(A) The following standards are optional but encouraged. They provide the subdivider the opportunity to achieve density bonuses for preserving natural areas and providing community open space.
(B) The following types of conservation areas shall be recognized:
(1) Primary conservation areas include unique environmental features such as woodlands, riparian corridors, floodplain, areas with demonstrated animal habitat, and other such areas.
(2) Secondary conservation areas include open spaces which are mostly flat grassy areas.
(C) The petitioner shall propose the delineation of primary or secondary conservation areas on the preliminary plat. The Plan Commission will make the final determination whether an area is considered a primary or secondary conservation area.
(D) Required lawn areas, landscaped medians, bufferyards, and landscape cul-de-sac islands shall not be considered conservation areas.
(E) The subdivider must reserve at least 10% of the total area of the plat as a conservation easement in order to achieve the following incentives:
(1) For primary conservation areas, the subdivider may reduce the lot area, width and setbacks of the district utilizing the following formula: (percent of plat area conserved) + 6% = total percent lot area, width and setbacks may be reduced
(2) For secondary conservation areas, the subdivider may reduce the lot standards of the district utilizing the following formula: (percent of plat area conserved) + 3% = total percent lot area, width and setbacks may be reduced
(3) The maximum reduction in lot standards may not exceed 35%.
(4) The minimum distance permitted between primary structures is ten feet.
(F) The conservation easement shall be shown on the plat and labeled as such.
(G) The covenants for the subdivision must include a statement indicating that no structures are permitted to be built within the conservation easement in perpetuity.
(Ord. 6405, passed 4-10-06)