CHAPTER 13.78
PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT

SECTION:

13.78.010: Scope Of Approval

13.78.020: Purpose

13.78.030: Planned Unit Development Defined

13.78.040: Submission, Review And Approval; Site Plan And Conditional Use Permit

13.78.050: Minimum Area

13.78.060: Rezone Required When

13.78.070: Development Ownership

13.78.080: Effect On Adjacent Properties

13.78.090: Preservation Of Open Space

13.78.100: Landscaping, Fencing And Screening Requirements

13.78.110: Signs And Lighting

13.78.120: Construction Limitations

13.78.130: Scope Of Planning Commission Action

13.78.010: SCOPE OF APPROVAL:

Provision of a planned unit development by this chapter in no way guarantees a property owner the right to exercise the provisions of the planned unit development. Planned unit developments may be approved by the planning commission as a conditional use only if, in its judgment, the proposed planned unit development fully meets the intent and purpose, and requirements of the land use ordinance and the general plan. (Ord. 2014-06, 5-1-2014)

13.78.020: PURPOSE:

   A.   The purpose of planned unit development is to permit flexibility in land use, allow diversification in the interrelationships of various uses and structures with their sites and thus offer an alternative to conventional development. The application of planned unit development concepts is intended to encourage unique neighborhoods, high quality housing, exceptional design, additional open space, and facilities compatible with the present living environment in the city. Ensuring compliance with the purpose of this section protects the health, safety and public welfare of the future inhabitants of, or visitors to, the planned unit development. At the same time, securing the advantages of imaginative site planning for residential, commercial development or combinations thereof, as well as maximizing the energy utilization efficiency of the project. The objective is to preserve existing greenery and significant trees on site. The planned unit development process must create unique benefits for both the property owner and the city even though it does not allow additional density. Applicants must justify to the planning commission why the project would be better for the community than a project developed as the underlying zoning would normally allow. Development under the planned unit development process is a privilege that must be earned by the developer, not a right that must be granted by the planning commission.

   B.   Through the flexibility of the planned unit development regulations, the city seeks to achieve the following specific objectives:

      1.   The stabilization and preservation of the existing or planned land uses in abutting areas and surrounding residential neighborhoods;

      2.   Preservation and enhancement of desirable site characteristics such as natural topography, vegetation and geologic features, and the prevention of soil erosion;

      3.   Preservation of buildings which are architecturally or historically significant or contribute to the character of the city;

      4.   Maximizing and preserving vegetation and open space and/or other special development amenities to provide light, air and privacy, to buffer abutting properties and to provide active and passive recreation opportunities for residents of the planned development and/or the community;

      5.   Minimize significant through traffic impacts on adjacent residential neighborhoods;

      6.   Provide an appropriate transition or buffering between uses of differing intensities both on site and off site; and

      7.   Provide safe and convenient vehicle and pedestrian connections between adjacent uses. (Ord. 2014-06, 5-1-2014)