A planned unit development (PUD) is a parcel or combination of parcels of land which is planned and developed as a unit under single ownership or control. It may contain one or a mixture of uses, types of buildings, as well as common open space, clustered development and/or recreational facilities. The purpose of the PUD process is to provide opportunity for land development that preserves and utilizes natural topographic, geologic and scenic features; allows a more efficient pattern of residential and commercial uses; fosters innovative design concepts and promotes flexibility in site design; and provides for common open space or other amenities not found in traditional lot by lot development. The PUD process allows the city to approve modifications from the development standards of the underlying zoning designation in order to encourage creative design for land use development than is generally available under conventional zoning regulations. (Ord. 430, 12-16-2008)