In granting approval or conditional approval of a conditional use for a zero lot line single-family detached residential development, the Board of Zoning Appeals shall prepare written findings of fact that the proposed use shall comply with the following standards in addition to other criteria applicable to conditional uses generally:
1. Minimum Size.
No zero lot line development shall include fewer than twelve lots. Zero lot line design shall not apply to isolated individual lots in areas of conventionally sited dwellings.
2. Yards.
Only a rear yard and/or a single side yard, but no front yard, may be reduced to zero.
Yards on adjacent lots may not both be reduced to zero if they abut the same side lot line.
If a side yard is reduced to zero, the remaining side yard shall have a minimum width of fifteen feet.
3. Wall Maintenance Easement.
A perpetual wall maintenance easement shall be provided in every yard that is adjacent to a zero side yard in an adjoining lot.
The easement shall be four feet in width measured from that portion of the lot line that is adjacent to a building on the other lot.
The easement shall be shown on the plat and incorporated into each deed transferring title to the property. Proof of recording of such easements shall be submitted to the Zoning Administrator prior to issuance of a building permit.
Obstructions otherwise permitted in interior side yards are allowed within the easement provided they do not impede access to the wall on the adjacent lot for painting, cleaning, maintenance and repair.
Roof overhangs may project up to two feet into the easement on the adjacent lot, but the roof shall be so designed that water runoff onto the other lot is confined to the easement area.
4. Wall Openings.
No windows, doors, air conditioning units or other openings shall be permitted on the side of a building abutting a zero side yard.
5. Orientation.
Where possible, the building wall abutting the zero side yard should face north to allow maximum use of the remaining yards for outdoor activities at different times of the year.
6. Varied Height and Setback.
Where possible, front yard depth, building height and roof lines should be varied to avoid monotonous appearance, which is more objectionable when homes are closer together and lots are smaller.
7. Block Length.
Where possible, shorter blocks and cul-de-sac streets should be used to reduce the monotony of site design.
8. Open Space.
Any common open space areas provided shall meet requirements for ownership, maintenance, upkeep, covenants and financial guarantees specified in this Zoning Code for common open space in Planned Unit Developments.
(Ord. 87-94. Passed 7-27-87.)