Definition of terms. Unless otherwise expressly stated,
the following terms shall, for the purpose of this chapter, have the
meanings indicated:
ACCELERATED EROSION
The removal of the surface of the land through the combined
action of human activities and the natural processes, at a rate greater
than would occur because of the natural process alone.
ACCEPTED ENGINEERING PRACTICE
That which conforms to accepted principles, tests or standards
of nationally recognized technical or scientific authorities.
ACCESSORY BUILDING
A building subordinate to the principal building on a lot
and used for purposes customarily incidental to those of the principal
building.
AGRICULTURAL ACTIVITIES
The work of producing crops and raising livestock including
tillage, plowing, disking, harrowing, pasturing and installation of
conservation measures. Construction of new buildings or impervious
area is not considered an agricultural activity
ALLEY
A right-of-way on which no structures front, serving as the
secondary means of access to two or more properties.
ALTERATION
As applied to a building, any change or rearrangement in
the structural parts or in the exit facilities; or any enlargement,
whether by extension on any side or by any increase in height; or
the moving from one location or position to another. As applied to
land, a change in topography as a result of the moving of soil and
rock from one location or position to another; also the changing of
surface conditions by causing the surface to be more or less impervious;
land disturbance.
ANCHORING
The fastening of the mobile home to its mobile home stand
in order to prevent upset or damage due to wind, erosion, flooding
or other natural forces.
APPLICANT
A person as landowner, equitable landowner, or developer,
as hereinafter defined, who has filed an application for approval
of a subdivision, development plan, regulated earth disturbance activity,
or other regulated activity defined herein, including his heirs, successors
and assigns under this chapter.
AS-BUILT DRAWINGS
Engineering or surveyed site drawings maintained by the project
contractors and layout surveyor during construction of the project
and upon which documentation of the actual constructed locations of
the buildings, site improvements and changes to the original approved
final plans are noted. A licensed professional engineer or land surveyor
shall review contractor's and layout surveyor's records for completeness
which are to be added to polyester film copies for filing with the
Township.
BANKFULL
The channel top-of-bank, or point from where water begins
to overflow onto a floodplain.
BASEFLOW
Portion of stream discharge derived from groundwater; the
sustained discharge that does not result from direct runoff or from
water diversions, reservoir releases, piped discharges, or other human
activities.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICE (BMP)
Activities, facilities, designs, measures or procedures used
to manage stormwater impacts from regulated earth disturbance activities,
to meet state water quality requirements, to promote groundwater recharge
and to otherwise meet the purposes of this chapter. Nonstructural
BMPs or measures refer to operational and/or behavior-related practices
that attempt to minimize the contact of pollutants with stormwater
runoff whereas structural BMPs or measures are those that consist
of a physical device or practice that is installed to capture and
treat stormwater runoff. Structural BMPs include, but are not limited
to, a wide variety of practices and devices, from large-scale retention
ponds and constructed wetlands, to small-scale underground treatment
systems, infiltration facilities, filter strips, low-impact design,
bioretention, wet ponds, permeable paving, grassed swales, riparian
or forested buffers, sand filters, detention basins, and manufactured
devices. Structural stormwater BMPs are permanent appurtenances to
the project site.
BIORETENTION
A stormwater retention area that utilizes woody and herbaceous
plants and soils to remove pollutants before infiltration occurs.
BLOCK
An area bounded by streets.
BOARD
The Board of Supervisors of Franconia Township, Montgomery
County, Pennsylvania.
BUFFER
An area designed and functioning to separate the elements
and uses of land which abut it and to ease the transition between
them. Unless otherwise specified, buffers may be included as part
of the required setbacks and yard areas. Buffers are divided into
three types:
(1)
OPEN BUFFERA buffer normally comprised of grass, ground cover and/or possibly other landscaping material having a specified depth, but not necessarily having significant vertical components to achieve a certain height or density, the purpose of which is to achieve adequate spacing and attractive landscaping between two or more actively used areas.
(2)
SCREEN BUFFERA buffer comprised of natural and/or man-made material arranged in a certain specified depth, height and density to effectively block the view from one side to another during all seasons of the year and to reduce the transmittal of noise and odors between the sides.
(3)
SOFTENING BUFFERA buffer comprised of natural and/or man-made material arranged in a certain specified depth, height and density to ease and soften.
BUFFER (RIPARIAN)
The area of land immediately adjacent to any stream, measured
perpendicular to and horizontally from the top-of-bank on both sides
of a stream. (See "top-of-bank.")
BUILDER
A person who is charged with the responsibility of construction
of buildings or other structures, or of making any construction improvements
on any parcel of land. A builder is not necessarily the owner.
BUILDING
A combination of materials to form a permanent structure
having walls or supports and a roof. Included shall be all mobile
homes and trailers used for human habitation.
BUILDING COVERAGE
The maximum horizontal area covered by buildings at or above
grade.
BUILDING ENVELOPE
The building envelope shall exclude the area of any required
setbacks, buffer yards and natural resource protected land specified
in this chapter. The purpose of identifying a building envelope is
to provide sufficient area for the general location of the building,
driveway, patio, other improvements and site alterations while meeting
natural resources protection standards and minimum setback requirements
of this chapter.
[Added 11-19-2018 by Ord.
No. 400]
BUILDING SETBACK LINE
The line which establishes the minimum depth of front yard for a particular district, set forth in Chapter
145, Zoning, as measured from the ultimate right-of-way line.
CALIPER
Diameter of a tree's trunk measured 12 inches above the ground.
CARTWAY
The portion of a street or alley intended for vehicular use;
the traveled part of the street, not including shoulders.
CENTRALIZED WATER SYSTEM
Water supply system(s), either publicly or privately owned,
that serve the public, meaning service is not restricted by type of
user or land use.
CHANNEL
An open drainage feature through which stormwater flows.
Channels include, but shall not be limited to, natural and man-made
drainageways, swales, streams, ditches, canals, and pipes flowing
partly full.
CHANNEL EROSION
The widening, deepening, or headward cutting of channels
and waterways caused by stormwater runoff or bankfull flows.
CISTERN
An underground reservoir or tank for storing rainwater.
CODE OF REGULATIONS
Such governing regulations as are adopted pursuant to this
chapter for the regulation and management of condominium properties,
including amendments thereof as may be adopted from time to time.
COMMON ELEMENTS
Includes (in reference to Article
V):
(1)
The land on which the building is located and portions of the
building which are not included in a unit.
(2)
The foundations, structural parts, supports, main walls, roofs,
basements, halls, corridors, lobbies, stairways and entrances and
exits of the building.
(3)
The yards, parking areas and driveways.
(4)
Portions of the land and buildings used exclusively for the
management, operation or maintenance of the common elements.
(5)
Installation of all central services and utilities.
(6)
All apparatus and installations existing for common use.
(7)
All other elements of the building necessary or convenient to
its existence, management, operation, maintenance and safety or normally
in common use.
(8)
Such facilities as are designated in the declaration as "common
elements."
COMMON OPEN SPACE
A parcel or parcels of land or a combination of land and
water within a development site designed and intended for the use
or enjoyment of residents of a development, not including streets,
off-street parking areas and areas set aside for public facilities.
The common open space shall essentially be free of buildings.
COMMON PARKING
Any parking area used by three or more dwelling units and
having space for six or more motor vehicles.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN
The Franconia Township Comprehensive Plan, consisting of
maps, charts and textual matter, as well as any revisions thereto.
CONDOMINIUM
An estate in real property consisting of an individual interest
in a space within a structure and/or a portion of property, together
with an undivided interest in common elements.
CORNER CLEARANCE
The distance, at an intersection of two highways, between
the near edge of the access driveway approach and the point of intersection
of the pavement edges or the curbline extended.
COUNCIL
A homeowners' association or other entity who shall manage
the business, operation and affairs of a condominium property on behalf
of the unit owners. (Size is to be stated in the code of regulations
for the property.)
CROSSWALK
A right-of-way for pedestrian use across a block, connecting
two of the bounding streets.
CUL-DE-SAC
A street with access at one end and terminated at the other
by a paved vehicular turnaround.
CULVERT
A structure with its appurtenant works, which carries water
under or through an embankment or fill.
CURVE NUMBER
A modeling value used in the Hydrological Soil Cover Complex
Method. It is a measure of the percentage of precipitation which is
expected to run off from the watershed and is a function of the soil,
vegetative cover, and tillage method as defined by the NCRS.
CUT
An excavation; the difference between a point on the original
ground and a designated point of lower elevation on the final grade;
also, the material removed in an excavation.
DAM
A man-made barrier, together with its appurtenant works,
constructed for the purpose of impounding or storing water or another
fluid or semi-fluid. A dam may include a refuse bank, fill or structure
for highway, railroad or other purposes which impounds or may impound
water or another fluid or semi-fluid.
DECLARATION
The instrument by which the owner of property submits the
property to the provisions of 68 Pa.C.S.A. § 3101 et seq.,
the Pennsylvania Uniform Condominium Act, and all amendments thereto.
DECLARATION OF REVOCATION
A statement of intent to convert a condominium to a fee simple
or rental property or structure, signed by 100% of the unit owners
and the holders of all mortgages, judgments or other liens affecting
the units.
DECLARATION PLAN
A survey of the property to be submitted to the provisions
of 68 Pa.C.S.A. § 3101 et seq., the Pennsylvania Uniform
Condominium Act, which shall bear the verified statement of a licensed
land surveyor certifying that the declaration plan fully and accurately:
(1)
Shows the property, the location of the building(s) thereon,
the building and the layout of the floors of the building(s); including
the units and the common elements; and
(2)
Sets forth the name by which the property will be known and
the unit designation for each unit therein.
DENSITY
The number of dwelling units per developable acre.
DEP
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
DESIGN PROFESSIONAL (QUALIFIED)
A Pennsylvania registered professional engineer, registered
landscape architect or registered professional land surveyor with
competency to develop stormwater and watershed management plans and
proficient in such design.
DESIGN STORM
The magnitude and temporal distribution of precipitation
from a storm event measured in probability of occurrence (e.g., a
five-year storm) and duration (e.g., 24 hours), used in the design
and evaluation of stormwater and watershed management systems.
DETENTION BASIN
An impoundment designed to collect and retard stormwater
runoff by temporarily storing the runoff and releasing it at a predetermined
rate. Detention basins are designed to drain completely soon after
a rainfall event and become dry until the next rainfall event.
DETENTION DISTRICT
Those subareas of a watershed in which some type of detention
is required to meet the Plan requirements and the goals of an Act
167 Plan.
DETENTION VOLUME
The volume of runoff that is captured and released into the
waters of the commonwealth at a controlled rate.
DEVELOPABLE ACREAGE
All that land within the lot lines of a tract excluding the
following:
[Amended 11-19-2018 by Ord. No. 400; 1-20-2020 by Ord. No. 409]
(1)
Lands located within any public or private right-of-way or the
ultimate right-of-way of an existing street as required by this chapter.
(2)
Lands subject to existing easements or rights-of-way.
(3)
Lands subject to open space requirements and/or natural resources
to be protected, whichever is greater. The natural resources may be
counted towards required open space up to a maximum of 50% of the
open space area.
(4)
Existing permanent drainage easements containing an open channel.
DEVELOPER
Any landowner, equitable owner, agent of such landowner or
tenant with the permission of such landowner, who makes or causes
to be made a subdivision of land, land development or to undertake
any regulated earth disturbance activities at a project site in the
Township as defined herein.
DEVELOPMENT
See "developer," "development plan," "earth disturbance activity."
The term includes redevelopment.
DEVELOPMENT PLAN
The provisions for guiding land alterations and development,
including a plan of subdivision, all covenants relating to use, location
and bulk of buildings and other structures, intensity of the use or
density of development, streets, parking facilities, ways, common
open space and public facilities. The phrase "provisions of the development
plan" shall mean the written and graphic materials referred to in
this definition.
DEVELOPMENT SITE
The specific tract of land where any land development, redevelopment
or earth disturbance activities in the Township are planned, conducted
or maintained.
DIFFUSED DRAINAGE DISCHARGE
Drainage discharge that is not confined to a single point
location or channel, including sheet flow or shallow concentrated
flow.
DISCHARGE
1. (verb) To release water from a project, site, aquifer,
drainage basin or other point of interest; 2. (noun) The rate and
volume of flow of water such as in a stream, generally expressed in
cubic feet per second. See also "peak discharge."
DISCONNECTED IMPERVIOUS AREA (DIA)
An impervious or impermeable surface that is disconnected
from any stormwater drainage or conveyance system and is redirected
or directed to a pervious area, which allows for infiltration, filtration,
and increased time of concentration as specified in Appendix F, Disconnected
Impervious Area.
DISTURBED AREAS
Nonstabilized land area where an earth disturbance activity
is occurring or has occurred.
DITCH
A man-made waterway constructed for irrigation or stormwater
conveyance purposes.
DOWNSTREAM PROPERTY LINE
That portion of the property line of the lot, tract, or parcels
of land being developed, located such that overland or pipe flow from
the project site would be directed towards it by gravity.
DCNR
The Pennsylvania Department of Natural Resources and Conservation.
DRAINAGE
The surface flow of storm water over the either on the surface
of the land or subsurface through permeable soils and geological formations.
DRAINAGE CONVEYANCE FACILITY
A stormwater and watershed management facility designed to
transport stormwater runoff that includes channels, swales, pipes,
conduits, culverts, and storm sewers.
DRAINAGE EASEMENT
A right granted by a landowner to a grantee, allowing the
use of private land for stormwater and watershed management purposes.
DRAINAGE PLAN
The graphic documentation and supporting technical reports
of the stormwater and watershed management system, to be used for
a given development site, the contents of which are established in
Section 302 and are subject to municipal review and issuance of a
drainage permit.
DRIVEWAY
A private way providing for vehicular and pedestrian access
between a public street and a parking area within a lot or property.
DWELLING
A building designed and constructed for residential purposes
in which people live.
DWELLING UNIT
One or more rooms arranged for the use of one or more individuals
living together as a single housekeeping unit, with cooking, living,
sanitary and sleeping facilities.
EARTH DISTURBANCE ACTIVITY
A construction or other human activity which disturbs the
surface of the land, including, but not limited to, clearing and grubbing,
grading, excavations, embankments, road maintenance, utility excavations,
building construction and the moving, depositing, stockpiling, or
storing of soil, rock or earth materials.
EASEMENT
The limited use of private land for right-of-way, sanitary
or storm facilities, streams, the preservation of natural features,
drainage ditches or for access to other parts of the property or open
space/recreational areas, where the owner or lessee of the property
shall not erect any structure, but shall have the right to make any
other use of the land which is not inconsistent with the purpose of
the easement.
EMERGENCY SPILLWAY
A conveyance area that is used to pass peak discharge greater
than the maximum design storm controlled by the stormwater facility.
ENCROACHMENT
A structure or activity that changes, expands or diminishes
the course, current or cross section of a watercourse, floodway or
body of water.
ENDORSEMENT
The review stamp of the Montgomery County Planning Commission.
ENGINEER
A professional engineer licensed as such in the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania.
EQUIVALENT RIGHT-OF-WAY
A theoretical right-of-way dimension calculated from the
center line of designated private roads, the width of which corresponds
to that of public roads performing the same function.
EROSION
The process by which the surface of the land, including channels,
is worn away by water, wind, or chemical action.
ESTABLISHED FLOOD LEVEL
A point on the boundary of the flood-prone (floodplain) area
which is closest to the development site.
EXCAVATION
Any act by which natural materials are dug into, cut, quarried,
uncovered, removed, displaced, relocated or bulldozed, as well as
the conditions resulting therefrom.
EXCEPTIONAL VALUE WATERS
Surface waters of high quality which satisfy Pennsylvania
Code Title 25, Environmental Protection, Chapter 93, Water Quality
Standards, § 93.4b(b) (relating to antidegradation).
EXISTING CONDITIONS
[Amended 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
(1)
The initial condition of a project site prior to the proposed
alteration. If the initial condition of the site is undeveloped land,
the land use shall be considered as "meadow" unless the natural land
cover is proven to generate lower curve numbers or Rational "C" value,
such as forested lands.
(2)
The dominant land cover during the five-year period immediately
preceding a proposed regulated activity.
EXISTING RECHARGE AREA
Undisturbed surface area or depression where stormwater collects
and a portion of which infiltrates and replenishes the groundwater.
FEMA
Federal Emergency Management Agency.
[Added 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
FILL
Any act by which natural materials are placed, pushed, dumped,
pulled, transported or moved to a new location above the natural surface
of the ground or on top of the stripped surface, as well as the conditions
resulting therefrom.
FLOOD
A temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of
land areas from the overflow of streams, rivers, and other waters
of this commonwealth.
FLOOD HAZARD BOUNDARY MAP
A map prepared by the Federal Insurance Administration of
the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development designating
the boundaries of areas having special flood hazards in Franconia
Township. This map should only be used to comply with the pertinent
requirements of the National Flood Insurance Program.
FLOODPLAIN
Any land area susceptible to inundation by water from any
natural source or delineated by applicable FEMA maps and studies as
being a special flood hazard area. Also includes areas that comprise
Group 13 Soils, as listed in Appendix A of the Pennsylvania DEP Technical
Manual for Sewage Enforcement Officers (as amended or replaced from
time to time by DEP).
[Amended 11-19-2018 by Ord. No. 400; 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
FLOODPLAIN SOILS (ALLUVIAL SOILS)
Areas subject to periodic flooding or listed on the Official
Soil Survey provided by the United States Department of Agriculture,
Natural Resources Conservation Service, Web Soil Survey (http://websoilsurvey.nrcs.usda.gov/),
as soils having a flood frequency other than none. A landowner may
submit detailed soil profiles and a report to the Township for the
purpose of determining an alluvial soil classification, which the
Township may or may not accept as the correct boundary of soils on
floodplain.
[Added 11-19-2018 by Ord.
No. 400]
FLOODPROOFING
Those measures intended to reduce the risk to persons and
property from construction activities in flood-prone areas as set
forth in floodproofing regulations published by the Office of the
Chief of Engineers, United States Army, publication number EP 1165
2 314 (June 1972 and as subsequently amended). In said publication
where reference is made to "below (or above) the RFD (regulatory flood
datum)," it shall be interpreted as meaning below (or above) the established
flood elevation. Said regulations are contained in the Building Code
of Franconia Township, as amended.
FLOODWAY
The channel of a watercourse and those portions of the adjoining
floodplains, which are reasonably required to carry and discharge
the one-hundred-year frequency flood. Unless otherwise specified,
the boundary of the floodway is as indicated on maps and flood insurance
studies provided by FEMA. In an area where no FEMA maps or studies
have defined the boundary of the one-hundred-year frequency floodway,
it is assumed, absent evidence to the contrary, that the floodway
extends from the stream to 50 feet from the top-of-bank.
FLUVIAL GEOMORPHOLOGY
The study of landforms associated with river channels and
the processes that form them.
FOREST MANAGEMENT/TIMBER OPERATIONS
Planning and associated activities necessary for the management
of forestland. These include timber inventory and preparation of forest
management plans, silviculture treatment, cutting budgets, logging
road design and construction, timber harvesting and reforestation.
FREEBOARD
A vertical distance between the elevation of the design high-water
and the top of a dam, levee, tank, basin, swale, or diversion berm.
The space is required as a safety margin in a pond or basin.
GOVERNING BODY
Elected municipal officials of municipalities (e.g., Township
supervisors or Township Council or borough council).
GRADE
1. (noun) A slope, usually of a road, channel or natural
ground, specified in percent and shown on plans as specified herein.
2. (verb) To finish the surface of a roadbed, the top of an embankment,
or the bottom of excavation.
GRASSED WATERWAY
A natural or man-made waterway, usually broad and shallow,
covered with erosion-resistant grasses, used to convey surface water.
GREEN INFRASTRUCTURE
Systems and practices that use or mimic natural processes
to infiltrate, evapotranspire, or reuse stormwater on the site where
it is generated.
[Added 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
GROSS FLOOR AREA
The total area included within the exterior walls of a building,
exclusive of open courts.
GROUND COVER
Natural mulch or nondeciduous or low-growing plants installed
or planted in such a manner as to provide a continuous cover over
the ground.
GROUNDWATER
Water beneath the earth's surface that supplies wells and
springs, and is often between saturated soil and rock.
GROUNDWATER RECHARGE
Replenishment of existing natural underground water supplies
from rain or overland flow.
HEIGHT
The height of a building shall be measured from the mean
level of the ground surrounding the building to a point midway between
the highest and the lowest points of the roof, provided that chimneys,
spires, towers, elevator penthouses, tanks and similar projections
shall not be included in calculating the height.
HIGH QUALITY WATERS
Surface waters having quality which exceeds levels necessary
to support propagation of fish, shellfish, and wildlife and recreation
in and on the water by satisfying Pennsylvania Code Title 25, Environmental
Protection, Chapter 93, Water Quality Standards, § 93.4b(a).
HITCH
A device which is part of the frame or attaches to the frame
of a mobile home and connects it to a power source for the purpose
of transporting the unit.
HOTSPOTS
An area where land use or activity generates highly contaminated runoff, with concentrations of pollutants in excess of those typically found in stormwater. Typical pollutant loadings in stormwater may be found in Chapter
8, Section 6, of the Pennsylvania Stormwater Best Management Practices Manual, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (PADEP), No. 363-0300-002 (2006).
HYDROGRAPH
A graph representing the discharge of water versus time for
a selected point in the drainage system.
HYDROLOGIC REGIME
The hydrologic cycle or balance that sustains quality and
quantity of stormwater, baseflow, storage, and groundwater supplies
under natural conditions.
HYDROLOGIC SOIL GROUP (HSG)
Infiltration rates of soils vary widely and are affected
by subsurface permeability as well as surface intake rates. Soils
are classified into four HSGs (A, B, C, and D) according to their
minimum infiltration rate, which is obtained for bare soil after prolonged
wetting. The NRCS defines the four groups and provides a list of most
of the soils in the United States and their group classification.
The soils in the area of the development site may be identified from
a soil survey report that can be obtained from local NRCS offices
or Conservation District offices. Soils become less pervious as the
HSG varies from A to D.
[Amended 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
IMPOUNDMENT
A retention or detention basin designed to retain stormwater
runoff and release it at a controlled rate.
IMPERVIOUS SURFACE
A surface that prevents the infiltration of water into the
ground. "Impervious surface" includes, but is not limited to, any
roof, parking or driveway areas, any new streets and sidewalks, decks,
patios, and pool surfaces (including water, decking, and equipment
pad) unless otherwise determined by the Township Engineer. Any surface
areas designed to initially be gravel or crushed stone shall be considered
impervious surfaces. In addition, other areas determined by the Township
Engineer to be impervious within the meaning of this definition shall
be classified as impervious surface. The runoff curve number for stormwater
management calculations, however, may be based on actual surfaces.
[Amended 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
IMPROVEMENT
Grading, paving, curbing, streetlights and signs, fire hydrants,
wells, water mains, sanitary sewers, storm drains, sidewalks, parking
areas or landscaping.
INFILL
Development that occurs on smaller parcels that remain undeveloped
but are within or very close proximity to urban or densely developed
areas. Infill development usually relies on existing infrastructure
and does not require an extension of water, sewer or other public
utilities.
INFILTRATION
Movement of surface water into the soil, where it is absorbed
by plant roots, evaporated into the atmosphere, or percolated downward
to recharge groundwater.
INFILTRATION STRUCTURES
A structure designed to direct runoff into the underground
water (e.g., French drains, seepage pits, or seepage trenches).
INLET
The upstream end of any structure through which water may
flow.
INTERMITTENT STREAM
A stream that flows only part of the time. Flow generally
occurs for several weeks or months in response to seasonal precipitation
or groundwater discharge.
INTERMEDIATE ISLAND
That section of the roadway right-of-way between the pavement
edge or curb and the property line, which occurs between driveways.
KARST
A type of topography or landscape characterized by surface
depressions, sinkholes, rock pinnacles/uneven bedrock surface, underground
drainage, and caves. Karst is formed on carbonate rocks, such as limestone
or dolomite.
LAND DEVELOPMENT
(1)
Any of the following activities:
(a)
The improvement of one lot or two or more contiguous lots, tracts
or parcels of land for any purpose involving:
[1]
A group of two or more residential or nonresidential buildings,
whether proposed initially or cumulatively, or a single nonresidential
building on a lot or lots, regardless of the number of occupants or
tenure; or
[2]
The division or allocation of land or space, whether initially
or cumulatively, between or among two or more existing or prospective
occupants by means of or for the purpose of streets, common areas,
leaseholds, condominiums, building groups or other features.
(2)
A land development shall not include the following:
(a)
The conversion of an existing single-family detached dwelling
or single-family semidetached dwelling into not more than three residential
units, unless such units are intended to be a condominium.
(b)
The addition of an accessory building, including farm buildings,
on a lot or lots subordinate to an existing principal building.
LANDOWNER
The legal or beneficial owner or owners of land, or a building
thereon, or a portion of either, including the holder of an option
or contract to purchase (whether or not such option or contract is
subject to any condition), a lessee if he is authorized under the
lease to exercise the rights of the landowner, or other person having
a proprietary interest in land.
LIMITING ZONE
A soil horizon or condition in the soil profile or underlying
strata that includes one of the following:
(1)
A seasonal high water table, whether perched or regional, determined
by direct observation of the water table or indicated by soil mottling.
(2)
A rock with open joints, fracture or solution channels, or masses
of loose rock fragments, including gravel, with insufficient fine
soil to fill the voids between the fragments.
(3)
A rock formation, other stratum or soil condition that is so
slowly permeable that it effectively limits downward passage of effluent.
LOT
A designated parcel, tract, or area of land established by
a plat or subdivision plan approved by Franconia Township and recorded
in the Montgomery County Recorder of Deeds Office.
[Amended 1-20-2020 by Ord. No. 409]
LOT AREA
The area contained within the property lines of the individual
lot(s), excluding any area within any public or private right-of-way
and required ultimate right-of-way of an existing or proposed street.
[Amended 1-20-2020 by Ord. No. 409]
LOW-IMPACT DEVELOPMENT (LID) PRACTICES
Site design approaches and small-scale stormwater management
practices that promote the use of natural systems for infiltration,
evapotranspiration, and reuse of rainwater. LID can be applied to
new development, urban retrofits, and revitalization projects. LID
utilizes design techniques that infiltrate, filter, evaporate, and
store runoff close to its source. Rather than rely on costly large-scale
conveyance and treatment systems, LID addresses stormwater through
a variety of small, cost-effective landscape features located on-site.
[Amended 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
MAIN STEM (MAIN CHANNEL)
Any stream segment or other runoff conveyance used as a reach
in the Neshaminy and Little Neshaminy Creeks hydrologic model.
MANNING EQUATION
A method for calculation of velocity of flow (e.g., feet
per second) and flow rate (e.g., cubic feet per second) in open channels
based upon channel shape, roughness, depth of flow and slope. "Open
channels" may include closed conduits so long as the flow is not under
pressure.
MINIMIZE
To reduce to the smallest amount possible. "Minimize" does
not mean to eliminate but rather that the most substantial efforts
possible under the circumstances have been taken to reduce the adverse
effect of the action (such as grading, clearing, construction, etc.).
MUNICIPALITY
Franconia Township, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
MOBILE HOME
A single-family detached dwelling intended for permanent
occupancy, which may not meet local building codes but does meet the
standards of the Pennsylvania Department of Community and Economic
Development and appropriate federal agencies and is certified by them,
contained in one unit or in two or more units designed to be joined
into one integral unit capable of again being separated for repeated
towing, which arrives at a site complete and ready for occupancy except
for minor and incidental unpacking and assembly operations, and constructed
so that it may be used with or without a permanent foundation, including
any roofed addition such as extra rooms, covered patios, porches,
etc.
MOBILE HOME DEVELOPMENT
A parcel of land under single ownership which has been planned
and improved in compliance with the requirements of the Mobile Home
Development District for the placement of mobile homes, conventionally
built or modular single-family detached homes, or combinations thereof,
for nontransient use, consisting of two or more mobile home lots and
15 acres or greater in size.
MOBILE HOME LOT
A parcel of land in a mobile home development, provided with
the necessary utility connections, patio and other appurtenances necessary
for the erection thereon of a single mobile home, and the exclusive
use of its occupants, though it may instead be designed, developed
and used for a modular or conventionally built single-family detached
home rather than a mobile home.
MOBILE HOME STAND
That part of an individual lot which has been reserved and
prepared for the placement of the mobile home.
MODULAR HOME
A single-family or multifamily dwelling intended for permanent
occupancy, made by assembling one or more factory-produced three-dimensional
sections into an integral living unit, whose construction materials
and specifications conform to those of conventionally built units.
MOTOR HOME
A travel trailer which combines the living section and the
power source into a single unit.
MUNICIPAL ENGINEER
A professional engineer licensed as such in the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania, duly appointed as the engineer for Franconia Township.
MUNICIPALITY
Franconia Township, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
NATURAL RECHARGE AREA
Undisturbed surface area or depression where stormwater collects,
and a portion of which infiltrates and replenishes the groundwater.
NON-POINT-SOURCE POLLUTION
Pollution that enters a water body from diffuse origins in
the watershed and does not result from discernible, confined, or discrete
conveyances.
NONSTORMWATER DISCHARGES
Water flowing in stormwater collection facilities, such as
pipes or swales, which is not the result of a rainfall event or snowmelt.
NONSTRUCTURAL BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICE (BMPs)
Methods of controlling stormwater runoff quantity and quality,
such as innovative site planning, impervious area and grading reduction,
protection of natural depression areas, temporary ponding on site
and other techniques.
NONSYSTEM WELLS
On-site well(s) for use by a landowner and not part of a
public water system.
NPDES
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System, the federal
government's system for issuance of permits under the Clean Water
Act, which is delegated to DEP in Pennsylvania.
NRCS
USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service [previously SCS
(Soil Conservation Service)].
[Amended 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
OFFICIAL MAP SUMMARY
The map of current adoption showing the rights-of-way and
approximate location of the lines of existing and proposed public
streets for the whole of Franconia Township.
OUTFALL
"Point source," as described in 40 CFR 122.2, and the point
where the Township's storm sewer system, or other storm sewer systems,
discharges to surface waters of the commonwealth.
PARENT TRACT
The parcel of land from which a land development or subdivision
originates, determined from the date of municipal adoption of this
chapter.
PARKING SPACE
A space, surfaced to whatever extent necessary to permit use under all normal seasonal weather conditions, available for the parking of one motor vehicle, with the dimensions required by §
122-19 of this chapter.
PAVEMENT EDGE
The edge of the main traveled portion of any street or highway,
exclusive of shoulder or berm.
PEAK DISCHARGE
The maximum rate of stormwater runoff from a specific storm
event.
PERENNIAL STREAM
A stream which contains water at all times except during
extreme drought.
PERVIOUS SURFACE
Any area not defined as impervious.
[Amended 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
PERSON
Any natural person, firm, partnership, copartnership, association
or corporation, public or private, or a governmental unit, public
utility or any other legal entity whatsoever which is recognized by
law as the subject of rights and duties.
PIPE
A culvert, closed conduit, or similar structure (including
appurtenances) that conveys stormwater, sanitary sewerage or other
liquid as part of a system.
PLAN
A graphic or written representation or document which, in
the case of condominiums, shall include a declaration, code of regulations
and declaration plan.
PLAN, IMPROVEMENT CONSTRUCTION
A plan showing the construction details of streets, drains, sewers, bridges, culverts and other improvements as required by this chapter, showing the details required by Article
II of this chapter.
PLAN, LAND DEVELOPMENT
A tentative sketch plan, preliminary, major or final plan,
including written and graphic material showing the provision for development
of a tract, when plans of subdivision would not be applicable.
PLAN, MINOR SUBDIVISION
The division of a single lot, tract or parcel of land, not
a part of a prior subdivision, into not more than two lots, parcel
or parcels of land for the purpose, whether immediate or future, of
lease, transfer of ownership or the act of building structures and
installing site improvements for residential use; such lots shall
front on an existing street, not involve any new street or road or
the extension of municipal facilities or the creation of any public
improvements; and shall conform to all provisions of the Township
Zoning Ordinance and this chapter and rules and regulations promulgated
thereunder.
PLAN, PRELIMINARY MAJOR
A plan prepared for discussion with the Township Planning Commission and Board of Supervisors showing the proposed street and lot layout, the deed restrictions, easements and all other items required under Article
II of this chapter for the entire parcel of land being subdivided.
PLAN, RECORD MAJOR
A plan prepared for recording showing the ultimate width of streets, the lot lines, easements and all other items required under Article
II of this chapter.
PLAN, TENTATIVE SKETCH
A draft showing proposed streets, lots or buildings related
to topography that is to be used as the basis for informal discussion
between the representatives of the Township Planning Commission and
the subdivider, developer or builder.
POINT SOURCE
Any discernible, confined and discrete conveyance, including,
but not limited to, any pipe, ditch, channel, tunnel, or conduit from
which stormwater is or may be discharged, as defined in state regulations
at 25 Pa. Code § 92.1.
POST CONSTRUCTION
Period after construction during which disturbed areas are
stabilized, stormwater controls are in place and functioning and all
proposed improvements in the approved land development plan are completed.
PREDEVELOPMENT
Undeveloped/natural condition or existing site conditions
of a property prior to the filing an application for land development
or regulated earthmoving.
PRETREATMENT
Techniques employed in stormwater BMPs to provide storage
or filtering to trap coarse materials and other pollutants before
they enter the system, but not necessarily designed to meet the water
quality volume requirements of Section 406.
PROJECT SITE
The specific area of land where any land development or regulated
earth disturbance activities in the Township are planned, conducted
or maintained.
PROPERTY LINE CLEARANCE
The distance measured along the pavement edge or curb between
the property frontage boundary line and the edge of the driveway.
PUBLIC HEARING
A formal meeting held pursuant to public notice by the Franconia
Township Board of Supervisors or Planning Commission, intended to
inform and obtain public comment, prior to taking action in accordance
with the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code.
PUBLIC MEETING
A forum held pursuant to notice under the Act of July 3,
1986 (P.L. 388, No. 84), known as the "Sunshine Act."
PUBLIC NOTICE
Notice published once each week for two successive weeks
in a newspaper of general circulation in Franconia Township. Such
notice shall state the time and place of the hearing and the particular
nature of the matter to be considered at the hearing. The first publication
shall be not less than 30 days and the second publication shall be
not less than seven days from the date of the hearing.
QUALIFIED PROFESSIONAL
Any person licensed by the Pennsylvania Department of State
or otherwise qualified by law to perform the work required by this
chapter.
[Added 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
RADIUS CURB
That section of curb forming an arc beginning at the end
of a driveway and continuing to throat of the driveway.
RECHARGE
The replenishment of groundwater through the infiltration
of rainfall, other surface waters, or land application of water or
treated wastewater.
RECORD DRAWING
(1)
Plans for recording in the county courthouse executed by subdivision
or land development plan applicant and acknowledged by the Township
as "final approved" in accordance with this Code.
(2)
Original design documents revised to illustrate the as-built
conditions, including all changes from the final approved plan as
may have been subsequently approved by the design engineer pursuant
to the review of the Township Engineer.
REDEVELOPMENT
Earth disturbance activities on land which has previously
been disturbed or developed, including any development that requires
demolition or removal of existing structures or impervious surfaces
at a site and replacement with new impervious surfaces. (Maintenance
activities such as pavement top-layer milling and repaving are not
considered to be redevelopment. Interior remodeling projects and tenant
improvements are also not considered to be redevelopment. Utility
trenches in streets are not considered redevelopment unless more than
50% of the street width, including shoulders, is removed and repaved).
REGULATED ACTIVITIES
Actions or proposed actions that have an impact on stormwater runoff quality or quantity and that are specified in §
122-78B.
REGULATED EARTH DISTURBANCE ACTIVITY
Any earth disturbance activity subject to regulation under
25 Pa. Code Chapter 92, 25 Pa. Code Chapter 102, or the Clean Streams Law.
[Amended 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
RELEASE RATE
The percentage of existing conditions peak rate of runoff
from a site or subarea to which the proposed conditions peak rate
of runoff must be reduced to protect downstream areas.
REPAVING
Replacement of the impervious surface that does not involve
excavation or reconstruction of an existing paved (impervious) surface.
REPLACEMENT PAVING
Reconstruction of and full replacement of an existing paved
(impervious) surface.
RESERVE STRIP
A parcel of land separating a street from adjacent properties.
RETENTION BASIN
A structure in which stormwater is stored, in part, over
an extended period of time and not released during or immediately
after the storm event. Retention basins may designed for infiltration
purposes, and may not have a direct outlet to a watercourse. The retention
basin must infiltrate stored water in four days or less for purposes
of this chapter as a BMP.
RETENTION VOLUME/REMOVED RUNOFF
The volume of runoff that is captured and not released directly
into the surface waters of the commonwealth during or after a storm
event.
RETURN PERIOD
The average interval, in years, within which a storm event
of a given magnitude can be expected to recur. For example, the twenty-five-year
return period rainfall would be expected to recur on the average of
once every 25 years; or stated in another way, the probability of
a twenty-five-year storm occurring in any one year is 0.04 (i.e.,
a 4% chance).
[Amended 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
RIGHT-OF-WAY
A strip of land occupied or intended to be occupied by a
street, alley, crosswalk or for other public or semipublic purposes.
The usage of the term "right-of-way" for land-plotting purposes in
Franconia Township shall mean that every right-of-way hereinafter
established and shown on a final record plan is to be separate and
distinct from the lots or parcels adjoining such right-of-way and
not included within the dimensions or areas of such lots or parcels.
RIPARIAN BUFFER
The area of land immediately adjacent to any stream, lake,
pond, or wetland, intended to be permanently vegetated, measured perpendicular
to and horizontally from the edge of a water body or top-of-bank on
both sides of a stream. (See "top-of-bank.")
[Added 11-19-2018 by Ord.
No. 400; amended 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
RISER
A vertical pipe extending from the bottom of a pond that
is used to control the discharge rate from the pond for a specified
design storm.
ROAD MAINTENANCE
Earth disturbance activities within the existing road cross-section,
such as grading and repairing existing unpaved road surfaces, cutting
road banks, cleaning or clearing drainage ditches and other similar
activities.
ROOF DRAINS
A drainage conduit or pipe that collects water runoff from
a roof and leads it away from the structure.
ROOFTOP DETENTION
The temporary ponding and gradual release of stormwater falling
directly onto flat roof surfaces using controlled-flow roof drains
into building designs.
RUNOFF
Any part of precipitation that flows over the land.
[Amended 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
RUNOFF FROM A FULLY DEVELOPED AREA UPSTREAM
The surface water runoff that can be reasonably anticipated
upon maximum development of that area of the watershed located upstream
from the subject tract, as permitted by prevailing zoning or the Township
Comprehensive Plan.
RURAL AREA
An area where roadways have been built to typical rural highway
standards without sidewalks and curbs.
SEDIMENT
Soils or other materials transported by surface water as
a product of erosion.
SEDIMENTATION
The process by which mineral or organic matter is accumulated
or deposited by moving wind, water or gravity. Once this matter is
deposited (or remains suspended in water), it is usually referred
to as "sediment."
SEDIMENT BASIN
A barrier, dam, retention or detention basin located and
designed in such a way as to retain rock, sand, gravel, silt, or other
material transported by water during construction.
SEDIMENT POLLUTION
The placement, discharge or any other introduction of sediment
into the waters of the commonwealth.
SEEPAGE PIT/SEEPAGE TRENCH
An area of excavated earth filled with loose stone or similar
coarse material, into which surface water is directed for infiltration
into the underground water.
SEPARATE STORM SEWER SYSTEM
A conveyance or system of conveyances (including roads with
drainage systems, Township streets, catch basins, curbs, gutters,
ditches, man-made channels or storm drains) primarily used for collecting
and conveying stormwater runoff and not for collection or conveyance
of septage or other liquids.
SETBACK
The distance between a building, structure, and/or parking
area and any lot line or building.
[Amended 1-20-2020 by Ord. No. 409]
SETBACK LINE
That line that is the required minimum distance from any
lot line or building and that establishes the area within which the
principal structure must be erected or placed.
[Added 1-20-2020 by Ord.
No. 409]
SHALLOW CONCENTRATED FLOW
Stormwater runoff flowing in shallow, defined ruts prior
to entering a defined channel or waterway.
SHEET FLOW
A flow process associated with broad, shallow water movement
on sloping ground surfaces that is not channelized or concentrated.
SHOULDER LINE
The intersection of the shoulder slope with the side slope
or ditch slope.
SHRUB
A woody perennial plant having persistent woody stems branching
from the base.
SIDEWALKS
A permanent hard paved walkway, continuous for a reasonable
distance and an integral part of the highway development, solely for
the use of pedestrians.
SIGHT DISTANCE
The distance of unobstructed view along the center line of
a street from the driver's sight height to an elevated item in the
street as defined by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation's
Highway Occupancy Driveway Sight Distance Regulations.
SIGHT TRIANGLE
Proper sight lines must be maintained at all intersections
of streets. Measured along the center line, there should be a clear
sight triangle of 75 feet from the point of intersection based on
the posted speed limit. No building or present or future obstruction
will be permitted in this area.
SKIRTS
Panels specifically designed for the purpose of screening
the underside of a mobile home by forming an extension of the vertical
exterior walls of the mobile home and covering the entire distance
between the bottom of the exterior walls and the ground elevation
below.
SLDO
Subdivision and Land Development Ordinance.
SLOPE
The face of an embankment or cut section; any ground whose
surface makes an angle with the plane of the horizon. Slopes are usually
expressed in a percentage based upon vertical difference in feet per
100 feet of horizontal distance.
SOIL COVER COMPLEX METHOD
A method of runoff computation developed by the NRCS that
is based on relating soil type and land use/cover to a runoff parameter
called curve number (CN).
SOIL STABILIZATION
Chemical or structural treatment of a mass of soil to increase
or maintain its stability or otherwise improve its engineering properties.
SOIL SURVEY
A report entitled "Soil Survey of Montgomery County, Pennsylvania,"
published April 1967 by the Soil Conservation Service, United States
Department of Agriculture, which is available in the Township or through
the Extension Service, Agricultural Agent, the Pennsylvania State
University in Norristown.
SPECIAL PROTECTION WATERSHEDS
Watersheds that have been designated in Pennsylvania Code
Title 25, Environmental Protection, Chapter 93, Water Quality Standards,
as exceptional value (EV) or high quality (HQ) waters.
SPILLWAY
A conveyance that is used to pass the peak discharge of the
maximum design storm that is controlled by the stormwater facility.
STABILIZED MATERIAL
Any aggregate such as gravel, stone, slag or mixtures of
such aggregates with soil, placed in such a manner as to provide a
smooth, stable, all-weather surface not subject to undue raveling.
STATE WATER QUALITY REQUIREMENTS
The regulatory requirements to protect, maintain, reclaim,
and restore water quality under Title 25 of the Pennsylvania Code
and the Clean Streams Law.
[Amended 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
STEEP SLOPES
A characteristic of natural terrain whereby the difference
in the vertical elevation of the surface over a horizontal distance,
known as rise over run and expressed as a percentage, is 15% or greater.
[Added 11-19-2018 by Ord.
No. 400]
STORAGE INDICATION METHOD
A reservoir routing procedure based on solution of the continuity
equation (inflow minus outflow equals the change in storage) with
outflow defined as a function of storage volume and depth.
STORM FREQUENCY
The number of times that a given storm event occurs or is
exceeded on the average in a stated period of years. See "return period."
STORM SEWER
A system of pipes and/or open channels that convey intercepted
runoff and stormwater from other sources, but exclude domestic sewage
and industrial wastes.
STORMWATER
The surface or drainage runoff generated by precipitation
reaching the surface of the land or snow or ice melt.
[Amended 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
STORMWATER AND WATERSHED MANAGEMENT SITE PLAN
The plan prepared by the applicant or his representative
of plats, construction details and supporting computations indicating
how stormwater runoff will be managed at the particular site of interest
according to this chapter (includes a site-specific stormwater management
site plan in a non-NPDES or Act 167 context).
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT BEST PRACTICES
Those structural physical constructed facilities and nonphysical
land management practices intended to reduce the rate and volume of
rainfall runoff and improve runoff water quality is abbreviated as
BMPs or SWM BMPs.
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT FACILITY
Any structure, natural or man-made, that, due to its condition,
design, or construction, conveys, stores, or otherwise affects stormwater
runoff quality, rate or quantity. Typical stormwater and watershed
management facilities include, but are not limited to, detention and
retention basins, open channels, storm sewers, pipes, and infiltration
structures.
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT PLAN
The watershed plans, known as the "East Branch Perkiomen
Creek Watershed Act 167 Stormwater Management Plan" and "Neshaminy
and Little Neshaminy Creeks Watershed Act 167 Stormwater Management
Plan," for managing those land use activities that will influence
stormwater runoff quality and quantity and that would impact the East
Branch Perkiomen Creek and Neshaminy and Little Neshaminy Creek Watersheds
adopted by Bucks and Montgomery Counties as required by the Act of
October 4, 1978, P.L. 864 (Act 167).
STORMWATER MANAGEMENT SITE PLAN (SWM SITE PLAN)
The plan prepared by the developer or his representative
indicating how stormwater runoff will be managed at the development
site in accordance with this chapter. "Stormwater management site
plan" will be designated as "SWM site plan" throughout this chapter.
[Added 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
STREAMBANK EROSION
The widening, deepening, or headward cutting of channels,
streams and waterways, whether natural or man-made, caused by stormwater
runoff or bankfull flows.
STREAM ENCLOSURE
A bridge, culvert or other structure in excess of 100 feet
in length upstream to downstream which encloses a regulated water
of the commonwealth.
STREAM FREQUENCY
The number of times that a given storm event occurs or is
exceeded on the average in a stated period of years. See "return period."
STREET, HALF
A street of less than the required right-of-way, that is,
where a street is proposed or a right-of-way is provided along a property
line where the center line of the street would be the property line.
STREET LINE
The dividing line between a lot and the right-of-way of a
street, legally open or officially recorded by the township.
STREET, MARGINAL ACCESS
A street parallel and adjacent to a primary street providing
access to abutting properties by a cartway separated from the primary
street by a reserve strip.
STREET or ROAD
A right-of-way, publicly or privately owned, serving primarily
as means of vehicular and pedestrian travel, furnishing access to
abutting properties, which may also be used to provide space for sewers,
public utilities, shade trees and sidewalks.
STREET, PRIMARY
A street carrying heavy traffic volumes of fast-moving traffic.
STREET, RESIDENTIAL
A street used primarily as the principal means of access
to local properties and which carries a small volume of traffic.
STREET, SECONDARY
A street connecting local residential streets to primary
streets and which carries a lesser volume of traffic.
STRUCTURE
Anything constructed or erected on the ground or attached
to the ground, including but not limited to buildings, factories,
sheds, cabins, mobile homes and other similar items.
SUBAREA (SUBWATERSHED)
The smallest drainage unit of a watershed for which stormwater
and watershed management criteria have been established in the stormwater
management plan.
SUBDIVISION
As defined in the Pennsylvania Municipalities Planning Code,
Act of July 31, 1968, P.L. 805, No. 247.
SURFACE WATERS OF THE COMMONWEALTH
Any and all rivers, streams, creeks, rivulets, impoundments,
ditches, watercourses, storm sewers, lakes, dammed water, wetlands,
ponds, springs, and all other bodies or channels of conveyance of
surface water, or parts thereof, whether natural or artificial, within
or on the boundaries of this commonwealth.
SURVEYOR
A professional land surveyor licensed as such in the Commonwealth
of Pennsylvania.
SWALE
A low-lying stretch of land which gathers or carries surface
water runoff.
SWM SITE PLAN
The documentation of the stormwater management system, including
supporting graphs, specifications, construction details and technical
analysis, to be used for a given development site, the contents of
which are further defined herein. Also same as a stormwater and watershed
management plan, or a subset thereof, for a specific land parcel proposed
for building(s), building expansion, impervious or semi-impervious
paving, grading or otherwise disruption of the existing topography,
land surface or hydrologic regime.
TENURE
The form of occupancy of a unit, e.g., fee-simple sale, rental,
condominium, cooperative, etc.
TIME OF CONCENTRATION (Tc)
The shortest time required for surface runoff to travel from
the hydraulically most distant point of the watershed to a point of
interest within the watershed. This time may be the combined total
of overland flow time and flow time in pipes or channels as the shortest
flow path.
TOP-OF-BANK
Highest point of elevation in a stream channel cross-section
at which a rising water level just begins to flow out of the channel
and over the floodplain.
TOPSOIL
Surface soils and subsurface soils which presumably are fertile
soils and soil material, ordinarily rich in organic matter or humus
debris. Topsoil is usually found in the uppermost soil layer called
the "A horizon."
TOWNSHIP
Franconia Township, Montgomery County, Pennsylvania.
TRACT AREA
An area of a piece of land, property or properties that is
the subject of a development application. It shall be defined as the
area contained within the property lines of the tract, excluding any
area within any public or private right-of-way and required, ultimate
right-of-way of an existing street and as defined by an onsite, field
survey.
[Amended 1-20-2020 by Ord. No. 409]
TRACT AREA, GROSS
An area of a piece of land, property or properties that is
the subject of a development application. It shall be defined as the
area contained within the property lines of the tract as determined
by an on-site field survey.
[Added 1-20-2020 by Ord.
No. 409]
TRAVEL TRAILER
A recreational vehicle requiring a separate power source
for pulling it, which may include living, sleeping, eating and sanitary
facilities, but which is designed for vacation travel and not for
long-term or permanent occupancy.
TREE
Any woody plant with a well-defined stem at least 11/2 inches
in caliper at 12 inches above the ground.
TREE MASS
A grouping of three or more trees, each at least 11/2 inches
in caliper, within a one-hundred-square-foot area.
TREE, MATURE
Any tree of six inches or more in caliper, whether standing
alone, in tree masses or woodlands. A mature tree shall be a healthy
specimen and shall be a desirable species, as determined by the Municipal
Landscape Architect.
TREE, SPECIMEN
Any tree with a caliper that is 75% or more of the record
tree of the same species in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
ULTIMATE RIGHT-OF-WAY
The expected future right-of-way computed from the center
line of an established right-of-way, as shown on the Official Map
Summary of Franconia Township.
ULTIMATE RIGHT-OF-WAY LINE
The line parallel to the center line of any public street
which defines the boundary of the ultimate right-of-way.
URBAN AREA
An area where the roadways have been built to typical city
street standards, including sidewalks and curbs.
USDA
United States Department of Agriculture.
[Added 3-20-2023 by Ord. No. 418]
USE AREA
Any area of land that is given to one category of land use
and is used to compute the net density of that use.
VEGETATED SWALE
A natural or man-made waterway, usually broad and shallow,
covered with erosion-resistant grasses, used to convey surface water.
VEHICLE
Any device in, upon or by which any person or property is
or may be transported or drawn upon a public highway.
VEHICULAR USE AREA
Any paved ground surface, except a street, used by any type
of vehicle, whether moving or at rest.
VERNAL POND (POOL)
Seasonal depressional wetlands that are covered by shallow
water for variable periods from winter to spring, but may be completely
dry for most of the summer and fall.
VISUAL SCREEN
A barrier of living or nonliving landscape material put in
place for the purpose of obscuring the view of the premises screened;
also called a "buffer."
WATER CONNECTION
The water connection consists of all pipes, fittings and
appurtenances from the water riser pipe to the water inlet pipe of
the distribution system within the mobile home.
WATERCOURSE
A channel or conveyance of surface water, permanent stream,
intermittent stream, river, brook, creek or a channel or ditch for
water, whether natural or man-made.
WATER RISER PIPE
The water riser pipe is that portion of the water service
pipe which extends vertically to the ground elevation and terminates
at a designated point at each mobile home lot.
WATERSHED
Region or area drained by a river, watercourse or other body
of water, whether natural or artificial.
WATERS OF THE COMMONWEALTH
Any and all rivers, streams, creeks, rivulets, ditches, watercourses,
storm sewers, lakes, dammed water, wetlands, ponds, springs, and all
other bodies or channels of conveyance of surface and underground
water, or parts thereof, whether natural or artificial, within or
on the boundaries of the commonwealth as defined by law.
WATER SYSTEMS
Water supply system(s), either publicly or privately owned,
that serve the general public is (are) not restricted to type of user
or land use.
WELLHEAD
(1)
A structure built over a well.
(2)
The source of water for a well.
WELLHEAD PROTECTION AREA
The surface and subsurface area surrounding a water supply
well, well field, or spring supplying a public water system, through
which contaminants are reasonably likely to move toward and reach
the water source.
WETLANDS
Those areas that are inundated and saturated by surface water
or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support,
and that under normal circumstances do support, a prevalence of vegetation
typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. Wetlands
generally include swamps, marshes, bogs, fens and similar areas. More
specifically, an area meeting the official wetland definition of the
United States Army Corps of Engineers Wetlands Delineation Manual,
Technical Report Y-87-1; or the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental
Protection Wetlands Identification and Delineation, Chapter 105, Dam
Safety and Waterways Management Rules and Regulations; or the most
recently amended reports, will be considered a wetland for the purposes
of this chapter.
[Amended 11-19-2018 by Ord. No. 400]
WET BASIN
Pond for stormwater runoff management that is designed to
detain urban runoff and always contains water.
WOODLANDS
Areas, groves, or stands of mature or largely mature trees,
the majority of which are greater than six inches' caliper measured
four feet above grade, covering an area greater than 1/4 acre; or
groves of mature trees without regard to minimum area consisting of
more than 10 individual specimens which are greater than eight inches'
caliper measured four feet above grade and form a contiguous canopy.
Woodlands shall be measured from the dripline of the outer trees.
[Amended 11-19-2018 by Ord. No. 400]
YARD
An open, unoccupied space on the same lot with a building
or buildings or use, open and unobstructed from the ground to the
sky.