§ 5.2. Definition of Zoning Districts.

Latest version.

In order to protect the character of existing neighborhoods, to prevent excessive density of population in areas which are not adequately served with water, sewerage facilities, and fire protection; to ensure that adequate and suitable areas will be available in Port Wentworth to provide housing for growing population, and to protect residential areas from blighting effects of the traffic, noise, odors, and dust generated by commercial and industrial activity; to provide for and accommodate growth and expansion of commercial and industrial activities; to prevent blight and slums, and to promote orderly growth and development by grouping unrelated uses together and by separating dissimilar and unrelated uses; and in order that the various other purposes of this ordinance may be accomplished, there are hereby established within Port Wentworth the following zoning districts:

R-A Residential-Agriculture. The purpose of this district is to protect those more rural areas within Port Wentworth for future urban development and to protect certain rural highway roadside areas against strip development which can lead to traffic congestion, traffic hazards, and roadside blight.

R-1 One-Family Residential. The purpose of this district shall be to create an environment in which one-family dwellings, and certain nonresidential uses, are permitted in order to promote stability and character of low density residential development with adequate open space. A maximum density of four (4) dwelling units per gross acre of residential land area shall be permitted in this district.

R-1-A One-Family Residential, Medium Density. The purpose of this district shall be to create an environment in which one-family dwellings and certain nonresidential uses are permitted in order to promote the stability and character of medium density of six (6) dwelling units per gross acre of residential land area shall be permitted in this district.

R-2 Two-Family Residential. The purpose of this district shall be to create an environment in which only one-family, two-family, three-family, and four-family dwellings and certain nonresidential uses are permitted in order to promote the stability and character of medium density residential development with functional open space. A maximum density of twelve (12) dwelling units per gross acre of residential land area shall be permitted in this district.

R-M Multifamily Residential. The purpose of this district shall be to provide areas for multifamily development and compatible nonresidential development. The net dwelling unit density for this zone shall be established at the time of rezoning; but shall be not more than eighteen (18) units per gross acre.

R-M-H Residential-Mobile Home Park. The purpose of this district shall be to establish a residential district in which the uses and regulations are restricted in order to permit the development of mobile home parks in a manner which protects and preserves property values of adjacent properties. Such uses shall comply with the Mobile Home Park Regulations for the City of Port Wentworth.

RMH-1 Residential-Mobile Home. The purpose of this district shall be to establish a residential district in which the uses and regulations are restricted to permit the development of mobile homes and single-family residences and certain compatible nonresidential uses, and to permit the development in a manner which protects and preserves property values of adjacent properties. This district shall be used for areas where development is sparse and where such use will help to stabilize or to upgrade the area. This zone may be used on a lot-by-lot basis to allow mobile homes where placement of the mobile home will not adversely affect surrounding property values or impair the purposes and intent of the Zoning Ordinance.

R-I-P Residential-Institutional. The purpose of this district shall be to create an area in which residential, institutional, and professional uses can be intermixed and at the same time achieve a healthful living environment with functional open space. A maximum density of twelve (12) dwelling units per gross acre of residential land area shall be permitted in this district.

C-1 Neighborhood-Business. The purpose of this district shall be to create an area in which certain types of convenience-shopping-retail sales and service uses can be established and at the same time prevent nuisances or hazards created by vehicular movement, noise or fume generation, or high intensity use detrimental to adjacent residential development.

C-2 Community-Business. The purpose of this district shall be to provide community shopping facilities consisting of a wide variety of sales and service facilities at locations that will be accessible to the Port Wentworth market area.

C-3 General-Business. The purpose of this district shall be to create and protect areas in which heavy commercial and certain industrial-like activities are permitted.

C-3/4 Adult Entertainment Facility. Any commercial establishment where adult entertainment is sponsored, allowed, encouraged, condoned, presented, sold, or offered to members of the public over eighteen (18) years of age.

I-1 Industrial. The purpose of this district shall be to create and protect areas for those industrial uses which do not possess objectionable characteristics such as causing heavy truck traffic, odor, noise, dust, etc., which might be detrimental to surrounding neighborhoods, or to the other uses permitted in this district. The following listed uses which are allowed in this district are required to follow procedures and standards outlined in the I-2 zoning district: distribution facilities, warehouses, container yards, and truck terminals. (Ord. No. 06-11, 4-27-06)

I-2 Industrial.

Definition. The purpose of this district shall be to create and protect areas in which industries which are not permitted in an I-1 district can be permitted.

Application Requirements.

General. All applications for rezoning to an I-2 zoning district are subject to review and approval by the Planning Commission and Mayor and Council pursuant to the application requirements and development standards of this section and Articles IX and XI of this ordinance.

Preliminary Development Plan. A Preliminary Development Plan shall be provided with any application for rezoning to an I-2 zoning district. The Preliminary Development Plan shall include a Development Impact Assessment and a Preliminary General Site Plan.

Development Impact Assessment. The Development Impact Assessment is a study that discusses the projected impacts on municipal improvements and facilities and natural and historic resources, and the fiscal impact on the City. A Development Impact Assessment shall be prepared by the developer and submitted as part of the application for General Development Plan approval. The format of the Development Impact Assessment shall be as follows:

Economic Development Zone.

Purpose. The purpose of this zoning classification is to facilitate the efforts of local and State economic development authorities to bring sustainable manufacturing facilities and high paying jobs to the region. Such facilities should be sensitive to the local natural environment. The public service needs of such facilities should be consistent with the community's ability to provide service.

Permitted Uses. The permitted uses in the EDZ are economic development projects of the Georgia Department of Economic Development and the Savannah Economic Development Authority. These agencies are responsible for recruiting certain community beneficial industries listed below and further defined in the North American Industry Classification System, United States, 1997 and are hereby incorporated by reference:

333 Machinery Manufacturing

334 Computer and Electronic Product Manufacturing

335 Electrical Equipment, Appliance, and Component Manufacturing

336 Transportation Equipment Manufacturing

337 Furniture and Related Product Manufacturing

339 Miscellaneous Manufacturing

Accessory Uses. Incidental storage of manufacturing process input and final products Development Plans Required. Storage of material other than those involved in the manufacturing process are prohibited. Leasing or subleasing to other companies of space for purposes of storage of any kind is prohibited in this zoning classification.

Development Plans Required. Proposed EDZ Districts and developments shall submit both a general and specific development plans for review by the Planning Commission and approval by Mayor and Council.

General Development Plans. All applications for the EDZ classification shall be accompanied by a proposed general development plan. In the case of a City initiated rezoning, the Port Wentworth Planning Commission shall prepare a general development plan for recommendation to Mayor and Council. Approval of the rezoning request by Mayor and Council shall constitute approval of the generalized development plan.

Specific Development Plans. The specific development plan shall comply with the approved general development plan, provided that the Mayor and Council may approve alterations to the plan upon a finding that the character and intent of the approved generalized plan are being met. The specific development plan shall show all existing natural features and proposed built features. The specific development plan shall meet the standards of the City of Port Wentworth Design Manual as well as State or Federal regulatory requirements.

Economic Development Performance Standards:

Along with the submittal for the Specific Development Plan, an economic and fiscal impact analyses must be provided.

The economic impact analyses must be performed using IMPLAN and conducted by a certified economic developer, an economist, or urban planner employed by Georgia Department of Economic Development, Savannah Economic Development Authority, or a university on behalf of these two agencies. The economic impact analyses for the project must indicate that there is a positive impact for the County.

The fiscal impact analyses must be performed using LOCI and conducted by a certified economic developer, an economist, or urban planner employed by Georgia Department of Economic Development, Savannah Economic Development Authority, or a university on behalf of these two agencies. The economic impact analyses for the project must indicate that there is a positive impact for the City of Port Wentworth.

The average wage for employees of the industry can never fall below the average wage for Chatham County.

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DEVELOPMENT IMPACT ASSESSMENT FORMAT

Executive Summary

II.

Introduction, Project Description, Objectives, Environmental Setting

III.

Projected Impacts and Mitigation Alternatives

Fiscal. The developer should estimate and quantify the additional revenues and costs to the City of Port Wentworth as a result of the proposed development.

Fiscal analysis involves assessing the public service costs and revenues associated with the development. Such an analysis projects the net cost of the development on the fiscal balance sheet of the community. Since fiscal feasibility plays an important role in determining whether or not to proceed with a proposed development, fiscal impact analysis is a critical component of any development impact assessment.

Community Facilities.

Water supply and distribution. The developer shall provide an estimate of water supply needs including domestic and for adequate fire flow protection. The developer shall indicate any anticipated improvements necessary to accommodate the proposed development. The developer shall provide all assumption used in calculations.

Wastewater collection and treatment. The developer shall provide a quantitative estimate of sewage. The developer shall indicate any anticipated improvement necessary to accommodate the proposed development.

Solid waste. The developer shall provide a quantitative estimate of the solid waste generated by the proposed development. The developer shall provide assumptions used in all calculations.

Stormwater management. The developer shall prepare all components of Article III. Stormwater Management, Section (5), Subsections (a) and (b) of the Code of Ordinances, City of Port Wentworth. The remaining requirements of Article III. Stormwater Management shall be submitted in the Specific Development Plan. A discussion of the adequacy of the receiving stormwater conveyance shall be provided.

Stormwater quality. The developer shall provide narrative discussing measures that will be used to preserve and/or improve the physical, chemical, biological or radiological integrity of stormwater runoff from the proposed development.

Schools. The developer shall provide narrative discussing the impact to the local school system if any.

Parks and recreation. The developer shall provide narrative discussing impact to the municipal parks and recreation facilities or programs.

Public safety (police and fire). The developer shall provide narrative discussing impacts, including special needs, required of public safety services provided by the City of Port Wentworth.

Traffic impact study. The Traffic Impact Study shall be prepared by the developer to ensure traffic facilities are capable of accommodating a new development. Preparation of the Traffic Impact Study is the responsibility of the developer and should be a requirement of local planning or zoning ordinances.

The Traffic Impact Study should be prepared by a qualified, experienced and registered transportation engineer with specific experience in traffic and transportation engineering. The preparer should have experience in forecasting and analyzing traffic needs for developments and roadways.

The Traffic Impact Study shall be reviewed by the City's Engineer and the Director of Public Works. The Traffic Impact Study shall conform to the following format:

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TRAFFIC IMPACT STUDY FORMAT

Introduction

Who prepared the report.

Proposed development land use.

Peak traffic hours identified.

Study area. The Study Area should incorporate the following:

All traffic controlled intersections adjacent to facility.

All roads, ramps and intersections through which at least 5% of peak hour capacity at an intersection approach will be composed of trips generated by the proposed development.

Roadway sections where accident potential or residential traffic will be significantly impacted.

Design year (when facility is fully occupied).

Proposed access points.

II.

Existing Traffic Conditions

Street network adjacent to site.

Functional classifications.

Route jurisdiction.

Number of lanes.

Intersections adjacent to site, especially at access points.

Geometrics and characteristics.

Existing intersection traffic control.

Signal timing and system operation at signalized intersections.

Traffic counts during peak hours at intersections within the study area.

Accident data.

Existing site access points and configurations.

III.

Site-Related Traffic Generation and Distribution

Trip generation for proposed development. Identify trip generation rates used and source.

Traffic generated during peak hours.

Traffic distribution for design year. Consider whether inbound and outbound trips will have similar distributions.

Discuss method used for traffic assignments and assumptions used for assignment of traffic network. Traffic assignments are to reflect logical routing, realistic roadway capacity and left turns at critical intersections.

IV.

Forecast of Off-Site Traffic Volumes

Off-site through traffic volumes, using projected annual growth rate.

Identify known developments in study area, in planning or construction phase, whose traffic is to be included in impact calculations. Identify any comprehensive land use plans, community development plans, long range plans or similar documents for proposed land uses.

Off-site traffic forecast for design year, adjusted for known developments in study area.

Traffic Assignments

Assignment of peak period traffic to intersections and access points.

Figures for existing peak impact hours traffic, site traffic, and total traffic.

VI.

Review of Site Plan

Access points (entrance and exit locations), required driveway lanes and required queuing distances.

Capacity at access points should be sufficient so traffic entering site does not back up onto the adjacent street.

The distance of access points to existing driveways and intersections should be evaluated.

Is there adequate horizontal and vertical sight distance at access points?

Are there adequate left-turn lanes on adjacent roadways at proposed access points?

Internal roadway circulation and on-site traffic control.

Building locations, parking layout, pedestrian routes and building entrance locations.

Truck service bays, staging areas, loading dock locations and design truck used.

VII.

Traffic Analysis

Total projected traffic volumes for design year. Include site and non-site forecasts.

Capacity analysis during peak hours for access points and for intersections in the study area.

Identify any roadway segments or intersections that will be deficient in capacity after development.

Identify any safety related concerns and neighborhood impacts.

VIII.

Summary of Findings and Recommendations

This section may be listed in outline form and should convey the following:

Travel demand generated by the proposed new development.

Deficiencies in existing and proposed transportation systems.

Improvements needed to maintain acceptable levels of service.

Include any recommendations for site access and transportation improvements that would maintain traffic flow to, from, within, and past the proposed development at an acceptable and safe level of service. Safe and efficient movement of traffic to and from and within and past the new development, while minimizing impact to non-site trips, should be the objective.

Environmental Quality.

Noise.

Study. The developer shall provide a noise study that includes the following:

A 24-hour base-line survey of existing ambient noise levels (Leq) at or near the property boundaries at intervals of not more than 300' feet.

ii.

Estimated noise level data for the proposed development, with supporting documentation.

iii.

A plat depicting the expected acoustic impact of the proposed development in 5-decibel increments.

Required improvements. Where the noise generated by the proposed development is expected to exceed 55 dB(A) at any point along the property line, the developer shall provide a detailed proposal for noise-reduction measures, including, but not limited to, berms, sound-absorbing barriers, and vegetative buffers, and shall depict said improvements on the Preliminary General Site Plan submitted as part of the General Development Plan.

Jurisdictional and Nonjurisdictional Wetlands. The developer shall provide a narrative discussion of the wetlands on the site, jurisdictional and nonjurisdictional wetlands to be filled, preserved wetlands, and wetland buffers (with acreage calculations in table format). The discussion shall also include method of wetland mitigation. The developer shall also include copies of permits received from U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Floodplain. (Reserved).

Waters of the State. (Reserved).

Historic Resources. (Reserved).

Comprehensive Plan. To ensure that a proposed development is consistent with the City of Port Wentworth's Comprehensive Plan, the development impact assessment should include an analysis of whether the proposed development either meets or does not conform to the goals and objectives set forth in the Comprehensive Plan, Short-Term Work Program, the Port Wentworth Water Supply Management Plan, and the Solid Waste Management Plan. Specific examples how the development meets or furthers the goals and objectives of these plans should be included.

Proposed Operating Plan. The development impact assessment must include a written report outlining the proposed schedule of development and industrial operation, including, but not limited to, the nature of the operation, proposed operating hours, shift schedules, if any, number of employees, and such other information regarding the industrial operation as may be necessary for the city to evaluate the application for re-zoning and the impact upon the city.

Appendices. Appendices should be organized similarly to the above organization of the document body.

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Preliminary General Site Plan. The developer shall provide a preliminary general site plan that includes, at a minimum, the following components:

Compass reference.

Vicinity map.

Location of existing and proposed streets, drives, and ingress and egress easements.

Topographical survey data.

Soil classifications.

Location of proposed stormwater detention facilities.

Location of proposed building and parking improvements.

Location of proposed noise reduction measures.

Specific Development Plan. Following approval of a rezoning application to an I-2 zoning district approval of the Preliminary Development Plan, no development shall take place until a detailed Specific Development Plan, and subdivision plat if applicable, have been submitted to and approved by the Port Wentworth Planning Commission and City Council. The Specific Development Plan shall be consistent with the Preliminary Development Plan as approved by Mayor and Council and shall conform to the development standards set forth in subsection (4) below, specific conditions of rezoning, if any, and all other ordinances and regulations of the City of Port Wentworth, and shall include the following items:

Title Sheet.

Development name and proposed phase.

Owner's and engineer's name, address, phone number.

Sheet content schedule with page numbers.

General location map.

Each sheet signed by registered engineer.

Plan scale shown on each sheet.

Staking/Layout Plan.

Centerline curve data and station #'s @ 100'.

Location of all easement.

Location relative to existing/future phases.

Adjacent property owners shown.

Flood elevation statement shown with zone limits.

Existing and proposed lot lines (if applicable).

Traffic signage (including those internal streets).

Location of development signs (business and entrance/exit).

Grading, Drainage, and Paving Plan.

Development Standards. All development in an I-2 zoning district shall be conducted in accordance with the development standards herein and in conformance with the approved Preliminary Development Plan.

Landscape Buffers.

Landscaped buffers have been designed for the perimeter property line of the I-2 district and the perimeter property lines of parcels within the development in order to protect and preserve the appearance, character and value of property within the I-2 district and the adjoining tracts.

The intent of the buffer is to achieve a softening effect through the use of existing and supplemental vegetation. The buffer may be enhanced or created, where such vegetation is insufficient or nonexistent, with trees and shrubs of a variety and species appropriate to the area. Where groupings of native shrubs are present, their preservation with minimum disturbance is strongly encouraged.

The buffered areas shall be measured from the perimeter property lines or street rights-of-way lines. These buffers are to remain preserved in their natural state. No buildings, parking, storage or unauthorized clearing will be allowed in the buffer areas.

General Landscape Requirements.

It is the intent of the I-2 district for landscaping and natural terrain to be maintained and controlled, in order to provide a uniform and compatible appearance of improved areas located throughout the I-2 district. The Preliminary Development Plan submitted to the Port Wentworth Planning Commission will include a landscaping and irrigation plan. Each owner/applicant/developer shall install and maintain at its expense a twenty-foot Landscape Buffer located adjacent to all dedicated roads or main private roads within the I-2 district.

To the extent reasonably practicable, each owner will be required to employ berming in conjunction with landscaping in order to screen parking and vehicular turn areas.

All ground, with the exception of walks, drives, parking facilities, and service areas, will be landscaped in a manner that is complementary to the architecture, provides the required screening and forms an attractive transition to the natural landscape features of the site.

Ground occupied by trees to be preserved may not require additional landscape treatment.

After the completion of construction on any parcel in the I-2 district, any additional landscaping site work desired to be undertaken by the owner, which is not contained within the approved plans, may be completed without additional approval.

Minimum Required Building Setback Area. It is the intent to preserve or improve upon the natural existing vegetation in all setback areas. Any disturbance of existing vegetation in setback areas shall be shown on the development plan and approved by Mayor and Council. The minimum required building and parking setback area is set forth in the tables below.

Adjacent Zoning District
		R-1, R-A, MPO, RIP	C-1	C-2, C-3	I-1
I-2	Minimum Distance	100'	50'	30'	N/A
Adjacent Street Setback
		State Highway	Local Streets	Internal Roads to be Dedicated	Internal Roads to Remain Private
Structure (including buildings and parking)	Minimum Distance	30'	50'	50'	20'

Building Height. Building height shall not exceed forty (40) feet, excluding antennas, HVAC and mechanical improvements, and decorative facades, measured from the minimum elevation required by FIRM/FEMA or average predevelopment grade where no FIRM/FEMA floor elevation is established.

Parking.

All parking lots and driveways shall be surfaced with asphalt, concrete, or brick. Concrete curbs and gutters will be required throughout the Development.

The parking ratios established in Section 4.10 Off-Street Automobile Parking and Storage of the Port Wentworth Zoning Code shall be observed as minimum design guidelines.

No parking or other vehicular surface will be closer than twenty (20) feet to a building line except in the case of an automobile drop-off, a loading area, or a vehicular entry into the building. This is in consideration of a five-foot sidewalk and fifteen-foot landscaped area minimum.

Access and Service Areas.

The site shall have direct access to a State or U.S. Highway or arterial street.

No curb cut nor any access/egress drive or easement shall be allowed within two hundred fifty (250) feet of any existing curb cut or street intersection.

No access drive will be closer than twenty-five (25) feet to any existing street right-of-way, nor closer than fifteen (15) feet from any adjacent parcel unless adjoining parcel owners work together to share an access road located on or near a common property line, and shall meet all other requirements of best practices for traffic engineering.

Acceleration and/or deceleration lanes and/or turning lanes may be required in accordance with standards and specifications established by the Georgia Department of Transportation.

All exterior service, and utility areas (including water tanks and cell towers, but excluding transformers) will be located at the side or rear of the buildings and will be screened or sheltered so as not to be visible from the street right-of-way. A good faith attempt will also be made to provide such screening and sheltering from adjacent parcels.

Stormwater.

A Stormwater Management Plan consistent with stormwater drainage will be collected on site and controlled by concrete curbs and gutters, with properly designed piping and ditches, and released at approved locations. All drainage systems will conform to applicable codes.

Stormwater drainage plans shall be designed by a professional engineer registered in the State of Georgia and shall conform to standards of the City of Port Wentworth and the State of Georgia.

A Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan for the development shall be prepared and approved by the City Administrator before a Certificate of Occupancy is provided.

Parking Lot Lighting. All lighting fixtures designed or placed so as to illuminate any portion of a site shall meet the following requirements:

Fixture (luminaire). The light source shall be completely concealed within an opaque housing and shall not be visible from any street right-of-way.

Light source (lamp). Only incandescent, florescent, metal halide, or color corrected high pressure sodium may be used. The same type must be through the development.

Mounting. Each fixture must be mounted in such a manner that its cone of light does not cross any property line of the site.

Illumination levels. All site lighting shall be designed so that the level of illumination as measured in footcandles (fc) at any one (1) point meets the standards in the table below.

	Minimum Level	Average Level	Maximum Level
Parking Lot	0.2 fc	1.5 fc	10.0*

* Exception: The maximum permitted illumination shall not exceed one (1) footcandle at the residential property line or the street curb.

Measurement. Minimum and maximum levels are as measured at any one (1) point. Average level is not to exceed value calculated using only the area of the site intended to receive illumination.

Height. All lights for purposes of illuminating parking lots shall not exceed thirty (30) feet in height. Lights exceeding thirty (30) feet in height will be permitted in areas provided for the maneuvering of trucks, location of special equipment, or areas designated for storage. In no case shall lights exceed forty (40) feet unless approved by the Port Wentworth Planning Commission.

General Architectural Character. The architectural design philosophy of the I-2 district is to create a homogeneous environment through the use of consistent land planning, respect for natural assets of each parcel and the development of architecturally compatible structures. Continuity in aesthetic values and environmental sensitivity will insure the highest standards in the City of Port Wentworth in the I-2 district. To achieve these goals, the following guidelines shall be observed:

Utilize professionals qualified in the fields of planning, architecture, landscape architecture, engineering and/or surveying.

Pursue building designs that utilize and complement the natural character of the site.

Place emphasis on the aesthetics of exterior and landscape design.

Insist on high-grade, superior quality construction with emphasis on good craftsmanship.

Exterior Building Materials.

The required materials used in connection with the exterior of the primary buildings, or associated structures, to be high quality and compatible in design and material components with all other structures within the I-2 district. The exterior building materials shall include Tilt Up Concrete panels, Split Faced block, Brick on Block or a combination of Tilt Up Concrete (minimum height ten (10) feet) and metal panel construction. The use of materials such as nondecorative concrete block, corrugated metal or pre-engineered metals installed with exposed fasteners will be prohibited in connection with the construction of the exterior of any buildings or other improvements.

Buildings should have architectural features and patterns that provide visual interests and reduce massive aesthetic effects. The elements in the following standard should be integral parts of the building fabric, and not superficially applied trim or graphics, or paint.

Building facades shall include a repeating pattern that shall include no less than three (3) of the elements listed below. At least one (1) of these elements shall repeat horizontally:

•

Color change.

•

Texture change.

•

Material change.

•

Expression of architectural detail through a change in plane no less than twelve (12) inches in width, such as an offset, reveal, or projecting rib.

Exterior Equipment. Exterior equipment such as storage tanks, cooling towers, transformers, antennae, electronic receivers and other similar equipment and facilities, including those located upon the roof of structures, shall be allowed if appropriately screened. Equipment shall be located so as to minimize visibility, to an extent reasonably practical, from adjacent parcels and streets. The materials used for screening shall be compatible in architectural design and aesthetics to building materials employed in construction of the primary building and other improvements to the parcel.

Noise. Public address systems are prohibited. Operators of this use shall ensure that no residentially zoned district receives levels of noise beyond seventy (70) decibels between 6:00 a.m. and 7:00 p.m. The maximum receiving noise between 7:01 p.m. and 5:59 a.m. shall be fifty-five (55) decibels.

Licensed Architect or Engineer. All building plans shall be prepared under seal by an architect or engineer licensed to practice in the State of Georgia.

Variances. Any variances from the standards contained herein shall be approved by City Council after review and recommendation by the Port Wentworth Planning Commission.

(Ord. No. 05-08, § 2, 7-15-05)

P Planned Overlay District. The purpose of this district shall be to provide areas within which comprehensive development plans shall be prepared and reviewed by the Planning Commission in order to secure an orderly development pattern. This district shall be considered an "overlay" district and the uses permitted in such "overlay" district shall be those permitted in the zoning district which it overlays. Property may be rezoned to a "P" classification on a finding by the Planning Commission that:

Such rezoning would be in the community's interest.

Unplanned and uncoordinated development could result in potential problems in such areas as traffic flow, schools, recreation, open spaces, and public facilities.

To insure an orderly growth and development, it is appropriate to require approval of specific development plans by the Planning Commission.

PUD-M Planned Unit Development.

Definition. Any multifamily development consisting of townhouses, apartments, or condominiums of three (3) acres or more. Single-family detached, single-family semi-detached, duplexes, and senior citizens congregate housing development shall also be permitted in this district.

Permitted Uses.

Multifamily dwellings, including townhouses, apartments, or condominiums.

Single-family detached dwellings (under R-1 standards).

Two-family dwellings (duplex).

Senior citizen congregate housing.

Conversion for Senior Citizens Congregate Housing. Where the proposed number of senior citizens congregate units exceeds the number of conventional dwelling units which are permitted under the base zoning density for the site, a conversion plan shall be submitted to and approved by the Port Wentworth Planning Commission as an integral part of the initial master site plan. Such plan shall show how the approved number of congregate units will be converted into dwelling units if the congregate use is terminated in the future. A detailed floor plan for each typical converted dwelling structure and unit, deed restrictions and protective covenants shall be made a part of the conversion plan. The conversion of a senior citizens congregate housing development to a multifamily residential use, shall be permitted only in compliance with an approved conversion plan.

Conversion from Senior Citizen Congregate Housing: Such conversion shall occur only in compliance with the base zoning density standard established for the particular PUD-M district or as shown on an approved, recorded conversion plan which is a part of the approved master plan.

General Design Standards. Within PUD-M districts, the following general design standards shall apply to all development except as noted herein:

Density: The net dwelling unit density for the development shall be established at the time the property is rezoned. The density to be established shall be recommended by the Port Wentworth Planning Commission, but shall not be more than twenty-five (25) units per net acre, with the following exceptions:

Provided the Planning Commission may approve an increase in the number of units permitted within the development of up to one hundred (100) per cent of the net density as shown on the zoning map for the property in question, where the development is to consist solely of senior citizens congregate housing, provided that no more than fifteen (15) per cent of the total units have two (2) or more bedrooms and that no efficiency or one-bedroom units have greater than six hundred (600) square feet of livable floor area.

In establishing a density standard for PUD-M development, the Port Wentworth Planning Commission shall consider the following conditions among others:

The traffic that shall be generated if the development is compared to another zoning classification.

Capacity of the water and sewer system to accommodate the development.

The approved density shall be stated on the official zoning map at the time the property is rezoned.

Net density per acre calculations are not to include streets, drives, or parking areas.

Calculations may include up to twenty (20) per cent marshland, lowlands, or wetlands (six (6) feet MSL).

Street Frontage:

The number and location of curb cuts along arterial and collector streets shall be determined by the Traffic Analysis Study for the proposed development and approved by the City Engineer. In no case shall any street intersection be within two hundred fifty (250) linear feet of another intersection.

Minimum development setback requirements: The minimum building setback requirements shall be as set forth elsewhere herein for the various types of development, provided that along arterial and collector streets, the following minimum setbacks shall prevail:

Arterial: Thirty-five (35) feet from the right-of-way.

Collectors: Twenty (20) feet from the right-of-way.

Spacing of Units:

Front and rear faces of buildings must be minimum of fifty (50) feet from the front or rear of another building.

Alignment: No dwelling unit shall be situated so as to face the rear of another unit within the development unless there is a terrain difference or sufficient vegetation to provide an effective visual buffer or unless the rear facade is architecturally designed to eliminate the "rear facade" appearance.

Parking:

Off-street parking shall meet the requirements of Section 4-10, Off-Street Automobile Parking and Storage; provided, that for senior citizens congregate housing developments, one (1) parking space per unit shall be required.

Intermittent landscape shall be provided within rows of parking.

Parking for townhouse, apartment, condominium, and other multifamily development may be provided for individual units or in a common lot with a maximum walking distance of two hundred (200) feet from the nearest parking space to the main entrance of the building intended to be served.

Parking lots shall be designed so that vehicles are not required to back into a street and shall be separated from the street by a landscaped area of not less than ten (10) feet.

Preservation of Common Areas: A developer or homeowner's association established by the developer, by recorded covenants and restrictions running with the land, shall preserve and maintain for the owners and occupants of the units, any land set aside for open space, buffers, parks, or recreation use, water retention areas, and common off-street parking streets spaces established for the development. (Unless such responsibility is legally assumed by a unit of government.)

Building Orientation: Multifamily structures shall be located and designed so that the height and arrangement of such structures on the site will not adversely impact the privacy of any adjacent or nearby lower density residential development.

Specific Development Standards. Within PUD-M districts, the following development standards shall apply for the particular residential development type:

For Single-Family Detached Development Under R-1 Standards: Such development shall comply with the standards for R-1 zoning districts.

For Single-Family Patio Lot Development: The standards for single-family detached development under R-1 zoning districts shall apply except that a zero side yard setback shall be permitted on one (1) side of the lot, provided that the required spacing between buildings is maintained.

For Two-Family (Duplex) Development: The minimum development standards shall comply with the R-2 development standards, provided two-family development shall not face across a street into single-family development or property zoned for strictly single-family development.

For Townhouse, Apartment, Condominium, and Other Multifamily Development: The minimum development standards shall be as follows:

Open space: Common open space (excluding streets, drives, and parking areas) is to be not less than twenty (20) per cent of the total development.

Recreation facilities: Common recreational activity areas are to be provided and equipped in scale with the recreational needs of the residents of the development. Such areas are to be a part of the required common open space. A minimum of one hundred thirty-five (135) square feet of developed recreational space shall be provided for each dwelling unit identified in the development plan, provided that no required recreational space shall be less than four thousand (4,000) square feet in area. Recreational space is to be aggregated and located in readily accessible sites and shall be identified on the approved development plan.

Buffers and screening: A twenty-five-foot natural or landscaped buffer shall be provided adjacent to every exterior property line excluding portions abutting a street right-of-way. Where the development property line abuts a residential use or a zoning district which permits one-family and two-family residential uses, this buffer shall be not less than fifty (50) feet. This is to be maintained as part of the common open area for the development. Provided, however, where like-kind or similar type development adjoins, a buffer shall not be required. No development or utilities, except for a fence approved by the Port Wentworth Planning Commission, shall be located within a required buffer area.

Minimum spacing between buildings: Minimum spacing between the side of buildings shall be not less than twenty (20) feet.

Maximum density: Maximum density for townhouse, apartment, condominium, or other multifamily developments shall not exceed the PUD-M density established for the district at the time of rezoning.

Business Permitted Within PUD-M Districts. Within PUD-M districts containing not less than five hundred (500) dwelling units, business and service uses intended to meet the daily convenience needs of the residents of the development are permitted as set forth herein. However, no construction permit for such activities shall be issued until after the minimum required five hundred (500) dwelling units are under construction.

Allowable Business and Service Uses:

Food stores.

Drug stores.

Barber and beauty shops.

Restaurants.

Gift shops.

Floral shops.

Professional offices.

Laundromat.

Or similar uses approved by the Port Wentworth Planning Commission.

Design Standards:

Total floor area shall not exceed ten (10) square feet per dwelling unit within the PUD.

Building area including the building coverage, landscaping, and parking areas shall not amount to more than three (3) per cent of the PUD-M developable area.

Location of permitted uses:

Structures shall be set back not less than one hundred fifty (150) feet from residential structures.

Parking areas shall be appropriately screened and set back at least seventy-five (75) feet from residential structures.

Street frontage: Areas designated for business and service use shall front onto an arterial or collector street within the development. Such uses shall not be established across a street from property lying outside the boundaries of the PUD or adjacent to properties lying outside the PUD.

PUD-O Planned Unit Development—Office.

Land under unified control to be planned and development in single development operation or a definitely programmed series of development operations; such development may include a program for establishment, operation, and maintenance of common open spaces, areas, facilities, and improvements available for common use by occupants of the district; and,

A development consisting of principal and accessory structures and uses substantially related to the character of the district, which will be developed according to comprehensive and detailed plans for streets, utilities, lots or building sites, and the like.

Any development for office use that abuts a residential district (i.e., R-A, R-1, R-1-A, R-2, R-M, R-M-H, RMH-1, R-I-P District), will remain in character with the surrounding neighborhood and that any replacement or alteration of existing buildings must be approved by the Port Wentworth Planning Commission. All new buildings will be similar in design, height, position and materials of the surrounding homes and approved by the Planning Commission prior to construction.

P-D-N Planned Development for Nonconforming Use.

Intent. The purpose of this district shall be to create an area where nonconforming uses exist in other defined districts and are found by the Planning Commission to be likely to continue indefinitely. It is intended to make possible rezoning of such non-conforming uses to P-D-N status as a means for encouraging improvements and controlling further development or redevelopment.

Initiation and Processing of Planned Development for Rezoning for Certain Nonconforming Uses. Planned development rezoning of nonconforming uses of the kind described above may be initiated by the owner of the property or his authorized agent, or by the governing body, or by the Planning Commission. Such amendments shall be processed as provided generally in Article IX of these Regulations. Except in zones created for residential use, such nonconforming use(s) shall not be changed to another nonconforming use. Changes in uses within a residential zone may occur only upon a review by the Planning Commission and approval of Mayor and Council that the new use(s) does not create any greater negative impacts on the adjacent properties and street network than did the original or previous nonconforming use(s).

Materials to Accompany Amendment Proposals for Certain Nonconforming Uses. Materials to be submitted shall be provided in Article IX and shall include specifically a plan showing existing structures and uses as located on the premises and as related to structures and uses within fifty (50) feet on immediately adjoining premises not separated from the property by a street or alley, and on premises immediately across streets or alleys to the front, side, or rear of property. Said plan shall conform to the design standards set forth in this Section and shall subject to review and approval of the Planning Commission.

Design Standards.

Access: Access shall be located, designed, and improved for safety, convenience, efficient circulation on the property, and minimum interference with normal traffic flow on adjoining streets.

Yards: Yards shall be provided as required for adjoining district and in residential neighborhoods such required yards shall be landscaped and improved in a manner appropriate to the residential character of the adjacent district.

Limitations on Increase of Lot Coverage: The structure(s) housing such nonconforming use shall not be expanded to more than fifty (50) per cent lot coverage.

Off-Street Parking and Loading: Off-street parking, loading, and service areas shall meet the requirements of Article IV of this ordinance.

Signs and Lighting:

Signs shall be oriented away from residential property in such areas to the maximum extent reasonably feasible.

Lighting of signs and premises shall be directed, controlled, and screened in a manner appropriate to the surroundings of the use.

Signs shall be scaled in relation to size, bulk, and purpose of the structure being expanded.

Any question or regulation not covered in items a)—c) above shall be referred to Chapter 19.1 of the City Ordinances for the City of Port Wentworth entitled "Signs".

Buffering and Screening Required When Adjoining Property is Residential: Where a surface off-street parking lot and off-street loading and service facility abut a side or rear property line of any lot, or is across a public right-of-way from a lot upon which there exists as a principal use a one-family or two-family dwelling structure permitted in the zoning district in which located, there shall be provided along the lot line, excluding approved driveways, a continuous visual buffer with a minimum height of three (3) feet. The buffer may be a compact evergreen hedge or other type of dense foliage screening, or may be brick, masonry, or other decorative wood wall. No such buffer shall be required along a public lane.

Other Considerations: In addition to matters covered above, the recommendations and actions shall give due consideration to the relation of the nonconforming use to existing and potential future surrounding development, and shall establish such additional conditions and safeguards as are necessary in the circumstances of the case. Such conditions and safeguards may include, among other things, outdoor storage, operational activity, provisions for seclusion of garbage and trash, and limitations on number of vehicles parked on the premises and the number of employees working on the site for a given time period.

MPO Master Plan Overlay. The purpose of this district shall be to assure continuity of development with the Port Wentworth Master Plan, as envisioned by the Port Wentworth citizens and City Council. This overlay district shall provide for review of all developments within this district.

Intent. The intent of this section in establishing the overlay districts is to promote orderly development which implements the urban design concepts of the City of Port Wentworth Master Plan; promote human-scale development and mixed but compatible land uses; promote economic development of the city, promote high quality development; minimize safety hazards to vehicles and pedestrians; and enhance the quality of life for Port Wentworth's citizens.

1.1

Definition of Districts. These districts shall be collectively referred to as the Master Plan Design Districts, as amended, and defined as specified below.

Phase 1. The area bordered by Highway 21 to the east, Highway 30 to the south, the western Norfolk Southern rail line to the west, and the Chatham/Effingham County line to the north.

Phase 2. The area bordered by Highway 21 to the west, the Chatham/Effingham County line to the north, Interstate 95 to the east, and the intersection of Highway 21 and Interstate 95 to the south.

Phase 3. The area bordered by Phase 1 to the north (Norfolk Southern rail line and Highway 30), the Chatham/Effingham County line to the east, Highway 30/Meinhard Road to the south, and Interstate 95 to the east.

1.2

Additional Definitions. These definitions are supplemental to and/or supercede definitions of the existing Port Wentworth Zoning Ordinance, Article III, and Article XV, Section 2.

Arborist. A person who has been trained in the business of diagnosing, treating, pruning, and tree removal. A certified arborist shall be certified by the International Society of Arboriculture.

Carport. A roofed structure providing space for the parking of motor vehicles and enclosed on not more than three (3) sides.

Cartway. The area of a street intended for vehicular travel, commonly referred to as traffic lane.

Critical Root Zone (CRZ). The area containing the roots of a tree that must be protected for tree survival.

Diameter Breast Height (DBH). The total diameter, in inches, of a trunk or trunks, in the case of trees with multiple trunks, measured four and one-half (4½) feet above existing grade.

Garage, Private Residential. A structure that is accessory to a residential building and that is used for the parking and storage of vehicles owned and operated by the residents thereof and that is not a separate commercial enterprise available to the general public.

Grand Tree. A tree twenty-four (24) inches or greater DBH, excluding conifers.

Protected Tree. A tree eight (8) inches or greater DBH, excluding conifers.

Specimen Tree. A tree that is of significant size for that species as determined by an arborist, landscape architect, forester or other tree professional.

Setback. The distance between the principal building and any lot line.

Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND). A comprehensive planning system resembling development patterns dominant in the early twentieth century. Features include a wide variety of housing types to promote diverse neighborhoods and mixed land uses to allow educational, civic and office buildings, and retail establishments within walking distance of private homes. The transportation network is an interconnected system of streets and paths designed to be suitable for pedestrians and bicycles as well as automobiles. Equal attention is given to the public and private spaces creating a balanced community that services a wide range of homes and business owners. The addition of civic buildings and the reservation of open space in a TND enhance community identity and value.

Yard. The open space on a lot situated between the principal building on the lot and the lot line. In measuring a yard for determining the width of a side yard, the depth of a front yard, or the depth of a rear yard, the minimum horizontal distance between the lot line or sidewalk and principal building shall be used, excluding stoops, exterior stairs, and windows.

Yard, Front. Area between the principal building and front lot line

Yard, Perimeter. A yard which surrounds the principal building on all four (4) sides

Yard, Rear. Area between the principal building and the rear lot line.

Yard, Side. Area between the principal building and the side lot line.

General Considerations.

2.1

Background. The City of Port Wentworth is undergoing a revitalization effort to reverse the trends of declining population that have occurred over the past ten years. The current heart of Port Wentworth is being impacted by activities of the neighboring Georgia Ports Authority, related private sector industries, and other impacts that are unsuitable for a residential area. These activities have resulted in acquisition of private homes and increased truck traffic on South Coastal Highway, which was once the city's commercial center. The City of Port Wentworth offers little to new businesses, other than industrial uses, or residents in the proximity of the core city. For this reason, the City is looking at the areas addressed through this overlay district as the focus of future development for Port Wentworth. These areas are largely undeveloped, with the exception of small pockets of residential development. Current expansion of water and sewer infrastructure will help foster development in this area.

2.2

Guiding Principles. In order to foster growth that will lead to the type of community desired by the citizens of Port Wentworth, the City is preparing a master plan for development. This master plan is being developed based on the principles of traditional neighborhood development (TND). Over the past several decades, traditional zoning has promoted segregated land uses, excessive minimum lot sizes, and disconnected street patterns. These characteristics have largely contributed to traffic congestion, excessive reliance on automobile ownership, social inequity, and inefficient land use. Through the use of TND principles, the master plan will result in a community of connected neighborhoods with a distinct town center, rather than a series of isolated subdivisions and strip shopping centers. Certain areas will encourage residential units above retail shops, while other areas will allow a neighborhood store in close proximity to single-family housing. Neighborhoods will be connected through a grid street pattern and a multi-purpose trail system.

2.3

Application Procedure. Projects in the Master Plan Design Districts that require subdivision must first prepare a master plan to be reviewed by the City. All master plans require review and approval by the Port Wentworth Planning Commission and City Council. The Port Wentworth Planning Commission has primary responsibility for review of proposed projects in the Master Plan Design Districts. It is strongly recommended that the property owners or developers submit the master plan of the proposed project to the Port Wentworth Planning Commission for informal staff review prior to their submittal of the final Master Plan and application. Staff is available to meet with property owners or developers. Conceptual designs may take the form of dimensioned sketches, or may be more refined. However, the graphics should enable staff to determine if there are obvious conflicts with applicable codes and regulations.

Standard applications for zoning changes, ground disturbance permits, sign permits, and building permits shall be utilized for proposed projects in the Master Plan Design Districts. All applications within the boundaries of these districts shall clearly state that the project is located within the (appropriate name) Master Plan Design Districts. Procedures mandated in the City of Port Wentworth Zoning Ordinance, City of Port Wentworth Subdivision Ordinance, Section 5, and the Standard Building Code (SBCC) shall be followed.

2.3.1

Approval. Approval by the Mayor and Council of the City of Port Wentworth of the Master Plan for a parcel submitted by an applicant shall establish the basic right of use and design for that parcel. Subsequent submittals of site plans, preliminary plats, and final plats shall be reviewed on the basis of consistency with the Master Plan. Street layout and location may vary from the approved Master Plan provided that street types comply with Section 3.

2.4

Determination of applicable code requirements. Whenever a conflict exists between the requirements of the Master Plan Overlay District and any other section of the City of Port Wentworth Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance, the requirements of the Master Plan Overlay District apply.

2.5

Reserved.

2.6

Uses.

Neighborhood multifamily residential: Applies to a building of multiple dwelling units that is architecturally similar to a single-family residential structure in scale and character.

Neighborhood commercial: Applies to commercial and office spaces intended to serve local neighborhoods and designed to promote pedestrian activity. Drive-through windows are prohibited.

Community commercial: Applies to commercial and office intended to serve the community of Port Wentworth and the region of Chatham County and surrounding counties.

Auto-oriented commercial: Applies to commercial or office spaces in freestanding buildings, with accommodations for automobiles such as drive-through windows.

Accessory uses: Any use that is permitted in the district shall be permitted as an accessory use.

Assisted living facilities: Facilities used for the primary use of senior citizens, designed to provide independent living quarters with meals, personal care, and supervision of self-administered medication.

Bed and breakfast: Overnight accommodations and a morning meal in a dwelling unit provided to transients where meals are available only to guests. The homeowner shall reside on site.

Live-work units: A multistory building located on an individual fee simple parcel designed to accommodate a single small office or a single retail use on the ground floor with residential units above.

Multifamily residential: A building of multiple dwelling units that includes off-street parking, on-site open space and on-site recreation facilities. Stairways may be enclosed or located on the exterior of the building, provided that exterior may not serve more than two (2) floors above street or sidewalk level.

Public/institutional: Buildings for public or institutional use, including churches, libraries, etc., shall be featured at prominent sites, such as major intersections or facing a park.

Multi-use retail/residential: A multistory building designed to accommodate offices or businesses on the ground floor and residential above. Offices or retail space may extend to upper floors provided the top floor(s) remain residential.

Home professional office: A home occupation consisting of the office of a practitioner who is licensed by the State of Georgia.

Site Development Standards.

3.1

Master Plan Design District.

3.1.1

Use. Use shall be based on preliminary design work of the Phase I Master Plan shown in Appendix A [on file in the planning department office].

3.1.2

Streets.

(A)

Street network. Street Network shall be organized in a grid pattern consistent with the Phase I Master Plan and shall promote orderly development which implements the urban design concepts of the City of Port Wentworth Master Plan; promote human-scale development and mixed but compatible land uses; promote economic development of the city; promote high quality development; minimize safety hazards to vehicles and pedestrians; and enhance quality of life for Port Wentworth's citizens. Street layout should show consideration of natural features such as trees and wetlands; drainage requirements; traffic calming measures; addition or relocation of public spaces; and utility location. Street layout shall be subject to review and approval pursuant to Section 5 of the City of Port Wentworth Subdivision Ordinance.

(B)

Block lengths. Any block exceeding six hundred (600) feet in length shall include a public ROW for pedestrian access, located approximately mid-block. This access must include a trail or sidewalk of no less than five (5) feet in width.

(C)

Ownership. All streets shall be public as accepted by the City of Port Wentworth. No gates or other limited access devices shall be allowed on public streets.

3.1.3

Street Classifications.

(A)

Frontage Street. A multilane street paralleling Highway 21 to provide access to property without placing excessive curb cuts along a major highway. Designed to move traffic efficiently. No on-street parking.

(B)

Court. A street providing access to property off a frontage road. These streets will allow for auto-oriented building types. Designed to move traffic efficiently, but at slower speeds than a frontage street. On-street parking.

(C)

Town Boulevard. A large, multilane street with a central, planted median of grand canopy trees and formal landscaping intended to provide access and connectivity. Designed to move traffic efficiently. No on-street parking.

(D)

Neighborhood Boulevard. A large, multilane street with a central, planted median of grand canopy trees and formal landscaping intended to be a prominent neighborhood street with large, majestic homes set back from the street. A generous sidewalk encourages pedestrian activity, although this street does not necessarily facilitate street activity. Designed for low vehicular speed, no striped cartway. On-street parking.

(E)

Avenue. A prominent street terminating its axis at a civic building or monument. This street is the center of activity and has a vibrant street life. Buildings are built to the sidewalks with common walls. Wide sidewalks, street trees, and street furniture provide a friendly pedestrian atmosphere. On-street parking.

(F)

Major Street. This street allows common wall buildings built close to the sidewalk, including row houses and live-work units with higher lot coverage areas. Sidewalks are lined with shade trees to encourage pedestrian activity. On-street parking, no striped cartway.

(G)

Minor Street. This is primarily a single-family street. Cartways are narrow to slow traffic and cartways not striped. Cars may have to yield to one another if a car is parallel parked on the street. These streets should have minimal traffic flow and be safe enough for children to ride their bikes in the street. May allow on-street parking, but not formally striped spaces.

(H)

Drive. Provides a transition from the neighborhood to natural areas. Lies adjacent to wetlands and lakes and therefore has lower density land uses and lower lot coverage areas. No striped cartway.

(I)

Road. Roads provide connection between neighborhoods, primarily through wetland areas. Roads will generally have open drainage and no direct building type association. No on-street parking.

(J)

Lane. Lanes provide access to the rear of properties otherwise abutting on a street. Lanes include residential gravel or other improved surface lanes behind houses and paved service lanes behind commercial structures. No parking.

3.1.4

Street Specifications. All figures indicate minimum requirements. Right-of-Way (ROW) — Utilities may be placed within the ROW if space is sufficient. If space is inadequate, a utility corridor is required.

	ROW (Min.)	Pavement Width (Min.)	Sidewalk (Min.)	On-Street Parking	Bike Lane	Tree Yard (Min.)	Other
Frontage Street	60'	24'	5' 4", concrete	No	Required	NA
Court	60'	24'	5' 4", concrete	Permitted	Permitted	NA
Town Boulevard	80'	24' each side of median	5' 4", concrete	No	Required	6'	Median Required
Neighborhood Boulevard	60'	24' each side of median	5' 4", concrete	Permitted	Permitted	6'	Median Required
Avenue	60'	24'	5' 4", concrete	Permitted	Required	4'
Major Street	60'	24'	5' 4", concrete	Permitted	Permitted	6'
Minor Street	50'	24'	5' 4", concrete	Permitted	Permitted	4'
Drive	50'	24'	5' 4", concrete	Permitted	Permitted	6'
Road	60'	24'	5' 4", concrete	No	Required	6'
Lane	18'	10'	N	No	N	N

Additional Notes:

When provided, bike lanes shall be in addition to the minimum pavement width. Bike lanes are a separate feature from pedestrian sidewalks and multipurpose trails and shall be constructed as such in accordance with guidelines developed by the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO).

Pavement width shall be measured back of curb to back of curb, where curbs exist.

Medians may be included on any road which does not already have a median requirement.

Streets may be one-way around parks, civic sites, roundabouts, or small blocks.

3.1.5

Building Specifications.

3.1.5.1

Setback. Setbacks shall be appropriate to provide human-scale proportions along the streetscape. Single-family detached structures shall be built close enough to sidewalk to encourage interaction with pedestrians on the sidewalk. Front porches and stoops may encroach into the setback. Setback or build-to distances will be determined by street classification, as indicated in Section 3.1.11.

3.1.5.2

Orientation. All buildings shall be oriented to the street with the primary entrance facing the street and directly accessible from the sidewalk. Double frontage lots should be avoided.

3.1.5.3

Massing. In general, building width shall not exceed building depth for single story structures.

3.1.5.4

Lot coverage. Maximum lot coverage indicates the maximum allowable impervious coverage on a lot, including building footprint of the primary structure and accessory structures, concrete driveways and paths, parking lots, etc. The use of pervious surfaces for parking facilities and other pervious materials is encouraged. Lot coverage requirements are indicated in Section 3.1.11.

3.1.5.5

Accessory buildings. Accessory buildings, such as apartments above garages, shall be allowed pending that accessory buildings are placed behind the primary structure and in proper scale.

Private Residential Garages/Carports with lane access. The garage or carport shall be placed behind the primary structure on the lot, with the vehicular entrance oriented to the lane.

Private Residential Garages/Carports without lane access. If a lane is not present, the vehicular entrance may be oriented to the front of the lot, provided that the front of the garage or carport does not extend beyond the front facade of the house.

3.1.5.6

Materials.

Metal paneling must be approved and may cover no more than twenty (20) per cent of a building facing the street.

Wood, brick, stone, hard coat stucco, and fiber-cement siding, planks or shingles (such as Hardie Siding Products), and vinyl siding certified by the Vinyl Siding Institute with a thickness of four-hundredths (.040) inch or greater.

All other vinyl siding that is not certified by the Vinyl Siding Institute and having a thickness of less that four-hundredths (.040) inch is not approved.

3.1.5.7

Reserved.

3.1.6

Lot size. Lot size shall be determined by street classification. In general, lot sizes should promote pedestrian activity and accessibility. Refer to Section 3.1.11.

3.1.7

Improvements.

3.1.7.1

Sidewalks. All streets shall have sidewalks where adjacent property is developed. In all other locations, sidewalks are required on at least one (1) side of the street. Requirements may be reduced for roads adjacent to or crossing wetland areas or lakes.

3.1.7.2

Street trees. Street trees shall be selected to provide shade over the sidewalks. Street trees shall be planted in a tree yard of a minimum width as set forth in Section 3.1.4 along all sidewalks in predominately residential streets. Pedestrian paths shall be placed through the tree yard at a frequency to avoid foot traffic through landscaped areas. Continuous tree yards may be eliminated and three (3) feet by three (3) feet planted areas may be placed in lieu thereof.

3.1.7.3

Streetlights. Streetlights shall be installed in residential areas at a distance to provide safety to the neighborhood. Streetlights shall be installed in retail areas to provide illumination to encourage evening activity along the street.

3.1.7.4

Parks. The developer shall set aside land for park space for public use. Parks shall be maintained by the owner, unless dedicated and accepted by the City of Port Wentworth.

3.1.8

Signs. Signs should be constructed in a manner consistent with the character, scale, design and materials of the associated built structure. These regulations are in addition to the requirements of the Port Wentworth Code, Chapter 19.1.

3.1.9

Access.

3.1.9.1

Pedestrian.

All commercial uses shall have a public entrance facing the public street and be directly accessible from the street and sidewalk.

Parking lots shall provide a raised path (i.e. speed bump) of adequate width for pedestrian access from the parking lot to the building entrance. This path shall be clearly marked to indicate pedestrian right-of-way.

Any block exceeding six hundred (600) feet in length shall include a public ROW for pedestrian access, located approximately mid-block. This access must include a trail or sidewalk of no less than five (5) feet in width.

3.1.9.2

Vehicular.

Vehicular access shall be from a lane along the rear of the property, except where not feasible because of natural or other constraints. Frontage street access shall be from court streets. Drives entering property directly from a court may be no closer than one hundred fifty (150) feet.

Adjacent parking lots shall have internal vehicular access.

3.1.10

Parking.

(1)

Space requirements. Parking requirements may be reduced from current regulations as indicated in Section 4.10 of the existing Port Wentworth Zoning Ordinance. Shared parking is encouraged.

(2)

Arrangement. Parking lot arrangement shall facilitate safe traffic movement and prohibit motorists from driving haphazardly across the lot. Adjacent parking lots shall be connected with an internal drive which provides access between the lots without necessitating the motorist to travel onto the street.

(3)

Landscaping. Surface parking lots of over twenty (20) spaces shall include shade trees which provide a minimum canopy coverage of thirty (30) per cent. Canopy coverage for newly planted trees should be estimated at a point in the future (approximately ten (10) years) to accommodate growth and allow for adequate tree spacing. Tree areas within the interior of the parking lot shall be a minimum of one hundred (100) square feet.

(4)

On-street parking. On-street parking that is directly in front of a lot shall count toward fulfilling the parking requirement of that lot. One (1) parking space credit shall be given for every space in front of the lot that is over fifty (50) per cent of the length of the parking space.

3.1.11

Development attributes.

	Lot Size	Lot Coverage	Height	Front Yard Setback	Uses
Frontage	Not to exceed grid on Master Plan	Maximum 90%	Maximum 35'	0—15'	Neighborhood, community, and auto-oriented commercial; neighborhood multifamily residential; multifamily; office; hotel/motel; assisted living center; multi-use retail residential
Court	Not to exceed grid on Master Plan	Maximum 90%	Maximum 35'	0—15'	Neighborhood, community, and auto-oriented commercial; neighborhood multifamily residential; multifamily; office; hotel/motel; assisted living center; multi-use retail residential
Town Boulevard	Carries standards of intersecting streets.
Neighborhood Boulevard	Maximum 125' × 125'	Maximum 40%	Maximum 35'	10—35'	Single-family residential; neighborhood multifamily; neighborhood commercial; bed and breakfast inns; assisted living center; community commercial
Avenue	Not to exceed grid on Master Plan	Maximum 100%	Maximum 35'	0'	Neighborhood commercial; bed and breakfast inns; assisted living center; community commercial; multi-use retail residential
Major Street	Maximum width 75' Maximum depth 125'	Maximum 80%	Maximum 35'	0—15'	Single-family residential; neighborhood multifamily; home occupations; live-work units; neighborhood commercial; bed and breakfast inns; hotels; assisted living centers
Minor Street	Maximum width 75' Maximum depth 125'	Maximum 40%	Maximum 35'	0—35'	Single-family residential; home occupations; neighborhood multifamily residential; neighborhood commercial; live-work units
Drive	Maximum width 125' Maximum depth 150'	Maximum 30%	Maximum 35'	10—35'	Single-family residential; home occupations; neighborhood multifamily residential; live-work units
Road	Carries standards of intersecting streets.
Lane	Not applicable.

Natural Resources.

4.1

Wetlands.

4.1.1

Delineation.

4.1.1.1

Phase I Master Plan Design District. Wetlands in this district have been delineated and surveyed. The City of Port Wentworth will hold a "master permit" from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers which encompasses all wetlands in this district. Any activity which may potentially affect wetlands, including but not limited to land clearing, silviculture, building activities, etc., must be approved in writing by the City.

4.1.1.2

Phases II and III Master Plan Design Districts. Property must be surveyed for wetlands prior to any land disturbing activities. A permit must be obtained from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for the entire parcel before subdivision.

4.1.2

Buffers. A minimum of a twenty-five-foot vegetative strip shall remain in perpetuity along the banks or edges of all jurisdictional wetlands. No structures or impervious surface shall be allowed within the buffer except for multi-purpose trails using impervious material or elevated boardwalks.

4.1.3

Construction activities. All wetlands and wetland buffers must be clearly flagged in the field and marked with a continuous barrier such as flagging tape to visibly indicate the location of wetlands and wetland buffers. No impacts from construction or other areas may occur within this area.

4.1.4

Timber Activities.

4.1.4.1

Phase I Master Plan Design District. No trees or other vegetation may be removed from delineated wetlands without a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

4.1.4.2

Phases II and III Master Plan Design District. No trees or other vegetation may be removed from wetlands without a permit from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

4.2

Trees.

4.2.1

Exemptions. The requirements set forth in this Section 4.2 of the Overlay District shall apply to all real property, subject to the following exemptions:

Residential properties that are in existence prior to the adoption of this overlay district on November 9, 2000.

Commercial timber operations in existence prior to the adoption of this overlay district on November 9, 2000. A fifty-foot buffer of existing trees shall be required adjacent to all public rights-of-way.

Wetland mitigation, the mitigation of wetlands pursuant to an approved plan from the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, shall be exempt.

Commercial timber operation exemption: trees grown for sale by commercial nurseries are exempt.

4.2.2

Tree Survey. A tree survey is required for all non-exempt properties before any cutting may be performed. Properties which are proposed for development may not be cleared of trees or other vegetation more than thirty (30) days prior to the start of construction. All harvesting activities must comply with the city's soil erosion and sedimentation ordinance.

4.2.2.1

Identification. A tree survey overlay on the plat that locates all grand trees and specimen trees identified by DBH and species. Dead or diseased trees shall be identified. All tree surveys for subdivisions involving the construction of road or drainage easements shall be performed by a licensed, registered arborist and shall have an accuracy of plus or minus three (3) feet.

Limits of areas proposed to be clear-cut for proposed structures, improvements, rights-of-way and easements. Clear cutting beyond the limits as shown on the plat or site plan shall not be permitted.

A tree protection plan shall be prepared indicating how trees are to be protected during development in accordance with this overlay district, Section 4.2.2.

4.2.3

Tree Removal Restrictions.

4.2.3.1

Protection of grand trees and specimen trees. The removal, relocation, destruction or abuse in any manner of any grand tree or specimen tree is prohibited on any parcel of nonexempt land. For subdivisions, the division of property so that a lot would place a grand or specimen tree at or near the center of a lot in a location that would require the removal of said tree for construction shall be prohibited.

4.2.3.2

Protected trees prior to development. Where a building permit or subdivision approval has not been issued, the removal, relocation, destruction or abuse in any manner of more than twenty-five (25) per cent of the protected trees (eight (8) inches or greater DBH) on any one (1) parcel of nonexempt land within any five-year period shall be prohibited. The total number of protected trees existing on any one (1) parcel shall not be reduced below a total number equal to fifteen (15) protected trees per acre.

4.2.3.3

Protected trees during development. For parcels of land proposed for development, a minimum number of protected trees on the entire parcel equal to fifteen (15) protected trees per acre shall be saved. For parcels containing less than fifteen (15) protected trees per acre, the total number of protected trees required to be saved shall be equal to the total number or protected trees existing on the parcel. Grand trees and specimen trees to be saved may be used to calculate the total number of protected trees to be saved.

4.2.3.4

Utilities. These requirements shall not restrict the ability of the City of Port Wentworth, public utilities and electrical suppliers from maintaining safe clearance around utility lines.

4.2.3.5

Easements. The area of existing utility and drainage easements may be subtracted from the total site area for the purpose of calculating the number of protected trees required to be saved.

4.2.4

Tree protection requirements.

4.2.4.1

Protective barricades required. Protective barricades shall be placed around all protected trees, specimen trees and grand trees located in development areas, designed to protect the critical root zone (CRZ). Barricades shall be placed prior to the start of development activities, and shall remain in place until development activities are complete or construction in accordance with standards set forth in this Section commences. The area within the protective barricade shall remain free of all building materials, dirt or other construction debris, vehicles and development activities. Barricades shall be erected at a minimum distance from the base of protected trees and grand trees according to the following standards:

For Protected Trees Ten Inches or Less DBH. Protective barricades shall be placed a minimum distance of ten (10) feet from the base of each protected tree.

For Protected Trees Greater than Ten Inches DBH and Grand Trees. Protective barricades shall provide a diameter of protection around the tree equal in feet to the diameter breast height of the tree (i.e., a twenty-four-inch diameter tree would require a twenty-four-foot diameter protective barricade).

4.2.4.2

Construction within the protective barricade. Changes in grade or construction of impervious surface or utilities within the required protective barricade shall be permitted subject to the following guidelines:

The City, prior to beginning construction, must approve the changes in grade or construction within protected zones. Plans must be submitted which illustrate in detail protective measures necessary to protect the trees.

A minimum setback, to be determined using the following guidelines, shall be maintained between impervious surfaces and the bases of all protected and grand trees, except where the City finds that a proposed encroachment of an impervious surface will not adversely affect a tree, or that special construction methods and tree care will reduce the potential adversity affecting a tree.

Trees of eight (8) inches to fifteen (15) inches DBH: a minimum clearance of six (6) feet is required.

Trees of sixteen (16) inches to twenty-three (23) inches DBH: a minimum clearance of nine (9) feet is required.

Grand Trees: a minimum clearance of twelve (12) feet is required, plus an additional one (1) foot of clearance for every three (3) DBH inches in excess of twenty-four (24) (i.e., a tree having a DBH of thirty-six (36) inches must have a minimum clearance of sixteen (16) feet between its base and any impervious surface).

4.2.4.3

Roots within the protective barricade. All roots outside the protective barricade to be removed during development shall be severed clean and a two-inch layer of mulch shall be applied over the surface of exposed roots during development. Alternative methods to severing roots should be actively pursued.

4.2.4.4

Pruning. All pruning of protected trees and grand trees shall be done by a qualified tree service during development according to the National Arborists Association, Pruning Standards for Shade Trees.

Exceptions to the Master Plan Overlay District. Property currently zoned R-A will be allowed to continue or initiate a new residential use only on a lot of record as of March 1, 2001, provided that the property meets all zoning conditions and health department approval for septic tank installation, if public sewer is not readily available. Readily available is defined to be public sewer service within one thousand (1,000) feet of the property boundary, not the building footprint.

(Ord. No. 00-16, 11-9-00; Ord. No. 01-05, 3-22-01; Ord. No. 03-22, 10-30-03; Ord. No. 10-19, 9-24-10)

                    
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