(A) In the interest of being able to provide required public works and utility services throughout the town limits, it is necessary that associated public utility structures and apparatus be located as required by engineering design and public need.
(B) The following are special uses and may be permitted in all zoning districts, subject to a finding of the Board of Adjustment that all below listed conditions have been met.
(1) Water, sewer, telephone, cable television and electric power distribution lines may be located in all zoning districts according to a design and layout prepared by an engineer licensed to operate in the State of North Carolina. Lines shall, when possible, be located within existing street rights-of-way, other town-owned property or public easement areas to which the town has rights. In the event this is not possible due to design criteria, then additional public utility easement rights shall be obtained by the town, in which said lines shall be located. All line installation shall be conducted according to appropriate state and federal guidelines, depending upon the utility line in question. All necessary permits shall be obtained prior to installation. These facilities and associated apparatus will take into account the impact of the aesthetic value and practical use of property. All lines must be located underground.
(2) Water and sewage pumping stations with associated apparatus and public utility substations may be located in all zoning districts according to a design and layout prepared by an engineer licensed to operate in the State of North Carolina. Facilities shall be located on town-owned property or within public utility easement areas to which the town has rights. All construction shall be conducted according to appropriate state and federal guidelines, depending upon the facility in question. All necessary permits shall be obtained prior to construction.
(3) All utility structures, apparatus and stations shall meet the following regulations:
(a) Landscaping and elevation drawings of the structures and enclosures should be provided with the special use application.
(b) The structure or apparatus shall be appropriately enclosed and/or landscaped for safety or aesthetic reasons when deemed necessary. Structures or apparatus will present a visual image that is compatible with and similar to the character of the surrounding area. Fencing may be considered to the height of six feet to encompass the immediate footprint of all dangerous apparatus.
(c) No vehicles shall be parked on the structure premises except for those required for utility service or other town approved operation. No materials shall be permanently stored on the premises. However, materials necessary for repairs or servicing of the facility may be stored during the time in which repairs or services are in progress.
(d) The facility shall be used solely for its intended purpose. The facilities shall be secured when vacant.
(Ord. 01-01, passed 1-22-01)
(e) All screening or aesthetic landscaping shall he installed and implemented prior to any certificate of occupancy. That the landscaping, irrigation system or screening, once installed, shall be properly maintained. A plan shall be provided to the town for the maintenance of the approved plan denominating the corporation or partnership entity that shall be responsible for maintenance. That should the entity fail to maintain the improvements, the town shall have the authority either to sue to secure injunctive relief, or to enter the premises and perform the repair, charging the land with a lien for the work performed.
(Ord. 01-01, passed 1-22-01; Am. Ord. 02-12, passed 10-14-02; Am. Ord. 21-10, passed 6-15-21)