(A) Design of the subdivision shall take into consideration existing village and regional comprehensive plans, and shall be based on a site analysis. To the maximum extent practicable, development shall be located to preserve the natural features of the site, to avoid areas of environmental sensitivity, and to minimize negative impacts and alterations of natural features. The following specific areas shall be preserved as undeveloped open space, to the extent consistent with the reasonable utilization of land, and in accordance with the U.S. and Ohio Constitutions and state or federal regulations:
(1) Unique and/or fragile areas, including wetlands, as may be defined in Section 404, Federal Water Pollution Act, as amended, and, in Ohio Environmental Protection Agency (OEPA) standards;
(2) Land in the floodway as identified and mapped using the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s (FEMA) flood insurance rate maps (FIRM);
(3) Habitats of endangered wildlife, as identified on federal and state lists; and
(4) Historically and culturally significant structures and sites, as listed on the National Register of Historical Places.
(B) The development shall be laid out to avoid adversely affecting groundwater and aquifer recharge; to reduce cut and fill; to avoid unnecessary impervious cover; to prevent flooding; to provide adequate access to lots and sites; and, to mitigate adverse effects of noise, odor, traffic, drainage, and utilities on neighboring properties. The placement of buildings in residential developments shall take into consideration topography, building height, orientation and drainage.
(C) If the Planning Commission finds that the land proposed to be subdivided is unsuitable for subdivision development due to conditions which may endanger health, life, or property as determined by investigations conducted by the public agencies concerned, then it is determined that in the best interests of the public, the land should not be developed for the purpose proposed.
(Ord. 20-04, passed 12-27-2004)