The general definition of YARDS as set forth in § 153.004 states that yards are unoccupied and unobstructed by a structure or portion of a structure
from 30 inches above the finished grade level of the ground upward. However, the general definition shall be construed subject to the following exceptions and interpretations:
(A) Those objects which are excluded from the definition of a STRUCTURE under § 153.004 above shall not be subject to regulation under interpretation of the definition of YARD.
(B) Steps and open porches (without roofs) shall be allowed in any required yard.
(C) Screening walls and fences over 30 inches in height that substantially impede vision may be permitted in a required yard as a special exception, however, screening walls and fences not over seven feet in height are permitted outright in side and rear yards.
(D) Eaves, cornices, gutters, and other minor architectural features projecting less than 18 inches from the main portion of a building shall be allowed to project into any yard.
(E) In GC, LI, and BI districts, structures and devices incidental to servicing, and roofs over such structures and devices are permitted within required front yards, provided that they do not constitute a substantial impediment to visibility across such yards which would contribute to the creation of traffic hazards, and further provided that servicing operations in connection therewith can be conducted so as not to interfere with public use of adjacent sidewalks or public streets.
(F) Retaining walls in excess of 30 inches in height may be permitted as a special exception in any yard; however, retaining walls that do not project more than 30 inches above the grade level at the property lines of adjoining lots are permitted outright.
(G) Signs are permitted to encroach upon required yards in certain instances as set forth in §§ 153.140et seq.
(H) Screening between commercial or industrial uses and lots zoned residentially, as required by this chapter.
(I) Apparatus needed for the operation of active and passive solar energy systems, including but not limited to overhangs, movable insulating walls and roofs, the attached solar collectors, reflectors, and piping.
(Ord. passed - - )