§ 154.003-02 DEFINITIONS.

Words used in the “present tense” shall include the “future tense”.Words used in the “singular” shall include the “plural” and words used in the “plural” shall include the “singular”. The words “shall” and “will” are always mandatory. The words “should” and “may” indicate optional. The word “lot” includes the words “plot”, “tract” and/or “parcel”. The word “building” includes the word “structure”. The words “used” or “occupied”, as applied to any land, or building, shall be construed to include the words “intended”, “arranged” or “designated to be “used” or “occupied”. The word “person” includes a “firm”, “association”, “organization”, “partnership”, “trust”, “company”, “corporation” and/or “individual”. The words “residential property” shall apply to land zoned for residential use and to other land occupied by residential structures. The words “a map”, “zoning map” or “Surry County Zoning Map” shall mean the Zoning Map of Surry County, North Carolina. The words “development ordinance” or “Surry County Zoning Ordinance” shall mean the Development Ordinance of Surry County, North Carolina. The words “Surry County planning area” or “planning area” shall mean the area within which Surry County exercises zoning authority. The term “Board of Commissioners” or “Governing Body” shall always indicate the Board of County Commissioners of Surry County, North Carolina. The term “County Manager” shall always indicate the County Manager of Surry County, North Carolina. The term “Planning Board” shall always indicate the Surry County Planning Board of Surry County, North Carolina. The term “Board of Adjustment” shall always indicate the Surry County Board of Adjustment.

ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT. A secondary dwelling unit established in conjunction with and clearly subordinate to a primary dwelling unit, whether a part of the same structure as the primary dwelling unit or a detached dwelling unit on the same lot.

ACCESSORY STRUCTURE. See STRUCTURE, ACCESSORY.

ACCESSORY USE. See USE, ACCESSORY.

ACCOUNTING, AUDITING and BOOKKEEPING. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing services such as auditing of accounting records, designing accounting systems, preparing financial statements, developing budgets, preparing tax returns, processing payrolls, bookkeeping, and billing.

ADMINISTRATIVE DECISION. Decisions made in the implementation, administration, or enforcement of development regulations that involve the determination of facts and the application of objective standards set forth in G.S. Ch. 160D or local government development regulations. These are sometimes referred to as ministerial decisions or administrative determinations.

ADMINISTRATIVE HEARING. A proceeding to gather facts needed to make an administrative decision.

ADULT ESTABLISHMENT. Any structure or use of land which meets the definition of adult establishment as outlined in G.S. § 14-202.10. (Licensed health massage/body work therapists shall not be considered an adult massage business.) See § 154.008 for special requirements.

ADULT LIVE ENTERTAINMENT. Any performance of or involving the actual presence of real people which exhibits specified anatomical areas as defined in the provisions of this section, as hereinafter set forth.

ADULT LIVE ENTERTAINMENT BUSINESS. Any establishment or business wherein adult live entertainment is shown for observation by patrons.

ADVERTISING AGENCY. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in creating advertising campaigns and placing such advertising in periodicals, newspapers, radio and television or other media. These establishments are organized to provide a full range of services (i.e., through in-house capabilities or subcontracting), including advice, creative services, account management, production of advertising material, media planning and buying (i.e., placing advertising).

AGRICULTURAL LAND. Any parcel of land which is used in the raising of agricultural, dairy or forest products, livestock, poultry or fur-bearing animals.

AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, CROP. The use of land for the primary purpose of raising and harvesting row, field or tree crops on a commercial basis on a bona fide farm. The growing and sale of agricultural crops on the premises shall constitute AGRICULTURAL CROP PRODUCTION.

AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION, LIVESTOCK. The use of land for the primary purpose of raising animals or producing animal products, such as eggs or dairy products, on a commercial basis on a bona fide farm, including grazing, ranching and dairy farming.

AGRICULTURE CULTURAL CENTER. A facility established for the purpose of educating the public about agricultural activities and/or the heritage and culture of agricultural activities. In addition, this definition shall also include a museum dedicated only to agriculture themes and living historic farm sites/properties.

AGRITAINMENT. Events and activities that allow for recreation, entertainment and tourism in conjunction with agriculture support and services directly associated with on-going agricultural activities on-site that are for-profit events and activities include the following: hay rides, corn mazes, hay mazes, petting zoos (farm animals only), living historical farms, farm tours (for profit) and agricultural festivals.

AGRITOURISM. Farm-related enterprises that operate for the enjoyment and education of the public which bring together tourism and agriculture. Enterprises include those that are for-profit and those that are provided free of charge to the public.

AIRPORT; ELKIN MUNICIPAL AIRPORT. The following definitions apply specifically to the Elkin Municipal Airport Overlay District.

(a) AIRPORT ELEVATION. The highest point of an airport’s usable landing area measured in feet from sea level. The Elkin Municipal Airport is 1,068 feet above sea level.

(b) APPROACH SURFACE. A surface longitudinally centered on the extended runway centerline, extending outward and upward from the end of the primary surface and at the same slope as the approach zone height limitation slope set forth in the overlay district regulations. In the plan, the perimeter of the approach surface coincides with the perimeter of the approach zone.

(d) CONICAL SURFACE. A surface extending outward and upward from the periphery of the horizontal surface at a slope of 20:1 for a horizontal distance of 4,000 feet.

(e) HORIZONTAL SURFACE. A horizontal plane 100 feet above the established airport elevation, the perimeter of which, in plan, coincides with the perimeter of the horizontal zone.

(f) LARGER THAN UTILITY RUNWAY. A runway that is constructed for and intended to be used by propeller driven aircraft of greater than 12,500 pounds maximum gross weight and jet powered aircraft.

(g) NON-PRECISION INSTRUMENT RUNWAY. A runway having an existing instrument approach procedure utilizing air navigation facilities with only horizontal guidance or area type navigation equipment, for which a straight-in non-precision instrument approach procedure has been approved or planned.

(h) PRECISION INSTRUMENT RUNWAY. A runway having an existing or planned instrument approach procedure utilizing an instrument landing system (ILS) or a precision approach radar (PAR). It also means a runway for which a precision approach system is planned and is so indicated on an approved airport layout plan or any other planning document.

(i) PRIMARY SURFACE. A surface longitudinally centered on a runway. When the runway has a specially prepared hard surface, the PRIMARY SURFACE extends 200 feet beyond each end of that runway; for military or planned hard surface, the PRIMARY SURFACE ends at each end of that runway. The width of the PRIMARY SURFACE is set forth in the overlay district regulations. The elevation of any point on the primary surface is the same as the elevation of the nearest point on the runway centerline.

(j) TRANSITIONAL SURFACES. These surfaces extend outward at 90-degree angles to the runway centerline and the runway centerline extended at a slope of seven feet horizontally for each foot vertically from the sides of the primary and approach surfaces to where they intersect the horizontal and conical surfaces. TRANSITIONAL SURFACES for those portions of the precision approach surfaces, which project through and beyond the limits of the conical surface, extend 5,000 feet measured horizontally from the edge of the approach surface and at 90-degree angles to the extended runway centerline.

AIRPORT; MOUNT AIRY/SURRY COUNTY AIRPORT OVERLAY DISTRICT. The following definitions apply to the Mount Airy/Surry County Airport Overlay District.

(a) AIRPORT ELEVATION. The highest point of an airport’s useable landing area measured in feet above mean sea level (MSL). The Mount Airy/Surry County Airport elevation equals 1,248 MSL.

(c) APPROACH, TRANSITIONAL, HORIZONTAL, CONICAL AND HAZARDOUS TERRAIN ZONES. These zones are set forth in the overlay district regulations.

(d) AWOS CRITICAL AREA. The land area encompassed by a 500-foot radius surrounding an existing Automated Weather Observing Station (AWOS), located on the southwest portion of the airport property at or near the following coordinates as of February 2018, subject to amendment: Longitude: 80 degrees, 33 minutes, 17.43 seconds W; Latitude: 36 degrees, 27 minutes, 24.26 seconds N.

(e) CONICAL SURFACE. A surface extending outward and upward from the periphery of the horizontal surface at a slope of 20:1 for a horizontal distance of 4,000 feet.

(f) HAZARD TO NAVIGATION. An obstruction determined to have a substantial adverse effect on the safety and efficient utilization of the navigable airspace.

(g) HEIGHT. For the purpose of determining the height limits in the airport height restrictive area, the datum shall be mean sea level elevation unless otherwise specified.

(h) HORIZONTAL SURFACE. A horizontal plane 150 feet above the established airport elevation, the perimeter of which in plan coincides with the perimeter of the horizontal zone.

(i) MSL. Mean sea level.

(j) NON-CONFORMING USE (AIRPORT). Any pre-existing structure, object of natural growth, or use of land which is inconsistent with the provisions of this chapter or amendment thereto.

(k) NON-PRECISION APPROACH ZONE. The inner edge of this approach zone coincides with the width of the primary surface and is 500 feet wide. The approach zone expands outward uniformly to a width of 3,500 feet, at a horizontal distance of 10,000 feet from the primary surface. Its centerline is the continuation of the centerline of the runway.

(l) NON-PRECISION INSTRUMENT RUNWAY. A runway having an existing instrument approach procedure utilizing air navigation facilities with only horizontal guidance or area type navigation equipment for which a straight-in non-precision instrument approach procedure has been planned or approved.

(m) OBSTRUCTION. Any structure, growth or other object, including a mobile object, which exceeds a limited height set forth in the overlay district regulations.

(n) PRIMARY SURFACE. A surface longitudinally centered on a runway. The PRIMARY SURFACE extends 200 feet beyond each end of that runway. The elevation of any point on the PRIMARY SURFACE is the same as the elevation of the nearest point on the runway centerline. The width of the PRIMARY SURFACE is 500 feet.

(o) RUNWAY. A defined area on an airport prepared for landing and takeoff of aircraft along its length.

(p) STRUCTURE. An object, including a mobile object, constructed, or installed by humans, including, but not limited to buildings, towers, cranes, smokestacks, earth formation and overhead transmission lines.

(q) TRANSITION SURFACES. These surfaces extend outward at right angles (90-degree angles) to the runway centerline and extend at a slope of seven feet horizontally for each foot vertically from the sides of the primary and approach surfaces to where they intersect the horizontal and conical surfaces.

(r) TRANSITIONAL ZONES. The transitional zones are the area beneath the transitional surfaces.

(s) TREE. Any object of natural growth.

(t) UTILITY RUNWAY. A runway that is constructed for and intended to be used by propeller aircraft of 12,500 pounds maximum gross weight and less.

(u) VISUAL APPROACH ZONE. The inner edge approach zone coincides with the width of the primary surface and is 500 feet wide. The approach zone expands outward uniformly to a width of 1,500 feet at a horizontal distance of 5,000 feet from the primary surface. Its centerline is the continuation of the centerline of the runway.

(v) VISUAL RUNWAY. A runway intended solely for the operation of aircraft using visual approach procedures.

AIRPORT, PUBLIC. Landing fields, aircraft parking or service facilities, passenger or baggage terminals, or related facilities for operation, service, fueling, repair, storage, charter, or sales or rental of aircraft, operated by an airport authority or other corporation.

AIRSTRIP, PRIVATE. A landing field for the private use of the property owner, including a small hangar area for aircraft used by the owner or lessee at the airstrip.

ALLEY. A vehicular way used for providing service access along rear or side property lines of lots. Residential ALLEYS will generally remain private.

AMBULANCE SERVICE/RESCUE SQUAD. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing transportation of patients by ground or air, along with medical care. These services are often provided during a medical emergency but are not restricted to emergencies. The vehicles are equipped with lifesaving equipment operated by medically trained personnel.

AMORTIZATION. The process of providing for a timed extinction of a use, which is not in compliance with this chapter.

AMUSEMENT PARK. This industry comprises establishments, known as amusement or theme parks, primarily engaged in operating a variety of attractions, such as mechanical rides, water rides, games, shows, theme exhibits, refreshment stands and picnic grounds. These establishments may lease space to others on a concession basis.

ANIMAL HOSPITAL/VETERINARY CLINIC. Any facility used for the purpose of giving licensed medical treatment to animals or pets and any other customarily incidental treatment of the animals, such as grooming, boarding or selling of pet supplies.

ANTIQUE SHOPS. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing used merchandise, antiques and secondhand goods (except motor vehicles such as automobiles, RVs, motorcycles and boats; motor vehicle parts; tires; and mobile homes).

APARTMENT. A room or suite of rooms in a multi-unit residential building, generally rented by the occupant, which provides complete independent living facilities for one or more persons, including permanent provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation in each separate unit.

APPAREL AND FOOTWEAR. The apparel industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing new clothing. The footwear industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing all types of new footwear (except hosiery and specialty sports footwear, such as golf shoes, bowling shoes and spiked shoes). Establishments primarily engaged in retailing new tennis shoes or sneakers are included in this industry.

APPEAL. An action requesting reversal or modification of a decision.

APPEAL, ADMINISTRATIVE. An action requesting reversal or modification of an administrative decision made in the application of these regulations.

APPLIANCES. This U.S. industry comprises establishments known as appliance stores primarily engaged in retailing an array of new household appliances such as refrigerators, dishwashers, ovens, irons, coffee makers, hair dryers, electric razors, room air-conditioners, microwave ovens, sewing machines and vacuum cleaners; or engaged in retailing new appliances in combination with appliance repair services.

AQUARIUM. An establishment where aquatic collections of living organisms are kept and exhibited.

ARCADES. Establishments that primarily offer amusements such as video games, pinball machines and other similar games, but not including electronic gaming operations or gambling of any type.

ARCHITECTS. Persons licensed to practice architecture in the State of North Carolina.

AREA OF SHALLOW FLOODING. A designated AO or VO Zone on a community’s Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM) with base flood depths from one to three feet where a clearly defined channel does not exist, where the path of the flood is unpredictable and indeterminate, and where the velocity flow may be evident.

AREA OF SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD. The land in the floodplain within a community subject to a 1% or greater chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year, as determined in §§ 154.017.

ARMED FORCES ESTABLISHMENTS, INCLUDING ARMORIES. This industry comprises government establishments of the armed forces, including the National Guard, primarily engaged in national security and related activities.

ART GALLERIES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing original and limited-edition art works. Included in this industry are establishments primarily engaged in displaying works of art for retail sale in ART GALLERIES.

ART SUPPLIES. Establishments engaged in retail sales of arts and crafts supplies.

ARTS AND GRAPHICS SERVICES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in planning, designing and managing the production of visual communication in order to convey specific messages or concepts, clarify complex information or project visual identities. These services can include the design of printed materials, packaging, advertising, signage systems and corporate identification (logos). This industry also includes commercial artists engaged exclusively in generating drawings and illustrations requiring technical accuracy or interpretative skills.

ASPHALT PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING. A facility preparing asphalt and/or concrete mixtures for street and driveway paving, including contractors engaged in asphalt and/or cement work.

AUCTION HOUSE. A structure or enclosure where goods are sold by auction.

AUDITORIUMS. An open, partially enclosed or fully enclosed facility used or intended to be used primarily for spectator sports, entertainment events, expositions and other public gatherings. Typical uses include convention facilities, exhibition halls and amphitheaters.

AUDITORS and BOOKKEEPERS. See accounting, auditing and bookkeeping.

AUTOMATIC TELLER MACHINE. A type of banking and financial services with automated or self-service banking features with no staff or personnel provided.

AUTOMOBILE DETAILING. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in cleaning, washing and/or waxing automotive vehicles such as passenger cars, trucks, vans and trailers.

AUTOMOBILE MANUFACTURING. These establishments are primarily engaged in manufacturing:

(a) Complete automobiles and light duty motor vehicles (i.e., body and chassis or unibody); or

(b) Chassis only.

AUTOMOBILE SALVAGE YARD. Any establishment which is maintained, used or operated for storing, keeping, buying and/or selling two or more wrecked, junked, scrapped, ruined, dismantled or inoperable motor vehicles, regardless of the length of time which individual motor vehicles are stored or kept at said establishment. Parts and components of the vehicles in an AUTOMOBILE SALVAGE YARD may be sold off as replacement parts to willing customers. AUTOMOBILE SALVAGE YARDS shall not engage in the recycling or crushing of vehicles (as defined in this definition). Crushing and compacting shall include any activity which materially reduces the dimensions or size of the vehicle by application of any force, dropping, or slinging the vehicle. No scrap tires shall be stored at the yard longer than 30 days.

AUTOMOBILE, TRUCK AND MOTORCYCLE SALES. An establishment primarily engaged in the retail sale of new and used automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, motor scooters, mopeds, all-terrain vehicles, snowmobiles, go-carts, utility trailers and similar items. Shall include any outdoor area where the above-mentioned are stored throughout the day and the night and are held for the purpose of sale or lease as an entire or complete unit. The sale of wrecked, junked, scrapped, ruined, dismantled or inoperable motor vehicles is not included in this definition and is only permitted in an automobile salvage yard.

AUTOMOTIVE SUPPLIES.

(a) This category comprises one or more of the following:

1. Establishments known as automotive supply stores primarily engaged in retailing new, used and/or rebuilt automotive parts and accessories.

2. Automotive supply stores that are primarily engaged in both retailing automotive parts and accessories and repairing automobiles; and

3. Establishments primarily engaged in retailing and installing automotive accessories.

(b) This category also comprises establishments primarily engaged in wholesaling motor vehicle supplies, accessories, tools and equipment; and new motor vehicle parts (except new tires and tubes).

BAIT AND TACKLE SALES. This category is comprised primarily of establishments that sell fishing supplies.

BAKERIES. This category is comprised of establishments that primarily sell baked goods made on the premises.

BANKS AND FINANCE COMPANIES. A facility engaged in deposit banking or extending credit in the form of loans.

BARBER AND BEAUTY SHOPS. This category comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing hair, nail and skin services such as haircuts, manicures, facials and the like. Procedures that alter skin permanently such as application of permanent makeup or tattoos are not included in this category.

BASE FLOOD. A flood having a 1% chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year.

BASE FLOOD ELEVATION (BFE). A determination as published in the flood insurance study of the water surface elevations of the base flood. When the BFE has not been provided in a special flood hazard area, it may be obtained from engineering studies available from a federal, state or other source using FEMA approved engineering methodologies. This elevation, when combined with the freeboard, establishes the regulatory flood protection elevation.

BASEBALL HITTING RANGES. These establishments are primarily engaged in providing recreational facilities for customers who practice hitting baseballs with the use of automated pitching machines.

BASEMENT. The lowest level or story which has its floor sub-grade on all sides.

BED AND BREAKFAST. An owner-occupied or manager-occupied residential facility providing rooms for overnight lodging or lodging and meals.

BEDDING MANUFACTURING. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing innerspring, box spring and non-innerspring mattresses, including mattresses for waterbeds.

BICYCLE REPAIR. This category comprises establishments primarily engaged in repairing and servicing bicycles without retailing new bicycles.

BICYCLE SALES AND SERVICE. This category comprises establishments primarily engaged in selling new or used bicycles.

BILLBOARD. An off-premises advertising sign, having a display area of 50 square feet or greater, located within view of, but not upon, a public right-of-way; and situated to be observed safely by motorists traveling on the public road.

BILLIARD OR POOL HALLS. These establishments are primarily engaged in providing space and equipment for patrons to play billiards or pool.

BLACKSMITH OPERATIONS. These establishments are primarily engaged in manually forging iron or black metal, as opposed to tin or white metal on a small scale (and as opposed to automated or mass forging of the above listed metals).

BLUEPRINTS AND DRAFTING SUPPLIES. These establishments are primarily engaged in selling instruments and/or supplies for draftspeople and blueprint services.

BOAT WORKS MANUFACTURING. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in building boats. “Boats” are defined as watercraft not built in shipyards and typically of the type suitable or intended for personal use.

BONA FIDE FARM. Crop lands, timber lands, pasture lands, apple orchards, idle or other farmlands as well as any farmhouses, barns, poultry houses, and tenant houses for workers, as long as such houses for workers shall be in the same ownership as the farm and located on the farm.

BOOK AND STATIONARY STORES. These establishments are primarily engaged in retailing books and/or stationary.

BOTANICAL GARDENS. These establishments are primarily engaged in the preservation and exhibition of live plant displays.

BOTTLING PLANTS. These establishments are primarily engaged in bottling beverages. Processes may involve:

(a) Combining purchased syrup or flavoring with other liquids; and/or

(b) Carbonating beverages.

BOWLING ALLEY. These establishments primarily operate bowling centers and often provide food and beverage services for patrons.

BREAKAWAY WALL. A wall that is not part of the structural support of the building and is intended through its design and construction to collapse under specific lateral loading forces without causing damage to the elevated portion of the building or the supporting foundation system. A BREAKAWAY WALL shall have a design safe loading resistance of not less than ten and no more than 20 pounds per square foot. A wall with loading resistance of more than 20 pounds per square foot requires a professional engineer or architect’s certificate.

BRICK, TILE AND POTTERY YARDS. These establishments are primarily engaged in storage and distribution of brick, tile and pottery, without manufacture.

BUFFER ZONE. The strip of land adjacent to a lake or natural watercourse.

BUFFERS. The portion of a yard where special plantings may be required by this chapter to separate and partially screen two adjacent land uses that are ordinarily incompatible by virtue of their use.

BUILDABLE AREA. The area of a zoning lot remaining after the minimum setback requirements of this chapter have been satisfied.

BUILDING. See also STRUCTURE. Any structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or occupancy.

BUILDING ADDITION. An extension or increase in the floor area or height of a building or structure.

BUILDING CLEANING AND MAINTENANCE SERVICES. These establishments primarily clean and maintain building interiors.

BUILDING HEIGHT or HEIGHT, BUILDING. The vertical distance from the average elevation at the finished grade of all the sides of a building, measured at the midpoint of each side to the highest point of a flat roof, or to the deck line of a mansard roof, or the average height level between eaves and ridges for gable, hip, gambrel and pitch roofs.

BUILDING, PRINCIPAL. The building in which the principal use of the zoning lot is conducted.

BUILDING SUPPLIES AND MATERIALS. An establishment engaged in selling lumber and a general line of building materials and hardware to the public.

BUS GARAGES. These establishments primarily provide parking space for buses.

BUS TERMINAL. A facility for the storage, maintenance and dispatch of buses or taxis, and associated customer ticketing and waiting areas.

BUSINESS OFFICES. An establishment primarily engaged in providing engineering, architectural and surveying services; accounting, auditing and bookkeeping services; public relations services; legal services; real estate services; the services of insurance agents, brokers and carriers; the services of security and commodity brokers; and the services of bank holding companies.

CABINET SHOPS. These establishments primarily retail specialized lines of kitchen and bath cabinets and countertops to be installed.

CAMERA AND PHOTOGRAPHY SUPPLIES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in either retailing new cameras, photographic equipment and photographic supplies; or in retailing new cameras and photographic equipment in combination with activities such as repair services and film developing.

CAMPGROUNDS AND RECREATIONAL VEHICLE PARKS. A contiguous site or tract of land under unified ownership intended and designed to accommodate recreational vehicles or tent spaces as temporary living quarters for recreational or vacation purposes.

CANDY STORE. An establishment that primarily retails candy and other confections, nuts and popcorn that is not for immediate consumption and not made on the premises.

CANVAS GOODS MANUFACTURING. The manufacturing of canvas and canvas-like products, such as awnings, sails, tarpaulins and tents, from purchased fabrics.

CAR WASH. A facility where motor vehicles are washed, cleaned and/or waxed by hand or with manually operated equipment or automatic machinery.

CARDBOARD CONTAINER MANUFACTURING. These establishments are primarily engaged in converting paperboard into containers without manufacturing paperboard. They may use corrugating, cutting and shaping machinery to form paperboard into containers. Products made by these establishments include boxes; corrugated sheets, pads and pallets; paper dishes; and fiber drums and reels.

CARPET MANUFACTURING. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in:

(a) Manufacturing woven, tufted and other carpets and rugs, such as art squares, floor mattings, needle punch carpeting, and door mats and mattings, from textile materials or from twisted paper, grasses, reeds, sisal, jute or rags; and/or

(b) Finishing carpets and rugs.

CARPORT. A roofed structure enclosed on not more than two sides and used for the parking of motor vehicles.

CASE GOODS MANUFACTURING. These establishments are primarily engaged in manufacturing case goods. CASE GOODS are pieces of furniture that are essentially built like a box, such as cabinets, a chest of drawers or a breakfront. These pieces are generally meant for storage, and so their construction often incorporates drawers, doors and shelves.

CEMETERY, PRIVATE. Land and facilities used for the burial of the dead, including municipal, private family, farm, church or animal cemeteries, which have not been licensed and do not meet the licensing requirements of a perpetual care cemetery under state law.

CEMETERY, PUBLIC. Land and facilities used for burial of the dead meeting the requirements of a perpetual care cemetery under state law. Such a facility includes any burial ground, mausoleum or columbarium operated by a cemetery company and meeting licensing requirements of the state.

CHEMICAL MANUFACTURING. Manufacturing based on the transformation of organic and inorganic raw materials by a chemical process and the formulation of products.

CHEMICAL STORAGE FACILITY. A building, portion of a building or exterior area adjacent to a building used for the storage of any chemically reactive products.

CHILD CARE CENTER. A day care facility in which day care is provided for 13 or more children when any child is preschool age; or 16 or more children when all children are school age.

CHILD DAY CARE (SMALL HOME). A day care operation in which day care is provided for three to five preschool-age children, plus up to three additional school-age children.

CHILDREN’S HOME. A facility engaged in the care of children who have been abandoned or given up for adoption. “Home” may include living quarters, dining areas, recreation areas, education facility, and the like.

CHURCH. A facility of a church or religious organization operated for worship and which may include religious training or study (including fellowship buildings).

CIRCUS; CARNIVAL; FAIR. This category is comprised of live performing arts productions or the organization and promotion of those and similar events such as state fairs, county fairs, agricultural fairs, concerts and festivals.

CLUBS AND LODGES. A building or land used for the activities of a private club or social organization and not adjunct to, or operated as, or in connection with, a public tavern, cafe or other place open to the public.

COFFEE HOUSE. An informal restaurant primarily offering coffee, tea and other beverages, and where light refreshments and limited menu meals may also be sold.

COIN-OPERATED LAUNDRY. These establishments are primarily engaged in:

(a) Operating facilities with coin-operated or similar self-service laundry equipment for customer use on the premises; and/or

(b) Supplying and servicing coin-operated or similar self-service laundry equipment for customer use in places of business operated by others, such as apartments and dormitories.

COLLEGE; UNIVERSITY; TECHNICAL COLLEGE. An institution of higher education offering associate, undergraduate and/or graduate degrees.

COMMON OPEN SPACE. The open space land held in common ownership by property or unit owners in a development, normally provided for in the declaration or restrictive covenants and normally in common use.

COMMUNITY CENTER. An area or facility designed to meet the demand for active recreation, including play fields, ball diamonds, parks with picnic and playground equipment, tennis courts, swimming pools, tot lots and similar uses, available to the public and under the management or control of a public agency.

COMPUTER AND DATA PROCESSING SERVICES. A category of services in which the primary service is data processing. This type of facility is primarily devoted to computers, with minimal employment required for monitoring and servicing.

CONCRETE PRODUCT FABRICATION. These establishments are primarily engaged in fabricating products made of concrete, without producing the concrete used.

CONCRETE PRODUCTION. This industry comprises establishments such as batch plants or mix plants, primarily engaged in manufacturing concrete delivered to a purchaser in a plastic and unhardened state. Ready-mix concrete manufacturing establishments may mine, quarry or purchase sand and gravel.

CONDITIONAL ZONING DISTRICT. Pursuant to G.S. §§ 160D-102(7) and 703(b), a zoning district that does not have any inherent permitted or conditional uses and corresponds with an existing general use zoning district. May also be referred to as CONDITIONAL DISTRICT in this chapter. Development activities are restricted to those specifically approved by the Board of Commissioners following a legislative public hearing. Conditions to development can be imposed if they are volunteered or consented to by the applicant.

CONDITIONAL ZONING DISTRICT SUPPLEMENT. An addendum to a zoning permit issued by the Zoning Administrator following a zoning map amendment (i.e., rezoning) to a conditional zoning district. This supplement outlines the specific uses permitted and the conditions for development within the district as dictated by the Board of Commissioners following a legislative public hearing.

CONDOMINIUM. A dwelling unit owned as a single-family home within a multiple property together with an undivided portion of ownership in areas and facilities held in common with other property owners in the development. CONDOMINIUMS may take several forms such as attached townhouses, apartments or other forms of residential structures. The common areas and structures may include underlying land, parking areas, recreation facilities, swimming pools and, in the case of an apartment house, hallways, basements, heating units and elevators.

CONSTRUCTION, START OF. After issuance of a building permit by the Inspections Department, the first placement of a structure, including a manufactured home, on a site, for which a building inspection is required. This shall include excavation; forming and bracing for concrete placement; the subsequent installation and tying of steel reinforcements for footings, piles or columns (if required); the pouring of slabs or footings; or excavation or the placements of a manufactured home on a foundation.

CONTIGUOUS AREA. Any area which abuts directly on a subject property or is separated from the subject property by a street or the right-of-way of a railroad or other utility or public service corporation.

CONTRACTOR’S OFFICE. The administrative headquarters for establishments primarily engaged in contracting for construction, renovation, demolition and other types of property development.

CONVENIENCE STORE. Any retail establishment offering for sale gasoline, diesel fuel, kerosene, automotive products, prepackaged food products, household items and/or other goods commonly associated with the same.

COOPERATIVE WINERY. A winery that is established by a group of grape growers to cater to surrounding vineyards, absent of any on-site winery. The facility is traditionally located independent of any on-site vineyard.

CORN MAZE. A recreational facility that creates a labyrinth utilizing an agricultural product such as corn to create a system of paths. Definition shall apply to HAY MAZES, as well.

CORNER LOT. See LOT, CORNER.

CORRECTIONAL FACILITY. A facility providing housing and care for individuals confined by law, operated under the authority of local, state or federal government.

COUNTRY CLUBS. Facilities offering dining and other recreational activities in a membership venue. These establishments often provide food and beverage services, equipment rental services and golf courses with associated instruction services.

CRAFT STORE. Any business establishment that sells articles of artistic quality, effect or handmade workmanship. Examples include products created from candle making, glass blowing, weaving, pottery, woodworking, sculpting, painting and other associated activities.

CREMATORIUM. A location containing properly installed, certified apparatus intended for use in the act of cremation.

CREST. The uppermost line of a mountain or chain of mountains from which the land falls away on at least two sides to a lower elevation or elevations.

CUL-DE-SAC. A local street having only one end open to traffic with the other end permanently terminated by a vehicular turnaround.

DAIRY, MEAT AND SEAFOOD MARKET. These establishments primarily retail fresh, frozen or cured meats and poultry. Delicatessen-type establishments primarily engaged in retailing fresh meat are included in this industry, as are dairy products that are not made on the premises.

DANCE HALL. A recreational establishment that primarily provides facilities for dances.

DANCE SCHOOLS. An establishment primarily engaged in offering instruction in the arts, specifically dance.

DELICATESSEN. See DAIRY, MEAT AND SEAFOOD MARKET above.

DENSITY. The ratio of dwelling units permitted on a zoning lot to the area of the zoning lot. DENSITY is expressed in this chapter as the number of units per one acre.

DEPARTMENT STORES. These establishments are primarily engaged in retailing a wide range of the following new products, with no one merchandise line predominating: apparel, furniture, appliances and home furnishings, and selected additional items such as paint, hardware, toiletries, cosmetics, photographic equipment, jewelry, toys and sporting goods. Merchandise lines are normally arranged in separate departments.

DETECTIVE AGENCY. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing investigation and detective services.

DEVELOPMENT. Any human-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including, but not limited to, buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavation or drilling operations or storage of equipment or materials.

DEVELOPMENT PERMIT. An administrative permit issued by the Development Services Department that specifies how a property may be developed based on an approved preliminary plat, approved site plan, conditional zoning, or special use permit.

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES DIRECTOR. The Director of the Surry County Development Services Department.

DEVELOPMENT SERVICES STAFF. The Zoning Administrator or appointed authorized official(s) in the Surry County Development Services Department.

DISCOTHEQUES. A club where recorded music is played for dancing.

DISCOUNT STORES. These retail establishments are primarily engaged in offering a wide range of consumer goods at a substantially lower price than department or specialty stores.

DISPOSAL. As defined in G.S. § 130A-290(a)(6), the discharge, deposit, injection, dumping, spilling, leaking or placing of any solid waste into or on any land or water so that the solid waste or any constituent part of the solid waste may enter the environment or be emitted into the air or discharged into any waters, including ground waters.

DRAG-STRIP AND RACETRACKS. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in operating racetracks. These establishments may also present and/or promote the events held in these facilities such as auto, dog and horse races.

DRINKING ESTABLISHMENTS. This industry comprises establishments known as bars, taverns, nightclubs or drinking places primarily engaged in preparing and serving alcoholic beverages for immediate consumption. These establishments may also provide limited food services.

DRUG STORES. This industry comprises establishments known as pharmacies and drug stores engaged in retailing prescription or non-prescription drugs and medicines.

DRY CLEANERS.

(a) These establishments are primarily engaged in:

1. Providing dry cleaning services (except coin-operated);

2. Providing laundering services (except coin-operated, linen or uniform supply);

3. Providing drop off and pickup sites for laundries; and

4. Providing specialty cleaning services for garments and other textile items such as fur, leather, draperies, and the like (except for carpets and upholstery).

(b) Any combination of the above is included in this definition.

DRY CLEANING PLANTS. These establishments may perform any or all the services of dry cleaners as listed above, but do not participate in retailing the services to the final consumer.

DWELLING. A building that contains one or two dwelling units used, intended, or designed to be used, rented, leased, let or hired out to be occupied for living purposes.

DWELLING, ADDITIONAL. Additional dwelling units may be constructed on lots where a density of ten-acres per dwelling unit exists. The appropriate zoning district will dictate the type of dwelling units permitted. This provides an option from subdividing lots or zoning lots for additional dwellings. However, this provision does not supersede the definition of a manufactured home park in this section. Nor does it supersede or negate the owner-occupied and family cluster provisions found in this chapter.

DWELLING, DUPLEX. A single-family dwelling that is connected on only one side by means of a common dividing structural or load bearing party wall of at least ten linear feet to another single-family dwelling.

DWELLING, MULTI-FAMILY. A detached building constructed on-site in compliance with the North Carolina State Building Code and designed for three or more dwelling units.

DWELLING, SINGLE-FAMILY (MODULAR). A dwelling unit constructed in accordance with the standards set forth in the North Carolina State Building Code and composed of components substantially assembled in a manufacturing plant and transported to the building site for final assembly on a permanent foundation.

DWELLING, SINGLE-FAMILY (ON-SITE STICK-BUILT). A detached building constructed completely on-site and in no way utilizing prefabricated sections or modules to construct the dwelling.

DWELLING UNIT. A single unit providing complete, independent living, sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation.

EASEMENT. A grant of one or more of the property rights for a specific purpose by the property owner to, or for the use by, the public or another person.

ECO-TOURISM ENTERPRISE. Tourism activities and facilities which focus on visitation and observation of our education about natural history, indigenous ecosystems, native plant or animal species, natural scenery or other features of natural environment. ECO-TOURISM ENTERPRISES may include cultural activities related to such activities or work projects that tend to conserve or safeguard the integrity of a natural feature, habitat, or ecosystem. Facilities for an ECO-TOURISM ENTERPRISE may include recreational outfitters. Eco-tourism tends to result in a minimal or positive impact on the features observed or visited or tends to produce economic benefits from conservation.

ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE AND EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING. These establishments are primarily engaged in the manufacture of electrical appliances and/or electrical equipment.

ELECTRICAL APPLIANCE SALES. These establishments are primarily engaged in the sale of household electrical appliances.

ELECTRONIC AND ELECTRICAL REPAIR. These establishments are primarily engaged in repairing and maintaining consumer electronics such as televisions, stereos, speakers, video recorders, CD players, radios and cameras without retailing new consumer electronics.

ELECTRONIC GAMING OPERATION. Any business enterprise where, as a principal use, persons use electronic machines, including but not limited to computers and gaming terminals, to conduct games, whether games of odds or chance or games of skill or dexterity, where cash, merchandise, or other items of value are redeemed or otherwise distributed, whether the value of such distribution is determined by electronic games played, by predetermined odds, or by any other method. ELECTRONIC GAMING OPERATIONS may include, but are not limited to, internet cafes, internet sweepstakes, electronic gaming machines, or cyber cafes. This definition does not include any lottery approved by the State of North Carolina.

ELEVATED BUILDING. A non-basement building which has its reference level raised above ground level by foundation walls, shear walls, posts, piers, pilings or columns.

EMPLOYMENT AGENCY. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in listing employment vacancies and in referring or placing applicants for employment. The individuals referred or placed are not employees of the employment agencies.

EMS DEPARTMENT. Surry County Emergency Services Department.

ENCROACHMENT, FLOODPLAIN. The advance or infringement of uses, fill, excavation, buildings, permanent structures or development into a floodplain, which may impede or alter the flow capacity of a floodplain.

ENFORCEMENT OFFICER/AGENCY. Such officer or board as the County Commissioners may from time to time appoint.

ENGINEER. A person licensed to practice engineering in the State of North Carolina.

ENVIRONMENTAL HEALTH. Surry County Environmental Health Department.

EQUIPMENT RENTAL. This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in renting or leasing commercial-type and industrial-type machinery and equipment. The types of establishments included in this industry group are generally involved in providing capital or investment-type equipment that clients use in their business operations. These establishments typically cater to a business clientele and do not generally operate a retail-like or store-front facility.

EROSION. The wearing away of land surface by the action of wind, water, gravity or any combination thereof.

EROSION CONTROL ACT. The North Carolina Sedimentation Pollution Control Act of 1973 and all rules and orders adopted pursuant to it and amendments (regulated by NCDEQ).

EROSION, NATURAL. The wearing away of the earth’s surface by water, wind or other natural agents under natural environmental conditions undisturbed by humans.

EVIDENTIARY HEARING. A hearing to gather competent, material, and substantial evidence to make findings for a quasi-judicial decision required by a development regulation adopted under G.S. §§ 160D-102, 160D-406 and 160D-705.

EXECUTIVE OR INSTITUTIONAL RETREAT. A facility used for professional, educational or religious conclaves, meetings, conferences or seminars and which may provide meals, housing and recreation for participants during the period of the retreat or program only. Such facilities may not be utilized by the public for meals or overnight accommodations. Housing for participants may be in lodges, dormitories, sleeping cabins (with or without bathrooms), or in such other temporary quarters as may be approved, but kitchen and dining facilities shall be in a single centrally located building or buildings.

EXISTING MANUFACTURED HOME PARK OR MANUFACTURED HOME SUBDIVISION. For the purposes of this chapter, a manufactured home park or subdivision for which the construction of facilities for servicing the lots on which the manufactured homes are to be affixed (including, at a minimum, the installation of utilities, the construction of streets and either final site grading or the pouring of concrete pads) was completed before the initial effective date of the floodplain management regulations adopted by the community.

EXPLOSIVES MANUFACTURING AND STORAGE. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing and/or storing explosives and/or explosive parts as listed in NAICS 325920.

EXTERMINATORS. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in exterminating and controlling birds, mosquitoes, rodents, termites and other insects and pests (except for crop production and forestry production). Establishments providing fumigation services are included in this industry.

FABRIC STORES. These establishments primarily retail products such as new sewing supplies, fabrics, patterns, yarns and other needlework accessories, or retail these products in combination with selling new sewing machines.

FAMILY.

(a) One or more persons related by blood, adoption or marriage, and their foster parents, or children, or stepparents, or stepchildren, living together in a single dwelling unit; or several persons 18 years or older, not exceeding four and their children or stepchildren under 18 years of age, living together in a single dwelling unit, though not all related by blood, adoption or marriage; and such domestic servants as are employed on the same premises. A FAMILY may include five or fewer foster children placed in a family foster home licensed by the State of North Carolina. The term FAMILY shall not be construed to include any group of persons living together as a fraternal, sororal, social, honorary or professional organization.

(b) For the purposes of this definition, the following persons shall be considered related by blood:

1. Any relative of the head of household or of the spouse (whether living or dead) of the head of household to the third degree of collateral consanguinity, or to any degree of lineal consanguinity, as defined in state law.

2. A parent or child by adoption, marriage or legitimization of any person (including the head of household or spouse of the head of household) described in division (b)1. above, and

3. A dependent, as defined in state law, of any person described in divisions (b)1. and (b)2. above.

FAMILY CARE HOME. A transitional housing facility with support and supervisory personnel licensed by the State of North Carolina or operated by a non-profit corporation chartered pursuant to G.S. Ch. 55A, which provides room and board, personal care and rehabilitation services in a supportive family environment for not more than three residents per bedroom in the facility, exclusive of supervisory personnel, including but not limited to, handicapped persons, older adults, foster children, abused individuals, homeless persons and those recovering from drug or alcohol abuse. This use shall include family care homes, as defined by state law. This use shall not serve primarily as an alternative to incarceration, shall not include individuals who are dangerous to others, as defined in G.S. § 122C3-(11)(b), and shall not include persons living together as a fraternal, sororal, social, honorary or professional organization.

FAMILY MEMBERS, DIRECT. Direct lineal decedents (children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren) and direct lineal ascendants (father, mother, grandfather and grandmother); and brothers, sisters, nieces and nephews.

FARM MACHINERY MANUFACTURING. These establishments are primarily engaged in manufacturing agricultural and farm machinery and equipment, as well as other turf and grounds care equipment including planting, harvesting and grass mowing equipment (except lawn and garden-type).

FARM SUPPLIES. These establishments are primarily engaged in selling farm supplies such as animal feeds, fertilizers, agricultural chemicals, pesticides, plant seeds and plant bulbs.

FARM TENANT HOUSING. A dwelling unit occupied by the family of a person employed in agriculture-related activities on the premises.

FARM/HEAVY EQUIPMENT SALES AND RENTAL. These establishments are primarily engaged in selling and/or renting specialized machinery, equipment and related parts generally used in agricultural, farm and lawn and garden activities.

FARMER’S MARKET, COMMUNITY-SCALE. A facility that is 4,999 square feet in size or smaller that offers for sale fresh agricultural products directly to the consumer in a market setting that caters to the immediate community. FARMER’S MARKETS include multiple vendors who offer homegrown produce raised by the vendor or produce bought by the vendor on consignment, for retail sale.

FARMER’S MARKET, REGIONAL-SCALE. A facility that is 5,000 square feet in size or larger that offers for sale fresh agricultural products directly to the consumer in a market setting that caters to a regional area. FARMER’S MARKETS include multiple vendors who offer homegrown produce raised by the vendor or produce bought by the vendor on consignment, for retail sale.

FEDERAL AVIATION ADMINISTRATION (FAA). Federal government organization appointed to regulate air travel.

FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION (FCC). Federal government organization appointed to regulate wireless communications.

FEDERAL STYLE. Architecture style strongly influenced by the “Adam-style” and a postcolonial successor to “Georgian-style” found in the United States ca. 1776–early 1800s. Style is symmetrical in elevation and plan, often with relatively simple brick or clapboard exterior walls and ornamentation at the entrance, such as a paneled door with fanlight and sidelights.

FERTILIZER MANUFACTURING AND STORAGE. These establishments are primarily engaged in one or more of the following:

(a) Manufacturing and/or storing nitrogenous or phosphatic fertilizer materials;

(b) Manufacturing and/or storing fertilizers from sewage or animal waste;

(c) Manufacturing and/or storing nitrogenous or phosphatic materials and mixing with other ingredients into fertilizers; and

(d) Mixing ingredients made elsewhere into fertilizers.

FIBER CEMENT BOARD. A dense, smooth-surfaced composition board composed of highly compressed fibers, designed to imitate wood or concrete construction. Varieties include Masonite.

FIBERGLASS MANUFACTURING AND STORAGE. These establishments are primarily engaged in the manufacturing or storage of fiberglass. During manufacture, very thin glass filaments are made into textile or paper products or are embedded in plastic or other substances for use as a construction or insulating material.

FIRE MARSHAL. Surry County Fire Marshal’s Office.

FIRING RANGE, INDOOR. An enclosed facility used for the discharge of firearms at targets.

FIRING RANGE, OUTDOOR. An outdoor facility used for the discharge of firearms at targets.

FLEA MARKETS (INDOOR). These indoor establishments house vendors primarily engaged in retailing merchandise (except fuel and/or food for immediate consumption) via direct sale to the customer, including used merchandise, and antiques and secondhand goods (except motor vehicles, such as automobiles; RVs; motorcycles and boats; motor vehicle parts; tires; and mobile homes).

FLOOD. A general and temporary condition of partial or complete inundation of normally dry land areas from:

(a) The overflow of inland or tidal waters; and

(b) The unusual and rapid accumulation of runoff of surface waters from any source.

FLOOD BOUNDARY AND FLOODWAY MAP (FBFM). An official map of a community, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, on which the special flood hazard areas and the floodways are delineated. This official map is a supplement to and shall be used in conjunction with the Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM).

FLOOD HAZARD BOUNDARY MAP (FHBM). An official map of a community, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency, where the boundaries of the special flood hazard areas have been defined as Zone A.

FLOOD INSURANCE. The insurance coverage provided under the National Flood Insurance Program.

FLOOD INSURANCE RATE MAP (FIRM). An official map of the community, issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA), on which both the special flood hazard areas and the risk premium zones applicable to the community are delineated.

FLOOD INSURANCE STUDY (FIS). An examination, evaluation, and determination of flood hazard areas, corresponding water surface elevations (if appropriate), flood insurance risk zones, and other flood data in a community issued by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. The FLOOD INSURANCE STUDY report includes Flood Insurance Rate Maps (FIRMs) and Flood Boundary and Floodway Maps (FBFMs), if published.

FLOOD ZONE. A geographical area shown on a flood hazard boundary map or flood insurance rate map that reflects the severity or type of flooding in the area.

FLOODPLAIN. Any land area susceptible to being inundated by water from any source.

FLOODPLAIN ADMINISTRATOR. See ZONING ADMINISTRATOR.

FLOODPLAIN DEVELOPMENT PERMIT. Any type of permit that is required in conformance with the provisions of this chapter, prior to the commencement of any development activity.

FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT. The operation of an overall program of corrective and preventive measures for reducing flood damage and preserving and enhancing, where possible, natural resources in the floodplain, including, but not limited to, emergency preparedness plans, flood control works, floodplain management regulations and open space plans.

FLOODPLAIN REGULATIONS. This chapter and other ordinances, subdivision regulations, building codes, health regulations, special purpose ordinances and other applications of police power which control development in flood-prone areas. This term describes federal, state or local regulations, in any combination thereof, which provide standards for preventing and reducing flood loss and damage.

FLOOD-PRONE AREA. See FLOODPLAIN.

FLOOD-PROOFING. Any combination of structural and non-structural additions, changes or adjustments to structures, which reduce or eliminate risk of flood damage to real estate or improved real property, water and sanitation facilities, or structures with their contents.

FLOODWAY. The channel of a river or other watercourse and the adjacent land areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood without cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than one foot.

FLOOR AREA, GROSS. The total number of square feet on all floors of a building, as measured from the outside faces of the building.

FLOOR COVERING STORES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing new floor coverings, such as rugs and carpets, vinyl floor coverings and floor tile (except ceramic or wood only); or retailing new floor coverings in combination with installation and repair services.

FLORISTS. This industry is comprised of establishments known as florists that are primarily engaged in retailing cut flowers, floral arrangements and potted plants purchased from others. These establishments usually prepare the arrangements they sell.

FLOUR AND FEED MILLS. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in:

(a) Milling flour or meal from grains (except rice) or vegetables.

(b) Milling flour and preparing flour mixes or doughs; and/or

FOOD AND FOOD PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING. Industries in the food manufacturing subsector which transform livestock and agricultural products into products for intermediate or final consumption. The food products manufactured in these establishments are typically sold to wholesalers or retailers for distribution to consumers, but establishments primarily engaged in retailing bakery and candy products made on the premises, but not for immediate consumption, are included. Beverage manufacturing is not included in this category.

FOOD CATERING. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing single event-based food services. These establishments generally have equipment and vehicles to transport meals and snacks to events and/or prepare food at an off-premises site. Banquet halls with catering staff are included in this industry. Examples of events catered by establishments in this industry are graduation parties, wedding receptions, business or retirement luncheons and trade shows.

FOOD OR DRUG STORE. An establishment primarily engaged in selling food for home preparation and consumption, or prescription drugs, non-prescription medicines and related lines.

FORESTRY. Industries in the forestry and logging subsector which grow and harvest timber on a long production cycle (i.e., of ten years or more). Long production cycles use different production processes than short production cycles, which require more horticultural interventions prior to harvest, resulting in processes more like those found in the crop production subsector. Industries in this subsector specialize in different stages of the production cycle. Reforestation requires production of seedlings in specialized nurseries. Timber production requires natural forest or suitable areas of land that are available for a long duration. The maturation time for timber depends upon the species of tree, the climatic conditions of the region and the intended purpose of the timber. The harvesting of timber (except when done on an extremely small scale) requires specialized machinery unique to the industry. Establishments gathering forest products such as gums, barks, balsam needles, rhizomes, fibers, Spanish moss, ginseng and truffles are also included in this subsector.

FOUNDRIES. This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in pouring molten metal into molds or dies to form castings. Establishments that make castings and carry out further manufacturing processes, such as machining or assembling a specific manufactured product, are classified in the industry of the finished product. FOUNDRIES may perform operations such as cleaning and deburring on the castings they manufacture.

FREEBOARD. The height added to the base flood elevation (BFE) to account for the many unknown factors that could contribute to flood heights greater than the height calculated for a selected size flood and floodway conditions, such as wave action, blockage of bridge openings and the hydrological effect of urbanization of the watershed. The base flood elevation (BFE) plus the freeboard establishes the regulatory flood protection elevation.

FRONT LOT LINE. See LOT LINE, FRONT.

FRONT YARD. See YARD, FRONT.

FRONTAGE. The property abutting on one side of a street measured along the street right-of-way line.

FUNCTIONALLY DEPENDENT FACILITY. A facility which cannot be used for its intended purpose unless it is near water, such as a docking or port facility necessary for the loading and unloading of cargo or passengers, shipbuilding or ship repair. The term does not include longterm storage, manufacture, sales or service facilities.

FUNERAL HOME. An establishment engaged in undertaking services, such as preparing the human dead for burial and in arranging and managing funerals. This definition includes on-site crematories and mortuaries.

FURNITURE AND HOME FURNISHINGS STORE. An establishment primarily engaged in the retail sale of new or used household furniture, floor coverings, draperies, curtains and upholstery materials, and miscellaneous home furnishings, such as bedding and linens, lamps and shades, mirrors, Venetian blinds and window shades.

FURNITURE MANUFACTURING. Industries in the furniture and related product manufacturing subsector which make furniture and related articles such as mattresses, window blinds, cabinets and fixtures. The processes used in the manufacture of furniture include the cutting, bending, molding, laminating and assembly of such materials as wood, metal, glass, plastics and rattan. The integrated design of the article for both esthetic and functional qualities is also a major part of the process of manufacturing furniture.

FURNITURE REFINISHING AND REPAIR. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in one or more of the following:

(a) Reupholstering furniture;

(b) Refinishing furniture;

(d) Repairing and restoring furniture.

FURRIERS. Those establishments which are primarily engaged in selling garments made of fur.

GAS OR SERVICE STATION. This industry comprises establishments engaged in retailing automotive fuels (e.g., diesel fuel, gasohol, gasoline) in combination with convenience store or food mart items. These establishments can either be in a convenience store (i.e., food mart) setting or a gasoline station setting. These establishments may also provide automotive repair services.

GENERAL CONTRACTOR’S OFFICE. An establishment providing general contracting and/or building construction services for residential, farm, industrial or commercial uses, and which does not involve outdoor storage of machinery or equipment.

GENERAL STORE. A single store which offers for sale primarily most of the following articles: milk, bread, cheese, canned and bottled foods, bottled drinks, tobacco products, candy, papers and magazines, general hardware items, clothing and local crafts, among other retail items. The store may also have a snack bar for prepared food, either prepared on-site or offsite, for consumption, but is smaller than a full-service restaurant and is incidental to the general store activities.

GIFT SHOPS. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing new gifts, novelty merchandise, souvenirs, greeting cards, seasonal and holiday decorations and curios.

GLASS PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing glass and/or glass products. Establishments in this industry may manufacture glass and/or glass products by melting silica sand or cullet, or by purchasing glass.

GO-CART TRACK. These establishments are primarily engaged in operating racetracks for go-carts.

GOLF COURSE. An area designed for golf, not including a par 3 golf course, having at least nine holes, each with a tee, fairway, green and one or more hazards. A clubhouse, pool and other facilities associated with a country club built around a golf course are considered part of the GOLF COURSE.

GOLF DRIVING RANGE (INDEPENDENT). An open-air golf practice facility operated independently of an on-site golf course.

GOTHIC REVIVAL STYLE. Architecture that is an imitation of various medieval Gothic architectural styles starting at the beginning of the nineteenth century and widespread during the years 1840–1870. Typical elements include symmetrical facades, gable dormers, steeply pitched roofs with cross gables, scrollwork bargeboards, and hood molds over square-headed or point-arched windows. Common architecture for churches, colleges and rural houses.

GOVERNING BOARD. The Surry County Board of County Commissioners.

GOVERNMENTAL MAINTENANCE FACILITY. These facilities are used by government for storage and/or maintenance purposes.

GREEK REVIVAL STYLE. A style of architecture based on classic Greek temples. Typical elements include low-pitch gable or hipped roofs, pedimented gable ends, simple architrave bands at the eaves, entry porches with Doric style columns and entablature, front door with narrow sidelights and rectangular fanlight, multi-paned double-hung or triple-hung windows (common in the United States, ca. 1820–1860).

GREENHOUSES AND NURSERIES, COMMERCIAL. An establishment primarily engaged in the retail sale of trees, shrubs, other plants, seeds, bulbs, mulches, soil conditioners, fertilizers, pesticides, garden tools and other garden supplies to the general public. These establishments primarily sell products purchased from others but may sell some plants which are grown at the establishment.

GREENHOUSES, PRIVATE. A small facility where plants are grown for personal use, not for retail or commercial sale.

GREENWAY. A linear open space along a natural or constructed corridor which may be used for pedestrian or bicycle passage. GREENWAYS often link areas of activity, such as parks, cultural features, or historic sites with each other and with populated areas.

GROSS FLOOR AREA. The total area of any buildings in the project, including the basements, mezzanines and upper floors, exclusive of stairways and elevator shafts. It excludes separate service facilities outside the buildings such as boiler rooms and maintenance shops.

GROUND COVER. Any natural vegetative growth or other material which renders the soil surface stable against accelerated erosion.

GROUP DEVELOPMENT. Development where two or more structures are to be constructed on a single parcel, which is not intended to be subdivided. These include, but are not limited to, manufactured home parks, mini-warehousing, multi-family developments and shopping centers.

G.S. North Carolina General Statutes.

GUEST HOUSE (ON-SITE STICK-BUILT). An attached or detached dwelling that provides living quarters for guests which:

(a) May or may not contain cooking facilities;

(b) The total square footage of the house is no greater than 60% of the total square footage of the principal residence on the same zoning lot and is clearly subordinate and incidental to the principal residence on the same zoning lot;

(d) Is not rented or leased, whether compensation is direct or indirect.

GUN AND AMMUNITION SALES. These establishments are primarily engaged in sales of small firearms to be carried and fired by the same individual making the purchase, and/or engaged in sales of ammunition for small firearms.

GUNSMITH. These establishments are primarily engaged in forging small firearms.

HARDWARE STORE. An establishment primarily engaged in the retail sale of a number of basic hardware lines, such as tools, builder’s hardware, paint, glass, housewares, household appliances and cutlery.

HATCHERIES. An establishment where the eggs of fish or chickens are incubated and raised for commercial purposes.

HAZARDOUS MATERIAL. Any substance listed as such in the Superfund Amendments and Reauthorization Act (SARA) § 302, Extremely Hazardous Substances; the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation and Liability Act (CERCLA) Hazardous Substances; or § 311 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) (oil and hazardous substances).

HAZARDOUS SUBSTANCE. Any chemical defined as a physical hazard or a health hazard under standards of North Carolina Administrative Code § 7C.0101(a)(105). Physical hazards include, but are not limited to, chemicals which are combustible, explosive, flammable and reactive. Health hazards include, but are not limited to, chemicals which are carcinogens, toxins, corrosives and irritants.

HAZARDOUS WASTE MANAGEMENT FACILITY. A facility for the collection, storage, processing, treatment, recycling, recovery or disposal of hazardous waste as defined in G.S. Ch. 130A, Art. 9.

HEALTH CLUBS. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in operating fitness and recreational sports facilities that feature exercise and other active physical fitness conditioning, or recreational sports activities such as swimming, skating or racquet sports.

HEALTH PRACTITIONER’S OFFICE. This industry comprises establishments of health practitioners having the degree of M.D. (Doctor of Medicine) or D.O. (Doctor of Osteopathy) primarily engaged in the independent practice of general or specialized medicine (e.g., anesthesiology, oncology, ophthalmology, psychiatry) or surgery. These practitioners operate private or group practices in their own offices (e.g., centers, clinics) or in the facilities of others such as hospitals or HMO medical centers.

HEATING AND REFRIGERATION SHOPS. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in selling warm air heating and air-conditioning equipment and supplies and/or refrigeration equipment (except household-type refrigerators, freezers and air-conditioners).

HEAVY EQUIPMENT MANUFACTURING. These establishments are primarily engaged in manufacturing heavy equipment such as that used for construction and industrial manufacturing.

HIGHEST ADJACENT GRADE (HAG). The highest natural elevation of the ground surface, prior to construction, immediately next to the proposed walls of the structure.

HISTORIC PROPERTY VENTURES. Retail and service uses utilized in conjunction with an established historic property or historic district, as designated by the North Carolina State Historic Preservation Office or the United States Department of the Interior.

HISTORIC STRUCTURE. Any structure that is:

(a) Listed individually in the National Register of Historic Places (a listing maintained by the U.S. Department of Interior) or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of Interior as meeting the requirements for individual listing on the National Register.

(b) Certified or preliminarily determined by the Secretary of Interior as contributing to the historical significance of a registered historic district or a district preliminarily determined by the Secretary to qualify as a registered historic district.

(c) Individually listed on a local inventory of historic landmarks in communities with a “Certified Local Government (CLG) Program”.

(d) Certified as contributing to the historical significance of a historic district designated by a community with a “Certified Local Government (CLG) Program”; or

(e) Identified in “Simple Treasures: The Architectural Legacy of Surry County”. (This division (e) does not apply as a definition for a HISTORIC STRUCTURE as it relates to flood hazard areas).

HOBBY, TOY AND CRAFT STORES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing new toys, games and hobby and craft supplies (except needlecraft).

HOME OCCUPATION. Any profession or occupation carried on by a member of a family or a member of a recognized profession residing on the premises; provided that no merchandise or commodity is sold or offered for sale on the premises and that no mechanical equipment is installed or used except such that is normally used for domestic or professional purposes; and provided that not over 25% of the total actual floor area of any structure is used for home occupation (work within the home) or professional purposes and that all parking generated by the conduct of such home occupation be off the street and other than in a required front yard. A sign may be used in conjunction with the HOME OCCUPATION but shall not be larger than four square feet.

HOME OCCUPATION OF A COMMERCIAL NATURE. A detached commercial use of greater scale than the traditional home occupation, but which is still secondary and incidental to the residential use; but not including agricultural or horticultural activities.

HOMEGROWN RESTAURANT. Farm-based, tourism driven restaurants that serve food and beverages primarily to customers seated at tables or counters located within the building or designated outdoor seating areas. At a minimum, 50% of the food which is served at this type of restaurant must be grown on-site or on nearby farms in the same ownership.

HOSIERY MILLS. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in knitting or knitting and furnishing hosiery and socks.

HOSPITAL. A facility providing medical, psychiatric or surgical services for sick or injured persons, including emergency treatment, diagnostic services, training, research and administration.

HOTEL or MOTEL. A building or group of buildings used principally to provide shelter, with or without meals, for not fewer than four paying guests.

HUD. United States Department of Housing and Urban Development.

ICE CREAM PARLOR. An establishment engaged in sales of ice cream and other related dairy products, as well as related retail sales.

ICE MANUFACTURING. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing ice.

IMPROVEMENT. Any structure or constructed feature not included under the definition of STRUCTURE.

INDUSTRIAL SUPPLIES AND EQUIPMENT. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing or wholesaling:

(a) Machinery and equipment; and/or

(b) Supplies used in machinery and equipment that is generally utilized in manufacturing, oil wells and warehousing activities.

INSPECTIONS DEPARTMENT. Surry County Inspections Department.

INSURANCE AGENCY. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in acting as agents (i.e., brokers) in selling annuities and insurance policies.

INTERIOR DESIGNERS. This industry includes interior decorating consultants engaged exclusively in providing aesthetic services associated with interior spaces, but may also include establishments primarily engaged in planning, designing and administering projects in interior spaces to meet the physical and aesthetic needs of people using them. The industry may take into consideration building codes, health and safety regulations, traffic patterns and floor planning, mechanical and electrical needs, and interior fittings and furniture.

JEWELRY STORES.

(a) This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing one or more of the following items:

1. New jewelry (except costume jewelry);

2. New sterling and plated silverware; and

3. New watches and clocks.

(b) Also included are establishments retailing these new products in combination with lapidary work and/or repair services.

JUNK. Old or scrapped copper, brass, rope, rags, batteries, paper, trash, rubber, debris, waste, iron, steel and other old or scrap ferrous or non-ferrous material.

JUNKYARD. Any open area which is maintained, operated or used for storing, keeping, salvaging, abandoning, buying or selling junk regardless of length of time that junk is stored or kept, but shall not include county operated facilities. The processing, dismantling or disassembling of these items is prohibited; this includes materially reducing the size by force, dropping, or slinging materials. No scrap tires shall be stored at the yard longer than 30 days.

KENNEL.

(a) Any facility used for the purpose of boarding animals, excluding horses, cattle, swine, sheep, goats, poultry, geese or other livestock. KENNELS may conduct other such incidental activities as the sale of animals, treatment of the animals, grooming or cleaning and the sale of pet supplies. In addition, any establishment wherein any person engages in business or practice, for fee, of boarding, breeding, grooming, letting for hire, or training of more than three adult animals or more than one litter in any 12-month period; or any facility, other than a retail pet shop, that houses domesticated animals in connection with an activity requiring a license under the state and/or federal animal welfare acts. “Domesticated animals”, for the purpose of this chapter, shall be defined as dogs, cats and other generally accepted household pets. One litter refers here to the offspring produced from a single pregnancy.

(b) In no way shall these provisions regulate the ownership of domesticated animals:

1. As household pets;

2. For hunting or tracking purposes;

3. For exhibiting and/or competition at shows or at obedience or field trials;

4. For protection or guarding of residences or commercial establishments; or

5. To assist impaired or disabled persons.

KNITTING MILLS. This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in knitting apparel or knitting fabric and then manufacturing apparel. This industry group includes jobbers performing entrepreneurial functions involved in knitting apparel and accessories. Knitting fabric, without manufacturing apparel, is classified in NAICS Subsector 313, Textile Mills.

LAKE OR NATURAL WATERCOURSE. Any stream, river, brook, swamp, sound, bay, creek, run, branch, canal, waterway, estuary and any reservoir, lake or pond, natural or impounded, in which sediment may be moved or carried in suspension, and which could be damaged by accumulation of sediment.

LAND DISTURBING ACTIVITY. Any use of the land by any person in residential, industrial, educational, institutional or commercial development or highway and road construction and maintenance that results in a change in the natural cover or topography that may cause or contribute to sedimentation.

LANDFILL, CONSTRUCTION AND DEMOLITION. A landfill which accepts construction or demolition debris or waste including solid waste from construction, remodeling, repair or demolition operations on pavement, buildings or other structures.

LANDFILL, SANITARY. A facility for the disposal of all types of solid wastes, excluding hazardous wastes or toxic substances.

LANDOWNER OR OWNER. The holder of the title in fee simple. Absent evidence to the contrary, the county may rely on the county tax records to determine who is a landowner. The landowner may authorize a person holding a valid option, lease, or contract to purchase to act as his or her agent or representative for the purpose of making applications for development approvals.

LANDSCAPE ARCHITECT. A person licensed to use the title of landscape architect in the State of North Carolina.

LANDSCAPERS. These professionals are:

(a) Primarily engaged in providing landscape care, maintenance services and/or installing trees, shrubs, plants, lawns or gardens; and

(b) Primarily engaged in providing these services along with the design of landscape plans and/or the construction (i.e., installation) of walkways, retaining walls, decks, fences, ponds and similar structures.

LAWN AND GARDEN CARE. This industry comprises:

(a) Establishments primarily engaged in providing landscape care and maintenance services and/or installing trees, shrubs, plants, lawns or gardens; and

(b) Establishments primarily engaged in providing these services along with the design of landscape plans and/or the construction (i.e., installation) of walkways, retaining walls, decks, fences, ponds and similar structures.

LAWN AND GARDEN SUPPLIES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing nursery and garden products such as trees, shrubs, plants, seeds, bulbs and sod that are predominantly grown elsewhere. These establishments may sell a limited amount of a product they grow themselves.

LAWNMOWER REPAIR. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in repairing and servicing home and garden equipment without retailing new home and garden equipment such as lawnmowers, handheld power tools, edgers, snow- and leaf-blowers and trimmers.

LEATHER PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING. Establishments in the leather and allied product manufacturing subsector which transform hides into leather by tanning or curing and fabricating the leather into products for final consumption. It also includes the manufacture of similar products from other materials including products (except apparel) made from “leather substitutes”, such as rubber, plastics or textiles. Rubber footwear, textile luggage and plastics purses or wallets are examples of “leather substitute” products included in this group. The products made from leather substitutes are included in this subsector because they are made in similar ways leather products are made (e.g., luggage). They are made in the same establishments, so it is not practical to separate them.

LEGISLATIVE DECISION. The adoption, amendment, or repeal of a regulation under G.S. Ch. 160D or an applicable local act. The term also includes decisions to approve, amend, or rescind a development agreement consistent with the provisions of G.S. Ch. 160D, Art. 10.

LEGISLATIVE HEARING. A hearing to solicit public comment on a proposed legislative decision.

LEVEE. A man-made structure, usually an earthen embankment, designed and constructed in accordance with sound engineering practices to contain, or divert the flow of water so as to provide protection from temporary flooding.

LEVEE SYSTEM. A flood protection system which consists of a levee, or levees, and associated structures, such as closure and drainage devices, which are constructed and operated in accordance with sound engineering practices.

LIBRARY, PUBLIC. A publicly operated facility housing a collection of books, magazines, audio and videotapes, or other material for use by the general public.

LINEN AND UNIFORM SUPPLY SERVICES. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in supplying, on a rental or contract basis, laundered items, such as table and bed linens, towels, diapers and uniforms, gowns, or coats of the type used by doctors, nurses, barbers, beauticians and waitresses.

LIQUOR STORE. An establishment regulated by the Alcoholic Beverage Control Board selling alcoholic beverages.

LIVESTOCK, NON-FARM. Possession of livestock on a residential lot for non-agricultural purposes, such as recreation and/or pleasure (i.e., horses, swine, goats, and the like).

LIVESTOCK SALE BARNS. These are facilities where livestock producers gather to sell their livestock and where the livestock is temporarily housed during this process.

LIVESTOCK SALES. A commercial establishment wherein livestock is collected for sale or auctioning.

LOCAL ZONING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER. Designee or such other person in the Development Services Department as the adopting jurisdiction may designate as the officer principally responsible for the enforcement of this chapter.

LOCKSMITH. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in:

(a) Selling mechanical or electronic locking devices, safes and security vaults, along with installation, repair, rebuilding or adjusting services; or

(b) Installing, repairing, rebuilding and adjusting mechanical or electronic locking devices, safes and security vaults.

LOG HOME MANUFACTURING. A facility where all components of log homes are produced and shipped to work sites.

LOT. A parcel of land, the boundaries of which are established by some legal instrument such as a deed or a recorded plat (but not tax map) and which is recognized as a separate tract for purposes of transfer of title, in single ownership, occupied or intended for occupancy by a principal building together with its accessory buildings, including the open space required under this chapter. For purposes of this chapter, the word LOT shall mean any number of contiguous lots or portions of lots upon which one principal building and its accessory buildings are located or are intended to be located that are intended for occupancy.

(a) LOT, ADJACENT. Any lot or parcel, which has a common boundary, right-of-way or easement with the subject lot.

(b) LOT, CORNER. A lot abutting two or more streets at their intersection, or upon two parts of the same street, forming an interior angle of less than 135 degrees as measured at the centerline of the street. The point of intersection of the street right-of-way lines, or of the street right-of-way lines as extended, is the corner.

(d) LOT, DOUBLE FRONTAGE. A lot having frontage and access on two or more streets. A corner lot shall not be considered as having double frontage unless it has frontage and access on three or more streets.

(e) LOT, INTERIOR. A lot other than a corner lot.

(f) LOT FRONT. That side of a lot, which fronts on a street. In the case of a corner lot, the subdivider shall designate the front of the lot for purposes of these regulations and the Surry County Zoning Ordinance by labeling the front and side building lines as such on the final plat.

(g) LOT LINE. A line or series of connected line segments bounding a lot.

(h) LOT LINE, FRONT. The line which separates the lot from a street right-of-way. Corner lots shall have only one front lot line.

(i) LOT LINE, INTERIOR. A side lot line which separates the lot from another lot.

(j) LOT LINE, REAR. That lot line which is opposite and most distant from the front lot line. In cases where neither of these conditions is applicable, the Zoning Officer shall designate the rear lot line.

(k) LOT LINE, SIDE. A lot line other than a front or rear lot line.

(l) LOT, NON-CONFORMING. A lot which does not meet all the dimensional requirements of the zoning district in which it is located, which exists by virtue of the fact that it lawfully existed on the day before the effective date of this chapter or subsequent amendments, and which continues to exist.

(m) LOT OF RECORD. A lot which is a part of a subdivision, a plat of which has been recorded in the office of the Register of Deeds, or a lot which is described by metes and bounds, the description of which has been so recorded, prior to the effective date of this chapter.

(n) LOT WIDTH. The horizontal distance between the side lot lines at the building front setback line as measured along a straight line parallel to the front lot line or parallel to the chord thereof.

LOW COVERAGE STEALTH WIRELESS SYSTEM. An unconventional wireless system designed to provide wireless services to rural areas that will not benefit from the construction of wireless communication towers; designed to utilize existing structures such as utility poles and rooftops to support the wireless system instead of the traditional tower. The wireless system shall be much smaller than the traditional wireless system found on a wireless communication tower and shall clearly be stealth in nature to minimize the effect on the surrounding area.

LOWEST ADJACENT GRADE (LAG). The elevation of the ground, sidewalk or patio slab immediately next to the budding, or deck support, after completion of the building. For Zones A and AO, use the natural grade elevation prior to construction.

LOWEST FLOOR. The lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area (including basement). An unfinished or flood resistant enclosure, usable solely for parking of vehicles, building access or limited storage in an area other than a basement area is not considered a building’s LOWEST FLOOR; provided that such an enclosure is not built to render the structure in violation of the applicable non-elevation design requirements of this chapter.

LUGGAGE MANUFACTURING. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing luggage of any material.

LUMBER AND BUILDING MATERIALS SALES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in selling lumber; plywood; reconstituted wood fiber products; wood fencing; doors and windows and their frames (all materials); wood roofing and siding; and/or other wood or metal millwork.

LUMBERYARD. This industry comprises establishments (except those known as home centers, paint and wallpaper stores, and hardware stores) primarily engaged in retailing lumber.

MACHINE AND WELDING SHOPS. This industry comprises establishments known as machine shops primarily engaged in machining metal parts on a job or order basis. Generally, machine shop jobs are low volume using machine tools such as lathes (including computer numerically controlled); automatic screw machines; and machines for boring, grinding and milling. This industry also comprises establishments primarily engaged in the repair and maintenance of commercial and industrial machinery and equipment. Establishments in this industry either sharpen/install commercial and industrial machinery blades and saws; or provide welding (e.g., automotive, general) repair services; or repair agricultural and other heavy and industrial machinery and equipment (e.g., forklifts and other materials handling equipment, machine tools, commercial refrigeration equipment, construction equipment and mining machinery).

MACHINE TOOLS MANUFACTURING. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing metal cutting machine tools (except hand tools) and metal forming machine tools (except hand tools) such as punching, sheering, bending, forming, pressing, forging and die-casting machines.

MAIL ORDER OFFICE. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing all types of merchandise by means of mail or by electronic media, such as interactive television or computer. Included in this industry are establishments primarily engaged in retailing from catalogue showrooms of mail-order houses.

MALL. See SHOPPING CENTER.

MANAGEMENT CONSULTANTS. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing advice and assistance to businesses and other organizations on management issues such as strategic and organizational planning; financial planning and budgeting; marketing objectives and policies; human resource policies, practices and planning; production scheduling; and control planning.

MANUFACTURED AND MODULAR HOMES AND RECREATIONAL VEHICLE SALES. An establishment primarily engaged in the retail sale of new and used manufactured homes, modular homes, recreational vehicles and similar items. Any outdoor area where manufactured homes, modular homes, recreational vehicles are stored throughout the day and the night and are held for the purpose of sale or lease as an entire or complete unit.

MANUFACTURED HOME. A dwelling unit that is composed of one or more components, each of which was substantially assembled in a manufacturing plant and designed to be transported to the home site on its own chassis; a dwelling unit that exceeds 40 feet in length and eight feet in width; a dwelling unit that is constructed in accordance with the National Manufactured Home Construction and Safety Standards; and a dwelling unit that is not constructed in accordance with the standards of the North Carolina State Building Code for one- and two-family dwellings.

(a) CLASS A. A manufactured home constructed after 7-1-1976 and that meets or exceeds the construction standards promulgated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development that were in effect at the time of construction and that satisfies the following additional criteria:

1. Is a multi-sectional home (i.e., double-wide, triple-wide);

2. The pitch of the manufactured home’s roof has a minimum vertical rise of two and two-tenths feet for each 12 feet of horizontal run and the roof is finished with a roofing material with a fire rating of Class C or better and is commonly used in standard residential construction;

3. The exterior siding consists predominately of vinyl horizontal lap siding, wood or hardboard, cedar or other wood siding, wood grain, weather resistant pressboard siding, stucco siding or brick or stone siding, or other non-glare surface or other siding whose reflectivity does not exceed that of flat white paint;

4. A continuous, permanent brick, masonry with stucco finish, stone, metal curtain wall or foundation, unpierced, except for ventilation and access, is installed under the manufactured home. For clarification on design or sighting standards, refer to §§ 154.019; and

5. The tongue, axles, removable towing apparatus and transporting lights are removed after final placement on the site.

(b) CLASS B. A manufactured home constructed after 7-1-1976 and that meets or exceeds the construction standards promulgated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development that were in effect at the time of construction and that satisfies the following additional criteria:

1. Is a single-section home (i.e., single-wide);

3. The exterior siding consists predominately of vinyl or aluminum horizontal lap siding, wood or hardboard, or other non-glare surface or other siding whose reflectivity does not exceed that of flat white paint;

4. A continuous, permanent brick, masonry stone with stucco finish, vinyl, metal, curtain wall or foundation, unpierced, except for ventilation and access, is installed under the manufactured home. For clarification on design or sighting standards, refer to §§ 154.019; and

5. The tongue, axles, removable towing apparatus and transporting fights are removed after final placement on the site.

MANUFACTURED HOME PARK. A tract of unsubdivided land occupied or proposed to be occupied by two or more manufactured homes. See §§ 154.019 for specific requirements.

MANUFACTURED HOME PARK SPACE. An area within an approved manufactured home park for the placement of a single manufactured home and its associated accessory structures.

MANUFACTURED HOME SPACE. The land in a manufactured home park allotted to or designed for the accommodation of one manufactured home.

MANUFACTURERS’ SHOWROOMS. These establishments are primarily engaged in providing show space for manufactured products such as furniture, bedding, and the like, and may include wholesale and/or retail activities.

MANUFACTURING.

(a) A manufacturing establishment primarily engaged in the fabrication or assembly of products from pre-structured materials or components. Because of the nature of its operations and products, MANUFACTURING produces little or no noise, odor, vibration, glare and/or air and water pollution and, therefore, has minimal impact on surrounding properties.

(b) A manufacturing establishment whose operations, including storage of materials; processing, fabrication or assembly of products; and loading and unloading of new materials and finished products occurs within an enclosed building, and which does not produce or utilize in large quantities as an integral part of the manufacturing process toxic, hazardous or explosive materials. Noise, odor, dust or vibration from the manufacturing process may result in only minor impacts on adjacent properties.

(c) A manufacturing establishment whose operations, including storage of materials; processing, fabrication or assembly of products; and loading and unloading of new materials and finished products may occur either inside an enclosed building or outside on the premises. Toxic, hazardous or explosive materials may be produced or used in large quantities as an integral part of the manufacturing process. Noise, odor, dust, vibration or visual impacts, as well as potential public health problems in the event of an accident, could impact adjacent properties.

MARKET VALUE. The building value, excluding the land value and that of any accessory structures or other improvements on the lot, established by independent certified appraisal, replacement cost depreciated by age of building and quality of construction (actual cash value), or adjusted tax assessed values.

MEAN SEA LEVEL. For purposes of the NFIP, the National Geodetic Vertical Datum (NGVD) as corrected in 1929, the North American Vertical Datum (NAVD) as corrected in 1988, or other vertical control datum used as a reference for establishing varying elevations within the floodplain, to which base flood elevations (BFEs) shown on a FIRM are referenced. Refer to each FIRM panel to determine datum used.

MEAT PACKING AND POULTRY PROCESSING PLANTS. An establishment primarily engaged in the slaughtering of cattle, chickens, hogs, sheep, lambs and calves for meat to be sold or to be used on the same premises in canning, cooking, curing and freezing, and in making sausage, lard and other products.

MEDICAL AND DENTAL CLINICS. An establishment primarily engaged in furnishing medical and surgical services to individuals and licensed for such practice by the state.

MEDICAL OR DENTAL LABORATORIES. An establishment primarily engaged in providing professional analytic or diagnostic services to the medical profession, or to the patient, on direction of a physician; or an establishment primarily engaged in making dentures, artificial teeth and orthodontic appliances to order for the dental profession.

METAL FABRICATION. These establishments are primarily engaged in the transformation of metal into intermediate or end products other than machinery, computers and electronics, and metal furniture; or treating metals and metal-formed products fabricated elsewhere. Important fabricated metal processes are forging, stamping, bending, forming and machining, used to shape individual pieces of metal; and other processes, such as welding and assembling, used to join separate parts together. Establishments in this subsector may use one of these processes or a combination of these processes.

METAL FABRICATION PLANT. A large-scale (greater than 10,001 square feet) facility which is engaged in the shaping of metal and similar materials.

METAL FABRICATION SHOP. A small-scale (10,000 square feet or less) facility which is engaged in the shaping of metal and similar materials.

METALSMITH OPERATIONS. These establishments are primarily engaged in manually forging metal on a small scale (as opposed to automated or mass forging of metals).

MINIATURE GOLF. This is a non-professional, miniature golf course in a non-member setting. These establishments often provide video arcades and/or concessions.

MINING, QUARRYING or RESOURCE EXTRACTION.

(a) Any mining activity, as defined in state law, including:

1. The breaking of the surface soil in order to facilitate or accomplish the extraction or removal of minerals, ores or other solid matter;

2. Any activity or process constituting all or part of a process for the extraction or removal of minerals, ores, soils and other solid matter from its original location; and

3. The preparation, washing, cleaning or other treatment of minerals, ores or other solid matter to make them suitable for commercial, industrial or construction use.

(b) MINING shall not include those aspects of deep mining not having significant effect on the surface, where the affected land does not exceed one acre in area. MINING shall not include mining operations where the affected land does not exceed one acre in area. MINING shall not include plants engaged in processing minerals produced elsewhere and whose refuse does not affect more than one acre of land. MINING shall not include excavation or grading when conducted solely in aid of on-site farming or of on-site construction for purposes other than mining. Removal of overburden and mining of limited amounts of any ores or mineral solids shall not be considered MINING when done only for the purpose and to the extent necessary to determine the location, quantity or quality of any natural deposit, provided that no ores or mineral solids removed during such exploratory excavation or mining are sold, processed for sale or consumed in the regular operation of a business, and provided further that the affected land resulting from any such exploratory excavation does not exceed one acre in area.

MINI-WAREHOUSE. Moving and/or storage services for household and business goods, including self-service storage facilities.

MODULAR HOME, CONVENTIONAL. A manufactured home which is constructed in accordance with the N.C. State Building Code with wood frame construction and set-up on a brick foundation.

MODULAR HOME, ON-FRAME. A manufactured home which is constructed in accordance with the N.C. State Building Code on a metal frame and is set-up on block piers with brick underpinning.

MONUMENT SALES. An establishment where concrete or rock-based monuments, such as yard decor, tombstones, and the like, are sold.

MOTOCROSS TRACK. A closed-course motorcycle racetrack over natural or simulated rough terrain.

MOTOR VEHICLE. Any machine propelled by power other than human power, requiring for use a license tag and registration by the NCDOT, Division of Motor Vehicles, and designed to travel upon the highways and public streets using wheels, treads, self-laying tracks, runners, slides or skids; including, but not limited to, automobiles, trucks, motorcycles, motor scooters, campers, tractors, trailers, and any part of the same.

MOTOR VEHICLE BODY OR PAINT SHOP. An establishment primarily engaged in body work, painting or customizing of automobiles or other motor vehicles.

MOTOR VEHICLE, JUNKED. An unlicensed motor vehicle of any age that is damaged or defective in any one or combination of any of the following ways that either makes the vehicle immediately inoperable, or would prohibit the vehicle from being operated in a reasonably safe manner upon the public streets and highways under its own power if self-propelled, or while being towed or pushed, if not designed to be self-propelled; to include but not limited to:

(a) Flat tires, missing tires, missing wheels or missing or partially or totally disassembled tires and wheels;

(b) Missing or partially or totally disassembled essential part or parts of the vehicle’s drive train, including, but not limited to, engine, transmission, transaxle, drive shaft, differential or axle;

(c) Extensive exterior body damage or missing or partially or totally disassembled essential body parts, including, but not limited to, fenders, doors, engine hood, bumper or bumpers, windshield, or windows;

(d) Missing or partially or totally disassembled essential interior parts, including, but not limited to, driver’s seat, steering wheel, instrument panel, clutch, brake, gear shift lever;

(e) Missing or partially or totally disassembled parts essential to the starting or running of the vehicle under its own power, including, but not limited to, starter, generator or alternator, battery, distributor, gas tank, carburetor or fuel injection system, spark plugs or radiator;

(f) Interior is a container for metal, glass, paper, rags or other cloth, wood, auto parts, machinery, waste or discarded materials in such quantity, quality and arrangement that a driver cannot be properly seated in the vehicle;

(g) Lying on the ground (upside down, on its side or at other extreme angle), sitting on blocks or suspended in the air by any other method; or

(h) General environment in which the vehicle sits, including, but not limited to, vegetation that has grown up around, in or through the vehicle, the collection of pools of water in the vehicle, and the accumulation of other garbage or debris around the vehicle.

MOTOR VEHICLE, PROJECT. A project motor vehicle is an unlicensed motor vehicle that is temporarily inoperable and is stored on residential premises during an active process of restoration by the owner for personal use.

MOTOR VEHICLE REPAIR. An establishment engaged in providing mechanical automotive maintenance and repair, such as engine repair, exhaust system replacement and transmission repair, and/or providing other related services, such as upholstery or glass replacement. This use includes service stations but does not include bodywork or painting. No scrap tires shall be stored at the establishment longer than 30 days.

MOTOR VEHICLE, UNLICENSED. A motor vehicle that does not display current and valid license information issued by the NCDOT, Division of Motor Vehicles, in the manner and form prescribed by that agency.

MOVIE THEATER, DRIVE-IN. An establishment for the outdoor viewing of motion pictures by patrons while in motor vehicles.

MOVIE THEATER, INDOOR. An establishment for the indoor viewing of motion pictures by patrons.

MULTI-FAMILY. Includes the definitions of apartments, condominiums and townhouses.

MUSEUM or ART GALLERY. A structure used for the display and preservation of paintings, sculpture and other constructed or natural objects illustrating human or natural history.

MUSIC STORES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing new or used prerecorded audio and video tapes, compact discs (CDs), and phonograph records; and/or retailing new or used musical instruments, sheet music and related supplies; or retailing these new products in combination with musical instrument repair, rental or music instruction.

NATIONAL ENVIRONMENTAL POLICY ACT (NEPA). Federal act that regulates developments affecting wilderness areas, wildlife preserves, endangered species, historical sites, Indian religious sites, floodplain, wetlands, high intensity white lights in residential neighborhoods and radio frequency emissions in excess of the FCC's guidelines.

NCDEQ. North Carolina Department of Environmental Quality (formerly NCDENR: North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources).

NCDOT. North Carolina Department of Transportation.

NEW CONSTRUCTION. Structures for which the “start of construction” commenced on or after the effective date of the original version of this chapter and includes any subsequent improvements to such structures.

NEWS SYNDICATES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in supplying information, such as news reports, articles, pictures and features, to the news media.

NEWSSTANDS. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing current newspapers, magazines and other periodicals.

NIGHT CLUBS and PLACES OF ENTERTAINMENT.

(a) A commercial establishment operated as a place of entertainment where the principal use is one or a combination of the following:

1. Live, recorded or televised entertainment;

2. Dancing; and

3. Magic, comedy or musicians.

(b) This definition does not include adult entertainment or the dispensing or consumption of alcoholic beverages. (See DRINKING ESTABLISHMENTS)

NON-CONFORMING BUILDING OR DEVELOPMENT. Any legally existing building or development which fails to comply with the current provisions of this chapter (see USE, NON-CONFORMING).

NON-ENCROACHMENT AREA. The channel of a river or other watercourse and the adjacent land areas that must be reserved in order to discharge the base flood without cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than one foot as designated in the flood insurance study report.

NOVELTY AND SOUVENIR STORES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing new gifts, novelty merchandise, souvenirs, greeting cards, seasonal and holiday decorations and curios.

NURSING, CONVALESCENT, ASSISTED LIVING FACILITY. A home for persons aged, ill or handicapped in which two or more persons not of the immediate family of the owner or manager of said home are provided with food, shelter and nursing care.

OIL AND GASOLINE BULK STORAGE. The storage on a zoning lot of 2,500 gallons or more of flammable liquid, or 2,000 gallons water capacity or more of flammable gas, excluding storage tanks, above ground as defined herein below.

OPAQUE BARRIER. A vertical structure constructed of masonry, concrete or wooden material which does not allow light to pass through.

OPEN SPACE. Any area which is not divided into private or civic building lots, streets, rights-of-way, parking or easements for purposes other than open space conservation.

OPEN SPACE, COMMON. Open space within a development, not in individually owned lots, which is designed and intended for the common use or enjoyment of the residents of the development.

OPEN STORAGE. Any area which contains trash collection areas or dumpsters, open air docks, outdoor storage of bulk materials and/or parts, or areas regularly used for outdoor repair areas or service stations, motor vehicle dealers or inspection stations, but excluding temporary construction and related activities and closed bay docks.

OPTICIAN and OPTICAL SUPPLY STORE. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in one or more of the following:

(a) Retailing and fitting prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses;

(b) Retailing prescription eyeglasses in combination with the grinding of lenses to order on the premises; and

OPTOMETRIST OFFICE. This industry comprises establishments of health practitioners having the degree of O.D. (Doctor of Optometry) primarily engaged in the independent practice of optometry. These practitioners provide eye examinations to determine visual acuity or the presence of vision problems, and to prescribe eyeglasses, contact lenses and eye exercises. They operate private or group practices in their own offices (e.g., centers, clinics) or in the facilities of others, such as hospitals or HMO medical centers. They may also provide the same service as opticians such as selling and fitting prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses.

OUTDOOR STORAGE. Includes the storage of materials, equipment, parts, supplies, and similar items related to a commercial or industrial business. OUTDOOR STORAGE does not include fully operational duly licensed and registered motor vehicles currently in use by persons working at or visiting the property.

OUTPARCEL SITE. A freestanding lot developed separately but linked functionally to a shopping center.

OVERLAY ZONING DISTRICT. A zoning district which overlays and combines with one of the principal zoning districts established by this chapter. In such case, the property involved is subject to the requirements of both districts.

PAINT AND WALLPAPER STORES. This industry comprises establishments known as paint and wallpaper stores primarily engaged in retailing paint, wallpaper and related supplies.

PAINT, VARNISH, AND FINISH MANUFACTURING. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in:

(a) Mixing pigments, solvents and binders into paints and other coatings such as stains, varnishes, lacquers, enamels, shellacs and water repellant coatings for concrete and masonry; and/or

(b) Manufacturing allied paint products such as putties, paint and varnish removers, paint brush cleaners and frit.

PAPER GOODS MANUFACTURING. This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in converting paper or paperboard without manufacturing paper or paperboard.

PAR 3 GOLF. A golf course that has at least nine holes, each with a tee, fairway, green and one or more hazards, but which is smaller scale than a traditional golf course. A clubhouse, pool and other facilities associated with a country club built around a golf course are considered part of the golf course.

PARK AND RIDE LOTS. The temporary storage of motor vehicles daily for persons traveling together to and from work either through carpools, vanpools or mass transit.

PARKING, COMMERCIAL. A principal use of a zoning lot with or without a parking structure for use as a place for the temporary or long-term parking of motor vehicles.

PARKS AND PLAYGROUNDS. These establishments are primarily engaged in the preservation and exhibition of natural areas or settings; and/or providing outdoor play facilities for children.

PARTICIPATORY FARMS. Farm-based, tourism-driven enterprises where individuals or groups pay to participate on a working farm or dude ranch.

PAWN SHOP. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing nondepository credit (except credit card issuing, sales financing, consumer lending, real estate credit, international trade financing and secondary market financing) through consumer cash lending secured by personal property.

PERSON. Any individual partnership, firm, association, joint venture, public or private corporation, trust, estate, commission, board, public or private institution, utility, cooperative, interstate body or other legal entity.

PERSONAL STORAGE BUILDING. A structure permitted by this chapter as a principle use in some zoning districts; to be used for non-commercial purposes including storage of equipment for maintenance of the property, recreational equipment or other items intended for the personal use of the owner or occupant.

PERSONNEL SERVICES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in supplying workers to clients’ businesses for limited periods of time to supplement the working force of the client. The individuals provided are employees of the temporary help service establishment. However, these establishments do not provide direct supervision of their employees at the clients’ work sites.

PET SHOP. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing pets, pet foods and pet supplies.

PHARMACEUTICALS MANUFACTURING. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in one or more of the following:

(a) Manufacturing biological and medicinal products;

(b) Processing (i.e., grading, grinding and milling) botanical drugs and herbs;

(d) Manufacturing pharmaceutical products intended for internal and external consumption in such forms as ampoules, tablets, capsules, vials, ointments, powders, solutions and suspensions.

PHOTOCOPYING SERVICES. This U.S. industry comprises:

(a) Establishments generally known as copy centers or shops primarily engaged in providing photocopying, duplicating, blueprinting, and other document copying services, without also providing printing services (e.g., offset printing, quick printing, digital printing, prepress services); and

(b) Establishments (except private mail centers) engaged in providing a range of office support services (except printing services), such as document copying services, facsimile services, word processing services, on-site PC rental services, and office product sales.

PHOTOFINISHING LABORATORIES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in developing film and/or making photographic slides, prints and enlargements.

PHOTOGRAPHY SERVICES AND STUDIOS. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing still, video or digital photography services. These establishments may specialize in a particular field of photography such as commercial and industrial photography, portrait photography and special events photography. Commercial or portrait photography studios are included in this industry.

PILLOW MANUFACTURING. These establishments are primarily engaged in manufacturing pillows.

PLACES OF ASSEMBLY. Establishments that are primarily engaged in providing facilities (indoor and/or outdoors) for special events of a social and/or business nature.

PLAN. The following definitions describe various plans required by this chapter.

(a) PLAN, COMPREHENSIVE. See definition for LAND USE PLAN.

(b) PLAN, COMPREHENSIVE TRANSPORTATION (CTP). A long term, long range transportation plan for municipalities, counties and large metropolitan areas (MPOs)

(c) PLAN, DETAILED DEVELOPMENT. A detailed development plan required when seeking a conditional use permit for wireless communication towers and manufactured home parks. Also required when developing within a special zoning district.

(d) PLAN, DEVELOPMENT. Required when seeking approval of a group development. The plan must be scaled, prepared and certified by a professional surveyor and/or design engineer.

(e) PLAN, FINAL. The final map of all or a portion of a site, showing the boundaries and location of proposed development activities and any other requirements or information of this chapter which is presented for local government approval and subsequent recordation with the Register of Deeds.

(f) PLAN, LAND USE. The comprehensive plan for the County of Surry that has been officially adopted by the Board of Commissioners pursuant to G.S. § 160D-501.

(g) PLAN, MASTER DEVELOPMENT. Depicts phases of development and general configuration and relationship of the principal elements of the proposed development and uses. The plan will include delineated areas where particular types of development or groups of buildings will be located, along with access and internal circulation through the development. A MASTER DEVELOPMENT PLAN is required for the approval of a group development and for any development involving multiple phases.

(h) PLAN, PRELIMINARY. A map indicating the proposed layout of the boundaries and location of proposed development activities and any other requirements or information found in this chapter, which is presented for preliminary approval. PRELIMINARY PLANS can be part of a process for development plans and for subdivision plats.

(i) PLAN, SITE. A scaled drawing and supporting text showing the relationship between lot lines and the existing or proposed uses, buildings, or structures on the lot. The site plan shall include site-specific details such as building areas, building height and floor area, setbacks from lot lines and street rights-of-way, intensities, densities, utility lines and locations, parking, access points, roads, and stormwater control facilities that are depicted to show compliance with all legally required development regulations that are applicable to the project and the site plan review. This definition distinguishes a SITE PLAN from a SITE-SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN or SUBDIVISION PLAT.

(j) PLAN, SITE-SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT. A plan which has been submitted to the county by a landowner describing with reasonable certainty the type and intensity of use for a specific parcel or parcels of property pursuant to G.S. § 160D-108.1. SITE-SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT PLANS shall be prepared by a registered surveyor, draftsperson or engineer. SITE-SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT PLANS are required for zoning amendments involving conditional zoning districts and for requests for special use permits. SITE-SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT PLANS may be used for requests for vested rights. This definition distinguishes a SITE-SPECIFIC DEVELOPMENT PLAN from a site plan or subdivision plat.

(k) PLAN, THOROUGHFARE. Any officially adopted thoroughfare plan.

PLANING MILLS. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in planing purchased lumber. These establishments generally use woodworking machinery such as jointers, planers, lathes and routers to shape wood.

PLANNED RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT. A residentially zoned area, planned and developed as a unit, which is characterized by environmentally sensitive design using flexible development standards.

PLANNING BOARD. The Planning Board of Surry County.

PLANTING AREA. An outdoor area, the surface of which may not be covered by impervious surface cover, such as asphalt, concrete or gravel, nor by structures, and must be devoted entirely to the planting and maintenance of trees, shrubs and groundcovers, or construction of fences, walls and/or earth berms.

PLASTIC PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING. This industry group comprises establishments primarily engaged in processing new or spent (i.e., recycled) plastics resins into intermediate or final products using such processes as compression molding, extrusion molding, injection molding, blow molding and casting. Within most of these industries, the production process is such that a wide variety of products can be made.

PLAT. A surveyed map or plan or a parcel of land which is to be or has been subdivided. A map or plan of a parcel of land which is to be, or which has been, subdivided.

PLAT, FINAL. The final map of all or a portion of a subdivision or site showing the boundaries and location of lots, streets, easements and any other requirements of the subdivision regulations, which is presented for local government approval and subsequent recordation with the Register of Deeds.

PLAT, PRELIMINARY. A map indicating the proposed layout of the subdivision or site showing lots, streets, water, sewer, storm drainage and any other requirements of the subdivision regulations which is presented for preliminary approval.

PLUMBING AND HEATING SUPPLIES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in wholesaling plumbing equipment, hydraulic heating equipment, household-type gas appliances (except gas clothes dryers) and/or supplies.

POLICE OR FIRE STATION. A facility established for public law enforcement purposes or public fire protection and prevention purposes.

POST-FIRM. Construction or other development which started on or after the effective date of the initial flood insurance rate map for the area.

POST OFFICE. A facility or structure used for the collection, sorting and distribution of mail within several zip code areas, having retail services for the general public, such as stamps, postcards or postal insurance.

POSTAL PROCESSING CENTER. A facility or structure used for the collection, sorting, processing and distribution of bulk mail or packages to other postal facilities or to the general public, and which may have some retail services for the general public, such as stamps, postcards or postal insurance.

POTTERY MANUFACTURING. These establishments are primarily engaged in manufacturing table and kitchen articles, art and ornamental items, and similar vitreous china, fine earthenware, stoneware, coarse earthenware and other pottery products.

POTTERY STORE. See the definition for CRAFT STORE.

PRE-FIRM. Construction or other development which started before the effective date of the initial flood insurance rate map for the area.

PRECISION INSTRUMENTS MANUFACTURING. These establishments are primarily engaged in manufacturing metalworking machinery such as metal cutting and forming machine tools; cutting tools; accessories for metalworking machinery; special dies, tools, jigs and fixtures; industrial molds; rolling mill machinery; assembly machinery; coil handling, conversion or straightening equipment; and wire drawing and fabrication machines.

PREMISES. A lot or parcel of real property where a business, profession, service, commodity, product, accommodation, event, attraction or other enterprise or activity or use exists or is conducted, manufactured, sold, offered, maintained or takes place.

PRINCIPAL BUILDING. See BUILDING, PRINCIPAL.

PRINCIPAL USE. See USE, PRINCIPAL.

PRINCIPALLY ABOVE GROUND. That at least 51% of the actual cash value of the structure is above ground.

PRINTING. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in printing on apparel and textile products, paper, metal, glass, plastics and other materials, except fabric (grey goods). The printing processes employed include, but are not limited to, lithographic, gravure, screen, flexographic, digital and letterpress. Establishments in this industry do not manufacture the stock that they print, but may perform post printing activities such as bending, cutting or laminating the materials printed, and mailing.

PRIVATE RECREATION CLUBS. An area or facility designed to meet the demand for active recreation, including play fields, ball diamonds, parks with picnic and playground equipment, par 3 golf courses, tennis courts, swimming pools, tot lots and similar uses, which are private.

PROCESSING PLANTS. These establishments are primarily engaged in transforming raw resources into end products suitable for consumption by the final consumer.

PRODUCE SALES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing fresh fruits and vegetables.

PROPERTY. All property subject to zoning regulations and restrictions and zone boundaries within the zoning jurisdiction of the county.

PROTECTED MOUNTAIN RIDGES. All mountain ridges whose elevation is 500 or more feet above the elevation of an adjacent valley floor.

PUBLIC. Under the control or responsibility of the elected body on behalf of the general population, rather than individual or private control.

PUBLIC RELATIONS SERVICES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in designing and implementing public relations campaigns. These campaigns are designed to promote the interests and image of their clients. Establishments providing lobbying, political consulting or public relations consulting are included in this industry.

PUBLIC SAFETY AND/OR NUISANCE. For the purposes of this chapter, anything which is injurious or presents the threat of injury to the safety or health of a community or neighborhood, or any number of persons, or unlawfully obstructs the free passage or use, in the customary manner, of any navigable lake, or river, bay, stream, canal or basin.

PUBLIC SEWER SYSTEM. An approved sewage disposal system, including municipal and sanitary district sewerage systems as well as “package” plants constructed in a location and to specifications approved by the Environmental Health Department in consultation with the NC Division of Health Services.

PUBLIC UTILITY FACILITY (LARGE-SCALE). Facilities of any agency which under public franchise or ownership, provides the general public with electricity, gas, oil, water, sewage, electronic signals or rail transportation. The term utility shall not be construed to include the following: corporate or general offices; storage or service buildings or yards; gas or oil processing, manufacturing or storage facilities; transmission towers; or postal facilities. Size of such facilities shall be no larger than 0.25 acres. Size of such facilities shall be 0.26 acres or greater.

PUBLIC UTILITY FACILITY (SMALL-SCALE). Facilities of any agency which under public franchise or ownership, provides the general public with electricity, gas, oil, water, sewage, electronic signals or rail transportation. The term utility shall not be construed to include the following: corporate or general offices; storage or service buildings or yards; gas or oil processing, manufacturing or storage facilities; transmission towers; or postal facilities. Size of such facilities shall be no larger than 0.25 acres.

PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY SYSTEM. An approved water supply system, including municipal and sanitary district water systems approved by the Environmental Health Department in consultation with the NC Division of Health Services.

PUBLISHING. These establishments are primarily engaged in the publishing of newspapers, magazines, other periodicals and books, as well as database and software publishing. In general, these establishments, which are known as publishers, issue copies of works for which they usually possess copyright.

QUARRY. See MINING, QUARRYING or RESOURCE EXTRACTION.

QUASI-JUDICIAL DECISION. A decision involving the finding of facts gained through sworn testimony regarding a specific application of a development regulation and that requires the exercise of discretion when applying the standards of the regulation. The term includes, but is not limited to, decisions involving variances, special use permits, and appeals of administrative determinations.

RADIO AND TELEVISION REPAIR. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in repairing and maintaining consumer electronics such as televisions, stereos, speakers, video recorders, CD players, radios and cameras, without retailing new consumer electronics.

RADIO AND TELEVISION STUDIOS. An establishment primarily engaged in providing two-way radio/telephone communication services, telephone voice and data communications, telegraph services, radio and television broadcasting or cable and other pay television services but excluding those uses classified as utilities.

RAILROAD STATION OPERATIONS. This U.S. industry comprises establishments known as line-haul railroads primarily engaged in operating railroads for the transport of passengers and/or cargo over a long distance within a rail network. These establishments provide for the intercity movement of trains between the terminals and stations on main and branch lines of a line-haul rail network (except for local switching services).

RAILROAD YARD OPERATIONS. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing specialized services for railroad transportation including servicing, routine repairing (except factory conversion, overhaul or rebuilding of rolling stock), and maintaining rail cars; loading and unloading rail cars; and operating independent terminals.

REAL ESTATE SERVICES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in acting as agents and/or brokers in one or more of the following:

(a) Selling real estate for others;

(b) Buying real estate for others; and

RECREATION AREA, COMMON. An area of open space which is required in certain types of developments for active or passive recreational uses.

RECREATION SERVICES, INDOOR. Establishments engaged in providing indoor amusement or entertainment services.

RECREATION SERVICES, OUTDOOR. Establishments engaged in providing outdoor amusement or entertainment services.

RECREATIONAL VEHICLE. A vehicular type unit primarily designed as temporary living quarters for recreational, camping, or travel use that either has its own motive power or is mounted on, or towed by, another vehicle. The basic entities are camping trailer, fifth-wheel travel trailer, motor home, travel trailer, and truck camper and similar items. This term shall not include a manufactured home.

RECREATIONAL VEHICLE SPACE. A plot of land within a recreational vehicle park or recreation club designed for the accommodation of one recreational vehicle, tent or other individual camping unit on a temporary basis.

RECYCLING COLLECTION CENTER.

(a) An incidental use that serves as a community drop off point for temporary storage of recoverable resources. No processing of such items is allowed. This facility would generally be in a shopping center parking lot or in other public or institutional areas, such as churches and schools.

(b) A facility that collects household garbage and recyclable items, with no processing of such items allowed on-premises, for temporary storage until they are transferred to a landfill or recycling plant; includes, but is not limited to, county operated facilities.

RECYCLING PLANT. Any facility at which recoverable resources, such as newspapers, magazines, books and other paper products; glass; metal and aluminum cans; waste oil; iron and steel scrap; automobiles; rubber and/or other products are altered, crushed, compressed, or treated at any stage in the recycling process.

REFERENCE LEVEL (FLOOD HAZARD AREAS). The portion of a structure or other development that must be compared to the regulatory flood protection elevation to determine regulatory compliance. For structures within special flood hazard areas designated as Zone A1-A30, AE, A, A99 or AO, the reference level is the top of the lowest floor or bottom of lowest attendant utility including ductwork, whichever is lower.

REFINERIES. A facility which produces petroleum-based products.

REGULATORY FLOOD PROTECTION ELEVATION. The elevation, in relation to mean sea level, to which the reference level of all structures and other development located within special flood hazard areas must be protected. Where base flood elevations (BFEs) have been determined, this elevation shall be the BFE, plus two feet of freeboard. Where no BFE has been established, this elevation shall be at least two feet above the highest adjacent grade.

REHABILITATION CENTER. A facility engaged in the treatment of substance abuse patients.

REMEDY A VIOLATION. To bring the structure or other development into compliance with the provisions of this chapter.

RENTAL OF MOTOR VEHICLES. An establishment primarily engaged in furnishing motor vehicle rental, leasing and parking services to the public.

REPETITIVE LOSS. Flood -related damages sustained by a structure on two separate occasions during any ten-year period for which the cost of repairs at the time of each such flood event, on the average, equals or exceeds 25% of the market value of the structure before the damage occurred.

RESEARCH ACTIVITIES. An establishment primarily engaged in commercial research and providing testing services such as calibration and certification of instruments, food testing services, forensic laboratories, metallurgical testing and industrial X-ray inspection services, and the like.

RESIDENT. Any person, as defined in this section, residing, doing business, or maintaining an office within Surry County.

RESIDENTIAL. Referring to permanent dwellings as defined herein.

RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT SALES (OFFICE ON-SITE). A temporary administrative office located on the site of a residential development for the purpose of selling those same properties.

RESORT. A group or groups of buildings, and outdoor assembly areas, that provides outdoor recreation activities that include, but are not limited to, golf, horseback riding, swimming, tennis, hiking, water sports, snow sports and similar activities. A RESORT may also furnish indoor recreation activities as well. A RESORT may furnish services customarily furnished by a hotel, including restaurants, cocktail lounges and convention facilities.

RESOURCE EXTRACTION (SAND, SOIL, CLAY). This industry comprises:

(a) Establishments primarily engaged in developing the mine site and/or mining, quarrying, dredging for sand and gravel or mining clay and soil, (e.g., china clay, paper clay, and slip clay); and

(b) Preparation plants primarily engaged in beneficiating (e.g., washing, screening and grinding) sand and gravel, clay, soil and ceramic and refractory minerals.

RESTAURANT (WALK-IN). An establishment which serves food and beverages primarily to customers seated at tables or counters located within the building or designated outdoor seating areas. This includes cafés, tea rooms and outdoor cafes.

RESTAURANT (WALK-IN, DRIVE-THROUGH SERVICE). An establishment which delivers prepared food and/or beverages to customers in motor vehicles, regardless of whether it also serves prepared food and/or beverages to customers who are not in motor vehicles, for consumption either on or off the premises.

RETAIL STORE. An establishment primarily engaged in selling merchandise for personal or household consumption not classified elsewhere.

REUPHOLSTERY. See FURNITURE REFINISHING AND REPAIR.

RIDGE. The elongated crest or series of crests at the apex or uppermost point of intersection between two opposite slopes or sides of a mountain, and includes all land within 100 feet below the elevation of any portion of such line or surface along the crest.

RIVERINE. Relating to, formed by or resembling a river (including tributaries), stream, brook, and the like.

ROADSIDE STAND. These stands located alongside roads are operated by vendors selling directly to consumers. The stands are operated as temporary and/or seasonal establishments. Fresh produce is commonly sold, among other items.

RODEO. These recreational venues provide a public exhibition of skill, often in the form of competition, in the riding of unbroken horses, the roping of calves and riding or wrestling with steers and the like.

ROOF PITCH. The slope of a roof typically expressed as a ratio of vertical inches to 12 horizontal inches (i.e., 8:12).

SADDLERIES. These establishments are primarily engaged in making and/or selling saddles.

SANITARIUMS and MENTAL INSTITUTIONS. A health station, retreat or an institution for the recuperation and treatment of persons suffering from physical or mental disorders.

SAWMILLS. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in sawing and otherwise producing dimension lumber, boards, beams, timbers, poles, ties, shingles, shakes, siding, mulch, and wood chips from logs or bolts. SAWMILLS may plane the rough lumber that they make with a planing machine to achieve smoothness and uniformity of size.

SCHOOL, ELEMENTARY/MIDDLE/HIGH. A structure used primarily by and for any two or more age or grade levels and operated by the public school system or approved by the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction as meeting the requirements of state law.

SCRAP PROCESSING. The process of converting rejected or discarded parts from manufacturing processes into fragments to become waste or to be used only as material for reprocessing.

SCREENING. The method by which the view from one site to an adjacent site is shielded or hidden. SCREENING techniques include buffers, berms and opaque fences or walls.

SEAMSTRESS, TAILOR, DRESSMAKER. These establishments are primarily engaged in sewing, mending and altering garments on a made-to-order basis for individual consumers, as opposed to the mass production of clothing to be retailed.

SECONDHAND STORE/SWAP SHOPS. These establishments are primarily engaged in selling used clothing and may include businesses such as consignment shops that split proceeds with the previous owners of goods in exchange for providing the marketplace.

SEDIMENTATION. Solid particulate matter, both mineral and organic, that has been or is being transported off the site of the land disturbing activity or into a lake or natural watercourse.

SEDIMENTATION AND EROSION CONTROL PLAN. Plan that shows the measures, structures or devices which control the soil material within the land area under responsible control of the person conducting the land disturbing activity (regulated by NCDEQ.)

SEPTIC SERVICES. A service provider who collects and disposes of solid and liquid wastes from private sewage disposal systems.

SERVICES, BUSINESS.

(a) An establishment primarily engaged in providing a service(s) to businesses and to a lesser extent, individuals. All merchandise and rental equipment is stored inside enclosed buildings.

(b) An establishment primarily engaged in providing services to commercial and business establishments. Operations may include large-scale facilities and storage of merchandise and equipment outside enclosed buildings.

SERVICES, HEALTH. Kidney dialysis centers, blood banks, birth control clinics, drug treatment centers and similar uses.

SERVICES, PERSONAL. An establishment primarily engaged in providing a service to individuals such as a beauty and/or barbershop, a dry-cleaning establishment, advertising, or computer service.

SETBACK. The minimum required horizontal distance between a structure and the lesser of either the lot line, street right-of-way line or the line that marks the beginning of street maintenance by NCDOT.

SETBACK LINES. The lines on the front, rear and sides of a lot which delineate the area within which a structure may be built and maintained according to the district regulations.

SHEET METAL SHOPS. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing sheet metal work (except stampings).

SHOE REPAIR AND SHINING. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in repairing footwear and/or repairing other leather or leather-like goods, without retailing new footwear and leather or leather-like goods such as handbags and briefcases.

SHOE STORES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing all types of new footwear (except hosiery and specialty sports footwear such as golf shoes, bowling shoes and spiked shoes). Establishments primarily engaged in retailing new tennis shoes or sneakers are included in this industry.

SHOPPING CENTER. A building or group of either connected or freestanding which is designed with common parking, pedestrian movement, ingress and egress, and used for the sale of merchandise or services to the public.

SIDE YARD. See YARD, SIDE.

SIGN. Any words, letters, figures, numerals, phrases, sentences, emblems, devices, designs, trade names or trademarks, used to promote an individual, firm, associations, corporation, profession, business, commodity or product. Any form of publicity which is visible from any public way, directing attention to an individual, business, commodity, service, activity or product, by means of words, lettering, parts of letters, figures, numerals, phrases, sentences, emblems, devices, designs, trade names or trademarks, or other pictorial matter designed to convey such information, and displayed by means of paint, bills, posters, panels or other devices erected on an open framework, or attached or otherwise applied to stakes, posts, poles, trees, buildings or other structures or supports.

(a) SIGN, AWNING (ON-PREMISES). An on-premises sign constructed of fabric-like, nonrigid material, which is a part of a fabric or flexible plastic awning framed and attached to a building.

(b) SIGN, GROUND (OFF-PREMISES). A freestanding sign which draws attention to or communicates information about a business, service, commodity, accommodation, attraction or other activity which is conducted, sold or offered at a location other than the premises on which the sign is located.

(d) SIGN, MARQUEE. Any canopy substantially framed in steel which is durably constructed and of sufficient strength and design to carry superimposed sign structures.

(e) SIGN, OFF-PREMISES. See SIGN, GROUND (OFF-PREMISES).

(f) SIGN, ON-PREMISES. A sign displaying information pertaining only to a business, industry, activity or profession located on the premises where the sign is displayed and pertaining only to the name of the business, type of product sold, manufactured or assembled, and/or service, activity or entertainment offered on said premises, including business identification and occupancy signs.

(g) SIGN PAINTING. These establishments are primarily engaged in painting signs to be used for advertising purposes.

(h) SIGN, PROJECTING (ON-PREMISES). An on-premises sign supported by a pole or other supporting structure, hanging from a building.

(i) SIGN, REAL ESTATE. A sign which is designed for the sale, lease, promotion and identification of real estate.

(j) SIGN, ROOF (ON-PREMISES). An on-premises sign located above the eaves and below the peak of the roof where the sign is located.

(k) SIGN, WALL (ON-PREMISES). An on-premises sign affixed to the wall of any building and completely in contact with the building throughout its greatest dimension, which does not extend beyond the main wall of the building more than 12 inches, except in accordance with these regulations.

SKATING RINKS. These establishments are primarily engaged in providing recreational skating facilities for ice skating, roller-skating and/or rollerblading.

SLAUGHTERHOUSE. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in slaughtering animals (except poultry and small game). Establishments that slaughter and prepare meats are included in this industry.

SLEEPING UNIT. A room or space in which people sleep, which can also include permanent provisions for living, eating, and either sanitation or kitchen facilities but not both. Such rooms and spaces that are also part of a dwelling unit are not sleeping units.

SMALL MOTOR REPAIR. These establishments are primarily engaged in repairing motors/engines for light machinery, cars and light trucks.

SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM (SES). The components and subsystems required to convert solar energy into electric or thermal energy suitable for use. For the purposes of this definition, this term applies only to solar photovoltaic (PV) systems and excludes private solar thermal systems and solar hot water systems. A system fits into one of the two system types: Level 1 SES or Level 2 SES.

(a) LEVEL 1 SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. Level 1 SESs include the following:

1. Roof mounted on any code-compliant structure.

2. Ground-mounted on an area of up to 50% of the footprint of the primary structure on the parcel but no more than one acre.

3. Covering permanent parking lot and other hardscape areas.

4. Building integrated solar (i.e., shingle, hanging solar, canopy, and the like).

(b) LEVEL 2 SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM. Level 2 SESs are ground-mounted solar collection systems not included in the definition of level 1 solar energy system, located on sites five acres or larger.

SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL FACILITY. Any facility involved in the disposal of solid waste, as defined in G.S. § 130A-290(a)(35).

SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL SITE. Defined as in G.S. § 130A-290(a)(36), any place at which solid wastes are disposed of by incineration, sanitary landfill or any other method.

SPECIAL FLOOD HAZARD AREA (SFHA). The land in the floodplain subject to a 1% or greater chance of being flooded in any given year as determined in this chapter.

SPECIAL USE PERMIT. A permit issued under quasi-judicial procedures to authorize development or land uses in a particular zoning district upon presentation of competent, material, and substantial evidence establishing compliance with one or more general standards requiring that judgment and discretion be exercised as well as compliance with specific standards.

SPECIFIED ANATOMICAL AREAS. Less than completely and opaquely covered human genitals or pubic region or female breasts uncovered below a point immediately at the top of the areola.

SPORTING GOODS STORE. These establishments are primarily engaged in selling new sporting goods such as bicycles and bicycle parts, camping equipment, exercise and fitness equipment, athletic uniforms, specialty sports footwear and related accessories.

SPRINGS MANUFACTURING. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in:

(a) Manufacturing steel springs by training techniques such as cutting, bending and heat winding metal rod or strip stock; and/or

(b) Manufacturing wire springs and fabricated wire products from wire drawn elsewhere (except watch and clock springs).

STABLE. These establishments are primarily engaged in:

(a) Selling horse rides and/or lessons; or

(b) Providing room and board for horses owned by others.

STADIUM, COLISEUM or EXHIBITION BUILDING. A structure or facility designed, intended or used primarily for public gatherings; indoor exhibitions, galleries or conventions; or indoor or outdoor spectator events including, but not limited to, professional and amateur sporting events, concerts, theatrical presentations, and motor vehicle racing.

STAINED GLASS SALES. These establishments are primarily engaged in wholesaling or retailing stained glass with no manufacturing.

START OF CONSTRUCTION.

(a) Includes substantial improvement, and means, for the purposes of this chapter, the date the building permit was issued, provided the actual start of construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition placement or other improvement was within 180 days of the permit date. The actual START means either the first placement of permanent construction of a structure on a site, such as the pouring of slab or footings, the installation of piles, the construction of columns or any work beyond the stage of excavation; or the placement of a manufactured home on a foundation. Permanent construction does not include land preparation, such as clearing, grading and filling; nor does it include the installation of streets and/or walkways; nor does it include excavation for a basement, footings, piers or foundations or the erection of temporary forms; nor does it include the installation on the property of accessory buildings, such as garages or sheds not occupied as dwelling units or not part of the main structure. For a substantial improvement, the actual START OF CONSTRUCTION means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor or other structural part of the building, whether that alteration affects the external dimensions of the building.

(b) For the purposes of this chapter, structure means a walled and roofed building, a manufactured home or a gas, liquid or liquefied gas storage tank that is principally above ground.

STEALTH TOWERS. A wireless communication tower designated and installed in such a manner that the antennae, supporting apparatus and associated structures are aesthetically and architecturally appropriate with respect to existing structures or the immediate environment in which the tower is located. Examples include antennas on church steeples, utility poles, bell towers, flagpoles and water towers; or antennae designed to resemble a tree or other natural objects.

STONE AND CLAY PRODUCTS. These establishments are primarily engaged in transforming stone, granite, marble and/or other natural stone products into end products such as curbing, without having mined the materials used.

STORM, TEN-YEAR. The surface runoff resulting from a rainfall of an intensity expected to be equaled or exceeded, on the average, once in ten years and of a duration which will produce the maximum peak rate of runoff for the watershed of interest under average antecedent wetness conditions.

STORM, 25-YEAR. The surface runoff resulting from a rainfall of an intensity expected to be equaled or exceeded, on the average, once in 25 years and of a duration which will produce the maximum peak rate of runoff for the watershed of interest under average antecedent wetness conditions.

STORM, 100-YEAR. The surface runoff resulting from a rainfall of an intensity expected to be equaled or exceeded, on the average, once in 100 years and of a duration which will produce the maximum peak rate of runoff for the watershed of interest under average antecedent wetness conditions.

STREAM BUFFER. A natural or vegetated area through which storm water runoff flows in a diffuse manner and which provides for infiltration of runoff and filtering of pollutants. The buffer is measured landward from the top of the bank defining the edge of the stream channel.

STREAM, PERENNIAL. A watercourse that flows year-round, including rivers, streams, lakes, and ponds, indicated as a solid blue line on the most recent version of USGS 7.5 minute (1:24,000 scale) topographic maps.

STREETS. See also THOROUGHFARE, CUL-DE-SAC.

(a) ARTERIAL STREET. A federal and/or state highway designed primarily for the movement of large volumes of vehicular traffic from one area to another: a thoroughfare.

(b) COLLECTOR STREET. A public way designed primarily to connect residential streets with arterial streets and/or to provide direct connection between two or more arterial streets, and which may be designed to carry significant volumes of vehicular traffic having neither origin nor destination on the street.

(c) COMMERCIAL/INDUSTRIAL STREET. A public way designed primarily to connect minor commercial/industrial streets with arterial streets and/or to provide direct connection between having neither origin, nor destination, on the street.

(d) MINOR STREET. A public way used primarily for providing direct access to abutting properties, and which does not have collector street characteristics. MINOR STREETS are further classified as:

1. COMMERCIAL-INDUSTRIAL. Those streets whose primary function is to provide direct access to commercial-industrial property.

2. CUL-DE-SAC. A short minor street having one end open to traffic and the other end permanently terminated with a vehicular turnaround.

3. RESIDENTIAL. Those streets whose primary function is to provide direct access to residential property.

4. STREET, HALF. A proposed vehicular travel way intended to be developed by constructing one-half of a required width of a street with the remainder to be provided at some future date.

(e) STREET, PRIVATE. A vehicular travel way, with direct access off a public street, not dedicated as a public street.

(f) STREET, PUBLIC. A public right-of-way for vehicular travel which has been constructed and then dedicated to and accepted by the North Carolina Department of Transportation for public use or which has been otherwise obtained by such agency for such use, or which is proposed to be constructed and then dedicated to and accepted by such agency as a public right-of-way for vehicular traffic for public use pursuant to this chapter. Street classifications are as follows:

STRUCTURE. Anything constructed or erected which is above grade including a manufactured home and a storage trailer. For purposes of this chapter, STRUCTURE does not include landscape features, such as ornamental pools, planting boxes, sculpture, birdbaths, open terraces, at-grade bridges and walkways, at-grade slab patios, driveways, walls or fences, shelters for pets, playhouses, open stairs, recreational equipment, flagpoles, underground fallout shelters, air-conditioning compressors, pump houses, wells, mailboxes, privies, outdoor fireplaces, gate houses, burial vaults, cemetery markers or monuments, bus shelters or wharves.

STRUCTURE, ACCESSORY. A structure detached from a principal building on the same zoning lot, the use of which is customarily incidental to the principal building. Accessory dwelling units are considered ACCESSORY STRUCTURES for the purposes of zoning dimensional standards and development standards. This includes freestanding satellite dishes, any other devices which access satellites and amateur radio antennae. Items excluded include doghouses, fences and other minor personal property.

SUBDIVIDER. A person engaging in the act of subdividing property.

SUBDIVISION. All divisions of a tract or parcel of land into two or more lots, building sites or other divisions when any one or more of those divisions are created for the purpose of sale or building development (whether immediate or future), and includes all divisions of land involving the dedication of a new street or a change in existing streets. This chapter shall apply to new and existing subdivisions submitted to the Development Services Department, approved by the Planning Board, and approved by the Board of County Commissioners. This chapter shall apply to subdivisions where individual lots are held for sale, lease, rent, whether improved or unimproved.

1. The combination or recombination of portions of previously subdivided and recorded lots where the total number of lots is not increased and the resultant lots are equal to or exceed the standards of this chapter;

2. The division of land into parcels greater than ten acres where no street right-of-way dedication is involved;

3. The public acquisition by purchase of strips of land for the widening or opening of the streets or for public transportation system corridors;

4. The division of a tract in single ownership whose entire area is no greater than two acres into not more than three lots or tracts, where no street right-of-way dedication is involved or proposed, and where the resultant lots are equal to or exceed the standards of this chapter; and

5. The division of a tract into parcels in accordance with the terms of a probated will or in accordance with intestate succession under G.S. Ch. 29.

(b) SUBDIVISION, MAJOR. Any subdivision that is not a minor or exempt subdivision.

(c) SUBDIVISION, MINOR. A minor subdivision is a subdivision which contains eight five or fewer lots, each lot fronting with access on a state-maintained street or road.

SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE. Damage of any origin sustained by a structure during any one-year period whereby the cost of restoring the structure to its before damaged condition would equal or exceed 50% of the market value of the structure before the damage occurred. See definition of “substantial improvement”. SUBSTANTIAL DAMAGE also means flood -related damage sustained by a structure on two separate occasions during a ten-year period for which the cost of repairs at the time of each such flood event, on the average, equals or exceeds 25% of the market value of the structure before the damage occurred.

SUBSTANTIAL IMPROVEMENT. Any combination of repairs, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition or other improvement of a structure, taking place during any one-year period for which the cost equals or exceeds 50% of the market value of the structure before the “start of construction” of the improvement. This term includes structures which have incurred “substantial damage”, regardless of the actual repair work performed. The term does not, however, include either:

(a) Any correction of existing violations of state or community health, sanitary or safety code specifications which have been identified by the community code enforcement official and which are the minimum necessary to assure safe living conditions; or

(b) Any alteration of a historic structure; provided that, the alteration will not preclude the structure’s continued designation as a historic structure.

SUPERMARKET. Food markets or combination food markets and department stores with more than 3,000 square feet of floor area.

SURVEYOR. A person licensed to practice surveying in the State of North Carolina.

SWIMMING POOL, PRIVATE. A swimming pool intended for the private, non-commercial use of a property owner(s), homeowner’s association, residential development or club.

SWIMMING POOL, PUBLIC. A swimming pool intended for use by the public, traditionally operated within a public park by a local government.

TALL BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES. Any building, structure or unit within a multi-unit building, with a vertical height of more than 40 feet measured from the top of the foundation of said building, structure or unit and the uppermost point of said building, structure or unit; provided, however, that, where such foundation measured from the natural, finished grade of the crest or the natural, finished grade of the high side slope of a ridge exceeds three feet, then such measurement in excess of three feet shall be included in the 40 feet limitation described herein; provided, further, that, no such building, structure or unit shall protrude at its uppermost point above the crest of the ridge by more than 35 feet. TALL BUILDINGS OR STRUCTURES do not include:

(a) Water, radio, telephone or television towers or any equipment for the transmission of electricity or communications or both;

(b) Structures of a relatively slender nature and minor vertical projections of a parent building, including chimneys, flag poles, flues, spires, steeples, belfries, cupolas, antennas, poles, wires, or windmills; and

TEA HOUSE. See COFFEE HOUSE.

TESTING STANDARDS (WIRELESS COMMUNICATION TOWERS). Testing agencies: American National Standards Institute (ANSI), Electronics Industry Association (EIA) and the Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA).

TEXTILE FINISHING AND DYEING.

(a) This industry comprises:

1. Establishments primarily engaged in finishing of textiles, fabrics and apparel; and

2. Establishments of converters who buy fabric goods in the grey, have them finished on contract, and sell at wholesale.

(b) Finishing operations include bleaching, dyeing, printing (e.g., roller, screen, flock, plisse), stonewashing and other mechanical finishing such as press making, shrinking, sponging, calendering, mercerizing and napping; as well as cleaning, scouring and the preparation of natural fibers and raw stock.

TRANSPORTATION NETWORK. Networks of transportation links, services and facilities which collectively are of statewide importance though these individual corridors, facilities or services which make up the network may be of only local or regional significance. Examples include highways, rail, public transportation, aviation and bicycle systems.

THOROUGHFARE. Any street designated on the adopted thoroughfare plan or any street which is an extension of any street on the thoroughfare plan, and which extends into the area not covered by the THOROUGHFARE PLAN.

TIRE RECAPPING SHOPS. These establishments are primarily engaged in refurbishing tires.

TOBACCO PRODUCTS MANUFACTURING. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in manufacturing cigarettes, cigars, smoking and chewing tobacco, and reconstituted tobacco.

TOBACCO SHOP. This U.S. industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing cigarettes, cigars, tobacco, pipes and other smokers’ supplies.

TOWER ACCESSORY STRUCTURE. A structure or structures, such as water towers, utility towers, advertising, signs, farm silos, large buildings such as hospitals, multiple story complexes, church steeples, and the like, equipped to support attached wireless communication towers.

TOWNHOUSE. A one-family dwelling unit, with a private entrance, which is part of a structure whose dwelling units are attached horizontally in a linear arrangement and having a totally exposed front and rear wall to be used for access, light and ventilation.

TRACT. All contiguous land and bodies of water being disturbed or to be disturbed as a unit, regardless of ownership.

TRAILER, TRAVEL. See RECREATIONAL VEHICLE.

TRANSFER COMPANIES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in providing local general freight trucking. General freight establishments handle a wide variety of commodities, generally palletized and transported in a container or van trailer. Local general freight trucking establishments usually provide trucking within a metropolitan area that may cross state lines. Generally, the trips are same-day return.

TREE SERVICE. A service provider who engages in the destruction of trees by cutting, girdling or interfering the water supply, by applying chemicals, or regarding around the trunk of the tree.

TRUCK, FARM EQUIPMENT, HEAVY EQUIPMENT SALES AND SERVICE. These establishments are primarily engaged in sales or service of heavy equipment such as transfer trucks, tractors, backhoes, dump trucks, and the like.

TRUCK/FREIGHT TERMINAL. Any facility for handling freight, with or without storage and maintenance facilities.

UPHOLSTERING SHOPS. These establishments are primarily engaged in finishing or repairing furniture with fabric and any associated stuffing materials.

USE. The purpose or activity for which land or structures are designed, arranged or intended, or for which land or structures are occupied or maintained, including any such activity with respect to the requirements of this chapter.

USE, ACCESSORY. A use or activity which is customarily incidental to a specific principal use, and which is located on the same zoning lot as the associated principal use except for off-site parking or other uses provided for by this chapter.

USE, NON-CONFORMING. Any use not permitted in the zoning district in which it is located, which lawfully exists by virtue of the fact that it existed on 9-17-2001, or lawfully existed as of the effective date of this chapter or subsequent amendments, and which has not been discontinued under the provisions of this chapter.

USE, PRINCIPAL. Those uses of land listed in the Table of Uses (§ 154.007-01). Also referred to as a PERMITTED USE.

USE, TEMPORARY. A use which may be in a zoning district not allowing the use on a permanent basis, after issuance of a permit specifying a limited duration for the use.

USGS. United States Geological Survey.

UTILITY COMPANY OPERATION CENTER. Industries in the utilities subsector which provide electric power, natural gas, steam supply, water supply and sewage removal through a permanent infrastructure of lines, mains and pipes.

VACUUM CLEANER REPAIR. These establishments are primarily engaged in repairing vacuum cleaners without retailing new vacuum cleaners.

VARIANCE. An action requesting consideration for relief from the strict enforcement of the standards of this chapter where special circumstances or unusual considerations may exist on the parcel of land.

VARIETY STORES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing new goods in general merchandise stores (except department stores, warehouse clubs, superstores and supercenters). These establishments retail a general line of new merchandise such as apparel, automotive parts, dry goods, hardware, groceries, housewares or home furnishings, and other lines in limited amounts, with none of the lines predominating.

VENDING COMPANIES. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in retailing merchandise through vending machines that they service.

VESTED RIGHT. A right pursuant to G.S. §§ 160D-102, 160D-108(c), and 160D-108.1 to undertake and complete the development and use of property under the terms and conditions of an approved site specific development plan.

VICTORIAN STYLE. Any product or style used during the years 1837–1901. Architectural styles of the period include Eastlake, Gothic Revival, High Victorian Gothic, Italianate, Queen Ann, Renaissance Revival and Richardsonian Romanesque. Features included: polychrome masonry exteriors with bays, towers and turrets; typically, with contrasting colors and/or textures of brick or stone. Also known as VICTORIAN GOTHIC.

VIOLATION. The failure of a structure or other development to be fully compliant with the provisions of this chapter. A structure or other development that is not in full compliance with this chapter shall be presumed to be in VIOLATION of this chapter until such time as documentation is provided to refute any presumed violation.

WAREHOUSING. Establishments primarily engaged in the warehousing and storage of general merchandise, refrigerated goods and farm products.

WASTE. Surplus materials resulting from on-site construction and disposed of at other locations.

WATCH, CLOCK, AND JEWELRY REPAIR. This industry comprises establishments primarily engaged in repairing and servicing without retailing watches, clocks and jewelry.

WATER SUPPLY WATERSHED. An area from which water drains to a point of impoundment and the water is then used principally as a source for a public water supply.

WATER SURFACE ELEVATION (WSE). The height, in relation to mean sea level (depth above existing grade in case of Zone AO), of floods of various magnitudes and frequencies in the floodplains of coastal or riverine areas.

WATERCOURSE. A lake, river, creek, stream, wash, channel or other topographic feature on or over which waters flow at least periodically. WATERCOURSE includes specifically designated areas in which substantial flood damage may occur.

WATERSHED PROTECTION ORDINANCE. The Surry County Watershed Protection Ordinance.

WETLANDS. Areas inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support and, under normal circumstances, do support a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions. WETLANDS generally include swamps, marshes, bogs and similar areas.

WHOLESALE DISTRIBUTION. These establishments are wholesalers primarily engaged in reselling products to other wholesalers.

WHOLESALE STORE. These establishments are primarily engaged in re-selling products to retail establishments.

WINERY, BREWERY OR DISTILLERY. A manufacturing facility or establishment engaged in the processing of fruits, hops, or other grains to produce wine, wine-like, or distilled beverages.

WINERY, BREWERY OR DISTILLERY TASTING ROOM. A facility in which wine products used in the making of beverages are grown or processed on the owner’s property may be tasted and sold. This definition shall also include the following associated uses as permitted: gift/retail sales, assembly areas, meeting rooms, dining and catering facilities, and a restaurant facility, if expressly requested and permitted.

WIRELESS COMMUNICATION TOWER. Any tower transmitting or receiving signals, including, without limitation, telephonic, radio, television, cable television or microwave signals. Non-commercial towers, not exceeding 35 feet and which are intended for personal private use by the property owner, are exempt from these regulations. See § 154.008.

WOOD CLAPBOARD. One of a series of wood boards used for siding or roofing; most often has a tapered cross section. This form of construction dates to the mid-1700s and refers to a thin, rived board, four to five feet in length, used as weatherboard.

WOODWORKING FABRICATION SHOP. A small-scale (3,000 square feet or less) facility, which is engaged in the shaping of wood and similar materials.

WOODWORKING PLANT. A large-scale (greater than 3,001 square feet) facility, which is engaged in the shaping of wood and similar materials.

YARD. Any area of land located between a lot line and a required setback line. The minimum depth of a YARD shall be determined by horizontal measurement at a right angle from the applicable lot line.

(a) YARD, FRONT. The yard extending across the full width of the lot and lying between the front lot line and the front setback line as required in this chapter.

(b) YARD, INTERIOR SIDE. The yard extending along the length of the lot between the required front yard and the required rear yard, and between the side lot line and the side building setback line, as required in this chapter; provided that the side lot line is not adjacent to a public street right-of-way.

(c) YARD, REAR. The yard extending across the full width of the lot and lying between the rear lot line and the rear building setback line as required in this chapter.

(d) YARD, SIDE. An open, unoccupied space situated between the sideline of the building and the adjacent sideline of the lot and extending from the rear line of the front yard to the front line of the rear yard.

(e) YARD, STREET SIDE. The yard extending along the length of the lot between the required front yard and the required rear yard adjacent to a public right-of-way or private access easement and between the side lot line and the side building setback line as required in this chapter.

ZERO LOT LINE. A common lot line on which an interior or exterior wall of a structure may be constructed which distinguishes the property line.

ZONING ADMINISTRATOR. Individual, or individuals, appointed by the County Manager, charged with the administration of this chapter to the public. The Development Services Director shall also be considered a ZONING ADMINISTRATOR.

ZONING DISTRICT. A portion or section of the county, outside the land use jurisdiction of any municipality, for which the regulations and provisions governing the use of buildings and lands are uniform for each class of uses permitted therein. May also be referred to as a GENERAL USE ZONING DISTRICT or a PRINCIPAL ZONING DISTRICT in this chapter.

ZONING LOT. A lot, or portion thereof, within a single zoning district shall be considered and treated as one zoning lot.

ZONING ENFORCEMENT OFFICER. Designee or such other person in the Development Services Department as the adopting jurisdiction may designate as the officer principally responsible for the enforcement of this chapter.

ZONING PERMIT. A permit issued by the Zoning Officer or his or her designee which authorizes the recipient to use or occupy a tract of land or a structure; or to erect, alter or install a structure or sign which fully meets the requirements of this chapter.

(Ord. passed 9-17-2001; Ord. passed 3-17-2003; Ord. passed 5-5-2003; Ord. passed 5-29-2003; Ord. passed 12-1-2003; Ord. passed 5-17-2004; Ord. passed 8-16-2004; Ord. passed 2-21-2005; Ord. passed 4-18-2005; Ord. passed 1-17-2006; Ord. passed 7-20-2009; Ord. passed 5-17-2009; Ord. passed 11-1-2010; Ord. passed 4-20-2015; Ord. passed 9-19-2016; Ord. passed 8-21-2017; Ord. passed 12-7-2020; Ord. passed - -2021; Ord. passed 4-17-2023)

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