(A) The purpose of this subchapter is to provide for the grouping of land parcels for development as an integrated, coordinated unit as opposed to traditional parcel by parcel, piecemeal, sporadic and unplanned approach to development. This subchapter is intended to introduce flexibility of site design and architecture for the conservation of land and open space through clustering of buildings and activities through conditional use provisions. It is further intended that planned unit developments are to be characterized by central management, integrated planning and architecture, joint or common use of parking, maintenance of open space and other similar facilities and a harmonious selection and efficient distribution of uses.
(B) Specifically, it is intended to encourage:
(1) Innovations in residential development to the end that the growing demands for housing of all economic levels may be met by greater variety in tenure, type, design and siting of dwellings and by the conservation and more efficient use of land in the developments;
(2) Higher standards of site and building design through the use of trained and experienced land planners, architects and landscape architects;
(3) More convenience in location of accessory commercial and service area;
(4) The preservation and enhancement of desirable site characteristics, such as natural topography and geologic features and the prevention of soil erosion;
(5) A creative use of land and related physical development which allows a phased and orderly transition of land from rural to urban uses;
(6) An efficient use of land resulting in smaller networks of utilities and streets, thereby lowering housing costs and public investments;
(7) A development pattern in harmony with the objectives of the city’s Comprehensive Plan;
(8) A more desirable environment than would be possible through the strict application of zoning and subdivision regulations of the city;
(9) To give the landowner and developer reasonable assurance of ultimate approval before expending complete design monies while providing city officials with assurances that the project will retain the character envisioned at the time of concurrence; and
(10) To allow variation from the provisions of this chapter, including setbacks, height, lot area, width and depth, yards and the like.
(Prior Code, § 1120.01)