A. 
Meanings and intent.
(1) 
Words and terms expressly defined in this chapter, including those defined in Article 14, have the specific meanings assigned unless the context indicates another meaning.
(2) 
Words that are not expressly defined in this chapter have the meaning assigned in Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary.
B. 
Conjunctions. Unless the context otherwise expressly indicates, conjunctions have the following meanings:
(1) 
"And" indicates that all connected items or provisions apply; and
(2) 
"Or" indicates that the connected items or provisions may apply singularly or in combination.
C. 
Computation of time.
(1) 
All references to "days" are to calendar days unless otherwise expressly stated. Any references to "business days" are references to regular City government working days, excluding Saturdays, Sundays and holidays observed by City government.
(2) 
The time in which an act is to be completed is computed by excluding the first day and including the last day. If the last day is a Saturday, Sunday or holiday observed by City government, that day is excluded.
(3) 
A day concludes at the close of business and any materials received by the City after that time will be considered to have been received the following day.
D. 
Tenses and usage.
(1) 
Words used in the singular include the plural. The reverse is also true.
(2) 
Words used in the present tense include the future tense. The reverse is also true.
(3) 
The words "shall," "will," and "must" are mandatory.
(4) 
The phrase "may not" means that the subject act is prohibited.
E. 
Lists and examples. Unless otherwise expressly indicated, lists of items or examples that use "including," "such as," or similar terms are intended to provide examples only. They are not to be construed as exhaustive lists of all possibilities.
F. 
Use definitions. See Article 5 for an explanation of the use categorization system used in this chapter and for use type definitions.
G. 
Measurement-related terms. See § 660-131.
H. 
Abbreviations. Certain terms are sometimes abbreviated in this chapter. Abbreviations have the meanings assigned in Table 660-17.
Table 660-17. Abbreviations
Abbreviation
Meaning
ACPC
Allentown City Planning Commission
BFE
Base flood elevation
Ft.
Feet
GFA
Gross floor area
In.
Inches
LVPC
Lehigh Valley Planning Commission
Max.
Maximum
MPC
Municipalities Planning Code[1]
MPD
Master plan development
Min.
Minimum
ROW or r.o.w.
Right-of-way
Sq. Ft. or s.f.
Square feet
ZHB
Zoning Hearing Board
[1]
Editor's Note: See 53 P.S. § 10101 et seq.
I. 
Versions and citations. All references in this chapter to other City, state or federal regulations are to be construed as referring to the most up-to-date version of those regulations or successor regulations, unless otherwise expressly indicated. When the referenced regulations have been repealed and not replaced by other successor regulations, this chapter's requirements for compliance are no longer in effect.
J. 
Public officials and agencies. References in this chapter to City officials, agencies, and staff are references to those of the City of Allentown.
A. 
Fractions and rounding generally. When calculations required under this chapter result in fractions, any fractional result of less than one-half of the unit of the regulation is rounded down to the whole number and any fractional result of one-half or more of the regulation unit is rounded up to the whole number. For example, if the maximum regulation is two feet, a measurement of 1.5 feet (or one foot, six inches) is rounded up to two feet and a measurement of 1.25 feet (or one foot, three inches) is rounded down to one foot. If the maximum regulation is in inches, fractions are rounded to the nearest inch.
B. 
Generally parallel and perpendicular. "Generally parallel," when stated related to lot lines or building facades, means less than 45° off the lot line or facade. "Generally perpendicular," when stated related to lot lines or building facades, means more than 45° off the lot line or facade in any direction.
C. 
Lot width. Lot width is the horizontal distance measured along the minimum front setback line between the side lot lines of a lot. If no minimum front setback is required, lot width is measured along the front lot line.
D. 
Lot area. Lot area is measured as the total ground-level surface area contained within the lot lines of a lot.
E. 
Lot frontage. The front lot line of the subject lot must be located along one of the street types designated. See § 660-18J.
F. 
Front streetwall.
(1) 
Definition of "streetwall." The minimum or maximum amount of building facade required along and generally parallel to a front street frontage and built within the build-to zone. See § 660-18J for determining front and side streets (if any) on the lot. Each building type regulates the streetwall as either a minimum percentage or a maximum building width as follows:
(a) 
Measurement: minimum percentage of streetwall. The percentage of front streetwall is calculated as the width of the principal structures, as measured within the front build-to zone, divided by the length of the lot line parallel to the front street, minus the minimum side setbacks or minimum side-street build-to zone setback. See Figure 660(34).
(b) 
Measurement: maximum streetwall. The maximum streetwall is the measurement along all front facades that are generally parallel and facing the lot line, measured from the edge of the facade horizontally to the opposite edge of the facade, intended to limit the width of the building facade along the street.
(2) 
Height. The streetwall or building facade being measured must meet the minimum height required for the building type. See § 660-131M(2).
(3) 
Courtyard and other allowances. Courtyards and other allowances may be listed in the building type regulations as exceptions or allowances.
(a) 
Minimum percentage of streetwall. The length of the courtyard opening or expanded build-to zone may be counted towards percentage of front streetwall where defined in the supplemental regulations for the building type.
(b) 
Maximum streetwall. In cases related to a maximum building width, the courtyard is allowed and does not contribute to the maximum width as written.
Figure 660(34) Measuring Front Streetwall
G. 
Setbacks and build-to zones. The following applies to required setbacks and build-to zones. See Article 4 for the building type regulations.
(1) 
Measurement: buildings. Required setbacks and build- to zones are measured from the applicable lot line or specific location referred to in the regulation, to the exterior building walls generally parallel to the subject line.
(a) 
Front and side-street build-to zones and setbacks. Street (front and side-street) setbacks build-to zones are measured from the lot line abutting the edge of the street right-of-way into the lot. Build-to zones include both a minimum setback and maximum setback that the facade of the building must be located within.
[1] 
C street frontages are typically not considered street frontages when they are located at the rear of the parcel, parallel to the front lot line. See § 660-18J. for explanation of frontages.
[2] 
See § 660-18L for regulations requiring a minimum streetscape area. Where the minimum area does not exist, the build-to zone is measured from the edge of the expanded streetscape area into the lot.
(b) 
Interior-side setbacks. Side or interior-side setbacks are measured from the nearest side lot line that does not abut a street.
(c) 
Rear setbacks. Rear setbacks are measured from the rear lot line.
(d) 
Corner lots. On corner lots, the required front or side-street setback must be provided for each street frontage, depending on whether the abutting street is a front or side street. The lot line opposite of the front street is the rear lot line, requiring a rear setback. The lot line generally perpendicular to the front street is the side lot line, requiring a side setback.
(e) 
Double-frontage lots. On double-frontage lots, the required front or side-street setback must be provided for each street frontage, depending on whether the abutting street is a front or side street. Generally applicable regulations apply per § 660-18J and supplemental building regulations for the building type may have additional requirements.
(2) 
Exceptions to build-to zones. Upper-story recessed balcony facades are not required to be located within the build-to zone.
(3) 
Allowed encroachments. Allowed encroachments into setbacks or beyond build-to zones are as follows, unless otherwise established in the building type regulations:
(a) 
Minor building projections in all yards for all building types. Roof overhangs, eaves, chimneys, bays, and other architectural features, such as cornices, may encroach up to 1.5 feet into any yard no closer than one foot from the lot line.
(b) 
Porches in front yards. Porches, stoops, decks, awnings encroaching into setbacks or beyond build-to zones into street yards are regulated in the building siting and supplemental regulations section for each building type. See Article 4.
(c) 
Steps and ramps in front yards. Steps and ramps in front yards may encroach fully into any street yard up to within one foot of any lot line.
(d) 
Porches, stoops, decks in rear and side yards. Open (unenclosed) or screened porches, stoops, awnings, decks, ramps, and steps may encroach into the side or rear yard up to within one foot of any lot line.
(4) 
Setbacks on irregular lots. Setbacks are measured from lot lines towards the center of the lot as follows:
(a) 
When lot lines are curvilinear, setbacks must be measured parallel to the curvilinear lot line.
(b) 
When there are multiple rear lot lines, the rear setback must be measured from each of the rear lot lines.
(5) 
Front-yard averaging. The average yard depth of buildings on adjacent lots is used to determine the applicable contextual setback for the subject lot, as follows:
(a) 
The build-to zone or averaged front yard depth is determined by calculating the mean yard depth that exists on the nearest two lots on either side of the subject lot.
(b) 
The required setback using the front-yard averaging shall not be greater or less than five feet of the average.
(c) 
If one or more of the lots required to be included in the front-yard averaging calculation are vacant, the vacant lot will be deemed to have a street yard depth equal to the minimum street setback requirement of the subject zoning district.
(d) 
Lots with frontage on a different street than the subject lot or that are separated from the subject lot by a street or improved alley are not used in computing the front-yard average.
(e) 
When the subject lot is a corner lot, the mean street yard depth will be computed on the basis of the nearest two lots with frontage on the same street as the subject lot, unless those two lots are in a different zone. If the two abutting lots are in a different zone, front-yard averaging does not apply and the setback or build-to zone required in the regulation applies.
(f) 
When the subject lot abuts a corner lot with frontage on the same street, the mean yard depth will be computed on the basis of the abutting corner lot and the nearest two lots with frontage on the same street as the subject lot.
(g) 
If the surrounding parcels are vacant, the required minimum setback or build-to line/zone in the ordinance applies.
(6) 
Waterway frontage. A river or trail frontage build-to-zone or setback is measured from any required waterfront buffer into the lot perpendicular to the easement or lot line. See § 350-14 for waterway buffer.
(7) 
Measurement: elements other than buildings. Minimum setbacks that apply to elements other than buildings (e.g., parking areas, fences, storage areas) are measured from the lot line, right-of-way line, or specific location referred to in the applicable regulations, to the nearest point of the feature.
Figure 660(35) Build-to Zones
H. 
Separation distance. Required minimum separation distances are measured in a straight line from lot line to lot line unless otherwise expressly stated.
I. 
Building coverage. Building coverage is measured as the percentage of a lot covered by all buildings.
(1) 
Green roofs. Green, or vegetated, roofs reduce the building's building coverage, by calculating the surface of the building's green roof at a factor of 0.75% or 75% of the area. For example, if the surface of the green roof measures 13,000 sq. ft., then 9,750 sq. ft. (75% of 13,000) contributes to the lot's maximum building coverage.
(2) 
Outdoor storage. Outdoor storage areas must be included in the building coverage calculation per § 660-51.
Figure 660(36) Building Coverage
J. 
Attached garage and door location.
(1) 
Garage setback measurement. Garage setbacks are defined in the building types (see Article 4) per one of the following:
(a) 
Dimensional setback. When the building type regulation includes a dimensional setback for an attached garage, the attached garage setback is measured from the front facade of the building, located generally parallel and facing the lot front line. The setback is intended to promote the use of the area directly behind the front facade of any building for people and not the parking of vehicles.
(b) 
No closer to lot line than front facade. When no dimensional setback for an attached garage is included in the building type regulation, the garage facade facing a front lot line must be located farther from the lot line than the front facade.
(2) 
Garage door location. Any garage door must be located on one of the designated facades of the building.
K. 
Limited side-yard parking. Where allowed, limited side-yard parking is located in the interior side yard and must be configured as one double- or single-loaded aisle of parking with the centerline of the aisle located perpendicular to the street. Limited side-yard parking may not extend into the front yard.
L. 
Number of dwelling units. The number of dwelling units allowed must be consistent with the subject building type standards.
(1) 
Number of dwelling units allowed per facade width. For certain building types, the requirement may be stated as X dwelling units allowed per every X feet of front facade width. The "every" means if increments of X feet are measured on the facade, and there is an increment left over that is less than X feet, that increment is not allowed to be utilized to determine the number of the dwelling units. For example, if the requirement is three units per every 18 feet of front facade width, a building with a front facade between 36 and 53 feet wide would allow up to six dwelling units. A building width of at least 54 feet wide would allow nine dwelling units.
(2) 
Less than the facade width increment. A building with less than the minimum facade width increment is allowed only a single unit. For example, if the requirement is three units per every 18 feet of front facade width and the facade width is less than 18 feet, only one unit is allowed.
(3) 
Maximum number of dwelling units. The maximum of number of dwelling units may not be exceeded, except as explicitly allowed per this chapter.
M. 
Building height. See Figure 660(37).
(1) 
Ground-story elevation. The ground-story elevation, located in the facade regulations for each building type, is measured from the average finished grade at the base of the building along any street lot line. A range is allowed per building type. See Figure 660(39) for basements and visible basements ranges above grade.
(2) 
Minimum height. Each building type requires a minimum number of stories. The building must meet the minimum required height along all front street facades for a depth of at least 30 feet into the building. All building facades located within the build-to zone must meet the required minimum building height.
(3) 
Maximum height. Maximum heights are specified in number of stories and/or feet. This requirement applies to the entire building. The maximum number of stories and/or feet may not be exceeded due to sloped sites. Heights must step with the grade in order to not exceed the maximum allowable height. See Figure 660(38).
(4) 
Towers. When expressly allowed in the building type tables, towers may exceed the overall maximum height of the subject building type (see § 660-62).
(5) 
Floor area ratio (FAR). FAR is the measurement of a building's floor area in relation to the size of the lot that the building is located on. FAR is measured by dividing the total gross building area (all stories) by the total area of the lot [building area (all stories) ÷ lot area].
(6) 
Height to eaves. Eave height is measured from the floor elevation of the first floor to the eave.
(7) 
Roof type. Roof types per § 660-61 allowed by building type regulations (see Article 4) add additional height to the building.
(8) 
Half stories. Half stories are stories either located fully within the roof type or in a visible basement.
(a) 
Roof. Where occupied building space is allowed within the roof type (see § 660-61), any space within the roof and within the floor to floor height counts as a half story towards the overall allowable height.
(b) 
Visible basement. See Figure 660(39) for diagram and explanation of a visible basement and § 660-133 for definitions of basements and visible basements.
(c) 
Two half stories. If a building has both a half story within the roof and a half story that is a visible basement, the combined height of the two half stories is considered one full story in terms of measuring overall height.
(9) 
Basements. See Figure 660(39) for illustration of basements and § 660-133 for definitions of basements and visible basements.
(a) 
A basement that is not a visible basement does not count towards the minimum or maximum height of a building.
(b) 
Any building may have a basement, unless expressly prohibited in this chapter.
(c) 
A basement may contain any use allowed within the building, including those allowed only in upper stories.
(10) 
Story height. Each story is measured with a range of permitted floor-to-floor heights per the subject building type. See Figure 660(37).
(a) 
Measurement. All story heights are measured in feet between the floor of a story to the floor of the story above it, not including stairwells and other vertical circulation.
(b) 
Ground story. When noted as a separate story height, the ground-story height must extend from the front street facade into the building a minimum of 30 feet. The remainder of the ground story may meet either the defined ground-story heights or the height range permitted for all stories.
(c) 
Single-story buildings and top-story measurement. For single-story buildings and the uppermost story of a multi-story building, the floor-to-floor height is measured from the floor of the story to the ceiling, unless a specific height is provided for a single-story building.
(d) 
Taller spaces. Where building heights are regulated in stories, taller spaces including mezzanines, atriums, and multi-story lobbies, are allowed within the interior of any building as follows:
[1] 
Front facade. Taller spaces may be located along up to 35% of the front facade, measured along the horizontal length of each story.
[2] 
Other facades. Taller spaces are allowed on all other facades.
[3] 
Measurement. Taller spaces are calculated as multiple stories where each story is equal to the story height used on the majority of stories of the building or the average of the allowed floor-to-floor height of the building type.
[4] 
Facade treatment. Taller spaces on any street facade must be articulated as multiple separate stories per the measurement required in this Subsection M(10)(d), building type requirements for horizontal shadow lines and transparency, and building articulation standards per § 660-65C.
(e) 
Height exceptions. The height limitations of this chapter do not apply to chimneys, ventilators, skylights, water tanks, and necessary mechanical appurtenances located on or extending above the roof. Such features shall not conflict with the special height limitations of Chapter 148 regarding airport approaches. Mechanical appurtenances on the roof are also regulated in § 660-66. See the tower regulations for accommodating other rooftop structures, such as elevator shafts and rooftop access.
(f) 
Commercial communications. The height of commercial communications towers and antennas are exempt from any building or roof type height regulations and are instead regulated in § 660-40B.
Figure 660(37) Measuring Building Height
Figure 660(38) Measuring Height along Sloped Street
Figure 660(39) Basements and Visible Basements
N. 
Transparency. Governed by the building type regulations, the transparency of a facade is measured for each story separately using two regulations: (1) an overall minimum transparency percentage per story, and (2) where applicable per building type, maximum blank wall segments [per § 660-131N(3), below]. See Article 4.
(1) 
Definition of "transparency." For the purposes of this chapter, transparency is the measurement of the percentage of a facade that contains highly transparent (generally clear with approximately 50% light transmittance), low-reflectance glass (a reflectance factor of no greater than 0.25, no mirrored glass).
(a) 
False windows. The use of false or faux windows, where the window is visible from the exterior with no opening from the interior, to meet the transparency requirement is not allowed.
(2) 
Measurement. Minimum facade transparency is measured from floor-to-floor of each story separately, except for required minimum ground-story transparency as defined below. See Article 4 for required transparency by building type.
(a) 
Transparency requirements must be met with windows or glass in doors that comply with applicable transmittance and reflectance factors.
(b) 
The measurement may include the frame, mullions, and muntins, but may not include trim or casing.
(3) 
Blank wall segments. Where applicable per the building type regulations (see Article 4), no horizontal segments of a story's facade greater than the dimension established in the building type regulations may be blank wall, without transparency. See Figure 660(42).
(4) 
Minimum ground-story transparency. When a separate minimum ground-story transparency is required per the building types requirements of Article 4, the ground-story transparency is measured between two feet and 10 feet from the average grade at the base of the facade.
(5) 
Taller spaces. Stories that are 18 feet or taller in height must include additional transparency on the facades consistent with the following standards. See Figure 660(41).
(a) 
Separate ground story transparency required. When a separate minimum ground story transparency is required per building type (see Article 4), the facade design must fulfil that requirement in addition to the minimum transparency for the remainder of the facade.
(b) 
No separate ground story transparency required. Where no separate ground story transparency is required per building type (see Article 4), the facade of taller spaces must be treated as multiple separate stories, divided between nine and 14 feet apart, with the minimum transparency applied to each horizontal division.
(6) 
Half stories. All half story facades located within the roof structure and within visible basements must meet the minimum required transparency.
Figure 660(40) Measuring Transparency Floor-to-Floor
Figure 660(41) Measuring Transparency at Taller Spaces
Figure 660(42) Blank Wall Segments (2)
O. 
Building entrances. Entrances must be provided consistent with the entrance location and number of entrances, if regulated, established for the subject building type and consistent with Figure 660(43).
(1) 
Number of entrances required per building increments. For longer buildings, the requirement is often stated as one entrance required per every X feet of front facade. The "every" means if increments of X feet are measured on the facade, and there is an increment left over that is less than X feet, that increment is not required to have an entrance. For example, if the requirement is one entrance per every 100 feet of facade, for a building that has a front facade 250 feet long, two entrances are required, but for a building 300 feet long, three entrances would be required.
(2) 
Location per building increments. Once the number of entrances is determined, the location of those entrances must occur within the increments in order to space out the entrances along the facade.
Figure 660(43) Entrances per Facade Increment
ABUT
To have a common boundary or being along contiguous lot lines that are not separated by a street or alley.
ACCESSORY BUILDING, STRUCTURE OR USE
See § 660-41.
ADAPTIVE REUSE
The conversion of 65% or more of the gross floor area of a principal building that was formerly occupied by nonresidential uses without any principal residential use into dwelling units. Projects that involve conversion of a principal building with a floor area of less than 5,000 square feet into dwelling units are not classified as adaptive reuse.
ADJACENT
To abut or be separated from another lot only by a street or improved alley.
AGENT
A person duly authorized to act on behalf of the owner of the subject property.
ALLEY
An improved public or private way having a right-of-way width of 24 feet or less. Where an "alley" is referred to within this chapter, it means a constructed and improved alley and does not include vacated, unimproved, or planned alleys, except where a development agreement is in place for planned alleys to be constructed.
APPLICANT
The owner of the subject property or an agent authorized by the subject property owner to submit an application under this chapter on the property owner's behalf.
APPURTENANCES, ROOFTOP
Any fixed, non-structural appurtenance located on and above the roof, including such items as skylights, antennae, roof vents, chimneys, flue pipes, and other mechanical, electrical, or communications equipment, unless otherwise stated.
ARTERIAL STREET
A public street categorized by the comprehensive plan or adopted transportation plan as an "arterial street."
AWNING
A roof-like structure typically made of cloth, metal or other material attached to a frame that extends from and is supported by a building. Awnings are typically erected over a window, doorway or building front and they may be raised or retracted to a position adjacent to the building.
BASEMENT
That portion of a building having three feet or more of its floor-to-ceiling height below the average finished grade of the abutting ground and with a floor-to-ceiling height of 7.5 feet or more. See Figure 660(39).
BASEMENT, VISIBLE
A basement having more than three feet of its floor-to-ceiling height above the average finished grade of the adjoining ground. See Figure 660(39).
BRING YOUR OWN BOTTLE (BYOB) ESTABLISHMENT
An eating or drinking place or community assembly use that is not licensed by the Pennsylvania Liquor Control Board, in which no intoxicating beverages are sold, but where patrons are permitted to bring intoxicating beverages upon the premises solely for their own use and consumption.
BUILD-TO ZONE
An area in which the street facade of a principal building must be placed, dictated by the minimum and the maximum distance the building must be placed from the front street or side street lot line. See § 660-131G.
BUILDING
Any permanent, roofed structure with or without enclosed sides and any unroofed platform, terrace, or porch having a vertical face higher than 30 inches above the level of the ground from which the height of the building is measured. All buildings are structures, but only those structures that meet this definition are considered buildings.
BUILDING, PRINCIPAL
A building in which the principal use of the subject lot is conducted.
BUS
A motor vehicle other than a taxicab or limousine, designed to transport 16 or more passengers, including the driver.
CALIPER
The diameter of a tree trunk measured per § 660-71C for new trees being installed or § 660-73 for existing trees.
CELLAR
See definition of "basement" in § 660-133.
CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY
A certificate issued by building code officials of the City upon completion of construction or alteration of a building or upon approval of a change in occupancy or use of a building.
CITY
The City of Allentown.
CITY COUNCIL
The City Council of the City of Allentown.
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE
A motor vehicle that is a Class 5 vehicle or above and is primarily used for business purposes, including making service calls, transporting equipment used in a business, or in accomplishing physical work as part of a business (such as hauling material). Does not include tractor trailers (see § 660-151).
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
The most recent version of the City's official comprehensive plan, as adopted by City Council.
CORNICE
A horizontal decorative moulding projecting from the top of a wall and, in the case of a flat roof type, located where the roof meets the wall.
CORRIDORS, MIXED-USE
See "mixed-use corridors."
COURTYARD
A courtyard is any open air, uncovered landscape, sidewalk, patio, terrace, or deck area, enclosed on at least two sides by a building or multiple buildings. Sides may be enclosed by buildings on abutting lots.
DECISION-MAKING BODY (OR AUTHORITY)
The individual or entity with authority and responsibility for making a final decision under the procedures of this chapter.
DEMOLITION
The dismantling, tearing down, removal or razing of the exterior of a building, in whole or in part. Changes to the interior of a building do not constitute demolition, provided such changes do not impair the structural stability of the building.
DEMOLITION, PARTIAL
The removal of one or more rooms of a building, removal of an attached porch (other than a ground level patio), turrets, dormers, and other similar structural elements, that are visible from a public street. Partial demolition is regulated in the same manner as demolition.
DORMER
A roofed structure containing a window that is set on and projects vertically from a pitched roof, typically used to create space and light within an area directly below a pitched roof.
DRIVE-THROUGH FACILITY
A structure or part of a structure that provides for some or all customers to receive services, obtain food or other goods, or be entertained while remaining in their motor vehicles.
DWELLING UNIT
One or more habitable rooms comprising complete independent living facilities for one or more persons, and including within those rooms permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation. A dwelling unit is intended for occupancy by a single household. A separate dwelling unit is deemed to exist when all three of the following characteristics exist, regardless of the representations of the property owner:
A. 
The habitable room(s) have independent access to the exterior (either directly, or through a common foyer or lobby);
B. 
The presence of a sanitation facilities in the form of a bathroom, including a sink and bathtub and/or shower (or plumbing rough-ins for a bathtub or shower); and
C. 
The presence of eating and cooking facilities in the form of a stove and sink (separate from the bathroom or laundry room sinks), or rough-ins for stoves and sinks (such as a gas line, or line for a stove or plumbing connection for separate sink).
DWELLING UNIT, ACCESSORY (ADU)
A separate dwelling unit within a building occupied by a principal dwelling unit or a separate dwelling unit within an accessory outbuilding located on a lot occupied by a principal dwelling unit. Accessory dwelling units are subject to the regulations of § 660-42.
EAVE(S)
The edge of the roof that overhangs the face of a wall and typically projects beyond the side of a building.
ELECTRIC VEHICLE
Any vehicle that is licensed and registered for operation on public and private highways, roads, and streets. Electric vehicles are powered partially or exclusively on electrical energy from the grid or an off-board source, that is stored on-board via a battery. Electric vehicles include: (1) battery electric vehicles; and (2) plug-in hybrid electric vehicles.
ELECTRIC VEHICLE (EV) CHARGING STATION
A public or private parking space that is served by battery charging station equipment.
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING LEVELS
The standardized indicators of electrical force, or voltage, at which an electric vehicle's battery is recharged. The terms 1, 2, and 3/DC are the most common charging levels, and include the following specifications:
A. 
Level 1 is considered slow charging with 120v outlets.
B. 
Level 2 is considered medium charging with 240v outlets, charging head and cord hard-wired to the circuit.
C. 
Level 3/DC is considered fast or rapid charging. Voltage is greater than 240.
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION, PRIVATE (RESTRICTED-ACCESS)
An EV charging station that is not available for use by the general public. Examples include electric vehicle charging stations that serve residential homeowners or renters, executive parking areas, designated employee parking areas, and fleet parking areas.
ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATION, PUBLIC
An EV charging station that is accessible to and available for use by the general public.
ELECTRIC VEHICLE PARKING SPACE
Any parking space that is clearly identified to be used exclusively for the parking of an electric vehicle.
ELECTRIC VEHICLE SUPPLY EQUIPMENT (EVSE)
The conductors, including the ungrounded, grounded, and equipment grounding conductors, and the electric vehicle connectors, attachment plugs, and all other fittings, devices, power outlets, or apparatus installed specifically for the purpose of transferring energy between the premises wiring and an electric vehicle.
EMPLOYEES
Full-time and part-time workers present on a lot at one time, other than clearly temporary persons working on physical improvements to the site. Volunteers and contractors are considered employees.
FACADE SEGMENT
A rectangular portion of a facade measured linearly along the bottom of a story for the width then to the top of the story's height vertically. Story height is measured top of floor to top of the next floor per § 660-131M.
FACADE, FRONT
A building facade generally parallel and facing the right-of-way line along a front street or other specifically designated frontages.
FACADE, REAR
Any facade of a building generally parallel to and facing the rear lot line.
FACADE, SIDE
Any facade of a building generally parallel to and facing a side or interior side lot line.
FACADE, SIDE-STREET
A building facade generally parallel to and facing the right-of-way line along a non-front or side street.
FACADE, STREET
Any facade of a building generally parallel to and facing any street right-of-way and including bays or minor walls perpendicular to the facade. The facade may be a front or side street facade, depending on whether it is facing a front or side street, respectively.
FACE OF CURB
The vertical or sloping surface on the roadway side of a street curb.
FAMILY
See definition of "household" in § 660-139.
FENCE
A constructed barrier of wood, masonry, stone, wire, metal or other manufactured material or combination of materials erected for the enclosure of areas.
FLOODPLAIN
The relatively flat or low land area that is subject to partial or complete inundation from an adjoining or nearby stream, river or watercourse; and/or any area subject to the unusual and rapid accumulation of surface waters from any source. See the definitions of terms in Chapter 298 entitled "Flood Control."
FLOOR AREA
The total horizontal areas of the floors of a building, measured inside exterior building walls or party walls separating buildings. Floor area does not include vehicle garages, loading space for motor vehicles, uninhabited basement storage areas, unenclosed porches, air shafts, common mechanical equipment rooms, cellars or any space where the ceiling height is less than 6.5 feet.
FLOOR AREA RATIO (FAR)
See § 660-131M(5).
FLOOR AREA, HABITABLE
The floor area of a dwelling unit or other rental unit that is enclosed, heated and usable for human occupancy. Common stairwells, common hallways and elevator shafts are not counted as habitable floor area.
FRONTAGE, FRONT
The portion of a lot or building abutting or directly adjacent to a front street right-of-way or other frontage defined as a "front."
FRONTAGE, SIDE-STREET
The portion of a lot or building abutting or directly adjacent to a side street right-of-way.
FRONTAGE, STREET
The portion of a lot or building abutting or directly adjacent to a street right-of-way.
GOVERNMENTAL
Owned or operated by City, county, state or federal governmental agencies or a City authority.
GRADE, AVERAGE FINISHED
The average of the elevations of the ground surface of a site after completion of all site preparation work for new construction or the existing grade for existing buildings. Where the adjoining or abutting grade is referenced, the measurement is taken along the line between the structure and the grade.
GRADE, FINISHED
The elevations of the ground surface of a site after completion of all site preparation work for new construction or the existing, undisturbed grade for existing buildings.
GRADE, NATURAL OR EXISTING
The elevations of the ground surface of a site in its natural state, before human-made alterations, excavations, or filling, and measured as the degree of rise or descent of a sloping surface.
GREEN ROOF
The roof of a building that is partially or completely covered with vegetation and a growing medium, planted over a waterproofing membrane. It may also include additional layers such as a root barrier and drainage and irrigation systems.
GREEN WALL
A wall partially or completely covered with vegetation that includes a growing medium, such as soil or a substrate. Most green walls also feature an integrated water delivery system. Green walls are also known as "living walls" or "vertical gardens."
GROUND LEVEL
The mean elevation over the entire length of the street lot line of a lot.
HARDSCAPE
Non-living materials, and their use and design, that constitute one component of landscaping. Hardscape includes paving, walls or fences, concrete, asphalt, stone, or other hard surface that may be used to construct retaining walls, paths, walkways, decks, terraces, accent features, and enclosures.
HIGH-CAPACITY TRANSIT ROUTE
A street segment with LANTA bus service frequencies of 15 minutes or lower. Such routes are identified on a GIS layer maintained by the City.
HOME OCCUPATION
An accessory use of a dwelling unit for business, commercial, or work-related purposes. Home occupations are subject to the regulations of § 660-48.
HOUSEHOLD
Any one of the following:
A. 
A single person occupying a dwelling unit;
B. 
Any number of persons related to each other by blood, marriage, civil union, committed partnership, adoption, or documented responsibility (such as foster care or guardianship), all of whom occupy a dwelling unit as a single housekeeping unit; or
C. 
Up to four adults of any relationship, plus any minor children related to one or more of the adults by blood, adoption or documented responsibility, all of whom occupy a dwelling unit as a single housekeeping unit without any additional boarders.
HOUSEKEEPING UNIT
A household comprised of persons who live together as a traditional family or as the functional equivalent of a family, and who share household activities and responsibilities, such as meals, chores, rent, and expenses. The choice of specific adults comprising the single nonprofit housekeeping unit is determined by the members of such housekeeping unit rather than by a landlord, property manager, or other third party. Members of a single housekeeping unit are not required to seek services or care of any type as a condition of residency. All members of the housekeeping unit jointly occupy the entire dwelling unit.
LANDSCAPE (OR LANDSCAPED) AREA
The area on a site that is landscaped with the installation and maintenance typically of a combination of trees, shrubs, and groundcover plants to improve the site's aesthetic quality. Does not include bare soil, uncultivated vegetation, impervious surfaces, and gravel.
LAWFULLY ESTABLISHED
A use, structure, lot or sign (as the context indicates) that was established in conformance with all applicable Zoning Ordinance regulations in effect at the time of its establishment.
LIGHT TRESPASS
Light that is emitted into an unintended area.
LIVE-WORK UNIT or LIVE-WORK SPACE
A dwelling unit or other space within a building that is used jointly for residential and nonresidential purposes that typically exceed those of a home occupation use pursuant to the regulations of this chapter.
LOT
A designated parcel, tract or area of land established by plot, subdivision, or as otherwise permitted by law, to be used, developed, or built upon as a unit.
LOT AREA
See § 660-131D.
LOT FRONTAGE
A property line that is co-existent with a street right-of-way line. In the case of a street of undefined width, the property line is assumed to parallel the centerline of the street at a distance 25 feet from the street's centerline.
LOT LINE
A line forming the front, rear or side boundaries of a lot or parcel of property as described in the recorded deed.
LOT WIDTH
See § 660-131C.
LOT, CORNER
A parcel of land at the junction of and fronting on two or more intersecting streets.
LOT, THROUGH OR DOUBLE FRONTAGE
A lot having its front and rear yards each abutting on a street as defined herein.
MANUFACTURING
The treatment or processing of raw products, and the production of articles or finished products from raw or prepared materials by giving them new forms or qualities.
MIXED-USE CORRIDORS
Mixed-use corridors are a set of street corridors specifically designated due to their proximity to transit, a mix of uses, and the carrying capacity of the corridor. Mixed-use corridors are maintained as a layer on the City's geographic information system (GIS), under the direction of the IT Director, and are available on the Zoning Map.
MULTI-TENANT DEVELOPMENT
A development typically under unified ownership and control consisting of two or more business establishments, which may be on the same lot or on separate lots. The tenants of a multi-tenant development typically share vehicle access and parking facilities.
MUNICIPALITIES PLANNING CODE
The Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code, as amended.[1]
[1]
Editor's Note: See 53 P.S. § 10101 et seq.
OCCUPIED BUILDING SPACE
Interior building space occupiable by people on a regular basis, not including storage, mechanical, utility, or garage space.
OPEN LANDS
Land that is permanently restricted to primarily be used for natural feature conservation or active or passive recreation. Such land shall be permanently restricted by a conservation easement or deed restriction to prevent further subdivision and to prevent development of uses or buildings, except for types of non-commercial recreation uses, stormwater management uses and utility purposes that are specifically authorized by the City of Allentown. This land shall include a suitable method for ownership and maintenance of the land that is approved by the City of Allentown. Such land shall be open for responsible recreational use by occupants of the development, and portions of the land may be opened to responsible use by the general public.
ORDINARY HIGH WATER MARK
The line on a shoreline established by the fluctuations of water and indicated by physical characteristics such as clear, natural line impressed on the bank, shelving, changes in the character of soil, destruction of terrestrial vegetation, the presence of litter and debris, or other appropriate means that consider the characteristics of the surrounding areas. Per 33 CFR 328.3(e) federal regulations.
OUTDOOR DISPLAY
The outdoor exhibition of products, vehicles, equipment and machinery for sale or lease during business hours only. Outdoor display does not include goods that are being stored or parked outdoors, outside of business hours (see also "outdoor storage").
OUTDOOR STORAGE
The storage of goods, products, materials, vehicles not in service, equipment and similar items in an unenclosed area for preservation, later use, or disposal. For purposes of this chapter, this definition does not include the storage of trucks and/or tractor trailers unless as accessory to another permitted principal use.
PARKING LOT (OR AREA)
An off-street area containing accessory or non-accessory motor vehicle parking spaces and associated motor vehicle maneuvering and circulation areas.
PARKING SPACE
A designated indoor or outdoor space meeting City requirements that is intended to accommodate a single parked motor vehicle. Also known as a "parking stall."
PARTY WALL
A vertical wall built between and to support contiguous buildings.
PAVEMENT
Asphalt, brick, block, concrete, pervious concrete, pervious asphalt, or porous permeable pavers.
PIGEON COOP
A cage or small enclosure for the purpose of housing pigeons.
PLAN, CERTIFIED
A plan prepared by a state-licensed and registered professional engineer, architect, landscape architect or surveyor. All certifications must meet applicable state laws.
PLANNING COMMISSION
The Allentown City Planning Commission (ACPC).
PORCH
A platform covered by a roof at the entrance to a house or rowhouse building.
PORCH, ENCLOSED
Any porch other than an open porch.
PORCH, OPEN
A porch that is open on three sides and that has no enclosed features of glass, wood or other material more than 30 inches above the floor of the porch, except for transparent mesh screening and necessary roof supports. A porch is not considered open if enclosed by either permanent or detachable glass sash.
PRELIMINARY OPINION
A written review and opinion given by a Zoning Officer as provided in § 660-114E.
PRINCIPAL STRUCTURE
A structure or combination of structures of chief importance or function on a site. In general, the primary use of the site is carried out in a principal structure.
PRINCIPAL USE
An activity or combination of activities of chief importance on the site. One of the main purposes for which the land or structures are intended, designed, or ordinarily used.
PROPERTY LINE
Same as "lot line."
SALE
Purchase or rental of goods, or provision of services, in return for monetary compensation.
SETBACK
An open, unobstructed area that is required to be provided by this chapter between a building and a lot line.
SHADOW LINE
An architectural feature consisting of a typically decorative, three-dimensional, linear element, horizontal or vertical, protruding or indented at least 1.5 inches in depth from the exterior facade of a building, and creating a shadow on the facade with light overhead, and extending, with limited interruption, the length or height of the designated story. Examples may include cast stone cornices or lintels, pilasters, or stepped brick coursing.
SIGN
See § 660-94F for sign-related definitions.
SITE AREA
The gross area of the lot, portions of a lot, or series of lots referenced.
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM
A system intended to convert solar energy into thermal, mechanical, or electrical energy.
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM, BUILDING-INTEGRATED
A solar energy system that is an integral part of a principal or accessory building, rather than a separate mechanical device, replacing or substituting for an architectural or structural part of the building. Building-integrated systems include, but are not limited to, photovoltaic or hot water systems that are contained within roofing materials, windows, skylights, shading devices, and similar architectural components.
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM, FLUSH-MOUNTED
A solar energy system that is mounted flush with a finished building surface, at no more than six inches in height above that surface.
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM, GROUND-MOUNTED
A solar energy system mounted on the ground and not attached to any other structure other than structural supports.
SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM, STRUCTURE-MOUNTED
A solar energy system that is mounted on the facade or roof of either a principal or accessory structure.
SOLAR PANEL
A group of photovoltaic cells assembled on a panel. Panels are assembled on-site into solar arrays.
SPECIFIED ANATOMICAL AREAS
Less than completely and opaquely covered human genitals, pubic region, buttock or female breast below a point immediately above the top of the areola.
SPECIFIED SEXUAL ACTIVITIES
A. 
Human genitals in a state of sexual stimulation or arousal;
B. 
Acts of human masturbation, sexual intercourse or sodomy; or
C. 
Fondling or other erotic touching of human genitals, pubic region or female breast.
STATE
The Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, and its governmental agencies.
STOREFRONT PLATFORM
A secondary walkway elevated on a platform above and generally parallel to the public sidewalk. The platform extends parallel to the building facade providing access into the building and viewing into storefront windows.
STORY
That part of a structure included between any floor and the floor or roof next above. Basements are not a story unless the basement qualifies as a visible basement. Visible basements are half stories, unless otherwise specified. See building height measurement in § 660-131M.
STORY, GROUND
The story closest to the ground level that does not meet the definition of a basement. Also called "ground floor."
STORY, HALF
See building height measurement in § 660-131M.
STREET
A thoroughfare publicly or privately owned, open to general public use.
STREET LINE
The right-of-way or established property line of a street as indicated by dedication or by deed of record.
STREET, FRONT
A street that is generally parallel to the front lot line. Front streets are determined by the A, B, or C street designations per § 660-18J.
STREET, SIDE
A street that abuts a lot and is not a front street. Front streets are determined by the A, B, or C street designations per § 660-18J.
STREETSCAPE
The overall appearance of a block along a public street, including yards visible from a public street, the relationship of building setbacks and bulk, the consistency of architectural styles or features, the spacing and shapes of windows and doors and rooflines and similar features that give the block its distinctive visual character. See also the regulations of § 350-13 in Chapter 350, Land Development and Subdivision.
STREETSCAPE AREA
The area behind the face of curb designed for pedestrian travel, including the sidewalk and buffer zone between the sidewalk and street for street planting and/or street furnishings.
STREETWALL
The portion of the building facade that is located generally parallel and facing the street right-of-way line.
STRUCTURE
Anything constructed or erected, which requires its permanent location on or below the ground, or that is permanently attached to something having permanent location upon the ground. Fixed or movable awnings are not by themselves considered a structure for the purposes of this chapter.
TOTAL AREA OF THE TRACT
The total lot area of a single lot or contiguous lots in common ownership or common equitable ownership at the time of submittal for subdivision, land development or planned residential development approval. The total area of the tract shall not include areas within the existing rights-of-way of existing streets, but may include portions of the lot proposed for new streets or proposed for new common open space.
TRACT
A single lot or contiguous lots in common ownership or common equitable ownership at the time of submittal for subdivision, land development or planned residential development approval. Such lots may be separated by a creek, railroad or street.
TRACTOR
A motor vehicle designed and used primarily for drawing other vehicles and not constructed so as to carry a load other than a part of the weight of the vehicles and load so drawn.
TRACTOR TRAILER
Every vehicle, wagon or truck without motive power designed to carry property or passengers wholly on its own structure and to be drawn by a tractor as defined by this chapter.
TRUCKING TERMINAL
An area or building where trucks load and unload materials on a regular basis, or where tractor trailers are transferred from one tractor cab to another for the purpose of continuation to another destination, or where trucks or tractors or tractor trailers are stored, parked or waiting for dispatch.
USE
The specific purpose or activity for which a structure, building, or land is or may be designed, arranged, designated, or intended or for which a structure, building, or land is or may be occupied and maintained.
USE CATEGORY
A class of similar uses grouped together for purposes of delineating the uses permitted in a zone. See also Article 5.
WATERFRONT
Water frontage along a waterway.
WATERWAY, MAJOR
Major waterways include the Lehigh River, Lehigh Coal and Navigation Canal (D+L), Jordan Creek, Cedar Creek, Trout Creek, Little Lehigh Creek, Little Cedar Creek, Lake Muhlenberg, and Joseph S.Daddona Lake.
WATERWAY, MINOR
Waterways, whether navigable or not, including creeks, brooks, ponds, lagoons, rivers, lakes, and other unnamed, minor waterways, not including those waterways designated as major waterways.
WHOLESALE SALES
An establishment or place of business primarily engaged in selling merchandise to retailers and industrial, commercial, institutional or professional business users, or to other wholesalers or acting as agents or brokers and buying merchandise for, or selling merchandise to, such individuals or companies.
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM
A device that directly converts wind energy into usable thermal, mechanical, or electrical energy, including such devices as windmills and wind turbines. The "system" includes towers and supporting structures and directly connected facilities such as generators, alternators, inverters, batteries, and associated control equipment.
WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM, SMALL
A wind energy conversion system with a power-rated capacity of no more than 100 kW that is primarily intended to produce power for on-site consumption, as a supplement to utility power or in lieu of utility power.
YARD
An actual (as opposed to "required") open, unoccupied space that exists on a lot between a building and a lot line.
YARD SALE
All general sales, open to the public, conducted from a residential property in any zoning district, for the purpose of disposing of household items including, but not limited to, all sales entitled "garage," "lawn," "yard," "attic," "porch," "room," "basement," "auction," "backyard," "patio," "flea market," "rummage" or "moving" sale.
YARD, FRONT
A street yard extending along the full width of the lot and lying between the principal building and a front street right-of-way.
YARD, INTERIOR
On lots with multiple buildings, a yard between any buildings that does not abut any lot line.
YARD, REAR
A yard extending between the side-street yard and the interior side lot line and lying between the rear of the principal building and the rear lot line.
YARD, SIDE
A yard extending from the front yard to the rear yard and lying between the side of the principal building and the side lot line.
YARD, SIDE-STREET
A street yard extending between the principal building and a side street right-of-way and lying between the front yard and the rear lot line.
YARD, STREET
Any yard between the principal building and a street right-of-way.