The city and contiguous unincorporated area are divided into the districts stated in this chapter as shown by the district boundaries on the Zone Map. There are created for zoning purposes within the territory under the jurisdiction of the Plan Commission, classes of districts with the following names and designations:
(A) Conservation District. The conservation district (“C-1") is intended to be limited to agricultural, recreational and certain other open land uses. The purpose of this district is to prevent intensive development of land that is unsuitable for development because of topography, soil conditions, periodic flooding, or other natural features. Residential and related uses may be permitted by special exception. Refer to the Appendix A: Official Schedule of Uses.
(B) Agricultural-Residential District. The agricultural-residential district (“A-R”) is intended for areas that cannot feasibly be served with public water and sewer facilities. This district will preserve and protect agricultural land from undesirable urban growth while permitting residential development on large lots, which provide adequate space for private water and sewerage facilities.
(C) Residential Districts. The residential districts (“R-l”, “R-2", and “R-3") are intended to be limited to dwellings and public or semi-public uses which are normally associated with residential neighborhoods. The only uses permitted in the residential districts are those which would not detract from the residential character of the neighborhood (refer to Appendix A: the Official Schedule of Uses). While the number of families, the lot and yard requirements, and the setbacks may vary between each residential district so that the city may provide for the housing needs and desires of all its citizens, the overarching purpose of these districts is to create an attractive, stable, and orderly residential neighborhood environment.
(D) Business Districts. The business districts (“B-1, “B-2", and “B-3") are intended to be limited to business, public and certain residential uses and to provide for conveniently located unified shopping destinations. Through the establishment of relatively compact districts for all business related uses, the city is better able to provide for more efficient and effective traffic movement, parking facilities, and emergency services. Industrial uses are often excluded in order to reduce the hazards caused by the extensive truck and rail movements which are typically associated with such industrial uses. The “B-1 district is intended to be limited to the downtown area.
(E) Industrial Districts. The industrial districts (“I-1" and “I-2") are intended to provide suitable space for the expansion of existing industrial uses as well as for future industrial development. The desirable location for these districts are parcels near railroads or highways. These parcels are typically well suited to the transportation needs of industrial uses. Performance and developing standards and regulations are set forth in this chapter in order to insure that industrial development is compatible with adjacent uses.
(F) Planned Unit Development District. The intent of a planned unit development (PUD) is to encourage innovative residential communities and mixed-use developments within the City of Crawfordsville that will preserve the natural amenities of the site and provide for the general welfare of the jurisdiction. Developers of planned unit developments will be offered flexibility in design and development. However, a PUD shall not compromise the purpose of this chapter nor shall it be a far departure from the purpose and intent of the original district.
(G) Stream Corridor District. The purpose of the stream corridor district (“SC”) is to preserve and protect the existing natural and scenic qualities of lands adjacent to streams of unique historical, scenic and recreational value. By limiting the type of uses permitted, either by right or be special exception, within the SC District, the city is better able to: preserve the stream and the lands adjacent to it in an undisturbed natural state so as to add in the aesthetic appeal and water quality of the stream corridor; protect wildlife and natural vegetation; and, prevent erosion. The Stream Corridor District shall extend 150 feet horizontally in each direction measured from the center thread and/or secondary thread of the stream. Special exceptions may require flood plain permits and/or recommendations from the Indiana Department of Natural Resources. These permits and/or recommendations shall be obtained prior to any action by the Board of Zoning Appeals. The BZA may impose greater restrictions. In addition, there shall be no clear cutting of timber or complete removal of vegetation within the district. Timber may be cut using good forestry practices and vegetation may be trimmed.
(Ord. 4-2009, passed 3-9-09)