Unified Development Ordinance

Sec. 2.5.3. Configuration of Open Space

Sec. 2.5.3. Configuration of Open Space aaron.sheppard… Tue, 05/23/2023 - 09:40
  1. The minimum width for any required open space is 50 feet. Exceptions may be granted for items such as trail easements and linear parks and 32-foot wide tree conservation areas.
  2. At least 60% of the required open space must be contiguous. For the purposes of this section, contiguous includes any open space bisected by a Local Street or Mixed Use Street, provided that:
    1. A pedestrian crosswalk provides access to the open space on both sides of the street; and
    2. The right-of-way area is not included in the calculation of minimum open space required.
  3. Where feasible, the open space should adjoin any neighboring areas of open space, other protected areas and non-protected natural areas.
  4. The required open space must be directly accessible to the largest practicable number of dwelling units within the development. Non-adjoining lots must be provided with safe, convenient access to the open space.
  5. No lot can be farther than a ¼-mile radius from the open space. This radius is measured in a straight line from the lot line, without regard for street, sidewalk or trail connections, to the nearest point of the open space.
  6. Access to the open space must be provided either by an abutting street or easement not less than 20 feet in width.
  7. Open space can be relocated in an approved development, provided the following standards are met:
    1. The amount of open space shall be equal to or greater than the amount shown on the approved plan.
    2. Open space adjacent to a recorded tree conservation area cannot be relocated to an area absent tree conservations area.
    3. Open space areas contained in the list of "primary open space" in Sec. 2.5.2.A cannot be relocated to a secondary or tertiary open space area as defined in Sec. 2.5.2.B. and C. Open space areas contained in the list of "secondary open space" in Sec. 2.5.2.B. cannot be relocated to "tertiary" open space as defined in Sec. 2.5.2.C.