Part 3 (Land Development/Site Planning) provides specific standards for the design of developments as well as requirements for improvements. Minimum standards of design are specified for each element of design or improvement. This article outlines the general goals of Part 3 (Land Development/Site Planning). The provisions of these standards may be waived by the approving body upon written request by the applicant, provided the applicant provides appropriate alternatives which demonstrate compliance with the desired outcome to a higher degree or will produce more desirable results than application of a specific standard.
The design of a property shall be based upon an analysis of the existing conditions on the site, including all natural and man-made features. The analysis shall include an examination of the opportunities and constraints of the site based upon the existing conditions. The site analysis must also consider the relationship of the site to the surrounding neighborhood. The project narrative shall summarize the site analysis and how it influenced the design of the property.
Before considering requests for waivers or modifications of the standards or requirements contained in this Part 2 (Subdivisions), the Commission may require the applicant to prepare an alternative development plan which complies with the requirements of this Part 2 (Subdivisions). The original proposal shall then be considered in light of the alternative presented.
No construction-related permit, including foundation permits, building permits, or other related permits, shall be issued for a lot subject to land development review unless the plans approved under this article have been approved and recorded and all improvements shown thereon have been bonded. It is strongly recommended, but not required, that applicants withhold application for such permits until approvals under this part have been obtained, as significant changes may occur during the approval process which could substantially alter the plans required for those permits.
All permits necessary for the construction of improvements and buildings upon lots shown on an approved land development plan shall be obtained and substantially completed within five years of the date of approval. Lots which do not comply with this section will require new approval after the expiration of the fifth year. Application for such approval shall be made under the appropriate article(s) of this Part 3 (Land Development/Site Planning). Phasing plans for a longer-term construction phase may be considered for larger proposals or other special circumstances.