The interpretation, application and administration of the specific yard requirements established in this Chapter shall be subject to the following general provisions:
(a) Corner Lots. When a lot is located at the intersection of two (2) or more streets, the requirements for a front yard shall apply as to each part abutting a street.
(b) Front Yard Exception. In "R-2", "R-3" or "R-4" Districts, when fifty percent (50%) or more of the developed frontage in one (1) block on one (1) side of the street has front yards that are greater or less than the minimum front yard required, any building to be erected thereon shall not project beyond the average of the existing front yards, except that a minimum front yard of fifteen (15) feet shall be maintained in all instances.
(c) Architectural Projections. Cornices, eaves, sills, canopies or similar architectural projections may project into required side yards no more than thirty (30) inches. Bay windows, chimneys and open structures such as porches and balconies shall be considered a part of the building to which attached and shall not project into the required minimum front, side or rear yard.
(d) Existing Plats with Preliminary or Final Approval. Lots existing before, and plats which have received preliminary or final approval prior to, the date of the adoption of this Zoning Code shall be excepted from the side yard requirements of this Chapter if a minimum six (6) foot side yard is observed in any case.
(e) Driveways. In all Residential Districts (R1 – RM), driveways shall be a minimum of five (5) feet from the side and rear property lines.
(f) Setbacks from Public Watercourses and Drainage Ditches. No building or structure shall be permitted closer than fifteen (15) feet from a public watercourse or drainage ditch as measured from the top of the slope.
(Ord. 27-2016. Passed 3-1-16.)
(g) Accessory Uses; Off-Street Parking; Material Storage in Front Yard. No accessory use or structure, off-street parking facility or material or equipment storage shall be located in the required front yard without the approval of the Board of Zoning Appeals. (Ord. 103-2007. Passed 7-10-07.)
(h) Parking of Disabled Vehicles. The parking of a disabled vehicle within the corporate limits for a period of more than seven (7) days shall be prohibited, except where such vehicle is stored in an enclosed garage or other accessory building, provided there is no business conducted while such vehicle is stored or parked. Those who operate an automobile repair business shall not permit vehicles to remain outside a building more than thirty (30) days. Extended term parking facilities for automobile repair businesses shall be enclosed with a six (6) foot high solid fence or screening. (Ord. 33-2009. Passed 3-3-09.)