THREE CHARACTER AREAS 812

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1 Article 146-4: Development Standards 811 Description of Module 2. This Module 2 contains zoning and subdivision standards for site and lot development other than those that address a topic unique to one or more specific zone districts (which are covered in Article 146-2) and those related to permitted uses (which are covered in Article 146-3). Some of the content of these regulations will be relocated to Article (Zone Districts), Article (Permittee Uses) or Article (Zoning and Subdivision Procedures) in the final draft of the UDO, but are included here to assist in understanding how specific development standards will be implemented by specific procedures. No changes have been made to the content of Articles (Zone Districts) and (Permittee Uses) since Module 1 was released. Changes in response to citizen, stakeholder, staff, or steering committee comments will be made after all three Modules have been released and time for public comments on those Modules has passed. THREE CHARACTER AREAS 812 Some of the standards contained in this Article are tailored to specific areas as defined in Section 2.3., Three Character Areas Standards tailored for Subarea A are designed to promote context-sensitive reinvestment and redevelopment in older areas of the city, and reflect the smaller lots and streets generally platted in that Subarea. 2. Standards tailored for Subareas B are designed to promote context-sensitive infill, development, and redevelopment within the more suburban lot, street, and infrastructure found in that area of Aurora. 3. Standards for Subarea C are similar to those in Subarea B, but allow more flexibility for raw-land development. 811 Procedures in Module 2 Section (Historic Districts and Landmarks) have been moved to with other procedures, and substantive standards remain in Section The following map indicates the conceptual boundaries of these areas, but the official boundary maps are under development by Aurora City staff. The possibility of using Subarea A standards in Subareas B and C has been added since Module Map revised since Module 1. Boundaries between subareas under continued discussion by staff. Unified Development Ordinance, Modules 1, 2 and 3 Staff Draft April 2016 Aurora, CO Page 171

2 4.1. Applicability Summary Table Generally 4.1 APPLICABILITY SUMMARY TABLE The following Table indicates relevant zoning and subdivision standards in Sections 4.2 through 4.12 that apply during different types of application review. Table Summary Table of Development Standards Applicability Standard UDO Section Subdivision Plat GDPs FDPs Site Plan Review Dimensional Standards 4.2 Subdivision Standards 4.3 Neighborhood Protection Standards 4.4 Lot Access and Connectivity 4.5 Parking, Loading, and Stacking 4.6 Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management 4.7 Building Design Standards 4.8 Exterior Lighting 4.9 Signs 4.10 Historic Preservation Standards DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS GENERALLY A. Setback and Yard Requirements 815 The building setback areas required under this section shall be unobstructed from its lowest point to the sky, except for fences, landscaping, and other specific building features specified in this section. B. Required Buffers 816 In addition to the dimensional standards in this section, required buffers may apply to development parcels per Section (Required Landscaped Areas). C. Height Limits 817 No structure shall exceed the height limits described in the zoning district standards except as specified in this Section 146. D. Measurement of Residential Density 818 Residential density shall be calculated by dividing the total number of residential units of each particular housing type by the adjusted area occupied by that housing type or sub-area. The adjusted area shall be the area to be occupied by a particular housing type and meeting the following criteria Table will be populated with Module 3, Zoning and Subdivision Procedures. This table serves as an example of how it will be formatted and applied to various procedures. 815 From current (A). Revised to remove No structures shall be located in the setback areas created by the zoning district standards, except for fences and building features listed in this chapter. 816 New cross-reference to landscaping standards. 817 From current From current (B) for the E-470 district and (B) from NE Plains. Provisions applied more broadly and to include site development areas rather than just referring to FDPs. Removed reference to average residential densities due to the difficulty to administer over time. Removed references to maximum densities, since the calculations also apply to minimum density requirements. The current TOD and FBAD districts also designate minimum density requirements, but do not define how they should be calculated. 819 Removed statement that Section shall not apply to the E-470 corridor zoning district. Aurora, CO Page 172

3 4.2. Dimensional Standards Dimensional Standards Summary Tables 1. The adjusted area shall form a single, closed polygon of compact and logical shape. 2. For the UC-TOD district, the adjusted area shall be determined by adopted station area plans The adjusted area shall not include any lands that the applicant is otherwise required to dedicate pursuant to statute, as long as the City Council agrees to accept, including any additional, voluntary dedication of land. 4. The adjusted area shall exclude any floodplain areas and any existing publicly owned land. 5. The adjusted area shall include the right-of-way of all public and private streets surrounded by the area's other eligible land uses, as well as one-half of the right-of-way of any public or private streets along the area's perimeter. For purposes of determining densities, limited access highways shall not be included as public and private streets and shall not be included in the adjusted area. 6. The adjusted area may include any privately owned open space, recreation facility, parking area, detention pond, or accessory structures, such as a maintenance facility or administrative office, customarily associated with the adjusted area's housing type as well as any golf course, that will be conveyed to the city for public use or held for private use DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS SUMMARY TABLES 821 COMMENTARY: Dimensions that are more strict since Module 1 or the current code are shaded in red. Dimensions that are more flexible are shaded in green. A. Residential Districts Dimensional standards for residential districts are shown in Table Table Summary of Residential Districts Dimensional Standards R-R R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 R-MH Lot Standards, Minimum [Also See Small Lot Options in Section A and Site area 43,560 sf 6,000 sf 7,000 sf 7,000 sf 7,000 sf Site area per dwelling unit 43,560 sf 6,000 sf 3,000 sf 2,000 sf 1,000 sf 822 Density, maximum 7 du/ac Lot frontage 120 ft. [1] 60 ft. 50 ft ft ft ft. 826 Lot width at setback 120 ft. 60 ft. 60 ft. Landscaped area, multifamily dwellings 45 % 45 % 45 % 45 % 45 % 45 % Landscaped area, nonresidential uses 35 % 35 % 35 % 35 % 35 % 35 % Setbacks, Minimum 827 Front 30 ft. [2] 25 ft. [2] 20 ft. [2] ft. 12 ft. 15 ft. Side 10 ft. [3] 5 ft. [3] 5 ft.[3] 5 ft. 5 ft. 5 ft. 820 New provision. 821 The organization of districts has changed since the public draft of Module 1. The open space district was relocated to nonresidential districts, and most of the growth districts were consolidated and/or eliminated based on staff recommendations. These changes have not yet been reflected in the Districts and Uses Articles in Module ,200 sf deleted, since it is too big for individual units. 823 Current standard is 60 feet; revised to accommodate smaller infill lots and greater diversity of housing types. 824 Current standard is 90 feet; revised to accommodate smaller infill lots. 825 Current standard is 90 feet; revised to accommodate smaller infill lots. 826 Revised from 38 feet to 40 feet for simplicity. 827 Setbacks in the R-3 and R-4 districts are new. Module 1 referred to the buffer requirements of Table 14.4 to determine the minimum setback requirements in these districts. Current code does not include setbacks for the R-2M through the R-5 districts. 828 Setback requirements for the R-2 were reduced since Module 1 to reflect a medium density set of standards. Aurora, CO Page 173

4 4.2. Dimensional Standards Dimensional Standards Summary Tables Table Summary of Residential Districts Dimensional Standards R-R R-1 R-2 R-3 R-4 R-MH Side, abutting a local street 25 ft ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 7.5 ft. 15 ft. Side, abutting a collector or arterial street 25 ft. 25 ft. 20 ft. 20 ft. 15 ft. 15 ft. Rear 25 ft. 20 ft. 15 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 8 ft. Rear, abutting a street 25 ft. 20 ft. 15 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 15 ft. Building separation between units 16 ft. Building Standards Building height, max. 35 ft. 35 ft. 35 ft. 40 ft. 60 ft. 20 ft.[4] NOTES: [1] 60 ft. for lot frontage on a cul-de-sac or curved frontage. [2] When lots on both sides of the subject lot are developed with single-family detached or two-family structures, and the front setbacks on those single-family or two-family structures are not larger than 30 feet, the front setback shall be within 3 feet of the average of the actual front dwelling setbacks on the two adjacent lots. 829 [3] When lots on both sides of the subject lot are developed with single-family detached or two-family structures, and the side setbacks on those single-family or two-family structures are not larger than 10 feet, the minimum side setback shall be the average of the actual closest dwelling side setbacks on the two adjacent lots. 830 [4] Common area structures have a maximum height of 30 ft. B. Mixed-Use Districts Dimensional standards for mixed-use districts are shown in Table Table Summary of Mixed-Use Districts Dimensional Standards MU-N MU-O MU-C MU-OA MU-FB UC-R UC-TOD MU-A 831 Project and Site Standards Site area, max. Residential density, min. Setbacks and Build-To Standards 832 Front Setback from streets and residential property lines (Entries and arcades can be recessed from maximum setbacks) 833 Side setback, min. Rear setback, min. Separation of buildings 2 ac 20 ft. min Ped Subzone: From Colfax: 10 ft. min 15 max. Other Streets: 5 ft. min 10 ft. max. Roadside Subzone min.: Required Landscape Buffer 25 du/ac S side of Colfax/E of Peoria: 0 ft. min-15 max. [2] Local side street off Colfax or Peoria: 5 ft. min. from back of sidewalk Other streets: Required Landscape Buffer Main Street: 15 ft. max for at least 50% of ground floor frontage All streets other than the Main Street: 10 ft. min 180 ft. max Core: 60 du/ac Edge: 20 du/ac Core: 10 ft. max. Edge: 18 ft. max. Core: None Edge: same as adjacent residential district Core: 5 ft. Edge: same as adjacent residential district 25 ft. min. 25 ft. 25 ft. 829 New provision to promote contextual infill and redevelopment. 830 New provision to promote contextual infill and redevelopment. 831 The MU-A district is for mixed-use airport, new district suggested by staff. All dimensional standards are new. 832 Setbacks from centerline of alley in MU-O, MU-C, and MU-OA have been deleted as unnecessary. 833 From Original Aurora zone, now made general. Aurora, CO Page 174

5 4.2. Dimensional Standards Dimensional Standards Summary Tables Table Summary of Mixed-Use Districts Dimensional Standards MU-N MU-O MU-C MU-OA MU-FB UC-R UC-TOD MU-A 831 Building Standards Building height, general 2 stories max. Building height within 75 feet of residential district ft. max. 35ft. max. 836 Total area of all structures Total area of each individual use[2] 50,000 sf gfa max. 15,000 sf gfa max ft. 75 ft. 19 ft. min. on arterials 35 ft. max. 35 ft. max. NOTES: [1] Unless in the back of a parking area. [2] Except grocery stores, places of worship, schools, or recreation centers. 35 ft. max. along arterials and collectors 45 ft. max. on Main Street No building taller than Focal Point 35 ft. max. Core: No max 3 story min. Edge: max is 10 ft. higher than adjacent residential district No min. 35 ft. max. C. Special Purpose Districts Dimensional standards for special purpose districts are shown in Table Table Summary of Special Purpose Districts Dimensional Standards I-1 I-2 AD 837 OS Lot Standards District size, minimum 2 ac if not adjacent 8 ac if not to other I-1 lands 838 adjacent to I-2 N/A N/A Floor area ratio (FAR), maximum 1.0:1 Setbacks, Minimum Front 20 ft ft. 25 ft. 25 ft. for Front, abutting a city-designated arterial 25 ft. 50 ft. 25 ft. permanent Front, on interstate or expressway 100 ft. 100 ft. 100 ft. structures Front, on frontage road adjacent to from property 40 ft. 50 ft. 40 ft. interstate or expressway lines; 10 ft. for parking areas from property lines. Side 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. Side, abutting a public street 20 ft. 25 ft. 20 ft. Rear 5 ft. 5 ft. 5 ft. Rear, abutting a public street 20 ft. 25 ft. 20 ft. Building Standards Building height, maximum 60 ft. 60 ft. 60 ft. 20 ft. Building height abutting or within 200 feet of a residential district, maximum Same as adjacent residential district Same as adjacent residential district Same as adjacent residential district 834 Changed from 100 feet maximum to. This is new since the release of Module All standards except MU-O and MU-FB are new in order to protect adjacent residential areas. 836 This is a new standard since the release of Module 1. Because the maximum height was eliminated, this is an additional protection standard. 837 This is a new airport district suggested by staff; not yet reflected in Module 1. All standards are new. 838 Reduced from 8ac minimum. 839 Setbacks in the I-1 reduced since the release of Module 1. These proposed revisions are intended to allow for redevelopment and infill of less-intense industrial properties, which often come with minimal impacts to adjacent properties. Aurora, CO Page 175

6 4.2. Dimensional Standards Special Dimensional Standards SPECIAL DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS 840 A. Single-Family Residential Detached Subdivisions of Four Lots or More 841 No two single-family detached dwellings adjacent to one another shall have the same front yard setback. On adjacent lots, the front yard setback, measured from the longest foundation wall in the front plane of the home to the front property line, of each home shall vary by a minimum of two feet. An exception to this requirement shall be granted where an infill dwelling cannot comply because of lot depth or rear setback requirement. 842 In such cases, the minimum setback for the infill dwelling shall be an average of the setbacks of the two adjacent, existing dwellings. B. Small Lot Standards 843 Lots with less than 6,000 square feet of gross land area shall comply with the following additional standards. 1. Purpose The purpose of the small lot single-family design standards is to provide housing for individuals and families seeking convenience and to minimize home maintenance. The small lot subdivision-site plan shall be specifically designed to provide adequate light and air between units, adequate drainage between lots, interior and exterior privacy, open space relief on the individual lot and throughout the neighborhood, low maintenance building materials, innovative and architecturally interesting home design, attractive streetscapes, and adequate parking. In addition, the standards are designed to increase the variety of lot sizes, preserve open space, enhance natural features and site amenities, provide landscaped buffers, and promote energy conservation. 2. Maximum Percentage of Small Lots Small lots must be platted as part of a larger subdivision containing a mix of lot sizes to meet all of the requirements in Table Table Maximum Permitted Percentages of Small Lots In Zone districts with maximum single-family detached residential density Infill or Individual Development Parcel Master Planned Community Of 2 du/gross acre or less 0% 15% Greater than 2 but less than 4 du/gross acre 15% 25% Greater than 4 but less than 8 du/gross acre 25% 50% Removed provision (H) Places of Worship. Buildings or structures used as places of worship shall have a minimum setback of 25 feet from any property line. The limitation in this section shall not apply to places of worship lawfully existing or lawfully approved pursuant to the provisions of this chapter as of December 31, Also removed (F) Abutting Different Zoning Districts. Property situated in a zoning district that requires a ten-foot front setback, which immediately abuts a zone district requiring a greater front setback, must provide a front setback of 15 feet unless the written consent of the abutting property owner is obtained waiving the additional required setback. Test from 2015 ordinance in current section (J) reading Residential dwellings shall be set back a minimum of 150 feet from an oil and gas facility measured from the lot line of the residential lot; provided a sign not less than 4 square feet in area is posted at the line of a lot that is within 350 feet of an oil and gas facility that states: "There is an oil and gas facility within 350 feet of this lot" will be moved from the use-specific standards for oil and gas facilities to the use-specific standards for residential uses. 841 From current (D). 842 This provision will be reviewed and consolidated with other exceptions and variance procedures when Module 3 is drafted. 843 From current These standards will be reviewed and revised. 844 Current standard is 35% - increased based on staff comments. Aurora, CO Page 176

7 4.2. Dimensional Standards Special Dimensional Standards 3. Distribution of Small Lots In all developments on sites larger than four acres, the small lots shall be distributed so that no more than 50 small lots are adjacent to each other or separated by other small lots by a collector street Small Lot Development Standards Each Small Lot may contain only one single-family detached dwelling, regardless of what other uses are permitted in the zone district. All small lots shall comply with: (1) the standards for regular small lots set forth below; or (2) the standards for offset side yard small lots set forth below; or (3) the standards for clustered small lots set forth below. a. Regular Small Lots Regular Small Lots are permitted in all zone districts where single-family detached houses are permitted. Each All Regular Small Lots shall comply with the standards in Table Where Table does identify a different standard, the standards applicable to other single-family detached lots and developments apply. Table Regular Small Lot Development Standards Topic Minimum Lot Size Minimum Lot Frontage Minimum Front Setback Standard Garage Located in 5,000 sq. ft., or Front of, in Line With, 4,700 sq. ft. if lot has 8 foot tree lawn and 5 foot Driveway or to Side of House sidewalk outside property line Access From (See Figure 4.3-1) Street Frontage Garage Located to 4,500 sq. ft., or or Loop Lane 847 Rear of House sq. ft., if lot has 8 foot tree lawn and 5 foot sidewalk outside property line (See Figure 4.3-2) Garage Accessed from Alley 4,000 sq. ft., or 3,700 sq. ft. if lot has 8 foot tree lawn and 5 foot sidewalk outside property line Garage Accessed from Motor Court 4,200 sq. ft. No Garage or Driveway Access 3,000 sq. ft. 848 Cottage or Co-Housing Developments No minimum lot size required; minimum project size required per Section Garage Access Garage Located in 50 ft., or from a street or Front of, in Line With, 35 ft. on cul-de-sacs or curved streets with outside Loop Lane or to Side of House radius of 60 ft. or less, provided it is 50 ft. wide at Garage Located to Rear of House Garage Accessed from Alley Garage Accessed from Motor Court Frontage on Local Street with 8 ft. Tree Lawn Minimum Garage Setback the front setback line 45 ft., or 35 ft. on cul-de-sacs or curved streets with outside radius of 60 ft. or less, provided it is 45 ft. wide at the front setback line 38 ft., or 25 ft. on cul-de-sacs or curved streets with outside radius of 60 ft. or less, provided it is 38 ft. wide at the front setback line 50 ft., except that the minimum frontage on the two Motor Court end lots may be reduced to 30 ft. Front loaded garages: 20 ft. from front lot line to garage door facing street 845 Simplified to avoid use of vague roughly evenly distributed standard. 846 Special encroachment provisions in current Table 11-1 deleted as unnecessary. Requirements for frontage only on specific types of streets deleted. Maximum block length deleted because addressed in subdivision standards. Maintenance provisions deleted standard maintenance provisions apply. 847 Reference to Loop Lane added. 848 New standard for homes without garages. 849 Standards cross-referencing use-specific standards for minimum project size. These products are not subdivided into individual parcels but are generally organized as condominium or leasehold developments. Aurora, CO Page 177

8 4.2. Dimensional Standards Special Dimensional Standards Table Regular Small Lot Development Standards and 5 ft. Sidewalk Outside Lot Line Minimum Setback To Rest of House Minimum Garage Setback Side loaded garages: 8 ft. from front property line to garage side wall containing no garage doors 15 ft. from front lot line to nearest portion of house, excluding open porches and permitted encroachments Front loaded garages: 20 ft. from front lot line to garage door facing street Minimum Side Setback Rear Yard Setbacks Frontage on Side loaded garages: 15 ft. from front property Other Street or line to garage side wall containing no garage Loop Lane doors Minimum Setback 20 ft. from front lot line to nearest portion of To Rest of House house, excluding open porches and permitted encroachments 850 Frontage on Motor Court Per figures Interior Lot Line 5 ft. if side yard drains to front and rear of lot; 6 ft. if side yard drains in one direction only Corner Lots 12 ft., excluding permitted encroachments; or 8 ft. if side lot adjoins protected open space Lots in a Motor Court Per figure Lots with Alley Loaded Garages Other Lots Minimum open space with direct access to dwelling unit, not counting driveways and parking areas Garage doors: Distance from alley flow line shall be (a) between 4 and 10 ft. or (b) more than 20 ft. Other structures: 10 ft. min. Houses (including attached garages) 10 ft. Detached garages: 0 ft. 360 sq. ft. 851 A portion may be located on adjacent lot if easements are obtained 45% of house width 852 Maximum width of garage doors on façade facing a street Detached outdoor storage sheds Only permitted on lots without a garage 853 Side and rear yard fences Standard design installed by developer b. Offset Small Lots 854 In an offset side yard small lot development, houses are shifted to one side of their lot to provide for greater usable yard space on each lot. These developments require that planning for all of the house locations be done at the same time. Regular Small Lots are permitted in all zone districts where single-family detached houses are permitted, subject to the following standards. i. Basic Standards Offset small lot developments shall meet all the standards described in Table except that side setback lines on one side of the lot may be reduced to 3 feet as long as the minimum separation between houses remains at least 12 feet. The ability to reduce side setback lines to zero does not apply to the side setbacks facing streets or to interior side setbacks adjacent to lots that are not part of the offset side yard small lot development. A deed restriction must be recorded on the deed of each applicable lot to ensure continued compliance with this setback. ii. Easements When the side wall of a house is located within 3 feet of a side property line (Lot 1), the owner of Lot 1 shall be required to grant to the adjacent lot owner (Lot 2) 850 Encroachment provision simplified. 851 Minimum dimensions and design requirements deleted. 852 Exception for three vehicle driveways deleted. 853 New standard to allow storage sheds on lots where a garage is not constructed. 854 Privacy standards for offset spacing of windows in current code was deleted as unnecessary, because unified developments achieve this result. Aurora, CO Page 178

9 4.2. Dimensional Standards Special Dimensional Standards an easement to use such 3-foot side yard for any purpose, which easement shall obligate the owner of Lot 2 to maintain such side yard in good condition. In return, the owner of Lot 2 shall be required to grant the owner of Lot 1 an easement to use the 3 feet of Lot 2 closest to the property line for repair and maintenance of the house on Lot 1. c. Clustered Small Lots A clustered small lot development is a subdivision in which lots are smaller than otherwise required in the zoning district, but in which the overall number of lots does not exceed the maximum number of lots limited by the zoning district. Clustered small lot developments are permitted on parcels with 10 acres or more of gross area in all zone districts where single-family detached houses are permitted, subject to the following standards. i. Basic Standards Clustered small lots shall be exempt from the maximum permitted percentages of small lots contained in Table 4.2-4, but shall meet the standards in Table except that (1) the minimum lot sizes applicable to small lots with a garage accessed by an alley shall apply regardless of the garage access point, (2) and minimum lot width, frontage, and setbacks are waived for any portion of a lot adjacent to common open space. 855 ii. Common Open Space For each cluster lot, at least 2,500 sq. ft. of common open space shall be provided (in addition to any land required to be dedicated for parks and open spaces under Section ). At least two-thirds of the required common open space shall be in one contiguous parcel. The common open space shall be located that the walking distance between each lot and the common open space, measured along street frontages or pedestrian walkways, shall not exceed 1,320 feet. iii. Deed Restriction The minimum required common open space shall be preserved from development for a period of at least 40 years through the use of a dedication or recorded deed restriction or easement conveyed to the city or a property owners association or other organization with responsibility for maintenance of the open space and the ability to collect assessments or dues for such purpose. 855 Minimum width standard for qualifying open space was deleted. Aurora, CO Page 179

10 4.2. Dimensional Standards Special Dimensional Standards Figure 4.2-1: Dimensions for Small Lots with Front-Loaded Garages Aurora, CO Page 180

11 4.2. Dimensional Standards Special Dimensional Standards Figure 4.2-2: Dimensions for Small Lots on the Corner with Side-Loaded Garages Aurora, CO Page 181

12 4.2. Dimensional Standards Special Dimensional Standards Figure 4.2-3: Dimensions for Small Lots with Front-Loaded Garages in Rear Yards update graphic Aurora, CO Page 182

13 4.2. Dimensional Standards Special Dimensional Standards Figure 4.2-4: Dimensions for Small Lots with Alley-Loaded Garages update graphic Aurora, CO Page 183

14 4.2. Dimensional Standards Special Dimensional Standards Figure 4.2-5: Dimensions for Small Lots with Alley-Loaded Garages update to include other lot conditions as shown in previous graphic C. Two-family Dwellings in all Zone Districts Two-family dwellings shall meet the requirements for small lot development standards in subsection B, with the following exceptions: 1. The minimum lot area for homes with front-loaded garages may be reduced to 4,100 square feet; 2. The minimum lot area for homes with front-loaded garages in rear yards may be reduced to 3,600 square feet; 3. The minimum lot area for homes with alley-loaded garages in rear yards may be reduced to 3,200 square feet; 4. The minimum lot width may be reduced by five feet for each lot type. 856 D. Accessory Buildings in Residential Districts 857 The following standards apply to accessory buildings other than accessory dwelling units. Standards for accessory dwelling units are located in Section G. 1. Larger than 120 Square Feet Accessory buildings in residential districts larger than 120 square feet shall: a. Be constructed within the rear yard only; b. Not occupy more than 50 percent of the total rear yard; 856 From current (F)2, revised for clarity. 857 From current (b) through (E). Aurora, CO Page 184

15 4.2. Dimensional Standards Special Dimensional Standards c. Not exceed 50 percent of the gross floor area of the principal building; d. Not exceed the height of the principal building; e. Be set back a minimum of three feet, plus one foot for each of height over six feet, from each rear and side yard lot. However, accessory buildings abutting an alley shall be set back three feet regardless of height. f. Shall have design, colors, roof pitch, and building materials, similar to the principal building and the neighborhood, and shall not be clad in unpainted or galvanized metal Smaller than 120 Square Feet 859 Accessory buildings in residential districts that are equal to or smaller than 120 square feet may be placed within the side and rear setback requirements if the buildings are located in the rear one-half of the rear yard and not within six feet of any structure, other than a fence. Accessory buildings meeting this requirement are exempt from the fire safety construction standards of the International Building Code (IBC). 3. Carports and Garages Carports and private garages detached from the principal building requiring a building permit shall: a. Be constructed within the rear or side yard; b. Meet the side setback requirements for the underlying zoning district and the rear setbacks required by paragraph 2.a above. 4. Agricultural Buildings 860 E. Alleys Accessory buildings for agricultural uses shall: a. Be constructed within the rear or side yard; b. Meet the side and rear setback requirements in paragraph 1.e above. c. Not exceed 25 percent of the lot area. 861 No structures or use shall be permitted within three feet of the centerline of an alley. 862 F. Site Triangle Required Sight Triangle Area 864 For purposes of this section, the sight triangle area is: 858 Standard requiring similarity of materials was deleted, as was last sentence stating Any appeal from or waiver of this subsection shall be made to the board of adjustment and appeals because standard appeal provisions will apply. Wording simplified. 859 Standards on not altering drainage was deleted as unnecessary; standard on maintenance now appears in operating and maintenance standards. Text on avoidance of utility easements was deleted, since these smaller structures can generally be moved. 860 Removed design standards associated with agricultural uses. 861 Increased from 5% limit in current code. 862 Current standard in Section (E) is 10 feet. 863 From current (I), revised to reflect different treatments for Subareas A, B, and C. Removed subsections on violations, failure to comply, and nuisance. These will be more generally addressed by the general provisions of this UDO. Removed current Figure 11.2, which did not related to sight triangles. Text simplified by removing overlapping references to AASHTO standards. 864 Will be moved to definitions after public review of Module 2. Aurora, CO Page 185

16 4.2. Dimensional Standards Exceptions and Encroachments a. In Subarea A, the triangular area formed at a corner intersection of two public or private streets whose two sides are 10 feet, measured along the flow line of the streets, and whose third side is a line connecting the two sides; or b. In Subareas B and C, the triangular area formed at a corner intersection of two public or private streets whose two sides are 30 feet, measured along the flow line of the streets, and whose third side is a line connecting the two sides; or c. In Subareas B and C, the area formed at a corner intersection of an alley and a public or private street whose two sides are 15 feet, measured along the right-of-way line of the alley and the flow line of the street, and whose third side is a line connecting the two sides; or d. In Subareas B and C, the area formed at the intersection of a public or private street and a non-residential driveway aisle, whose two sides are 15 feet, Figure 4.2-6: Visibility in Sight Triangle measured along the flow line of the street and the edge of the driveway aisle, and whose third side is a line connecting the two sides. 2. Obstruction Prohibited 865 No person shall place or maintain any structures, fences, landscaping, or any other objects within any sight triangle that obscures sight visibility above the sight triangle area for more than six horizontal inches between a height of 42 inches and 96 inches above the roadway surface. Trees with an expected mature Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) of six inches or less may be planted and maintained within the sight triangle area if all branches are trimmed to maintain a clear vision for a vertical height of 96 inches above the roadway surface. 3. Modifications The requirements of this section may be modified by the city traffic engineer if accepted engineering practice would indicate that a modified visibility distance, either greater or lesser, would be acceptable or necessary for the safety of pedestrians, motorists, and bicyclists EXCEPTIONS AND ENCROACHMENTS A. Table of Exceptions and Encroachments Table identifies exceptions and encroachments into required yard areas and height limits. 865 Simplified by removing exceptions that are unlikely to occur or that require difficult calculations of the amount of view impairment. 866 Drawing will be revised to match this simplified text. Aurora, CO Page 186

17 4.2. Dimensional Standards Exceptions and Encroachments Table Exceptions and Encroachments 867 Structure or Feature Encroachments into Required Yard Areas Accessory solar collector 868 Accessory structures Accessory wind energy system 869 Conditions or Limits Exempt from side and rear setbacks except where prohibited by building code. Not permitted in required front setbacks. See Section C. Exempt from side and rear setbacks except where prohibited by building code. Not permitted in required front setbacks. Masonry ledges, window sills, belt courses, chimneys, fireplaces, cantilevers, architectural features, cornices, May extend two feet into a required setback. 871 eaves, and roof overhangs 870 Fencing, landscaping, walkways and stairways 872 Exempt from setback and yard requirements. Little library book exchange boxes 873 Exempt from front yard setbacks in residential zone districts, provided the portion of the yard occupied by the box does not exceed two square feet. One-story unenclosed porches, patios, and decks (30 May extend eight feet into required front yard setback inches or less in height above grade) 874 and may extend into required rear yard setback. One-story unenclosed porches, patios, and decks May extend into the rear yard setback up to 10 feet (greater than 30 inches in height above grade) 875 from the rear lot line. Open fire escapes in Subarea A and where already existing as of the effective date of this UDO. 876 May extend up to four feet into any required setback. Port cochere, carport, or canopy if every part is May extend into side setbacks, but no closer than 5 unenclosed except for necessary structural supports 877 feet to any side lot line. Raised garden beds no more than three feet in height 878 Exempt from setbacks requirements. Exceptions to Building Height Limits Places of worship towers and spires, belfries, cupolas, domes not used for human occupancy, chimneys, Exempt from height limit. Such features shall be ventilators, skylights, water tanks, bulkheads, similar erected only to such height necessary to accomplish features and necessary mechanical appurtenances the purpose they serve. 880 usually carried above the roof level 879 Structures built to support, shelter, or enclose emergency warning sirens, communication antennae, or other public safety devices operated by government agencies. 881 Requirements for telecom facilities are included in Section Z. Accessory wind energy system 883 Accessory rooftop solar collectors 884 Exempt from height limit. 882 Permitted height shall be 10 feet above the height limit for primary structures. May extend up to 18 inches above the height limit for primary structures. 867 Most carried forward from Sections to New standards are noted. 868 New. 869 New. 870 From current (B), revised to combine requirements for clarity. 871 Simplified by removing limitation to 8 feet in length. 872 From current (B), separated from other projections since these are exempt. Walkways added. 873 New. 874 From current (C), simplified by removing reference to posts. Removed Figure 11.0 not necessary since provisions are clearly stated in this table. 875 From current (C). Removed limitation on R-5 district since that district was eliminated. Removed limitation for these unenclosed porches, patios, and decks to be no closer than 30 feet from another similar structure on an abutting lot, which was an unenforceable regulation. 876 From current (D); revised to limit this to Subarea A and existing fire escapes. 877 New. 878 New. 879 From current (C) added towers to the list Simplified by removing vague compatibility standard. 881 From current (D). 882 Replaces 10 foot height limit with City Council ability to vary further. These are very rare facilities. 883 New. 884 New. Aurora, CO Page 187

18 4.3. Subdivision Standards Applicability 4.3 SUBDIVISION STANDARDS APPLICABILITY 886 Unless otherwise expressly stated in a valid, approved development agreement or annexation agreement, the provisions of this Section shall apply to all subdivisions or resubdivisions of land into lots for development. Procedures for review and approval of subdivisions of land are in Section X COMPLIANCE WITH PLANS AND REGULATIONS 887 The design of subdivisions shall comply with: A. The Aurora Comprehensive Plan and all other adopted plans and policies of the City Council; B. The requirements of the zoning district (and overlay district(s), if any) in which the property is located, and all provisions of this Code applicable to the type of development proposed in that zoning district; and C. All requirements of any Master Plan or site plan approved for the property AVOIDANCE OF SENSITIVE AREAS 888 A. Intent Protect significant natural features, resources, and sensitive areas in order to minimize the impacts of development on the environment and create more distinctive neighborhoods and mixed-use areas. Such features shall be used as amenities to enhance the value of development. B. Standards The following standards apply in subsections B and C. 1. Subdivisions shall be organized to protect, appropriately use, or enhance the following types of natural resources and features, by including such areas in common landscaped areas or dedicated open space, by requiring construction in these areas to avoid sensitive land features to the maximum extent feasible, or by mitigating the impacts of construction on these features to the maximum extent feasible. Where possible, these features shall be connected or integrated with similar features on adjacent lands. a. Water features (in addition to floodplains); b. Parks and public open space areas on or adjacent to the site; c. Historic or archeological sites or areas that have been recognized by the City Council as significant; d. Significant views of the Front Range or of designated open space areas as viewed from dedicated public parks and open space, from the E-470 tollway, or from collector or arterial streets; e. Riparian wildlife habitat, as identified by the Division of Wildlife; and f. The approximate topographic form of major ridgelines and swales. g. Natural or geologic hazard areas or soil conditions, such as unstable or potentially unstable slopes, faulting, landslides, rockfalls, or expansive soils; and 885 Materials from current Chapter 147, with changes as noted. Provisions for landscaping in Section were not carried over, since all landscaping regulations are now in Section From current From current , with changes as noted. 888 From current , currently applicable only in E-470 Zone District, with materials from , 43, and 44 integrated. Aurora, CO Page 188

19 4.3. Subdivision Standards Avoidance of Sensitive Areas h. Other natural features such as bluffs, ridges, steep slopes, stands of mature trees, rock outcroppings, or wetlands. 2. Grading on or near major ridgelines and swales shall maintain their approximate topographic form. Significant reconstruction of major or prominent topographic features shall be avoided to the maximum extent feasible. 3. Slope conditions shall be addressed as follows: a. Lands that show evidence of slope instability, landslides, avalanche, flooding, or other natural or manmade hazards shall not be included in platted lots. If requested by the planning director, based on the topography of the land, the applicant shall demonstrate that the slope's ground surface and subsurface are stable and that the proposed development will not cause instability or increase the potential for future hazards. b. New structures shall not be built on any portion of any parcel of land that contains an elevation change of more than 20 feet and an average slope of 30 percent or more. Structures shall be exempt from this requirement if not more than ten percent of the total area of the lot is located on slopes in excess of 30 percent. c. Any site disturbances that remove existing vegetation from a property shall not be permitted unless a stormwater quality permit for erosion control has been previously approved, as required by the City Code Potential wildlife habitat shall be protected from potential water quality impacts shall be addressed as follows: a. New structures intended for human occupancy shall not be located within 100 feet of any perennial stream or any public lake, reservoir, or element of a public water supply system, unless the City engineer determines that a smaller setback would adequately protect water quality and wildlife habitat. b. In making the determination required in paragraph (a) of this section, the city engineer shall consider factors such as the proposed use of the land, the intensity of proposed human activity on the land, the types of existing vegetation on the land, the existence of wetlands or floodplains on the property, probable future water levels and habitat quality based on potential upstream development, the importance of the property to existing water supply sources and habitat networks, water quality and habitat quality improvements included in the design of the proposed development, and the existing and proposed uses of nearby lands. c. Roads, trails, recreation access sites, bridges, fences, irrigation and water diversion facilities, erosion and flood control devices, underground utilities, and similarly necessary structures may be located within the required setback All subdivisions shall be designed to avoid and/or minimize soil erosion, both during construction and at final stabilization, in accordance with the City of Aurora Storm Drainage Design and Technical Criteria Natural features identified in this Section shall be accomplished through the inclusion of a site analysis in a Framework Development Plan, or with any site plan or plat when a Framework Development Plan is not required. The site analysis shall describe the following: a. The location and extent of the natural features described in this section; b. The extent to which these features will be included in common dedicated space; 889 From current From current From current (b). Aurora, CO Page 189

20 4.3. Subdivision Standards Creation of Distinct Neighborhoods c. The extent to which construction of land uses and roads will occur in or adjacent to these features; d. The manner in which these features will be protected or used as amenities when construction or grading occurs in or adjacent to the features; and e. The manner in which the impacts of construction or grading will be mitigated CREATION OF DISTINCT NEIGHBORHOODS Single-family residential developments in the Residential 1 through Residential 4 zoning districts within Subareas B or C, or in a Planned Development district in Subarea B or C containing residential units of the same type(s) permitted in those zoning districts, 892 in shall be organized into distinct neighborhoods by complying with the following standard. 893 A. No area in which more than 70% of the lots are occupied by a Household Living uses (as shown in Table 3.2-1) shall contain more than 200 contiguous acres unless it is separated from other adjacent residential development areas by a significant natural or man-made features such as: 1. Clearly visible bluffs, rock outcroppings, or landforms designated as open space; 2. Water features, major drainages, or designated open spaces at least 100 feet in width; 3. An arterial street meeting the requirements of the Aurora street standards; 4. Permitted or approved conditional nonresidential uses; or B. A collector street that has a planted median at least 14 feet in width and that complies with all other standards for a collector street as described in the Aurora Street Standards. If a street with planted median is used to define adjacent neighborhoods, the same fencing style may not be used on both sides of the street THROUGH-CONNECTIVITY 894 All subdivisions shall comply with the Access and Connectivity requirements in Section 4.6 applicable at the time of subdivision approval or modification BLOCK DIMENSIONS 895 A. In Subarea A, the length and width of new blocks created through subdivision shall be within 25 percent of the length and width of the length and width of blocks nearest adjacent subdivided land, or, if none of the adjacent land has been subdivided, shall not exceed 300 feet in width and 500 feet in length. B. In Subareas B and C, the maximum block length shall be 660 feet, and the perimeter of new blocks created for residential development, measured at the curb line of adjacent streets, shall not exceed 2,640 feet. C. In all Subareas, each block shall be bordered by public or private streets meeting the requirements of Section (Lot Access and Connectivity) and with all applicable Aurora Street Specifications, or by designated or dedicated parks or open spaces. 892 Revised to broaden and clarify application beyond single-family neighborhoods in current Code. 893 Reworded for clarity. 894 Connectivity requirements have been strengthened in Section New section. Aurora, CO Page 190

21 4.3. Subdivision Standards Lot Design and Layout LOT DESIGN AND LAYOUT 896 A. Floodplains No residential lot or parcel intended for residential or nonresidential occupancy shall include any land included within the 100-year floodplain, as determined by the city engineer. B. Access to Public Streets All lots shall have direct or indirect access to a dedicated public street. If the plat provides for indirect access (i.e., over intervening private drives), access easements benefiting all lots with indirect access shall be provided and recorded before any building permit is issued for a lot with indirect access. C. Double-Frontage Lots Double frontage lots shall not be permitted adjacent to local streets, and should be avoided where practicable along collector and arterial streets. Where double frontage lots cannot be avoided, buffering of back yards from those streets shall include a landscaped setback at least 35 feet in width between the fence and the street, per Section D. Variety of Lot Sizes Each subdivision or phase of a residential subdivision containing up to 50 gross acres of land shall include at least two different sizes of lots differing in gross lot size by at least 20 percent, and at least 20 percent of the residential lots shall be in each size category. 2. Each subdivision or phase of a residential subdivision containing 50 gross acres or more shall include at least three different sizes of lots differing in gross lot size by at least 20 percent, and at least 20 percent of the residential lots shall be in each size category. E. Remainder Parcels Prohibited 899 No subdivision of land shall result in any remainder parcel or tract that does not otherwise meet the standards in this Section 4.3 without the Director s approval, which shall be based on consistency with the City s adopted planning goals and development guidance documents. F. Street Fences Although lots may be created with rear lot lines facing arterial, collector, or continuous type 1 local streets, such lots shall be required to comply with the requirements of Section (Fence and Wall Standards), which are designed to prevent the creation of "fence canyons." A note reading as follows shall appear on the plat: "All owners of lots adjacent to [names of arterial, collector, and continuous type 1 local streets] shall be required to comply with requirements of the A.C.C. that may restrict the ability to build a fence along those streets or the types and sizes of fences that can be built along those streets." STREETS AND ALLEYS 900 A. Generally Each subdivision shall include an integrated system of streets, sidewalks, trails, and infrastructure that: 896 From current Integrates material from current (d). 898 New provision. 899 New provision. 900 Integrates material from current Aurora, CO Page 191

22 4.3. Subdivision Standards Sidewalks, Trails, and Bicycle Paths 1. Provides for efficient movement of people, bicycles, and automobiles within the subdivision and to and from adjacent development; 2. Is consistent with the adopted Aurora Comprehensive Plan, any Master Plans, or site plans approved for the property, and with the results of any circulation analysis; 3. Meets the requirements of Section (Lot Access and Connectivity); and 4. Meets all applicable Aurora Street Specifications with regard to curves, grades, intersections, continuity, traffic flow, terminating streets, and traffic calming. 901 B. Alleys In Subarea A, new subdivisions and resubdivisions shall include an alley meeting all applicable city specifications on the same alley alignment existing on any adjacent block, unless the Director determines that installation of an alley is impracticable due to topography, utilities, fire safety, or public service considerations. 902 C. Medians 903 If any portion of a street is designed with a median, the median design shall comply with all Aurora Road Specifications Manual, as well as with those requirements for Site Design for Stormwater Management and Water Conservation in Section D. Reserve Strips Reserve strips on outer boundaries of a subdivision may be established to control access to a partial width street, upon approval by the subdivision review committee, provided that the subdivision is accompanied by an agreement to dedicate such strips when sufficient ground is made available for public use to permit widening of the strip to its required width. No other reserve strips controlling access to public ways shall be permitted, except when the control and disposition of land comprising such strips are placed within the jurisdiction of the city under conditions specified by the subdivision review committee and attached to the subdivision plat. E. Street Names The subdivider shall furnish, install and maintain one temporary street name sign assembly at each intersection before any structure on a new street can be opened for sales activities, customer visits or occupancy. The temporary street name sign assembly shall consist of a sufficient number of signs to identify both streets to traffic approaching from all directions. The city will install permanent street name signs after final grading and street improvements have been completed. Street names shall comply with uniform plan for street names adopted by the city. F. Street Improvement Districts Whenever any arterial lying within or abutting upon any subdivision requires extending, improving or widening, the city may establish a street improvement district, and the property lying within such subdivision shall be assessed for the cost of such improvement of the arterial and such assessment shall be calculated so as to reflect the share of cost to be borne by each parcel of land within the subdivision as that parcel benefits by such improvement SIDEWALKS, TRAILS, AND BICYCLE PATHS 904 A. All subdivisions shall provide an interconnected system of sidewalks that directly connect all lots to commercial centers, employment areas, designated parks and open spaces, and other uses. All lots shall directly abut a sidewalk. 901 From current (c) with cross-references added. 902 New provision. 903 New provisions. 904 From current with changes as noted. Aurora, CO Page 192

23 4.3. Subdivision Standards Open Spaces B. All subdivisions shall contain those trails and bicycle paths shown in the bike plan element of the Aurora Comprehensive Plan, the Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, other approved planning and design studies that identify trail connectivity needs, 905 or any previously approved development plan for the property. Such trails shall be constructed to applicable city standards and shall be dedicated to the city as part of the subdivision process, provided that any required dedications shall be roughly proportional to demands created by the proposed subdivision. C. Whenever cul-de-sac streets are created, one 10 ft. wide pedestrian access/public utility easement shall be provided, between the cul-de-sac head or street turnaround and the sidewalk system of the closest adjacent street or pedestrian sidewalk or pathway, unless the city engineer determines that public access in that location is not practicable due to site or topography constraints. The Director may reduce the required connectivity index if compliance is impracticable due to site or topography constraints OPEN SPACES 907 A. Parks and open spaces shall be planned, designed and constructed in compliance with the standards and specifications established by this article, the City Code, and adopted regulations including all standards and requirements set forth in the Park, Recreation, and Open Space Department Dedication and Development Criteria Manual. 1. Be integrated into and throughout the subdivision. 2. Be continuous and connected with one another and with open spaces in adjacent development whenever possible, and 3. Include trails that connect to pedestrian routes in the subdivision and to regional and city trail systems. B. A majority of required open space anticipated for use as active or developed parks should be located on flat, well-drained terrain outside the 100-year floodplain. Required open spaces that are anticipated to serve as trail corridors should be continuous with anticipated trail corridors on adjacent properties, whenever possible. C. Required open spaces not anticipated for use as active or developed parks should be located on prominent high points with significant views, or along significant and interesting geological features or wooded areas, or along significant drainages, whenever possible SCHOOL AND PARK LANDS 908 A. School Lands and Fees-in-Lieu 1. Location Sites designated or dedicated for schools should: Figure 4.3-1: Cul-de-Sac a. Be located at the intersection of a collector and local street for elementary school sites, and be located at the intersection of a collector and arterial street for middle and high school sites; 905 Reference to bicycle plan and other plans added. 906 New. 907 Current (e). 908 From current Aurora, CO Page 193

24 4.3. Subdivision Standards School and Park Lands b. Contain slopes of less than ten percent; c. Be centrally located for the population to be served; d. Be compact in shape, either rectangular or square; e. Not be located in a 100-year floodplain; f. Not be located near sources of loud noise; and g. Not contain regional stormwater detention facilities, wetlands, archaeological sites, significant stands of trees, or electrical transmission lines. 2. Amount Required Public land dedication shall be provided for public schools to serve the future residents of the subdivision. The dedication of such areas shall be as required by agreement between the school district and the property owner, if one has been approved for the property. The applicant shall provide a letter from the applicable school district that includes the district s current requirements for land value per acre, student yield ratio, and acres per child. 909 If land uses have changed, or no agreement exists for the subdivision, school land dedication based upon the number of students to be generated by the land use shall be required. Land dedicated for schools shall be net acreage, not counting land for streets, tracts, or pre-existing easements that would preclude use of the land. Land dedication shall occur at the time of subdivision platting. The amount of land that shall be dedicated shall equal the product of the "standard student yield ratio factor" from Table multiplied by the "acre per child standard" in Table Table Standard Student Yield Ratio Factor Per Dwelling Unit Dwelling Unit Type Elementary Middle High Total Single-family Multifamily low density Multifamily high density Table Standard Acres per Child Standard School Type Student Enrollment Acres Per Child Elementary Middle 1, High 1, Cash in Lieu of Land Dedication At the discretion of the school district, cash-in-lieu of land may be required. Land value will be based on $40,000 per acre, 911 unless the fair market value is otherwise determined by an MAI appraisal. Payment of cash-in-lieu shall occur at the time of plat approval. B. Park Lands and Fees-in-Lieu Requirement Public land shall be dedicated by the developer to provide for parks to serve the future residents of the development. The dedication of such areas shall be as required by an annexation agreement, if one has been approved for the property. If land uses change 909 Application requirement added. 910 Revised to apply to all single-family not just detached units. Includes single-family attached, townhouses, cottage homes, cohousing, and single-family live-work. 911 Staff is still reviewing this section to ensure it reflects current policy and standards. 912 The City Attorney s office is still reviewing this section. Aurora, CO Page 194

25 4.3. Subdivision Standards Entryway Feature from those approved at the time of annexation or no annexation agreement exists for the subdivision, park dedication based upon the number of residents of the new land uses as provided in this Section shall be required. Public land dedication for parks and open space purposes to be dedicated, by separate plat, at time of first adjacent subdivision plat. 2. Amount Required Table Standard Acres per Child Standard Facility Type Neighborhood Parks Community Parks Open space, other park uses and trails for lands located in Subarea B Small urban parks located in qualified urban centers, transitoriented developments, and infill development parcels Other Developments Assisted Living, Continuing Care Retirement, Nursing Home 3. Small Developments ENTRYWAY FEATURE Requirement 3 ac. per 1,000 residents 1.1 ac per 1,000 residents 7.8 ac per 1,000 residents Per Parks and Open Space Dedication Criteria Manual See Subsection 3 below Exempt For developments that are not large enough to generate a minimum of five acres for neighborhood parks and 40 acres for community parks, the city manager may at the manager's sole discretion, require cash-in-lieu of land dedication based upon the market value of zoned land with infrastructure in place. Cash-in-lieu of land shall only be used to provide park facilities for the residents generating the need for such parks. Cash-in-lieu payment shall occur at the time of first subdivision platting. Each subdivision containing over 25 residential lots (in all phases) shall have an entryway feature constructed predominantly of stone or masonry at one of its primary street entries. For neighborhoods containing less than 100 acres, the entryway feature shall be located on a parcel of land with minimum depth and width of 15 feet each, and shall be at least three feet in height. For neighborhoods containing between 100 and 200 acres, the entryway feature shall be located on a parcel of land with minimum depth and width of 20 feet each, and shall be at least five feet in height UTILITY EASEMENTS 914 A. All subdivisions shall include adequate easements to accommodate the construction, maintenance, and repair of all public streets, sidewalks, trails, water supply systems, wastewater systems, stormwater management systems, and erosion control facilities, as well as for all gas, electric, telecommunications, and other utilities required to provide each utility to each permanent, occupied structure in the subdivision. Easements shall not be required for any land that is dedicated to and accepted by the city. B. No permanent structure shall be constructed over any portion of a recorded easement. However, it shall be lawful upon the obtaining of a revocable license from the city to construct retaining walls and such other structures as may be approved by the city engineer that will not interfere in the intended use of the easement From current (d) with 25 lot trigger added. 914 Current Revised to clarify that this applies to permanent structures. Aurora, CO Page 195

26 4.3. Subdivision Standards Improvements Required IMPROVEMENTS REQUIRED A. Standards and Specifications All public improvements shall be constructed in compliance with the standards and specifications established by this article, the City Code and adopted regulations, including all design standards and requirements set forth in the Aurora Roadway Design and Construction Specifications and the City of Aurora Public Utility Improvement Rules and Regulations Regarding Standards and Specifications. 2. No subdivider shall be relieved of the duty to construct public improvements for the subdivision until all public improvements are constructed, approved and accepted by the city engineer. 3. The subdivider shall submit plans, profiles and specifications for the construction of all public improvements for which no specifications or standards are established by Aurora. Such plans, profiles and specifications shall be prepared and authenticated over the seal of a professional engineer, duly licensed to practice in Colorado. 4. A subdivider may, upon city approval, construct public improvements to standards higher than the city's specifications for the design and construction of roadways established by the city engineer. Before the city approves such higher standards, the subdivider shall submit maintenance plans relating to such public improvements. B. Water Supply/Fire Protection 917 All subdivisions shall include a water supply system designed in accordance with the Aurora Public Utility Improvements Rules and Regulations Regarding Standards and Specifications. The fire/life safety representative within the building division shall determine the number and location of fire hydrants to be provided and installed by the subdivider. C. Wastewater Systems 918 All subdivisions shall include a wastewater system designed in accordance with the City of Aurora Public Utility Improvements Rules and Regulations Regarding Standards and Specifications. D. Stormwater Management In addition to the 100-year floodplain, other lands subject to flooding or land that if developed or improved would cause improved areas within the city to be subject to flooding shall not be platted for residential occupancy or for any other use that may increase danger to health, life or property, or aggravate the flood hazard to surrounding properties. 2. All subdivisions shall include a stormwater management system designed in accordance with the City of Aurora Public Utility Improvements Rules and Regulations Regarding Standards and Specifications and the City of Aurora Storm Drainage Design and Technical Criteria. The stormwater management system shall provide adequate drainage and flood control as well as provide structural and/or nonstructural Best Management Practices for the control of stormwater quality, as required by the ASDDTC. 3. The stormwater management system in each subdivision shall be designed to integrate with required open space and landscaped areas as described in Section , in order to promote the use of natural systems to manage stormwater, and to reduce the 916 From current From current Water and Fire Department staff are still reviewing the water supply, fire protection, wastewater systems, and stormwater management sections. 918 From current From current , with cross-reference to landscaping standards added. Aurora, CO Page 196

27 4.3. Subdivision Standards Responsibility for Improvement Costs cost of construction and maintenance of pipes, culverts, and other hard infrastructure, to the greatest extent practicable. 920 E. Other Utilities 921 All subdivisions shall provide those additional utilities, and shall incorporate those additional utility designs, contained in Chapter 138 of the Aurora City Code RESPONSIBILITY FOR IMPROVEMENT COSTS A. Generally The subdivider shall be responsible for the costs of all streets, alleys, sidewalks, and other improvements required by this Section 4.3 unless the oversizing provisions of subsections B or C below apply, or unless the subdivider has entered into an agreement approved by the City Council providing for a different allocation of costs. 922 B. Street Oversizing In the event that the street construction standards of this Code require an applicant to construct all or part of a street along property that is not part of the subdivision application (for example, along property that separates the applicant's land from a street to which a connection is required), the city will use its best efforts to assist the applicant to recover that portion of the street construction costs that represent an unearned benefit conferred upon other landowners, under the following conditions: a. The city engineer shall determine the allocation of benefits between property owners benefiting from an oversized road, based on probable development densities and traffic generation from each property. b. The city may use any legal mechanism to recover reimbursement from later property owners benefiting from the oversized street, including subdivision improvements agreements, conditions on plat approval, conditions on building permit issuance, conditions on any development approval or permit, the collection of fees and charges, direct reimbursement agreements between property owners, or required participation in street districts. c. The city's obligation to use its best efforts to attempt to collect reimbursement from benefiting property owners shall terminate ten years after the acceptance of the oversized street by the city (or, in the case of a private street, ten years after the final approval of such street construction). d. The failure or inability of the city to obtain such reimbursement from benefiting property owners within such ten-year period shall not create any legal or financial liability for the city to repay or reimburse any such sums or any alleged damages related to the failure or inability to obtain reimbursement. 2. In the event that the city constructs all or part of a street along property that has not contributed to the construction of such street, the city shall have the same authority to attempt to collect reimbursement as it would have if the street had been constructed by a private party, and shall be authorized to retain any amounts collected in order to reimburse itself for street construction costs incurred. However, the city shall not be required to attempt to obtain reimbursement if, in the opinion of the city engineer, it would be inequitable, impracticable, or not in the City's best interests to do so. 920 New provision. 921 From current New provision to reflect current practice. 923 From current (e). Aurora, CO Page 197

28 4.3. Subdivision Standards Responsibility for Improvement Costs C. Reimbursement for Other Improvements When any subdivider constructs or installs an extension of a water transmission line, sewer interceptor line, street, or other public improvement through intervening undeveloped property to serve the subdivider's property, the entire cost of the improvement shall be the responsibility of such subdivider. 2. The City Council is authorized to enter into agreements to reimburse any subdivider that constructs or installs a public improvement through intervening undeveloped property. Such reimbursement shall be made solely from funds collected from the owner or owners of each parcel of land that abuts the improvement at the time such parcel develops within the city. The amount of the reimbursement to be paid shall not exceed the original cost of the improvement, plus reasonable interest, as agreed to by the city and the subdivider. To defray the costs of administering the reimbursement agreement, the city shall withhold a fee not to exceed 2½ percent of the amount of the reimbursement. 3. The city's obligation to reimburse shall be subject to the creation of an improvement reimbursement district, the development of the intervening property, the collection of funds from the owner or owners of such property, and the appropriation of such funds by the City Council. The term of each such reimbursement agreement shall be within the sole discretion of the City Council and, in any event, shall not exceed 20 years. 4. Each subdivider that enters into a reimbursement agreement with the city shall submit a written application to the city, on a form approved by the city, for the creation of an improvement reimbursement district. Such application shall be in a form approved by the city manager and shall include, at a minimum, the following information: 5. Within 60 days after receiving the subdivider's completed application, the City Council shall provide notice and conduct a public hearing in compliance with the procedures in Sections (Notice) and (Public Hearings) regarding the creation of an improvement reimbursement district and the assessment of public improvement costs to intervening undeveloped properties. 6. At the conclusion of the public hearing, the City Council may adopt an ordinance approving, conditionally approving, or denying the creation of an improvement reimbursement district and the assessment of public improvement costs to intervening undeveloped properties. 7. The city shall record a notice of a reimbursement obligation with the clerk and recorder of the county in which the property so obligated is located. The notice shall include a provision stating that at the time of development of the property, the city shall require the owner to pay the assessment for the described improvements at the time of issuance of a building permit. 8. In the event that the city extends public improvements, the city is authorized to receive reimbursement from intervening undeveloped properties that abut such improvements; provided that the city has followed the public hearing process outlined in this section. 9. The city may deduct from funds collected any costs or expenses that the city has incurred in repairing, correcting, or improving any defect that the subdivider who constructed or installed such improvement failed to correct during the applicable warranty period. 10. A building permit shall not be issued for the construction of any structure on the abutting, intervening property until payment of the front foot assessment is received by the city. 924 From current Subsections 6 through 11 were added since Module 2. Staff: If you want these provisions to apply to developments other than subdivisions, they should be moved to the Administration and Enforcement chapter otherwise they can stay here. Aurora, CO Page 198

29 4.4. Neighborhood Protection Standards Grading GRADING Nothing in this section shall be deemed to relieve any owner of property located within an improvement reimbursement district of any obligation imposed upon such owner by virtue of a valid annexation agreement with the city. No site grading shall occur on land included within any proposed subdivision prior to the issuance of a stormwater quality permit as required by the City Code MONUMENTS 926 Monuments shall be installed within subdivisions in accordance with the City of Aurora Subdivision Plat Checklist. 4.4 NEIGHBORHOOD PROTECTION STANDARDS INTENT This section includes standards to reduce potential negative impacts that may occur when nonresidential and multi-family districts abut lower-intensity residential districts APPLICABILITY After the effective date of this Code, these standards of this Section 4.4 apply: A. To each lot in a Mixed-Use or Special Purpose district that abuts an R-R, R-1, or R-2 district, or that abuts any lot in a PD district containing single-family detached or two-family dwelling units; and B. To each lot in an R-3 or R-4 district with building(s) three or more stories in height that abuts an R-R, R-1, or R-2 district, or that abuts any lot in a PD district containing single-family detached or two-family dwelling units. C. In this Section, lots in an R-R, R-1, or R-2 district, and lots in a PD district containing singlefamily detached or two-family dwelling units are referred to as Protected Lots BUILDING HEIGHT The maximum height of any portion of a primary structure shall not exceed 35 feet, and the maximum height of any accessory structure shall not exceed 24 feet: A. Within 50 feet of a Protected Lot in Subarea A, or B. Within 100 feet of a Protected Lot in Subareas B or C OUTDOOR LIGHTING HEIGHT All outdoor lighting shall meet all standards in Section (Outside Lighting), except that: A. The maximum height of any exterior pole mounted light or building mounted light shall not exceed 15 feet: 1. Within 50 feet of a Protected Lot in Subarea A, or 2. Within 100 feet of a Protected Lot in Subareas B or C. 925 From current (a). 926 From current New section. Aurora, CO Page 199

30 4.4. Neighborhood Protection Standards Service Areas and Drive-Through Lanes B. All exterior lighting not necessary to illuminate entrances, parking lots and walkways for public safety shall be turned off between 11:00 pm and 7:00 am SERVICE AREAS AND DRIVE-THROUGH LANES A. No service area containing outdoor garbage or recycling containers or truck loading/unloading areas may be located: 1. Within 10 feet of a Protected Lot in Subarea A, or 2. Within 20 feet of a Protected Lot in Subareas B or C. B. No drive-through lane may be located a between a permitted primary structure and the boundary with any Protected Lot. C. No automobile entry or exit driveway may be located within 30 feet of a Protected Lot in Subareas B and C SETBACKS 928 A. In Subarea A Primary structures on any lot abutting the side or rear lot line of a Protected Lot shall be set back from those lot lines a distance equal to the required primary building setback from that lot line on the Protected Lot. B. In Subareas B and C Primary structures on any lot abutting the side or rear lot line of a Protected Lot shall be set back from those lot lines a distance equal to the greater of: 1. The required primary building setback from that lot line on the Protected Lot; or feet. [Insert illustrations] BUFFERING AND SCREENING A. In Subarea A Buffering of the Protected Lots meeting one of the following options is required: 1. Option 1. A wall or fence at least five feet in height with a six-foot wide planting strip on the side of the fence facing away from the Protected Lots. Walls and fences greater than 50 feet in length must be horizontally articulated with an offset or the use of a column or pier at least once every 50 horizontal feet; OR 2. Option 2. A planting strip of at least ten feet in width from the property line that includes the following elements per 100 lineal feet: Four shade trees, three understory trees, and 40 shrubs. 928 Based on current (G), revised to include 20-foot minimum in Subareas B and C. Aurora, CO Page 200

31 Setback Line Property Line Article : Development Standards 4.4. Neighborhood Protection Standards Connections Protected Area B. In Subareas B and C Buffering of the Protected Lots meeting one of the following options is required: 1. Option 1: A wall or fence at least five feet in height with a 12-foot planting strip on the side of the fence facing away from the Protected Lots. Walls and fences greater than 50 feet in length must be horizontally articulated with an offset or the use of a column or pier; at least once every 50 horizontal feet; OR 2. Option 2: A planting strip of at least twenty feet in depth that includes the following elements per 100 lineal feet: Five shade trees, four understory trees, and 30 shrubs. C. In All Subareas CONNECTIONS NOISE If located outside a primary or covered accessory structure, garbage storage areas shall be screened from view from the Protected District. In order to reduce the travel distance necessary for neighborhood residents to use nearby retail and commercial uses, all new mixed use or commercial developments with a total land area larger than four acres shall provide at least one linkage to the Protected Neighborhood area through a gate or pedestrian path at least five feet in width. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section E or Chapter (Unnecessary noise; disturbing the peace), the noise level measured at the property line of each Protected Lot must not exceed 55 decibels (dba) from 7:00 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. of the same day, and may not exceed 45 dba from 9:00 p.m. until 7:00 a.m. of the next day From current Section A Aurora, CO Page 201

32 4.5. Lot Access and Connectivity Intent 4.5 LOT ACCESS AND CONNECTIVITY INTENT The following standards for subdivision and site design a are intended to promote safe and convenient vehicle, bicycle, wheelchair, and pedestrian connectivity between individual development sites, trails, sidewalks, transit stations, and convenience shopping areas in order to encourage travel by bicycles, transit, or walking as an alternative to automobile trips, to reduce the frequency and shorten the distance of automobile trips, to provide multiple routes to many destinations, and to implement the adopted Comprehensive Plan goals for connectivity. Each development shall accommodate safe and convenient movement for all modes of transportation throughout the development and to surrounding areas 930 as well as create an efficient automobile circulation system that avoids the creation of large, isolated tracts without routes for traffic. 931 Access to sites shall be consolidated wherever possible with adjacent properties to minimize curb cuts and access shall be located as to not disrupt existing adjacent residential areas ACCESS AND CONNECTIVITY IN SUBDIVISION PLATS 932 New subdivisions shall meet the following standards to provide through connectivity and mobility, promote traffic calming on both local streets and adjacent collector and arterials streets, and to promote clear and efficient access for emergency vehicles. A. Major Roads 1. Each subdivision in Subareas B and C containing one section (640 acres) of contiguous land or more shall reserve or dedicate an arterial street right-of-way along each section line, and shall reserve or dedicate at least one major collector street right-of-way to provide a continuous northsouth through connection between the eastwest section line street alignments, and at least one major collector street right-of-way to provide a continuous east-west through connection between the north-south section line street alignments. 2. In addition to the requirement in subsection 1 above, each subdivision in Subareas B and C containing one quarter-section (160 acres) of contiguous land or more shall reserve or Figure 4.5-1: Major Road Connectivity dedicate at least one major collector or collector street right-of-way to provide a continuous north-south through connection between each east-west major collector street alignment required by subsection 1 above, and shall reserve or dedicate at least one major collector or collector street right-of-way to provide a continuous east-west through connection between each north-south major collector street alignment required by subsection 1 above. B. Local Wayfinding 930 Article 15, Division 4, Section A Article 11, Division?, Section A. this standard was split into two standards: b and c. 932 Strengthens existing connectivity requirements as noted. City Attorneys are reviewing this section in light of the Nollan, Dolan, and Koontz decisions. Suggested contextual mapping was not included, because that is an application requirement rather than a substantive standard. Unified Development Ordinance, Modules 1, 2 and 3 Figure 4.5-2: Wayfinding Public Draft Connectivity October 2016 Aurora, CO Page 202

33 4.5. Lot Access and Connectivity Access and Connectivity on Individual Platted Lots 1. In addition to the requirement of subsections 1 and 2 above, each subdivision in Subsection B and C shall organize all local streets so that each lot may be accessed by travelling over no more than two (2) local streets after departing from the grid of arterial, major collector, and collector streets required by subsections 1 and 2 above. C. Adjacent Land Where adjacent land has been subdivided with stub streets ending adjacent to a new subdivision, or with a local street ending at a street dividing the new subdivision the new subdivision streets shall be designed to align the streets in the adjacent subdivision in order to allow planned through circulation between the two adjacent subdivisions. 2. Where adjacent land has not been platted, residential subdivisions shall be designed so that at least one local street is constructed as a stub street intended as a future through connection to the adjacent parcel within each 1,000 feet of boundary length. D. Connectivity Index 934 Each phase of a subdivision that contains more than 10 acres of land and that contains more than one development parcel shall achieve a connectivity index score of 1.65 or less. A connectivity index is calculated by dividing the number of links in the proposed subdivision phase by the number of nodes in the same subdivision. The Director may reduce the required connectivity index if compliance is impracticable due to site or topography constraints. An example in which there are 36 links (circles) and 21 nodes (stars) is shown in Figure Figure 4.5-3: Connectivity Index update graphic ACCESS AND CONNECTIVITY ON INDIVIDUAL PLATTED LOTS The following standards apply the design and layout of individual lots that are part of an approved subdivision. A. Mixed Use and Special Purpose Districts 1. Vehicle Access 933 New provision requested by staff. 934 New provision requested by staff. Aurora, CO Page 203

34 4.5. Lot Access and Connectivity Access and Connectivity on Individual Platted Lots Access to Mixed Use and Special Purpose District lots located on arterial streets shall provide site access meeting the requirements of Table and Figure below. 935 Table Mixed Use and Special District Access from Arterials A B C D E F Access points shall use flared or channelized intersections and be oriented at right angles to the street. Curb cuts shall be located a minimum of 200 feet from each other and no more than the required number of curb cuts shall be used. For redevelopment sites, existing curb cuts may be used if approved by the Department of Public Works. No entrance or exit is permitted to be located less than 50 feet from any intersecting street right-of-way. No entrance or exit is permitted to be located nearer than 10 feet from an adjacent property line, except where it is possible to provide one access point to serve the adjacent property on the other side of that property line. Primary circulation and access shall be oriented toward predominantly non-single-family residential streets. If necessary, secondary and emergency access may be provided on such streets. 936 Private full movement driveways giving access to development sites shall be aligned across arterial, collector and local streets to contribute to circulation efficiency. 937 \ Figure Mixed-Use and Special Purpose Districts Access and Connectivity 2. Vehicle Connectivity 938 Internal streets or driveways shall be made between multiple buildings and parking areas on a single lot or development to break up large parcels into smaller, internal blocks, and to avoid the need to use public boundary streets to move between different buildings or areas of the development site. Such connections shall: a. Create internal blocks for which the perimeter of each block created by internal streets and external streets is no greater than 2,640 feet, or not greater than 1,600 feet for properties within ½ mile of an activity center or transit station. b. Be a minimum of 18 feet wide. 935 Section A, revised for clarity and put into table for better readability. 936 Section B, revised for clarity. 937 Section B, revised for clarity. 938 Section B.7/8, combined and revised for clarity. Aurora, CO Page 204

35 4.5. Lot Access and Connectivity Access and Connectivity on Individual Platted Lots c. Accommodate two-way traffic. B. Additional Requirements for I-1 and I-2 Districts 1. Where an I-1 or I-2 district occurs along an arterial street frontage and residential use areas are located across the arterial street, entries serving the I-1 or I-2 district shall be placed out of alignment with residential use area entries to keep heavy commercial traffic out of residential neighborhoods Curb cuts for truck access into an I-1 or I-2 district shall not be permitted on streets that separate R-1 or R-2 residential zone districts from the industrial zone district. 940 C. Residential Districts 1. Vehicle Access in General Access from arterial streets to into a residential development in a Residential district shall meet the requirements of Table and Figure below. 941 Table Residential District Access Standards A B C D E F All residential units and associated parking spaces shall have direct vehicular access from a public street or alley or private street-like drive. Vehicular access shall be from residential or side streets only, except that R-4 districts may have curb cuts from an arterial. Vehicular access to multifamily developments shall be oriented toward non-residential streets over single-family neighborhood streets. Vehicle access to residential lots from streets shall be located a minimum of 5 feet from each side property line. 942 Access driveways to residential development areas shall be a minimum of 23 feet and maximum of 30 feet in width. 943 Curb cuts within a single property shall be minimized. 939 Section E, revised to apply to industrial districts. 940 Section E; provisions for P&Z adjustments will be included in administration and enforcement chapter. 941 Section B, revised for clarity. 942 New provisions 943 Access driveway width minimum revised to 23 feet to be consistent with fire lane easement width requirements. Aurora, CO Page 205

36 4.5. Lot Access and Connectivity Access and Connectivity on Individual Platted Lots Figure Residential Districts Access Diagram 2. Single-Family Residential Districts Access a. Private Street-Like Drives Indirect vehicular access from single-family detached dwellings to public streets may be provided by means of a private street-like drive, also referred to as a motor court or loop lane, provided the standards in Table 4.5-3, as illustrated in Figures and 4.5-8, are met. 944 Table Private Street-Like Drive Design Standards 945 A Dwelling units 10 dwelling units maximum to be served by a private street-like drive B Lane width 20 feet minimum; shall be dedicated as a fire lane easement C Lane length 250 feet maximum D Paving If less than 30 feet wide must use concrete If 30 feet wide or more, may use asphalt with full concrete curb and gutters. E Driveway length 20 feet (as measured between the front of the garage or carport and the closest edge of the shared lane or sidewalk, if one exists) F Maintenance: Shall be dedicated to a property owners association with responsibility for maintaining the shared lane and common area, and with authority to enforce payment of dues maintenance of the private street-like drive. The owners association shall be created and the street-like drive, as well as any common areas encircled by a loop lane, shall be dedicated to the association before a certificate of occupancy shall be issued for any dwelling unit using the street-like drive. G Fire Safety Each private street-like drive with a shared driveway longer than 100 feet from the public street shall have a fire hydrant adjacent to the shared driveway at a point determined by the Fire/Life Safety group within the Building Division. 944 New introductory text. 945 Section A. and B; condensed into a table with merged and simplified content. Aurora, CO Page 206

37 4.5. Lot Access and Connectivity Access and Connectivity on Individual Platted Lots Figure Private Street-Like Drive Standards Diagram Aurora, CO Page 207

38 4.5. Lot Access and Connectivity Access and Connectivity on Individual Platted Lots Figure Loop Lane Standards Diagram Table Private Driveway Design Standards 946 A B C D E G H Driveway length: Front yard coverage Side yard coverage Rear yard coverage (no alley) Rear yard coverage (with alley) Guest parking allowances Slope Less than 10 feet or more than 20 feet, as measured from back of walk or drive aisle. Driveways or parking surfaces in front yards shall not exceed 40 percent of total front yard area. For wedge-shaped lots, the maximum coverage is 50 percent. Driveways or parking surfaces in side yards shall not exceed 10 feet in width. Side-loaded garages require a minimum back-out dimension of 25 feet. Driveways or parking surfaces shall not exceed 25 percent of total rear yard area or 750 sq. ft., whichever is less. Driveways or parking surfaces located in rear yard with purpose of serving alley-loaded (rear attached or detached) garages shall not exceed 50 percent of total rear yard area. Guest parking may be provided in private driveways (tandem parking) leading to individual buildings, provided that such vehicles do not encroach on public or private streets or sidewalks. Portions of driveways supplying required parking shall not exceed 8 % slope. 946 Section B. and Section B. Aurora, CO Page 208

39 4.5. Lot Access and Connectivity Access and Connectivity on Individual Platted Lots b. Individual Residential Driveways i. Standards Where vehicle access to single-family detached or two-family residential dwelling structures is provided by individual driveways, those driveways shall meet the standards in Table ii. Exceptions to single family driveway standards 947 a. Parking surfaces lawfully existing on July 21, 2012 may continue to exist as lawful nonconforming structures, subject to City regulations that prohibit enlarging or increasing the area of the parking surface. b. Driveways or parking surfaces abutting unpaved public rights-of-way in open, natural areas, and agricultural districts, are not required to be of concrete, asphalt, or brick or stone pavers. c. Driveways or parking surfaces abutting unpaved streets in residential zones are not required to be of concrete, asphalt, or brick or stone pavers. However, driveways or parking surfaces shall conform with standards for construction, placement, materials, drainage, and containment adopted by the Director of Public Works. D. Pedestrian Access and Connectivity 1. Intent These standards require that safe and convenient pedestrian access be provided to points within a development and to nearby uses and amenities in order to encourage walking and reduce the frequency and number of automobile trips. 2. Mixed Use and Multifamily Districts Each lot shall provide the following pedestrian connections, as applicable: a. Required Connections are shown in Table Table Required Pedestrian Connections From Main Entry to Public Sidewalk Provide a safe, convenient, and accessible pedestrian connection from the main entrance of a building to a public sidewalk or internal walkway that connects to a public sidewalk Section C. 948 Section B.2, revised for consolidation and added text for new concepts. Aurora, CO Page 209

40 4.5. Lot Access and Connectivity Access and Connectivity on Individual Platted Lots To Adjoining Streets Provide pedestrian connections between internal and perimeter sidewalks at a maximum of 1,320 feet along the perimeter street (i.e. pedestrians along the perimeter sidewalks shall be able to find a sidewalk connection into the internal sidewalk system without walking more than 1,320 feet along the perimeter of such a site.) 949 Between Multiple Buildings on a Site All developments containing more than one building shall provide walkways between the principal entrances of buildings. 950 To Adjacent Development Sidewalks and walkways serving a site shall align and connect with any sidewalks on adjacent properties that extend to the boundary of such properties. 951 b. Standards for Connections Table Safe Pedestrian Crossing Options Change in Paving Materials 949 Section B.1, revised to relate to pedestrian network and B.2.a, revised for organization. 950 Section C. 951 Section B.2.a,revised for consolidation. Aurora, CO Page 210

41 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Intent Standards for connections are shown in Table i. Walkways shall be a minimum of five feet wide and include pedestrian-scaled lighting at a minimum of 50 feet on center. ii. Mixed use and multifamily lots within one-quarter mile of a light rail transit station shall include a direct pedestrian connection to the station, if practicable, or to a public sidewalk leading to the station. Signage directing pedestrians to the nearest transit station shall be provided on-site. iii. When a lot abuts public open space that includes existing or planned trails, a direct pedestrian connection from the development to the existing or planned trail shall be provided. iv. At each point where a sidewalk must cross a parking lot or internal street or driveway to make a required connection, it shall be clearly marked by using one of the methods shown in Table 4.5-6, except that raised crosswalks are prohibited within a fire lane easement. 952 E. Americans with Disabilities Act 953 All places of public accommodation, as defined in the federal Americans with Disabilities Act (42 U.S.C et. seq.) shall comply with the requirements of that act concerning on-site circulation and access. 4.6 PARKING, LOADING, AND STACKING INTENT 954 Change in Paving Color Raised Crosswalks The intent of this Section 4.6 is to require new development and significant redevelopment to provide adequate off-street parking spaces to avoid traffic congestion, to avoid overloaded parking on neighborhood streets, and to improve the visual appeal of the city by regulating the placement, use, and design of parking lots and garages. 952 Section B.1, revised to be more specific and to prohibit raised crosswalks in fire lane easements. 953 New, to reflect current practice. 954 New. Aurora, CO Page 211

42 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Applicability APPLICABILITY 955 A. Applicability 956 Unless otherwise stated in this UDO, the requirements in this Section 4.6 shall apply to all uses in all districts. No site plan shall be approved and no permit for the erection or occupancy of a building or structure shall be issued unless the use conforms with the parking supply requirements of this section or a variance or administrative adjustment for any differences from this Section 4.6 has been issued.. B. Exemptions No off street parking is required for the following. a. The Core Sub-District of the UC-TOD district; b. MU-C and MU-N districts in Subarea A; c. Lots in any district with an area equal to or less than 5,000 square feet and containing a structure other than single-family attached or single-family detached dwellings. 958 d. Buildings in any Mixed-Use or Special Purpose district with a non-residential primary use and less than 10,000 square feet of building gross floor area. 2. If parking is provided in any of those districts, lots, or areas listed in subsection B.1 above: a. Those lots and facilities must comply with all other provisions of this Section 4.6. b. For properties located in the Core Sub-District of the UC-TOD district, i. At least 90 percent of provided parking shall be provided in parking garages rather than surface parking lots; or ii. If at least 80 percent of each street-facing ground floor facade or each parking garage is occupied by a permitted or conditional use other than parking, at least 80 percent of provided parking shall be provided in parking garages. 959 C. Expansions Any expansion of the gross floor area of an existing land use or structure by more than 25 percent in Subarea A, or by more than 15 percent in Subareas B and C, shall provide additional parking for the expansion areas, including accessible parking, as required by Table D. Change in Permitted Use Any change of a permitted or approved conditional use that results in an increase in required parking of more than 25 percent in Subarea A, or by more than 15 percent in Subareas B and C, shall provide additional parking, including accessible parking, as required in Table The provisions of subsection D.1 shall not apply to any change of use in a multi-tenant commercial, mixed use, or industrial building larger than 50,000 square feet in gross floor area unless the Director determines that the change of use is likely to create a significant increase in on-street parking in any surrounding residential neighborhood From Eliminated purposes from (A), (A), and provision for conformance with Landscaping Standards ( (D)). 956 Previously (B), Applicability. Simplified for clarity. 957 Replaces current (C), Non-conforming parking. 958 New provision to encourage infill and redevelopment of smaller lots. 959 New provision. 960 Replaces current , Changes to parking plan. 961 New provision. Aurora, CO Page 212

43 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Required Off-Street Parking E. Reductions of Existing Parking 962 Off-street parking or loading space provided prior to the effective date of this UDO shall not be permanently reduced in a way that would bring the property out of conformance with this Section 4.6 or would increase the degree of any existing nonconforming with the provisions of this Section 4.6. F. Parking for Unlisted Uses 963 For any use not specifically mentioned in Table 4.6-1, the parking provisions for a similar use, as determined by the Director, shall apply. For a new use where the Director determines that a similar parking rate is not stated in this UDO, the Director may establish a minimum m parking requirement based on a parking study, or by a parking reference guide in general use, or after consultation with other City officials regarding potential parking needs, or by a combination or those methods REQUIRED OFF-STREET PARKING 964 A. Calculation Demand 966 When calculating the required parking spaces in this section results in a fractional parking space, the fraction shall be rounded up to the nearest whole number. 2. Supply 967 a. All parking spaces that meet the minimum size requirements of this Code and are located on the same property as the use they serve shall count towards required parking supply. Off-site spaces shall also count towards parking supply in those locations where off-site spaces are permitted by this Code. b. Required resident parking for single-family attached dwellings or multifamily dwellings may be provided by assigning non-tandem spaces on a private street, motor court, or drive lane directly abutting the dwelling unit s lot, or in a garage or carport. c. Required guest parking for residential uses may be provided in parking spaces on a residential driveway leading exclusively to a dwelling unit s private garage; or along a public street frontage directly abutting the dwelling unit s lot; or within 200 feet of the unit s entrance on a private street, motor court, loop lane, parking lot, or garage. B. Use and Place Restrictions No parking area shall be used for the sale, storage, repair, dismantling, or servicing of any vehicles, equipment, materials, or supplies. 2. Parking of any vehicle on lawn areas in front or side yards, on areas set aside for landscaping, or on any other area not surfaced for off-street parking as provided in this Code is prohibited. 962 Reworded for clarity (A), revised for clarity. 964 Current parking standards from current and Tables Also includes Table 7-11 from the TOD district from current The minimum supply provision for properties in the TOD prior to rail transit service was eliminated. Each use from the Permitted Use Table in Section 3.2 is included in this new parking table. A gray shaded cell in the current standard column indicates that there are not currently parking standards for that use. The middle column will be deleted prior to adoption of the UDO. Changes from current standards are indicated in the table and not footnoted. 965 Several demand calculation types from current (C) were removed based on proposed changes. Calculations based on number of employees and number of bedrooms were removed since those provisions are eliminated from the table. Definition of gross floor area will be in the definitions article. 966 First half of current (C)4. Remainder on ignoring fractional shared parking reduction was deleted (E). Simplified and revised for clarity. Requirement for on-site location deleted because off-site locations are sometimes permitted. Provision on handicapped spaces relocated to its own section. 968 From current (A), (B), and (C), revised for clarity. Text simplified. Aurora, CO Page 213

44 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Required Off-Street Parking 3. The following vehicles shall not be parked or stored on a residentially zoned lot, unless the vehicle is being used to render services such as deliveries, pickups, or construction activity to property within 200 feet of where the vehicle is parked: a. Commercial truck, trailer or construction vehicle, or bus exceeding 7,000 pounds empty weight; or b. Semi-truck tractor and/or trailer 4. Travel trailers, tent trailers, pick-up campers or coaches, and motorized dwellings or vans shall not be used as a dwelling unit or for the conduct of business unless they are located in a mobile home park or campground: C. Minimum Required Parking Unless otherwise provided in this UDO, off-street parking shall be provided in the amounts shown in Table 4.6-2, Required Off-Street Parking below. Aurora, CO Page 214

45 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Required Off-Street Parking Table Required Off-Street Parking Class New Category 0 Homeless shelter Cemetery Park and open space Agriculture Horse stable Riding academy Urban agriculture Above ground bulk storage of flammable gasses Bulk commodity storage facility Outdoor storage as a principal use Storage, distribution, and warehousing Mining Oil and gas facility Intermodal cargo transfer yard Locomotive and railcar yard and repair facility Motor freight terminal Railroad track Transit facility Electric power generator station Solar collector as a primary use Telecom facility, freestanding Telecom facility, freestanding stealth Utility, major Utility, minor Wind energy system, large Motor vehicle towing, salvage, and dismantling Parking garage as primary use Parking lot as primary use Bio-medical waste treatment facility Recycling collection facility Sewage disposal plant Solid waste transfer facility Aboveground bulk storage of flammable liquids and gasses Ambulance service Christmas tree sales Drive-up or drive-through facility Dwelling unit, accessory Dwelling, short-term rental Electric vehicle charging facility Home occupation Mining or mineral extraction as an interim use Motor vehicle fuel dispensing facility, accessory Parking facility, accessory Park and open space Radio and television antenna tower Recycling collection facility Roadside sales stand Rodeo practice arena Scientific, environmental, or interpretive educational use Solar collector, accessory Telecom facility, building- mounted Temporary event or sales Temporary outdoor food or merchandise stand Urban agriculture, accessory Wholesale, accessory Wind energy system, small ground-mounted Wind energy system, small roof-mounted Unlisted accessory or temporary use Required Parking No Parking Requirement sf = square feet gfa = gross floor area Aurora, CO Page 215

46 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Required Off-Street Parking Table Required Off-Street Parking Class New Category Required Parking sf = square feet gfa = gross floor area 1 2 Meeting, banquet, and conference facility; Kennel; Catering service; Heavy manufacturing; Light manufacturing; Other motor vehicle, trailer, boat, or manufactured home sales or rental Dwelling, single-family detached (Subarea A); Dwelling, two-family (duplex) (Subarea A); Dwelling, single-family attached (Townhouse) (Subarea A); Dwelling, live/work (Subarea A); Manufactured housing (Subarea A) Dwelling, co-housing development; Dwelling, cottage development; Dwelling, multifamily Assisted living facility; Continuing care retirement Dormitory, fraternity, or sorority house Group home Nursing home Rooming house; Hotel or motel Adult or child day care center Civic or cultural facility; Club, lodge, and service organization; Place of worship Crematorium Mortuary School, elementary and secondary Recreational vehicle park Theater Home building supplies Self-storage facility Indoor shooting range Bed and breakfast Plant and tree nursery and greenhouse Adult or child day care home (accessory use) Caretaker s residence (accessory use) Hospital; Brewery, distillery, or winery; Art studio or workshop; Retail marijuana cultivation, product manufacturing, and testing facility; Sale at wholesale; Automobile and light truck sales and rental; Motor vehicle body shop and painting; Motor vehicle indoor showroom or broker; Motor vehicle repair and service 1 space per 1,000 sf gfa 1 space per dwelling unit. For manufactured housing, one additional space per 5 dwelling units for guest parking. For live/work, additional parking requirements apply to non-dwelling space as indicated in this Table space per dwelling unit. For multifamily, one additional space per 5 dwelling units for guest parking. 1 space per 3 habitable units 1 space per person of design capacity 1 space per 2 persons of design capacity. Group homes occupying a structure previously constructed for another residential use shall have the same parking requirements as the previous residential use. 1 space per 5 patient beds 1 space per habitable unit 1 space per 10 persons care capacity 1 space per 1,000 sf gfa in main auditorium; or 1 space per 6 seats in main auditorium; or 2 spaces per 1,000 sf gfa, whichever is greater 1 space per 50 sf floor space in slumber rooms, parlors, or individual funeral service rooms 1 space per 50 sf floor space in slumber rooms, parlors, or individual funeral service rooms 1 space per 8 seats in the main auditorium or 2 spaces per classroom, whichever is greater 1 space per designated camping / RV spot 1 space per 4 seats design capacity in Subarea A; 1 space per 3 seats design capacity in Subareas B and C 1 space per 1,000 sf gfa plus 1 space per 2,500 sf of outdoor display or storage area 1 space per 50 storage units 1 space per firing lane 1 space for manager plus 1 space per guest room 1 space per 2,500 sf gfa used for outdoor display and storage 1 space per 5 persons care capacity 1 space 2 spaces per 1,000 sf gfa Aurora, CO Page 216

47 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Required Off-Street Parking Table Required Off-Street Parking Class New Category Dwelling, single-family detached (Subareas B and C); Dwelling, two-family (duplex) (Subareas B and C); Dwelling, single-family attached (Townhouse) (Subareas B and C); Dwelling, live/work (Subareas B and C); Manufactured housing (Subareas B and C) Higher education institution Temporary office Veterinary clinic and hospital; Office (Subarea A); Office, flex; Indoor recreation and entertainment; Pari-mutuel wagering facility; Pawnbroker; Personal service, large; Personal service, small; Retail sales, large (greater than 200,000 sf) Retail sales, small (Subarea A); Retail marijuana store; Outdoor recreation and entertainment Equipment rental and repair Office (Subareas B and C); Retail sales, large (between 15,000 and 200,000 sf); Retail sales, small (Subareas B and C); Motor vehicle fuel dispensing station (Subarea A) Private golf course, tennis club, and country club Medical and dental clinic; Motor vehicle fuel dispensing station (Subareas B and C); Sexually-oriented business Bar and tavern (Subarea A); Nightclub (Subarea A); Restaurant (Subarea A) Brewpub Bar and tavern (Subareas B and C); Nightclub (Subareas B and C); Restaurant (Subareas B and C) Required Parking sf = square feet gfa = gross floor area 2 space per dwelling unit. For manufactured housing, one additional space per 5 dwelling units for guest parking. For live/work, additional parking requirements apply to non-dwelling space as indicated in this Table spaces per 1,000 sf office, research, and library area plus 1 space per 125 sf in largest assembly areas. 2 spaces 2.5 spaces per 1,000 sf gfa For office uses: In the MU-C, MU-OA pedestrian subdistrict, UC- R,MU-FB, and MU-TOD districts: Maximum 4 spaces per 1,000 sf gfa for primary buildings with more than 100,000 sf gfa. 2.5 spaces per 1,000 sf gfa plus 1.5 spaces per 10,000 sf outdoor recreation and entertainment area 2.5 spaces per 1,000 sf gfa plus 1 space per 5,000 sf outdoor display or storage area 3 spaces per 1,000 sf gfa (fuel pumps do not count toward minimum parking requirement in any Subarea) For office uses: In the MU-C, MU-OA pedestrian subdistrict, UC- R, MU-FB, and MU-TOD districts: Maximum 4 spaces per 1,000 sf gfa for primary buildings with more than 100,000 sf gfa. 3 spaces per hole or 1 space per 400 sf of clubhouse space, whichever is greater 4 spaces per 1,000 sf gfa (fuel pumps do not count toward minimum parking requirement in any Subarea) 5 spaces per 1,000 sf gfa 5 spaces per 1,000 sf of dining and tasting area 6 spaces per 1,000 sf gfa Aircraft hangar and aircraft maintenance facility; Airport Determined by airport management Motor vehicle wash See stacking requirement in Table D. Parking Maximums Parking maximums apply to surface parking lots, not to spaces provided in parking garages. 969 New standards. Aurora, CO Page 217

48 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Required Off-Street Parking 2. Except for development in the MU-TOD District, additional parking up to 20 percent over the maximum parking requirement may be approved by the Director if the Director determines that additional surface parking may be necessary due to unusual site or use characteristics, and provided that the additional parking area is paved with an approved alternative surfacing material meeting the requirements of Section B. E. Accessible Parking 970 Within the requirements of Table Required Off-Street Parking (and not in addition to those requirements), accessible parking shall be provided for all multifamily and nonresidential uses as required the International Building Code, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Accessibility Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities and Colorado Revised Statutes, as amended. F. Bicycle Parking Bicycle Parking Spaces Required a. Multifamily and non-residential development in Subarea A shall provide bicycle parking spaces equal to five percent of required automobile parking spaces, and multi-family and non-residential development in Subareas B and C, shall provide bicycle parking spaces equal to three percent of the required automobile parking spaces. b. The requirements of Subsection F.1 above also apply to the non-residential component of each mixed-use development. c. Each inverted-u bicycle rack counts as two bicycle parking spaces. d. Multi-family development shall provide one bicycle parking space per five dwelling units in Subarea A and one bicycle parking space per 10 dwelling units in Subareas B and C. 2. Design Bicycle parking facilities shall: 972 a. Be located in convenient, highly visible, well-lighted areas that do not interfere with pedestrian movements. At least 10 percent 973 of required bicycle parking spaces shall be located within 100 feet of the primary building entrance; b. Provide for storage and locking of bicycles, either in lockers or racks that are securely anchored and resistant to rust, hammers, and saws; and c. Be designed to support the bicycle in an upright position and so that both the bicycle frame and wheels may be locked by the user using a U-shaped lock or a chain/cable and lock. 970 Previously , revised for simplicity and to prevent any compliance issues with future changes to ADA and (D)3, revised for clarity, and with requirements increased and now applying to all new developments. 972 Simplified to remove compatibility requirements and detailed design requirements, which are difficult to enforce. Requirement for 30 inch separation and related drawing were deleted, since many other designs are acceptable. 973 Minimum 10 bicycle parking space requirement was deleted. Aurora, CO Page 218

49 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Parking Alternatives PARKING ALTERNATIVES 974 A. Proximity to Transit 975 The minimum number of off-street parking spaces required new development or redevelopment may be reduced by 30 percent if the proposed development or redevelopment is located within ¼ mile of any Regional Transportation District (RTD), or other publicly authorized transit agency bus or transit stop with a peak frequency of 15 minutes or better. No development approved with this parking reduction shall be considered nonconforming if the bus or transit line is later relocated, or if ridership falls below four busses per hour, and the remaining number of parking spaces provided for that use does not meet the minimum requirements of Table Required Off-Street Parking. B. Credit for Shared Vehicle, Carpool, or Vanpool Spaces 976 For each shared vehicle, carpool, or vanpool space provided, the minimum number of required off-street parking spaces may be reduced by four. Each shared vehicle, carpool, or vanpool space shall count toward the minimum number of required parking spaces. C. Credit for Electric Vehicle Charging Stations 977 For each electric vehicle charging station provided, the minimum number of required offstreet parking spaces may be reduced by two. Each charging station counts toward the minimum number of required parking spaces. D. Credit for Bicycle Parking 978 The number of required motor vehicle parking spaces may be reduced at a ratio of one motor vehicle parking space for each two bicycle parking spaces provided above the minimum bicycle parking requirements, up to a maximum reduction of five percent of the required motor vehicle parking spaces. E. Credit for Public Parking 979 The Director may, at his or her discretion, allow for a reduction or elimination of parking requirements if the applicant can demonstrate that adequate spaces are available in a nearby public parking lot or structure, and that the reduction or elimination of parking requirements will not result in excessive traffic congestion or on-street parking in any nearby residential zone district. For the purposes of this provision, on-street parking shall not constitute a nearby public parking area. F. Credit for On-Street Parking 980 In Subarea A, and the Mixed-Use and Special Purpose districts in Subareas B and C, any onstreet parking located directly in front of the subject property may be counted towards on-site parking requirements. Only those street parking spaces for which at least one-half the length of the parking space falls between imaginary lines extending from the corners of the front lot line perpendicularly into the street right-of-way may be counted. Each on-street parking space may only be counted once towards the parking requirements of the adjacent lot, regardless of the number of individual buildings or tenants on the lot. 974 Parking reduction waivers from current not carried forward. A new administrative adjustment procedure will be introduced in Module 3 that applies to various development and dimensional standards, rather than having a unique set of waiver/adjustment procedures for parking. 975 New provision to promote infill and redevelopment and to allow for flexible standards near major transit corridors and connections. 976 New standard. 977 New standard. 978 Replaces (C). 979 Replaces section that allowed for reduced parking in the City Center district. That district was eliminated, but the standards are carried forward and applied more broadly through the development standards chapter. 980 Replaces current (E) for on-street parking in the TOD district, and is applied more broadly. The current TOD standard limits on-street parking to only adjacent areas, and must be located on the same side of the street. Aurora, CO Page 219

50 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Parking Design and Location G. Shared Parking Where two or more uses listed in Table (Permitted Use Table) share a parking lot or structure, the total off-street parking requirement for those uses may be reduced by the factors shown in Table 4.6-3, below. 982 To calculate the shared parking reduction, add the requirements for each use category, then divide the sum by the factor indicated in Table Table Shared Parking Reduction (add the requirements and divide by these factors) Property Use Multifamily residential Public, Institutional, or Civic Food, Beverage, Indoor Entertainment, or Lodging Multifamily Residential 1.0 Public, Institutional, or Civic Food, Beverage, Indoor Entertainment, or Lodging Retail Retail Other Commercial PARKING DESIGN AND LOCATION A. Location and Use of Parking Facilities Generally 984 Other Commercial a. Required parking spaces shall be located on the same lot with the principal building or the primary use unless otherwise permitted in subsection 1.b below. b. The Director may approve the location of required off-street parking that is not required to meet the requirements of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and that is not related to a convenience store or a residential use, on a separate lot, subject to the following standards. i. Off-site parking shall not be located more than 660 feet walking distance from the primary entrance of the use served Replaces current Table 15.2 in , and (F) for shared parking in the TOD district. The shared parking factors concept is new. The current table 15.2 is overly complex and simply forces the applicant to supply the highest possible parking required based on time of day. Currently, shared parking is required in the TOD core subdistrict. We removed this provision since minimum parking standards are not applicable to the TOD districts in this proposed module. Requirements for agreements for longterm maintenance of shared parking areas in current (F)(3) was deleted as unnecessary; Maintenance is always the responsibility of the property owner. 982 Replaces (B). 983 Eliminated provision from (B) that stated for lots that have more than one zoning designation, the required parking for the use(s) on the lot may be provided on any portion of the lot provided other dimensional standards are met. Standards in current (F) were deleted to avoid repetition, and requirement for landscaped islands after every 6 garage doors deleted as unnecessary. Surface-to-structure parking ratio provision relocated to new parking garage section. 984 These new standards replace , location of off-site parking. Aurora, CO Page 220

51 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Parking Design and Location ii. Land used for off-site parking for a non-residential use shall not be located in a Residential zone district unless the use for which the parking is provided is a permitted or conditional use in that residential zoning district. c. No portion of an off-street parking facility shall be located in a public street or sidewalk, parkway, alley, or other public right-of-way In Subarea A The following standards shall apply in Subarea A, unless Subsection 4 below applies, in which case the provisions of Subsection 4 shall be applied. a. No more than 40 percent of the lot frontage on arterial streets to a depth of 60 feet shall be occupied by surface parking. 987 b. Required parking space(s) associated with any single-family attached or multifamily residential building shall not be located more than 200 feet from an entrance to that building and shall have a direct pedestrian connection to the building's entrance or entrances. 988 c. In the MU-C, UC-R, MU-TOD, and MU-FB districts, and in the MU-OA Pedestrian Sub-district, off-street parking facilities shall be located to the rear of the primary building, within the principal building, within a garage structure, or entirely below grade In Subareas B and C 990 The following standards shall apply in Subarea A, unless Subsection 4 below applies, in which case the provisions of Subsection 4 shall be applied. a. No more than 60 percent of the lot frontage on arterial streets to a depth of 60 feet shall be occupied by surface parking. b. Garage entries, carports, and parking structures shall be internalized in building groupings or oriented away from street frontage to the maximum extent practicable. 4. Single-Family Detached and Two-Family Dwellings 991 a. Garage Required Single-family detached and two-family dwellings shall include a garage structure large enough to fully enclose at least one off-street parking space per dwelling on the same lot as the residential structure. Such structure may be attached or detached from the main dwelling, and shall meet the following standards: i. It shall be of a similar design, quality, and style as the main residential structure, utilizing the same façade and roofing materials or mixture of materials as found on those portions of the main residential structure facing the street. ii. It shall include at least four square feet of window area, including any window areas located within overhead or swinging doors. Such window areas shall admit light, but may be either transparent or translucent. 985 Current standards require 300 feet from the property line. This proposed revision is more flexible. Requirement for an agreement that the parking will be available for at least 10 years was deleted because very difficult to enforce. 986 New. 987 New. 988 From current (A). Removed references to parking district, since that district was eliminated, and removed references limiting off-site parking to higher density residential districts, since districts are no longer ranked by density. General off-site parking standards apply. Maximum 300 foot distance was replaced by general 600 foot distance. 989 From current (G), TOD district standards. Revised for clarity and broader application to Fitzsimons Boundary Area and the MU-Original Aurora pedestrian sub-district. 990 From current E-470 standards in Section Revised to be more broadly applied to Subarea C. 991 From current (C), revised for clarity. Aurora, CO Page 221

52 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Parking Design and Location b. Garage Variation Required In single-family detached residential subdivisions or planning areas containing four lots or more, the following standards shall be met: i. At least 50 percent of the total number of lots in the subdivision or area shall have recessed garage configurations, alternate-load garage configurations, or any combination of either. ii. For the purposes of this section, a recessed garage configuration shall be defined as a home design having all its street-facing garage doors recessed at least five feet behind the home's front building line as shown in Figure A front building line shall be a home's most forward non-garage wall plane at least ten feet wide. It may include the front line of a front porch, provided the porch has a roof and is at least five feet deep. Figure 4.6-1: Recessed Garage Configurations update graphic iii. For the purposes of this section, an alternate-load garage configuration shall be defined as a home design having garage doors facing in a direction other than the street on which the home fronts, as shown in Figure Where used as an alternate-load design, a side-load garage shall have at least one a garage door oriented perpendicular to the front elevation of the house with the enclosed portion of the garage on the front elevation comprising a maximum of 60 percent of the total front elevation width. Aurora, CO Page 222

53 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Parking Design and Location Figure 4.6-2: Alternate-Load Garage Configurations update graphic iv. House lots with alternate-load garages shall be permitted a reduced minimum front building setback of 15 feet for all portions of the building, including the garage, except that every dwelling shall maintain a minimum of 20 feet from the garage door to the back of the sidewalk, or to the back of the curb if no sidewalk is present. Alley-load garages shall be set back either three feet or a minimum of 20 feet from the alley right-of-way. Lots with alternative load garages shall be exempted from the driveway area restrictions of this UDO. c. Garage Doors as a Percentage of Front Facades Where a garage door or doors accommodating one or two cars in non-tandem configuration appear on the front of a residential structure, the door or doors shall not occupy more than 47 percent of the total width of the front elevation. Garages built to accommodate three or more vehicles in non-tandem configuration, the garage doors shall not occupy more than 55 percent of the total width of the front elevation. All three-car garages shall have a minimum two foot offset between the single and double garage doors, or between two single doors if three single doors are provided. Aurora, CO Page 223

54 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Parking Design and Location 5. Multifamily and Single-Family Attached Dwellings a. Parking spaces on private streets or driveways within multi-family developments may be used to meet the requirements for guest parking. 992 b. At least 40 percent of resident parking shall be in garages or carports and at least 50 percent of those garages and carports shall be attached to a primary residential structure, directly or through a breezeway, rather than freestanding garages or carports. 993 c. Where detached garages are used, they shall be faced with the same mix and percentage of materials as the primary building(s). d. In Subareas B and C, required parking space(s) associated with any single-family attached or multifamily residential building shall not be located more than 200 feet from an entrance to that building and shall have a direct pedestrian connection to the building's entrance or entrances. B. Access from Streets and Alleys 994 The following standards apply to both parking lots and parking garages, unless otherwise indicated. 1. No Back-out Parking Except for single-family and two-family uses, public parking areas shall be designed so that vehicles are not permitted to back out of the parking area onto a public street. 2. Access Points a. Only the minimum number of curb cuts necessary to serve the subject parcel is permitted. Existing curb cuts shall be removed as part of a site redevelopment project when in excess of minimum number of curb cuts necessary to serve the parcel. 995 b. Access to parking lots along arterials shall be from the local side street that is not adjacent to a Residential zone district or the residential component of a mixed-use project wherever practicable. c. Access drives shall be oriented perpendicular to the street. Access drives and internal drives shall align as closely to the surrounding grid network as feasible, in the absence of a gridded network surrounding the site. Any site greater than 5 acres will have internal blocks that reflect the grid network in original Aurora with the east/west frontage 330 feet and the north/south frontage 660 feet to the extent local topography allows. In the event the north/south measurement of the property is less than 660 feet, smaller blocks are allowed. In no instance shall any east/west block be longer than 330 feet. 996 d. No parking lot or garage entrance or exit shall be located closer than 50 feet to any intersecting street right-of-way line or closer than 10 feet to any adjacent property line, except where it is possible to provide shared access for adjacent properties, unless application of these standards would leave a parcel of property without vehicle access. 992 Prohibition on perpendicular parking on private streets was deleted as unnecessary. 993 Revised to include carports as an acceptable alternative to garages. 994 From current Wording revised for clarity. Removed introductory purpose statement. Waivers provision removed and will be addressed through administrative procedures in Module 3. Minimum length of feet for multifamily residential driveways was deleted as unnecessary. Requirement for full alley paving for any alley loaded redevelopment project in current (C) was deleted as potentially unenforceable. 995 Second sentence is new. 996 Mostly new language per staff recommendations. Aurora, CO Page 224

55 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Parking Design and Location C. Single-Family Detached and Two-Family Lots 1. Front Yard Restrictions a. Except for wedge-shaped lots, all driveways or parking surfaces located in the front yard shall not cover more than 40 percent of the total front yard area. For wedgeshaped lots, the maximum coverage shall be 50 percent. 997 b. Private driveways leading to dwelling units shall be either a minimum of 20 feet in length or less than 10 feet in length. In no case shall an approach drive allow parking such that parked vehicles encroach on public or private street or sidewalks. 998 c. On residential lots with side-loaded garages, a minimum back-out dimension of 25 feet is required Side Yard Restrictions All driveways or parking surfaces located in the side yard shall not exceed a width of 10 feet. 3. Rear Yard Restrictions Figure 4.6-3: Side-loaded garage - insert drawing a. All driveways or parking surfaces located in the rear yard of lots smaller than 20,000 square feet shall not cover more than 25 percent of the total rear yard area or 750 square feet, whichever is less. b. Notwithstanding Subsection 3.a above, on lots smaller than 20,000 square feet, driveways and parking surfaces located in the rear yard for the purpose of serving alley-loaded garages and lots with either attached garages on the rear elevation of the residence or detached garages located in the rear lot setback shall not exceed 50 percent of the total rear yard area. c. All driveways or parking surfaces located in the rear yard on lots greater than 20,000 square feet in area shall not exceed 750 square feet. 4. Surfacing a. Driveways or parking surfaces abutting paved public rights-of-way are required to be surfaced with concrete, asphalt, or brick or stone pavers. b. Driveways or parking surfaces abutting unpaved public rights-of-way in open, natural areas, and agricultural districts, are not required to be surfaced with concrete, asphalt, or brick or stone pavers. c. Driveways or parking surfaces abutting unpaved streets in residential zones are not required to be surfaced with concrete, asphalt, or brick or stone pavers. However, driveways or parking surfaces shall be of standards in conformity with those adopted by the Director of Public Works. Standards shall address construction, placement, material, drainage, and containment. 997 The definition of wedge lots in current (B)1 was relocated to the definitions article. 998 Second sentence from (B) Second sentence from (B)6. Aurora, CO Page 225

56 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Parking Design and Location D. Parking Lot Layout and Design Landscaping and Screening All surface parking lots shall comply with the landscaping and screening standards applicable to parking lots in Sections D and F Pedestrian Walkways In parking lots containing more than 300 spaces, sidewalks or paths designated by painted lines or different surfacing colors or materials shall be provided to provide safe pedestrian access from the farthest parking block, row, or bay to the primary entrance of each building the parking area serves Parking Blocks 1002 Each parking lot containing more 300 spaces shall divide the parking area into parking blocks, each containing no more than 100 vehicle parking spaces. Each parking block shall be separated from other parking blocks by a driving aisle with a center landscaped swale, or a by landscaped area at least 60 feet in width. 4. Tandem Parking a. In Subarea A, all required parking spaces shall be individually accessible except for guest parking in private driveways leading to dwellings, designated employee parking for non-residential uses, and residential parking spaces assigned to a specific unit in a multifamily dwelling b. In Subareas B and C, all required parking spaces shall be individually accessible except for guest parking in private driveways leading to single-family detached, single family-family attached, and two-family dwellings. Unless otherwise stated, tandem parking for the purpose of meeting minimum parking requirements is prohibited Overhangs a. Parking areas for public use shall be designed so that a parked vehicle does not overhang the public right-of-way, fire lane easement, or public sidewalk unless the sidewalk is widened by the amount of the overhang and does not reduce the width of an area or route required to meet the standards of the Americans with Disabilities Act. b. A parked vehicle may overhang a landscaped area, and up to two feet of such landscaped area may be included as a part of the length of the parking stall. c. A permanent curb, bumper, wheel stop, or similar devise shall be installed no closer than two feet from the end of each parking space adjacent to a public right-of-way, public sidewalk or planters to protect those areas from vehicle overhangs and to protect structures from vehicle damage. 6. Stall Size and Drive Aisle Dimensions 1005 a. Parking areas and required spaces, drive aisles, and maneuvering areas shall comply with the dimensional standards in Table below From current (B). Some consolidation and/or breakout of provisions and some wording revised for clarity. removed preferred movement provision stating a preference for two-way head-in and parallel over one-way or angled parking. This language was only a guideline, and was not enforceable. Prohibition of parking within 6 feet of building entrance was deleted. Slope limit of 8 percent deleted because covered by drainage/engineering codes. Limit to 15 or 20 contiguous spaces deleted because application of landscaping standards achieves the same result (C) New provision New First sentence from (B)6, revised for clarity This section replaces Figure 15.3 Parking Space and Aisle Design Standards, at the end of current Aurora, CO Page 226

57 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Parking Design and Location Table Off-Street Parking Layout Dimensions 0 (parallel) (head-in) Standard Spaces Curb length per space 23 ft ft ft. 9 ft. Space depth 23 ft ft. 21 ft. 19 ft. Space width 9.5 ft. 9 ft. 9 ft. 9 ft. Access aisle width (1 way / 2 way) 12/22 ft. [1] 13/22 ft. [1] 18/22 ft. [1] 23 ft. Notes: [1] Additional width may be required where aisle serves as the principal means of access to onsite buildings or structures. b. For parking designs other than those indicated in Table 4.6-3, the minimum dimensions shall be determined by the Director. 7. Surfacing 1006 a. Generally All parking areas shall be properly graded for drainage and shall be surfaced with concrete or asphalt, brick or stone pavers meeting Public Works Department standards. b. Alternative Materials 1007 Alternative materials including pervious or semi-pervious parking materials may be approved if the Director determines that the materials are durable and can be maintained over time. These alternative paving materials include grass, mulch, grasscrete, ring and grid systems used with grass, permeable concrete or asphalt, porous pavers, or recycled materials such as glass, rubber, used asphalt, brick, block, and concrete. 8. Marking of Spaces 1008 a. Parking spaces shall be marked on the pavement. Any other directional markings or signs shall be installed as permitted or required by the city to ensure the approved use of space, direction of traffic flow, and general safety. b. Required off-street parking spaces shall be delineated by four-inch-wide single- or double-striped lines in the configurations shown in Fig From current Full width paving requirement was deleted to allow partial pervious paving. Maintenance requirements will be covered in section New standard to encourage use of pervious paving materials. Application requirements deleted, as these should appear outside the code From current (G). Required colors for designation of different types of aisles and spaces deleted because those details are normally covered in engineering manuals. Aurora, CO Page 227

58 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Parking Design and Location Figure 4.6-4: Alternative Stall Markings and Wheel Stop Locations update graphic E. Parking Garage Design 1. Design 1009 Aboveground parking garages or portions of structures occupied by automobile parking shall meet the following standards: a. The minimum setback for a parking garage shall be the same that is required for the principal structure. b. The height of an accessory parking garage shall not exceed the height of the principal structure it is intended to serve. c. Each façade facing a public street shall conceal the view of all parked cars below the hoodline internal light sources, when viewed from property street frontage d. All parking surfaces along any street frontage of the garage shall generally horizontal, rather than an angled surface or ramp leading to a higher or lower level of the garage e. Elements such as decorative grillwork, louvers, or translucent materials consistent with building code requirements for open parking structure requirements shall be used on the upper floor façades, or the upper parking floors shall be designed with a pattern of window-like openings on the parking garage façade New standards intended to ensure high-quality design and appropriate siting of parking garages. These standards replace those currently in the TOD district, Section (H) with the more objective standards proposed here to apply broadly throughout the city. Currently in the TOD Section, (A) states that parking structures facing the public realm shall be integrated into the architecture of surrounding buildings. These new proposed standards should effectively implement good design of parking structures while allowing a creative design process Shielding of light sources is now mandatory New standard From current (H)4. Aurora, CO Page 228

59 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Parking Design and Location f. In Subarea A, and in the Core Subarea of the UC-TOD district, ground floor parking garage frontages on arterial streets shall be designed with a minimum floor-to-ceiling height of 10 feet to a depth of at least 20 feet from the street frontage, so that area can be converted to a pedestrian-active retail or service use in the future g. In all Subareas, the ground floor of a parking structure shall employ one or more of the options shown in Table 4.6-4, below to improve visual interest of the ground floor facade. Parking structures without ground-floor active uses shall comply with required landscaping per Section F Table Parking Structure Screening Methods Storefront with Active Use Often referred to as a wrap, this includes locating an active use such as, but not limited to: retail, restaurant, office, residential, commercial, or civic space between the parking structure and public space. Public Art Using public art, such as a mural or sculptural element integrated into the façade. Display Cases Display cases could be used to display retail goods, art, banners, and more From current (H)5, revised for enforceability and limited to Subarea A New standards, with a cross reference to the screening requirements for parking structures.. Aurora, CO Page 229

60 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Off-Street Loading Areas Landscape Wall Incorporating green landscaping into the façade of a parking structure at the ground floor also provides interest. This can be done with vines, vertical gardens, or other living plant material. 2. Enclosed Parking Requirement 1015 For single-family attached and multifamily developments at a density of less than 30 dwelling units per acre, a minimum of 35 percent of required resident parking shall be in garages, and at least 50 percent of those garages shall be attached to a residential structure rather than freestanding. 3. Multifamily Garages 1016 For multifamily buildings developed at a density of 30 dwelling units per acre or greater where off-street resident parking is required, the first resident parking space provided for each unit shall be in a parking garage. 4. Pedestrian and Vehicular Circulation 1017 a. Where pedestrians cross primary vehicular routes to access stairways, elevators, or other entries, a marked crosswalk shall be provided. b. Parking ramp slopes shall not exceed the 6.67 percent slope, or the maximum parking slope permitted in the Adopted Building Code for the City of Aurora OFF-STREET LOADING AREAS A. Number of Required Off-Street Loading Spaces 1019 The minimum number of off-street loading spaces, plus areas required for access and maneuvering, shall be provided pursuant to Table From current (F)1, revised for clarity Replaces current E-470 standards in Section (C)1.b and c. The standard previously only applied to RACs and MU subareas and now has been more broadly applied to all Mixed-Use districts and Subarea A. The previous standard was unclear whether all required parking for those developments was required to be structured. We assume that was the original intent and proposed this clarified standard accordingly New standards to address interior traffic within a parking structure This standard may be moved to the building code From current (B). The proposed loading requirements are substantially different from previous requirements. Previously, the number of required spaces in Table 15.3 was based on square footage thresholds and could require up to 6 or more loading spaces for larger office, manufacturing, or industrial uses. In the Needs Assessment, we proposed more flexible standards because many commercial and institutional deliveries are now being made more frequently using smaller vehicles for just-in-time operations, allowing for a reduction in required truck loading areas. Aurora, CO Page 230

61 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Off-Street Loading Areas Table Required Off-Street Loading Spaces Use Category Minimum Required Loading Spaces 1020 Office, Lodging, Personal Services and Repair, and Retail Other Non-Residential Uses B. Exemptions space per 50,000 sf of gross floor area or fraction thereof, up to a maximum requirement of 3 spaces 1 space per 50,000 sf of gross floor area or fraction thereof, up to a maximum requirement of 2 spaces Developments meeting any of the following conditions shall be exempt from required offstreet loading requirements: 1. Any use with less than 15,000 square feet of gross floor area. 2. Any lot in Subarea A. 3. Any use within the MU-FB, UC-TOD, and UC-R districts or the MU-OA Pedestrian Subdistrict. C. Applicability to Existing Structures 1022 Off-street loading requirements shall only apply to existing buildings when the gross floor area is increased by more than 50 percent. When the gross floor area is increased by more than 50 percent, the required loading spaces shall comply with Table for both the existing building and the expansion. D. Design and Use of Off-Street Loading Areas Location a. Off-street loading spaces shall be located on the same lot or parcel as the structure or use for which it is provided. b. Trucks parked in a loading area shall not encroach into required parking spaces or building setbacks. c. Parked trucks loading or unloading materials shall not block travel lanes in parking lots or fire lanes d. Any required off-street loading areas with more than two docking facilities shall not be located adjacent to any residential zoning district Maneuvering 1026 In Subareas B and C, loading areas shall be designated to provide for truck backing and maneuvering on-site and not from or within the public rights-of-way. 3. Screening Service and loading areas visible from a Residential zone district or a public right-of-way shall be screened by fences, walls, landscaping, berms, or any combination of those items meeting the standards in Section 4.7, Landscaping, Buffering, and Stormwater Management The maximum required loading spaces does not preclude a development from including additional loading spaces New standards New standards to encourage redevelopment From current (A) and (C) List items b and c are from current (K), NE Plains general development standards New neighborhood protection standard From current (K), NE Plains general development standards From current (C), revised to reference landscaping standards. Aurora, CO Page 231

62 4.6. Parking, Loading, and Stacking Drive-Through Stacking Areas DRIVE-THROUGH STACKING AREAS 1028 The following standards apply to properties with a drive-through facility: A. Number of Required Stacking Spaces 1029 Vehicle stacking spaces shall be provided in accordance with Table 4.6-6, below. Required stacking distances shall be measured from the flow line to the first parking stall or aisle. The required stacking distance for the site may be distributed between accesses serving the site, provided a minimum stacking of 20 feet is provided at all access points. Table Required Drive-Through Stacking Spaces Drive-Through Activity Minimum Required Stacking Spaces (per lane) Measured From Flow Line To Bank, Financial Institution, or Automated Teller Machine (ATM) 3 Teller window Restaurant Pick-up window Motor Vehicle Wash (Full Service) Outside of washing bay Motor Vehicle Wash (Self Service or Automated) Outside of washing bay Other Determined by the Director based on anticipated demand B. Size and Location Vehicle stacking spaces shall be a minimum of 8.5 feet in width and 19 feet in length. 2. Required vehicle stacking spaces shall not interfere with access to parking spaces. They may be located anywhere on the site provided that traffic impacts on- and off-site are minimized and the location does not create negative impacts on adjacent properties due to noise, light, or other factors. 3. Electronic devices such as loudspeakers, automobile service order devices, and similar instruments shall not be audible beyond the property line with any adjacent Residential district Figure 4.6-5: Vehicle Stacking Layout 4. Customers shall only be served in vehicles through service windows or order stations located on the rear of the building or on a side of the building not adjacent to a street frontage From current (E), revised for clarity. Definition of vehicle stacking was relocated to definitions article Revised from current Table 15.1 and Section (E)5. Text simplified to avoid repetition and text on waivers dropped, since this will be addressed in the Administration chapter Currently 7 required for fast-food restaurants, 4 of which must be designated for the drive-through ordering station area Previously 1 drying space and 2 stacking spaces per washing module Previously 2 stacking spaces per washing module Combined from (E)3 and 4. Includes additional new standards as noted New standard for neighborhood protection New standard for neighborhood protection and aesthetic values on corridors and intersections. Aurora, CO Page 232

63 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Intent 5. In the UC-TOD district and the MU-OA Pedestrian Subdistrict, no drive-through lane or vehicle stacking area may extend between the front of the building and the front lot line LANDSCAPING, SCREENING, AND STORMWATER MANAGEMENT INTENT 1038 This Section 4.7 is intended to preserve, protect, and enhance existing neighborhoods and the image of the City by requiring the installation of landscaping that will increase visual appeal of lots and streetscapes, conserve water, protect the environment, and mitigate adverse visual impacts of some land uses on nearby properties by: A. Requiring canopies of tree-lined streets; B. Preserving existing trees; C. Requiring integration of xeriscape plant materials and use of water wise and xeriscape principles and practices to conserve water; D. Buffering transportation corridors, view corridors, public open space, and public parks; E. Protecting wetlands; and F. Establish a high standard of landscaping quality for residential, commercial, and industrial development APPLICABILITY 1039 A. The provisions of this Section 4.7 apply to each of the following, but shall not apply to development or redevelopment of any lot smaller than 10,000 square feet in Subarea A All new development of residential uses other than single-family detached, single-family attached, or two-family dwellings; All new development of non-residential uses; 3. All expansion of an existing primary structure by 25 percent or more; 4. All construction of new primary use parking lots containing more than 15 or more parking spaces, and all redesign or reconfiguration of existing primary use parking lots containing 15 parking spaces B. The design of parks, and open space, and arterial medians under the jurisdiction of the Department of Parks and Open Space shall follow the design standards of that Department rather than the standards in this Section 4.7. C. In the case of any conflict between the various landscaping standards, the stricter standard shall apply. Wherever the requirements for two or more landscaping standards overlap, the same plant material may be counted toward meeting the requirements of both standards. D. The City Council may declare a drought emergency, and during such times, the installation of various types of landscaping as required by this section may be postponed. In the event of a declared drought emergency, the following landscape preparation measures shall be 1036 New Materials from current Article 14, with changes as noted From current , simplified to avoid repetition From current Application requirements deleted; those belong outside the Code. Discretion to require landscaping in other (unlisted) situations deleted to increase predictability New exemption to encourage infill development in Subarea A New standard These standards for subareas B and C are new. Aurora, CO Page 233

64 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas completed in lieu of specific landscape plantings prior to the issuance of a certificate of occupancy: 1. Final grading; 2. Installation of irrigation systems; 3. Installation of plant beds without plant materials including edging, weed barrier, and mulch; and 4. Completion of sedimentation and soil erosion best management practices including placement of soil erosion materials on areas to be sodded or seeded. Types of materials include roof leader extensions, straw wattles, hay bales, and soil erosion blankets REQUIRED LANDSCAPED AREAS 1044 The following areas shall be landscaped as described in this Section In the case of any conflict between the various landscaping standards, the stricter standard shall apply. Wherever the requirements for two or more landscaping standards overlap, the same plant material may be counted toward meeting the requirements of both standards. A. Street Frontage and Property Edge Buffers In General Public and private street frontages and certain property edges shall include landscaping required by Table 4.7-1, unless a different is required by another provision of this UDO. The requirements of this section shall be in addition to tree lawn landscaping standards set forth in Section , Street Requirements Exceptions and Exemptions a. Street buffers shall not be required for single-family Figure 4.7-1: Standard Landscaped Features for detached, single-family attached, Street Frontages update graphic or two-family front yards and corner side yards visible from public view. b. Street buffers are not required adjacent to public or private open space From current Urban public space standards from current deleted as too general to enforce From current and Tables 14.1, 14.4, 14.5, and Cap on setbacks at 100 feet max deleted as unnecessary, since the Code never requires setbacks even close to that size From (A), revised to remove reference to minimum planting materials required. Aurora, CO Page 234

65 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas Table Required Landscaping Buffer Widths and Allowed Reductions Standard Design Without incentive features included in this table Incentive Features Adjacent to E-470, I-225, And I-70 Parks and Open Space Single-Family Attached and Multifamily (at public ROW/ at private ROW/ at adjacent MF property line/ at other adjacent property lines) Commercial and Mixed-Use (at public ROW/ at private ROW/ at adjacent nonresidential lines/ at adjacent residential property lines) Industrial (at arterial ROW/ at other public ROW/ at private ROW/ at adjacent nonresidential lines/ at adjacent residential property lines) 25 feet 25 feet 20/12/10/25 feet 20/12/10/25 feet 25/10/8/10/25 feet Landscape berms 20 feet 20 feet 18/10/8/20 feet 18/10/8/20 feet 25/8/6/8/20 feet Fence standard design plus sixfoot decorative fence with 15 feet 15 feet landscaping on exterior side Masonry walls standard design plus six-foot masonry wall with 10 feet 10 feet --/--/5/15 feet --/--/5/15 feet --/--/--/5/15 feet landscaping on exterior side Low wall standard design plus 2.5 to 3-foot masonry wall with 10/6/8/20 feet 10/6/8/20 feet 25/5/6/8/20 feet landscaping on exterior side Low hedge standard design plus two- to three-foot high hedge planted in a triangular pattern in a 15/6/6/20 feet 15/6/6/20 feet 25/8/6/6/20 feet double row with shrubs three feet on center Hedge on berm 10/6/6/20 feet 10/6/6/20 feet 25/8/6/6/20 feet Tall landscape screen --/--/5/15 feet --/--/5/15 feet --/--/--/5/15 feet 3. Minimum Plant Material Quantities 1047 a. Along Public Rights-of-Way All required street buffers shall contain a minimum of one street tree and 10 shrubs or the tree and shrub equivalents listed in Section A, per 40 lineal feet. Figure 4.7-1: Street Frontage Buffers update graphic 1047 This material may be moved to Section with other general requirements. Aurora, CO Page 235

66 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas b. At Non-Right-of-Way Locations 1048 i. Adjacent to residential and mixed-use development, required street buffers shall include one tree and five shrubs for each 25 lineal feet of buffer, and 50 percent of the trees shall be evergreen species ii. Adjacent to commercial or industrial development, buffers shall include one tree and five shrubs for each 40 lineal feet of buffer. Figure 4.7-2: Non-Street Frontage Buffers update graphic iii. The width of the required non-right-of-way buffers in Table can be reduced through the use of one or more of the techniques shown in Figure below From current (B)3, the relationship between this provision, Table 4.7.1, and the reduction factor table that follows will be revised for clarity Added mixed-use to this requirement. Aurora, CO Page 236

67 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas Figure 4.7-3: Non-Street Frontage Buffer Reduction Options update graphic 4. Special Landscape Requirements at Entryways and Intersections 1050 Distinctive landscaped areas shall be provided at project entries and at intersections of public streets adjacent to the project. Landscaping in these areas shall consist of plant specimens having a high degree of visual interest during all seasons. A mixture of shrubs, ornamental trees, flowers, and/or ground cover shall be planted around sign bases and at curb returns near site entrances, and shall be located in plant beds that are edged and mulched over a weed barrier. 5. Fence and Wall Placement a. Where screen walls and fences are placed within a street frontage buffer, they shall be placed at the inward edge of the buffer. b. Side yard fences and walls placed at corner lots of single-family, two-family, and single-family detached homes may be placed at the minimum fence setback line allowed by Section Additional Requirements for Residential Areas Previously (C), and 1451(C) and (d).2, consolidated to apply more broadly rather than repeating provisions From current , revised as noted. Advisory text and unenforceable standards deleted. Aurora, CO Page 237

68 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas The following additional standards apply to lots where the primary structure is a residential use. If these standards conflict with those of Subsection A above, these standards shall apply. 7. Street Frontages a. Standard street-frontage landscaping shall comply with the Aurora Street Standards, including requirements for detached walks, tree lawns, street trees, landscaping, fence locations, and the avoidance of fence canyons. Tree lawns and areas within the right-of-way shall be landscaped as shown in Figure with irrigated sod, nonliving landscape materials, and living plant materials. Non-living landscape materials may consist of stamped, stained, or integrally colored concrete, natural stone pavers, and manmade pavers. Living plant materials within a tree lawn may consist of groundcovers, perennials, ornamental grasses, and deciduous and evergreen shrubs. When located within a site distance triangle plant materials shall not exceed 26 inches in height at maturity. b. Street trees shall be in addition to street perimeter buffer landscape requirements and shall consist of large deciduous tree species approved by the city forester. Street trees shall be centered within the tree lawn and spaced 40 feet on center. When a detached walk and tree lawn are absent, street trees shall be located between four to five feet from the back of curb or edge of pavement. 8. Erosion Control 1052 Figure 4.7-4: Street Buffer for Single-Family Detached and Duplex at Public or Private Streets update graphic a. Owners of residential properties shall, within 12 months of the first occupancy, install landscaping to control erosion. Such landscaping shall comply with Table or and the lawn permit and soil preparation procedures established by the Water Department, as well as any lawn establishment requirements contained in this UDO. Any second or later owner of a residential property that does not feature completed landscaping in its front and side yards shall complete the landscaping required in this Section B.3 within six months of the date the Director first notifies a property owner, in writing, that the property has not been landscaped in compliance with the provisions of this UDO b. No artificial trees, shrubs, turf, plants, or other materials not derived from natural vegetation or artificial turf meeting requirements of this UDO shall be used to fulfill the requirements as set forth in this Section B.3; however, artificial materials may be used for decorative purposes supplemental to the natural vegetation (D), removed purpose statement and simplified hierarchy. Removed waiver and enforcement materials, which will appear in administration and enforcement chapter Revised from city manager to director. Aurora, CO Page 238

69 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas 9. Requirements for Low Density Residential Uses 1054 The standards of this Section B.4 apply to all developers of single-family detached, single-family attached, two-family dwellings, co-housing developments, and cottage developments. a. Issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy Before issuance of a permanent certificate of occupancy, the developers of all new single-family detached, single-family attached, two-family, co-housing, and cottage residential developments shall provide front, side, and rear yard landscaping on each lot meeting either the Turf Option or the Xeric Option standards in Subsections 3.b and 3.c below. Temporary certificates of occupancy may be issued when landscaping as required by this Section B.4 cannot be completed due to weather or seasonal conditions. b. Turf Option If the developer chooses to use the Turf Option, the design and installation of all new turf areas shall comply with the requirements in Table Table Home Yard Landscaping Turf Option 1055 Plant Quality and Type Front Yards Requirements Turf [1] [2] Standard lot 30 percent min.; 40 percent max. Large lot 25 percent min.; 40 percent max. Small lot 40 percent min.; 50 percent max. Estate lot 25 percent min.; 40 percent max. One shade tree Two and one-half inch caliper Choose one: Ornamental tree Two-inch caliper Evergreen tree Six-foot height Small lot 8 minimum Shrubs [3] Standard lot 16 minimum Large lot 26 minimum Estate lot 36 minimum Side Yards Internal side yard with no exposure to public view None required; mulch required for soil stability. External side yard with exposure to public view Shall be landscaped with turf, and shrubs and trees at the rate of one tree and 10 shrubs per 40 linear feet of side yard. Rear Yards Turf No minimum; maximum 45 percent of the landscaped area NOTES: [1] For corner lots with a side yard visible to public view, turf areas shall include both front and side yard areas. [2] - Lot sizes are as follows: Small 3,700 sf to 5,999 sf; Standard 6,000 sf to 8,999 sf; Large 9,000 sf to 14,999 sf; and Estate 15,000 sf and greater. [3] shrubs shall be 5-gallon container minimum and conform to the ANSI Z60.1, current edition. Fabric may be omitted under annuals, perennials, and groundcovers. Provide visual interest during all seasons (E). Removed subsection 6, waivers for custom front yard landscaping. These will be addressed through a more broadly applied administrative adjustment or modification procedure proposed with Module 3. Also includes materials from current , excluding artificial turf standards which are included in the next subsection. This newly titled home yard landscaping section also includes options as outlined in Tables 14.3A and 14.3B. Extended to include co-housing and cottage developments Previously Table 14.3A. Aurora, CO Page 239

70 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas c. Xeric Option 1056 If the developer chooses to use the Xeric Option, the design and installation of all new landscaping shall comply with the requirements in this Subsection B.5, including Table Projects that incorporate approved xeriscaping techniques may deduct one additional foot from the width of those landscaped buffers otherwise required. i. Low Water Turf Varieties Large areas approved for turf shall require the use of low water-using turf varieties. Seeding and reseeding shall comply with requirements found in subsection E.4, Establishment of Non-irrigated Native, Dryland, and Restorative Grasses. ii. Mulches All plant beds, raised planters, and plant containers shall be mulched with wood or rock mulches at a depth of three to four inches for shrubs and two to three 1057 inches for annuals and perennials. All deciduous and evergreen trees or large shrub species not located in a plant bed shall be mulched. The mulch shall be applied to a circular area equal to the diameter of the excavated tree pit with the trunk of the tree as the center of the circle. The depth of the mulch within the circle shall be three inches minimum and six inches maximum iii. Xeriscape Irrigation Xeriscape areas shall include a method of irrigation for establishment of all plant materials. Hand watering is not permitted without prior approval by the city. Acceptable methods of irrigation include automatic irrigation systems designed for low-gallon use, such as low precipitation heads, drip systems, or other types of low gallon heads with the appropriate clock, pipes, and filtration devices. Table Home Yard Landscaping Xeric Option 1059 Plant Quality and Type Front Yards [1] Turf Rock and inorganic mulch Plant Materials Pavers Requirements None required Maximum of 50 percent of landscaped area. 50 percent of all rock and other mulch areas shall be covered with living plant material. Per subsection A Brick, asphalt, and natural stone pavers shall not exceed 40 percent of the landscaped area. One of the following features: Wall 1 foot to 2.5 feet high decorative natural stone, stucco, or approved CMU wall. Fence In accordance with subsection Berm Low earth berm with a maximum height of 2.5 feet and maximum slope of 1 rise: 4 run. Natural Boulders Three 2 x 3-foot minimum size boulders One shade tree Two and one-half inch caliper Choice of the following: Ornamental tree Two-inch caliper Evergreen tree Six-foot height 1056 From current and from Table 14.3B. Specific application list deleted should appear outside the UDO. List of principles deleted because regulations that follow are designed to achieve those principles. Maintenance provisions deleted because addressed in maintenance section Ranges of mulch depth, rather than just minimum depth, inserted per recommendation in Needs Assessment Added maximum mulch depth based on best practices for plant health Previously Table 14.3B. Aurora, CO Page 240

71 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas Table Home Yard Landscaping Xeric Option 1059 Plant Quality and Type Shrubs [2] Side Yards Internal side yard with no exposure to public view External side yard with exposure to public view Rear Yards Turf Xeric Requirements Shrubs shall be a minimum of 5-gallon container; no minimum number required. None required; mulch required for soil stability. Shall be landscaped by combining visible side and front yard areas and applying front yard standards. No minimum; maximum 45 percent of the landscaped area No minimum NOTES: [1] For corner lots with a side yard exposed to public view, front and side yard areas shall be combined for calculation of xeric requirements. [2] shrubs shall be 5-gallon container minimum and conform to the ANSI Z60.1, current edition. Fabric may be omitted under annuals, perennials, and groundcovers. Provide visual interest during all seasons. d. Areas Adjacent to Public or Private Streets In addition to the requirements of Sections B.4.b or B.4.c above, edges of the development shall be landscaped with a buffer including a fence and a buffer area extending to the edges of individual residential lots, but not less than 10 feet and not more than 100 feet from the street edge, containing at least one tree and 10 shrubs per 40 lineal feet of street frontage, as shown in Figure Figure 4.7-3: Street Buffer for HOA tracts abutting public or private streets update graphic e. Private Common Open Space Adjacent to Public or Private Streets Private common open space adjacent to public or private streets shall comply with the requirements of Figure Aurora, CO Page 241

72 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas Figure 4.7-4: Common Open Space Adjacent to Public or Private Streets update graphic. 10. Requirements for all Other Residential Development 1060 a. Private Common Open Space All common private open space shall be landscaped according to requirements found in subsection H. Not more than 25 percent of the required private open space area may be paved or may be covered with other non-living material such as organic and inorganic mulches. b. Building Perimeter Landscaping 1061 In Subareas B and C, the perimeter surrounding each primary building 1062 shall be landscaped with a variety of plant materials that will ensure seasonal interest. Plant beds shall be an average of eight feet wide and shall consist of landscaping, mulch over weed barrier, edging when adjacent to turf, and automatic irrigation. i. Amount. Perimeter plantings shall consist of a total number of plants equal to 1.25 plants per five linear feet of unit perimeter footage. The required perimeter plantings shall be comprised of the following: a. Trees five percent, including a mixture of evergreen and deciduous trees; b. Tall Shrubs 15 percent from species growing to a mature height of at least six feet; and c. Shrubs 80 percent. Including a mixture of evergreen and deciduous species (F), revised title of subheading. Maintenance provisions moved to administration and enforcement chapter Requirements limited to Subareas B and C Revised from each unit. Aurora, CO Page 242

73 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas ii. Location. Plantings shall be arranged to screen utility hardware and mechanical equipment, define entrances, screen headlights, and soften featureless walls. Trees and/or tall growing shrub species shall be located within shrub beds at building corners, primary entrances, and along expanses of featureless walls. iii. Garages. For projects with detached garages or carports, landscaped islands a minimum of five feet in width shall be provided along the full width of both ends of the garages and/or carports. B. Additional Requirements for Non-Residential Areas In General a. Landscaping shall be integrated with building design in internal areas of the site. A variety of plant materials shall be incorporated into each project, including native drought-tolerant vegetation, and perennial and annual flowerbeds. Tree plantings shall include an equal distribution of deciduous and evergreen species. b. Truck or rail loading docks facing a view corridor, drainage, public open space, or public right-of-way shall be screened from view. In addition, accessory features, parking lots, and outdoor storage shall be screened from view. 2. Standard Landscape Buffers All development shall incorporate those buffers described in Table 4.7-1, and shall be landscaped pursuant to this Section C.2 except as modified to accommodate incentive features or xeriscaping. a. Standard right-of-way edge landscaping shall comply with the Aurora street standards, including requirements for detached walks, tree lawns, street trees, landscaping, and fence locations. Street trees shall be centered within the tree lawn and spaced 40 feet on center. b. Tree lawns and areas within the right-of-way shall be landscaped in accordance with requirements below, and shall be irrigated as required by the city's irrigation ordinance. c. When a detached walk and tree lawn is absent, street trees shall be located between four and five feet from the back of curb or edge of pavement. Street trees shall be in addition to tree lawn landscape and street perimeter buffer landscape requirements and shall consist of large deciduous tree species approved by the city forester. d. Tree lawns adjacent to streets shall be landscaped with one or more landscape treatments consisting of irrigated sod, non-living landscape materials, and living plant materials. e. Living plant materials within a tree lawn may consist of groundcovers, perennials, ornamental grasses, and deciduous and evergreen shrubs. When located within a site distance triangle plant materials shall not exceed 26 inches in height at maturity. f. Non-living landscape materials when permitted within a tree lawn may consist of stamped, stained, or integrally colored concrete, natural stone pavers, and manmade pavers. g. Landscape buffers at non-right-of-way locations adjacent to residential development, shall include one tree and five shrubs for each 25 linear feet of buffer, and 50 percent of the trees shall be evergreen species From current , revised as noted. Simplified, with repetitive or unenforceable standards deleted. Aurora, CO Page 243

74 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas h. Landscape buffers at non-right-of-way locations adjacent to non-residential or mixeduse development shall include one tree and five shrubs for each 40 linear feet of buffer. 3. Building Perimeter Landscaping 1064 a. When Required Perimeter building landscaping is required in Subareas B and C when building elevations face public streets, transportation corridors, public open space, residential neighborhoods, or whenever an entrance door is present. Applicants shall provide one tree equivalent for each 40 linear feet of elevation length. Building landscaping shall be located within 20 feet of the building unless prevented by loading docks. b. Types and Locations i. Building perimeter landscaping shall be installed in plant beds, raised planters, or plant vaults covered by tree grates. Plant beds shall be a minimum of 10 feet wide; planters a minimum of six feet wide and 18 inches tall; and tree grates a minimum of four feet by four feet. ii. Perimeter landscaping shall be located in conjunction with site furniture in order to enhance entrances, soften the impacts of large expanses of featureless walls, and screen utility hardware and mechanical equipment. iii. Parking lot islands located within 20 feet of the building elevation may be counted towards building perimeter landscaping. iv. Landscaped containers may also be used as building perimeter landscaping. Containers shall be a minimum of 18 inches high and a minimum of three feet square or in diameter. The number of required containers shall be based on tree equivalents as found in this section. C. Standards for Lots Adjacent to E-470, I-225, I-70, and Public Parks and Open Spaces 1065 The following additional standards apply to lots adjacent to E-470, I-225, I-70, and public parks and open spaces. If these standards conflict with those in Subsections A, B, or C above, the provisions of this Subsection D shall be applied. a. Buffer requirements included in Section A shall apply, but buffer width reductions are not permitted for buffers next to public open spaces and public parks. b. All turf grasses and plant materials for buffers adjacent to public open spaces and public parks shall be approved by the Director of Parks and Open Space. c. Landscaping shall include a total number of trees and shrubs equal to one tree and 10 shrubs per 25 linear feet of frontage when the site contains industrial development, and one tree and 10 shrubs per 30 feet when the site contains any other type of development. d. The encroachment of buildings and paving into a special buffer is prohibited. D. Standards for Areas Adjacent to the E-470 Multi-Use Easement Outside the E-470 Multi-Use Easement Required trees shall consist of large deciduous shade tree species and large evergreen tree species as defined in Article 6, Definitions. At least 50 percent of required trees shall be evergreen species planted a minimum of five feet on center Soils provisions moved to general landscaping standards. Plant materials deleted because covered by general planting material standards From current and Table From current (E). Aurora, CO Page 244

75 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas 2. Within the E-470 Multi-Use Easement Landscaping shall include a combination of dryland grasses, trees, and shrubs, and at least 50 percent of the required trees shall be evergreen species. 3. Spacing of Plantings Like tree species may be grouped with spacing not less than 25 feet on center for small deciduous trees; 35 feet on center for large deciduous trees; and 15 feet on center for evergreen trees. The maximum distance between groups may not exceed 45 feet on center. Planting a single row of trees the full length of the buffer is prohibited. Shrubs shall be massed and planted between the tree groups E. Standards for Urban Street Frontages 1068 The standards in this Section I apply in the UC-TOD Core Area and the MU-OA Pedestrian Subdistrict. If these standards conflict with those in Subsections A, B, C, or D above, the provisions of this Subsection E shall be applied Zones Landscaping elements within the urban street cross section are divided in functional areas, or zones. These zones are called the Edge Zone, the Furnishing Zone, Pedestrian Zone, and Frontage Zone. See Figure Edge Zones The Edge Zone is located within approximately one and one-half feet from the curb, and does not contain landscaping, plant containers, raised planters, or other items that will interfere with traffic and/or snow plowing. Tree grates flush with the grade may encroach into the Edge Zone. 3. Furnishing Zone The Furnishing Zone abuts the Edge Zone and is seven feet wide. Its purpose is to accommodate street trees within tree grates or plant beds, decorative pavement, and site furnishings. Landscape requirements include at least one street tree per 30 lineal feet of street frontage in Subarea A, and at least one street tree per 40 lineal feet in Subareas B and C, located in tree grates, raised planters or at grade planters, 1070 and at least 10 shrubs, 30 Figure 4.7-5: Urban Street Frontage Zones update graphic perennials, or 30 ornamental grasses shall be installed per each 40 linear feet of plant bed length. Throughway Zone These last two sentences revised to be standards rather than discouraged and should Carried forward from current , with revisions as noted From current (G), revised for clarity Minimum diameters were deleted; because they are addressed in the general landscaping standards Maintenance text moved to maintenance section Aurora, CO Page 245

76 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas The intent of the Throughway Zone is to allow efficient, direct and unobstructed access along sidewalks. The Throughway Zone shall be clear of all plant containers, raised planters, plant beds, and other site amenities. 4. Frontage Zone 1072 a. Whenever landscaping is provided within the Frontage Zone adjacent to a building façade, landscaping area, fence, or screened parking lot, the amount of landscaping shall equal or exceed one tree equivalent per each 40 linear feet of landscapeable frontage. Plantings shall be located within plant containers or raised plant beds or plant beds. The edges of all parking lots shall be screened from view using the low wall option in Section F.7F (Parking Lot Landscaping). b. A Frontage Zone of a least five feet deep shall be established adjacent to a parking structure for the purpose of screening the structure. Such Frontage Zone shall be landscaped with a minimum of one tree equivalent per 40 lineal feet. These standards shall be in addition to street tree requirements Urban Landscaping Standards 1074 a. Permitted Street Trees Table Permitted Street Trees in the UC-TOD Core and MU-OA Pedestrian Subdistrict Tilia Species, Lindens* Ulmus Species, Valley Forge Elm Fraxinus Species, Ash Quercus Species, Oak Tree Species Gleditsia Species, Thornless Honeylocust Koelreuteria Species, Goldenrain Tree Celtis Species, Hackberry Ostrya Species, Hop Hornbeam Pyrus Species, Pear Carpinus Species, European Hornbeam* Acer Species, Maple* Corylus Species, Turkish Filbert* Malus Species, Non Fruit Bearing Species Ginko Species (male only) Craetegus Thornless and Fruitless Cultivars Syringa Reticulata Tree Lilac Cultivars Prunus Cerasifera 'Newport', Newport Plum other tree species as approved Notes: [1] Quantities will be controlled due to water conservation restrictions. b. Tree Grates Tree grates shall have at least one side a minimum of five feet long, shall be made from cast iron or other approved materials, shall be designed to accommodate tree growth, and shall be placed on anchored steel frames. Tree grates capable of supporting pavers may also be used. c. Plant Beds Plant beds surrounding trees must be a minimum of five feet by 15 feet. Trees planted in paved areas may be planted in plant beds consisting of shrubs and perennials as found in subsection E.3. d. Mulch Rings A mulch ring four feet in diameter minimum shall be placed around each tree planted within a turf area. The mulch ring shall consist of organic materials placed at a depth of not less than three inches or an approved recycled rubber tree mat Parking lot screening simplified through cross-reference From current (E)2, revised for clarity Wording of several standards revised to avoid overlap and improve clarity. Parking structure screening provisions deleted, since stronger standards now govern all parking structures. Staff is still considering whether/which of these should become citywide standards in the general landscaping standards section. Aurora, CO Page 246

77 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas e. Xeriscape Requirements A minimum of 75 percent of all annuals and street trees and 100 percent of all other plant material provided within the streetscape shall be from the city's recommended xeriscape plant list or other approved and accepted xeriscape plant material source. f. Groundcovers 1075 i. Permitted living groundcovers include deciduous and evergreen shrubs, and annual and perennial plants, all of which, except for annuals, shall be selected from the city's recommended xeriscape plant list; ii. Permitted non-living groundcovers include, poured in place finished, integrally colored, stamped, or textured concrete; natural stone pavers such as flagstone, granite, or slate; brick pavers; manmade simulated stone products made from concrete, asphalt, or approved recycled materials; organic and inorganic groundcovers when used as mulches when planted in conformance with the applicable zone's requirements or according to subsection A; and artificial turf in conformance with requirements found in this article. iii. Prohibited non-living organic and inorganic groundcovers include inorganic river rock, crushed rock, gravel, cobbles, stones or any other materials acquired from geological or manmade sources; organic ground covers such as wood chips, shredded bark, pole peelings, or other organic materials acquired from living plants; and crusher fines and crushed granite iv. Living ground covers shall be mulched with organic and/or inorganic mulches; v. The combined height of groundcovers and their containers shall be not more than 26 inches when within a sight triangle. vi. Groundcovers may not encroach into the traveled way or Throughway Zone. F. Parking Lot Landscaping 1077 All development shall meet the following standards in addition to the requirements of Section 0, Parking, Loading, and Stacking: 1. A minimum of five percent of the area required to provide the minimum number of parking spaces required by Section 4.6 shall be landscaped. Areas that qualify as internal landscaping are illustrated in the Figure Each row of parking shall be separated from automobile travel routes or other hard-surfaced paved areas with landscaped swales. Figure 4.7-6: Parking Lot Landscaping update graphic 3. Landscaped swales shall be placed in parking rows at an average of one swale per 10 parking spaces or portion of 10 parking spaces Irrigation standard deleted because general standard applies Last two words as approved deleted because no standards available to guide the decision From current and 1509(B), Table Parking Block standards from Table 15-6 were deleted as unnecessary. References to islands replaced by swales. All provisions for swales are new, and are designed to reduce stormwater flow and landscaping irrigation needs. Aurora, CO Page 247

78 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas 4. In Subareas B and C, each parking row shall be terminated by a landscaped swale. 5. Landscaping in each swale shall consist of one shade or ornamental tree per 30 linear feet of swale, and one or more understory treatments, which may include mulched shrub beds, decorative concrete, or decorative pavement, but at least 50 percent of the surface shall be living materials Swales shall be located below the grade of the parking surface and shall be designed to allow stormwater to infiltrate into the swale area, either directly from the parking surface or through gaps in any raised curbs installed around the swale. See Figure Whenever pedestrians must cross landscaped swale, the crossing shall be surfaced with modular pavers or decorative stamped and colored concrete. 8. Each perimeter of the temporary parking lot approved by the city that abutting public or private rights-of-way, public or private open space, or a pedestrian walk shall be provided with a five-foot wide minimum landscape area to be landscaped in accordance with requirements in this Section F.7F Figure 4.7-7: Swale design to allow storm water drainage G. Parking Lot Screening 1080 Parking areas shall be set back from property lines and screened in accordance with the following standards: 1. Requirement All parking lots shall be screened from public rights-of-way, public open space, and adjacent property. Parking lot screening shall be integrated into adjacent buffers and street frontages, and can be counted toward required buffer yards. 2. Three Options 1081 Screening shall be one of the following types. Figure 4.7-8: Parking Lot Screening update graphic a. A berm between two and one-half and three feet high with a maximum slope of 4:1 in combination with evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs Consolidates and revises current parking island and median planting requirements Moved from Urban Street Frontage landscaping standards to become a general citywide standard From current and from (D), and Table 15.7, revised for clarity. Preference for berm screening removed. Plant materials removed standard plant material provisions will apply. Options for redevelopment deleted, since they are just a subset of the general 3 options, and use of berms may be appropriate for redevelopment in Subareas B and C Revised to remove preference for berms. Aurora, CO Page 248

79 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas b. A low continuous landscaped hedge between two and one-half and three feet high consisting of a double row of shrubs from species that will reach at least 3 feet in height at maturity, planted 3 feet on center in a triangular pattern. c. A decorative masonry wall between two and one-half and three feet tall, made of materials similar in appearance to the materials used on the street façade of the primary structure, in combination with landscaping on the street side of the wall. 3. For Single-Family Detached Residential Zoning Districts 1082 Whenever off-street parking lots for more than six vehicles are located within or adjacent to single-family detached residential districts, they shall be screened with an opaque ornamental fence, decorative wall, landscaped earth berm, or dense evergreen hedge, having a minimum height of six feet and a maximum height of eight feet, measured from the median elevation of the parking lot surface. H. Requirements for Sites with Existing Development 1083 The following standards apply to sites with existing development when those sites are redeveloped. If these standards conflict with those in Subsections A, through G above, the provisions of this Subsection G shall be applied. 1. Intent 1084 These standards are adopted to encourage redevelopment of sites where existing structures or land uses are outdated, while ensuring that the resulting redevelopment improves the visual quality of the neighborhood and mitigates any negative impacts of the redevelopment on nearby residential development. 2. Landscape Requirements 1085 a. All redevelopment involving demolition of all or substantially all of the primary structure shall meet the landscaping standards in Subsections A through E above, as applicable. b. All redevelopment in Subarea A meeting the applicability triggers in Section is required to provide a minimum of 10 percent of the total area of the site as landscaped area. All sites in Subareas B and C meeting the applicability triggers in Section and not involving demolition of all or substantially all of the primary structure is required to provide a minimum of 15 percent of the total area of the landscaped area c. All redevelopment shall achieve the minimum amounts required in Subsections 2.a above by preserving or installing landscaping according to the priorities in Subsection 3 below. 3. Priority Areas 1086 a. Priority 1 Existing trees that meet the requirements found in subsection B 1087 shall be preserved, relocated, and/or mitigated according to the criteria found in the policy From current (D), revised for clarity From current , removed waivers provision since it will apply more broadly in administration chapter Reworded and simplified, and goal of encouraging redevelopment added. Eliminated whenever any changes or additions are made to landscaping or parking areas. Where proposed site changes involve a net increase in gross building area of 2,000 square feet or more, current landscape standards shall also be met wherever feasible unless prevented by physical obstacles. The triggers for landscaping requirements are now addressed in the applicability section Content significantly simplified; all of these topics are covered in the previous section, so these provisions were redirected to focus on prioritization of areas, assuming that redevelopment on smaller sites will often not be able to accommodate all of the landscaping possible in new development. Specific plan elements deleted (should be outside the code); irrigation requirements now addressed in general landscaping requirements Staff is currently evaluating these proposed priority areas. Aurora, CO Page 249

80 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Required Landscaped Areas b. Priority 2 If meeting Priority 1 does not achieve the minimum amounts of required landscaping, install street frontage landscaping meeting the following standards, as shown in Figures or i. Install a 10-foot wide landscaped area measured from back of sidewalk, or from back of curb if no sidewalk exists, with one tree and 10 shrubs per 30 linear feet of frontage or one tree (in tree grate) per 30 linear feet of frontage ii. Install additional shrubs and flowers at site entrances and around base of signs. Figure 4.7-9: Optional Street Frontage Treatments update graphic iii. If the lot is a corner lot, install a landscape feature on the corner c. Priority 3 If meeting Priorities 1 and 2 does not achieve the minimum amounts of required landscaping, install non-frontage buffer landscaping meeting the standards in Table This replaces the current reference to the city s tree preservation policy From current Table Combined current options A and B into one provision Current Table 14.7 simply states landscape feature. This revision clarifies that a landscaping feature shall be provided on the corner. Aurora, CO Page 250

81 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Site Design for Stormwater Management and Water Conservation Table Non-Street Frontage Buffer for Redevelopment Standard Type Buffer Width at Residential Property Line Buffer Width at Non-Residential Property Line Required Landscaping at Residential Property Line Required Landscaping at Non-Residential Property Line d. Priority 4 Requirement Eight feet Five feet Six-foot decorative fence; One tree and 10 shrubs per 25 linear feet of buffer (half of trees shall be evergreen) One tree and five shrubs per 30 linear feet of buffer If meeting Priorities 1, 2, and 3 does not achieve the minimum amounts of required landscaping, install parking lot landscaping meeting the standards in Table Table Parking Lot Landscaping for Redevelopment Properties Description Parking row separation Swale plantings e. Priority Requirement Separate ends of parking rows from vehicle travel routes with landscaped swales. 1 approved deciduous shade or ornamental tree located in tree grate or landscape area consisting of shrubs and mulch. Shrubs shall provide 100 percent coverage except where pedestrian crossings are needed. If meeting Priorities 1, 2, 3, and 4 does not achieve the minimum amounts of required landscaping, install plant beds or raised planters or equal in length to 20 percent of building frontage facing a public street. Raised planters shall be at least 18 inches in height, at least three feet wide, and constructed from approved materials similar in appearance to a predominant material used on with the closest building facade I. Private Open Space 1095 For all development, areas designated as non-public active and passive recreation areas and facilities, trails, wildlife habitat, natural land features, and preserved view corridors, and that are not included in a required street frontage buffer, shall contain a minimum of one tree and 10 shrubs (or the approved tree and shrub equivalents as listed in Section D.2) per 4,000 square feet. For the purposes of calculating the amount of required plant material in private open spaces, the following shall be omitted: areas of 100-year floodplain, floodways, lakes and ponds, undisturbed marshes, wetlands, and detention and water quality ponds SITE DESIGN FOR STORMWATER MANAGEMENT AND WATER CONSERVATION 1096 A. Low Density Residential Landscaping 1. Applicability After the effective date of this section, all single-family residential development areas in the R-R, R-1, or R-2 zoning districts, and all residential development in any zoning district containing single-family detached or two-family residential dwelling units at a density five 1091 From current Table From current Table Removed standard that landscaped islands must be located within 20 feet of a building elevation. Removed minimum size of swales to allow more flexibility Simplified by deleting overlapping requirement for plant containers From current Table From current (A) revised for clarity. Waiver provisions deleted and will be addressed in administration chapter New provisions based on previous work with Aurora and Western Resources Advocates (WRA). Aurora, CO Page 251

82 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Site Design for Stormwater Management and Water Conservation dwelling units per gross acre or less, shall comply with the following standards to implement Low Impact Development and water conservation. 2. Low Impact Development Design Required All areas required to be landscaped by 7.4.A.1 shall be designed as an integrated system to meet on-site storm water quality requirements for the lot through incorporation of Low Impact Development design principles and incorporation of Best Management Practices for on-site storm water management. These systems shall use vegetated pervious surfaces or other measures such as permeable pavements to infiltrate the Water Quality Capture Volume (WQCV) for the lot on-site. Piped connections from roofs and downspouts and other impervious areas to storm drains are prohibited. Piped conveyances on lots must discharge to pervious areas for the WQCV. 3. Water Quality Capture Volume (WQCV) Treatment Required Each residential area shall be designed so that open spaces and landscaped areas on individual residential lots, on individual lots for permitted non-residential uses, and in common areas and along street frontages shall provide permanent on-site treatment of the WQCV from impervious surfaces on the lot. Within the City of Aurora, the WQCV is based on runoff from 0.6 inches of runoff. The WQCV shall be calculated following the procedures in the Urban Drainage and Flood Control District Urban Storm Drainage Criteria Manual, Volume Low Impact Development Features Permitted a. The types of Low Impact Development features allowed within the City of Aurora include those discussed in the Urban Drainage and Flood Control District Urban Storm Drainage Criteria Manual, Volume 3 or other Best Management Practices approved by the City of Aurora. These Low Impact Development features may include, but are not limited to the following: i. Disconnected Impervious Area For disconnected impervious area to qualify as a practice that infiltrates the WQCV, the receiving pervious area (defined as the land to which impervious areas discharge) must be equal to or greater than the impervious area that is treated by the receiving pervious area. ii. Grass Buffers and Swales iii. Bioretention (Rain Garden or Porous Landscape Detention) iv. Sand Filters v. Permeable Pavement Systems b. In addition, other BMPs including Extended Detention Basins or Retention Ponds and Constructed Wetland Ponds may be used in open space tracts to treat the runoff from multiple lots, roads, trails, and pathways. 5. Water Conservation in Common Areas In private common open spaces, at least 50 percent of open areas with Low Impact Development features shall be designed and designated as z-zones, in which any vegetation shall not require irrigation after three years. 6. Additions of Impervious Area Following the issuance of the initial certificate of occupancy, if additional impervious area in excess of 500 square feet is added to the site, open spaces and landscaped areas on the site shall be revised to provide the WQCV for the additional impervious area. 7. Additional Space Counted Towards Permitted Development Densities If compliance with these requirements can only be accomplished by increasing the amount of open space or landscaped area beyond that otherwise required, the applicant shall be permitted to calculate the maximum residential density permitted on the site as if Aurora, CO Page 252

83 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Site Design for Stormwater Management and Water Conservation that additional required open space or landscaped area was developable land, and minimum lot sizes shall be adjusted as necessary to accommodate any additional residential dwelling units permitted by that calculation. 8. Design Alternatives If in the judgment of the Director, one or more requirements of this Section cannot be met due to site engineering constraints, then a design alternative will be allowed, provided that the design results in equal or better stormwater quality than would compliance with the otherwise applicable requirement, and provided that the use of pipes, culverts, or other engineered infrastructure shall only be approved for portions of the development (if any) for which there is no practicable LID technique B. Water Conservation and Irrigation Turf Area Limitations for Single-Family Detached and Two-Family Dwellings The design and installation of all new turf and artificial turf areas for each lot shall comply with all of the requirements listed in Table and Table Turf Area Limitations for All Other Development Areas except Playfields and Golf Courses In all other development sites except playfields and golf courses, the use of cool-season grass sod, seed, and seed mixtures that contain cool-season grass species shall be limited to not more than 33 percent site's total landscaped area. The area consisting of high water using species of cool season grasses, such as Kentucky Blue Grass, shall be contiguous and patches located throughout the site shall be avoided. For the purposes of these standards "contiguous" shall mean all abutting areas and areas that may be separated by a pedestrian walk or trail. Areas separated by pavement used for vehicular circulation are not considered contiguous. A cool season grass species shall be considered a high water user if it requires one and one-half inches of water or more per week to survive. TOT lots and recreational areas that will benefit from the durability of cool season grasses are exempt from contiguity requirements of this section. All other requirements shall apply. 3. Irrigation of all Areas except Xeriscape All applicants shall provide automatic irrigation systems for landscaped areas. Developers of commercial, retail, multi-family, single-family attached, single-family detached, and industrial developments shall install automatic rain shutoff sensors to all controllers in all irrigation systems. Permanent irrigation shall be provided for trees, shrubs, annuals, and perennials within these areas. Automatic irrigation is required in all plant beds, raised planters, and containers. To assess irrigation tap fees, the Utility Department has divided landscape tracts into water conserving landscaped areas (nonturf) and non-water conserving landscaped areas (turf), and non-irrigated areas (e.g., pavement). A table summarizing these areas shall be provided on the landscape plan and will be used for assessing fees under Sections [now and ]. 4. Irrigation of Xeriscape Areas Xeriscape areas shall include a method of irrigation for establishment of all plant materials. Hand watering is not permitted without prior approval by the city. Acceptable methods of irrigation include automatic irrigation systems designed for low gallon use, such as low precipitation heads, drip systems, or other types of low gallon heads with the appropriate clock, pipes, and filtration devices This provision will be consolidated with all of the other waiver provisions applicable to landscaping This includes material from current Sections (Turf Areas), (Irrigation), and E (Xeriscape Irrigation). Aurora, CO Page 253

84 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Site Design for Stormwater Management and Water Conservation C. Detention, Retention, and Water Quality Ponds General Detention, retention, and water quality ponds shall be integrated physically, functionally, and aesthetically into the total landscape design. Standing water, except in vegetated wetland areas, is discouraged other than in recirculating water features. Water quality enhancement areas within the bottom of the pond shall be planted with vegetation that is consistent with the presence of saturated soils, such as cattails. 2. Slopes Generally, vegetated slopes shall not exceed 3:1. All pond turf areas shall be properly drained. Any mowed slope that is within a public right-of-way or any area proposed to be maintained by the public shall be no steeper than 4:1. 3. Pond Depth Pond depth shall generally be limited to not more than six feet. 4. Pond Retaining Walls Retaining wall height shall be limited to 42 inches if the Director determines that the potential visibility of the pond contributes to perceived project quality or mitigates adverse impacts of the development. 5. Pond Grading Pond grading shall be designed to accommodate access for maintenance. Rockscaped or riprap slopes are discouraged except when necessary for erosion control. All riprap areas not receiving direct flows shall be buried and seeded. Plantings of willows and other suitable wetland plant materials are encouraged. 6. Landscape of Areas Surrounding Detention, Retention, and Water Quality Ponds 1100 The area within the tract surrounding a pond shall contain a minimum of one tree and ten shrubs or the approved tree and shrub equivalents as listed in subsection A per 4,000 square feet. Landscape requirements for ponds may be counted toward private open space requirements. The following areas may be deducted from tract square footage before calculating landscape requirements: a. Area within 100-year flood plain. b. Area within floodways. c. Surface area of lakes and ponds. d. Area within undisturbed marshes and wetlands. 7. Detention Ponds in Urban Landscapes 1101 In the UC-TOD Core and MU-OA Pedestrian Subzone, detention, retention, and water quality ponds shall not be located adjacent to the street or back of walk unless the city Engineer Determines that alternative on site or off-site locations are not available or are impracticable. All detention, retention, and water quality ponds shall be integrated physically, functionally, and aesthetically into the total landscape design From current Content on irrigation removed as repetitive From current urban street frontage landscaping standards. Aurora, CO Page 254

85 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management General Landscaping Standards D. Wetland Requirements Federal Law All applicants shall comply with all applicable requirements of the Federal Clean Water Act and the associated Army Corps of Engineers' 404 permitting process. Specification of required plant materials is covered by the Federal Clean Water Act and the associated Army Corps of Engineers' 404 permitting process. 2. Source of Water Existing wetlands shall be sustainable without the introduction of manually directed water, and are ideally created as a result of a high water table or flowing streams. Wetlands shall not be irrigated by manual or automatic means. The re-direction of a site's water to detention/retention areas in amounts sufficient to maintain obligate plant species is allowable. 3. Appearance Wetlands shall be designed and maintained to exhibit the natural wetland or riparian character required by wetland and riparian plant species. Wetlands shall not be mowed, cut or disturbed for any reason other than maintenance or repair in accordance with city regulations. 4. Relationship to Required Landscaping A maximum of 50 percent of a site's required landscaping may be committed to wetlands. E. Private Covenants Contrary to Public Policy are Disallowed 1103 Any private covenant(s) that purports to invalidate or disallow the xeriscaping provisions contained in this UDO are invalid and a nullity, as to those provisions, as being against the expressed public policy of the Aurora City Council and of the state legislature as expressed in Section (11) of the Colorado Revised Statutes GENERAL LANDSCAPING STANDARDS 1104 A. Plant Material Requirements Variety Landscaping for all development shall include a variety of plant materials, including trees, shrubs, groundcovers, annual and perennial flowering species, turf grasses, and mulches, that will provide visual interest during all seasons. When used to meet the requirements of this UDO, shrubs shall be of species that reach a height of at least three feet at maturity Landscape materials such as stone, masonry, wood, and steel may also be used to define space and create visual interest. When landscaped areas are adjacent to natural areas or open spaces, plants shall be selected to continue that native appearance along the border with the open space or natural area Plant material requirements are outlined in the Landscape Manual available on the city s website, which includes landscape plan submittal requirements and a xeriscape plant list From current , revised for clarity From current Removed text stating City council hereby declares that the health and general welfare of the citizens of this city are necessarily dependent on the reliable and uninterrupted future delivery of water and that the same requires conservation of this vital resource. Given this The tone was inconsistent with the rest of this landscaping ordinance foot clearance requirement above public walks moved to maintenance section From current , with changes as noted Standard from various sections made generally applicable Relocated Revised to reference the landscape manual on the city s website. Aurora, CO Page 255

86 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management General Landscaping Standards 2. Requirement for Drought Tolerant or Drought Resistant Landscaping and Plant Species At least 75 percent of all annuals and trees, and 100 percent shrubs, perennials, groundcovers, and ornamental grasses used to landscape each site regulated by this section shall be selected from the City of Aurora Recommended Xeriscape Plant List in the Landscape Manual; the Colorado State University Cooperative Extension Facts Sheet on Xeriscaping; or other approved water wise, resource wise, or Xeriscape plant material references. 3. Prohibited Plant Species 1109 a. Plants listed as an invasive species by the Colorado State University Extension Service are prohibited. b. Plants listed on the Colorado Noxious Weed List are prohibited. c. Russian Olive (all Elaeagnus Angustifolia species and cultivars), Aspen (all Populus Tremuloides species and cultivars), Cottonwood (all species), and/or Tamarisk (all species) plants are prohibited. 4. Living Material Requirements 1110 a. Requirement In general, each area within a site shall be landscaped with not less than 50 percent living landscape material unless otherwise required in this Section 4.7. Living landscape material shall include irrigated and non-irrigated grasses, trees, shrubs, annual and perennial plants, and ornamental grasses. An area's coverage may be determined by totaling the value of each plant in Table An area is said to provide 50 percent coverage when the total of all coverage values equals or exceeds 50 percent of the area. For example, a 1,000 square foot area is said to have 50 percent coverage when the total of all coverage values of plants within the area is equal to or exceeds 500 square feet. Table Plant Material Coverage Values 1111 Type of Planting Coverage Values Deciduous Trees According to Caliper Inch 2-inch caliper ornamental tree 144 square feet 2 ½-inch caliper shade tree 625 square feet 3-inch caliper shade tree 625 square feet Evergreen Tree Coverage All evergreens over 6 feet in height 200 square feet Deciduous Shrubs, Evergreen Shrubs, and Perennials According to Average Spread Less than 4-foot spread 16 square feet 4-foot to 6-foot spread 32 square feet Greater than 6-foot spread 64 square feet b. Exceptions and Exemptions i. Tree lawns shall be landscaped as required by Sections A.5.bE. ii. Parking lots shall be landscaped as required by Section DF. iii. Areas within and immediately adjacent to public rights-of-way constructed prior to April 28, 2001 having no reasonable means of providing an underground automatic irrigation system may at the discretion of the Homeowners Association 1109 From current Invasive and noxious species are now prohibited, rather than being subject to prohibition From current Prohibition on zeroscaping removed, since other code provisions achieve that ban Previously Table 14.8, revised to eliminate redundant coverage amounts for evergreen trees and for spreading plants. Aurora, CO Page 256

87 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management General Landscaping Standards or property owner be landscaped with a minimum of two materials as listed below: a. River rock or crushed rock b. Cobbles not less than four-inch diameter c. Crusher fines, breeze, or road base d. Natural or manmade pavers over a compacted base e. Integrally colored stamped decorative concrete 5. Plant Quality and Installation All plant materials shall meet or exceed minimum standards as outlined by the Colorado Nursery Act Regulations and the current edition of the Uniform Nursery Standards, and shall be installed according to specifications of the Associated Landscape Contractors of Colorado. Plant material requirements are outlined in the Landscape Manual available on the city s website, which includes landscape plan submittal requirements and a xeriscape plant list Minimum Plant Sizes Plant material shall be installed in the minimum sizes shown in Table Tree caliper shall be measured six inches above ground level for all trees up to four inches in caliper and 12 inches above ground level for larger trees. Table Minimum Plant Sizes Type of Planting General Minimum Size Requirement Special Locations [1] Two and one-half inch caliper minimum Three-inch caliper Exception: In single-family detached developments an Shade trees average of two and one-half inch caliper shade trees shall be provided with no shade trees less than two inches in caliper. The average shall be determined by dividing the sum of all caliper inches of all two-inch caliper and greater shade trees by the total number of all shade trees. [2] Two-inch caliper minimum (for single stem varieties). Clump Two and one-half inch Ornamental forms, multi-stemmed, and similar are acceptable and shall caliper trees be six to eight feet in height at time of installation. [2] Evergreen trees Six feet high 10 feet high Shrubs Five-gallon container Ornamental grasses and One-gallon container perennials NOTES: [1] Special areas include non-residential or mixed-use development along property lines adjacent to residential uses, and multifamily or single-family attached development adjacent to single-family detached or two-family dwellings Plant Beds Plant beds shall be separated from turf and other areas by edging as approved. Mulch and weed barrier fabric shall 1115 be used to protect the bare soil from weeds and conserve moisture. All shrubs and groundcovers shall be located within plant beds. The installation of individual shrub species in turf areas is prohibited Revised to reference the landscape manual on the city s website New table to incorporate standards from (C) and (D), with text clarified. As approved standard for groundcovers, ornamental grasses, and perennials deleted as too vague to be enforceable From current (D) Changed from may. Aurora, CO Page 257

88 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management General Landscaping Standards 8. Thorny Plants and Shrubs Trees with thorns shall not be located within 20 feet of public walks and other thorny plant material shall not be located within four feet of public walks. 9. Irrigation 1116 a. All landscaped areas plant beds, raised planters, and plant containers, with the exception of non-irrigated native, dryland, and restorative grasses as provided in Section E.4 shall be watered by an underground automatic irrigation system meeting all adopted city requirements. b. Landscaping in areas that are less than 12 feet wide shall be watered by an underground drip irrigation system. c. Automatic rain shutoff sensors shall be installed in all irrigation systems. d. The Utility Department has divided landscape tracts into water conserving landscaped areas (non-turf) and non-water conserving landscaped areas (turf), and non-irrigated areas (e.g., pavement), and the amount of land in each area will be used for assessing irrigation tap fees under Sections and Decorative Pavement Decorative pavements, not including sidewalks and patios, shall be constructed of integrally dyed concrete, colored paving units such as brick or interlocking units, sandstone, or other native stone. Walks shall be constructed from concrete or materials that match other pavements in the development. B. Tree Preservation 1118 Existing trees within the city that are alive and in good health shall remain in their present location and shall be safeguarded from damage that may result from the development process.. 1. Applicability a. Existing healthy trees with a caliper greater than or equal to four inches, as measured four and one-half feet above the ground, shall be preserved or protected during the development process. For the purposes of this section, development process shall mean the intent to construct upon, improve, or modify any property within the City of Aurora, whether governed by a site plan or not. b. These standards shall apply to all residential and nonresidential development projects within the City of Aurora, including city projects on city-owned or managed properties. c. Single-family detached or two-family residential properties, where additions or modifications to existing buildings or improvements to the lot are proposed, shall be exempt from these standards. 2. General Standards 1119 Properties in this category shall comply with the following standards: 1116 Consolidates current numerous similar requirements throughout the UDO Submittal requirements were deleted; they should appear outside the UDO Carried forward from the city council policy on preservation of existing trees in the landscape manual. Wording revised for clarity and to reflect that these are standards, not guidelines Tree preservation policy divides these standards into those governed by a site plan, and those not governed by a site plan. The standards are the same for both therefore we eliminated the categories. Aurora, CO Page 258

89 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management General Landscaping Standards a. Preservation Site designers shall make all feasible attempts to accommodate existing trees within their design. b. Relocation If tree relocation within the site is attempted, it shall be performed by a professional forester or nurseryman. All available measures shall be taken to ensure the life and good health of the tree(s). c. Mitigation i. A tree mitigation plan shall be specified. Mitigation plans shall consist of an equal replacement of tree caliper inches lost on site. These plans shall indicate the trees that are proposed to comply with mitigation requirements, including the location of replacement trees and the location of trees that are proposed for relocation. No tree for mitigation shall be less than two inches in caliper and shall be of no less quality species than the tree removed, as determined by the Tree Appraisal Guidelines published by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), as amended. For example: two 10-inch caliper trees are removed because of site constraints; the caliper inches lost equals 20 inches. These inches can be replaced by planting five four-inch caliper trees or four five-inch caliper trees. If the trees removed are blue spruce, they could not be replaced with an upright juniper or other tree species that is considered of lesser quality by the ISA Guidelines. ii. Should on-site tree replacement and/or relocation not be possible, tree replacement and/or relocation shall take place through any or all of the following methods: a. Replacement of equal caliper lost on another site; b. Replacement of equal caliper lost on public lands; c. Relocation of trees to public lands; or d. Payment of value of caliper lost to the Tree Planting Fund. iii. Mitigation shall be in addition to standard landscape requirements established by the Director. Trees planted to comply with standard landscape requirements may not be counted as satisfying tree mitigation requirements. In the case of tree removals, the location, species, and caliper of trees to be removed and their replacements shall be included on the landscape/site plan. In the case of tree relocations on site, the placement of the relocated trees shall be included on the landscape/site plan. 3. Projects on City Property Healthy trees within city-owned properties, city-owned or designated street rights-of-way, city-managed properties and easements or city-managed projects, shall not be removed or damaged during construction or development projects, except as a last alternative or to preserve public health and safety. Future planning or alteration of existing city properties, projects or rights-of-way shall make provisions for the preservation of existing trees. If preserving existing trees is not feasible, city departments shall follow the same rules and guidelines set forth in subsection 2, General Standards. 4. Protection of Existing Trees during the Construction Process Site construction shall take into account the life and good health of trees preserved on the site. The following standards shall be followed for tree protection. If these standards are not followed, the full value of the tree will be used in calculations to determine mitigation requirements. a. Protective fencing shall be set up to visibly show the tree protection zone. b. All equipment, including foot traffic shall remain outside of the tree protection zone. Aurora, CO Page 259

90 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management General Landscaping Standards c. If roots greater than one-inch in diameter require removal, a clean cut shall be accomplished using a sharp hand tool. A maximum of two three-inch diameter roots per tree are permitted for removal. The removal of additional roots three inches or greater in diameter requires approval of the City Forester or designee. d. Limb removal shall be accomplished before construction begins. A professional company that is licensed by the City of Aurora Forestry Division shall complete all pruning. e. Designate concrete washout areas. These areas shall not flow into or across the tree protection zone. f. No stockpiling of soil is permitted within the tree protection zone. g. No vehicle parking is permitted within the tree protection zone. h. The soil shall not be compacted within the tree protection zone. i. Existing trees damaged through the construction process shall be immediately repaired and if damaged beyond repair, replaced per the mitigation specifications pursuant to subsection 2.c.iii. The restoration plan for these trees shall follow that approved through the site plan submittal. 5. Interruption and Maintenance of Drainageways a. Drainage plans for individual sites shall not alter the supply of water to existing stands of trees if the longevity of those trees is dependent upon the flows. If the drainage of the site requires altering the existing supply of water, some alternative form through the use of irrigation shall be available from the time the existing watering source is eliminated. b. These standards shall not preclude standard maintenance of drainageways necessary to ensure the free flow of storm water. These standards protect those trees that do not interfere with the flow of storm drainage. Drainageways shall be maintained at the density of trees for which they were designed and future drainageways shall be designed, as far as economically feasible, to consider preservation of mature stands of trees. If preservation is not possible, mitigation and/or replacement shall be accomplished, pursuant to subsection 2.c.iii. 6. Timing for Tree Mitigation Activities a. Tree preservation and/or mitigation may be accomplished at any time during the development process. The timing of these activities is especially critical when moving trees from one location to another. The City Forester, or designee, shall determine the conditions that will ensure the optimal success for tree relocation, preservation or mitigation. b. When feasible, the decision to relocate trees will be made after all planning process requirements are completed. In cases where conditions necessitate the relocation of trees before all planning processes are complete, the Developer and adjoining property owners shall be notified that these activities do not guarantee project approval and that these activities are undertaken at the Developer s risk. 7. Additional Requirements for Black Forest Area 1120 The following additional standards apply to lands in the Black Forest area. If these standards conflict with those in subsections 1 through 6 above, the provisions of this Subsection 7 shall be applied From current Article 14, Division 6. This section largely carried forward with minimal changes. Removed , relationship to existing regulations since the tree preservation policy was integrated into this proposed draft. Aurora, CO Page 260

91 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management General Landscaping Standards a. Intent 1121 The standards in this Section B.7 are intended to protect the Black Forest area s unique ecosystem of non-mountainous extensions of Ponderosa Pine onto the high plains; protect the wildlife habitat created by its high quality Gambel Oak and Ponderosa Pines; and to achieve additional benefits of mature tree preservation, including shade and evaporative cooling, absorption of carbon dioxide and ozone, reducing soil erosion, increasing real properties, and enhancing the visual appeal of the area. The standards for the Black Forest Area are enacted to: i. Maintain a sustainable tree cover within the Black Forest by locating new development in a manner that preserves existing trees to the greatest extent feasible; ii. Protect existing trees during development from the impacts of nearby construction; and iii. Provide standards governing the removal, relocation, and monitoring of trees that cannot be preserved in their original location. b. Applicability and Exemptions 1122 This subsection applies to that portion of the Black Forest located in Aurora as defined in the Definitions. Exemptions include: i. Trees that are diseased or constitute a threat to the public health and safety; and ii. Routine forestry management and fire safety practices in accordance with the Colorado State Forest's Forest Management Plan guidelines and developed by a professional forester. c. Development Review 1123 Any development activities and/or submittal of development applications to the city within the Black Forest shall include a tree protection plan in order to preserve existing Ponderosa Pine trees and associated Gambel Oak shrub vegetation to the greatest extent feasible. Development activities shall not result in the removal of any Black Forest trees and shrubs, except in accordance with this section. i. Plan Requirements Any development activities or proposed development applications that involve disturbing the natural surface of the land or making any material change to any structure shall require the submittal of a tree protection plan that conforms to this section and requirements set by the city forester s office. Black Forest trees shall be protected according to the procedures in this section. Following tree protection plan approval, any subsequent development activity requiring approvals or the issuance of any permits shall conform to the plan. Tree protection plans shall include the following: a. An inventory of trees and existing shrub vegetation, including a description of which trees are candidates for preservation, removal, and replanting. The inventory shall include Ponderosa Pine greater than four inches in diameter and all Gambel Oak plants greater than three inches in diameter. b. A construction limit line, which shall include all building, parking, underground utilities, vehicular use areas, and all areas of required cut and fill From current ; very wordy introduction significantly simplified From current Provisions in subsections c through f are from current Waiver provisions deleted to be covered in standard adjustment procedures in administration chapter. Appeal provisions in current were deleted standard appeal procedures will apply. Penalty provisions in current we deleted and standard penalties will apply. Aurora, CO Page 261

92 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management General Landscaping Standards c. Details and locations of permanent and/or temporary construction protection devices and measures to assure tree protection and normal growth after construction. d. A description of the size and location of all new trees to be planted as part of the landscape design of the proposed project. e. A conservation escrow account to collect funds from the owner or representatives to ensure compliance with the tree preservation measures described in this section. The amount to be collected will be based upon the Guide to Plan Appraisal, published by the International Society of Arboriculture. This figure will be assessed as an average diameter calculated from the total inventoried number of only those trees remaining in place and potentially impacted by construction activities. It does not include those trees outside of the construction limit line and, therefore, not impacted by construction activities as well as those that are to be removed or replanted according to plan specification. The amount will be returned to the owner upon completion of construction activities and implementation of tree protection plan requirements. If these measures are not complied with, the city shall use these funds to mitigate tree loss. ii. Plan Approval Review and approval of the tree protection plan according to requirements set by the Director and Forestry Division shall be completed by the city forester's office before the commencement of any development or planned development activity. Plans will be approved, approved with condition, or denied based upon conformity with the requirements of this division. It shall be unlawful to violate the provisions of an approved tree protection plan. iii. Plan Amendment The city forester may amend any approved tree protection plan after receipt of an application for amendment from a property owner. The amendment shall be approved if the city forester determines that the proposed amendment complies with the requirements of this section. iv. Plan recordation After approval of a tree protection plan, it shall be recorded in the office of the county clerk and recorder and shall be binding on the property owner and the owner's heirs, successors, and assigns. d. Tree Removal and Mitigation i. Tree Removal Black Forest trees and associated vegetation shall not be removed from their existing location due to development or construction activity unless avoidance through modifications of proposed development plans and design is not feasible. Tree removal is unlawful unless it is pursuant to an approved tree protection plan. ii. Tree Mitigation Trees to be relocated shall be replanted at a suitable location on the site. Candidate trees for replanting will be greater than four inches for Ponderosa Pine and three inches for Gambel Oak, but less than 10 inches in diameter measured at a point one foot above natural grade. When such replanting is not feasible, removed trees shall be replaced at a ratio of one-to-one with an approved single tree of similar size or combination of not more than six trees measured at a point one foot above the natural grade with a cumulative total diameter equal to the diameter of the tree to be replaced. Mitigated trees shall be measured per the Aurora, CO Page 262

93 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management General Landscaping Standards e. Monitoring Guide to Plant Appraisal. Appropriate measures shall be undertaken to protect trees from construction activities In addition to protection during new construction pursuant to Section 4.7.X [general landscaping standard for protection during construction], the following monitoring requirements apply to ensure that trees will be retained after construction is completed. i. On-site supervision by the property owner or representative to ensure tree protection actions; ii. Pre-construction conferences between the property owner or representative and the city forester or designee; iii. Monthly meetings between construction management and the city forester to review progress of the monitoring program; and iv. Final site inspection to verify that protection provisions have been followed. f. Notice to Prospective Purchasers 1125 Vendors of real property located within the Black Forest shall provide the following notice to prospective purchasers and cause such notice to be recorded with the Clerk and Recorder of Arapahoe County: NOTICE: The property described as (legal description and address) is located within an area governed by the Black Forest tree preservation ordinance, a tree protection plan, and is subject to the requirements Aurora City Code Section B, as applicable. C. Artificial Turf Standards Materials Artificial turf shall be of a type known as cut pile infill and shall be manufactured from polypropylene, polyethylene, or a blend of polypropylene and polyethylene fibers stitched onto a polypropylene or polyurethane meshed or hole-punched backing. Hole-punched backings shall have holes spaced in a uniform grid pattern with spacing not to exceeding four inches by six inches on center. 2. Installation Artificial turf shall be installed over a compacted and porous road base material and shall be anchored at all edges and seams. Seams shall be glued and not sewn. An infill medium consisting of ground rubber, ground coal slag, clean washed sand and ground rubber, or other approved mixture shall be brushed into the fibers to insure that the fibers remain in an upright position and to provide ballast that will help hold the turf in place and provide a cushioning effect. 3. Slope Restrictions The installation of artificial turf on slopes greater than 6.6 percent shall require the approval of the city engineer and shall meet requirements of the Public Works Department Maintenance provisions moved to general landscaping standards From current From current , revised for clarity. Staff is reviewing this section and evaluating the need for further standards to address stains and odors. Aurora, CO Page 263

94 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management General Landscaping Standards 4. General Appearance Artificial turf shall be installed and maintained to effectively simulate the appearance of a well-maintained lawn. The Director shall maintain and make available for public inspection a sample of various artificial turf products that meet this standard of appearance. 5. In Single-Family Detached and Two-Family Dwellings 1127 Artificial turf may replace natural turf in front, side, and rear yards, but must meet minimum and maximum percentage requirements found in Table In All Other Uses 1128 Artificial turf shall be considered a non-living material and its use as such shall be limited as specified in subsection A.4 (Living Material Requirements). More specifically, the quantity of artificial turf that may be installed shall be determined in combination with all other natural non-living materials so that the combination of these materials shall not exceed 50 percent of the landscape area as measured within property lines. 7. Prohibited Use 1129 The use of indoor or outdoor plastic or nylon carpeting or other materials or combinations of materials as a replacement for artificial turf or natural turf shall be prohibited. D. Administrative Modifications to Planting Requirements Generally Any requirement to install a particular type, size, or amount of landscape materials may be modified by the Director if: a. The area where the landscaping is required to be installed contains high voltage power lines, large pipelines, or other similar utility structures; or b. Where other natural or manmade site constraints prohibit the installation of trees, provided that the developer substitutes of ten shrubs for one tree, up to a maximum of 30 percent of the required trees; 1131 c. The Director makes a written finding during the development approval process that landscaped areas left in their natural and undisturbed state would be a greater amenity to the development than a formally landscaped area. Irrigation is not required for undisturbed natural areas; however, temporary irrigation is required to establish disturbed and restored natural areas. 2. Tree Equivalents The following tree equivalents are provided to allow design flexibility as provided in this Section 4.7, and are at the option of the applicant. One tree equivalent shall be equal to: a. One two and one-half inch caliper deciduous shade tree. b. One two-inch caliper ornamental tree. c. One six-foot tall evergreen tree. d. 12 five-gallon deciduous and/or evergreen shrubs per one two and one-half inch caliper tree From (D) From (D) From (D) From current Added the limitation to a maximum of 30 percent of the required trees. Aurora, CO Page 264

95 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management General Landscaping Standards e. 10 five-gallon deciduous and/or evergreen shrubs per one two-inch caliper tree. 3. Shrub Equivalents The following shrub equivalents for both deciduous and evergreen species are provided to allow design flexibility as provided in this Section 4.7. a. One five-gallon shrub equivalent shall be equal to three one-gallon perennials. b. One five-gallon shrub equivalent shall be equal to three one-gallon ornamental grasses. c. 10 five-gallon shrubs are equal to one two-inch caliper tree equivalent. d. 12 five-gallon shrubs are equal to one two and one-half inch caliper tree equivalent. E. Maintenance and Management of Landscaping 1132 All landscaping shall be maintained in a neat, clean, and healthy condition. Maintenance shall include proper pruning, mowing of lawns, weeding, removal of litter, fertilizing, replacement of dead plants, and irrigation of all live landscaping. All replacement plants shall conform to the city's then-current landscaping standards. 1. Replacement of Dead Landscaping If any of the landscaping required to be retained or replanted as part of an approved landscaping or tree protection plan should die, the property owner shall replace the trees within six months of the issuance to the owner of a notice to replace. Trees that are diseased or constitute a threat to the public health and safety shall be exempted from these regulations and shall be subject to the requirements of Chapter 142, Article II, Section (Removal or treatment when infected or infested) Re-Vegetation 1134 All areas disturbed during construction shall be re-vegetated. Permanent re-vegetation shall comply with requirements outlined below. 3. Seeding of Disturbed Land for Future Construction Phases 1135 All future development areas in phased development projects that have been disturbed by grading shall be seeded and stabilized in accordance with requirements found in the City of Aurora Roadway Specifications Manual Chapter Erosion and Sediment Control Associated with Construction Activities 1136 to prevent wind and water erosion for the time the site remains without development. All such areas shall be shown on the landscape plan and information concerning tilling, seeding methods, seed mixtures, watering, and mulching shall also be shown. 4. Re-establishment of Non-Irrigated Native, Dryland, and Restorative Grasses 1137 a. Generally All new development and changes to existing development proposing the seeding or re-seeding of non-irrigated areas with native grasses, dryland grasses, or restorative grasses where the native or naturalized landscape is intended to remain as the permanent condition on lands that will not be conveyed to the city shall submit a revegetation plan and comply with all requirements as provided in this section. The revegetation plan must meet the requirements of City Code related to erosion and 1132 From current These materials may be relocated to Section 4.13 (Operations and Maintenance) Provision from tree protection provisions made generally applicable citywide From current common open space standards, (D). relocated for clarity and broader application. Deleted temporary revegetation and reference to the drought emergency section. That is already sufficiently addressed in the applicability section From current Appropriate reference; to be confirmed by Public Works Department From current Aurora, CO Page 265

96 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management General Landscaping Standards sediment control as found in Sections and All lands that will be conveyed to the city shall comply with re-vegetation requirements, standards, and specifications as determined by the Department of Parks and Open Space. b. Establishment and Acceptance i. Initial acceptance inspections. At the end of the first growing season, to qualify for an initial acceptance inspection, the seed must have been in the ground from June 1 through September 30, regardless of the seeding date. ii. Initial acceptance. Initial acceptance shall be granted when it is determined that a non-irrigated seeded area of native or naturalized grass meets the following requirements: a. Germination is visibly evident when self-sustaining and healthy stands of grass are in place and evenly distributed throughout the seeded area. b. Dominant vegetation in the seeded area is grass and there are no large continuous bare spots greater than nine square feet. c. Noxious weeds are absent from the area. iii. Conditional acceptance. At the close of the second full growing season from the time of seeding, the area seeded will be examined for conditional acceptance. Conditional acceptance shall be based on the following: a. There is a uniform and even distribution of healthy plants of the specified grass species with grass being the dominant plant. b. There is an absence of noxious weeds. c. There are no areas of bare dirt greater than four square feet. d. There is evidence as found that a vegetation and weed management program has been in place and has been effective in establishing a sustainable stand of grass. iv. Full acceptance. Generally, after a period of not less than three full growing seasons from the time of seeding, the grass stand should resemble native or undisturbed stands of grass in the same area or in areas with similar elevation and soil type found in the same county. More specifically, full acceptance shall be granted when it has been determined that the specified grasses meet the following requirements: a. There is an estimated 85 percent coverage of grass species over the seeded area and that grasses are the dominant species. b. No area over three square feet is bare or without grass and the area is uniformly vegetated. c. There are no visible signs of erosion and/or silt deposits. d. There are no noxious weeds present. c. Monitoring and Stewardship Program A program for erosion control and the control of noxious weeds shall be developed and shown on the plan. i. Programs. A maintenance plan addressing requirements for weeding, herbicide applications, erosion control, and mowing shall also be shown. The plan shall outline all required maintenance operations for the first, second, and third years, and include long term maintenance operations for successive years following seeding. ii. Fencing. Temporary fencing may be required for the protection of fragile reseeded areas. iii. Initial notification. No later than 30 days following placement of seed, a letter shall be sent to the Director indicating the seed has been placed in accordance with the plans and specifications. Aurora, CO Page 266

97 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management General Landscaping Standards iv. Yearly report. No later than October 15, after the first full growing season following seeding and for each following year until full acceptance has been granted, the owner shall provide to the Director a yearly report. The report shall consist of a description of the turf's condition and photographs of each seeded area. A follow up inspection may be required. d. Re-seeding If after receipt of any of the required reports or on-site inspections it is determined that germination of any seeded area does not comply with subsection (C), Establishment and Acceptance, The Director of Planning or Director of Parks and Open Space may require re-seeding. e. Irrigation Requirements and Supplemental Irrigation When it is determined at the time of initial acceptance that a poor or substandard stand of grass resulting in areas where minimal or no germination has occurred or if the turf does not comply with establishment requirements, the Director or Director of Parks and Open Space may require supplemental irrigation until the turf meets the requirements for establishment and acceptance. Supplemental irrigation shall consist of any permanent or temporary system that is connected to the city water or city reuse water supply. Hand watering or watering by truck in areas greater than one acre shall not be permitted as the only means of irrigation. f. Trees and Shrubs Located within Re-vegetated Areas All trees and shrubs located within non-irrigated turf areas shall be watered by a permanent underground automatic irrigation system except in re-established wetland areas. g. Exemptions Anyone who is not conveying land to the city and installs an underground automatic irrigation system in accordance with current code requirements shall be exempt from Subsection c above. A separate re-vegetation plan will not be required. The applicant shall also be exempt from the requirements of Subsection b except that the initial acceptance requirements of paragraphs i and ii shall still apply. h. Procedures and Practices The following procedures and practices have proven to be viable for the successful establishment of non-irrigated native, dryland, and restorative grasses. When not specifically required, it is highly recommended that they be followed. i. Soil characteristics and identification. Soil analysis is recommended and should be shown for each re-vegetated area on the plans. Soils tests for all areas to be seeded or re-seeded are best obtained following replacement of top soil to determine available organics and remaining native seed source. Tests should be completed for each soils association as found in the applicable county's Soil Survey, by the United States Department of Agriculture, Soil Conservation Service, in cooperation with Colorado Agricultural Experiment Station. Include test location, chemical analysis, soil amendment recommendations. Justify seed mix selection on soils test results. In general, seed mixes should contain a minimum of three species. ii. Soil amendment requirements. Soil amendment requirements shall be determined during soil analysis and shown on the re-vegetation plan. iii. Site preparation. The following steps shall be completed for site preparation: a. Salvage topsoil. Remove and stockpile top six inches of topsoil prior to beginning overlot grading. Following grading, the seedbed should be ripped and/or disced to remove compaction. The saved topsoil should then be spread evenly over the area to be seeded. Aurora, CO Page 267

98 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Screening of Service Areas and Equipment b. Grading. Show contours at finish grade at one or two foot intervals. c. Soil amendments. Add amendments as described in the soils analysis to each area that will be seeded. iv. Seeding methods and slope limitations. The following seeding methods are recommended for the following slope conditions and may vary depending on soil conditions and exposure: a. Drilling. Seed shall be drilled on slopes less than or equal to 3:1. b. Broadcasting. Broadcast seed shall be hand raked or dragged to a depth as may be required by the seed. The seed rate should be increased by three times the drill seed rates. Seed may be broadcast whenever any of the following conditions exist: i. Slopes greater than 3:1; or ii. Broken or rocky ground; or iii. Small and/or inaccessible areas. c. Hydro seeding. Hydro or Hydraulic seeding may be used in areas with greater than 3:1 slopes that are not suited for drilling or are too large to be practical for broadcasting. Hydro or Hydraulic seeding is not an acceptable alternative to drill seeding. It is recommended that seeding and mulching do not occur in one application. Seed rates should be two times drill seed rates. v. Seeding and timing. At the risk of the owner, seeding may occur any time when weather conditions permit except when the ground is frozen. It is highly recommended that seeding of non-irrigated native, dryland, and restorative grasses occur between October 1 and May 1 to take advantage of natural moisture. Show seeding schedule on the plan. vi. Mulching and erosion control. Mulches shall be applied in accordance with requirements established during soils analysis and may consist of nursery crops, straw, hydraulic mulches, and other approved organic materials. Hydro mulch is required on slopes exceeding 3:1. Application of erosion control netting may be required on slopes exceeding 3:1 where surface drainage is present. Requirements for erosion and sedimentation control as stated in Section 138 and Public Works document "Roadway Specifications Manual, Chapter 45" shall apply. Some form of mulching is required on all sites SCREENING OF SERVICE AREAS AND EQUIPMENT A. Utilities and Communication Lines New development and redevelopment valued at more than 50 percent of the assessed value of the property shall place utilities and communication lines underground. The undergrounding requirements shall apply to all electrical, gas, mechanical, ductwork, and major plumbing lines, but does not apply to roof- or wall-mounted antennas and vent openings, or alternative energy systems or devices. 2. Meters or similar utility apparatus attached to the building façade shall be screened from view utilizing landscaping or other architectural screening method that is integrated into the overall building and landscaping design. Such apparatus shall not be mounted on or in front of the primary building façade Appropriate reference to be confirmed by Public Works Department New standards based on another jurisdiction. Staff still considering these regulations with potential options to provide squarefootage thresholds for redevelopment, or to differentiate between subareas A, B, and C. Aurora, CO Page 268

99 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Screening of Service Areas and Equipment B. Single-Family and Two-Family Residential Mechanical Screening Standards Roof-mounted mechanical equipment, except for alternative energy systems or devices, is prohibited on single-family and two-family dwellings. 2. Ground-mounted mechanical equipment shall be located in the rear or side yard, and screened from public view. C. Multifamily, Mixed-Use, Commercial, and Industrial Developments 1. Mechanical Equipment Screening Standards a. Roof-mounted mechanical equipment shall be screened from public view from the street centerline by a parapet or similar feature that is part of the building s architectural design. b. Ground-mounted mechanical equipment shall not be located between a primary building façade and a street or public open space and shall be screened from public view by landscaping or by a decorative wall that is similar appearance and materials to the materials used on the closest wall of the primary building Service, Loading, and Storage Area Screening Standards a. In General 1142 i. Service, loading, trash/recycling facilities, and storage areas visible from residences, public or private streets, public open spaces or trails shall be screened by fences, walls, landscaping, berms, or any combination of those items. If walls are used, they shall not exceed eight feet in height and shall be similar in appearance and materials to the closest wall of the primary structure they serve. If screening shrubs are used, they shall be a minimum of four feet in height at installation and shall provide a minimum six-foot high screen when fully grown. ii. In addition, screening shall meet any additional requirements for specific facilities in Subsections 2.b through 2.X below, and in case of a conflict between the general standards in Subsection 2.a, the requirements of Subsections 2.b and 2.c, as applicable, shall apply. b. Trash Facilities All trash facilities, including new trash facilities placed on an existing developed site, shall be large enough to accommodate both a trash dumpster and a recycling dumpster and shall be completely screened from view of public streets and adjacent properties using one of the techniques listed in Subsection 2.a above. Trash facilities shall be screened on three sides by a minimum six-foot masonry wall enclosed by evergreen plantings. The access opening shall be oriented so that the container is not visible from adjacent properties or public streets and shall have an opaque gate. Chain-link gates with metal cladding are prohibited. c. Outdoor Storage 1143 Where outdoor storage is permitted in Commercial, Mixed-use, or Industrial districts, the following standards shall apply. i. Outdoor storage shall be located behind required front setbacks. ii. All outdoor storage facilities for manufacturing equipment, fuel, raw materials, subassemblies, finished goods and defective or repairable goods shall be 1140 New standards Vague compatible standard was replaced From current , revised to include storage areas. Consolidates similar requirements from several locations From current (D). Aurora, CO Page 269

100 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Fence and Wall Regulations 3. Enclosure 1144 enclosed by an opaque fence, berm, wall, or dense planting of shrubs that completely conceals the view of those materials from the locations listed in Subsection 2.a above. Chain link fencing may not be used for this purpose. Every use, including storage of materials and equipment related to that use, shall be operated within a completely enclosed structure or screened area, unless this Code or a development approval or variance related to the use specifically permits the use, or some portions of the use, to take place outside an enclosed structure. This requirement shall not apply to the movement or conveyance of materials or to operable heavy equipment as long as all requirements for outdoor storage in Section XX [now (I)] are met FENCE AND WALL REGULATIONS 1146 A. Applicability 1147 All fences, walls, hedges, shall conform to the provisions of this Section 4.7.7, except: 1. Fences and barricades around construction sites, which are governed by the International Building Code as amended and adopted by the city. 2. Landscaping berms installed without fences. 3. Fences at parks, open space, and schools, where such uses are owned by public agencies, except that fences abutting city-owned open space shall follow the requirements for fences along open areas in Subsection G below. B. General Standards Avoidance of Traffic Hazards Notwithstanding other provisions of this Section 4.7.7, no fence or hedge will be permitted in a location that the City Traffic Engineer determines will create a traffic hazard. 2. Sight Triangle The location and height of all fences and hedges shall conform to the sight triangle requirements of Section F. 3. Obstruction of Fire Hydrant or Fire Department Connection No person shall place or keep any post, fence, wall, retaining wall, tree, shrub, hedge, or any other structure or planting within five feet of a fire hydrant or Fire Department connection. This prohibition shall apply to a distance of seven feet above the five foot radius area. Any variation from this subsection shall require written approval from the fire/life safety group within the building division Prevention of Fence Canyons 1150 For existing subdivisions where the rear of the lots abut a street frontage, an HOA, Metropolitan District, or other approved quasi-public entity shall maintain a high-quality fence or wall set back no less than 35 feet from the flowline of the street From current (C)3.a,, , and ,with text clarified This provision may be moved to the beginning of Subsection 3.3 (Use-specific standards), to clarify that it applies to all uses. Staff is still evaluating whether more districts should be excluded from this requirement, which is standard, but seldom enforced well Vague purpose statement from was deleted as not useful. Awning regulations previously in this section are now covered as encroachments to the dimensional standards From current From current and Text simplified New standard to mitigate fence canyons and to match double-frontage lots in the subdivision standards C. Aurora, CO Page 270

101 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Fence and Wall Regulations C. Along E-470, I-225, and I In all residential developments adjacent to E-470, a minimum eight-foot high solid sound attenuation wall shall be constructed along the development's E-470 frontage. Such fences shall meet all the material and design requirements for fences along arterial streets. D. Along Arterial Streets Setbacks Fences shall be set back at least the following distances: a. Four feet from the back of the adjacent sidewalk when the walk is detached. b. Eight feet from the back of the adjacent sidewalk when the walk is attached. c. Eight feet from the street flow line where no sidewalk exists or is proposed. 2. Allowable Materials a. Brick, stone, and integrally colored decorative concrete masonry units (CMUs); b. Exterior stucco; c. Pre-cast concrete panels and rails; d. Wrought iron and other metals simulating the appearance of wrought iron; e. Plastic fences; and f. Closed-style wood fences, but only in industrial zones and only if located outside of the required buffer yards. 3. Design Standards a. Brick, stone, and decorative concrete masonry unit (CMU) fences shall meet the design requirements shown in Figure b. Stucco style fences shall be defined as fences similar in exterior appearance to masonry fences as shown in Figure , but with an exterior surface of cement plaster over an interior of masonry, pre-cast concrete, or other material of similar durability. c. Wrought iron style fences shall meet the definition and design requirements shown in Figure d. Pre-cast concrete fences shall be composed of integrally colored concrete and convincingly replicate the appearance of brick, stone, and CMU fences as shown in Figure e. Concrete open-style post and rail fences shall meet all the appearance and design requirements listed in Figure f. Plastic fences are allowed provided they meet all the material, installation, and design requirements of Section MM. Plastic fence designs simulating closed style common board or dog-eared wood fences are not allowed along arterial and collector streets, but are allowed elsewhere. g. Wood open-style post and rail fences are only allowed on collector streets, and only if they meet all the appearance and design requirements of Figure Where wood closed-style wood fences are allowed, they shall be an upgraded design and meet all the design requirements of Figure Extended to also apply to I-225 and I Consolidates content from current From current , , and Table Aurora, CO Page 271

102 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Fence and Wall Regulations Figure : Street Frontage Fence Regulations update graphic 4. Masonry Columns a. All fence types along arterial and collector street shall incorporate masonry columns of a minimum cross-section of 18 by 18 inches. Aurora, CO Page 272

103 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Fence and Wall Regulations b. For brick, stone, stucco, CMU, or pre-cast concrete fences: Columns shall be placed at all fence corners, points of transitions to other fence styles along a run of fence, and fence termination points. c. For all other fence types: Columns shall be placed at a minimum spacing of 60 feet on center, as well as at all fence corners, transitions to other fence styles along a run of fence, and fence termination points. d. Exception: Fences on the perimeter of single-family and two-family dwellings with an abutting lot width of 60 feet or greater may be placed at lot corners rather than at 60 feet intervals. See Figure Special Requirements for Closed-Style Fences Over Three Feet in Height a. Maximum length of continuous fence shall not exceed 1,500 feet. b. Maximum length of unbroken fence plane within length of fence shall not exceed 500 feet. c. Maximum percentage of total fence length along street frontage between arterials shall not exceed 80 percent. E. Along Collector Streets 1. Setbacks Fences shall be set back at least the following distances: a. Four feet from the back of the adjacent sidewalk when the walk is detached. b. Eight feet from the back of the adjacent sidewalk when the walk is attached. c. Eight feet from the street flow line where no sidewalk exists or is proposed. 2. Allowable Materials All materials allowed along arterial streets, plus: a. Open-style two or three rail wood fences; and b. Upgraded closed-style wood fences Design Standards Design standards for fences along Arterials in subsection D.33 apply. 4. Masonry Columns Masonry column standards for arterials in subsection F.4 apply 5. Special Requirements for Closed-Style Fences Over Three Feet in Height a. Maximum length of continuous fence shall not exceed 1,000 feet. b. Maximum length of unbroken fence plane within length of fence shall not exceed 320 feet. c. Maximum percentage of total fence length along street frontage between arterials shall not exceed 60 percent. F. Along Other Public, Private Streets and Alleys Allowable Materials All materials allowed along collector streets, plus: Exclusion of FDP and GDP areas was deleted Additional standards for All Other Fences deleted as inconsistent with other standards in this section. Aurora, CO Page 273

104 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Fence and Wall Regulations a. Chain link fencing is allowed only along alleys. Chain link fencing in non-residential areas must be vinyl-clad. 2. Design Standards 1156 The design requirements for fences along Arterial and Collector streets, except that: a. Upgraded wood fences are allowed in all zone districts provided they meet the design standards shown in Figure b. Wood open-style two and three rail fences are allowed, provided they meet the design requirements of Figure G. Along Open Areas Fences adjacent to public drainageways, or adjacent to areas counting toward the Parks and Open Space Department's dedication requirements, such as open space, parks, or trails, shall meet the design standards shown in Figure Fences adjacent to public golf courses or reservoirs shall be an open wrought iron style with masonry columns, or other styles or column spacing as may be specified by the Director of Parks and Open Space Screening requirements of Section shall Figure : Fences along Open Areas still apply. H. Interior Fences in Non-residential Developments 1. Fences and walls on any property boundary shall be constructed of brick, decorative masonry, stucco, or decorative metals. 2. Fences and walls shall be constructed of materials consistent with those used on primary structures. 3. No fence or wall shall exceed a maximum height of nine feet. 4. In Subareas B and C, fences 36 inches in height or shorter shall be set back at least four feet from the back of any adjacent sidewalk or eight feet from the street flowline where no sidewalk exists or is proposed. 5. Opaque fences shall not be located in required lot frontage buffer areas. 6. Fences may be placed on side or rear lots lines. I. Interior Fences in Multifamily Developments 1158 The following standards apply to all multifamily development in Residential and Mixed-use districts. 1. Location and Design 1155 Inclusion of FDP and GDP areas was deleted. Exclusion of E-470 residential areas was deleted Inclusion of dog eared, common board, and chain link fences was deleted Provisions for exceptions to screen views replaced by cross-reference to standard Replaces standards from E-470 district, Section Aurora, CO Page 274

105 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Fence and Wall Regulations Table Fence Location and Height: Other Residential Uses Standard Type Height Setback 2. Design Requirements Maximum six feet except along E-470 frontages, where an 8 foot tall sound fence is required. Minimum four feet from back of adjacent sidewalk; eight feet from street flowline where no sidewalk exists or is proposed. Closed style fences shall be setback a minimum of the required buffers per subsection A. Hedge six inches from back of sidewalk; Edge of plants with thorns, spines, or prickles shall be setback a minimum of four feet from a public right-of-way or private sidewalk. a. All fences that face a public or private street shall include at least one column for every 60 lineal feet and one column at every fence corner and dead end. The columns shall be faced with brick, real or artificial stone, decorative iron, stucco, or integrally colored concrete masonry units. This requirement shall not apply to fences in side yards between single-family homes. b. Where constructed of wood, fences shall have a top rail. c. Adjacent to E-470, a minimum 8-foot high decorative masonry sound wall shall be constructed along the E-470 frontage. J. Residential Developments 1159 The standards in Table and Figures and apply to all Single-Family Detached, Single-Family Attached, Two-Family, Co-housing, and Cottage Development residential uses. In case of a conflict with other standards in this Section 4.7.7, these standards shall govern. 1. Location and Height Table Fence Location and Height: Residential Uses Standard Front Yards Height Setback Side Yards Height Setback Rear Yards Height Setback Requirements Maximum 42 inches (and 50 percent opaque, per subsection 2 below). Fence 18 inches minimum from back of sidewalk, unless larger setback required per by another provision of this UDO. Hedge six inches from back of sidewalk; Edge of plants with thorns, spines, or prickles shall be setback a minimum of four feet from a public right-of-way or private sidewalk. Maximum six feet if fence is behind the front building line. Fence four feet minimum from back of sidewalk; Fences meeting the height requirements for front yards shall be setback a minimum of 18 inches from back of sidewalk. Fence abutting an adjacent lot s front yard shall meet the front yard fence requirements. Hedge six inches from back of sidewalk; Edge of plants with thorns, spines, or prickles shall be setback a minimum of four feet from a public right-of-way or private sidewalk. Maximum six feet Four feet minimum from back of sidewalk; eight feet minimum from street flowline where no sidewalk exists or is proposed. Hedge six inches from back of sidewalk; Edge of plants with thorns, spines, or prickles shall be setback a minimum of four feet from a public right-of-way or private sidewalk. Reverse Corner Lots Height Hedges shall be trimmed to a maximum height of 42 inches From current ; replaces (d)1; extended to apply to co-housing and cottage developments. Aurora, CO Page 275

106 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Fence and Wall Regulations Table Fence Location and Height: Residential Uses Standard Setback Requirements Fence that meets the front yard requirements shall be setback a minimum of 18 inches from back of sidewalk. Side yard fence shall be setback a minimum of 10 feet from the back of sidewalk adjacent to the street, but in no case less than 15 feet from the street flowline. Hedges shall be setback a minimum of six inches from the public right-or-way or sidewalk; Edge of plants with thorns, spines, or prickles shall be setback a minimum of four feet from a public right-of-way or private sidewalk. 2. Design and Opacity In front yards, only a closed fence with a maximum height of 21 inches, or on open style fence with a maximum height of 42 inches, or a combination of the two is permitted. Open style fences in front yards may have a solid base not to exceed 21 inches in height. Where a solid base is proposed as part of the open fence, only stucco and masonry materials are allowed. A wood base is not allowed a. Open style picket fences that are at least 50 percent opaque are permitted in front yard. b. Solid base fences with bases no taller than 21 inches above grade are permitted in front yards. Solid base fences or picket fences taller than 21 inches are not permitted in front yards. c. Fencing on reverse corner lots shall meet the requirements shown in Figure K. Swimming Pools 1161 The swimming pool area shall be completely enclosed by a fence not less than four feet in height with openings of not more than four inches. The fence shall be located not more than 100 feet from the edge of the pool. All gates shall be equipped with self-latching and self-closing devices placed on the inside top of the gate. See the International Building Code for additional restrictions on height, vertical member spacing, and access gates. Chain link fences are prohibited From current (B)1.c From current (A). Figure : Sample Front Yard Fence Designs Figure : Fence Setbacks for Reverse Corner Lots update graphic Aurora, CO Page 276

107 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Fence and Wall Regulations L. Parks, Open Space and Tennis Courts 1162 Fences may be up to nine feet in height by right, and may exceed 9 feet if the City Engineer determines that the additional height will not create a traffic hazard. M. Plastic Fencing Types Permitted Only fencing made from a base of polyvinyl chloride (often referred to as vinyl fencing) and fencing made from a base of high density polyethylene (often referred to as HDPE fencing) are permitted without prior approval. Other types of plastic fencing may be approved by the Director if they have similar appearance and durability of structure and appearance over time. 2. Materials All plastic fencing shall include additives for strength and ultraviolet inhibitors to protect the finish, and shall have a manufacturer's warranty for workmanship and materials for at least 20 years Rails and Posts Plastic fence posts shall be constructed from extruded material a minimum of inch thick, and horizontal rails shall be constructed from extruded material a minimum of 0.9 inch thick. Horizontal rails for picket, ornamental and privacy fencing shall include internal plastic ribbing or steel reinforcement for strength. Rails and posts for plastic fencing may are permitted to be internally reinforced with metal strengtheners or constructed with plastic coated metal components to improve their structural qualities. Wood or any wood product as a strengthening or structural component for plastic fencing is not permitted. 4. Installation Plastic fencing may be routed to accept posts, rails, and pickets without the use of fasteners. All metal fasteners and brackets shall be stainless steel, and painted the same color of the fence if not covered and concealed by a trim piece. Fasteners used on the outside face of the fence shall be covered and shall not dimple the board surface. All vertical plastic fence posts shall be filled with concrete to at least grade level. All vertical plastic fence posts and pickets shall have decorative top caps. N. Barbed Wire Fences 1. Location. Barbed wire is not allowed along arterial and collector streets or in any residential district or the residential use area in a mixed-use district. As an exception, in industrial zones or in the case of public or private utilities in any zone, barbed wire may be allowed if it is located outside of required buffer yards. 2. Height. Where allowed, barbed wire shall be installed at a height of at least six feet six inches above the highest adjoining grade and the barbed wire shall not bend or project outward from the fence. Where a fence encloses a public or private utility, barbed wire or similar materials shall be installed above fences at a height of not less than six feet nor more than nine feet above the highest adjoining grade. 3. Temporary permit. In any residential district or residential use area in a mixed-use district, an applicant may apply to the Director for a permit allowing a temporary construction fence with barbed wire or similar materials. This permit shall specify the area for which a barbed wire fence or fences constructed with similar materials will be installed. The permit shall limit the duration of the fence to the period of construction within the development From current (B) Reorganized for clarity. Administration provisions removed for location in administration chapter Independent testing requirement deleted. Aurora, CO Page 277

108 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Fence and Wall Regulations O. Fences Constructed Under the City Masonry Fence Program General Requirements All portions and side of a fence shall be finished with the same quantity and quality of materials as the predominate side facing the street. 2. Minimum Column Spacing Except for panelized construction, all masonry fences shall include masonry columns with a minimum cross-section of 24 inches by 24 inches placed at a maximum interval of 60 feet along the length of the fence. Additional columns shall also be required at all fence corners and turning points and at all fence termination points. Where panelized construction is used, the same requirements shall be met, except that the maximum column spacing interval shall be reduced to 30 feet. 3. Color All fence colors shall be integral to the material. Fence materials shall not be painted or stained with exterior coat systems. All colors shall be earth tones such as tans, browns, and traditional red brick tones. Uncolored concrete is not permitted. 4. Masonry Unit Sizes When brick and concrete masonry are used, individual unit sizes shall not exceed 16 inches in length by eight inches in height, except that units with a height in excess of four inches shall not constitute more than 30 percent of the total wall surface. When panelized construction is used, the design of individual panels shall replicate the appearance of individual unit sizes as described above, or of a fence constructed of irregularly shaped stones. 5. Texture Fences consisting of masonry units no more than four inches in height shall have a surface texture resembling traditional brick. Masonry units in excess of four inches in height shall have a decorative split-face texture. Units designed to resemble stone shall have a natural-looking stone texture. Panelized materials shall duplicate the textures of masonry and stone units as described above. 6. Concrete Split Rail Pre-cast concrete split rail and other open rail fence designs are not approved under this program for use along streets. P. Substitute Materials Materials other than those required by this subsection may be allowed upon determination by the Director that they are of comparable durability and quality, and have a similar appearance Q. Prohibited Fences, Walls, and Materials 1167 The following types of fences, hedges, and materials are prohibited and cannot be erected, planted, or maintained: 1. Electrically charged fences. 2. Plants that have thorns, spines, or prickles planted or maintained in the public right-ofway or within four feet of a public right-of-way or sidewalk. No other type of hedge shall be planted or maintained with less than a six-inch setback from any sidewalk or public right-of-way This program is currently being evaluated by staff for potential revisions Removed convincingly duplicate from appearance standard From current Aurora, CO Page 278

109 4.7. Landscaping, Screening, and Stormwater Management Fence and Wall Regulations 3. Any sharp pointed fence of any material erected or maintained in residential districts. Picket fences less than six feet six inches in height shall have the top of pickets sawed or rounded to provide a blunt end. 4. Barbed wire fences, except in nonresidential zone districts, construction sites, and for enclosing a public or private utility installation. See subsection N for time and placement limitations on these exceptions. 5. Any fence using concertina wire or similar materials except that government facilities may be exempt if approved by the Director. 6. The following or similar fence materials are prohibited: chicken wire, corrugated metal, fabric materials, fiberboard, garage door panels, plywood, snow fencing, agricultural and miscellaneous materials not commonly associated with residential fences. R. Fence and Wall Construction 1168 All fences shall meet all the following general construction standards: 1. All fences shall meet all applicable building code requirements. 2. All construction materials shall be new and shall not include construction debris or salvaged material. 3. Wood fence posts shall be pressure treated. Cedar and redwood are not required to be pressure treated. 4. All fence posts for fences over 42 inches in height shall be set in circular concrete bases a minimum of two feet deep and one-foot diameter. 5. All wood and plastic fences over 21 inches in height shall conform to the post size and spacing requirements of Table , below. Table Nominal Post Sizes and Spacing for Wood and Plastic Fences 1169 Fence Type Minimum Nominal Post Cross Maximum Fence Post Spacing All other Section Along arterials locations Wood fences Four inches x four inches Five feet Eight feet Four inches x six inches Eight feet Eight feet Plastic fences Four inches x four inches Five feet Five feet Five inches x five inches Eight feet Eight feet 6. Rails and/or posts shall be securely fastened. 7. Pickets and boards shall be securely attached to rails and posts. Wood picket or slat fences over 42 inches in height shall be constructed with a minimum of three, 2 4 horizontal rails and have a minimum nominal dimension for pickets or slats widths of four inches. 8. All brick and masonry fences shall be properly mortared and securely attached. 9. Where chain link fences are permitted, they shall have top rails. All chain-link fences located in the Mixed Use or Non-residential districts along street frontages shall be vinylcoated 10. The finished side of the fence shall face the public right-of-way or private streets or alleys, as applicable From current , general construction requirements Previously Table Aurora, CO Page 279

110 4.8. Building Design Standards Intent S. Gate Standards All gates shall have hardware to secure the gate in a closed position. 2. All gates shall be installed to the maximum fence height at all entrances. 3. All unattended gates shall be self-closing, self-latching, and locked when not in use. 4. If a fence or wall along a sidewalk includes a gate, the gate shall not open into the public sidewalk area except when a person is entering or exiting the gated area. T. Retaining Walls General Requirements Retaining walls shall be required whenever slopes exceed one foot of rise in three feet of run (3 to 1). Retaining wall heights for detention, retention, and water quality ponds shall not exceed 48 inches. 2. Requirements for Residential Development Retaining walls in residential development shall comply with the following height requirements: a. Maximum 48-inch height adjacent to rear lot lines; b. Maximum 30-inch height adjacent to side lot lines; c. Maximum 30-inch height in front yard and side yard for corner lots; d. Maximum 48-inch height in all common areas; and e. Terraced retaining walls are not permitted within the side yards of single-family detached homes. 3. In Non-residential Development Retaining wall heights shall not exceed eight feet. Walls shall be terraced until the required amount of slope has been taken up. Slopes between walls shall not exceed one foot of rise for each four feet of run (1 to 4). The area between each wall shall be landscaped with one or more of the following: shrubs, turf; or groundcover in accordance with subsection A.4 (Living Material Requirements). Each wall shall be separated by not less than 36 inches when the area between walls is landscaped with shrubs and groundcover. Turf shall not be planted in areas between walls that are separated by less than 48 inches. Retaining walls visible to the public view shall not be constructed from wood, plain concrete, or painted masonry units. The location and materials requirements set forth in this section shall also apply to the location and materials requirements for retaining walls. 4.8 BUILDING DESIGN STANDARDS INTENT The following standards for building design are intended to promote a pedestrian-friendly street edge and scale to buildings. New buildings shall implement building and roof articulation methods to avoid long, flat walls and provide visual interest in architecture. High quality materials are encouraged to enhance the architectural character and promote overall building longevity New standards From current Provisions restating nonconformity law were deleted as repetitive. Maintenance provisions deleted because addressed in general maintenance section Residential design standards carried forward from through 1303, with changes as noted. Many other new standards introduced in this section. Aurora, CO Page 280

111 4.8. Building Design Standards Applicability Buildings shall respond to context with a hierarchy of façade design. Residential design standards are intended to provide durable, energy efficient, and well-designed homes that can be easily maintained by the homeowner and add to the quality of the city as a whole APPLICABILITY 1174 The provisions of this Section 4.8 shall apply to: A. All new construction, and B. All expansions of the gross square footage of any primary building except a single-family detached or duplex dwelling by more than 25 percent, unless specifically exempted by the terms of this UDO. Specific provisions of this Section 4.8 apply to those types of buildings indicated in Table Table Building Design Standards Applicability by Building Type Single-family detached or two-family dwellings Multifamily buildings Single-story nonresidential buildings Multi-story mixed-use or nonresidential buildings Large-scale retail ( big box over 100,000 sq. ft. gfa.) [Image] [Image] [Image] [Image] [Image] Standard General building design standards Design variety Distribution of masonry and architectural features Windows Building orientation and spacing Indoor air quality features Massing and articulation Horizontal articulation [1] Vertical articulation [2] Maximum building length Building materials Primary building materials Masonry standards [1] Four-sided building design Façade character elements Entry design Roof design Roof materials Roof form Screening of mechanical equipment Rooftop equipment Ground-mounted equipment Garbage storage areas Notes: [1] Includes single-family attached buildings. [2] Only applies when more than two stories or over 30 feet tall Includes elements from (A) New section to clarify applicability. Aurora, CO Page 281

112 4.8. Building Design Standards Article : Development Standards Design Standards for Single-Family Detached and Two-Family Dwellings DESIGN STANDARDS FOR SINGLE-FAMILY DETACHED AND TWO-FAMILY DWELLINGS 1175 A. Applicability 1176 These standards shall be applied in addition to any other applicable standards in this Section 4.8 unless otherwise stated. When these standards conflict with any other standards in Section 4.8, the stricter shall apply. B. Design Variety In a subdivision plat of five to 10 lots, distinct elevations shall be provided by incorporating at least four of the following: 1178 a. Placement of windows and doors on the front façade of the elevation include at least a two-foot vertical or horizontal variation in size or location. b. The use of different materials on the front façade elevation. c. The width of the front façade elevation must differ by more than two feet. d. The locations and proportions of front porches must vary. e. Variations in the front wall plane. f. Use of roof dormers. g. A variation of the building types. h. Window shapes that are substantially different. 2. In a subdivision plat of 10 to 29 lots, at least two different home model varieties 1179 shall be constructed, each with a distinct floor plan and elevations. 3. In a subdivision plat of 30 to 49 lots, at least three different home model varieties shall be constructed, each with a distinct floor plan and elevations. 4. In a subdivision plat of 50 or more lots, at least four different home model varieties shall be constructed, each with a distinct floor plan and elevations. 5. No identical model home elevation shall be repeated directly across the street. 6. Approved paint schemes shall not be repeated more than once every four lots or directly across the street. 7. No model elevation shall be repeated more than once every four lots. 8. At least 30 percent of the model/elevation combinations must have variation in the roof line. Exceptions to accommodate rooftop solar applications will be permitted per Section C. Durability 1180 All of the net façade area shall have durable siding materials. Manufactured siding shall have at least a 25-year written manufacturer's limited warranty. Sheathing or bracing shall not be used as an exterior wall covering. Durable siding materials include cement fiber, engineered wood/composite, masonry, rust resistant architectural metals, stucco, any other material 1175 From current , with changes as noted. Purpose statement (A) and compliance required for building permit (B) not carried forward, since compliance with all development standards is required prior to a building permit. Subsection (C) was relocated to the parking design standards in Section 4.6. Subsection (D), adjacent setbacks, was relocated to Section A New From (E), revised as noted. Previously called repetitive design, renamed to focus on desired result Replaces (E)4 and In all instances, revised different homes to different home model varieties From current (F). Aurora, CO Page 282

113 4.8. Building Design Standards Article : Development Standards Design Standards for Single-Family Detached and Two-Family Dwellings approved by the City as being of similar quality, appearance, and durability, and combination of these listed materials. D. Distribution of Masonry and Architectural Features A minimum average of 15 percent of the net façade area of all residential design plans within a subdivision plat shall consist of masonry. The percentage of masonry coverage may vary among any residential design plans or the elevations of any residential design plans submitted, provided that the minimum average coverage is met with each separate submission. 2. All residential design plans with side or rear elevations adjacent to streets, parks, golf courses, or open space shall distribute architectural features and materials so as to achieve side-specific design for each side that faces such street, park, golf course or open space. In addition, except for any residential design plan with a side elevation adjacent to a street, there shall be a four-foot change in the depth of the front elevation, achieved through a recessed or alternately loaded garage, covered porch, or other architectural feature. E. Windows 1182 Each elevation shall contain windows. F. Architectural, Conservation, and Indoor Air Quality Features Weighted Point System This subsection is implemented through a weighted point system. Residential design plans subject to the requirements of this section shall be compared against the features listed in this subsection and shall be assigned points accordingly. All residential design plans shall meet a minimum score of: a. 8 points from 4.8-1, Conservation and Indoor Air Quality Features; and b. 17 points from 4-8.2, Architectural Features 2. Credits for Conservation and Indoor Air Quality Features Conservation and indoor air quality feature points may be credited to architectural feature points according to the following: Table Credits for Conservation and Indoor Air Quality Features Conservation and/or Indoor Air Quality Feature Points Earned 3. Architectural Features 1184 Maximum Transfer Value to Architectural Feature Points Fewer than or more +5 Points for architectural features shall be calculated according to Table From current (G), revised for clarity From current (H) From current (I) and (J), and Tables 13.1 and From current Table 13.1, reorganized to list higher point values first under each category. Aurora, CO Page 283

114 4.8. Building Design Standards Article : Development Standards Design Standards for Single-Family Detached and Two-Family Dwellings Table Scoring System for Architectural Features Feature Windows One full height, two-story bay window (for a one-story residential design plan, one full height bay window) One bay window One or more roof window dormers Two or more clerestory windows or windows with transoms above the main window Window mullion patterns on 75% of windows Front door with one or more sidelights, transom window or double door Ribbon windows with two or more horizontal rows of windows containing at least three windows each Decorative shutters on at least two street facing windows At least two special, decorative window heads or window sills on street facing elevations Four or more square feet of windows in the garage that are not on the door Garage door(s) with windows Roofs Clay, or concrete tile, cement, or standing seam metal roof 16-inch roof overhang on all sides Decorative roofing elements (e.g., copper above a bay window) Dimensional roof shingles with a 30-year warranty (previously no specified warranty length) Architectural Details and Styles Plan/elevation with 30% or greater masonry Porte-cochere over driveway Garage not visible on front elevation Plan/elevation with 20-29% masonry Functioning or simulated chimney Change in siding style between home and roof gable ends Ranch plan offered Decorative material on at least one gable end facing a street (e.g., decorative vents, lentils, etc.) Provide wide fascia at least four inches (nominal) - materials around doors, windows and porches Porches, Stoops, and Enhancements Covered porch of at least 50 square feet on the front elevation Wraparound porch, at least six feet deep Second story porch (at least 25 square feet) Public view - landscape enhancements in yards that face streets, parks, golf courses, or open space Porch of at least 50 square feet on the front elevation Walk out back covered patio of at least 50 square feet Porch or balcony railings Eight-inch wide columns, as measured at the base of the column, on front or side porch Points X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X TOTAL Total 4. Conservation and Indoor Air Quality Features 1185 Points for conservation and indoor air quality features shall be calculated according to Table From current Table Aurora, CO Page 284

115 4.8. Building Design Standards Building Orientation and Spacing Table Scoring System for Conservation and Indoor Air Quality Features Feature Energy Photovoltaic solar panel installed Solar thermal solar panel installed Home energy rating system (HERS) index greater than 90 and less than or equal to 95 HERS index greater than 85 and less than or equal to 90 HERS index greater than 75 and less than or equal to 85 HERS index less than or equal to 75 Energy star certified home National Green Building Standard/ANSI Standard ICC 700 or LEED for homes, bronze level or equivalent minimum Stated furnace efficiency greater than.78 TO.95 AFUE Stated furnace efficiency greater than.95 AFUE Stated water heater efficiency between.675 TO.82 Stated water heater efficiency of.82 or more Air conditioner with stated efficiency greater than or equal to 14 SEER is included as standard Air conditioner with stated efficiency greater than or equal to 16 SEER is included as standard Water Certified EPA water sense home All showerheads and hand held showers are 2.0 GPM or less All showerheads and hand held showers are water sense labeled All lavatory faucets flow rate is 1.5 GPM or less at 60 PSI All lavatory faucets are water sense labeled All toilets are 1.28 GPF or less All toilets are water sense labeled All toilets have dual actuated flushing All toilets have dual actuated flushing and are water sense labeled Dishwasher is Energy Star labeled Landscape weather-based irrigation controllers are water sense labeled. Audit required identifying appropriate efficiencies. Design of front landscaped area utilizes water sense budget tool On-demand hot water systems in accordance with water sense program, including, but not limited to: Tank-less water heater at water-use location Manifold system with less than ½-gallon bleed-off Circulating pump on occupant switch Use of pressure compensating sprinklers with check valves Irrigation system designed by certified irrigation contractor Air Quality Active radon control system Passive radon control system Heat recovery ventilation/energy recovery ventilation system Mutually exclusive 1186 Mutually exclusive Mutually exclusive Mutually exclusive Mutually exclusive Mutually exclusive Mutually exclusive Mutually exclusive Mutually exclusive Points X X X X X X X X X X X X X 5 points 5 points X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X TOTAL Total BUILDING ORIENTATION AND SPACING 1187 A. Intent Multiple buildings on a site shall be arranged to promote multi-modal connectivity, provide visual interest to pedestrians, activate public spaces, and facilitate social interaction. Buildings shall be arranged to provide ample light and air into interior and exterior spaces These items are mutually exclusive, meaning one of the merged items can be applied, but not more than one New standards. Aurora, CO Page 285

116 4.8. Building Design Standards Massing and Articulation B. Mixed Use and Multifamily Districts 1. Building Orientation - General Primary structures shall be arranged so that the primary façade, or each façade with a main pedestrian entry, orients onto one of the following. a. A public or private street; b. A public park, open space or common green; c. A plaza or courtyard; or d. A pedestrian passage. 2. Building Orientation - Single-Story Commercial Buildings a. A conventional suburban shopping center arrangement with a large commercial anchor tenant and other supporting commercial uses in line with each other and oriented to parking lots shall be avoided. b. Instead, commercial developments shall break up supporting commercial uses into a cluster of individual pad and liner buildings at corners and street edges. c. Pad and Liner buildings shall be designed to be "double-fronted", where one entrance faces the parking lot and another faces a street or other public space as defined in Section B.1 above. d. Larger single-story commercial buildings, such as a grocery store or "big box" commercial building, may be placed internal to a site, but should maintain a strong orientation with the other buildings on the site. However, large single-story commercial building may also be located at the street edge. e. A primary structure located on a corner lot where two streets intersect shall orient to each street by having strong ties to each street setback line. 3. Building Spacing a. Where multiple buildings are arranged on a site, there shall be a minimum of 15 feet between primary structures. b. When two buildings with primary residential or commercial entrances each face a common area other than a street (such as a plaza, green space, or pedestrian passage/mews), the space between the two structures shall be a minimum of 30 feet MASSING AND ARTICULATION A. Intent The intent of the following standards is to create a built environment in which the massing of buildings contributes to a sense of human scale, with horizontal and vertical articulation, manipulation of building forms, and use of various materials, fenestration and architectural details in order to avoid long, monolithic building shapes and surfaces. B. Horizontal Articulation Each primary structure shall use horizontal articulation elements to break up long, flat walls Every 50 linear feet (for Mixed Use, Multifamily, and Special Purpose Districts) or each individual unit (for single-family attached townhomes 1189 ) shall use at least one of the horizontal articulation methods shown in Table Article 9, Division 2, Section B Added to the original standard in order to provide additional guidance for how to achieve articulation between units. Aurora, CO Page 286

117 4.8. Building Design Standards Massing and Articulation Table Horizontal Articulation Methods Attached Single Family (Townhomes/Rowhomes) Mixed Use and Multifamily Single Story Commercial/Industrial a. Change in material texture, patterning or color - A change in material texture, patterning or color that extends the full height of the primary façade, excluding the ground level b. Horizontal offset or projection - A horizontal wall plane offset of at least 3 ft. extending for at least 50% of the average height of the primary façade c. Change in fenestration pattern - A change in window size, style, or placement d. Change in roof height or form - A variation in parapet height of at least 3 ft. or a change in roof form e. Wall notch combination - A combination using at least one option from above, plus a wall notch. Wall notches shall be a minimum of 3 ft. deep and 8 ft. wide. C. Vertical Articulation Aurora, CO Page 287

118 4.8. Building Design Standards Massing and Articulation 1. Each primary structure (or portion of primary structure) with a height of 30 feet or more and more than two stories shall use vertical articulation to present a clear base, middle and cap to the building on each façade facing a street or a residential district. 2. The base is generally the portion of the building that meets the ground. It is at least 24 tall, but for taller buildings could be as tall as the first two stories. It shall include pedestrian oriented elements, high transparency, and be made of high-quality and durable materials. The middle is the least dominant façade element. It is generally located between the base (anywhere above 24 off the ground) and the cap, or roofline. The cap is where the building meets the sky. This is generally a predominant roofline or architectural element indicating the end of a building Cap Middle Base Figure 4.8-1: Base, Middle, and Cap of Building 3. At least one of the following vertical articulation options shall be used for each of the three vertical element categories. Table Vertical Articulation Methods for Base, Middle, and Cap of Buildings Vertical Articulation Methods for Base a. Use of heavy material on ground floor Use masonry such as brick or stone, or other durable material to delineate the ground floor Article 9, Division 2, Section B.2.a Combined two Aurora, CO Page 288

119 4.8. Building Design Standards Massing and Articulation Table Vertical Articulation Methods for Base, Middle, and Cap of Buildings Vertical Articulation Methods for Base b. Horizontal reveal line at base A horizontal reveal line a minimum of 24 in. from the ground. c. Arcade, gallery, or colonnade Use an arcade, gallery or colonnade to accentuate the ground floor. d. Architectural detailing Use enhanced architectural detailing or fenestration on the ground floor. e. Stepback in massing Vertical Articulation Methods for Middle A stepback in massing a minimum of 5 ft. from the ground floor façade. f. Change in material A change in material occurring between the first and second floors Stucco Brick Aurora, CO Page 289

120 4.8. Building Design Standards Massing and Articulation g. Variation in window size Visible variation in window size from ground floor to upper floor(s) (typically smaller) h. Cornice Vertical Articulation Methods for Cap Use of cornice (on flat-roof buildings) or projecting roof line (for sloping roofs) i. Reveal line at top of building A reveal line or change in material, texture, patterning or color (min. 24 in. from top) D. Maximum Building Length 1. The maximum building length of any multifamily or mixed-use building shall be: a. 150 feet in Subarea A b. 200 feet in Subareas B and C 2. The maximum building length of any commercial or industrial building shall be: 1191 a. 200 feet in Subarea A b. 400 feet in Subarea B c. 600 feet in Subarea C 3. The maximum building length of townhouse buildings shall be 8 attached units in one single building cluster These are new standards. Staff is still considering the appropriate dimensions for industrial buildings (such as distribution warehouses and covered parking lots) to be integrated into this section. Aurora, CO Page 290

121 4.8. Building Design Standards Building Materials BUILDING MATERIALS A. Intent High quality building materials are promoted to ensure building longevity and architectural interest. Building materials shall provide a sense of human scale and interest, especially on ground floors. Colors should be carefully chosen with respect to surrounding context. B. Applicability to Single-family Detached and Duplex Development 1192 Each residential design plan submitted for approval after [insert effective date of this UDO], shall meet the requirements of this section as follows: 1. For any subdivision approved prior to [insert effective date of this UDO], where: a. The average percentage of masonry on the net façade area of all residential dwelling units permitted by the subdivision plat is not less than 30 percent; and b. At least 50 percent of the total residential dwelling units permitted by the subdivision plat have been built as of [insert effective date of this UDO], Each new residential design plan shall provide that the net façade area of the residential dwelling unit shall be no less than 30 percent masonry. Upon application, the Director may allow, on a case-by-case basis, the percentage of masonry coverage to vary among any residential design plans or the elevations of any residential design plans submitted to the Director for approval, provided that the minimum average coverage is met in each such submission for the remaining dwelling units within the subdivision. 2. For any subdivision approved prior to [insert effective date of this UDO], where: a. No masonry is included on the net façade area of any residential dwelling unit permitted by the subdivision plat and/or built within the subdivision; and b. At least 50 percent of the total residential dwelling units permitted by the subdivision plat have been built as of [insert effective date of this UDO], No masonry shall be required in any new residential design plan. 3. The building material requirements for the facades of single-family detached and duplex structures shall not apply to: a. Any alterations, additions, or repairs to an existing single-family detached or duplex structure; or b. The rebuilding of any single-family detached or duplex structure not built in conformance with this division that has been damaged or destroyed by fire or natural disaster, provided that the rebuilt structure contains at least the same amount of masonry as the original. C. Primary Building Materials 1. Intense, bright, or fluorescent colors shall not be used as the predominant color on any wall or roof of any primary or accessory structure. These colors may be used as building accent colors, but shall not constitute more than 10 percent of the area of each elevation of a building Highly reflective or glare producing glass with a reflectance factor of.25 or higher is prohibited on all façades. Such prohibition shall apply regardless of whether the glass is used in window or spandrels areas From current (B). Did not carry forward waiver standards for residential design standards from (D) Article 9, Division 2, Section B.3.a 1194 Article 9, Division 2, Section B.3.b Aurora, CO Page 291

122 4.8. Building Design Standards Building Materials 3. Table indicates permitted primary exterior building materials for each general building type/zone district. Table Permitted Primary Exterior Building Materials Blank cell A/B/C Architectural Glass Corrugated Metal = Permitted = Not Permitted = Conditional Residential Districts Single-Family Detached and Two-Family Townhomes and Multi-Family Mixed-Use Districts Special Purpose Districts Detailed Cast Concrete Engineered Wood/Composite Masonry - Brick Masonry - CMU Block Masonry - Decorative Tile See. Secs C and D. Masonry - Natural Stone Metal Panel Prefabricated Concrete Panels B B Three Coat Stucco Synthetic Stucco Vinyl A. Buildings with corrugated metal as the primary exterior building material shall include wainscoting at least 42 in. high, surfaced in stone, decorative concrete, or brick masonry when facing a view corridor, drainage, public or private space, or right of way B. Buildings with prefabricated concrete tilt-up panels shall be embossed with reveals that repeat a common pattern that is human scaled The following charts illustrate successful applications of the various permitted primary exterior building materials on a variety of building types. A 1195 Article 10, Division 3, Section K Article 9, Division 2, Section C.1.-C.5 Aurora, CO Page 292

123 Engineered Wood/Composite Detailed Cast Concrete Corrugated Metal Architectural Glass Article : Development Standards 4.8. Building Design Standards Building Materials Aurora, CO Page 293

124 Masonry - Stone Masonry - Decorative Tile Masonry - CMU Block Masonry - Brick Article : Development Standards 4.8. Building Design Standards Building Materials Aurora, CO Page 294

125 Vinyl Three Coat Stucco Prefabricated Concrete Panels Metal Panel Article : Development Standards 4.8. Building Design Standards Building Materials Aurora, CO Page 295

126 4.8. Building Design Standards Four-Sided Building Design D. Masonry Standards for Single-Family Attached and Multifamily Residential Dwellings 1197 Masonry standards for single-family attached and multifamily dwellings (other than two-family dwellings), are as indicated in Table below. Table Masonry Standards for Single-Family Attached and Multifamily Type of Structure Single-family attached Multifamily (excluding two-family) Minimum Percentage of Masonry on Net Façade Area (not each elevation) Either: 50 percent shall be clad in brick or stone; or 75 percent shall be clad in stucco; or 75 percent shall be clad in a combination of stucco and brick, or stucco and stone. Either: 60 percent shall be clad in brick or stone; or 80 percent shall be clad in stucco; or 80 percent shall be clad in a combination of stucco and brick, or stucco and stone FOUR-SIDED BUILDING DESIGN A. Intent Four-sided building standards are provided to eliminate the common treatment of backs of buildings. There shall be a hierarchy to building facades, but depending on what each façade orients to there may or may not be a back side. For example, when a façade of a building orients to open space or a protected residential district, that façade shall employ architectural interest due to its high visibility, even if the façade does not include a main entry. B. Applicability The following standards apply to construction of all new primary buildings, and to all additions to and renovations of existing primary buildings that increase the gross floor area by 25 percent or more. C. Building Face Hierarchy A building's special architectural features and treatments shall not be restricted to a single facade. Each building face shall require a different degree of architectural treatment, commensurate with its degree of visibility from a public or private open space, or public or private street right-of-way Building faces shall be classified according to the hierarchy shown in table Table Building Face Naming and Descriptions A B C Primary Building Face Secondary Building Face Minor Building Face This facade directly fronts a public or private street. It is typically the building face on which the primary entrance is located, and the face that will be viewed most frequently by pedestrian as well as automotive traffic. This facade is typically perpendicular to the primary building face and located on the side of a building, where it is viewed by pedestrian and automotive traffic, but less directly. This facade is typically found at the rear of a building, and is viewed only from alleys, or indirectly from greater distances From current Replaces current Table Article 10, Division 3, Section C Aurora, CO Page 296

127 4.8. Building Design Standards Four-Sided Building Design D. Façade Character Elements In addition to any applicable standards set forth in the Massing and Articulation Section, new buildings are subject to the following façade character requirements for four-sided design. 2. Table includes three categories for façade character elements. Each category includes a minimum number of required elements for each building face. This table may be used as a checklist for the Zoning Administrator. Table Façade Character Elements for Four-Sided Building Design Mixed Use and Multifamily Residential Districts Special Purpose Districts Building Face Primary Secondary Minor Primary Secondary Minor Façade Facade Facade Facade Facade Facade Category 1: Massing Wall off-set (min. 3 ft.) Wall/parapet height change (min. 3 ft.) Roof form change Upper floor stepback Wall notch (min. 12 in.) Category 2: Materials Change in material Change in color Change in texture Use of masonry (min. 40% of façade) Use of panelized materials (min. 40% of façade) Variety of window sizes Transparency and glazing (min 70% transparent glass) Category 3: Human Scale Architectural detailing Display cases on ground floor (for mixed use) Building-mounted lighting fixtures Awnings or shutters Entry definition (pronounced massing/roof form, stoop, porch, etc.) Building corner enhancements Wall art Balconies Landscape wall/decorative screen for vines E. Entry Design Each building type shall incorporate primary entries to either primary or secondary building faces. Each entry shall be accentuated by using one of the methods shown in Table Staff reviewing this menu of character elements to consider whether some of the elements should be mandatory outside of this menu. Aurora, CO Page 297

128 4.8. Building Design Standards Four-Sided Building Design Table Entry Options Entry Options for Residential Buildings with Individual Unit Access from Ground Floor a. Front Porch Front porches are common on single family attached (townhome/rowhome) and other residential building types where individual units may be accessed from the ground floor. A front porch shall be raised a minimum of 24 in. off the ground and be at least partially open on three sides and include a roof overhead. It shall be large enough to accommodate seating for two people. b. Patio Patios are common on single family attached (townhome/rowhome) and other residential building types where individual units may be accessed from the ground floor. They are also common for units that have to be accessible from the ground floor. A patio is less than 24 in. off the ground and shall be at least partially covered. A patio shall be large enough to accommodate seating for two people. c. Stoop Stoops are most common on single family attached (townhome/rowhome) or stacked apartment building types. A stoop shall be raised a minimum of 36 in. off the ground. The landing of the stoop shall be a minimum of 30 square feet and be covered. Entry Options for Mixed Use, Commercial and Industrial Buildings d. Projected Mass A projected mass entry includes a featured building form element where the main entry to a building is located. This is most common for building types that share a common entry, especially to service upper floors. The projected mass shall be a minimum of 2 ft. deep. The entrance shall be covered, either by an attached element or by recessing the doors into the building mass. e. Recessed Mass A recessed mass entry includes a featured building form element where the main entry to a building is located. This is most common for building types that share a common entry, especially to service upper floors. The recessed mass shall be inset a minimum of 2 ft. and shall be covered. Aurora, CO Page 298

129 4.8. Building Design Standards Roof Design Table Entry Options f. Corner Entry A corner entry is naturally featured by being located in the most visible portion of a building. A corner entry could serve the ground floor and/or act as a common entry for an entire building. The building is usually chamfered or rounded (at least on the ground floor) to accommodate doors and/or storefront windows. g. Roof Form Variation Varying the roof form above the mass on which the entry is located enhances visibility to the main entrance. Roof form variation as a way to enhance an entry is most appropriate for lower-scaled buildings where the roof form is seen from the ground. A roof form variation shall be visibly different from adjacent building mass and form by varying overall roof form and/or height. h. Awning or Sun Shade Device Incorporate an awning or sun shade device to enhance and highlight a main entrance and to cover an entrance from rain and snow. Sun shade devices shall be used appropriately for solar control, i.e. they are not appropriate on north facades ROOF DESIGN A. Mixed Use and Multifamily Districts 1. Roof Materials a. Acceptable materials for all sloping roof areas with a pitch of 3 in 12 or greater, and visible from any public or private right-of-way, are listed in Table b. Intense, bright, or fluorescent colors shall not be used on any roof areas visible from a public or private right-of-way or public open space c. All roof materials on all development shall have a minimum 25-year warranty Article 9, Division 2, Section B Article 9, Division 2, Section B.5.a 1203 Article 9, Division 2, Section D.4 Aurora, CO Page 299

130 4.8. Building Design Standards Screening of Mechanical Equipment Table Permitted Materials for Visible Sloping Roofs = Permitted Blank cell = Not permitted Residential Districts Single-Family Detached and Duplexes Townhomes and Multifamily Mixed-Use Districts Special Purpose Districts Asphalt Shingles Composition (Architectural) Shingles Concrete, Clay or Slate Tiles Membrane System Roofs Seamed Architectural Metals (e.g. Tin, Copper) 2. Roof Form a. Where sloped roofs are used, at least one of the following elements shall be incorporated into the design for each 60 lineal feet of roof to avoid long, flat roof surfaces: 1204 i. Projecting gables, ii. Hips, iii. Horizontal/vertical breaks, or iv. Other similar techniques. b. Where flat roofs are used, the design or height of the parapet shall include at least one change in setback or height of at least three feet along each 60 lineal feet of façade c. On all structures exceeding 3 stories in height, roofs shall be internally drained, and external scuppers and wall drains shall be prohibited B. Special Purpose Districts Industrial buildings with metal as the primary exterior surface material shall have roofs enhanced with a decorative fascia, a roof pitch of 4 in 12 or greater, projecting gables, or other similar techniques SCREENING OF MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT A. Rooftop Equipment 1. All rooftop mechanical equipment shall be screened from view from adjacent properties and any adjacent street or public space, as measured at a height of four feet above the ground. Appropriate methods for rooftop screening include: a. Free-standing screen wall b. Extended parapet wall c. Other similar technique B. Ground Mounted Equipment 1. Ground or wall-mounted utility equipment such as HVAC units, electric and gas meters, panels, junction boxes and similar equipment shall be screened from view of public 1204 Article 9, Division 2, Section B.5.b 1205 Article 9, Division 2, Section B.5.c 1206 Article 9, Division 2, Section B.5.d Aurora, CO Page 300

131 4.9. Exterior Lighting Purpose streets, parks, plazas, and other public space by using architecturally compatible walls and/or landscaping. 2. Ideally, ground and wall-mounted equipment will be located along or on C building faces. In some cases, B building faces may be necessary. No equipment shall be located on A building faces. 3. When walls are used to screen mechanical equipment, the walls shall utilize similar building materials and detail as the primary structure. C. Garbage Storage Areas 1207 Garbage storage for multifamily dwellings, commercial, and industrial buildings shall be accommodated within the structure where possible. If located outside the structure, garbage storage shall be screened from public view from any adjacent public street or residential use or district within 100 feet of the trash storage area. 4.9 EXTERIOR LIGHTING PURPOSE 1209 The purpose of this Section 4.9 is to ensure that vehicle circulation areas, pedestrian circulation areas, parking areas, public gathering spaces, approaches to buildings, and other areas have adequate outdoor illumination to promote safety and walkability at night; to control the negative impacts associated with nuisance outdoor lighting, excessive lighting, dramatic contrasts between lit and unlit areas; and to minimize light spillover onto adjacent properties STANDARDS APPLICABLE TO ALL DEVELOPMENT 1211 A. Except in the R-R and R-1 districts, sidewalks, internal pedestrian paths, and bicycle paths shall be lit with full cutoff shielded lighting fixtures no more than 16 feet tall and providing consistent illumination of at least one footcandle on the walking surface B. In all zone districts except Industrial zones, on-site streets and parking areas shall be lit with full cutoff shielded luminaire type lighting fixtures no more than 25 feet tall. Fixtures shall be downcast type. In industrial districts the maximum height of lighting fixtures located at least 750 feet from Residential districts and residential uses shall be 40 feet C. Incandescent light sources of 100 watts or less or other light sources of 60 watts or less (gaseous discharge) that are located at least 150 feet from the property line of a residential district, are exempt from the full cutoff shielding requirement D. Lighting along public street and landscaped areas of a specific development or activity center shall be of a recognizably unified design. E. Lighting sources shall be color-correct types such as Halogen or metal halide. Light types of limited spectral emission, such as low pressure sodium or mercury vapor lights, are prohibited New provision Most of these standards were carried forward from the E-470 and NE Plains districts, and are proposed to be applied broadly throughout the city New text. Current code does not include a purpose statement for lighting From current (A) and (A), intent statements from E-470 and NE Plains district lighting standards From current , revised as noted. Vague standards from current were not carried over Revised from low-density residential subarea to apply to low-density residential districts (R-R and R-1) Extended from current application to parking lots and areas Relocated from parking lighting to be generally applicable. Aurora, CO Page 301

132 4.9. Exterior Lighting Parking Area Lighting F. Lighting fixtures shall have a minimum light intensity of one lumen per square foot and a maximum intensity of two lumens per square foot unless otherwise provided by this Section G. Light spillover onto adjacent properties shall not exceed 0.1 footcandles 10 feet the property line, except where adjacent to walkways, driveways, public and private streets H. All exterior light fixtures shall generate at least 80 lumens per watt of energy consumed, as shown on the manufacturers specifications for the fixture PARKING AREA LIGHTING 1218 A. Shielding of Lights in Commercial Parking Areas 1. Lighting fixtures for canopies or similar structures shall be flush-mounted or recessed above the lower edge of the canopy, and shall be equipped with flat lenses. 2. For any fixtures on a lot adjacent to a Residential districts or residential use the source of light shall be shielded from sight from all residential uses. B. Illuminance 1. Maintained average illuminance values in paved, commercial parking areas and multifamily developments shall be no less than two foot-candles. Illuminance shall be measured using only the light produced on-site. 2. The acceptable uniformity ratio for lighted areas shall comply with recommended ranges adopted by the Illumination Engineering Society of North America (IESNA) for low, medium, and high activity areas. C. Hours of Lighting 1. All luminaires, except those required for security, shall be extinguished within one hour after the end of business closing and remain extinguished until one hour before business opening. A maximum of 25 percent of the total luminaires used for parking lot illumination may remain in operation during such this period to provide security. 2. Parking area lighting during off-business hours need not conform to the otherwise applicable average-to-minimum uniformity ratio in Section B BUILDING LIGHTING 1219 A. Location and Direction Building mounted lights shall be installed so that all light is directed downward except for decorative lighting less than 100 watts fluorescent or the equivalent. 2. No wall packs or similar lights shall be permitted unless the cutoff angle effectively eliminates glare from beyond the property lines. 3. Lights shall not be mounted above the parapet or above the eave on a pitched roof except for motion-activated security lighting, decorative lighting Lights shall not exceed 400 watts of incandescent illuminance or the equivalent Previously (N)2, the E-470 Main Street Sites lighting regulations Replaces.5 footcandle 10 feet beyond property line standard currently applicable to parking lot lighting New provision; inefficient outdoor lighting consumes significant amounts of energy From current Color and height standards deleted because addressed in general section; location standards deleted as unnecessary New provisions Light spillover standard deleted because addressed in general section Exception for accent lighting deleted. Aurora, CO Page 302

133 4.10. Signs Purpose and Intent B. Decorative Lighting 4.10 SIGNS Decorative lighting is permitted to enhance the appearance of a building and/or landscaping provided that all light is cast against the building surface or downward onto a tree or other landscape feature. 2. Decorative lighting shall not exceed 100 watts of incandescent illuminance or the equivalent. 3. All decorative lighting shall be directed away from residential uses and shall be shielded at all times to reduce light being shown upon adjacent residential uses. 4. Lighting for special events, emergencies, construction, or holidays shall be exempt from these decorative lighting standards provided that the lighting is temporary and is discontinued within seven days upon completion of the project or the holiday for which the lighting was provided PURPOSE AND INTENT 1224 A. To protect the right to free speech by the display of protected message(s) on a sign, while balancing this right against public interests of preserving and protecting the public, health, safety and welfare within the City of Aurora; B. To reduce hazards that may be caused or worsened by driver and pedestrian distraction caused by signs, especially those projecting along public rights-of-way or near roadway intersections; C. To promote the effectiveness of signs by preventing their over concentration, visual clutter, improper placement, deterioration, excessive size and number; D. To preserve and enhance the aesthetic and environmental values of the community, while at the same time providing adequate channels of communication to the public; E. To increase the economic value of commercial areas through use of quality design; and F. To regulate signs in accordance with the city's policy and intent in a manner consistent with the U.S. and Colorado Constitutions, and that is content-neutral PROHIBITED SIGNS 1225 A. Vehicle mounted signs that are not integrated into body of the vehicle, including mobile billboards; B. Signs advertising a home occupation; C. Signs extending over or within the right-of-way, unless otherwise authorized through a revocable right-of-way permit from the city; D. Signs on utility poles, other than city-owned signs; New Per the Annotated Outline, the sign regulations were not substantially amended. This section was largely carried forward from the current Article 16, with the exception of changes as noted. In particular, these regulations have not been reviewed for compliance with the 2015 U.S. Supreme Court decision in Reed v. Gilbert. Nonconforming signs (currently ) will be included with Module 3 with other nonconformities provisions From current From current Table 16.1 replaced with this list. Aurora, CO Page 303

134 4.10. Signs Existing Signs E. Roof signs or any signs placed on or above the roof line or parapet of a building; F. Temporary signs displaying off-premises commercial message; G. Internally illuminated awnings; and H. Strobe or flashing lights EXISTING SIGNS 1227 A. Generally Existing signs that do not conform to the provisions of this Section 4.10 shall not be reerected when removed from their supporting structure. They may be re-erected if the location and the sign are made to conform to the provisions of this Section 4.10 or any other ordinance or regulation. B. Discontinued Business Any existing sign that advertises a defunct business or an unavailable product or service shall be removed by the owner, agent or person having the control of the premises upon which such sign may be found. Such removal shall be pursuant to written notice from the Director. Upon failure to comply with such notice within the time specified in such order, the Director is authorized to cause removal of such sign. Any incidental expense shall be paid by the owner of the premises upon which such sign is located PERMITTED RESIDENTIAL SIGNS 1228 Residential sign shall comply with the standards in Table Table Permitted Signs Sign Category Sign Type Maximum Number Maximum Area Small Multifamily Dwellings (24 units or fewer) Large Multifamily Dwellings (more than 24 units) Wall or monument sign Wall or monument sign One wall sign or monument sign per street frontage One wall sign or monument sign per street frontage 36 square feet 96 square feet PERMITTED COMMERCIAL, INSTITUTIONAL, MIXED-USE, AND INDUSTRIAL SIGNS 1229 A. Applicability These standards shall be used unless otherwise specified in this UDO, Site Plan, Master Plan, Adjustment, or Variance B. Wall, Projecting, Blade, and Monument Signs 1. Number of Permitted Signs 1231 A total of five development signs are permitted per use, with a total of 80 square feet minimum. 2. Total Sign Area Allowed Added other than city-owned signs to allow for traffic and other public works related signage From current From current , Signs for Residential Uses (Table 16.2) This subsection replaces Table These will be reviewed in Module 3 to assign appropriate development review procedures Replaces current heading in Table 16.3 Total square footage calculation for all permitted signs New heading. Aurora, CO Page 304

135 4.10. Signs Permitted Commercial, Institutional, Mixed-use, and Industrial Signs a. Arterial Streets: Two square feet of sign area for each linear foot of building frontage for the first 100 feet. Then one-half square feet of sign area for each linear foot of building frontage thereafter as measured along the building frontage (the longest building frontage with a public entrance). b. All other streets: One square feet of sign area for each linear foot of building frontage for the first 200 feet of building frontage; then one-half square feet of sign area for each linear foot of building frontage thereafter as measured along the building frontage (the longest building frontage with a public entrance). c. Maximum total sign area shall not exceed 600 square feet d. Individual signs shall not exceed 200 square feet e. Each tenant is permitted one blade sign up to a maximum of six square feet C. Monument Sign Standards Monument signage is considered as one of the five development signs allowed and is included in the total allowable square footage as calculated above. 1. Location of Monument Signs a. Monument signs shall be located on the site plan showing size of sign face, setback, and site triangle. b. If any monument sign is located in an easement, a revocable license must be obtained prior to permit issuance. 2. Maximum Height The maximum height of monument signs shall be determined by the location as follows: a. Along arterial streets: 12 feet b. Along all other streets: 8 feet 3. Total Sign Area Allowed The maximum size of a monument sign face is 100 square feet, unless otherwise noted in this article. D. Large Scale Retail Single-Tenant Use (over 50,000 sq. ft.) 1. Number of Permitted Signs a. May be extended to a total of eight signs with Administrative waiver b. One monument sign per street frontage for those single retail uses that have more than150 feet of street frontage, plus one additional monument sign is permitted provided that a separation of 150 feet is maintained between monument signs Total Sign Area Allowed Two square feet per lineal feet of building frontage to maximum total sign area of 800 square feet. 3. Location of Monument Signs a. Minimum of four feet from back of sidewalk or 21 feet from flow line; and 1233 Revised for clarity Revised for clarity Revised for clarity The term waiver will be revised in the consolidated draft to reference the new adjustment procedures proposed in Module Revised for clarity. Aurora, CO Page 305

136 4.10. Signs Other Types of Signs b. Shall not be placed within the 30-foot site triangle. 4. Motor Vehicle Dispensing Uses a. Choose either the primary linear frontage of the canopy or store for calculating the sign area, but not both. b. Accessory car wash buildings may not be used to calculate sign area. 5. Collection Kiosks Two kiosk mounted signs are permitted, limited to a maximum of six square feet each. 6. Small Recycling Centers One sign permitted, limited to a maximum of 20 square feet. E. Joint Tenant and Project Identification for Wall and Monument Signs 1. In addition to the calculations above for multi-tenant developments, one Joint Tenant or Project Identification wall or monument sign for each public street or highway abutting the project is permitted. 2. The maximum size shall not exceed 100 square feet per sign face, with a maximum height of 14 feet OTHER TYPES OF SIGNS 1238 Table Standards for Other Types of Signs Sign Type Description and Standard(s) Size and Quantity Neighborhood District Identification Business District Identification Business District Markers Bus Benches and Bus Shelter Advertising Collection Kiosks Flags on flag poles with or without advertising Public Service/ Governmental At entrances only on an arterial or collector street Only on an arterial or collector streets Only on arterial or collector streets/ pillar or column design Permitted on the city right-ofway pursuant to a bus bench or advertising bus shelter franchise agreement with city See standards in Section JJ, Recycling Collection facilities. The number of poles per property applies to all flags with or without advertising. Flags with advertising count against the total allocated square footage of sign area. In no instance shall any part of a flag extend beyond the property line Governmental, legal notices, traffic, danger, emergency, 96 sf max.; 6 feet max. height; Maximum 2 per entrance 96 sf total; 8 feet max. height 20 sf max; 6 feet max height Permit Required? Yes Zoning Districts Permitted All residential and mixed-use districts Yes Commercial and mixeduse districts No Commercial and mixeduse districts As per agreement Yes All districts Two kiosk mounted signs ; Maximum six sf each 3 poles max; Maximum 240 sf total area; 35 feet max height No Required for any flag pole over 25 feet in height Commercial and mixeduse districts Commercial and multifamily residential districts 1240 n/a No All districts 1238 Replaces Miscellaneous Signs and Table 16.4 from current Revised for clarity and other changes as noted below Revised to include any part of a flag. Also excludes permit requirement for 25 feet, since that information is included in the fourth column Previously commercial and large-scale multifamily districts. Aurora, CO Page 306

137 4.10. Signs Electronic Message Boards Table Standards for Other Types of Signs Sign Type Description and Standard(s) Size and Quantity Menu/ Order Boards, Gas Station Pump Island Window Directional (Commercial) Pennants, streamers, or similar decorative devices aids to public service or safety. Not calculated in business sign area No flashing or blinking permitted. Calculated with all window signs (temporary and permanent) and includes "open" signs ELECTRONIC MESSAGE BOARDS 1242 Permit Required? Zoning Districts Permitted n/a No All districts where drivethrough and gas station is a permitted or conditional use 1241 Shall not exceed 50% of window pane; Max. total of 200 sf; Shall not exceed 25% of the window pane within the Pedestrian Sub-District of the MU- OA District No Commercial and mixeduse districts Refer to Colfax sign standards Table No business identification 3 sf max.; Yes Commercial and mixeduse permitted. 6 feet max. height districts 30 consecutive days per year n/a Yes All districts A. An electronic message board is limited to use on monument signs only and shall be integrated into the overall sign face. B. The area of the electronic message board shall not exceed 50 percent of the total area of the sign face. C. The electronic message display must be programmed so it does not change more frequently than once every eight seconds, and the message change occurs instantaneously, without use of scrolling, flashing, fading, blinking, or other similar transitions. The board shall contain static messages only, changed only through dissolve or fade transitions, but that may otherwise not have movement, or the appearance or optical illusion of movement varying light intensity, of any part of the board, design or pictorial segment of the board. The change of message using dissolve or fade transition shall not exceed one second of time between each message displayed on the board. D. The message display must be provided with automatic dimming software or solar sensors to control brightness for nighttime viewing and varying daytime lighting conditions. E. The message displayed on the sign shall only direct attention to a business, product, service or entertainment conducted, sold or offered on the premises on which the sign is located. Community emergency alerts such as inclement weather, or amber alerts, are exempt. F. All existing electronic signs that contain an electronic changeable copy that does not comply with the provisions of the section shall conform to the brightness of copy provisions and animation restrictions within 180 days of the adoption of this article. G. Within the areas designated as the Special Commercial Sign Overlay Districts (Havana Street, Parker Road, and in the roadside subdistrict along Colfax Avenue, per Section ), electronic message boards may be integrated into either a wall or monument sign, but is limited to 50 percent of the overall sign square footage Previously commercial and mixed-use. Revised since these types of signs would be included for any such use, regardless of the zoning district From current Aurora, CO Page 307

138 4.10. Signs Signs in Special Commercial Sign Overlay District SIGNS IN SPECIAL COMMERCIAL SIGN OVERLAY DISTRICT 1243 A. Purpose The City Council determines that there are certain commercial areas in the city that warrant the designation as special commercial sign overlay districts to permit a taller or larger ground sign because: 1. Such areas are characterized by intense commercial activity along major streets; 2. The uses to which such signs pertain have long street frontages; 3. Sign locations are buffered from residential areas; and 4. Areas may be coterminous with other governmental jurisdictions that have less restrictive sign regulations. B. Designation and Applicability 1. The City Council hereby designates special commercial sign overlay districts along the frontage of the following streets for qualifying businesses having the requisite minimum frontage on such named streets: a. Havana Street (South of Sixth Avenue); b. Colfax Avenue (Outside of Pedestrian Overlay District); and c. Parker Road. 2. The special commercial sign overlay district shall not apply to the MU-FB district C. Approval Criteria 1245 The Director shall approve the proposed sign, deny the sign, or approve the sign with conditions. The Director shall consider the following in making its determination: 1. Whether any negative offsite effects of the proposed sign are mitigated. 2. The extent to which the sign conforms to the associated design character of the development. D. Appeal; Call-up to City Council An applicant may appeal the decision. City council shall hold a hearing on the application in within 45 days and shall approve the proposed sign, deny the sign, or approve the sign with conditions. The City Council shall consider the following in making its determination: a. Whether any negative offsite effects of the proposed sign are mitigated; and b. The extent to which the sign conforms to the associated design character of the development. 2. In the event of a denial of the application, the applicant may seek prompt judicial review of the denial pursuant to Rule 106 of the Colorado Rules of Civil Procedure. E. Large, Integrated Development The City Council may approve a sign that exceeds the height, area, or location limitations in this section if it finds such increase is appropriate because the sign relates to a large integrated development or regional activity center From current Application submittal requirements deleted these should appear outside the UDO From current Table 16.7, moved here for clarity This section may be moved to the administration chapter. Previously required approval by the planning and zoning commission. Because the city council designates these districts, the signs could be approved administratively This section may be moved to the administration chapter. Aurora, CO Page 308

139 4.10. Signs Creative Signs F. Signs Permitted 1247 The following sign standards apply to any property in a special commercial sign overlay district: 1. The maximum height of all monument signs in a special commercial sign overall district shall not exceed 20 feet above grade. 2. If the proposed use has a minimum single street frontage of 300 feet, then one ground sign shall be permitted in addition to the maximum number permitted elsewhere in this Section The maximum total sign area including the additional ground sign shall not exceed 800 square feet. G. Installation and Design The supports for such sign shall appear as an architectural and/or integral part of the sign. 2. The Director is authorized to adopt design guidelines to be applied in the evaluation of the proposed sign. Prior to their application, the design guidelines shall be reviewed and approved by the City Council CREATIVE SIGNS 1249 A. Purpose 1. The creative sign program provides for property owners and businesses within the city to propose creatively designed signs. The intent of this process is: a. To encourage signs of high quality materials and workmanship; b. To encourage signs of unique design that exhibit a high degree of imagination, inventiveness; and c. To provide a process for the application of creatively designed signs that make a positive visual contribution to the overall image of the city, while mitigating the impacts of large or unusually designed signs. 2. Additionally, the creative sign program may provide for increased allowance to the maximum sign area permitted and to allow changeable copy in association with marquee signs B. Procedures A creative sign program may be approved pursuant to Section B.2 (Creative Sign Program) Previously Table 16.6, revised for clarity Installation and design combined into one heading From current Procedures moved to Administration and Procedures chapter since Module Reference to content of signs deleted. Aurora, CO Page 309

140 4.10. Signs District Specific Sign Regulations DISTRICT SPECIFIC SIGN REGULATIONS 1251 A. Signs in the MU-FB, UC-TOD, and UC-R Districts Permitted Sign Types and Standards Table Sign Regulations in the MU-FB, UC-TOD, and UC-R Districts Permitted Sign Types Individual Tenants/ Business Signs Wall sign High wall sign (five stories or greater) Grand projecting sign Canopy sign Awning sign Pedestrian blade sign Monument Signs Individual tenant monument sign Joint identification wall and ground sign Sidewalk sign Standard Each tenant is allowed one wall sign for each street and parking lot frontage. Wall signs shall be allowed up to one square foot per linear foot of building frontage with a maximum of 70 square feet of sign area. Individual tenants are allowed a minimum of 25 square feet. One high wall sign is permitted on individual building(s) of five stories or greater in height. High wall signs shall be allowed up to two square feet per linear foot of building frontage with a maximum of 200 square feet in area. The sign must be located in the area between the bottom of the top floor and the top of the parapet wall. Signs above the parapet wall will be considered roof signs. One permitted per development on a building located on a corner lot with a street-facing open plaza. Grand projecting signs shall not be a joint identification or multi-tenant sign. Sign shall have a minimum clearance of ten feet above grade, and shall not project more than five feet beyond the face of the building. Sign shall be permitted upon an approved site plan review. Grand projecting signs shall meet the standards in Figure Each tenant is allowed one canopy sign over a public entrance. Only one canopy sign per business is permitted, each with a maximum sign area of ten square feet. Letter height shall not exceed 18 inches. Each tenant is allowed a maximum of three square feet placed on the vertical flap of the fabric awning. Backlit or internally-lit awning signs are prohibited. Each tenant is allowed one blade sign per pedestrian entrance, with a maximum size of six square feet. The sign must be placed within the occupied elevation leased and entirely between nine and 12 feet above grade. Only monument-style ground signs are permitted, with a maximum of 40 square feet per face for a total of 80 square feet for two-sided signs with an eight-foot maximum height. Fabric, pole-mounted, and other types of permanent signs are prohibited. Only wall and ground signs are permitted and must be integrated architecturally, with a maximum of 40 square feet per face for a total of 80 square feet for two-sided signs. Fabric, pole-mounted, and other types of permanent signs are prohibited. Multiple project identification/joint identification signs are permitted for an approved master plan for arterial street frontages provided they have a minimum separation of 150 feet apart. One sidewalk sign may be placed in front of the business that it advertises. Such signs shall maintain a clear six-foot wide pathway for pedestrians. The maximum size for a sidewalk sign is three feet by four feet. No permit is required for signs located on private property Sign Design and Color Criteria a. All monument style signs shall include a base constructed from the same primary materials as used on the main building; b. All letters on a sign shall be individual 3-D, engraved, or projecting can type. Cabinet signs are prohibited; and c. All colors used on a sign background shall match the colors used on the main building. All colors 1251 New heading From current , Table Previously applied to FBAD, City Center, TOD, RACs, SUNs, and Mixed-Use Main Streets. Revised to reflect consolidations of zoning districts proposed in Module 1. Mixed-use main streets are not currently defined in the Aurora code Current code in Table 16.7 simply states 3 x 4, without explanation if that is the maximum size of the sign or just a suggested dimension. We assumed that 3x4 is the maximum size for a sidewalk sign. Aurora, CO Page 310 Figure : Grand Projecting Sign update graphic

141 4.10. Signs District Specific Sign Regulations and materials used on structures and frames containing the sign face shall match materials and colors used on the main building. 3. Sign Illumination If a sign is illuminated, all letters on a sign shall be individually illuminated from an internal source, with the exception that wall signs are permitted to be illuminated entirely from downcast architectural lighting fixtures. A uniformly backlighted sign face is not permitted on any sign. B. Signs in the MU-OA District Applicability Where the MU-OA district regulations conflict with the requirements of this section, the district regulations shall govern Figure : Pedestrian and Roadside Subdistricts of MU-OA district 2. Sign Lettering a. Except for projecting signs, all sign text shall consist of three-dimensional individual letters of a material distinctive from the background to which it is attached. b. Cabinet type signs are prohibited. 3. Sign Lighting a. If a sign is to be internally illuminated, each sign letter shall be individually illuminated or "back-lit" from a shielded internal source. b. Signs with letters applied to an internally lit sign face or translucent internally lit awning are prohibited. c. Neon of any color on lettering and logos or neon accents is allowed. d. Wall, awning and projecting signs with opaque style lettering may be externally illuminated from adjacent downcast architectural lighting fixtures. e. Canopy signs may be "up-lighted" or "halo-lighted" if the light source is not open to the sky or visible from the ground. f. LED (light emitting diode) lighting is prohibited for sign illumination From the current , revised to reflect the elimination of the Colfax Mainstreet Overlay. Standards from that overlay were incorporated into the new MU-OA district as part of the Module 1 district consolidations From current (A), revised for clarity. Aurora, CO Page 311

142 4.10. Signs District Specific Sign Regulations 4. Permitted Sign Types and Standards in the MU-OA District 1256 Signs in the MU-OA district shall comply with the standards in Table Table Sign Regulations in the MU-OA District Sign Types Subdistrict Standards Size/Quantity Wall sign Alley wall sign Projecting sign Grand projecting sign Monument sign Canopy sign Awning sign Sidewalk sign Community banner Pedestrian Roadside Individual channel letters only. A wall or canopy sign, not both. Individual channel letters only. Pedestrian One alley wall sign is permitted up to a maximum of ten square feet. Roadside n/a n/a Such signs may be attached or suspended by a Pedestrian metal bracket or placed beneath a projecting canopy or arcade. A minimum ground clearance of nine feet in height is required. Roadside Prohibited n/a A single grand projecting sign is allowed for buildings located at street corners, buildings facing an open public plaza, or buildings occupying at least one-half block. Such projecting sign shall not extend more than Pedestrian five feet above roof peak or parapet or more than five feet beyond the face of its building. Such projecting sign shall maintain a minimum of ten feet clear distance from sidewalk to bottom of the sign. Canopy type signage at the base of the grand projecting sign is permitted to identify individual tenants. One per tenant per building street frontage up to 30 square feet. For those properties that exceed 60 linear feet of building frontage: ½ square foot per linear foot: Not to exceed 60 square feet. Size and number per the general sign standards in this Section One building-mounted projecting sign is allowed per tenant per each street/alley frontage, not to exceed 12 square feet per sign face. The canopy signage portion of the grand projecting sign shall not exceed 20 square feet. Roadside Prohibited n/a Monument signs are not permitted without a waiver 1257 from the Director. A waiver may only be granted if the proposed monument sign meets all the following design criteria: (a)there is sufficient plaza or other landscaped area outside of required rights-of-way on the Pedestrian applicants property to accommodate the sign; (b) The sign is designed with a solid base composed of brick or stone matching the materials on its associated building; and (c) The height of the sign does not exceed eight feet. Roadside Pedestrian Roadside Pedestrian Roadside Pedestrian All monument signs shall be placed on a sign base constructed of materials similar to the main building. All letters shall be individual channel letters and distinctive from the background. Per general sign standards. A canopy or wall sign, not both. Backlighting Total area shall not exceed 25 square feet. illumination of canopies is prohibited. One canopy sign is permitted in addition to the overall size and number permitted by this Section Total area shall not exceed 25 square feet. All awnings shall be constructed from an opaque fabric material. Backlighting of the awning is not permitted. Letter height may not exceed eight inches and may only be placed on the vertical front portion. Logos up to a maximum of three square feet may be placed on the slanted portion of the awning. Same as pedestrian subdistrict. One sidewalk sign may be placed in front of the business that it advertises. Such signs shall maintain a clear 6-foot wide pathway for pedestrians. In addition to the overall number and size allowed by this Section Sidewalk signs shall not exceed three feet by four feet. Roadside Prohibited n/a Community event and identification banners are permitted only if attached to street lights. Banners Pedestrian may remain in place for extended periods of time, but shall be kept in good repair and rotated on a 1256 Previously Table The term waiver will be revised in the consolidated draft to reference the new adjustment procedures proposed in Module 3. Aurora, CO Page 312

143 4.10. Signs District Specific Sign Regulations Table Sign Regulations in the MU-OA District seasonal basis or as appropriate for individual events. Temporary banner Roadside Prohibited n/a Pedestrian Prohibited n/a Roadside Per general sign standards. C. Colfax Avenue Sign Preservation Purpose The purpose of this subsection is to permit the preservation of signs that are illustrative of the city's history in the Post-World War II Era and that comply with the requirements provided in this subsection. The term "Post-World War II Era" refers to a popular style of design from that time, also known as exaggerated modern. The style is characterized by the use of exaggerated geometry, streamlined curves, and fanciful literal elements and lighting, particularly in its use of shapes reminiscent of amoebas, stars, atoms, rockets, and flying saucers. 2. Display a. Notwithstanding the provisions of this article to the contrary relating to height, area, and setback, the City Council hereby permits the continued display of signs it has designated based upon the finding that each sign complies with the following requirements: i. The sign is a least 25 years old. ii. The sign is of design representative of the Post-World War II Era. b. A list of council-designated signs shall be kept on file in the office of the director of planning. 3. Compliance Signs designated by the City Council in this Section C are granted exceptions to the provisions of this article regulating sign height, area, and setbacks. All other provisions, including permitted maximum number, shall apply. Nothing in this Section C shall exempt any sign not designated in this section from compliance with this Code, including other signs on the same premises as a designated sign. 4. Termination of Exemption a. The exemptions from the otherwise applicable sign code provisions granted in this section shall cease if: i. The designated sign is not maintained in the same style; ii. The designated sign is not maintained in good condition; iii. The lighting, including neon signage, is inoperative; or iv. The sign becomes unsightly due to paint peeling. b. The wording of these signs may be changed so long as all of the criteria and conditions of this section are complied with. 5. Board of Adjustment and Appeals Review The signs designated in this section shall not be eligible for variances or exceptions granted by the board of adjustment and appeals Removal, Alteration, Maintenance section moved to Section Aurora, CO Page 313

144 4.10. Signs Temporary Signs TEMPORARY SIGNS 1259 A. Standards for Temporary Signs That Require a Permit Table Sign Regulations for Temporary Signs that Require a Permit Sign Type Standards Size/Quantity Where Permitted Maximum two signs per residential development under construction. Monument Sign for an Allowed for up to 12 consecutive Total sign area per sign shall not On-Site Home Builder calendar months. exceed 200 square feet or 100 Growth area districts. square feet per side. Sign height shall not exceed 12 feet. Monument Sign for an Off-Site Home Builder Allowed for up to 12 consecutive calendar months. Maximum eight signs per builder. Each sign shall be a minimum of 600 feet from another sign of the same type Allowed in public right-of-way at least 120 feet from an intersection. Total sign area per sign shall not exceed 32 square feet or 16 square feet per side. Sign height shall not exceed 12 feet. Growth area districts with notification of adjacent property owner. B. Standards for Temporary Signs That Do Not Require a Permit 1261 Table Sign Regulations for Temporary Signs that Do Not Require a Permit Sign Type Application/Description Time Limitation Size/Quantity Temporary Development Sign Short-Term Event Sign Non-Commercial Event Sign Temporary Window Sign Apply to Temporary Development Signs such as those associated with the construction or proposed construction on a property or for advertising available tenant space for multi-tenant centers. These standards apply to short-term events such as open houses, garage sales, and home rental and sale signs. These standards apply to events such as a community fair or election. Election messages are permitted on any sign permitted by this Section 4.10 provided it conforms to the size and height limitations of such sign. Shall be removed upon building occupancy. Short- term event signs may be installed one day prior to the event, and shall be removed by the day after the event. Shall be removed within seven days after the event. Shall be limited to a period of 90 days per In residential areas: Shall not exceed six square feet. Shall not exceed four feet in height. In commercial areas: One sign allowed per street frontage of the main building. Shall not exceed 48 square feet. Shall not exceed eight feet in height. Shall not exceed six square feet per side, up to a maximum of 12 square feet. Shall not exceed four feet in height. Allowed up to four signs. Shall not exceed six square feet per side, up to a maximum of 12 square feet. Shall not exceed four feet in height. Signs shall not exceed 25 percent of the window pane in the Where Permitted All districts All districts All districts. Mixed-use and commercial 1259 From current Previously Tables 16.9 and Clarified that the 600 foot requirement is not from any sign, but rather another temporary monument sign for an off-site home builder From current Table Aurora, CO Page 314

145 4.10. Signs Sign Programs for Multi-Tenant Developments Table Sign Regulations for Temporary Signs that Do Not Require a Permit Fabric Sign Community Event Fabric Sign Wall Fabric Sign Ground Sidewalk Sign Inflatable, Balloon, or other Similar Device Community event fabric signs that promote community festivals, other events, or promotes the identity of a particular neighborhood or district. This standard applies to individual components or those tied together that exceed 20 inches in diameter. sign. Maximum of 30 days per event. Limited to 15 days maximum, up to six times per year. Limited to 15 days maximum, up to four times per year. Limited to 15 days maximum, up to four times per year. Limited to a period not to exceed 72 hours, up to once per year. pedestrian subdistrict in the MU-OA district. Signs shall not exceed 50 percent of the window pane in all other areas. Signs shall not exceed 200 square feet per individual business. Shall not exceed 200 square feet. One sign per business up to 200 square feet. Maximum total area for ground fabric and fabric wall signs is 200 square feet. One sign per business up to 100 square feet. Up to three signs are permitted for single uses with over 150 feet of street frontage. Shall not exceed 10 feet in height. Maximum total area for ground fabric and fabric wall signs is 200 square feet. Up to a maximum of three feet by four feet in area. districts. All districts. Allowed in commercial, mixed-use, and high-density multifamily districts Prohibited in the MU-OA pedestrian subdistrict. Allowed in commercial, mixed-use, and high-density multifamily districts Prohibited in the MU-OA pedestrian subdistrict. On private property. All districts SIGN PROGRAMS FOR MULTI-TENANT DEVELOPMENTS 1264 A. Intent The purposes of a uniform sign program are to: 1. Achieve a reasonable degree of sign uniformity and coordination; 2. Enhance the visual quality of the area through compatibility of the signs in color, shape, and materials; 3. Provide clarity and legibility for visitors to the project; and 4. Meet or exceed sign design standards. B. Applicability A uniform sign program shall be required for shopping centers, or for multi-use or multibuilding business, mixed-use, commercial, or industrial developments Previously large-scale multifamily Previously large-scale multifamily From current Aurora, CO Page 315

146 4.10. Signs Off-Premises Signs C. Large Scale Master Planned Communities For those master planned developments that exceed 90 acres located adjacent to a limited access roadway, one large scale multi-tenant or project identification sign is permitted. These signs shall not exceed 400 square feet per sign face, and shall not exceed 30 feet in height OFF-PREMISES SIGNS 1265 Off-premises signs, including billboards, shall be permitted in the I-2 district, within 1,000 feet of a highway in commercial and industrial areas, providing the conditions in this subsection are met A. Signs Permitted 1267 Ground Signs are permitted in accordance with the following standards: 1. One off-premises ground sign provided that not sign shall be less than 600 feet from another sign of this type. 2. Maximum sign area shall not exceed 100 square feet per side for double-faced signs. 3. Maximum sign area shall not exceed 200 square feet for single-faced signs. 4. Maximum height shall not exceed 25 feet. 5. If abutting residential use or district, the sign shall not be illuminated between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. B. Authorization Written permission from the property owner on which the sign is to be erected must accompany the original application and any renewal application. C. Visibility No sign shall be allowed to be visible from any freeway or interstate highway, or residential zoning districts. D. Site Plan Exists Where a sign is to be located on a site that has a site plan, approved under any provision of this Code, all tenants within the area covered by the site plan shall be notified of the application. The notice shall include the nature of the application and shall describe the rights of tenants to direct comments on the application to the city manager. E. No Site Plan Exists Where a sign is to be located on a site where no approved planned building group or other site plan exists, a plan showing the property boundary, and the size, height, location, and orientation of the proposed sign shall be submitted to the Director. F. Application Required The plan shall be accompanied by an application for approval by the owner of the property. G. Review The Director shall review and shall approve the sign in accordance with the following criteria: 1265 From current Type of advertisement section moved to definitions chapter Previously permitted in the B-3 (consolidated with B-1 and B-4 into MU-C district), M-2 and M-3 (consolidated into the I-2 district). Because B-3 district was previously intended for highway services, we limited off-premises signs to only areas in the MU-C district that are within 1,000 feet of highways. Needs further discussion for distance requirements some areas in current B-3 district may be further than that from highways. Off-premises signs are not allowed to be visible from highways, so we need to define an area far enough away, but that does not move into less highway-oriented uses Previously table Aurora, CO Page 316

147 4.10. Signs Identification and Marking 1. The sign shall conform with all other applicable or potentially applicable requirements of this article and the Aurora City Code; 2. The sign shall not obstruct the view of other signs or uses; and 3. The sign shall not be located within the potential future location of streets, drives or easements. H. Approval Period Approval for signs under this subsection shall be for a period of five years, at which time application for renewal for an additional five-year period may be made. I. Precedence Nothing in this subsection shall allow a sign to be within the location of any future streets, alleys, easements, fire lanes, access easements, or other requirements imposed during site plan review. Approval for a sign under this Section may be terminated by the city upon submittal of a site plan to the city, if such termination is necessary to comply with the criteria for review set forth in this Section J. Appeal 1268 Denial of the application by the Director may be appealed to the planning and zoning commission, provided that such appeal is filed with the Director or his designee within 10 calendar days following the denial IDENTIFICATION AND MARKING 1269 Each sign erected or remodeled shall bear in a prominent position thereon a clearly legible identification plate, stating the name of the person responsible for its construction and erection. Electrical signs shall be marked with input amperes at full load input STANDARDS, DESIGN QUALITY, AND MEASUREMENT 1270 A. Generally Signs may be erected, altered, and maintained only for those uses permitted in the zoning district where the signs are located, and shall be located on the same lot as the permitted use unless otherwise permitted by this Code. B. Repairing Painting, repainting, or cleaning of an advertising structure or the changing of the advertising copy or the message shall not require a sign permit, unless it is located within the MU-OA district, a structural change is made, or unless the sign is a nonconforming sign. C. Message Substitution A non-commercial message may be substituted for a commercial message on any sign permitted by this Section D. Standards 1. Setback All signs on private property must be setback four feet from back of sidewalk and may not be placed in street medians, corner sight triangles or within a parking space. In the absence of a sidewalk, such sign shall be located 21 feet from the flowline of the street This section will be moved to the administration and enforcement chapter From current From current Maintenance provisions moved to Section Simplifies current (G). Aurora, CO Page 317

148 4.10. Signs Standards, Design Quality, and Measurement 2. Revocable Permit 1272 Signs shall not be located in the public right-of-way, unless duly authorized by this article. Signs requiring permits to be installed in the public right-of-way or easement shall only be allowed upon execution of a revocable permit with the city. 3. Landscaping Signs shall not be attached to or disturb landscape materials. 4. Building Permit Permanent signs higher than six feet in height shall require a building permit. 5. Sight Triangle Private signs shall not be located within the 30-foot sight triangle. 6. Interior Signs Signs setback four feet within a building shall not be regulated by these standards. 7. Wall Signs Wall signs shall be permitted to the maximum height of the wall structure. Signs on buildings with a flat roof will be permitted to the top of the parapet wall. Structures with peaked roofs may have wall signs to the height of the lowest point of the roof structure. Wall signs may project into the public right-of-way to a maximum depth of 18 inches. 8. Letter Height The average height of letters shall be restricted to a maximum of 48 inches. 9. Animation No sign shall flash, blink, rotate, or fluctuate. E. Design Quality 1. Architectural and Visual Compatibility 1273 Sign type, scheme, size, and illumination within a development shall be coordinated and compatible with the site's architectural character. 2. Informational Signage Within each development, information signage and way-finding systems shall be of a unified graphical system. They shall be placed in consistent locations near site entries, key points on the internal automobile circulation system, building entries, seating areas, and sidewalk intersections. 3. Sign Shape 1274 The silhouette of signs shall be simple and compatible with the building or facade they relate to. 4. Illumination Illumination shall be shielded so there is no glare in the public right-of-way and adjacent properties, and directed so light does not stray above the light source horizontally. All lighting elements shall be kept in working condition. 5. Materials 1272 Combines current (D)2 and (D) Removed There shall be architectural harmony and unity of signs within a development Removed Signs of excessively complicated design, composed of many different connected shapes, or that disrupt the architectural order and composition of a building shall not be allowed. Aurora, CO Page 318

149 4.10. Signs Standards, Design Quality, and Measurement Materials and textures of signs shall be consistent with the architectural character of the site and building. Supporting sign structures of monument signs shall match the primary finish and colors of the associated building(s). Sign materials not permitted include: plywood, fabric/paper (except for temporary signs), wall siding, fencing or roofing material, plain concrete masonry units. 6. Placement 1275 Attached signs shall not overlap or cover features of the building such as cornices, eaves, window and doorframes, columns and other decorative elements. 7. Views Ground or freestanding signs shall not be placed where they obscure important architectural features such as entrances, display windows, or decorative elements when viewed from the public right-of-way. F. Measurement 1. Area to Be Measured a. The structure or bracing of a sign shall be omitted from measurement unless such structure or bracing is made part of the message or face of the sign. Figure : Channel Letters in Colfax b. Where a sign has two or more display Overlay. faces, the area of all faces shall be included in determining the area of the sign. 2. Wall Signs 1276 a. In the MU-OA district, channel letter signs in the Colfax Overlay district shall be measured as shown in Figure b. All other districts: i. Channel Letters/Logos the area of any sign displaying individual letters on a background (facade, wall, divisional wall, awning or canopy) shall be measured by encompassing all the letters and graphics in a geometric form consisting of no more than eight rectilinear lines at right angles to each other. ii. Two capital and two lower case extensions may be exempted from being included in the area of measurement. Capital letters and lower case extensions may not exceed twice the height of lower case letters. See Figures and Figure : Channel Letters in Other Districts Figure : Cabinet and Wall Signs with Backing Figure : Measurement of Monument Signs 1275 Removed Attached signs shall not disrupt the architectural composition update of the graphic building facade From current Figure Aurora, CO Page 319

150 4.11. Operating and Maintenance Standards Maintenance Requirements 3. Monument Signs Must calculate both the front and back sign faces. See Figure OPERATING AND MAINTENANCE STANDARDS MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS A. General All property in Aurora shall be maintained in a clean and safe condition and shall not create a public or private nuisance. 2. When the standards and procedures of this Code or the conditions attached to any permit, approval, or variance require that any building or site feature be constructed or installed, the property owner is responsible for maintaining those building or site features in good repair, and for replacing them if they are damaged or destroyed or, in the case of living materials, if they become diseased or die after installation. B. Landscaping Trees, shrubs, fences, walls and other landscaping materials required by this Code or shown on approved site plans are required elements of the approved project, unless the site plan clearly indicates that they are to be removed or altered. The property owner is responsible for the continued existence and maintenance of those items. 2. Infected, damaged, or diseased plant material shall be treated to remove the infection, damage, or disease, if such a treatment exists, and shall be removed and replaced if no such treatment exists. 3. Trees required to be installed by this Code that are lost to damage or disease within two years after installation shall be replaced by the property owner within six months at a ratio of one inch of Diameter at Breast Height (DBH) for each inch of DBH removed. 4. Shrubbery or other plantings that die within 18 months of installation shall be replaced in kind within six months. 5. Branches of maturing street trees encroaching into this zone shall be pruned to a height of not less than eight feet above each walkway, sidewalk, alley, and public right-of-way. Pruning shall conform to forestry division standards. C. Building Exterior 1280 All primary and accessory building exteriors shall be maintained to comply with the following standards, and any necessary repairs, repainting, removals, or other actions needed to bring the property into compliance with these standards shall be made within 90 days after the city notifies the property owner of a violation. 1. Exterior Walls Every exterior wall shall be kept weatherproof, watertight, and kept free of deterioration, holes, breaks, loose or rotting boards, or timbers, except when under approved repairs or reconstruction From current and with changes as noted New provision to reflect current practice New section From , with text clarified; now made applicable throughout the city. This subsection is still being reviewed for whether low-density residential districts or single-family homes should be excluded from some or all of these standards. Aurora, CO Page 320

151 4.11. Operating and Maintenance Standards Maintenance Requirements 2. Painting or Staining When 30 percent of the finished surface of a building exhibits deterioration of its finished surface on any wall, that wall shall be painted or stained. 3. Architectural Projections All shutters, cornices, moldings, lintels, sills, windows and similar projections shall be kept in good repair and free from cracks and defects that make them hazardous or unsightly. Awnings designed to be covered with fabric or opaque materials shall be covered with those materials, so that bare frames are not visible. 4. Roof Surfaces Roof surfaces shall have no defects that admit water. All roof drainage systems shall be secured and hung properly, and shall be maintained to avoid the blockage of rainwater. 5. Boarded Windows and Doors Building windows and doors that have been boarded and secured shall be painted or stained to be compatible in color with the adjacent or surrounding walls. D. Fences and Walls 1. Maintenance Responsibility along Arterials and Collectors 1281 Except where a fence or wall is provided by the city or other governmental entity, the maintenance of all new fences and walls occurring in subdivisions of five or more residential lots along collector and arterial streets, as well as the landscaped setback area between the sidewalk and fence or wall, shall be the responsibility of a homeowners association composed of the owners of the residential subdivision lots. Where no Homeowners Association exists, maintenance shall be the responsibility of the property owner on whose property the fence is placed General Requirement to Maintain Fences 1283 All fences and adjacent landscaping shall be maintained by their owners in good structural condition and in good repair at all times. This shall include general maintenance, painting and staining, and the replacement of any broken, warped, or missing portions of the fences with materials of equal or better quality and that are consistent in design, appearance and structural integrity. All fences shall be vertically aligned and structurally sound. Areas adjacent to fences and hedges shall be maintained in a clean and sanitary condition, free and clear of all rubbish and weeds. Angled or nonvertical fence post supports are not permitted. 3. Maintenance and Repairs Not Requiring a Permit 1284 a. Maintenance and repairs to fences that require a permit under Section XX [Now ] may be carried out without meeting all the location, design, and material requirements of this Code and without an additional fence permit if all of the following conditions are met: i. The work to be performed meets the definition of maintenance and repair in Section XX [now ]; and ii. The work meets the general construction requirements of Section XX [now ]. b. Maintenance and repairs to those fences that require a fence permit under Section XX [now ] that does not meet the conditions of Section D.(3)(a) 1281 From current References to ownership responsibilities changed to maintenance responsibilities From From Aurora, CO Page 321

152 4.11. Operating and Maintenance Standards Operating Standards E. Signs 1285 above shall require a fence permit and, at the discretion of the Director of Planning, may be required to meet all or some of the standards listed in this article. The following standards apply to all signs, including those that do not require a sign permit and those that do not conform to the requirements of this UDO. 1. Every sign, shall be maintained in good structural condition at all times. Fabric signs shall be maintained in a taut and unsoiled condition. 2. Any sign that becomes damaged, dilapidated, or dangerous shall be repaired or removed. If the paint on any sign has checked, peeled, or flaked to the extent that the sign cannot be read in whole or in part, the sign shall be repainted or removed. Signs that contain messages that have become obsolete because of the termination of the use or business or product advertised, or for some other reason, shall have such message removed within 60 days after becoming obsolete. F. Landmarks and Structures in Historic Districts 1286 All features of historic landmarks or landmark districts shall be maintained to prevent deterioration of all features, including features protected from alteration pursuant to the City Council's exception from provisions of this UDO. G. Abandoned Construction 1287 Any building or portion of a building that has been abandoned or upon which construction has ceased shall have a chain link security fence, no less than six feet high erected around the building, and at least one no trespassing sign attached to that fence, within 90 days after receiving notice to do so from the city. Enforcement of this section may be against either the owner, the holder of any mortgage, the beneficiary under a deed of trust, or any person in possession of the property. H. Stormwater Management System Maintenance 1288 Every yard, court, vent passageway, parking lot, driveway, and other portion of the lot on which the building stands shall be maintained to be consistent with original grading and drainage standards and to prevent accumulation of water on any such surface or adjacent property OPERATING STANDARDS A. Outdoor Display 1289 Retailers of both new and used merchandise shall be permitted to display outdoors, provided the outdoor display meets the following standards. 1. General Requirements a. Merchandise shall be displayed in a clean and orderly manner. b. Display of merchandise must be set back ten feet from all property lines. c. No merchandise may be placed: i. On a public sidewalk ii. On the property or leased area of another owner or tenant without their permission; 1285 New provisions. Enforcement provisions moved to administration and enforcement chapter From current From current , now made applicable to the entire city From current (F) From current , reorganized and with text clarified, with changes as noted. This material will be moved to be a usespecific standard for the outdoor display accessory use. Aurora, CO Page 322

153 4.11. Operating and Maintenance Standards Operating Standards iii. On required landscaped areas; iv. Within three feet of either side of a working doorway; v. Within ten feet directly in front of a working doorway; or vi. In a designated sight triangle or in any location that would impair a driver's view of a street. d. Merchandise may be placed on a private sidewalk as long as a four-foot walkway clearance is maintained. e. Merchandise may be placed in a parking lot, provided that the merchandise is related to a permitted primary use on the property and the minimum number of required offstreet parking spaces for primary uses on the property are maintained. Parking lot sales by independent contractors who are not the owner or tenant of a permanent structure on the property are not permitted. 2. Outdoor Display of Used Merchandise Except for uses involving the outdoor display of vehicles, equipment or home building or landscaping materials, the size of the outdoor display area for used merchandise shall not exceed ten percent of the total indoor gross floor area of the business conducting the sale, or 100 square feet, whichever is less, and no used merchandise shall be displayed or stored or otherwise left outdoors during non-operating hours of the business B. Outdoor Storage 1291 Outdoor storage of materials, equipment, and merchandise is permitted in the following cases, provided that the standards in this section are met. 1. Vehicle or Equipment Sales or Rental Businesses Outdoor storage areas for vehicles and equipment offered for sale or rental is permitted, provided the outdoor storage area is fully screened from view from adjacent properties by an approved treatment that may include building placement, walls, fencing, and landscaping. Such storage areas shall not be located in the front setback or buffer area. 2. Outdoor Storage in Industrial Districts 1292 a. Towing services, trash removal services, or landscape contractor yards with outdoor storage or equipment materials, abandoned or inoperable vehicle storage, and similar uses are not permitted b. Railroad boxcars and trailers may not be used for storage or warehousing purposes. c. No highly inflammable or explosive liquids, solids, or gases shall be stored in bulk above ground. Tanks or drums or fuel directly connected with heating devices or appliances located on the same site as the tanks or drums of fuel are excluded from this provision as well as liquefied and gaseous noncombustible materials. C. Glare, Heat, Smoke, Fumes, Radiation, and Odors 1294 Every use shall be operated so that it does not exceed an objectionable or dangerous degree of glare, heat, fumes, electromagnetic radiation, nuclear radiation, or odors beyond any boundary line of the site on which the use is located. Applicants shall provide all information 1290 Staff is evaluating these requirements for revisions to allow for increased flexibility in light of the growing sharing/reusing economy From current , reorganized and with text clarified, with changes as noted. This material will be moved to be a usespecific standard for the outdoor storage accessory use References to specific districts and uses where outdoor storage is permitted were not included, since they are addressed in the permitted use table. Provisions for waiver not included because covered by general provisions on adjustments in new Chapter Limitations in clauses a and b will be included in the definition of outdoor storage From current (C)1 and , now applicable to entire city. Aurora, CO Page 323

154 4.11. Operating and Maintenance Standards Operating Standards necessary for the adequate review of potential impacts by the city, Tri-County Health Department, the State Department of Health, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and other agencies as appropriate. D. Vibration 1295 Every use shall be operated so that the ground vibration inherently and recurrently generated is not perceptible, without instruments, at any point on any boundary line of the site on which the use is located. E. Noise 1296 All activities shall comply with the maximum noise standards in this subsection E unless specifically another provision of this Code or another regulation of the city applies a different standard. All sound measurements shall be made on a sound level meter that meets American National Standards Institute (ANSI) specifications S or successor document for type I or type II equipment. 1. Prohibited Activities The following standards apply to all uses and development in the city, unless another Code or ordinance provides a different noise standard for a specific use or context, in which case the standard for the more specific use or context shall apply. a. Generating sound levels that exceed the limits established in the neighboring land zone category specified in Table when measured at or within the property boundary of the neighboring land zone. b. Using, operating, or permitting the use or operation of any radio receiving set, loudspeaker, musical instrument, television, phonograph, tape player, or other machine or device for the production or reproduction of sound in such a manner as to violate the maximum permissible sound levels in Table , is prohibited. c. Using or operating any loudspeaker, public address system, or similar device for noncommercial purposes, between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m., in a manner that creates a noise disturbance to a residential real property boundary is prohibited, unless the activity is authorized by a temporary permit. d. Idling or permitting the idling of a motor or any stationary diesel fuel burning vehicle or motor vehicle of any kind for a period in excess of 15 minutes in any hour, within the city limits at any time is prohibited. This section shall not apply to: i. Engines that must be operated in the idle mode for safety reasons, including but not limited to cranes and forklifts used in the construction industry; and ii. Uses where freight drivers sleep in their cabs, provided that the location of the idling is at least one-quarter mile from residential dwellings and from residential zone district boundaries e. Emitting a periodic, impulsive, or shrill sounds that exceeds five dba less than the maximum permitted between 7:00 am and 9:00 in Table Maximum Permissible Sound Levels 1295 From current (C) and , now made applicable to the entire city From through 1804 and , with changes as noted. Purpose statement deleted as unnecessary. Materials on waivers and temporary relief will be included with adjustment procedures in chapter on procedures and administration Provision applying this exception only when temperatures are below 40 or above 70 degrees was deleted. Aurora, CO Page 324

155 4.11. Operating and Maintenance Standards Operating Standards Table Maximum Permissible Sound Levels [1] Adjacent Land Use [2] Max decibels (dba) 7am-9pm Max decibels (dba) 9pm-7am Residential Commercial or Mixed Use I-1 Zoning District I-2 Zoning District Notes [1] Construction work is subject to standards applicable to the I-2 district from 7 am to 5 pm, the standards applicable to the I-1 district from 5 pm to 9 pm, and the standards based on adjacent land uses between 9 pm and 7am Operation of trash compactor trucks is subject to the standards applicable to the I-2 district at all times. [2] If there is more than one adjacent land use, the standard for the more restrictive applies 3. Exemptions The following uses and activities shall be exempt from sound level regulations: a. Sound made by safety signals, warning devices, and sound resulting from any authorized emergency vehicle when responding to an emergency call or acting in time of emergency; b. Sound emanating from activities permitted through the issuance of a special use permit, including parades and fireworks displays; c. Sound emanating from city-sanctioned activities, including those at city parks and recreational facilities, or private activities at the facilities as authorized through a valid permit. F. Burning Restrictions High Pollution Prohibition a. No person may operate a solid fuel fired heating device during a high pollution day unless an exemption has been granted pursuant to Subsection 2 below. It shall be the duty of all persons owning or operating solid fuel fired devices to be aware of any declaration of a high pollution day by the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment. b. At the time of the declaration of a high pollution day, the city manager shall allow three hours for the burn down of existing fires in solid fuel burning devices prior to the initiation of enforcement. 2. Exemption a. A person who relies on a solid fuel fired heating device as his or her sole source of heat may apply to the city manager for a temporary exemption from subsection 1 above. An exemption obtained under this section shall be effective for 12 months from the date it is granted. b. Burning in a Colorado Phase III certified device or in a solid fuel fired heating device shall be exempt from Subsection 1, provided the device meets standards established under state statute or Colorado Air Quality Control Commission regulations on the date the device is installed, as demonstrated by a test by a U.S. Environmental 1298 Standard in current (B)3 simplified From , with changes as noted. Provisions for inspection and enforcement will be included in the chapter on Procedures and Administration. Aurora, CO Page 325

156 4.11. Operating and Maintenance Standards Operating Standards Protection Agency accredited laboratory and safety tested to Underwriters' Laboratories, Inc. 3. Non-owner-occupied Dwelling Units It shall be unlawful for a solid fuel fired heating device to be the sole source of heat in any non-owner-occupied dwelling unit. Any violation of Subsection 1 by the tenant of such a dwelling unit shall be considered a violation by the owner of the dwelling unit if a solid fuel fired heating device is the tenant's sole source of heat, and the owner (not the tenant) shall be liable for any penalty imposed. G. Hazardous Materials 1300 All uses and activities shall comply with all state statutes and regulations regarding the use, storage, handling, and transportation of flammable liquids, liquefied petroleum, gases, explosives, hazardous materials, hazardous wastes, toxic materials and solid wastes, as those terms are defined by applicable statutes, rules, regulations, or ordinances. H. Waste Materials No materials or wastes shall be deposited upon a zone lot in such form or manner that natural causes or forces may transfer them off the site. 2. All materials or wastes that may cause fumes or dust, or that constitute a fire hazard, or that may be edible by or otherwise attractive to rodents or insects shall be stored outdoors except in closed trash containers that are screened from adjacent property. 3. All biomedical wastes that are processed through ozonation treatment shall either be beneficially reused, recycled, or rendered safe for disposal in a municipal solid waste landfill or other approved disposal facility. I. Animals and Poultry 1302 Except as permitted in agricultural and R-A zone districts, or as permitted by Section and , no animals, livestock or poultry, other than household pets, shall be housed, kept, or sheltered within the city New provision From (C) and , now applicable to the entire city From , modified to reflect recent ordinance allowing poultry. Aurora, CO Page 326

157 Article 146-6: Definitions and Rules of Construction Commentary: Current definitions that were carried forward are not footnoted. This Article is divided into the following parts: Rules of construction generally how terms are used and interpreted throughout the UDO. Terms of measurement definitions for terms that define how lots, areas, or structures are measured. Use definitions definitions provided for each use category, as well as each specific land use in the permitted use table. Many of the definitions were carried over from the existing code and the remaining were either developed based on other similar codes, or revised based on existing Aurora definitions. Other definitions this section includes all other definitions that are neither terms of measurement nor specific uses. This list was expanded significantly with Modules 2, and will continue to grow with Module 3. *Definitions that were not yet included with Module 1 or 2 (new with this Module 3) are shaded in light tan. 6.1 GENERALLY All provisions, terms, phrases, and expressions contained in this UDO shall be construed according to the purposes set out in Section Terms not defined in this Article shall be interpreted based on standard usage. When not otherwise defined in this Article, categories of allowed uses shall be interpreted by the director RULES OF CONSTRUCTION TECHNICAL TERMS Words and phrases shall be construed according to the common and approved usage of the language, but technical words and phrases that may have acquired a peculiar and appropriate meaning in law shall be construed and understood according to such meaning. More specifically: A. The words "owner," "person," or "developer" include a firm, association, partnership, trust, company, or a corporation as well as an individual. B. The words "used" or "occupied" include the words "intended, arranged, maintained or designed to be used or occupied". C. The word "lot" includes the words "plot" or "parcel." D. The words "existing," "existed," "exists," and "occupied" shall imply the modifier "lawfully." E. The terms "district," zone, "zone district," and "zoning district" shall all refer to the zoning districts defined by this UDO LISTS AND EXAMPLES Unless otherwise specifically indicated, lists of items or examples that use terms such as "for example," "including," and "such as," or similar language are intended to provide examples, not to be exhaustive lists of all possibilities ; revised to place using the North American Industry Classification System, Executive Office of the President Office of Management and Budget, 1997, as amended with the director Mostly carried forward from (A) through (O); revised for clarity and organization by new headings. New provisions are indicated as such. Unified Development Ordinance, Modules 1, 2 and 3 Staff Draft April 2016 Aurora, CO Page 385

158 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.3. Terms of Measurement Computation of Time COMPUTATION OF TIME The time in which an act is to be done shall be computed by excluding the first day and including the last day. If a deadline or required date of action falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or holiday observed by the city, the deadline or required date of action shall be the next day that is not a Saturday, Sunday, or a holiday observed by the city PUBLIC BODIES, DOCUMENTS, AND AUTHORITY A. All public officials, bodies, and agencies to which references are made are those of the City of Aurora, unless otherwise expressly stated. B. Whenever reference is made to a resolution, ordinance, statute, regulation, or document, it shall be to the most recent edition of such regulation, resolution, ordinance, statute, regulation, or document, unless otherwise specifically stated. C. Whenever a provision appears requiring the head of a department or another officer or employee of the city to perform an act or duty, that provision shall be construed as authorizing the department head or officer to delegate that responsibility to others over whom they have authority MANDATORY AND DISCRETIONARY TERMS The words "shall," "will," and "must" are always mandatory. The words "may" and "should" are discretionary terms CONJUNCTIONS Unless the context clearly suggests the contrary, conjunctions shall be interpreted as follows: A. "And" indicates that all connected items, conditions, provisions or events apply; and B. "Or" indicates that one or more of the connected items, conditions, provisions or events apply TENSES, PLURALS, AND GENDER A. Words used in one tense (past, present, or future) include all other tenses, unless the context clearly indicates the contrary. B. The singular includes the plural and the plural the singular, unless the context clearly indicates the contrary. C. Words used in the masculine gender include the feminine gender and vice versa HEADINGS, ILLUSTRATIONS, AND TEXT In case of any difference of meaning or implication between the text of this UDO and any heading, drawing, table, figure or illustration, the text shall control. 6.3 TERMS OF MEASUREMENT 1495 Abutting Refers to two or more properties or zone lots sharing a common border or separated only by a public or private right-of-way or by public open space or body of water not more than 1,000 feet in width New provision Carried over from current definitions in Article 20. Aurora, CO Page 386

159 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.3. Terms of Measurement Headings, Illustrations, and Text Adjacent Property Owner An owner of a lot or property that shares all or part of a common lot line with another lot or parcel of land. A lot or property is adjacent when separated only by a public street, water body, or public land. Alley-Loaded Describes a garage or lot on which the driveway or garage access comes from an alley. Area, Building The total of areas taken on a horizontal plane of the main grade level of the principal building and all accessory buildings, exclusive of uncovered porches, terraces, and steps. Area, Minimum Building The minimum area of the principal building exclusive of uncovered porches, terraces, and steps permitted on a zone lot. Area, Minimum Site The minimum area of land exclusive of dedicated rights-of-way required for development of a site. Area, Site per Dwelling Unit The gross site area divided by the number of dwelling units on a site. Back of Sidewalk The side of a street sidewalk closest to the abutting lot line. Block a parcel of land within a platted subdivision bounded on all sides by streets or avenues, other physical boundaries such as a body of water, or the exterior boundary of a platted subdivision. Building Front or Frontage The elevation of a building facing a street, motor court, loop lane, or drive lane from which the building's main pedestrian entrance can be accessed most directly. Except that in the case of a single- or two-family home, the building front shall never be designated as the elevation facing a drive lane. In no case shall a building front be designated as the elevation facing an alley. Building Line A line parallel to the street line touching that part of a building closest to the street. Bulk Plane [To be added] Density The number of families, individuals, dwelling units, households, or housing structures per unit of land. Double Frontage Lot A platted lot where both front and rear property lines face a street (or a designated open space along a street). Fences along a Street The term "fences along a street" shall mean fences that are both (1) located within 75 feet of a street right-of-way and, (2) easily visible from the same street. Fence Height Fence heights as regulated in this article shall be measured from the highest adjoining grade to the top of the fence sections running between posts or columns. Front-Loaded Describes a garage or lot on which the driveway access is directly off of the street in front of the house. Frontage, Lot The width of a lot measured at the front street right-of-way line. Aurora, CO Page 387

160 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.3. Terms of Measurement Headings, Illustrations, and Text Floor Area, Gross The sum of the horizontal areas of all the floors of a building or structure as measured from the exterior face of exterior walls, or from the centerline of a wall separating two buildings, but excluding any space where the floor-to-ceiling height is less than six feet. The area of parking garages contained within a building shall not be included in the calculation. Floor Area, Net The total of all floor areas of a building excluding stairwells and elevator shafts, equipment rooms, interior vehicle parking or loading, and all floors below the first or ground floor except when used or intended to be used for human habitation or service to the public. Floor Area Ratio (FAR) The gross floor area of all buildings or structures on a lot divided by the total lot area. Insert graphic Height, Building 1496 For a building, the vertical distance above a reference point measured to the highest point of the coping of a flat roof or the deck line of a mansard roof or to the a point halfway between the eave and the highest point on a pitched or hipped roof For a non-building structure, the vertical distance above a reference point measured to the highest point on the structure. For both buildings and structures, the reference point shall be whichever of the following yields a greater height of building or structure: 1. The elevation of the highest adjoining sidewalk or ground surface within a five-foot distance of the exterior wall of the building when such sidewalk or ground surface is not more than 10 feet above the lowest grade. 2. An elevation 10 feet higher than the lowest grade when the sidewalk or ground surface described in Subsection 1 of this definition is more than 10 feet above lowest grade. The height of a stepped or terraced building is the maximum height of any segment of the building. Insert graphic Landscaped Area An unoccupied space open to the sky on the same lot with the building consisting of private landscaped areas, open recreational facilities, and areas used exclusively for pedestrian and non-motorized traffic. Parking lots, recreational vehicle and equipment storage areas, public and private roadways, and structures shall not be included as landscaped area. Lot A designated parcel, tract or area of land established by plat, subdivision map, or as otherwise permitted by law, to be separately owned, used, developed or built on. Lot Area (or Lot Size) The total horizontal area included within lot lines. Lot, Corner A lot or parcel of land abutting on two or more streets at their intersection or on two parts of the same street forming an interior angle of less than 135 degrees. Lot Coverage The footprint of any building or structure designed for human occupancy or employment. Lot Depth, Minimum The distance between the front and rear lots lines of a lot. Where the side lot lines are parallel, the depth shall be measured with a line that is parallel to the side lot lines Combines nearly identical provisions for building and structure height Definition revised to measure height of pitched room halfway between eave and gable which is the standard method. Aurora, CO Page 388

161 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.3. Terms of Measurement Headings, Illustrations, and Text Lot Line A line of record bounding a lot that divides one lot from another lot or from a public or private street or any other public space. Lot Line, Front The lot line separating a lot from a street right-of-way. Lot Line, Interior Side A side lot line that does not abut a street. Lot Line, Rear The lot line opposite and most distant from the front lot line. In the case of triangular or otherwise irregularly shaped lots, a line 10 feet in length entirely within the lot, parallel to and at a maximum distance from the front lot line. Lot Line, Reverse Corner A lot configuration where the rear yard of the lot in question abuts an adjacent property s front and side yard Lot Line, Side Any lot line other than a front or rear lot line. Lot Line, Street Any lot line that abuts a street (but not an alley). On a corner lot, there are two or more street lot lines. Lot Line, Street Side A lot line that is both a side lot line and a street lot line. Insert one graphic depicting lots and lot lines. Lot, Wedge Wedge-shaped lots shall be defined as single-family detached lots where the lot width as measured at the front lot line is narrower by at least one foot than the minimum frontage required as measured at the front setback line Update graphic Lot Width at Setback The length of a straight line connecting the points at which the front setback line intersects with each side lot line. Non-Street Frontage The perimeter area of a site that does not abut a public or private right-of-way. Principal Building The primary structure located on a zone lot, and designed for a use or occupancy that is a permitted primary use in the zoning district applicable to the zone lot. Setback The distance between the building and any lot line or roadway flowline if closer than the nearest lot line. Setback, Front (or Street) A setback extending across the full width of the front of a lot, the required depth of which is measured from the street right-of-way line. Setback, Rear A setback that is to extend across the full width of the rear of a lot, the required depth of which is measured from the rear lot line From current (b)1. Aurora, CO Page 389

162 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.3. Terms of Measurement Headings, Illustrations, and Text Setback, Side A setback that extends from the front setback line to the rear setback line, the required depth of which is measured from at a right angle from the interior side lot line. Setback, Street Side A setback that extends from the front lot line to the rear lot line along a street frontage that is not a front setback line, the required depth of which is measured from the street side lot line. Setback Line That line that is the required minimum distance from any lot line and that establishes the area within which principal or accessory structures shall be erected or placed. Site A parcel of land included in a site plan or other plan submitted to the city for approval that is occupied or capable of being occupied by one or more buildings, and the accessory buildings or uses customarily incident to it, including such open spaces as are required by this UDO. Site Area, Gross The total of area of land, prior to any deductions for internal streets or areas to be conveyed to the city, which is included within a Master Plan, Site Plan or other plan submitted to the City for review or approval. Yard That portion of a site not occupied by a building housing the principal and accessory uses. Yard, Front The open space on the same site with the building between every point on the front of such principal building and the front lot line of the site, extending the full width of the site, and measured perpendicularly to the building at the closest point to the front lot line. On a corner lot, the open space adjacent to the shorter street right-of-way shall be considered the front yard. Yard, Rear The open space on the same site with the building between the rear line of the principal building and the rear line of the site, extending the full width of the site, and measured perpendicular to the building at the closest point to the rear lot line. Yard, Required The open space between a lot line and the yard line within which no structure shall be located except as provided in this UDO. Yard, Side The open space on the same site with the principal building situated between the building and the side line of the site and extending from the front yard to the rear yard. Aurora, CO Page 390

163 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.3. Terms of Measurement Headings, Illustrations, and Text Zone (or Zoning District) A specifically delineated area or district in the city within which regulations and requirements in this UDO govern the use, placement, spacing, and the size of land and buildings Wording revised to clarify that Subarea regulation are permitted, pursuant to current practice. Aurora, CO Page 391

164 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Generally Zone Lot A designated single parcel of contiguous land occupied by or capable of being occupied by a use or structure, the area of which is contained within the boundaries of one or more contiguous ownerships, plus one-half of any abutting alley and including one-half of any abutting dedicated street. 6.4 USE DEFINITIONS GENERALLY Accessory Structure A structure detached from a principal building located on the same lot and customarily incidental and subordinate to the principal building or use. Accessory Building An attached or detached subordinate structure located on the same zone lot with the principal building, the use of which is customary and incidental to the use of the principal building. Accessory Use A use of land or of a building or portion of the land or building customarily incidental and subordinate to the principal use of the land or building and located on the same lot with the principal use. Dwelling or Dwelling Unit A building or portion of a building designed to provide independent living facilities including a full kitchen and bath to an individual, family group, or group home relationship. Mixed-Use A land use where both residential and non-residential land uses are permitted within a zoning district are combined on a lot or within a structure or development, and where the different types of land uses are in close proximity Mixed-Use Building Any building that contains both residential and non-residential uses. Principal Use The primary or predominant use of any lot or parcel. Use The purpose or activity for which land or buildings are designed, arranged, or intended or for which land or buildings are occupied or maintained RESIDENTIAL USES Household Living 1501 This land use category (containing individual land uses) is characterized by residential occupancy of a dwelling unit by a household. Tenancy is arranged on a month-to-month or longer basis (lodging where tenancy may be arranged for a period of less than 30 days is classified under the lodging category). Common accessory uses include recreational activities, raising of pets, gardens, personal storage buildings, hobbies, and parking of the occupants vehicles. Specific use types include, but are not limited to the following: 1500 Revised to clarify that the term applies to mixes of residential and non-residential uses, and to delete the phrase, planned as a unified complementary whole, and are functionally integrated as to the use of shared vehicular and pedestrian access and parking areas because many mixed-use developments do not meet this requirement but still provide the benefits of mixed land uses New definition for use category. Aurora, CO Page 392

165 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Residential Uses Dwelling, Single-Family Attached (Townhouse) 1502 Three or more dwelling units where each unit is attached to other units by party walls, and where habitable spaces of different units are arranged in a side-by-side, rather than a stacked configuration. Dwelling, Single-Family Detached 1503 A single dwelling unit in a single building not attached to any other buildings other than those accessory to the dwelling. This use includes: 1. Garden court single-family dwellings, dwellings clustered around a common open space or courtyard with three or more dwellings sharing a single ownership lot that includes a common open space or courtyard. 2. Tiny houses containing less than 600 square feet of gross floor area Dwelling, Co-housing Development 1505 A residential development that combines individual owned dwelling units with smaller or partial kitchens and a larger community kitchen and dining room intended for communal use on a regular basis, and in which all residents agree to share in the provision of regular communal services such as cooking meals or providing child care. Dwelling, Cottage Development Small, infill project consisting of small single-family detached cottages, each containing no more than 800 square feet of gross floor area in which project density is measured by the total square footage of cottage dwelling unit gross floor area instead of the number of dwelling units. Dwelling, Live/Work An integrated housing unit and working space, occupied and used by a single household in either a single-family dwelling or multifamily dwelling, that has been designed or structurally modified to accommodate joint residential occupancy and work activity, and includes: 1. Complete kitchen space and sanitary facilities; and 2. Working space reserved for and regularly used by one or more occupant of the unit. Dwelling, Multifamily 1506 A building with three or more separate independent housekeeping dwelling units for permanent occupancy with separate rooms for sleeping, eating, and cooking, where such units have habitable living spaces arranged in a stacked configuration. This use does not include hotels, motels, or inns, regardless of the length of stay of customers of such motels, hotels, or inns. Three types of multifamily buildings are defined as follows: 1. Small multifamily buildings shall mean multifamily buildings containing between three and eight dwelling units per building intended for either sale or rent. 2. Medium multifamily buildings shall mean multifamily buildings containing more than eight but no more than 50 dwelling units per building, limited to three stories in height or four stories if served by an elevator, with such units intended either for sale or rent. 3. Large multifamily buildings shall mean multifamily buildings with one or more elevators having four stories containing more than 50 dwelling units per building, or five or more stories regardless of the number of units, with such units intended either for sale or rent Graphic will be updated Merged single-family detached and garden court single-family dwellings New New definition for new use This current definition may be revised following work on dimensional and development standards in Module 2. Aurora, CO Page 393

166 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Residential Uses Dwelling, Two-Family (Duplex) A single building on a single lot, designed for occupancy by two separate dwelling units in a sideby-side or stacked configuration, and not attached to any other buildings other than those accessory to the dwellings. This definition also includes a dwelling unit attached by a party wall to only one other dwelling unit in a side-by-side configuration, with each unit located on its own lot. Manufactured Housing 1507 This term has the same definition as the term mobile home in Sec Manufactured Housing Lot 1508 Manufactured housing lot means a plot of ground within a manufactured housing park designed for the accommodation of one single-family detached manufactured housing unit together with its accessory uses. Manufactured Housing Park This term has the same definition shown in Sec Group Living 1509 This land use category (containing individual land uses) is characterized by residential occupancy of a structure by a group of people who do not meet the definition of Household Living. Tenancy is arranged on a monthly or longer basis, and the size of the group may be larger than a family. Generally, Group Living structures have a common eating area for residents. The residents may receive care, training, or treatment, and caregivers may or may not also reside at the site. Accessory uses commonly include recreational facilities and vehicle parking for occupants and staff. Specific use types include, but are not limited to: Assisted Living Facility A building or group of buildings specifically designed for persons occupying private residential quarters with full bathroom facilities and at least partial kitchen facilities. Residents in such a facility need some assistance in performing one or more of the following daily functions: the preparation of some or all meals, bathing, housekeeping and laundry, the administration of medication, periodic medical attention, and transportation. The term "assisted living facility" shall also include "life care facilities" but shall not include facilities designed exclusively for the care of persons needing full-time nursing care, Alzheimer patients, or bed-ridden patients. Continuing Care Retirement A community for care of the elderly. The community shall have common facilities including at a minimum licensed intermediate and skilled nursing facilities adequate to meet the needs of the residents, and other services that are not accessory to other permitted uses. Dormitory, Fraternity, or Sorority House 1510 A building devoted exclusively to living facilities in which each person residing in each living unit shall be a duly registered student in any accredited school, college or university, the spouse of such student, or a management employee. Group Home Subject to licensing requirements of the state if applicable, a group home includes the following: 1. A dwelling where persons are living, together with staff, as a single housekeeping unit providing care, supervision, and treatment for the exclusive use of citizens protected by the provisions of the federal Fair Housing Act Amendments of 1988, as defined in that Act and interpreted by the courts, or by any similar legislation of the State of Colorado, including but 1507 Replaces current definitions with those in extensive City regulations of this use in another Chapter New New definition for use category New. Aurora, CO Page 394

167 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Public, Institutional, Religious, and Civic Uses not limited to facilities providing housing for handicapped, mentally ill, or developmentally disabled persons An owner-occupied or nonprofit residential dwelling for the exclusive use of two or not more than eight persons 60 years of age or older, who, together with staff, live as a single housekeeping unit. Owner-occupied or nonprofit group homes for persons 60 years of age or older provide room and board to adults who are not related to the owner and who elect protective oversight, personal services and social care but do not require 24-hour medical or nursing care. 3. A domestic violence shelter means a public or private building or structure housing residents for the purpose of the rehabilitation or special care for victims of domestic violence or emotional or mental abuse. The term includes battered women's shelter Homeless Shelter 1513 An establishment providing overnight shelter to homeless persons or families, and that may also provide meals or other supportive services to overnight residents. Nursing Home An establishment licensed by the State of Colorado, 1514 that maintains and operates continuous day and night facilities providing room and board, personal services and skilled nursing care, including Alzheimer's facilities, excluding, however, hospitals and drug or alcohol treatment centers. Rooming House A residential building where meals or lodging are provided for compensation for two or more persons, not members of the family. The term includes a guesthouse or a lodging house, but not a motel or hotel PUBLIC, INSTITUTIONAL, RELIGIOUS, AND CIVIC USES Public, Institutional, Religious, and Civic Uses A land use category (containing individual land uses) that includes buildings, structures, or facilities owned, operated, or occupied by a governmental entity or nonprofit organization to provide a service to the public, or an institution (which may be for profit or not-for-profit) providing specialized services related to health care or services for the dead. Includes public, private, and parochial institutions at the primary, elementary, middle, high school, or post-secondary level, or trade or business schools that provide educational instruction to students, primary health services and medical or surgical care to persons suffering from illness, disease, injury, or other physical or mental conditions. Accessory uses include play areas, cafeterias, recreational and sport facilities, auditoriums, and before- or after-school day care, medical laboratories, outpatient, or training facilities, and parking, or other amenities primarily for the use of employees in the institution or building Adult or Child Day Care Center 1516 A facility, by whatever name known, that is maintained for the whole or part of a day for the care of children under the age of 16 years, or for elderly adults. The facility shall be operated with or without compensation for such care, and with or without stated educational purposes, and shall hold a valid state license for the operating of an adult or child day care center, that provide day care services, including monitoring of clients, social and recreational services, food and nourishment, and health support services. The term shall include facilities commonly known as "day care centers," "day nurseries," "nursery schools," "kindergartens," "preschools," "play groups," "day camps," "summer camps," "centers for 1511 Text on residents revised from developmentally disabled, handicapped, or mentally ill persons, because the federal Fair Housing Act Amendments require broader coverage Existing definition for domestic violence shelter, added to group homes definition New Reference to specific department removed, because that can change over time New definition for use category Combines definitions for adult day care center and child care center. Aurora, CO Page 395

168 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Public, Institutional, Religious, and Civic Uses mentally retarded children," adult care, or adult day care center. It shall include those facilities that give a maximum of ten-hour care for dependent and neglected children. It shall include those facilities for children under the age of six years, with stated educational purposes, operated in conjunction with a public, private, or parochial college or a private or parochial school. The term shall not apply to a kindergarten maintained in connection with a public, private, or parochial elementary school system of at least six grades. Child care centers are divided into two distinct use groups: 1. An adult or child day care facility, large, by whatever name known, includes facilities that are maintained for the whole or part of a day for the care of 13 or more children under the age of 16 years, or not more than 13 elderly adults, who are not related to the owner, operator or manager of the facility. 2. An adult or child day care facility, small, by whatever name known, includes facilities that are maintained for the whole or part of a day for the care of from seven to 12 children under the age of 16 years, or seven to 12 elderly adults, who are not related to the owner, operator or manager of the facility. Cemetery Property used for the interring of dead humans or animals. Civic or Cultural Facility Civic or cultural facilities include museums, art galleries, botanical or zoological gardens, and libraries, and similar establishments that document and present natural, historic, scientific, or cultural interests; as well as facilities for the performance or presentation of theater arts, dance, drama, and similar cultural pursuits to the general public. This use does not include sexually-oriented businesses. Club, Lodge, and Service Organization Affiliations with a selective membership whose members have voting control over significant aspects of the group's operations, and that do not charge daily or weekly dues or entry fees, or admit persons into the premises based upon application fees. Crematorium 1517 A facility containing furnaces for the reduction of dead bodies to ashes by fire. Higher Education Institution 1518 Any college, university, post-secondary or higher educational facility beyond high school without an oncampus housing facility that meets applicable State requirements to award degrees and primarily teaches usable skills that prepare students for employment in a profession or trade. Hospital 1519 An institution providing health services, primarily for in patients and medical or surgical care of the sick or injured, including related facilities such as laboratories, out-patient facilities, training facilities, central service facilities, and staff offices. Institutional Use A community or civic use devoted to the promotion of a particular cause or program, especially one of a public, educational, or religious character, such as schools, recreation centers, and churches. Meeting, Banquet, and Conference Facility A facility with or without food preparation equipment, used for meetings, conferences, catered meals, wedding receptions, and other social functions; and available on a rental basis to the general public. Mortuary 1520 An establishment for the preparation of the deceased for burial and the display of the deceased and rituals connected with, and conducted before burial or cremation. This definition includes columbaria and 1517 New New New New. Aurora, CO Page 396

169 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Agricultural and Animal-Related Uses may include a facility for the permanent storage of cremated remains of the dead. This definition shall not include freestanding crematoria facility. Park and Open Space 1521 An outdoor, unenclosed area, located on the ground, designed and accessible for outdoor living, recreation, and pedestrian access or landscaping, but not including roads, parking areas, driveways, or other areas intended for vehicular travel. Includes both active and passive recreation. Place of Worship A building, together with its accessory buildings and uses, that is primarily used as a place where persons regularly assemble for religious worship. This term includes uses such as synagogues, churches, temples, or mosques. Worship services and related religious activities in buildings primarily used for residential purposes that have not undergone any interior or exterior structural modification to accommodate group assembly, and with no external evidence that advertises the activity, shall not be considered a place of worship. School, Elementary or Secondary 1522 An accredited school under the sponsorship of a public, private, or religious agency, having a curriculum generally equivalent to public elementary or secondary schools, not including commercial schools AGRICULTURAL AND ANIMAL-RELATED USES 1523 Agricultural and Animal-related Uses A land use category (containing individual land uses) that includes the use of land for purposes including farming, dairying, pasturage, horticulture, animal and poultry husbandry, and the necessary accessory uses for treating or storing of farm products and parking of equipment. Specific use types include, but are not limited to: Agriculture The production, keeping, or maintenance, for sale, lease or personal use, of plants and animals useful to persons, on a site larger than five acres in size, including the storage of agricultural products produced off the premises. This use does not include a tract of land and related structures, pens, or corrals, in which more than 50 cattle, horses, sheep, goats, or swine are maintained in close quarters for the purpose of fattening such livestock for final shipment to market Horse Stable 1525 A commercial facility for the keeping and boarding of horses. Kennel Any structure or premises used for boarding or breeding of any animal for compensation or for profit. Plant and Tree Nursery and Greenhouse 1526 Any land or structure used primarily to raise trees, shrubs, flowers, and other plants for sale or for transplanting. Riding Academy 1527 An establishment or area for keeping horses or other domestic animals other than for the property owner s personal use, for compensation, hire, boarding, riding or show Revised to simplify New. Current definition for private school was not carried forward New definition for use category Size provision added to distinguish from urban agriculture. Exclusion of feedlot text added New New New. Aurora, CO Page 397

170 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Commercial and Industrial Uses Urban Agriculture 1528 The use of a parcel of land five acres or smaller in size for the cultivation of food and/or horticultural crops, composting, aquaponics, aquaculture and/or hydroponics. Such use may include the production of food products from food grown on the premises and accessory keeping of animals or bees subject to city regulations. Veterinary Clinic and Hospital 1529 Any establishment maintained and operated by a licensed veterinarian for surgery, diagnosis and treatment of diseases and injuries of animals. All facilities for housing animals shall be only for use incidental to medical treatment COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL USES Aboveground Bulk Storage of Flammable Gasses 1530 The storage of commercial and industrial gasses in aboveground containers for subsequent resale to distributors or retail dealers or outlets. This definition shall not include the dispensing of fuel to individual retail customers. Aircraft Hangar and Aircraft Maintenance Facility 1531 Facilities intended for maintenance, loading, unloading, storage, and fueling of aircraft. Airport 1532 A landing area, runway, or other facility designed, used, or intended to be used for the landing or taking off of aircraft, including all necessary taxiways, aircraft storage and tie-down areas, hangars, and other necessary buildings and open spaces. Art Studio or Workshop 1533 A use with an interior building area for artist galleries, studios, and residences used for the creation, display, and associated sale of various artistic mediums and creative arts. Automobile and Light Truck Sales and Rental 1534 Selling, leasing, renting, brokering, or auctioning vehicles seven feet or less in height, including automobiles, sport utility vehicles, light trucks and van, and motorcycles, but excluding trailers. Bank, Savings, and Financial Office 1535 An establishment that provides retail banking, mortgage lending, and financial services to individuals and businesses, and including check-cashing facilities. Accessory uses may include automatic teller machines and administrative offices. Bar and Tavern 1536 An establishment engaged in the preparation and retail sale of alcoholic beverages for consumption on the premises that does not also serve meals. This use also includes hookah bars in which patrons consume flavored tobacco from a stemmed instrument designed for vaporizing tobacco. Bed and Breakfast An owner occupied, single-family detached home having from one to not more than five guestrooms New Combines definitions for animal clinic and animal hospital. Requirement for indoor operations and permits for outdoor operations now contained in use-specific standards. Definition for small animal clinic not carried forward New. Storage of liquids deleted from definition and now included in Bulk Commodity Storage Facility use New New Current definition for artspace Current definition for automobile and light truck sales, rental, servicing, or fuel dispensing revised specifically for sales and rental New Definition revised to include hookah bars. Aurora, CO Page 398

171 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Commercial and Industrial Uses Bio-Medical Waste Treatment Facility 1537 A facility for the processing, storage, or disposal of bio-medical waste, including but not limited to processes that involve ozone treatment, that complies with all applicable federal, state, and local regulations. Brewery 1538 Any establishment where malt liquors or fermented malt beverages are manufactured and production exceeds 60,000 barrels of malt liquor per year. Brewpub An establishment that manufactures not more than 60,000 barrels of malt liquor or fermented malt beverage each calendar year, and that may include retail sales in an on-premises licensed facility. Sometimes referred to as a microbrewery Bulk Commodity Storage Facility 1540 An establishment engaged in the storage of oils, lubricants, liquids, grains, mineral products or other commodities not listed separately as specific types of warehousing, wholesaling, or storage. This use includes a grain elevator and facilities or areas for the temporary storage of commodities listed above for transfer to trucks, train cars, or other forms of transportation. Catering Service 1541 An establishment whose principal business is to prepare food on-site, then to transport and serve the food off-site. This use includes a commercial kitchen. No business consumption of food or beverages is permitted on the premises. Distillery 1542 A facility where distilling, typically of alcoholic liquors, is done. Electric Power Generator Station 1543 A facility or area that generates electricity from mechanical power produced by the firing of fossil fuels, or that produces heat or steam for space heating and other similar uses. Equipment Rental and Repair 1544 The rental and repair of supplies and equipment primarily for intended for use by homeowners, gardening, construction, landscaping, or industrial contractors, including, but not limited to hoists, lifts, forklifts, and commercial capacity generators and compressors, but not including car or truck rentals. Extended Stay Lodging A hotel or motel in which more than 10 percent of the guests stay for a period of more than 30 days. Food, Beverage and Lodging 1545 A land use category (containing individual land uses) that includes establishments serving prepared food or beverages for consumption on or off the premises or providing lodging, meals, and the like to transient visitors for a defined period. Accessory uses may include food preparation areas, offices, and parking. Grain and Oil Seed Milling 1546 An establishment used for the processing and storage of grains (cereal, feed, etc.) and associated uses, including the receipt and shipment of grain by truck or rail New Revised to add or fermented malt beverages to match state liquor licensing definition Merges current definitions of brewpub and microbrewery. Adds or fermented malt beverages to match state law New New New New, 1544 New New definition for use category New. Aurora, CO Page 399

172 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Commercial and Industrial Uses Heavy Manufacturing 1547 Large-scale industrial operations and processes including heavy equipment and construction yards. This use includes uses previously listed as animal food manufacturing; animal products; animal products manufacturing; basic chemical manufacturing; bio-fuels and ethanol manufacturing; carbon graphite manufacturing; cement and concrete products manufacturing; clay products and refractory manufacturing; grain and oil seed milling; other non-metallic mineral products; paint, coating and adhesive manufacturing; paint, coat and adhesive manufacturing; petroleum and coal products; petroleum and coal products manufacturing; primary metal manufacturing; pulp, paper and paperboard mills; sawmills and wood preservation; sugar; sugar manufacturing; and leather and hide tanning and finishing. This use also includes locomotive and rail car repair, the manufacturing of products from raw minerals, the processing or treatment of raw minerals, and facilities involved in manufacturing, processing or assembly that requires delivery of goods or shipping of products by railcar or having greater environmental effects and traffic impacts than activities classified as manufacturing or restricted light industrial uses. Home Building Supplies 1548 An establishment for the sale of materials and hardware customarily used in the construction of buildings and other structures, that includes facilities for storage. Hotel and Motel 1549 A building designed for short-term occupancy, in which no more than 10 percent of the guests reside for a period of more than 30 days. Accessory uses may include restaurants, meeting rooms, and motor vehicle rental. Indoor Recreation and Entertainment 1550 Indoor facilities for entertainment, sports, and recreational activities such as health clubs, bowling, skating, swimming, tennis, teen clubs, health and fitness centers, gyms, and similar indoor activities. Indoor Shooting Range 1551 An indoor facility used for firearm target practice, competitions, or similar uses, including but not limited to archery, skeet, trap, paintball, and similar shooting activities. Industrial 1552 A land use category (including individual land uses) including establishments engaged in the transformation of materials by hand, mechanical or chemical means or substances into new products including the assembling of component parts, the manufacturing of products, and the blending of materials such as lubricating oils, plastics, resins or liquors, as well as establishments that are engaged in the repair or servicing of agricultural, industrial, business, or consumer machinery, equipment, products, or by-products. Contractors and similar uses perform services off-site. Few customers come to the site. Accessory activities may include sales, offices, parking, and storage. Intermodal Cargo Transfer Yard 1553 The site at which freight is transferred between railroad flat cars and trucks, typically involving containers or trailers. Light Manufacturing 1554 Uses engaged in the manufacture, processing, fabrication, treatment, assembly, packaging, incidental storage, sales and distribution of finished products or parts, predominately from previously prepared materials such as cloth, plastic, metal, paper, leather, precious or semiprecious stones, including without limitation the manufacture of electronic instruments or pharmaceuticals, the preparation of food products blueprinting and commercial printing services (but not consumer photocopying and shipping stores), and 1547 Revised to clarify characteristics and included uses New Combined current definitions for hotel; hotel, full service; and motel. Accessory uses added Current indoor recreation definition, revised to include entertainment and to exclude indoor shooting range New New definition for use category New Definition revised to include current restricted light manufacturing uses and incorporate former blueprinting use. Aurora, CO Page 400

173 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Commercial and Industrial Uses other activities that do not create nuisances to surrounding properties and do not require delivery or shipping by railroad cars. This use does not include the manufacturing of products from raw minerals or the processing or treatment of raw minerals or any manufacturing involving hazardous materials. Liquor Store 1555 A type of retail sales use that includes a business licensed by the state for the retail sale of alcoholic beverages in original packages for consumption off the premises, in which those sales are the primary goods being sold and generate the majority of the revenue generated by the business. The accessory sales of food or other items shall not result in the business being a general retail sales business if the above conditions are met. Locomotive and Railcar Yard and Repair Facility, 1556 An area and related facilities connected with the fueling, repair switching, assembly or disassembly of trains, including without limitation passenger or freight terminals, operations and maintenance shacks, train sheds, and classification yards. Medical and Dental Clinic A health care facility where patients are admitted for examination and treatment on an outpatient basis by one or more physicians, dentists, other medical personnel, psychologists, or social workers, and where patients are not usually lodged overnight. Mining The development or extraction of mineral deposits, including but not limited to limestone, coal, sand, rock, clay, dirt, gravel, and other materials, and quarry aggregate from their natural occurrences on affected land. The term includes but is not limited to open pit mining and surface operations, strip mining, quarrying, dredging, and the disposal of refuse from those activities. Motor Freight Terminal 1557 An establishment engaged primarily in the fueling, servicing, repair or parking of tractor trucks and similar heavy commercial vehicles, including the sale of accessories and equipment for such vehicles. A motor freight terminal may also include overnight accommodations, showers, and restaurant facilities primarily for the use of truck crews. Motor Vehicle Body Shop and Painting 1558 An establishment in which automobiles, light trucks, or other motor vehicles that operate on roadways are painted, or in which damage to the bodies and frames of such vehicles are repaired. Accessory uses may include motor vehicle rental. Motor Vehicle Fuel Dispensing Station 1559 Buildings or premises or portions of buildings or premises used for the retail sale or accessory fueling of gasoline or other motor vehicle fuels, motor oils, and other accessory products and may include vehicle washing facilities as an accessory use. When a primary use of land, accessory use may include convenience food and beverage sales. Motor Vehicle Indoor Showroom or Broker A business or broker selling or leasing new or used automobiles, sport utility vehicles, light trucks and vans, recreational vehicles, and motorcycles in which all vehicles are displayed and offered for sale or lease in a completely enclosed, indoor showroom. On-site vehicle repair, detailing, service, and/or body work are not permissible accessory uses. Outdoor storage of vehicles is not permitted New New New New definition for existing use Revised to cover both primary and accessory uses Prohibition of overhead garage doors was removed, prohibition on detailing added. Aurora, CO Page 401

174 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Commercial and Industrial Uses Motor Vehicle Repair and Service 1561 Buildings or premises or portions thereof used for the purpose of maintenance repairing, or painting of motor vehicles. Repair includes the fixing, refurbishing, or replacement of any part of a motor vehicle, including paint and body work. This use does not include motor vehicle salvage, wrecking, or dismantling or a motor vehicle body shop and painting facility. Motor Vehicle Towing, Salvage, and Dismantling An establishment used for the storage, collection, processing, purchase, sale, or disposal of motor vehicles and motor vehicle parts and/or a commercial establishment engaged in towing of vehicles or equipment from one location to another Motor Vehicle Wash Any building or premises or portions of the building or premises used for washing motor vehicles, including the use of automatic or semiautomatic application of cleaner, brushes, rinse water, and heat for drying. This use does not include motor vehicle fueling as an accessory use. Nightclub A restaurant, tavern or bar that also includes at least one of the following: live music, live entertainment, or a dance floor of 220 square feet or more. Nightclub does not include meeting, banquet, and conference facilities as defined in this Section. Offices 1563 Office uses provide executive, management, administrative, or professional services, but not involving the sale of merchandise except as incidental to a permitted use. Typical examples include government, real estate, insurance, property management, investment, employment, travel, advertising, law, architecture, design, engineering, accounting, call centers, medical, dental, and similar offices. Accessory uses may include cafeterias, health facilities, parking, or other amenities primarily for the use of employees in the firm or building. Office Showroom A land use that combines at least two of the following: office, display and showroom, retail and storage functions where the storage function of the use is accessory to the primary operation. This use does not include uses that are primarily warehousing or distribution in function or that require substantial off-street loading Office, Flex 1565 A use that combines office and storage for goods, wares, and merchandise, including distribution functions that may require off-street loading. This use also includes buildings that could be used for either office space or other light industrial or commercial uses. Oil and Gas Facilities As used in the context of oil and gas regulations in Section XXX, the following terms have the following meanings 1. Accessory equipment means any equipment that is integral to the production and operation of an oil or gas well, including but not limited to tanks, treaters, separators, and production pits. 2. Act means the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Act, C.R.S et seq., as amended. 3. Building unit shall have the same meaning as set forth in the COGCC regulations Current definition for motor vehicle repair service, fueling, sales, rental - revised to exclude fueling, washing, sales, and rental, with exclusion of salvage and wrecking clarified Second portion of definition is new New Revised to eliminate conditions based on percentage of site occupancy Revised current definition of office-warehouse. Aurora, CO Page 402

175 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Commercial and Industrial Uses 4. Berm means an earthen barrier of compacted soils preventing the passage of liquid materials or providing screening from adjacent uses as may be specified in an applicable development standard. 5. COGCC means the Colorado Oil and Gas Conservation Commission. 6. COGCC regulations means the rules and regulations promulgated by the COGCC and codified at 2 C.C.R. Title 404, as amended. 7. Designated agent means the designated representative of any producer, operator, transporter, refiner, or gasoline or other extraction plant operator or owner. 8. Distance from a well site to a platted residential subdivision, platted lot line containing either a building unit or high density building unit means the distance from the edge of the well pad (graveled area not including access road) to the nearest platted residential lot line, or a platted lot line that contains a building unit or a high density building unit. 9. Gas means all natural gases and all hydrocarbons not defined in this Section as oil. 10. High Occupancy Building Unit shall have the same meaning as set forth in the COGCC regulations. 11. Injection well means any hole drilled into the earth into which fluids are injected for purposes of secondary recovery, storage, or disposal pursuant to authorizations granted by the COGCC. 12. Oil means crude petroleum oil and any other hydrocarbons, regardless of gravities, that are produced at the well in liquid form by ordinary production methods, and that are not the result of condensation of gas before or after it leaves the reservoir. 13. Oil and gas means oil or gas or both oil and gas. 14. Oil and gas well means a hole drilled into the earth for the purpose of exploring for or extracting oil, gas, or other hydrocarbon substances. 15. Oil and gas facility shall mean equipment or improvements used or installed at an oil and gas location for the exploration, production, withdrawal, gathering, treatment, or processing of oil or natural gas. 16. Operating plan means a general description of an oil or gas well facility identifying purpose, use, typical staffing pattern, seasonal or periodic considerations, routine hours of operation, source of services and infrastructure, and any other information related to regular functioning of that facility. 17. Operator means the person designated as operator and named in COGCC form 2 or a subsequently filed COGCC form Owner means any person with a working interest ownership in the oil and gas or leasehold interest therein. 19. Platted residential subdivision means a subdivision that has been approved and recorded and is located in a zone that allows residential uses. 20. Production pits means those pits used for initial settling, temporary storage, or disposal of produced water by permeation or evaporation after drilling and initial completion of the well. 21. Production site means that surface area immediately surrounding proposed or existing production pits, or other accessory equipment necessary for oil and gas production activities, exclusive of transmission and gathering pipelines. 22. Tank means any container used in conjunction with the production or storage of petroleum and hydrocarbon substances, stored at or near atmospheric pressure. 23. Treatment facilities means any plant, equipment, or other works used for the purpose of treating, separating, or stabilizing any substance produced from a well. 24. Twinning means the drilling of a well adjacent to or near an existing well bore when the existing well cannot be drilled to the objective depth or produced due to an engineering problem such as collapsed casing or formation damage. 25. Well means an oil and gas well or an injection well. Aurora, CO Page 403

176 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Commercial and Industrial Uses 26. Well site means that surface area of a proposed or existing well or wells and its pumping systems. Other Motor Vehicle, Trailer, Boat, or Manufactured Home Sales or Rental A business that displays on-site any recreational vehicle, boat, house trailer, modular structure, or manufactured home, or any motor vehicle other than an automobile or light truck, for the purpose of sales, rental, brokering or auction. Outdoor Recreation and Entertainment 1566 Outdoor facilities for outdoor concerts, racetracks, amusement parks, miniature golf, drive-in theaters, gocart tracks, and other similar outdoor activities. Also includes facilities for outdoor sports such as golf courses, driving ranges, swimming pools, tennis and basketball courts, sports fields, and playgrounds. Outdoor Storage as a Principle Use The placement or deposit of any equipment, furniture, machine, material, merchandise, or supplies in an outside location or outside an enclosed structure, except objects that are customarily placed outside and clearly incidental and commonly associated with the permitted use. Pari-Mutuel Wagering Facility A facility operated pursuant to the provisions of the Colorado Limited Gaming Act of 1991, as amended, at which pari-mutuel wagers are placed on simulcast horse and greyhound races. Parking Garage An aboveground and/or belowground structure, or a part of a primary structure, designed for parking automobiles and light trucks and van, in which at least one level of parking is located above or below another level of parking in the same structure. This use does not include parking and storage facilities for recreational vehicles, boats, and trucks seven feet in height or greater. Parking Lot 1567 An at-grade parking area for automobiles and light trucks and vans that is not part of an aboveground or underground parking structure or included in a primary structure. This use does not include parking and storage facilities for recreational vehicles, boats, and trucks seven feet in height or greater. Pawnbroker An establishment that engages, in whole or in part, in the business of loaning money on the security of pledges of personal property, or deposits or conditional sales of personal property, or the purchase or sale of personal property. Personal Service Establishments primarily engaged in providing services involving the care of a person or his or her personal goods or apparel. Personal services usually includes but is not limited to: laundry, including cleaning and pressing service, diaper service, beauty shops, barbershops, shoe repair, personal copying/shipping services, daytime non-medical pet care, and similar uses. 1. Personal Service, Large, is a facility with more than 15,000 square feet of gross floor area. 2. Personal Service, Small, is a facility with up to 15,000 square feet of gross floor area. Private Golf Course, Tennis Club, and Country Club 1568 An establishment typically associated with a golf course or tennis facilities that is intended as a place of social and recreational gatherings for members of a private club Combines current definitions for outdoor recreation and outdoor entertainment Parking facility split into new and separate Parking Lot and Parking Garage for better control. References to usability by the general public and non-accessory nature of the use were deleted New. Aurora, CO Page 404

177 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Commercial and Industrial Uses Railroad Track 1569 An area or facility connected with the operation of individual railroad tracks, including without limitation main (through) tracks, spur tracks, and areas associated with sidings, siding and switching equipment, crossing safety arms, and contiguous maintenance, switching, or storage sheds. Recreation and Entertainment 1570 A land use category (containing individual land uses) that includes establishment providing recreation or entertainment activities to the general public or to their members. Accessory uses may include concessions, snack bars, parking, administrative offices, and maintenance facilities. Recreational Vehicle Park 1571 An outdoor facility designed for overnight accommodation of human beings in motorized vehicles, rustic cabins and shelters, or trailers for recreation, education, naturalist, or vacation purposes. Office, retail and other commercial uses commonly established in such facilities and related parking structures shall be allowed as accessory appurtenances. Recycling Collection Facility The term recycling and collection facility includes the following: 1. Mobile recycle unit means an automobile, truck, trailer, or van, licensed by the department of motor vehicles, that is used for the collection of recyclable materials. A mobile recycling unit shall also mean the bins, boxes, or containers transported by trucks, vans, or trailers and used for the collection of recyclable materials. 2. Recycling collection facility means a facility for the collection of recyclable materials, including paper, glass, plastic, cloth, ferrous and nonferrous metals, or other items and quantities normally recycled by households or small businesses; excluding, however, commercial and industrial refuse, yard waste, white goods, and hazardous materials. Recycling collection facilities include mobile recycling units, reverse vending machines, and small recycling collection facilities. 3. Recycling collection facility, small means a mobile recycling unit, reverse vending machine or a grouping of reverse vending machines occupying not more than 120 square feet each. They include kiosk-type units that may include permanent structures occupying not more than 120 square feet each and unattended containers placed for the donation of recyclable materials occupying not more than 120 square feet each. 4. Reverse vending machine means an automated mechanical device that accepts at least one or more types of empty beverage containers, including but not limited to aluminum cans, glass or plastic bottles, and that issues a cash refund or a redeemable credit, provided that the entire process is enclosed within the machine. A reverse vending machine may be designed to accept more than one container at a time, paying by weight instead of by container. Research and Development 1572 A facility including research, synthesis, analysis, development and testing laboratories, including the fabrication, assembly, mixing and preparation of equipment and components incident or convenient or necessary to the conduct of such activities. Restaurant An establishment where meals and beverages are prepared, served, and consumed, either on premises (inside or outside) taken out, or delivered, including full-service and limited service restaurants, cafeterias, snack, and nonalcoholic beverage bars. A restaurant may include the sale of alcoholic beverages, an accessory dance floor less than 220 square feet, or a brewpub, subject to local licensing requirements for alcoholic beverages. Drive-in or drive-through facilities are only permitted if shown as an Accessory Use 1569 New New definition for use category New definition. Definition of campground not carried forward New. Aurora, CO Page 405

178 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Commercial and Industrial Uses in the zone district where the property is located in Table (Permitted Use Table) and may require a Conditional Use Permit. Retail Marijuana Cultivation Facility An entity licensed to cultivate, prepare, and package retail marijuana and to sell retail marijuana to retail marijuana stores, to retail marijuana product manufacturing facilities, and to other retail marijuana cultivation facilities, but not to consumers. Retail Marijuana Establishment A retail marijuana cultivation facility, a retail marijuana testing facility, a retail marijuana product manufacturing facility, or a retail marijuana store. Retail Marijuana Product Manufacturing Facility An entity licensed to purchase retail marijuana, to manufacture, prepare, and package retail marijuana or retail marijuana products, and to sell retail marijuana or retail marijuana products to other retail marijuana product manufacturing facilities and to retail stores, but not to consumers. Retail Marijuana Testing Facility An entity licensed to analyze and certify the safety and potency of marijuana. Retail Marijuana Store An entity licensed to purchase retail marijuana from retail cultivation facilities and retail marijuana and retail marijuana products from retail marijuana product manufacturing facilities and to sell retail marijuana and retail marijuana products to consumers. Retail Sales Establishments engaged in selling goods or merchandise to the general public for personal or household consumption and rendering services incidental to the sale of such goods. This use does not include any form of retail sales or other use listed separately in the Permitted Use Table. 1. Retail Sales, Large, is a facility with more than 15,000 square feet of gross floor area. 2. Retail Sales, Small, is a facility with up to 15,000 square feet of gross floor area. Retail Sales and Personal Service 1573 A land use category (containing individual land uses) including establishments that sell products directly to the final consumer for whatever purpose but not specifically or exclusively for the purpose of resale, as well as establishments that provide services directly to the final consumer for the conduct or improvement of the consumer s home or business or personal life. Sale at Wholesale 1574 A facility for the sales and distribution of goods and parts intended either for resale at retail or as components in the manufacture or assembly of other retail goods; and where such sales are not intended for the general public. Does not include sales or storage of live animals, radioactive, infectious or hazardous waste, or commercial explosives. Self-Storage Facility A structure containing separate storage spaces of varying sizes leased or rented as individual spaces that may also offer outdoor storage for recreational vehicles, boats, and similar vehicles. Sewage Disposal Plant 1575 A plant for the primary, secondary, tertiary treatment of sewage. Sexually-Oriented Business An establishment consisting of, including, or having the characteristics of any or all of the following: 1573 New definition for use category The exclusions were carried forward from Table 10.5, Section New. Aurora, CO Page 406

179 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Commercial and Industrial Uses 1. Adult Bookstore means an establishment having a substantial or significant portion of its stock-intrade books, magazines, publications, tapes, or films that are distinguished or characterized by their emphasis on matter depicting, describing, or relating to sexual activities or anatomical genital areas. 2. Adult Cabaret means (a) An establishment devoted to adult entertainment, either with or without a liquor license, presenting material distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on matter depicting, describing, or relating to sexual activities or anatomical genital areas; (b) a cabaret that features topless dancers, go-go dancers, strippers, male or female impersonators, or similar entertainers for observation by patrons. 3. Adult Mini Motion Picture Theater means an enclosed building with a capacity for less than 50 persons used for presenting material distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on matter depicting, describing, or relating to sexual activities or anatomical genital areas. 4. Adult Motion Picture Theater means an enclosed building with a capacity for 50 or more persons used for presenting material distinguished or characterized by an emphasis on matter depicting, describing, or relating to sexual activities or anatomical genital areas. An establishment that meets the definition of a sexually-oriented business shall not be interpreted to be included in any other listed use in this UDO Solar Collector A device or combination of devices, structure, or part of a device or structure that transforms direct solar energy into thermal, chemical, or electrical energy. Solid Waste Transfer Facility A facility at which non-hazardous refuse awaiting transportation to a disposal site is transferred from one type of collection vehicle to another. Refuse may be sorted and repackaged at a transfer station. Storage, Distribution, and Wholesaling 1577 A land use category (that includes individual land uses) that includes establishments engaged in the storage or movement of goods for themselves or other firms. Goods are generally delivered to other firms or the final consumer, except for some will-call pickups. There is little on-site sales activity with the customer present. Uses may include carting, hauling or storage yards and contractor s shops, largescale distribution, and warehousing. Accessory uses may include offices, truck fleet parking, and maintenance areas. Storage, Distribution, and Warehousing 1578 The storage of goods, vehicles, or materials in a warehouse, structure, or hangar, and/or the use of that facility for the intake of goods and merchandise, individually or in bulk, the short-term holding or storage of those goods or merchandise, and/or the breaking up into lots or parcels and subsequent shipment offsite of such goods and merchandise. This use includes but is not limited to commercial warehouses and aircraft hangars. Teen Club A type of indoor recreation and entertainment that is a building, a part of a building, a room or a premises in which entertainment, either live or recorded, vocal or instrumental, is provided, with or without dancing by customers or patrons, for persons between the ages of 13 years and 19 years. A teen club does not include uses operated by public agencies or charitable organizations such as church youth centers, the boys' and girls' club, or youth community centers provided for recreation or congregation. Telecom Facility, Freestanding 1579 An unmanned facility consisting of a stand-alone support structure antennas, equipment, and equipment storage shelter used for the reception, switching, and/or transmission of wireless telecommunications 1576 Final sentence is new New definition for use category New Two Telecom Facility definitions from , retitled from CMRS. Aurora, CO Page 407

180 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Commercial and Industrial Uses including, but not limited to paging, enhanced specialized mobile radio, personal communication services, cellular telephone, and similar technologies. Telecom Facility, Freestanding Stealth Freestanding Telecom Facilities that have been designed to blend in with the adjacent natural environment or man-made setting, thus allowing the presence of antennae, antennae arrays, towers and equipment storage or support facilities to be reasonably camouflaged or concealed by man-made trees, clock towers, bell steeples, light poles, flag poles, signs, or artistic or architectural structures integrated into the existing or planned land use pattern. Theater 1580 A building designed and/or used primarily for the commercial exhibition of motion pictures to the general public or used for performance of plays, acts, dramas by actors and/or actresses. Transit Facility 1581 Mass transit stations, including bus or rail terminals/stations or depots, transfer points, and park 'n ride facilities without vehicle repair or storage. This use also includes commercial transit facilities engaged in providing bus passenger transportation over regular routes and on regular schedules, principally outside a single metropolitan area and its adjacent non-urban areas. The term does not apply to shuttle services providing round trip service within 50 miles of the metropolitan area, including but not limited to casino shuttle services. This use does not include any transit related facilities located in the public right-of-way. A transit facility is not an accessory use to a travel agency, and motor bus repair is not an accessory use to a transit facility. Transportation and Freight 1582 A land use category (including individual land uses) that includes establishments engaged in the storage or movement of goods for themselves or other firms. Goods are generally delivered to other firms or the final consumer, except for some will call pickups. There is little on site sales activity with the customer present. Accessory uses may include offices, truck fleet parking, and maintenance areas. Utilities and Communication 1583 A land use category (including individual land uses) including facilities for the provision of infrastructure or communications services that support legally established uses and that need to be located in or near the area where the service is provided. This use includes communal water supply systems; water treatment and pumping stations; water pumping stations; water storage tanks; communal sewer systems; sewage treatment plant and pumping station; utility substation, transmission; utility substation, distribution; utility transmission lines, and telecommunications facilities. May be publicly or privately provided. Accessory uses may include control, monitoring, data, or transmission equipment. Utility, Major 1584 Generating plants, electrical substations, transmission lines operated at 69,000 volts or higher, switching buildings, refuse collection or disposal facilities, water reservoirs, water or wastewater treatment plants, gas compressors, gas mains, gas laterals, and similar scale facilities, as well as associated structures and facilities, that have relatively greater potential for adverse aesthetic and/or environmental impacts than minor utility facilities. Utility, Minor This use includes: 1. Aboveground electrical transmission lines or natural gas pipelines, flood control or drainage facilities, transportation or communications utilities, and similar facilities of public agencies or utilities; and 1580 New Combined current definitions for transit facilities and commercial transit facilities. Clarifies that this does not apply to facilities in the public right-of-way New definition for use category New definition for use category Revised since Module 1 to include transmission lines, gas facilities, and associated facilities. Aurora, CO Page 408

181 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses 2. Utility facilities that are necessary to support legally established uses and involve only minor structures such as electrical distribution lines, poles or cables, switch boxes, transformer boxes, cap banks, and underground water and sewer lines. Minor utility facilities generally do not have employees on-site, and the services may be publicly or privately provided. Wind Energy System, Large A large wind energy conversion system that has an output rating greater than 100 KW that converts wind energy into electrical power for the primary purpose of sale, resale, or off-site use. Vehicle-Related Operation 1585 A land use category (including individual land uses) that includes a broad range of uses for the maintenance, sale, or rental of motor vehicles and related equipment. Accessory uses may include incidental repair and storage and offices. Waste and Recycling 1586 A land use category (including individual land uses) that includes establishments that receive solid or liquid wastes from others for disposal on the site or for transfer to another location. The category includes uses that collect sanitary wastes, or uses that manufacture or produce goods or energy from the composting of organic material or processing of scrap or waste material. Waste and Recycling uses also include uses that recycle materials and receive hazardous wastes from others. Accessory uses may include offices, and repackaging and shipment of by-products. Winery An establishment that manufactures vinous liquors, and that may include a restaurant or a sample venue that sells the winery's products, including retail sales ACCESSORY AND TEMPORARY USES Aboveground Bulk Storage of Flammable Liquids and Gasses The storage of commercial and industrial liquids and gasses, including but not limited to petroleum products, in aboveground containers in support of, and accessory to, a permitted or approved conditional commercial or industrial primary use on the property. This definition shall not include the dispensing of fuel to individual retail customers. Adult or Child Day Care Home 1587 Adult day care licensed by the state and provided in a home for not more than six adults not related to the care provider. Adult day care shall not include overnight occupancy by the clients. Child day care home means a facility providing care and training for a child or children not related to the caretaker, for more than two full consecutive days on a regular weekly basis, and holding a valid state license for the operating of a child care center. A full day is seven or more hours. Ambulance Service Space owned or leased as quarters for a single ambulance crew, adjacent parking for the ambulance, and the pedestrian and electrical power connections necessary to support operations of a single ambulance. Automobile Fuel Dispensing Facility See definition in Section Commercial and Industrial Uses. Caretaker s Residence 1588 An accessory dwelling unit located on the premises of another principal use for the occupancy of a caretaker, security guard, or other person charged with oversight or protection of the principal use New definition for use category New definition for use category Combined definitions for adult day care home and child day care home New. Aurora, CO Page 409

182 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Christmas Tree Sales 1589 A temporary retail sales operation, generally conducted wholly outside, that offers for sale Christmas trees and related holiday items, such as wreaths and tree stands. Dwelling Unit, Accessory A single, subordinate living unit added to, created within, or detached from a single-family dwelling or from a non-residential use that provides basic requirements for independent living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation. Dwelling, Short-term Rental 1590 The rental of a dwelling for a period shorter than one month, more than one time in a12 month period, or the rental of part of a dwelling while the owner or leasehold tenant continues to occupy the dwelling, for a period shorter than one month, more than four times in each calendar year. Drive-Up or Drive-Through Facility Uses at which an occupant of a vehicle may make use of the service or business without leaving their vehicle. Electric Vehicle Charging Facility 1591 A facility in which electric vehicle charging services are made available to the public or to members for a fee, including structures, machinery, and equipment necessary and integral to support an electric vehicle, including battery charging stations, rapid charging stations, and battery exchange stations. Home Occupation 1592 A business, profession, occupation, or trade that is conducted within a residential dwelling unit for the economic gain or support of a resident of the dwelling and is incidental and secondary to the residential use of the lot and that does not adversely or perceptively affect the character of the lot or surrounding area. This use shall not include an animal hospital, barbershop, beauty parlor, day care, health clinic, hospital, kennel, or tearoom Micro-cell Facility A Telecom Facility used to provide increased capacity in high-call demand areas or to improve coverage in areas of weak coverage. Mining or Mineral Extraction as an Interim Use 1594 As an interim use, the extraction of minerals, sand, gravel, and ores, from their natural occurrences on affected land and distribution of extracted materials. Parking Facility, Accessory See definition in Section Commercial and Industrial Uses. Parking Lot, Temporary 1595 A temporary surface parking lot is the surface material/s and its infrastructure will be demolished for the purpose of clearing the site for other construction within a time frame approved by the city. Park and Open Space See definition in Section Public, Institutional, Religious, and Civic Uses. Radio and Television Antenna Tower 1596 A structure for the transmission of broadcasting of radio, TV or radar signals New New definition for new use. Covers both VRBO and AirBnB type of short-term rental Revised to clarify that this does not include the installation of vehicle charging equipment for home use Replaces current definition, which was moved to use-specific standards Staff: Please review the list for both over- and under-inclusiveness. Many cities would not exclude barber, beauty or tearoom, but would exclude gun sales, retail sales, and motor vehicle/equipment sales and repair New Relocated from Urban Street Frontage landscaping standards New. Aurora, CO Page 410

183 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.4. Use Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Recycling Collection Facility See definition in Section Repeater Facility A Telecom Facility that extends coverage of a cell. Roadside Sales Stand 1597 A temporary structure and/or use intended for the sales of products or wares, unenclosed and so designed and constructed that it can be easily moved. Rodeo Practice Arena 1598 A facility designed and intended for the display of equestrian skills and the hosting of events including, but not limited to, show jumping, dressage, and similar events of other equestrian disciplines. Scientific, Environmental, or Interpretive Educational Use 1599 Facilities for recreational uses related to the functions and values of a natural area that require limited and low impact site improvement, including soft-surface trails, signs, pedestrian bridges, seating, viewing blinds, observation decks, handicapped facilities, drinking fountains, picnic tables, interpretive facilities, and similar facilities. Solar Collector, Accessory A ground-mounted or building-mounted Solar Collector, as those terms are defined in Section Ground-Mounted Telecom Facility, Building-mounted 1600 An unmanned facility mounted to an existing structure, on the roof of a building, or on the building face(s) consisting of antennas, equipment, and equipment storage shelter used for the reception, switching, and/or transmission of wireless telecommunications including, but not limited to paging, enhanced specialized mobile radio, personal communication services, cellular telephone, and similar technologies. Facilities within this category may include micro-cell or repeater facilities. Temporary Event or Sales 1601 A temporary outdoor use of land for the purposes of an event or sale including but not limited to: a circus, carnival, fair, part, or celebration that reasonably may be expected to attract more than 100 persons at any one time; or any sale made by a person, firm or corporation engaging in the temporary business of selling goods, wares or merchandise from a tent, truck, vending cart or other area outside of a permanent structure on property owned or leased by the person, firm or corporation. The temporary event or sale shall be secondary to or incidental to the permitted use or structure existing on the property and not incompatible with the intent of the zoning district. This use does not include any temporary use defined separately in Table (Permitted Use Table). Temporary Office Temporary buildings customary to the construction of residential or non-residential development Temporary Outdoor Food or Merchandise Stand Any showcase, table, bench, rack, handcart, pushcart, trailer, stall or any other fixture or device that is used for the purpose of selling or offering for sale any food, beverage, or any type of general merchandise. The definition of temporary outdoor food and/or merchandise establishment or stand specifically includes "hot trucks" or other similar motor vehicles used for the purpose of selling or offering for sale any food, beverage, or other general merchandise, whether in a static or transitory location. The sale of ice cream and other confection products is specifically provided for in Sections and New New New From , retitled from CMRS New New Aurora, CO Page 411

184 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses of the City Code Additionally, the term "temporary outdoor food and/or merchandise establishment or stand" shall not be interpreted to prohibit the sale or sampling of items from regularly held events commonly described as "farmer's markets." "Farmer's markets" are subject to the requirements of Temporary Use permits as provided for in this Ordinance. Unlisted Accessory or Temporary Use 1604 An accessory or temporary use that is accessory that is not listed separately in Table (Permitted Use Table). Urban Agriculture, Accessory 1605 Urban agriculture, as defined in Section 6.4.5, when conducted as an accessory use to a permitted or approved conditional use on the site. Wholesale, Accessory A facility for the sales and distribution of goods and parts intended either for resale at retail or as components in the manufacture or assembly of other retail goods; and where such sales are not intended for the general public, that is accessory to a permitted or approved conditional use. Does not include sales or storage of live animals, radioactive, infectious or hazardous waste, or commercial explosives. Wind Energy System, Small Ground-Mounted A small wind energy conversion system, mounted to the ground, that has a rated capacity of 100 KW or less and is an accessory use within a zoning district. The small wind system shall support the energy needs of the principal use on the site. Wind Energy System, Small Rooftop-Mounted A small wind energy conversion system, mounted to a rooftop, that has a rated capacity of 100 KW or less and is an accessory use within a zoning district. The small wind system shall support the energy needs of the principal use on the site. 6.5 OTHER DEFINITIONS Abutting Property or Zone Lot Property that shares at least part of a boundary line, not just a corner point, with the subject property or zone lot Abutting Property Owner The owner of an abutting property. In case of property held in condominium ownership, abutting owner means all the individuals holding undivided ownership in the abutting property. Accessible Approachable, enterable, and usable by persons with disabilities. Accident Potential Zone I-A (APZ I-A) 1607 An area 3,000 feet wide by 5,000 feet long located immediately beyond the clear zone at the end of the northwestern, eastern and western departure runways, as shown on the air installation compatible use zone map. Accident Potential Zone I-B (APZ I-B) An area 3,000 feet wide by 5,000 feet long located immediately beyond the clear zone at the end of the southeastern departure runway, as shown on the air installation compatible use zone map Some temporary retail standards may be regulated by a business permit system rather than the development code New New Corner condition clarifies A map of the different airport accident potential zones will be included. Aurora, CO Page 412

185 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Accident Potential Zone II (APZ II) An area 3,000 feet wide by 7,000 feet long located beyond the accident potential zone I area, as shown on the air installation compatible use zone map. Accident Potential Zone II-A (APZ II-A) An area 3,000 feet wide by 7,000 feet long located beyond the accident potential zone I-A area, as shown on the air installation compatible use zone map. Accident Potential Zone II-B (APZ II-B) An area 3,000 feet wide by 7,000 feet long located beyond the accident potential zone I-B area, as shown on the air installation compatible use zone map. Accident Potential Zone I (APZ I) An area 3,000 feet wide by 5,000 feet long located immediately beyond the clear zone at the end of a runway, as shown on the air installation compatible use zone map. Air Installation Compatible Land Use Zone (AICUZ) A land use planning concept established by the U.S. Air Force to protect the integrity of military operations at airfields, and to protect the safety, health, and welfare of the affected public through source and operational controls and the use of land use compatibility measures. Aisle The traveled way by which motor vehicles enter and depart parking spaces. Alley Any public or private space or thoroughfare of 20 feet or less in width affording a secondary means of public access to abutting properties or buildings. Alley-Loaded A garage on a lot on which the driveway or garage access comes from an alley. Alteration Any change because of construction, repair, maintenance, or otherwise to buildings located within an historic district or designated as a landmark. Amenity A natural or created feature that enhances the aesthetic quality, visual appeal, usefulness or attractiveness of a particular property, place, or area. Applicant The record owner of the site and/or and buildings located on the site, or 2. A lessee of the property; or 3. A person holding a contract to purchase the property, or 4. A person with written authority to file an application signed by one or more of the persons listed in subsections 1, 2, or 3 above. Artificial Turf A man-made substitute for organic turf, lawn, or sod that effectively simulates the appearance of a wellmaintained lawn Assessed Value The value at which property is appraised for tax purposes Revised to allow applications by authorized agents of the owner Phrase requiring compliance with artificial turf standards deleted; definitions should not contain regulations Aurora, CO Page 413

186 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Automobile A self-propelled wheeled vehicle designed for the transportation of either passengers or cargo and weighing less than 6,000 pounds empty weight, to include any passenger vehicles, pick-ups, passenger vans and/or cargo vans. Avigation Easement An easement or right-of-way for unobstructed passage of aircraft above property that waives any right or cause of action against the city arising from noise, vibrations, fumes, dust, fuel particles and other effects caused by aircraft and airport operations. A-weighted Sound Level The sound pressure level in decibels as measured on a sound level meter using the A-weighting network. The level so read is designated db(a) or dba. Awning A framed architectural feature that is attached to and supported from the wall of a building, and that is covered with canvas fabric, or other material as its primary surface, and that, provided or has the appearance of shielding a doorway or window from the elements. Bay Window A window or series of windows projecting outward from the main wall of a building and forming a bay or alcove in a room within. Berm 1610 A mound of earth or the act of pushing earth into a mound, constructed for the purpose of shielding, screening, and buffering undesirable views and to separate incompatible land uses. Black Forest An area within the city limits generally south of a line bounded by Arapahoe, Picadilly, and Smoky Hill roads, east of Parker Road. This region is characterized by hilly terrain, steeply incised slopes, and partial tree cover consisting primarily of Ponderosa Pine and Gambel Oak assemblages. Black Forest Tree or Trees Either or both Ponderosa Pine trees and Gambel Oak shrub plant species. Boundary Road As used for the UC-R zoning districts adjacent to E-470, a road that roughly parallels the alignment of E- 470 (and also turns to parallel the alignment of I-70 at the E-470/I70 interchange) and terminates other streets running toward E-470. The Boundary Road shall be located at least 300 feet from the E-470 rightof-way to define a single row of building sites located between the Boundary Road and E-470, which are referred to as High Visibility Sites. In the case of a regional shopping mall or other regional use containing at least 1,000,000 square feet of gross floor area, the Boundary Road may (at the applicant's option) be a frontage road located closer than 300 feet to the E-470 or I-70 rights-of-way. Where such a large regional use is incorporated into the RAC, the Boundary Road does not need to create High Visibility sites. When the Boundary Road is designed as a frontage road, the areas between the Boundary Road and the E-470 and I-70 rights-of-way shall meet the parking lot perimeter landscaping requirements of Section xx. Brick An architectural product laid up in small, individual units with concrete mortar joints and with a veneer depth of at least three inches that complies with one or more of the following standards: 1. ASTM C55 Standard specification for concrete building brick; 2. ASTM C216 Standard specification for facing brick (solid masonry units made from clay or shale); 3. ASTM C652 Standard specification for hollow brick (hollow masonry units made from clay or shale); 1610 Definition simplified. Aurora, CO Page 414

187 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses 4. An ICC-ES approved evaluation service report; or 5. Any applicable building code standard adopted by Chapter 22 of the City Code. Buffer A continuous strip of land set aside for landscaping along the perimeter of a site. Buffer landscape mitigates external effects, ensures compatibility between uses, and provides a natural transition between uses. Buffer Strip Open spaces, landscaped area, fences, walls, berms, or any combination thereof used to physically separate or screen one use or property from another to visually shield or block noise, lights, or other nuisances. Building 1611 Any structure having a roof supported by columns or walls, and built for the support, shelter, or enclosure of persons, animals, chattels or property of any kind. Building, Accessory 1612 An attached or detached subordinate structure located on the same lot with the principal building, the use of which is customary and incidental to the use of the principal building. Includes home greenhouses, storage sheds, home workshops and tool houses, and other subordinate buildings. Building Code The International Building Code, published by the International Code Council, Inc., as amended and adopted by the City Council in Chapter 22 of the City Code Building Footprint The total area measured at the building's outside walls at its ground plane exclusive of uncovered porches, terraces, and steps. Building Permit The document issued by the chief building official that is required for all structures and buildings prior to any activity that involves the construction, erection, alteration, enlargement, repair, relocation, improvement, removal, conversion, or demolition of a structure or building. Building Separation The least horizontal distance permitted between the nearest portions of any buildings on a site. Caliper The diameter of a tree trunk measured at six inches above ground level for trees up to four inches in diameter and 12 inches above ground for larger diameter trees. Carport 1614 A structure sheltering one or more parking spaces, unenclosed on one or more sides, and not meeting the definition of a residential garage. Centerlines, Streets and Alleys A line drawn along the center of a street or alley that is parallel to and equidistant from each edge of the street or alley right-of-way. Certificate of Occupancy The document issued by the chief building official prior to the occupation or use of a building or structure that certifies the building or structure is in conformance with the provisions of the building code and any other laws enforced by the code enforcement division of the city Clause stating that building can apply to a historically related group of buildings deleted because of potential for unintended consequences From current , revised to add specific examples Need to confirm that this is still correct Revised to merge existing definitions. Aurora, CO Page 415

188 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses CFR Part 77 Surfaces (or 14 CFR Part 77 Surfaces) 1615 Imaginary surfaces in the airport vicinity as established by the Federal Aviation Administration Regulation, part 77, "Objects Affecting Navigable Airspace," U.S. Department of Transportation, FAA, January 1975, as amended, for commercial and military airports for the purpose of controlling heights of objects in the airport vicinity, as codified at 14 CFR 77.28, incorporated in this article by this reference. Change of Use Any use that substantially differs from the previous use of a building or land. Circulation Systems, structures, and physical improvements for the movement of people, goods, water, air, sewage, or power, by such means as streets, highways, railways, waterways, towers, airways, pipes, and conduits and the handling of people and goods by such means as terminals, stations, warehouses, and other storage buildings or transshipment points. Clear Zone (CZ) An area at the immediate end of each runway, which area is 3,000 feet wide by 3,000 feet long. Co-Location 1616 As used in Telecom Facility regulations, the siting of two or more Telecom Facilities of similar or different technologies on the same freestanding support structure that allows appropriate separation of antennae to eliminate radio interference between providers. Collection Kiosk A small free-standing structure used for collection of donations. Commercial Message A message that is primarily concerned with the marketplace of goods and services, or the economic interests of the speaker and/or the audience, or that proposes a commercial transaction. Comprehensive Plan 1617 The long-range comprehensive plan for the City adopted by City Council, including all amendments adopted by City Council. Conditional Use A use that may be permitted if found to be compatible with adjacent uses and would not change the character of the neighborhood. Construction Any site preparation, assembly, erection, substantial repair, alteration, or similar action, but excluding demolition, for or of public or private rights-of-way, structures, utilities, or similar property. On a historic site or in a historic district construction means the erection of any improvements on any parcel of land. Construction Protection Devices and Measures Temporary structural measures such as fencing, tape lines, and berms, installed prior to construction to minimize tree damage and permanent structural measures such as retaining walls and aeration devices designed to protect the tree throughout its lifetime. Curb Cut A cut in the curbline of a street provided for the passage of vehicles. Demolition The complete or constructive removal by an applicant of a building on any site Staff: This reference appears outdated. Can you check with aviation staff to see the current reference they want included From current , with minor revisions for clarity Definition revised to cover amendments. Aurora, CO Page 416

189 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Developer The legal or beneficial owner or owners of a lot or of any land included in a proposed development, including the holder of an option or contract to purchase or other persons having enforceable proprietary interests in such land. Development 1618 Any manmade change to improved or unimproved real estate, including but not limited to the construction, reconstruction, conversion, or enlargement of any structure; and any clearing, dredging, grading, paving, excavation, or drilling or mining operation. The term "development" shall also include the subdivision or resubdivision of real property. Dormer A windowed wall area flanked on both sides by sloping roof areas. Downcast Lighting On-site illumination that is constructed, located, and aligned in such a manner to restrict the cone of illumination to ground surface areas within the boundaries of the site and to prevent such illumination sources from being visible from abutting properties and public streets. Drainage Feature Any natural or artificial watercourse, trench, ditch, swale, or similar depression into which surface water flows. Drive Lane A private paved, unenclosed accessway allowing vehicular access either to individual buildings or to parking spaces within parking lots, or to more than one parking space. In the case of single-family attached or multi-family dwellings, drive lane means an accessway shared by the residents as guests of the two or more dwellings. Driveway 1. In the case of a lot containing a single-family detached or two-family home, the unenclosed vehicular access way leading exclusively to the enclosed or unenclosed parking spaces serving the lot; or 2. In all other cases involving a residential use, the unenclosed vehicular access way leading directly to one or more parking spaces where both the access way and parking spaces are reserved for the exclusive use of the inhabitants or guests of the single dwelling unit. Easement A grant or one or more of the property rights by the owner of a parcel of land to and/or for a public agency, corporation, or persons, for specific uses and purposes. Electronic Message Board (EMB) A sign that is capable of displaying words, symbols, figures or images that can be changed by remote or automatic means. Equipment Storage Shelter As used in Telecom Facility regulations, an unmanned structure used for freestanding facilities or, when necessary, roof or building mounted facilities to house Telecom Facility equipment. Exterior Architectural Feature The architectural style, design, general arrangement and components of all of the outer surfaces of an improvement as distinguished from the interior surfaces enclosed by the exterior surfaces, including but not limited to the kind, color, and texture of the building material and the type and style of all windows, doors, lights, signs, and other fixtures appurtenant to such improvement Incorporates current definition of development activities. Aurora, CO Page 417

190 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Facade The front of a building or any of its sides facing a public street or any public space. Family or Family Group Any of the following: 1. A group of persons related by blood, marriage, or adoption, living together as a single housekeeping unit; 1619 or 2. Persons living together in the relationship and for the purpose of guardian, ward, or foster family or receiving home care who may not necessarily be related by blood or marriage to the head of the household, but live together as a single housekeeping unit, but not including correctional homes; or 3. A group of not more than four unrelated persons living together in a dwelling unit as a single housekeeping unit; or 4. Living arrangements in which one person is providing care to another occupant who is not related by blood or marriage, provided they neither maintain separate cooking facilities nor advertise the premises for rent; or 5. A single individual living as a single housekeeping unit; or 6. A group of individuals whose right to live together in a group home setting is protected by the federal Fair Housing Act Amendments of 1988, as interpreted by the courts, or by similar legislation of the State of Colorado A family shall not include more than one person required to register as a sex offender pursuant to , C.R.S. as amended, unless related by marriage or consanguinity A family shall not include any group of individuals who are in a group living arrangement as a result of criminal offenses. Faux Window 1622 "Faux" windows shall contain a recessed glass surface or other surface that will mimic the appearance of a window. If glass is used, it does not have to be transparent and may be backed by a solid wall. Fence An artificially constructed barrier of any material or combination of materials erected to enclose, screen, or separate areas. Fence, Closed-Style A fence design that has a method of construction and pattern of materials leaving the plane of the fence solid or less than 50 percent open as measured continuously in four-foot intervals along its length. Fence, New The construction and installation of a fence where none previously existed. The term shall also apply to construction and installation of extensions and additions to existing fences. Fence, Open-Style A fence design that has a method of construction and pattern of materials leaving the plane of the fence at least 50 percent open as measured continuously in four-foot intervals along its length. (See Figure 17.1). Fence, Replacement Either the replacement of 50% or more of the length of an existing fence under a single ownership, or replacement of 150 linear feet or more within a single run of existing fence, whichever amount is less. "Single run of fence" shall mean a portion of fence, either continuous or with gaps, generally aligned along a single direction, such as a fence running parallel to a single street. A single fence run shall be 1619 Phrase and normally consisting of two parents and their children deleted New provision for compliance with federal law This text may be revised to reflect restrictions on city abilities to regulate child sex offender occupancy as a result of the court decisions interpreting Colorado sex offender statutes From Original Aurora Standards. Aurora, CO Page 418

191 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses deemed to terminate at a street intersection, or at a major change of direction such as at a corner lot line. Minor fence jogs of 15 feet or less shall not be deemed to terminate a fence run. Flag Pole A pole physically anchored to the ground with an underground foundation. Flowline The line at the face of the curb nearest to the street or roadway. In the absence of a curb, the city engineer shall establish the flowline. Focal Point As used for UC-R zoning districts surrounded by or adjacent to land in the E-470 zoning district Subareas, a point that serves as the center of the area with the highest development density or the most intense activity in the RAC. The focal point shall include a distinctively designed building or feature that is visible from E-470 and that is immediately adjacent to the Walkable Main Street element (as defined below). The Focal Point shall be connected to the Main Street (as defined in this Chapter ), and may be located within a High Visibility site (as defined in this Chapter 146-6). The tallest buildings and the buildings with the highest development density within the RAC shall be located on Focal Point Sites, which shall include all of the land within 660 feet of the Focal Point, and which may also (at the applicant's option) include any additional land located within 660 feet of the Main Street. Forest Management Practices Maintenance activities such as pruning and thinning or removal of diseased, dying, or severe weather impacted trees (e.g., lightning strike damage) in order to foster the optimal health of remaining trees in a stand. Frame Effect/Transition A visual effect of an electronic message display applied to a single frame to transition from one message to the next, which may include but not limited to dissolve, fade, scroll, etc. Front Entry An entry to a unit that is directly connected to a network of sidewalks, and that opens directly into the unit's living room or family room, or to a hallway leading directly to a living room or family room. For example, an exterior door opening into a kitchen area would not be considered a "front entry." Garage A fully enclosed building with one or more vehicular doors for the parking or storage of motor vehicles. Garage, Private Residential A fully enclosed structure with one or more vehicular doors; and owned by or assigned to the occupants of a specific dwelling unit or their guests. Garage, Shared Residential A fully enclosed structure with one or more vehicular doors; with assigned spaces for the exclusive use of the owners or residents (or their guests) of specific dwelling units. Grade, Ground Level The lowest point of elevation of the finished surface of the ground, paving, or sidewalk within the area between the building and the property line or, when the property line is more than five feet from the building, between the building and a line five feet from the building. If walls are parallel to and within five feet of a sidewalk, alley, or other public way, the aboveground level shall be measured at the elevation of the sidewalk, alley, or public way. Groundcover Plants, other than turf grass, that are low growing and spreading in character and obtain heights of 18" or less. Aurora, CO Page 419

192 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Habitable Unit 1623 Any habitable room or group of habitable rooms that provide sleeping facilities alone or in combination with required cooking, eating, or living facilities. Handicap As used to interpret the requirements of the federal Fair Housing Act Amendments of 1988, as interpreted by the courts, or regulations adopted pursuant to that legislation, (1) a physical or mental impairment that substantially limits one or more life activities, (2) a record of having such an impairment, or (3) being regarded as having such an impairment, but the term does not include current, illegal use of or addiction to a controlled substance as defined in 21 U.S.C Hedge A row of densely planted shrubs with upright growth habits, spaced between 18 in. and 36 in. on center. Hedges may be formal (pruned) or informal (unpruned) in character. Hedges may be composed of either deciduous or evergreen plants. High Visibility Site As used in the E-470 zoning district regulations, the single row of building sites located between the E- 470 right-of-way and the Boundary Road. Historic District An area designated by the historic preservation commission as an historic district under this division. A district is a geographically definable area, urban or rural, that possesses a significant concentration, linkage or continuity of sites, buildings, structures or objects united by past events or aesthetically by plan or physical development. A district may also comprise individual elements separated geographically but linked by association or history. Historic Preservation The protection, rehabilitation, restoration and reconstruction of districts, sites, buildings, structures and objects significant in the city's history, architecture, archaeology, engineering, or culture. Historic Preservation Commission A body established in chapter 78, article II of this Code in accordance with federal law, 36 CFR 61.5, subsection 2, to administer the provisions of the code as created in this chapter. Household Pets Any domesticated animal commonly kept in the primary residence including dogs, domestic cats, domestic caged birds, canaries, parrots, rabbits, hamsters, guinea pigs and similar rodents, fish, reptiles and other species customarily and legally sold at a local pet shop. Animals shall be considered household pets so long as such animals are not kept to supplement food supplies or for any commercial purpose whatsoever other than the offering of sale of one litter, brood or offspring of a household pet domiciled on the premises that is less than six months old. Household pet does not include livestock or potbellied pigs. Illuminance The areal density of the luminous flux incident at a point on a surface. Infill Development Parcel 1624 An area of platted or unplatted land that, together with all adjacent vacant land in private ownership, includes no more than 10 acres of land, and where the land along at least 75 percent of the boundaries of the proposed subdivision (ignoring intervening streets) has been developed for a period of at least ten years. Individual Development Parcel A tract of platted or unplatted land that does not meet the definition of either an infill development parcel or master planned community New. Term used in parking standards for certain group living quarters and medical facilities Threshold revised from 20 acres to 10 acres. Aurora, CO Page 420

193 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Individual Letter As used in sign regulations, a sign system of individual letters sometimes referred to channel letters. Such letters shall have a minimum depth of one inch and shall not be associated with a cabinet sign type system. Irrigation The automatic application of water to support landscaping. Irrigation System A permanent, underground, and automatically controlled artificial watering system designed to transport and distribute water to plant materials. Landmark A parcel with improvements designated as a landmark by the historic preservation commission under this division. Landmark Site An unimproved parcel of ground declared by the historic preservation commission to be a landmark site under this division. Landscape Area All areas that are not covered by buildings, structures, and impervious pavement and will require landscaping that will prevent dust, and wind and water erosion. Landscaping An area of natural scenery, and lawns, trees, plants, and other natural materials, such as rock and wood chips, and decorative features, including sculpture, patterned walks, and pools. LDN A day-night average sound level measured in decibels (dba) during a 24-hour period of the A-weighted sound pressure level, with the levels during the period 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. the following day increased by 10 dba before averaging. Points of equal LDN level may be linked by a contour line. Lot, Large A Single-family Detached Lot with less than 6,000 square feet of gross area. Lot, Medium A Single-family Detached Lot with between 6,000 and 8,999 square feet of gross area. Lot, Small A Single-family Detached Lot with between 2,500 than 6,000 square feet of gross area A Regular Small Lot is one in which a house is located with a side yard of both sides of the single-family detached dwelling, and that does not meet the definition of a Clustered Small Lot An Offset Small Lot is one in which a house is located with a side yard of both sides of the single-family detached dwelling, and that does not meet the definition of a Clustered Small Lot. 3. A Clustered Small Lot is one in which open space that would otherwise be required to be located on individual residential lots is instead provided at one or more shared locations close to the individual residential lots Prohibition on lots smaller than 3,700 square feet was deleted. Older platted areas of the city could easily have lots as small as 2,500 square feet Regular, Offset, and Clustered Small Lot definitions are new. Aurora, CO Page 421

194 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Maintenance and Repair All work on interior improvements that are not visible on a building's exterior; all repair, replacement and upgrades to mechanical equipment on a building's interior or otherwise screened from view; resurfacing of existing roofs; 2. Replacement of deteriorated exterior building surfaces, subject to the exceptions noted below; 3. Minor cosmetic improvements to structures, parking lots, and landscaping subject to the exceptions noted below; 4. Replacement of dead or dying landscaping; 5. Resurfacing of existing deteriorated asphalt surfaces; 6. Re-stripping of parking lots; 7. Addition of miscellaneous individual light fixtures, and very minor landscape improvements such as the addition of potted plants or ten or fewer shrubs. Marquee A permanently roofed architectural projection whose sides are vertical and are intended for the display of signs and that is supported entirely from an exterior wall of a building. Masonry Brick, stone, or stucco, or any combination thereof. For purposes of the city's Residential Design Standards in Sections (Design Standards for Single-Family Detached and Two-Family Dwellings) and (Building Materials), this term does not include cementitious panels, pre-cast concrete panels, or concrete masonry units. Masonry Fence Under the City of Aurora Fence Replacement Program shall mean a fence constructed of masonry materials (brick, stone, concrete, tile, or other similar building units or materials) laid up unit by unit to construct a fence and/or its main support structure. Siding and veneers may be permitted to be applied (i.e. stucco) as long as the internal support structure or bearing wall of the fence is constructed of the aforementioned masonry materials. Masonry fence construction fabricated in a location other than its final in-service location [known] as prefabricated and panelized masonry) shall be permitted as long as the fence panel is constructed entirely of masonry materials. Poured concrete construction has been classified as masonry, and therefore shall mean that pre-cast concrete panels shall be permitted for use as fences under this definition. Masonry Wall 1628 A wall faced with integrally colored decorative masonry block, stucco, or brick to match or blend with materials building or fence column materials on the parcel. Master Plan A general plan of development of a large or complex area indicating general locations and intensities of land uses and street, trail, and open space networks, that does not contain the level of detail required in a major or minor site plan but must comply with all administrative regulations of the city regarding such plans. Master Planned Community An application for a subdivision or resubdivision that includes at least 320 acres of land and is subject to Ordinance requirements to have an approved Master Plan Median A paved or landscaped strip dividing a highway/street into lanes according to direction of travel Current (C)1 from FBAD made generally applicable Slightly revised for clarity and to remove height standard, which may vary by context Revised since Module 1 to remove reference to E-470 district. Aurora, CO Page 422

195 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Mentally Ill A person with a substantial disorder of the cognitive, volitional, or emotional processes that grossly impairs judgment or capacity to recognize reality or control behavior. Mobile Billboard Any wheeled vehicle used primarily for the display of general advertising or general advertising for hire, by means of traversing upon any public street or parking on any public street in a manner that the advertising image(s) on the vehicle are visible from any portion of the public right-of-way. Also known as "sign truck" or "billboard truck." This definition does not apply to vehicles displaying images related to the same business or establishment of which the vehicle is an operating instrument, such as, by way of example and not limitation, an advertisement for a grocery store on a truck delivering merchandise to that store. Also, it does not apply to vehicles that are on the public road for the primary purpose of transportation, such as taxis and buses, even if such vehicles display general advertising. Mulch Nonliving plant materials that are applied to plant beds and are at the base of trees and shrubs. Mulches include organic materials such as wood chips and shredded bark, and inert organic materials such as decomposed granite, cobble, and gravel. Native Seed, Dryland Grasses, Restorative Grasses Native seed, dryland grasses, or restorative grasses shall mean all warm- and cool-season grass species used for the re-vegetation of disturbed natural grass areas that are not maintained in a uniform, consistent, and evenly cut condition. Neighborhood For purposes of applying the subdivision regulations in Section ,a defined area of residential and supporting development that contains no more than 200 acres, and is separated from other similar neighborhoods by significant natural or man-made features such as: 1. Clearly visible bluffs, rock outcroppings, or landforms designated as open space, 2. Water features, major drainages, or designated open spaces at least 100 feet in width, 3. An arterial street meeting the requirements of the Aurora street standards, 4. A collector street that has a planted median at least 14 feet in width and that complies with all other standards for a collector street as described in the Aurora Street Standards, or 5. Permitted nonresidential uses. Noise 1630 Any sound that annoys or disturbs a reasonable person of normal sensitivities disturbs or animals or that causes or tends to cause an adverse psychological or physiological effect on humans or animals. Noncommercial Message A message that pertains primarily to debate in the marketplace of ideas. Such messages typically cover subjects such as politics, religion, philosophy, social policy, as well as commentary on sports, arts and entertainments, etc. There is no on-site/off-site distinction as to noncommercial messages. Nonconforming Lot 1631 A platted lot or parcel of land that does not conform to the provisions of this Ordinance for the zone district(s) in which it is located, but that was lawful for sale or development at the time it was created Nonconforming Sign A sign that does not conform to the provisions of this Ordinance, but that was lawful at the time it was erected Consolidates current definitions for noise and noise disturbance New New. Aurora, CO Page 423

196 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Nonconforming Site Feature A feature of a developed lot, parcel, or site such as parking areas, landscaped areas, or exterior lighting, that does not conform to the provisions of this Ordinance, but that was lawful at the time the lot, parcel, or site was last developed or redeveloped Nonconforming Structure A building or structure that does not conform to the provisions of the building and/or zoning regulations, but that was lawfully constructed according to the building and zoning provisions existing at the time of such construction. Nonconforming Use A use of land that does not conform to the requirements of the zoning code, but that was lawfully established under the zoning code provisions existing at the time the use was established. Non-Living Landscape Material Non-landscaped organic and inorganic materials such as rock, cobbles, wood chips and shredded bark, artificial turf, natural and man-made pavers, crusher fines, and crushed granite. Nuisance 1634 An interference with the enjoyment and use of property generally recognized in law as a private or public nuisance. Ornamental Tree Any self-supporting woody perennial plant that reaches a mature height of eight feet to 25 feet. Open Space An outdoor, unenclosed area, located on the ground, designed and accessible for outdoor living, recreation, pedestrian access, or landscaping, but not including roads, parking areas, driveways, or other areas intended for vehicular travel. Parapet An extension of the main exterior walls of a building above the roof level. Parking Area Any public or private area, under or outside of a building or structure, designed and used for parking motor vehicles, including parking lots, garages, private driveways, and legally designated areas of public streets. Parking, Shared Joint use of a parking area for more than one use. Pennant Any lightweight material, whether or not containing a message of any kind, suspended from a rope, wire, string or other contrivance usually in a series, designed to move in the wind. Permitted Use 1635 Any use authorized by right in a particular zoning district or districts and subject to the restrictions applicable to that use and zoning district. Person An individual, partnership, corporation, company, or other association. Plant Bed An area prepared for the installation of plant materials New Reference to public and private nuisance definitions is new New. Aurora, CO Page 424

197 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Plat A map of a land subdivision prepared according to applicable laws of the State of Colorado and those regulations having the necessary affidavits for filing, dedications and acceptances, and with complete bearings and dimensions of all lines defining lots and blocks, streets and alleys, public areas and other dimensions of land. Preservation Specialist The person under the supervision of the parks and open space department who is the historic preservation commission's staff person and as such prepares presentations for commission meetings and serves as the initial recipient of landmark nominations and development applications, pursuant to sections. The preservation specialist shall also be the custodian of records, official correspondence, and staff liaison. The preservation specialist shall maintain and submit landmark designations and applications to the city Planning Department and Neighborhood Services Department. Primary Building Material Any building material that appears on more than 30 percent of the horizontal wall space of any exterior wall of a primary building. Private Common Open Space A landscaped open space area held in private ownership and not meeting the definition of a buffer. Yard areas of single-family, two-family, and single-family attached duplexes shall not be considered private common open space. Redevelopment Plan A detailed plan for how a site is developed for a use that is limited to lawfully existing buildings and structures. Reserve Strip A strip of land designed to prevent or control access to a street. Resubdivision A change in a recorded subdivision plat that does not require abandonment of the preceding plat but that does require review and approval in accordance with the subdivision plat procedures of this subdivision ordinance. Rezoning (or Rezone) 1636 A change to the zoning map that redesignates one or more lots, parcels, or sites, or parts thereof, from one zone district(s) to another zone district(s). Right-Of-Way 1637 An area of land dedicated to the public in fee simple title conveyed to the city for drainage, pedestrian, utility, street lighting, landscaping, roadway or other purposes. Riparian Corridor An area adjacent to one or more rivers or streams that has a high density, diversity, and productivity of plant and animal species related to nearby upland areas. Roadway A right-of-way reserved for motor vehicles. The term shall include public and private streets and alleys; and private motor courts, loop lanes, drive lanes, but shall not include driveways as defined in this chapter. Screening A method of visually shielding or obscuring one abutting or nearby structure or use from another by fencing, walls, berms, or densely planted vegetation Definition revised for clarity Definition revised for clarity. Aurora, CO Page 425

198 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Search Area A geographic area with defined boundaries primarily at or near the center of a potential service area for one Telecom Facility within the context of a provider's network. The area includes any available support structures, existing buildings, towers, electrical transmission towers, monopoles, and vacant land. Final determination of a site is based on topography, zoning, structure height, the ability to obtain an acceptable lease or property, radio frequency, coverage, capacity and transmission requirements for the proposed Telecom Facility service area. Shade Tree A self-supporting deciduous woody perennial plant that reaches a mature height of at least 45 feet. Shade trees shall be 2-½ inch caliper at the time of installation. Shrub A self-supporting woody perennial ranging in height from six inches to 20 feet. Shrubs are characterized by multi-stemmed growth habits and can be deciduous or evergreen. Siding 1638 The outer covering or cladding of a house, made of wood, fiber cement, or a composite material, meant to shed water and protect the house from the effects of weather. Siding, Lap Siding composed of tapered boards, as clapboards, laid horizontally with the thicker lower edge of each board overlapping the thinner upper edge of the board below it. Siding, Vinyl Siding made of a rigid polyvinyl chloride compound with a minimum thickness of.045 inches that complies with one or more of the following standards: 1. ASTM D3679 Standard specification for rigid poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) siding; 2. An ICC-ES approved evaluation service report; or 3. Any applicable building code standard adopted by Chapter 22 of the City Code. Sign Any medium, including its structure and the component parts, that is used or intended to be used to attract attention to the subject matter for advertising or identifying purposes. The term "sign" shall not include design features of an architectural nature that do not employ words or prices. Sign, Awning A sign depicted or placed upon, attached to, constructed in, or supported by an awning extending over functional or faux windows. Sign, Blade Small scale sign hanging or projecting perpendicular to building face. Sign, Canopy A sign on a framed architectural feature that is attached to and supported from the wall of a building. Sign, Community Event Fabric Banners and other signs of a temporary nature designed to promote community festivals and community events or to otherwise promote the identity of a particular neighborhood or district Definition simplified. Aurora, CO Page 426

199 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Sign, Directional A private traffic directional sign guiding or directing vehicular or pedestrian traffic onto or off of a property or within a property. Sign, Fabric Any sign, banner, valance or advertising display constructed of cloth, canvas, fabric, or other light material, with or without frames. Sign, Governmental/Public Service Governmental, legal notices, traffic, danger, emergency, aids to public service or safety, and trespassing signs shall not require a sign permit or signs of public utilities companies, airports or contractors indicating aids to public service or safety. Sign, Ground Fabric Any sign with a structure that is mounted on the ground, intended to be displayed for a limited time period and is temporary in nature. Sign, Individual Letter A type of sign consisting of independent letters respective of each other, text or symbols with no background material other than the wall of the building or a common structure known as a "raceway" to which they are affixed, with a minimum depth of one-inch. If the individual letters are attached to a "raceway", the "raceway" must be painted to match the color of the wall and must be limited to a height of no more than one-half of the height of the tallest letter. Sign, Joint Tenant and Project Identification An onsite sign identifying or advertising two or more tenants in the same development or signs identifying developments or projects, including building or development names. Sign, Monument/Ground A detached, freestanding sign supported by a permanent base, where the entire bottom of the sign is affixed to the ground. Sign, Off-Site Home Builder Any temporary sign located to be visible from the public right-of-way and used or intended to be used to aid and direct the movement of the public to residential developments offering dwelling units for sale at premises other than those upon which the sign is located, and to public amenities and facilities associated therewith. No such sign shall advertise sale of individual lots or dwelling units. Sign, Off-Premises 1639 A sign including billboards or general outdoor advertising device that advertises or directs attention to a business, profession, commodity, entertainment, service, religious, charitable or nonprofit organization, or an activity, product, good, or service that is not located upon or available upon the premises where the sign is located. Sign, On-Site Home/Commercial Builder A temporary sign that advertises a home or commercial building development located within the lots lines of such development. Sign, Project Identification A sign giving the nature, logo, trademark, or other identifying symbol; address; or any combination of the name, symbol and address of a building, business, development, or establishment on the premises where it is located. Sign, Projecting 1639 Merges current definition with types of advertising section in current off-premises sign controls. Aurora, CO Page 427

200 Article : Definitions and Rules of Construction 6.5. Other Definitions Accessory and Temporary Uses Any sign that projects perpendicular to and is supported by a building. A grand projecting sign is a projecting sign in which Sign, Roof A sign erected upon or projects above any portion of the roof or parapet of the building or structure. Sign, Temporary Development A sign identifying proposed construction or leasing opportunities on the property where the sign is located. Sign, Temporary Any sign or other advertising device or display constructed of cloth, canvas, cardboard, wall board, plywood, or other light temporary material, with or without structural frame, intended for a temporary display for a limited period of time only. Such signs include real estate "for sale," "for rent", and "open house" signs, garage sale signs, temporary signs identifying the architect, engineer or contractor for work currently under construction, on-site commercial messages, or temporary noncommercial messages including political, election, or ideological signs. Sign, Wall Any sign attached to or painted on the wall of a building or structure with the exposed face of the sign in a plane parallel to the plane of the wall. Sign, Window Any sign that is applied, painted or otherwise attached to the interior or exterior of a window surface or is otherwise clearly visible from the exterior of the structure. Site Improvements Constructed utilities, roads, driveways, parking areas, landscaping, sidewalks, or structures on a site. Site Plan A detailed plan depicting how a site will be developed by illustrations and drawings of such site features as architectural building elevations, building locations, sidewalks, parking areas, landscaping, recreational amenities and other site features. Site Specific Development Plan A site plan. Sole Source of Heat One or more residential solid fuel fired heating devices that constitutes the only source of heat in a private residence for purposes of space heating. A residential solid fuel fired heating device shall be considered to be the sole source of heat if the private residence is equipped with a permanently installed furnace or heating system, designed to heat the residence, but is disconnected from its energy source, e.g., heating oil, natural gas, electricity, or propane. Solid Fuel Fired Heating Device A device designed for solid fuel combustion so that usable heat is derived for the interior of a building, and includes solid fuel fired stoves, fireplaces, pellet stoves, solid fuel fired cooking stoves, and a combination of fuel furnaces or boilers that burn solid fuel. Solid fuel fired heating devices do not include barbecue devices or natural gas fired fireplace logs. Stone As used in applying the standards in Section (Building Design Standards) natural stone or a cement-based product made to match the appearance of natural stone, and laid up in small, individual 1640 Considering adding standards or size thresholds for this type of sign. Aurora, CO Page 428