/or zoning designations; and

[4] Any other conditions deemed appropriate by the Planning Commission.

(c) In residential districts, parking spaces and access drives are permitted within side or rear yards; however, no paving or portion of a parking space or drive may be less than one foot from a side or rear property line.

(d) In nonresidential districts, parking spaces and access drives are permitted within side or rear yards; however, no paving or portion of a parking space or drive may be less than one foot from a side or rear property line. Any parking space or drive adjacent to a property in a residential district shall be set back 30 feet from that property line, with a greenbelt as required by § 340-163 of this article.

(2) Dimensional requirements. All parking spaces and aisles shall conform to the Parking Lot Dimensional Requirements Illustration and Table.

(a) Parking spaces shall be a minimum of nine feet wide by 18 feet deep.

(b) All spaces shall be provided adequate access by means of maneuvering aisles of not less than 12 feet for one-way access and not less than 24 feet for two-way access.

Parking Lot Dimensional Requirements Illustration and Table

(3) The entire parking area, including parking spaces and maneuvering lanes, shall be hard-surfaced with a paved material, such as asphalt or concrete, in accordance with specifications of the Township Engineer. Use of pervious hard surfacing materials is encouraged and may be approved by the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission may permit gravel lots in such cases as overflow parking, storage yards and truck transport lots or intermittent special event parking.

[Amended 6-15-2011 by Ord. No. 56]

(4) Surfacing of the parking area shall be completed prior to occupancy unless seasonal restrictions apply, in which case a performance guarantee shall be provided which ensures that paving occurs by a specified time the following season.

(5) Off-street parking areas shall be drained so as to dispose of stormwater. All surface water accumulated in the parking area shall be drained to prevent drainage of water onto adjacent property or toward buildings. Sunken landscape islands and rain gardens are preferred as a means to avoid large detention basins. The slope of any detention basin shall be located at least four feet from any property line or sidewalk, and shall be approved by the Livingston County Road Commission or the Michigan Department of Transportation, as applicable, if adjacent to a county or state road.

(6) All parking spaces shall be striped with paint or other approved material, at least four inches in width. The striping shall be maintained and clearly visible.

(7) Bumper stops or curbing sufficient to keep vehicles from encroaching on property lines, landscaping areas or sidewalks shall be provided. Where a parking space terminates adjacent to a sidewalk, the sidewalk shall be at least seven feet wide if the vehicle overhangs onto the sidewalk.

(8) The off-street parking area shall be provided with lighting, landscaping and screening as required in this chapter.

(9) Except as may be approved as a special land use for an open air business, the following is prohibited upon the areas designated for parking, access and maneuvering:

(a) The outdoor storage or display of merchandise;

(b) Motor vehicles for sale;

(c) Trucks or equipment;

(d) Wrecked, junked or unlicensed vehicles;

(e) Repair of vehicles.

(10) Parking lot access.

(a) Adequate ingress and egress to and from the parking lot by means of clearly limited and defined drives shall be provided for all vehicles.

(b) Ingress and egress to and from a parking lot located in a nonresidential district shall not be across land zoned in a residential district or land used for residential purposes.

(11) Stacking spaces.

(a) Drive-up and drive-through uses requiring stacking spaces are all special land uses, and the number of required spaces for each use shall be provided as required in Article XIII of this chapter. Each stacking space shall be shown on a site plan.

(b) Each stacking space shall have a minimum dimension shown of 22 feet in length by nine feet in width. The lane containing the stacking spaces shall be separate and distinct from other access drives and maneuvering lanes for parking spaces.

(c) The location of stacking spaces shall be placed to avoid undue interference with on-site parking and to prevent unnecessary hazards to pedestrians.

(d) Regardless of the number of stacking spaces required or provided, in no instance shall the operator permit vehicles to stack into any adjacent public or private road.

(12) Snow storage.

(a) For parking lots having more than 100 spaces, the site plan shall designate snow storage areas.

(b) Storage areas may be provided only within a side or rear yard, and shall not be permitted to hinder the vision of drivers or pedestrians within the parking area.

(c) The snow storage area shall be equal to at least 10% of the size of the planned parking lot. The area used for calculation of snow storage shall not include deferred parking areas, until such time as the deferred parking area is converted to parking.

(d) Snow shall be removed as necessary to maintain the number of required parking spaces.

F. Maximum, deferred and shared parking.

(1) Maximum parking requirement.

(a) To minimize excessive areas of pavement which detract from the aesthetics of an area and contribute to high rates of stormwater runoff, no parking lot shall have parking spaces totaling more than an amount equal to 10% greater than the minimum parking space requirements, as determined by the parking requirements in each zoning district, except as may be approved by the Planning Commission.

(b) The Planning Commission, upon application or during the site plan review process, may grant additional spaces beyond those permitted in Subsection F(1)(a) above. In granting additional spaces, the Planning Commission shall determine that the parking area otherwise permitted will be inadequate to accommodate the minimum parking needs of the particular use and that the additional parking will be required to avoid overcrowding of the parking area. The actual number of permitted spaces shall be based on professional documented evidence of use and demand provided by the applicant. The Planning Commission may, upon approval of additional spaces, impose conditions to ensure that adequate additional landscaping is provided and the intent of this chapter is met.

(2) Deferred parking. The Planning Commission may defer construction of the required number of parking spaces if the following conditions are met:

(a) Areas proposed for deferred parking shall be shown on the site plan, and shall be sufficient for construction of the required number of parking spaces in accordance with the standards of this chapter for parking area design and other site development requirements.

(b) Alterations to the deferred parking area may be initiated by the owner or required by the Zoning Administrator.

(c) All or a portion of such deferred parking shall be constructed if required by the Zoning Administrator upon a determination that such additional parking is needed.

(3) Shared parking areas.

(a) The Planning Commission may approve a shared parking arrangement for two or more uses to utilize the same off-street parking facility where the operating hours of the uses do not significantly overlap.

(b) The shared parking arrangement shall be in a recordable format and signed by the owner(s) of each property. The agreement shall be recorded with the Livingston County Register of Deeds and a copy of the recorded document shall be provided to the Zoning Administrator.

(c) Required parking shall be calculated from the use that requires the greatest number of spaces.

(d) Should any use involved in the shared parking arrangement change to another use, the Planning Commission may revoke this approval and require separate parking facilities as required by this chapter.

§ 340-161 Exterior lighting.

The following lighting standards shall apply to all uses requiring site plan review.

A. All outdoor lighting shall be shielded to reduce glare and shall be placed so that a nuisance is not created for adjacent residential districts or residential homes.

B. All outdoor lighting, with the exception of those ground-based lights with the purpose of illuminating governmental flags, shall be directed and confined toward the ground and shall not impair the safe movement of automobile traffic on any street. Flag lighting shall be directed to illuminate the flag only and shall be placed so that lighting or glare is not directed toward streets or adjacent properties.

C. Lighting shall be provided throughout any commercial or industrial parking lot and throughout any new residential development. Lights to illuminate parking lots shall not be attached to any building.

D. Height.

(1) Light fixtures shall have a maximum height of 15 feet when in a residential district and 20 feet when the use or zoning district is adjacent to a residential district. Light fixtures shall have a maximum height of 25 feet when in a district adjacent to a nonresidential district.

(2) The height of a fixture shall be measured from the parking lot grade to the nearest portion of the light source. No portion of the fixture may extend more than one additional foot higher than the maximum heights listed above.

E. Lighting shall be required by the Planning Commission for any roads being constructed as part of or in advance of any new development. Such lighting shall be of a decorative nature and type shall be at the discretion of the Planning Commission. All streetlighting shall be of a pedestrian or human scale.

F. Reasonable use of lighting for security purposes shall be permitted; however, the Planning Commission retains the right to prohibit the full use of the total lights on a parcel, i.e., allowing only a portion of the lights to be in use 24 hours per day. This requirement does not extend to residential subdivisions where it may be necessary to operate all interior streetlighting 24 hours per day.

G. Requirements.

(1) Under-canopy lighting.

(a) Canopy lighting shall be mounted flush with the canopy surface.

(b) No light fixture shall protrude below the underside (fascia) of any canopy.

(2) Fixtures.

(a) Lighting fixtures shall be a down-lighted type having 100% cutoff.

[1] Protruding lenses shall be prohibited.

[2] Unless otherwise approved by the Planning Commission, light sources shall be high-pressure sodium. Approved exceptions shall use warm light or natural lamp colors.

(b) Illumination levels. All lighting shall not exceed 0.5 footcandle at a residential property line and 1.0 footcandle at a nonresidential property line. Illumination levels shall be measured with a footcandle meter or sensitive photometer and expressed in footcandles

H. Lighting plans.

(1) Compliance with the lighting design criteria shall be demonstrated by submitting the following information for review:

(a) Lighting plan (as part of the site plan package) showing light fixture locations and type designations.

(b) Lighting equipment specifications and data sheets.

(c) Any other materials or information required to convey the intent of the lighting design.

(2) Photometric plans. The Planning Commission may require the submission of a photometric plan (lighting grid) prepared by an electrical engineer graphically illustrating the planned layout and design of the lighting. This plan is required for all parking areas. The photometric plan shall show horizontal luminance levels in a point-by-point format with contour lines. The photometric plan shall be provided for an empty and a full parking lot. Canopy lighting must also be included in luminance levels.

§ 340-162 Natural features setback.

A. Intent and purpose. It is the intent of this section to require a minimum setback from natural features, and to regulate property within such setback in order to prevent physical harm, impairment and/or destruction of or to a natural feature. It has been determined that, in the absence of such a minimum setback, intrusions in or onto natural features would occur, resulting in harm, impairment and/or destruction of natural features contrary to the public health, safety and general welfare. Furthermore, it is the purpose of this article to establish and preserve minimum setback from natural features in order to recognize and protect the special interrelationship and interdependency between the natural feature and the setback area. This includes the role of the setback area for meeting the natural feature's biological, hydrological, mineral, spatial, and ecological needs. This regulation is based on the police power, for the protection of the public health, safety and welfare, including the authority granted in the Zoning Enabling Act.[1]

[1] Editor's Note: See MCLA § 125.3101 et seq.

B. Definitions. As used in this section, the following terms shall have the meanings indicated:

NATURAL FEATURE

For the purposes of establishing setback standards in this section, a protected wetland or watercourse, as defined below.

NATURALLY VEGETATED

Vegetation consisting of any number of grasses, shrubs, trees and other native plants. It does not include lawn and other types of turf grasses and may not be groomed, mowed or otherwise altered.

PROTECTED WETLANDS

Any of the following:

(1) All wetlands subject to regulation by the MDEQ, including:

(a) Wetlands, regardless of size, which are contiguous to any lake, stream, river, or pond, whether partially or entirely contained within the project site.

(b) Wetlands, regardless of size, which are partially or entirely within 500 feet of the ordinary high water mark of any lake, stream, river or pond unless it is determined by the MDEQ that there is no surface water or groundwater connection between the wetland and the water body.

(c) Wetlands which are larger than five acres, whether partially or entirely contained within the project site, and which are not contiguous to any lake, stream, river, or pond.

(d) Wetlands, regardless of size, which are not contiguous to any lake, stream, river, or pond, if the MDEQ determines the protection of the wetland is essential to the preservation of the natural resources of the state from pollution, impairment or destruction.

(2) Other wetlands subject to regulation by the Township of Putnam, including:

(a) Wetlands two acres or greater in size, whether partially or entirely contained within the project site, which are not contiguous to an inland lake or pond, stream, or river.

(b) Wetlands smaller than two acres but not less than one acre in size that are not contiguous to a inland lake or pond, river or stream and are determined to be essential to the preservation of the natural resources of the Township of Putnam as provided for in § 330-14 of Chapter 330, Wetlands Protection.

TOWNSHIP WETLAND CONSULTANT

A person(s) or firm knowledgeable in wetland protection and delineation, who is identified by the Township of Putnam to make wetlands determinations, delineate wetlands, and advise the Township on wetland resource policy, education, and restoration, in accordance with Chapter 330, Wetlands Protection.

WATERCOURSE

Any waterway including a river, stream, lake, pond or any body of surface water having definite banks, a bed and visible evidence of a continued flow or continued occurrence of water. For the purposes of this section, Hi-Land Lake shall not be considered a watercourse. A watercourse may or may not be serving as a drain as defined by Act 40 of the Public Acts of 1956, as amended.

WETLAND

Land characterized by the presence of water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that under normal circumstances does support, wetland vegetation or aquatic life, and is commonly referred to as a bog, swamp or marsh.

C. Authorization and prohibition.

(1) The natural feature setback shall be determined in accordance with the standards and provision in Subsection E, below, in relation to the respective types of natural features. The applicant is responsible for determining whether natural features, as defined above, exist on the site and determining the boundaries of such natural features. The applicant is also responsible for clearly marking and flagging the boundaries of the site's natural features. The determination and marking of natural features shall be made by either Michigan Department of Environmental Quality Staff, the Putnam Township Wetland Consultant or other outside professional consultant, trained to delineate wetlands and other natural features, retained by the applicant when necessary. Sources of information on natural features within Putnam Township include, but are not limited to, the Township Wetland Inventory Map, Natural Features Map and Livingston County Soil Maps.

(2) The Township Wetland Consultant and Planning Commission will confirm these determinations during the zoning compliance permitting, site plan or plot plan review process. To ensure accuracy and compliance, the natural features setback line shall be field-verified by the Township Wetland Consultant. The field-verified setback lines shall be shown on all site plans, plot plans, and other construction drawings.

(3) The Township Planning Commission, Zoning Administrator or Township Wetland Consultant shall determine the appropriate natural feature setbacks, in accordance with Subsection E below, whenever a plan is submitted to develop property or undertake an operation in, on or adjacent to a natural feature as defined by this section.

(4) The Putnam Township Wetland Inventory Map or Natural Features Map is to be used by the Zoning Administrator, Planning Commission, and Zoning Board of Appeals to help determine if a subject property contains a natural feature and if the natural feature setbacks are necessary. The Putnam Township Wetland Inventory Map or Natural Features Map is not to be used for site-specific natural feature determinations. Such determinations should be made through site visits. The Putnam Township Wetland Inventory Map or Natural Features Map may be amended in the future to reflect more recent findings of local natural features for setback requirements.

D. Naturally vegetated strip.

(1) A minimum strip bordering each bank of any natural feature, as measured from the wetland boundary or ordinary high water line, shall be maintained in its natural vegetative state, except for the permitted clearing of dead or noxious plants and for the permitted uses noted in § 340-19, Accessory structures, Subsection G, Waterfront lots.

(2) Any at-grade walkway constructed inside the strip shall be on dry land and may be oriented perpendicular to the water line. Because the intent of the native protective strip is water quality protection, impervious materials such as asphalt or concrete shall not be used.

(3) The Zoning Administrator may allow limited clearing of the vegetative strip when required for the construction of a permitted building or structure outside the vegetative strip, provided that the land cleared is returned to a vegetative state which is of approximately the same quality (or greater) and extent as that which existed prior to the clearing.

(4) Individual trees within the native protective strip which are in danger of falling, causing damage to dwellings or other structures, or causing blockage of the watercourse or water body may be removed upon verification of existing conditions from the Zoning Administrator.

(5) The native protective strip shall not be used for any motorized vehicular traffic or parking, or for storage of junk, waste, or garbage, or for any other use not otherwise authorized by this chapter. The temporary storage of watercraft and associated equipment is permitted.

E. Setbacks throughout Township. The following setbacks from natural features shall apply in all districts except in the LR-1 District:

(1) A thirty-foot naturally vegetated strip setback from the boundary or edge of a protected wetland, as defined in Subsection B, Definitions, and as shown on the Township Wetland Inventory Map.

(2) A thirty-foot naturally vegetated strip setback from the ordinary high water line of any watercourse, as defined in Subsection B, Definitions, and as shown on the Township Natural Features Map.

(3) A thirty-foot building and construction setback from the ordinary high water mark of any watercourse or above the elevation of the one-hundred-year floodplain, as shown on local Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRM), whichever is greater.

[Amended 10-17-2012 by Ord. No. Z-66]

F. Prohibited and allowed uses within the natural features setback area.

(1) Prohibited uses.

(a) Removal of natural vegetation within the required naturally vegetated strip;

(b) Any land-disturbing activity, including grading, stripping or other practices, within the naturally vegetated strip;

(c) Filling or dumping within the naturally vegetated strip;

(d) Construction;

(e) Septic tanks or drain fields;

(f) Placement of any impervious surface;

(g) Storage of landscape chemicals, hazardous materials, motorized vehicles and other potential pollutants.

(2) Allowed uses.

(a) Flood control structures and stormwater management facilities approved by the Livingston County Drain Commissioner;

(b) Utility rights-of-way and utility-related infrastructure;

(c) Unpaved pathways;

(d) Farm and forestry activities in compliance with federal and state Department of Forestry and Department of Agriculture requirements;

(e) Limited removal of diseased/hazardous trees, with verification provided by a certified arborist (verification might also be provided by MSU Extension, Department of Forestry, MDNR or MDEQ staff);

(f) Restoration activities, such as replacing nonnative vegetation with native species, consistent with accepted best management practices and all federal, state and local regulations;

(g) On waterfront lots as defined in Article II of this chapter, accessory structures as permitted in § 340-19G of this chapter.

§ 340-163 Landscaping, buffering and screening.

A. Intent. It is the intent of this section to require landscaping for all site condominium, multiple-family and nonresidential development, so as to integrate development into the natural landscape, provide shade, allow for the environmental and ecological benefits of plants and landscaping, and provide for the economic benefits of attractively landscaped developments.

B. Landscape plan. A complete landscape plan shall be submitted as part of any final site plan review application. The landscape plan shall include, but not necessarily be limited to, the following items:

(1) Identification of natural features, wetlands, natural drainage areas, woodlots, existing freestanding trees outside of a woodlot over 12 inches in diameter, and vegetative cover to be preserved.

(2) Location, spacing, size and descriptions for each plant type proposed for use within the required landscape area.

(3) Identification of areas to be grass or other ground cover and method of planting.

(4) Typical straight cross-section including slope, height, and width of berms and swales, or height and type of construction of wall or fence, including footings.

(5) Significant construction details to resolve specific site conditions, such as tree wells to preserve existing trees or culverts to maintain natural drainage patterns.

(6) Identification of landscape maintenance program including statement that all diseased, damaged, or dead materials shall be replaced in accordance with standards of this section.

(7) General landscaping requirements:

(a) Landscaping requirements may be waived to the extent that existing vegetation to be retained on site meets or exceeds ordinance requirements for landscaping, screening or buffering.

(b) The use of landscaping for alternative stormwater management techniques, such as green roofs, rain gardens and vegetative swales, is encouraged. Where such measures are incorporated into the site plan, the Township Board may waive some of the planting requirements of this section, upon a finding from the Planning Commission that the proposed site landscaping meets the intent of this section and that the alternative stormwater management techniques improve drainage or protect sensitive natural features (such as streams, lakes or wetlands) on the site and/or within the surrounding area.

(c) Existing landscaping:

[1] Existing trees shall be labeled "To Be Removed" or "To Be Saved" on the site plan. If existing plant material is labeled "To Be Saved" on the site plan, protective measures shall be implemented, such as the placement of a tree guard at the critical root zone around each tree. No vehicle or other construction equipment shall be parked or stored within the critical root zone of any tree or other plant material intended to be saved.

[2] All existing, healthy live trees in excess of 12 inches in diameter measured at 4 1/2 feet above the ground shall be preserved outside the immediate building area of the site.

[3] In the event that healthy plant materials which are intended to meet the requirements of this chapter are cut down, damaged or destroyed, said plant material shall be replaced with the same species as the damaged or removed tree or an approved substitute. The Planning Commission may require up to three new trees with a diameter of 2 1/2 inches each to replace any tree over 12 inches in diameter that is cut down, damaged or destroyed.

(8) Landscaping within required setbacks.

(a) All required front setbacks shall be landscaped with a minimum of one canopy or shade tree and four shrubs, for each 30 lineal feet (or major portion thereof) of frontage abutting the right-of-way. Accessways from public rights-of-way shall not be subtracted from the lineal dimension used to determine the minimum number of trees and shrubs required.

(b) All required side and rear setbacks shall be landscaped with a minimum of one canopy, under story, or evergreen tree and three shrubs, for each 40 lineal feet (or major portion thereof) along property lines.

(9) Parking lot landscaping.

(a) Parking lots exceeding 10 parking spaces shall provide the equivalent of one landscape island or perimeter peninsula or bump-out for every 15 spaces of parking. Each landscape island, peninsula or bump-out shall be at least 180 square feet in size, with a minimum width of three feet. Landscape islands shall be landscaped with one canopy or ornamental tree and two shrubs for every 60 square feet of landscaping island. Receded landscape islands are encouraged to manage stormwater on site.

(b) Required landscaping at the perimeter of parking lots. In addition to the setback parking requirements listed above, separate landscape areas shall be provided at the perimeter of parking lots in accordance with the following requirements:

[1] Notwithstanding this requirement, on a corner property, landscaping must be located so that intersection visibility is not impaired, in accordance with § 340-14 of this chapter.

[2] A three-foot tall decorative wall or a hedgerow, consisting of evergreen shrubs at least three feet in height, shall be provided in front of any parking spaces located within 50 feet of a neighboring property or right-of-way line, to screen headlights.

[3] Landscaping may be required to serve as windbreaks.

(10) Screening.

(a) As part of site plan review, screening shall be required on the subject parcel in the following situations, except as may be provided elsewhere in this chapter:

[1] Around all trash dumpsters for all multiple-family and nonresidential uses.

[2] Around permitted designated outdoor storage areas.

[3] Around any loading/unloading area.

[4] Around both roof and ground-mounted outdoor mechanical equipment, except for single-family and two-family uses.

(b) Screening shall be required on the subject parcel even if the surrounding area or adjacent parcels are unimproved.

(c) When any developed parcel changes to a different land use, screening shall be provided in compliance with this chapter.

(d) If existing conditions on the subject parcel are such that a parcel cannot comply with the screening requirements, the Planning Commission shall determine the character of the screen based on the following criteria:

[1] Traffic access and circulation.

[2] Building and parking lot coverage.

[3] Outdoor sales, display, or manufacturing area.

[4] Physical characteristics of the site and surrounding area such as topography, vegetation, etc.

[5] Views and noise levels.

[6] Public health, safety, and welfare.

(e) Screening standards. All required screens shall meet the following standards:

[1] A screen shall consist of a solid, sight-obscuring fence or wall six feet high, which shall be constructed of material that is compatible with the architectural materials used in the site development.

[2] Containers and enclosures shall be located away from public view insofar as possible and shall not be located in any front yard or any required side yard. A container or enclosure may be located within a rear yard, provided that is located at least 20 feet from the rear lot line.

[3] Containers and enclosures shall be situated so that they do not cause excessive nuisance or offense to occupants of nearby buildings.

[4] Concrete pads of appropriate size and construction shall be provided for all containers, including but not limited to recycling containers or food service waste fat and oil containers.

[5] Containers or enclosures shall be enclosed on all sides and shall not contain any openings other than a gate for access, which shall be closed at all times when not in use. The Planning Commission may require bollards or similar barriers to protect the enclosure from being struck by vehicles.

[6] The fence or wall shall be constructed of masonry, treated wood, or other material approved by the Planning Commission if determined to be durable, weather-resistant, rustproof, and easily maintained. The enclosure shall be maintained in good repair at all times.

[7] All other applicable standards of this section shall be met.

(11) Greenbelts.

(a) When required.

[1] A greenbelt shall be required whenever a property in a commercial or industrial district abuts property in the A-O District and/or any residential district, or when a property in the R-3 District abuts any property in the RS Districts or the R-2 District.

[2] The Planning Commission may also require a landscaped greenbelt in conjunction with approval of a site plan, planned unit development or special land use. When a greenbelt is required as a buffer between single-/two-family uses and multifamily or nonresidential uses, it shall be placed on the multifamily or nonresidential district property. The Planning Commission shall approve the location, size, shape, materials and other specifications for the greenbelt subject to the general requirements of this section.

(b) The required greenbelt may be comprised of berms, required plant material in this section, additional plant material where required landscaping materials are insufficient, walls, fences, or any combination thereof.

(c) When the property in the adjoining district is located on the opposite side of a street right-of-way, the greenbelt shall be located within the required front yard setback and shall be landscaped according to the requirements for front yard setback as required by Subsection B(8)(a) of this section. In addition, the greenbelt shall also be landscaped with a minimum of one evergreen tree for every 20 linear feet, or fraction thereof, of frontage abutting a public road right-of-way. Evergreen trees within a greenbelt shall be a minimum height of six feet at the time of planting.

(d) For greenbelts along all other property lines, in addition to the landscaping within the required side and rear setbacks listed in Subsection B(8)(b) of this section, the greenbelts shall be landscaped with four shrubs for every 20 linear feet and with grass, ground cover, or other natural landscape materials.

(e) Landscaped areas which do not contain trees or planting beds shall be covered with grass or other living ground cover.

(f) Detention/retention areas shall be permitted within the required greenbelt, provided they do not hamper the screening intent of the greenbelt or jeopardize the survival of the plant materials.

(g) The Planning Commission may reduce the landscaping requirements when berms, fences or decorative walls are used as buffers; however, along the property lines, there shall be no linear gaps between trees or shrubs greater than 50 feet. Trees located behind the fence or wall shall be counted toward this requirement.

(12) Landscaping requirements:

(a) Landscaping shall be installed such that, when mature, it does not obscure traffic signs, fire hydrants, or lighting, or obstruct vision for safety of ingress or egress.

(b) A raised, rolled, or subsurface curb or curb stops shall protect all landscape islands and landscaped areas immediately adjacent to parking spaces. There shall also be a means of protecting site trees against injury from mowing equipment.

(c) Landscaped areas shall be arranged to simulate a natural setting such as staggered rows or clusters. The Planning Commission may, if requested by the applicant, approve a formal landscaping arrangement if it complements the site or building design and provides a more aesthetically pleasing appearance.

(d) Landscaping shall be designed to blend with that on adjacent parcels where a road, walkway or other pathway flows between parcels.

(e) All landscaping required by this chapter shall be planted before obtaining a certificate of occupancy, and/or the release of any appropriate financial guarantee, such as a bond, letter of credit, or escrow account, and shall be recorded with the Township in the amount of the cost of landscaping, to be released only after landscaping is completed.

(f) All landscaping and landscape elements shall be planted, and earthmoving or grading performed, in a sound workmanlike manner, according to accepted planting and grading procedures.

(g) The owner of property required to be landscaped by this chapter shall maintain such landscaping in a strong and healthy condition, free from refuse, debris, and insects. Any dead or diseased plants shall be removed and replaced within six months.

(h) Minimum plant sizes at time of installation shall be according to the chart below.

	Table 47: Minimum Plant Sizes at Installation
	Plant Type	Minimum Size
	Deciduous canopy tree	2.5 inches caliper 4 feet off the ground
	Deciduous ornamental tree	2 inches caliper 4 feet off the ground
	Evergreen tree	6 feet in height
	Deciduous shrub	2 feet in height
	Upright evergreen shrub	2 feet in height
	Spreading evergreen shrub	18 to 24 inch spread

(i) A mixture of plant material, such as evergreen deciduous trees and shrubs, is recommended as a protective measure against insect and disease infestation. The overall landscape plan shall not contain more than 25% of any one plant species.

(j) Where a berm is provided for the purposes of screening and buffering, it shall have a maximum slope of one foot of vertical rise to three feet of horizontal distance (1:3) with a crest area at least four feet wide.

(k) The following trees are not permitted as they split easily; their wood is brittle and breaks easily; their roots clog drains and sewers; and they are unusually susceptible to disease or insect pests. These plant materials may be permitted to remain in their natural setting but cannot be transplanted. The Planning Commission, however, may allow trees from this list when associated with an appropriate ecosystem, such as a wetland area.

	Table 48: Undesirable Plant Materials
	Common Name	Genus Species
	American Elm	Ulmus Americana
	Ash (all varieties)	Fraxinus
	Box elder	Acer negundo
	Eastern red cedar	Juniperus Virginiana
	European barberry	Berberis thunbergii
	Horse chestnut (nut bearing)	Aesculus hippocastanum
	Mulberry	Morus species
	Northern catalpa	Catalpa speciosa
	Poplar (all varieties)	Populus
	Soft maple (silver)	Acer sacharinum
	Tree of heaven	Ailanthus altissima
	Willow	Salix spp.

C. Performance guarantee.

(1) Unless waived by the Planning Commission, a performance guarantee shall be provided in accordance with the requirements of this chapter of sufficient amount to ensure the installation of all required landscaping. This guarantee shall remain in effect for up to two years after all landscaping is installed.

(2) If installation of landscaping is interrupted by unusual weather events (such as an early frost or prolonged drought) or by the onset of winter, the applicant shall submit a performance guarantee in an amount equal to the cost of purchase and installation of the remaining landscaping.

§ 340-163.1 Stormwater management.

[Added 7-20-2022 by Ord. No. Z-115]

The following standards shall apply whenever there is an increase in lot coverage in order to protect the quality of waterbodies, groundwater, and wetlands and the general environment in the Township.

A. General provisions. All properties shall comply with the following standards for stormwater.

(1) Pretreatment. Stormwater shall not be discharged directly into a waterbody or wetland without some form of pretreatment to remove sediments and other pollutants.

(2) On-site detention. All sites shall retain any additional stormwater due to increased lot coverage on-site or shall detain it and allow discharge without a negative impact on adjacent properties, streets, waterbodies, or wetlands.

(3) Natural drainage patterns. Alterations to natural drainage patterns shall not increase runoff, create flooding, or contribute to water pollution.

(4) Adverse impacts. Stormwater shall be managed in a manner that prevents flood hazards and water pollution related to runoff, soil erosion, and channel erosion.

(5) Level of service. Land shall not be altered in a manner that will reduce the level of service currently being provided by an existing stormwater system or natural drainage patterns.

(6) Increased volume. Any increase volume of runoff shall not create adverse impacts to adjacent properties, streets, waterbodies, or wetlands.

(7) Swales. Stormwater shall be conveyed through swales or vegetated buffer strips to the greatest extent practicable, in order to decrease velocity, allow for natural infiltration, encourage passive storage, allow suspended sediment particles to settle, and to remove pollutants.

B. Plot plans. In addition to the general provisions above, all plot plans with a lot coverage of more than 35%, unless a part of an larger site plan with an overall stormwater management system, or with lot coverage added within 30 feet of a waterbody or wetland shall meet the following additional standards.

(1) Stormwater management plan. A stormwater management plan prepared by a professional engineer shall be submitted. The submission of an application constitutes a representation that all of the information is complete and accurate. A stormwater management plan shall include the following:

(a) Application. A signed and completed application form;

(b) Fee or deposit. An application fee and/or deposit, as outlined in the adopted fee schedule;

(c) Calculations. Calculations showing the current and proposed lot coverage, volume of stormwater created during a one-inch rain event, and stormwater storage volume;

(d) Plan. A plan showing the current and proposed lot coverage, the flow of water on the site, and the location of gutters, downspouts, swales, pipes, cleanouts, and water storage areas;

(e) Maintenance plan. A plan describing the maintenance of the stormwater system; and

(f) Additional materials. Any addition information determined necessary by the Zoning Administrator or Township Engineer to determine compliance with this section and other applicable laws or standards.

(2) Capacity. Stormwater systems shall be designed, installed, and maintained to capture and treat stormwater runoff, as outlined below.

(a) New lot coverage. Stormwater systems shall be designed to capture and treat at least the first one inch of stormwater runoff from all new lot coverage.

(b) Substantial improvements. When substantial improvements are being made, stormwater systems shall be designed to capture and treat at least the first one inch of stormwater runoff from all existing and new lot coverage.

(c) Unusual characteristics. A greater volume may be required if the proposed land use, slope, or underlying soil types are expected to increase the stormwater runoff or to provide a safety margin due to characteristics of the stormwater system or maintenance.

(3) Administration. Stormwater management plans shall be administered as described below.

(a) Review and approval. Stormwater management plans shall be reviewed and approved by the Zoning Administrator and the Township Engineer.

(b) Performance guarantee. The Zoning Administrator may require submission of a performance guarantee, as outlined in § 340-176, Performance guarantee, before review of a stormwater management plan.

(c) Zoning compliance permit. A stormwater management plan shall be approved before issuance of a zoning compliance permit.

(d) Construction and inspection. Stormwater management systems shall be constructed and installed consistent with approved plans. It shall be the applicant's responsibility to contact the Township to arrange for all necessary inspections.

(e) Certificate of compliance. The stormwater management system shall be inspected and approved by the Township Engineer before the zoning certificate of compliance can be approved.

(4) Maintenance. Stormwater management systems shall be properly maintained to ensure they function as designed.

C. Site plans. In addition to the general provisions above, all site plans shall meet the Rules and Design Criteria of the Livingston County Drain Commissioner.

§ 340-163.2 Grading.

[Added 7-20-2022 by Ord. No. Z-116]

Grading shall meet the following standards in order to protect soil resources, adjacent properties, streets, and waterbodies and to provide adequate drainage of surface water.

A. Flow restrictions. Buildings shall be constructed with grading that slopes away from the building, draining stormwater to a natural or established drainage course in a manner that avoids negative impacts on properties, streets, waterbodies, or wetlands, the erosion or filling of a ditch, the blockage of a public watercourse, or the creation of standing water of any sewage drainage field.

B. Natural features. Grading shall limit the impact on natural features of the property to the extent practicable.

C. Runoff changes. Grading shall allow surface water drainage without encroaching onto adjacent properties, except for runoff that follows existing drainage patterns and flow rates.

D. Elevation changes. Grading shall maintain the existing grade elevation along lot lines. The grade along lot lines may be changed with written consent of all affected property owners.

E. Filling sensitive areas. Grading within a floodplain or state-regulated wetland shall only be allowed if permitted by the Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy. A copy of the permit shall be provided to the Township.

F. Driveways. Driveways shall be located in an area to provide adequate grading to prevent conflict with stormwater drainage.

G. Construction drainage. Adjacent properties shall not be burdened with additional drainage from a property on which construction is taking place unless drainage easements have been granted by the burdened property.

H. Clearing of site. Striping and removal of topsoil from a site shall be prohibited before the completion of all necessary mitigation measures to prevent erosion or sedimentation.

I. Performance guarantee. The Zoning Administrator may require submission of a performance guarantee, as outlined in § 340-176, Performance guarantee, to ensure completion of final grading.

J. Certificate of compliance. The final grading shall be inspected and approved by the Zoning Administrator or Township Engineer before the zoning certificate of compliance can be approved.