(A) Definitions. For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions apply unless the context clearly indicates or requires a different meaning.
PEDESTRIAN SIGHT TRIANGLE. The area of visibility to allow for the safe passage of a pedestrian.
SIGHT TRIANGLE. The area of visibility required on a corner to allow for the safe operation of vehicles, trains, pedestrians, and cyclists in the proximity of intersecting streets, rail lines, sidewalks, and bicycle paths.
SIGNALIZED INTERSECTION. An intersection with traffic controlled by an automated traffic signal.
STOP-CONTROLLED INTERSECTION. An intersection with traffic control stop signs. The intersections of alleys, private roads, and driveways are considered STOP-CONTROLLED INTERSECTIONS for the purpose of sight triangle requirements.
UNCONTROLLED INTERSECTION. An intersection with no traffic control signs including driveways.
YIELD CONTROLLED INTERSECTION. An intersection with traffic control yield signs.
(B) Restrictions.
(1) No obstructions to vision shall be allowed within the applicable sight triangle(s). Any object shall be deemed as an obstruction if it is located within any applicable sight triangle and the object is between two and one-half feet and ten feet above the edge of the roadway except in the C-1 Zoning District where the Public Works Director may waive these requirements.
(2) When more than one sight triangle applies to the same corner, all applicable sight triangle requirements must be satisfied.
(3) Setback requirements found elsewhere in this code shall not be decreased by this section.
(C) Point of measurement. All distance herein shall be measured from the curb or, where there is no curb, from the end of the pavement or gravel, unless otherwise specified.
(D) Uncontrolled intersections. Each uncontrolled intersection shall have a sight triangle of 70 feet on each leg except the intersection of two alleys may have a sight triangle of 25 feet on each leg.
(E) Stop-controlled intersections. Each stop-controlled intersection shall have a sight triangle based on the speed limits of the adjoining accessways. These distances are shown in the table in division (H)(1) below.
(F) Yield-controlled intersections. Each yield-controlled intersection shall have a sight triangle of 70 feet on each leg.
(G) Signalized intersections. Signalized intersections should be considered as stop-controlled for the purpose of sight triangle requirements.
(H) Pedestrian sight triangle.
(1) At intersecting sidewalks or bicycle paths, and at any intersection of a sidewalk or bicycle path with a street, alley, or driveway, a ten-foot pedestrian sight triangle shall be maintained. Pedestrian sight triangle legs are to be measured from the intersecting edges of sidewalks or bicycle paths, and the paved or unpaved edge of a street, alley, or driveway.
Operating Speed (mph) | 25 | 30 | 35 | 40 | 45 | 50 | |
Distance (feet) | Residential | 300 | 375 | 470 | 580 | 700 | 840 |
Commercial/Industrial | 490 | 645 | 820 | 1,020 | 1,340 | 1,710 | |
(2) Stop-controlled intersections shall be measured from 20 feet back of the intersecting street (curb line or edge of pavement) on the centerline of the drive lane to centerline of the drive lane in either direction.
(3) Modifications to these requirements may be made base on the current standards of the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO).
(Ord. passed 2-3-2011, § 2.26.080; Ord. passed 2-16-2017)