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This section establishes the criteria for designing a lot, a development, or a site.
Section 5.2 describes how to establish lots and lot lines. The reader should also
consult the Dimensional Matrix in the zoning regulations (section 3.8, Table 3.8-1)
for additional standards governing lot design.
Environmental protection is an important theme of the comprehensive plan and town
policy. This article contains a number of standards to minimize the impact of development
on the environment. Standards to control erosion and the development of steep slopes
are established in section 5.3. (The reader should also refer to the resource conservation
district regulations in article 3 of this appendix, and the floodplain management regulations of chapter 5 of the town code, for additional environmental regulations). Criteria for controlling
stormwater and drainage are set out in section 5.4. The central theme of these regulations
is to encourage "low-impact design" that disperses pavement into small modules, and
replicates the natural hydrological system of the site. Section 5.5 requires a portion of most developments to be used as parks or open space. This includes
reserving areas for common open space, with the payment of fees in lieu of reserving
these areas in order to create design flexibility. Section 5.6 requires developers and landowners to provide landscaping, as well as landscaped
buffers between incompatible uses. Section 5.7 requires the protection of trees from incompatible development. This section describes
what trees require protection, and how the root systems and other features are protected.
The design of street systems and regulation of traffic are described in section 5.8. This includes not only vehicular access, but also facilities for pedestrian and
bicycle access. Section 5.9 establishes both a minimum and a maximum amount of vehicle parking spaces that must
accompany new development.
The design of buildings and structures to facilitate access by disabled persons is
an increasingly important consideration in construction and development. This issue
is addressed in chapter 5 of the town code of ordinances, and the state building code.
Lighting and signage provide visibility for development, but can also create unsafe
conditions and clutter. Controlling light spillage onto adjoining properties is important
to Chapel Hill's neighborhoods. This issue is addressed in section 5.11. Section 5.14 controls the type, size and location of signs.
The final sections of the code relate to construction activities. The design of utilities
and site infrastructure, such as solid waste collection and water and sewer systems,
is governed by sections 5.12—5.13. Section 5.15 establishes standards to minimize the potential for nuisance-type conditions during
construction activities.
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