A developer may request, under the procedures established in chapter 1191 for Conditional Use applications, that a reduction in minimum lot sizes for residential development in the "R-1", "R-1A", "R-2" or "R-2A" residential districts be approved under the Cluster Option. The following criteria shall be used in considering application for development under the Cluster Option:
(a) The use of the land in the site is enhanced by the use of the Cluster Option in such a way as to provide greater recognition of the natural environment and its limitations, including the preservation of historically, archeologically or environmentally sensitive features, than would be likely under conventional zoning regulations.
(b) The developer has demonstrated efforts to reduce the servicing costs in the proposed development by lessening the amount of roads and utility lines, including sanitary sewer and water lines, in a manner consistent with good site design principles.
(c) Land is set aside for common open space, usable for active or passive recreation purposes, and is so placed within the development to provide maximum possible accessibility to each dwelling unit.
(d) In addition to the criteria stated above, the application shall meet the following minimum requirements:
(1) A minimum of seventy-five percent (75%) of the site area which has been released through the reduction in lot sizes must be provided as common open space. In any event, a minimum of twenty percent (20%) of the total site area must be provided as common open space and no less than twenty-five percent (25%) of the total common open space area shall be suitable for intensive use as active play area.
(2) In no case will a developer be permitted to obtain more lots through the Cluster Option than would have been possible through conventional zoning district regulations. The final result shall not involve an increase in the density of the site.
(3) Minimum lot sizes shall not be reduced by more than twenty-five (25) percent of that which would have been required through conventional zoning district regulations.
(4) Minimum side and rear yard requirements shall not be reduced by more than ten (10) percent of that which would have been required through conventional zoning district regulations.
(5) For the purpose of ownership, maintenance and preservation of common open space, the developer shall establish a Home Owners Association in accordance with Section 1185.20 of this chapter.
(e) When several dwelling units are proposed to be erected under common ownership on a single tract containing one (1) acre or more, flexibility of the location of buildings may be permitted without adhering strictly to the yard requirements for single lots. However, there shall be similar provisions for adequate light, air and circulation between all buildings. No reduction in common open space or active play area shall be permitted without the approval of the Planning and Zoning Commission pursuant to procedures required by this section.
(Ord. 2016-11. Passed 4-12-16.)