HomeMy WebLinkAboutAgenda - Planning Commission - 02/23/2022South Burlington Planning Commission
180 Market Street
South Burlington, VT 05403
(802) 846-4106
www.sburl.com
Meeting Wednesday, February 23, 2022
City Hall, 180 Market Street, Auditorium
7:00 pm
Members of the public may attend in person or digitally via GoToMeeting. Participation Options:
• In Person: City Hall Auditorium, 180 Market Street
• Interactive Online: https://zoom.us/j/93948537997
• Telephone: (929) 205 6099; Meeting ID: 939 4853 7997
AGENDA:
1. *Agenda: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items (7:00 pm)
2. Open to the public for items not related to the agenda (7:02 pm)
3. Announcements and staff report (7:05 pm)
4. Commissioners’ Reports from Committees (7:10 pm)
5. *Review of Draft Amendments to the Land Development Regulations related to a General PUD, Civic
Space/Site Amenity requirements, and design standards in Site Plan
6. *Consider possible action to Public Hearing on proposed amendments to the Land Development
Regulations and Approve accompanying Planning Commission Report.
7. *Meeting Minutes (8:50 pm): February 8, 2022
8. Other Business (8:55 pm)
9. Adjourn (9:00 pm)
Respectfully submitted,
Paul Conner, AICP Kelsey Peterson
Director of Planning & Zoning City Planner
* item has attachments
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180 Market Street South Burlington, VT 05403 tel 802.846.4106 fax 802.846.4101 www.sb vt.gov
MEMORANDUM
TO: South Burlington Planning Commission
FROM: Paul Conner, Director of Planning & Zoning; Kelsey Peterson, City Planner
SUBJECT: Planning Commission Meeting Memo
DATE: February 23, 2022 Planning Commission meeting
1. Agenda: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items (7:00 pm)
2. Open to the public for items not related to the agenda (7:02 pm)
3. Announcements and staff report (7:05 pm)
• OnLogic facility approved. The DRB issued a final Site Plan approval for a second OnLogic facility in South
Burlington, to be located on Community Drive west of the FedEx Facility.
• Bids have been received for construction of a crosswalk at Kennedy Drive / Twin Oaks Drive
• A scoping study is underway for improving the bicycle/pedestrian connections along and in the vicinity
of Queen City Park Road, from Shelburne Road to Oakledge Park. This is a joint South
Burlington/Burlington project. The project team will be presenting alternatives at a public meeting
hosted by the SB Bike/Ped Committee on March 9th, 5:30 pm.
• The Champlain Valley Conservation Partnership (of which SB is a founding member) has established a
focus area for conservation work within the region. The goal of this project was to prioritize projects
and share priority areas with other partners. You can see the map and read our new outreach piece on
the website here.
4. Commissioners’ Reports from Committees (7:10 pm)
5. *Review of Draft Amendments to the Land Development Regulations related to a General PUD, Civic
Space/Site Amenity requirements, and design standards in Site Plan (7:20 pm)
Staff has updated the General PUD draft based on the feedback from Planning Commissioners at the
previous Planning Commission meeting and after review of other related sections of the LDRs.
There are four primary, substantive amendments:
• Adding the General PUD section (15.C.07) and related edits to Planned Unit Development (15.C.02
and 15.C.04),
• Adding Civic Space requirements to Site Plan (14.06(D)) and to Subdivision (15.A.16(B)) plus edits to
Civic Spaces/Site Amenities Table (Article 11.B),
• Adding additional clarification in design standards in Site Plan (14.06(A)(1) and 14.06(C)(3)),
• Removing one type of development from Master Plan applicability (15.B.02(4)). There are also a few
consistency edits in other sections to rectify conflicts with these changes.
2
General PUD
As discussed at recent PC meetings, the General PUD would be a completely new section added to the LDRs,
included similarly as the CON PUD and TND PUD under Section 15.C. The purpose of the General PUD is to
allow for greater flexibility in infill and redevelopment sites, provide a path for amendment to previously-
approved PUDs, and provide flexibility to developments when the development meets additional City goals
of context compatibility, flexibility in meeting density requirements, and/or energy efficiency or climate
change mitigation.
Since the previous draft, it has been structured for better logical flow and ease of use for both the City and
for applicants. The DRB Limitations have been cleaned up to read more clearly and the across-the-board
prohibition on varying the height standards has been removed.
Applicability (Subsection C) has been restructured to refer to Table 15.C-1 (in the PUD standards – 15.C). The
zones where the General PUD is allowed are listed expressly, instead of being referred to as where other
PUDs are not. Subsection (C)(2) [Allowance for the General PUD in the R7-NC District along Arterial Roads]
remains effectively as written – Staff would request the Planning Commission consider how or if this section
should be included in this draft. We have reached out to the likely most-affected landowner and have not
received feedback. Finally, the minor amendments to existing PUD have been clarified to state that the
General PUD is not the mechanism for amendments for any approved CON or TND PUDs.
Compatibility and Context has been edited to make clear that current zoning is secondary to planned
character and development patterns in an area and should be considered as the standalone basis for
“context” only if the current and future use is clearly consistent with current zoning.
The remaining sections include minor edits and clarifications. There is an additional reference to the
Subdivision and Site Plan standards for Civic Spaces and Site Amenities (more fully explained below). There
is also a new subsection (I)(6) that requires a mix of dwelling unit types if a General PUD includes more than
four residential dwelling units. Staff requests the Planning Commission discuss this provision as well.
Civic Spaces
Civic Space and Site Amenity requirements have been removed from the General PUD section and added to
the Subdivision and Site Plan sections. In Subdivision, we have added 15.A.16(B)(d), which allows for the
DRB to credit an application up to 50% of their requirement for demonstration of nearby publicly-accessible
open space, but only for subdivisions under 6 acres in size. This is intended to allow for flexibility on small
sites, including small General PUDs, while still requiring on-site Civic Space for larger subdivisions. Small sites
are both more space-constrained (potentially making meeting the full requirement difficult) and at closer
distances to surrounding areas which makes it more practical and reasonable to count surrounding
community spaces as assets to the development.
A Site Amenity requirement has been added to Site Plan (14.06(D)) which requires Site Amenities for new
development of non-residential space (including the added area of an addition or expansion) over 5,000 SF
and for all residential development (including conversion from non-residential to residential space). It also
makes clear that this does not apply in the Form-Based Code area, as 8.08 governs there.
Article 11.B has been expanded to include two new Site Amenities: Indoor/Outdoor Space and Private Porch
or Balcony. Details are provided in the table. The intention is to allow more spaces to be counted as Site
3
Amenities, especially on sites that are otherwise limited on ground-floor, outdoor space. Staff requests the
Planning Commission discuss the inclusion of these additional options.
Design Standards
Design standards have been moved from General PUD to Site Plan to provide further guidance to the DRB
and to have these standards be generally applicable. They are now in 14.06(A)(1) and (C)(3). DRB staff
provided the feedback that the DRB already uses similar kinds of standards in their analyses under those
sections, but having express standards will add clarity.
Master Plan Applicability
Staff has removed “(4) Multiple Structures on a Single-User Lot or Complex, in accordance with Section
3.09.” from being automatically required to have a Master Plan under 15.B.02(A). As noted at the last
meeting, this requirement is overly burdensome, especially for small parcels with pre-existing multiple
structures. The other sections cover many larger complexes and developments and parcels to which only (4)
would have applied tend to be much smaller, less complex, and with less change occurring (because Major
Subdivision, phased development, and PUDs require a Master Plan under sections (1), (2) and (3),
respectively).
Consistency Edits
Two additional sections required edits to accommodate or be consistent with the substantive changes:
Waiver of Maximum Height Requirements (3.07(D)) and Open Space Requirements (8.08(D)(1).
6. *Consider possible action to Public Hearing on proposed amendments to the Land Development
Regulations and Approve accompanying Planning Commission Report.
Enclosed please find a draft Planning Commission Report to accompany the draft amendments. If the
Commission is prepared to advance the draft amendments (with or without modifcaitons) to a public
hearing, it may do so. A possible motion would be:
“I move to approve the Planning Commission Report and to warn a public hearing on the draft
amendments to the Land Development Regulations included in this meeting’s packet [as modified] for
March 22, 2022”.
7. *Meeting Minutes (8:50 pm): February 8, 2022
8. Other Business (8:55 pm)
9. Adjourn (9:00 pm)
ARTICLE 3 GENERAL PROVISIONS 3-1
South Burlington Land Development Regulations
3 GENERAL PROVISIONS
. . .
3.07 Height of Structures
. . .
3.07 Height of Structures
. . .
D. Waiver of Maximum Height Requirements
(1) Larger Rooftop Apparatus. Larger Rooftop apparatus, as defined under Heights in these
Regulations, and steeples for places of worship that are taller than normal height limitations established
in Table C-2 above may be approved by the Development Review Board as a conditional use subject to
the provisions of Article 14, Conditional Uses.
(2) R12, IA, PR, MU, C1-Air, C1-LR, AR, SW, IO, C2, Mixed IC, AIR, and AIR-IND Districts.
(a) Except within a Planned Unit Development, an applicant may seek approval from the
Development Review Board for the height of one or more structures to exceed the limitation set forth
in Table C-2 for structures within these zoning districts. Within a Planned Unit Development, the
ability of an applicant to seek approval for a structure to exceed the limitation in Table C-2 is heights
are established by PUD type.
(b) Submittal requirements. Any request for additional height shall be made in writing at the time
of application for a Site Plan. The request must include the submittal of a plan(s) showing the
elevations and architectural design of the structure, pre-construction grade, post-construction grade,
and height of the structure, and any supplemental information the Development Review Board deems
necessary in order to render a decision.
(c) Standards of Review.
(i) Demonstration of Compliance with the Provisions of Section 14.06 and 14.07; and,
(ii) Demonstration that the proposed structure will not have an undue adverse effect on
scenic views from adjacent public roadways and other public rights-of-way.
DRAFT Page 1 of 18
ARTICLE 8 CITY CENTER FORM BASED CODE DISTRICT 8-1
South Burlington Land Development Regulations
8 CITY CENTER FORM BASED CODE DISTRICT
. . .
8.08 Open Space Requirements
. . .
8.08 Open Space Requirements
D. General Civic Space / Site Amenity Notes
(1) In all Transect Zones, only Civic Space / Site Amenity areas meeting the requirements of
Appendix F Article 11.B and this article shall count towards the minimum qualifying requirements.
(2) In all Transect Zones landscaped parking lot dividers and median strips shall not be considered
qualifying Civic Space / Site Amenities. A divider between a parking lot and a qualifying street type
shall be considered qualifying where applicable and allowable.
DRAFT Page 2 of 18
ARTICLE 11.B Civic Space / Site Amenity Requirements
Type Civic Space Civic Space Civic Space Civic Space Civic Space; Site Amenity Civic Space; Site Amenity Civic Space; Site Amenity Civic Space; Site Amenity Civic Space; Site Amenity
Neighborhood Park Greenway Green Square Plaza Pocket Park Pocket Plaza Playground Community Garden
FBC applicability
(where may be
located)
T3, T3+, T4 T3, T3+, T4 T3, T3+, T4 T4, T5 T4, T5 All T4, T5 All All
Site Plan applicability
outside FBC
All Site Plans All Site Plans All Site Plans
Subdivision / PUD
Applicability
All Subdivision / PUD
Types
All Subdivision / PUD
Types
CON, TND, NCD All
Subdivision/PUD Types
TND (8+DU/A), NCD, IRD,
General, All Non-PUD
Subdivision
NCD, IRD--Mixed Use,
General, All Non-PUD
Subdivisions
All Subdivision / PUD
Types
NCD, IRD--Mixed Use,
General, All Non-PUD
Subdivisions
All Subdivision / PUD
Types
All Subdivision / PUD
Types
Description Informal, primarily natural
green space managed for
passive unstructured
recreation, limited
structured recreation, and
community gatherings,
events
Linear, informal, primarily
natural green space that
typically borders and may
incorporate a natural
feature such as a riparian
or habitat corridor, or a
connecting recreation or
pedestrian path
Informal but well-defined
natural and landscaped
green space, designed and
managed for passive,
unstructured recreation,
limited structured
recreation, social
interaction, and
neighborhood gatherings,
events
Formal, well-defined and
landscaped, outdoor living
space designed and
managed for passive,
unstructured recreation,
limited structured
recreation, social
interaction, and
neighborhood gatherings,
events
Formal, well-defined,
landscaped and
hardscaped outdoor living
space, designed and
managed for foot traffic,
social interaction, civic and
commercial activities and
events, and use by
adjoining businesses
A small, landscaped green
space, designed and
managed as an outdoor
living "room" for more
limited passive recreation
and social interaction.
A small, formally
landscaped and
hardscaped outdoor area
or "room," designed and
managed for foot traffic,
social interaction, and
limited civic and
commercial activities
Open space designed and
equipped for children; may
be included in other
open/civic space types
Open space consisting of a
grouping of garden plots
for use by neighborhood
residents; may be included
in other open/civic space
types
Service Area Intended to serve multiple
neighborhoods located
within walking or biking
distance (1/2 mile) of the
park. Typically located
between adjoining
neighborhoods. May also
serve as a buffer area
between incompatible
development
Intended to serve and
connect multiple
neighborhoods, open
space areas, public
facilities, and mixed use
centers, as part of the
City's planned open space
and recreation path
network. Typically located
within edge/buffer areas;
may serve as a buffer area
between incompatible
development
Intended as the focal point
of a residential or mixed
use neighborhood that
serves to enhance
neighborhood identity and
character, and
accommodates
neighborhood gatherings
and events. Typically
centrally located to the
area (streets, blocks) it
serves
Intended to serve as a
focal point, and outdoor
living space, in a more
urban, higher density
residential or mixed use
neighborhood. Typically
centrally located to the
area (streets and blocks) it
serves; may also front civic
buildings
Intended to serve adjacent
sites on a street or block
face within a more densely
developed commercial or
mixed use area. Typically
located at a street
intersection, but may also
be located midblock.
Intended to serve the
immediate area (street,
block) within walking
distance (1/4 mile),
including adjoining
residences and
businesses. Typically
located mid-block, or on a
street corner. Especially
suited for infill development
in neighborhoods that lack
open space.
More urban version of a
pocket park; intended to
serve the immediate area
(street, block) within
walking distance (1/4 mile),
including adjoining
residences and
businesses. Typically
located mid-block, or on a
street corner.
May be a type of civic
space, feature within a
civic space, or a building
amenity.
May be a type of civic
space, feature within a
civic space, or a building
amenity.
Typical Features Paths, trails, trees,
ballfields, playground, dog
park, play area, community
garden, small accessory
structures, seating; may
include a small farm in
appropriate context; may
include limited onsite
parking.
Recreation path, trail,
trees, small accessory
structures, water fountains,
seating areas, overlooks;
vehicle parking limited to
access points/trail heads
Paths, trails, seating areas,
trees, gardens, public art,
small accessory structures;
no onsite parking
Formally arranged paths,
trees, gardens, seating
areas, public art, fountains,
small accessory structures,
no onsite parking
Seating areas, vendor
areas, public art,
fountains, ornamental
trees, planters, small
accessory
structures/buildings; no
onsite parking
Path, seating area, trees,
gardens, community
garden playground, public
art, small accessory
structure; no onsite parking
Seating area, vendor area,
public art, fountain,
ornamental trees, planters,
small accessory structures;
no onsite parking
Playground equipment,
fountains, small accessory
structure (e.g., shelter),
seating area
Garden plots, accessory
facilities/structures (e.g.,
water source, equipment
shed); limited/no parking
Lot Size Minimum: 3 acres
Maximum: None
Minimum Width: 50 FT
No minimum length or
overall size; but must be
designed to serve the
entire development, and to
connect to the existing or
planned path or open
space network in the
vicinity of the project
Minimum: 20,000 SF
Maximum: 120,000 SF
Minimum: 20,000 SF
Maximum: 80,000 SF
Minimum: 20,000 SF
Maximum: 60,000 SF
Minimum: 2,000 SF
Maximum: 20,000 SF
Minimum: 2,000 SF
Maximum: 20,000 SF
Minimum: 2,000 SF as a
Civic Space; 1,500 SF as a
Site Amenity
Minimum: 5,000 SF as a
Civic Space
Lot Coverage 0% Min, 30% max 0% Min, 30% max 0% Min, 20% max 0% Min, 30% max 60% min, 100% max 0% min, 50% max 60% min, 100% max
Frontage Independent of building
frontage; typically fronts on
at least one public street;
and may be accessed via
one or more streets,
recreation, or pedestrian
paths.
Independent of building
frontage or bordering
streets, but a street may
serve as a boundary.
Typically accessed via
intersecting streets,
recreation, or pedestrian
paths. In developed areas,
maybe spatially defined by
landscaping or attractive
fencing.
Typically has frontage on
two or more streets with
adjacent buildings and
main building entrances
facing the Green. Civic
building lots, where
present, also border and
front on the Green.
Typically has frontage on
one or more streets, with
adjacent buildings and
main building entrances
facing the Square. Civic
building lots, where
present, typically also
border and front on the
Square.
Typically has frontage on
one or two streets, with
adjacent buildings that
front on or have public
entrances facing the
Plaza. Prominent civic
buildings, where present,
may also front on the
Plaza.
Typically has frontage on
one or two streets; and
may be spatially separated
from adjoining properties
by attractive fencing and
landscaping that define
the space.
Typically has frontage on
one or two streets, and is
defined and enclosed by
adjacent building facades,
with compatible
architectural elements,
such as low walls,
screening, or fencing and
landscaping that define the
space.
If a civic space, must be
accessible from public
street
If a civic space, must be
accessible from public
street
Other:May also serve as a
feature within a different
applicable Civic Space
(1) See "Shared Garden
Space" for the Site Amenity
version of this use. (2) may
also serve as a feature with
Notes:
Neighborhood Civic Spaces may include or incorporate stormwater management practices. Any such practice must be designed to service the description and service intent of the applicable service space type and complement the features. The Board may exclude stormwater
practices from the calculation of minimum civic space requirements where it finds the practices to be excessive to the primary purpose of the civic space type
South Burlington Land Development RegulationsDRAFT Page 3 of 18
ARTICLE 11.B Civic Space / Site Amenity Requirements
Type Site Amenity Site Amenity Site Amenity Site Amenity Site Amenity Site Amenity Site Amenity Site Amenity Site Amenity Site Amenity Site Amenity Site Amenity Site Amenity Site Amenity
Outdoor Café/
Restaurant Seating
Sun Terrace Indoor Park/Atrium Courtyard Shared Garden Space Rain Garden Snippet/ Parklet Pedestrian Pass Streetfront Open Space Indoor/Outdoor Space Private Porch or
Balcony
Private Yard Space Enhanced or
Recreational
Wetlands/Stormwater
Treatment Area
Wooded Area
Applicability
FBC
applicability
(where may be
located)
All FBC Districts (must
be associated with a
restaurant)
Buildings having 3 or
more stories in T4 and
T5
T4, T5 All FBC Districts All FBC districts. All FBC districts All FBC districts;
Parcels with land within
the Urban Design
Overlay District
T4, T5 All FBC districts T4, T5 T-3 and T3+ T-3 and T3+ Onsite in FBC T3 and
T3+ unless counting as
off-site open space for
T4 and T5 and meeting
all of the requirements
and limitations of 8.08E.
Onsite in FBC T3 and
T3+ unless counting as
off-site open space for
T4 and T5 and meeting
all of the requirements
and limitations of 8.08E.
Site Plan
applicability
outside FBC
All Site Plans All Site Plans All Site Plans All Site Plans All Site Plans All Site Plans All Site Plans All Site Plans
Description &
Service Intent
An open-air seating area
provided by a restaurant
located on the subject or
adjoining property,
where restaurant
patrons can eat or drink
Accessible and open
area on upper story with
seating and gathering
amenities.
Interior open space
where at least one wall
facing the street
consists entirely of
glass.
Common Open Space
area on a portion of a
lot.
Land set aside and
maintained for
production of food to be
used primarily for
participating gardeners.
A shallow depression
planted with native
plants that captures
rainwater runoff from
impervious urban areas.
Small sitting area clearly
intended to provide
welcoming respite
between or adjacent to
buildings. May serve
general public,
employees, residents, or
customers.
Narrow pedestrian right
of ways that cut through
blocks in residential
and/or commercial
areas.
Liner open space area to
secondary streets, as permitted
per the Regulations.
Indoor common area
with direct access to a
ground or upper-level
outdoor space. For
residential uses.
Private porch balcony for
use by residents of an
individual dwelling unit
Private yard space
associated with a
residential unit.
An existing wetland
buffer or new
stormwater treatment
area which offers public
amenities that exceed
those minimally
necessary for water
resource management.
Naturally occurring area
with predominance of
canopy trees with
enhancement and public
access.
Size Minimum 100 sq. ft. 500-3,000 sq.ft; total
area shall not count as
more than 50% of the
minimum required
qualifying open space.
Minimum area 1,500
sq.ft. Minimum ceiling
height 20'. Area to be
counted as qualifying
open space shall not
exceed twice the area of
the glass wall.
5,000-20,000 sq. ft. Minimum 400 square
feet. Encouraged to
serve at least 20% of
units in multifamily
developments.
Maximum size of 3,500
sf; shall not count as
more than 50% of
minimum required
qualifying open space.
600-4,000 sq. ft. 8' minimum width; 24'
maximum width.
50' minimum depth from closest
public street line; or if private,
50' minimum depth from edge of
pavement or sidewalk as
applicable.
Minimum 300 sq. ft.
indoors and 600 sq. ft.
total
Minimum 6' depth and 8'
width. If Balconies /
Porches are not
accessible to every
residential unit, the total
area may not count as
more than 50% of the
minimum required
qualifying open space
As directed by minimum
requirements.
Shall include the land of
the improvement (such
as enhanced path,
viewing platform, etc)
and 50 feet to either
side; total area shall not
count as more than 50%
of minimum required
qualifying open space.
2,500 sq. ft. minimum;
Shall include the land of
the improvement (such
as enhanced path,
viewing platform, etc)
and no more than 50
feet to either side; total
area shall not count as
more than 50% of the
minimum required
qualifying open space.
Location &
Access
Highly visible, directly
adjacent to public right
of way. See additional
public realm standards
below.
Second floor or above.
Encourage location in
places which have
spectacular views.
Accessible directly from
the sidewalk or public
corridors. For T5 Non-
Residential, must
provide adequate
signage about location
and accessibility in
hallways and elevators.
Building interior adjacent
to sidewalk or public
open space. Direct
access from street level.
Provide several
entrances to make the
space available and
inviting to the general
public.
Physically defined by
surrounding buildings on
three or four sides.
May not be located in
any class wetland or
wetland buffer. Shall
have proper drainage.
The garden should be
positioned near a runoff
source like a downspout,
driveway or sump pump
to capture rainwater
runoff and stop the water
from reaching the sewer
system.
Must be directly adjacent
to public right of way and
sidewalk or operable
building entry.
Applicants are
encouraged to consider
lighting and safety in
design.
No vehicular traffic. Must
connect two public
streets. Storefronts and
restaurants are highly
encouraged to access
the pedestrian pass.
Must be immediately adjacent to
qualifying secondary street. See
Chapter 8 for additional
regulations. Must be on each
side of roadway, unless a
complying building is located on
the opposite side.
Available for use by
residents of a building
Directly adjacent to and
accessible to at least
one entry of the
associated dwelling unit.
Must be visible to public
or tenants and users of
building. Direct
pedestrian access from
adjacent public street
type.
Must be accessible, at
minimum, by residents,
tenants, or customers of
site. Must be onsite.
Offsite wooded areas
shall not be considered
qualifying open space
even where the LDR
permit open space to be
located off-site.
Seating*,
Tables, Etc.
Seating material shall be
of moderate to high
quality in order for café
space to be considered
qualifying open space.
One seating space for
every 50 sq.ft. of terrace
area.
Provide one seat for
every 100 sq.ft. of floor
area, one table for every
400 sq.ft. of floor area.
At least one half of
seating to consist of
movable chairs.
One seating space for
each 500 sq.ft. of
courtyard area, with a
minimum of 10 seating
spaces.
None required. The space must serve
as a visual amenity
which can be enjoyed
through paths or seating.
Adjacent seating,
proportionate with the
size of the garden and
number of users,
intended to enhance the
garden is required and
can be counted as part
of the required open
space.
Seating must be the
main focus of the space.
Seating must be present
year-round and
composed of high quality
materials. Fixed seating
is required unless the
applicant demonstrates
that moveable seating
will meet the stated
goals of the type.
One seating space for
each 150 sq.ft.
Seating is encouraged, but there
shall be no minimum
requirement.
Must be appropriately
furnished to meet
service intent
No requirements. No requirements. If functional for sitting
and viewing, seating can
be ledges, benches,
and/or stairs.
Light enhancement
expected. Must include
improvements, including
cleared paths and
benches.
Landscaping,
Design-
For optional separated
seating areas, use
planting boxes of
interesting patterns of
plants, open fences of
less than 3 feet in
height, or decorative and
moveable bollards with
decorative chain
connectors.
Terrace may take one of
the following forms:
complex architectural
setting which may
include art works; flower
garden; space with trees
and other planting.
Planted roofs are
permitted provided area
is also a functional
seating space.
Provide attractive paving
material to create
interesting patterns. Use
rich plant material.
Incorporate sculpture
and/or water feature.
If paved, area shall be
amended throughout
with substantial planted
areas or large planters
of trees and lush
greenery. If grassed,
area should be
articulated at perimeter
with lush greenery.
Must have adequate
planting soils, tested for
pH balance, drainage,
nutrients, etc. (proof
provided prior to
Certificate of
Occupancy). Where they
are inadequate, soils
shall be amended for
more suitable farming.
Shall have water service
directly to gardens.
Raised planters or other
semi-permanent
infrastructure
encouraged.
Deep rooted native
plants and grasses.
Landscaping shall also
be a primary component
of the space. Because
the space is inherently
small, it shall be
carefully landscaped in a
higher proportion than
larger spaces.
Landscaping should not
interfere with seating,
but instead complement
it. Spaces should appear
warm and inviting and
permanent rather than
temporary.
If paved, area shall
provide trees or large
potted plants at no more
than 50 foot intervals. If
grassed, area shall be
accented with
intermittent trees or
public art.
Slight, gentle, and undulating
berms from 1-3 feet in height are
encouraged to block views of
parking areas. Ever-green
landscaping is required. Include
canopy trees whose branches
are above the average visual line
of sight, located throughout the
space, with no more than 40 feet
between any two such trees or
between a tree and the street or
parking area. Landscaping
should aim to distract from
parking beyond, but should not
create dense walls of shrubbery
or trees. Artwork is also highly
encouraged.
Landscaping and
seating must be
appropriate designed to
meet service intent
No requirements. No requirements.
Landscaping, lawns or
planned seating/dining
areas (patios and decks)
are encouraged.
LID techniques; no
fencing permitted.
Majority of area must be
covered with canopy
trees. Light
enhancement expected.
Must include cleared
paths, benches, and/or
other amenities.
Commercial
Services,
Food
May serve as seating
area for adjacent
restaurant/food service,
or be space provided for
Dependent on Transect,
may possibly be used up
to 100% for commercial
food services. See Table
30% of area may be
used for restaurant
seating taking up no
more than 30% of the
Not permitted Not permitted. Not permitted. Permitted 40% of area may be
used for restaurant
seating.
Not permitted.Not permitted.Not permitted.Not permitted. Not permitted. Not permitted.
Sunlight and
Wind
Sunlight encouraged to
most of the occupied
area at lunchtime.
No requirements No requirements except
as noted for street
façade to be wall of
Sunlight to sitting areas
for most of day.
Full sunlight. Appropriate to the plant
species selection.
No requirements No requirements. No requirements. No requirements. Exterior to building. Appropriate to the plant
species selection.
No requirements
Other Plan shall be
established and
submitted to ensure
continual use and
maintenance of the
gardens, whether by
residents, association,
property owner or
property manager.
See LID language for
additional standards.
Bicycle parking may be
permitted within these
areas; however, the
space dedicated to
bicycle parking shall not
count towards meeting
the open space
requirements.
Separate travelled way from
parking areas; shall create
pedestrian environment.
Must be located on
applicant-owned
property.
Notes:
Seating
dimensions:
*Required dimensions
for one seating space or
one seat are as follows:
Height: 12" to 36";
ideally 17"; must allow
user to bend knees and
have feet below knees
Depth: 14" one-sided; 30-
36" double-sided
Materials All products installed in qualifying open spaces shall be of high quality
materials intended to be used for commercial application.
South Burlington Land Development RegulationsDRAFT Page 4 of 18
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South Burlington Land Development Regulations
14 SITE PLAN and CONDITIONAL USE REVIEW
. . .
14.06 General Review Standards
. . .
14.06 General Review Standards
Except within the City Center Form Based Code District, the following general criteria and standards shall be
used by the Development Review Board in reviewing applications for site plan approval. They are intended to
provide a framework within which the designer of the site development is free to exercise creativity,
invention, and innovation while improving the visual appearance of the City of South Burlington. The
Development Review Board shall not specify or favor any particular architectural style or design or assist in
the design of any of the buildings submitted for approval. The Development Review Board shall restrict itself
to a reasonable, professional review, and, except as otherwise provided in the following subsections, the
applicant shall retain full responsibility for design.
A. Relationship of Proposed Structures to the Site.
(1) The site shall be planned to accomplish a desirable transition from structure to site, from structure
to structure, and to provide for adequate planting, safe pedestrian movement, and adequate parking
areas. The DRB shall consider the following:
(a) Street Frontage. Maintain internally-consistent building setbacks and landscaping along
the street.
(b) Building Placement, Orientation. Maintain or establish a consistent building orientation to
the street and, where a prevalent pattern exists, the relationship of the building foundation to
topography and grade.
(c) Transition Contrast in Scale. Minimize and mitigate abrupt contrast in scale between
existing, planned or approved, and proposed development.
(d) Pedestrian Orientation. Improve and enhance pedestrian connections and walkability
within the area proposed for development.
(2) Parking:
(a) Parking shall be located to the rear or sides of buildings. Any side of a building facing a public
street shall be considered a front side of a building for the purposes of this subsection.
(b) The Development Review Board may approve parking between a public street and one or
more buildings if the Board finds that one or more of the following criteria are met. The Board shall
approve only the minimum necessary to overcome the conditions below.
(i) The parking area is necessary to meet minimum requirements of the Americans with
Disabilities Act;
(ii) The parking area will serve a single or two-family home;
(iii) The lot has unique site conditions, such as a utility easement or unstable soils, that allow
for parking, but not a building, to be located adjacent to the public street;
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South Burlington Land Development Regulations
(iv) The lot contains one or more existing buildings that are to be re-used and parking needs
cannot be accommodated to the rear and sides of the existing building(s);
(v) The principal use of the lot is for public recreation; or
(vi) The lot is located within the Mixed Industrial-Commercial Zoning District and meets the
following criteria:
(I) The lot is located in an approved subdivision where the parking on each lot in the
subdivision is proposed to be located between the building or buildings on each lot and the
public street so that a significant greenspace surrounded by buildings may be incorporated
similar to a college campus style “quad”, as detailed below.
(II) The parking on any lots that include a part of the greenspace shall be aligned in a
similar fashion so that the buildings are located between the greenspace and the parking and
so that the parking is located between the buildings and the public street to maintain the
integrity and continuity of the greenspace .
(III) The minimum required total area of the greenspace shall be 150,000 square feet. For
purposes of this subsection 14.07(B) (2)(b)(vi), “greenspace” shall be defined as a
consolidated and continuous landscaped area located across more than two lots in the
approved subdivision, similar in nature to a common open space, largely surrounded by
buildings, but shall not include building or impervious parking areas. The greenspace may
extend between buildings, but shall not extend beyond the building line of the principal
building on each lot that includes a portion of the greenspace. The greenspace shall consist
of pervious surfaces such as lawns, trees, plantings, wetlands, and gardens, and may include
impervious landscape features, such as path networks, sculptures, gazebos, water features,
footbridges, sitting areas, stone walls, and other features and amenities that may be built
within and throughout the greenspace in order to create a more attractive and enjoyable
environment. The area of the greenspace shall be calculated by measuring and adding the
portion of the total greenspace defined on the site plan for each lot in the approved
subdivision that includes a portion of the greenspace.
(vii) The lot is located within the Mixed Industrial-Commercial or Industrial & Open Space
Zoning Districts, and it is clear that the circulation and layout of the lot cannot reasonably be
designed in a manner to avoid conflicts between visitors / employees and the inherent operations
of the use(s) on the lot;
(I) In order to further reduce the likelihood of such conflicts, this exception to the
general requirements for parking is only available when the uses of the lot(s) are limited to:
1. Distribution and related storage
2. Light manufacturing
3. Manufacturing
4. Processing and Storage
5. Warehousing and Distribution
(II) The parking shall be limited as follows:
1. No more than 25% of the total parking on the lot shall be located between a public
street and the building(s);
2. Parking shall be predominantly screened from the roadway with landscaping
features, and separated from the roadway’s sidewalks or multi-use paths by one or more
of the following Qualifying Open Spaces (as defined in Article 11.B, except for the location
standards which are superseded by this subsection): Pocket/Mini Park; Wooded area;
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South Burlington Land Development Regulations
Community Garden; Enhanced Rain Garden; or Streetfront Open Space. The size of this
Open Space shall be sufficient to (1) create or extend a pleasant pedestrian experience
on the adjacent public sidewalk or recreation path, (2) largely screen parking from the
street right-of-way, and (3) provide for additional usable open space on the parcel. The
open space shall represent a minimum of 35% of the total square footage of the parking
spaces (not including circulation infrastructure) proposed to be located in front of the
building.
3. The minimum required landscaping budget established by the Development
Review Board pursuant to Section 13.04 shall increase by a percentage that is equivalent
to the percentage of the total parking that is proposed to be located between a public
street and the building(s) on a lot. Of this total increased landscaping budget, the
percentage that must be dedicated to installation of landscaping in the front yard shall be
equivalent to the percentage of the total parking that is proposed to be located between
a public street and the building(s) (e.g., if the minimum required landscaping budget
before any increase was $100,000, and if 10% of the total parking for the lot is proposed
to be located between a public street and the building(s), then the minimum required
landscaping budget shall increase by 10%, for a new total landscaping budget of $110,000,
and no less than 10% of the new total landscaping budget, or $11,000, must be dedicated
to installation of landscaping in the front yard).
4. The applicant shall construct a safe, paved pedestrian access from the street to
the building’s main entrance.
5. The parking layout and circulation shall not interfere with safe pedestrian access
from the street to the building’s main entrance.
(c)
Parking area width. Surface parking areas and affiliated drive aisles located to the side of buildings
shall not exceed the width of building(s), Civic Spaces, and Site Amenities width along any street
frontage. This may be calculated separately or cumulatively for corner lots. Parking approved
pursuant to 14.07(B)(2)(b) shall be exempt from this subsection.
(d) For through lots, parking shall be located to the side of the building(s) or to the front of the
building adjacent to the public street with the lowest average daily volume of traffic. Where a lot
abuts an Interstate or its interchanges, parking shall be located to the side of the building(s) or to the
front adjacent to the Interstate. Parking areas adjacent to the Interstate shall be screened with
sufficient landscaping to screen the parking from view of the Interstate.
(3) Without restricting the permissible limits of the applicable zoning district, the height and scale of
each building shall be compatible with its site and existing or anticipated adjoining buildings.
C. Relationship of Structures and Site to Adjoining Area.
(1) The Development Review Board shall encourage the use of a combination of common materials
and architectural characteristics (e.g., rhythm, color, texture, form or detailing), landscaping, buffers,
screens and visual interruptions to create attractive transitions between buildings of different
architectural styles.
(2) Proposed structures shall be related harmoniously to themselves, the terrain and to existing
buildings and roads in the vicinity that have a visual relationship to the proposed structures.
(3) To accomplish (1) and (2), the DRB shall consider:
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South Burlington Land Development Regulations
(a) Pattern and Rhythm. Update or maintain or extend the overall pattern of development
defined by the planned or existing street grid, block configurations, position and orientation of
principal buildings, prevalence of attached or detached building types.
(b) Architectural Features. Respond to recurring or representative architectural features that
define neighborhood character, without adhering to a particular architectural style.
(c) Privacy. Limit impacts and intrusions to privacy on adjoining properties, including side and
back yard areas through context sensitive design.
D._____Civic Space Requirement
(1) Sites are required to include specific area for appropriate Site Amenities. This section does not
apply to projects within the City Center Form-Based Code area (which are governed by Section 8.08).
(2) Applicability. Applications for the following shall be required to provide Site Amenities:
(a) Any non-residential development over 5,000 SF
(b) Additions or expansions over 5,000 SF to existing non-residential structures
(c) Any residential development, including conversion of non-residential structures to
residential use
(3) The required area shall be:
(a) For Non-Residential development, a minimum of 6% of non-residential building gross floor
area.
(b) For Residential development, determined by number of units as:
(i) For less than 10 units, 100 square feet per unit;
(ii) For 10 to 19 units, 85 square feet per unit; or
(iii) For 20 or more units, 60 square feet per unit.
(4) The DRB may, in its discretion, provide credit for up to 50% of the required Site Amenity area if
the Applicant demonstrates a safe, walkable connection to existing Civic Space or public park accessible
by the general public and located within walking distance ¼ mile of at least one pedestrian access points
to all buildings on the lot.
(a) The DRB may, in its discretion, give partial credit for Civic Space if not all buildings have
access points within ¼ mile of the Civic Space.
(b) The DRB cannot reduce the remaining 50% of the Site Amenity requirement.
14.07 Specific Review Standards
In all Zoning Districts and the City Center Form Based Codes District, the following standards shall apply:
A. Environmental Protection Standards. All proposed development shall be subject to the applicable
requirements of Article 12, Environmental Protection Standards.
B. Site Design Features. All proposed development shall comply with standards for the placement of
buildings, parking and loading areas, landscaping and screening, open space, stormwater, lighting, and other
applicable standards related to site design pursuant to these Land Development Regulations.
C. Access and Circulation. All proposed development shall comply with site access and circulation
standards of Section 15.A.14.
D. Transportation Demand Management (TDM) [reserved]
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South Burlington Land Development Regulations
E. Building Form. Development within the City Center Form Based Code District, the Urban Design
Overlay District, and other districts with supplemental building form standards shall adhere to the standards
contained therein.
F. Streetscape Improvements. A proposed new construction or extension/expansion of an existing
structure exceeding the thresholds listed in either (a) Section 14.09(B) or (b) Section 8.11(D) within the City
Center Form Based Code, or Section 3.11(D) in all other zoning districts, shall be required to upgrade adjacent
sidewalks, greenbelts, and related street furniture (trees, benches, etc.) to the standards contained within the
applicable Street Type and Building Envelope Standard. Nothing in this subsection shall be construed to limit
requirements for additional upgrades as necessary to meet the requirements of these Regulations.
F. Access to Abutting Properties. The reservation of land may be required on any lot for provision of
access to abutting properties whenever such access is deemed necessary to reduce curb cuts onto an arterial
or collector street, to provide additional access for emergency or other purposes, or to improve general access
and circulation in the area.
G. Utility Services. Electric, telephone and other wire-served utility lines and service connections shall
be underground insofar as feasible and subject to state public utilities regulations. Any utility installations
remaining above ground shall be located so as to have a harmonious relation to neighboring properties and
to the site. Standards of Section 15.A.18, Infrastructure, Utilities, and Services, shall also be met.
H. Disposal of Wastes. All dumpsters and other facilities to handle solid waste, including compliance
with any recycling, composting, or other requirements, shall be accessible, secure and properly screened with
opaque fencing to ensure that trash and debris do not escape the enclosure(s). Small receptacles intended for
use by households or the public (ie, non-dumpster, non-large drum) shall not be required to be fenced or
screened.
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15.A-1
South Burlington Land Development Regulations
15.A SUBDIVISION REVIEW
15.A.16 Blocks and Lots
. . .
B. Lots. All lots must be laid out to logically relate to topography and their intended use or purpose.
Building lots must be laid out within existing and planned street and block configurations, in such a way
that they can be developed in full compliance with their intended use and these Regulations. Unless
otherwise specified under these Regulations as applicable to the subdivision:
(1) All proposed lots must be numbered, as shown on subdivision plans and plats.
(2) The arrangement and configuration of lots must allow for the further subdivision of any
remaining developable land on the tract or parcel to be subdivided. Where proposed building lots
exceed minimum lot area requirements, the DRB may require that such lots be configured and
developed in a manner that allows for further subdivision and infill development.
(3) Building or other lots for existing or planned public facilities or uses, including public parks, as
shown on the City’s Official map or proposed for dedication to the City, must be labeled and shown
as such on the subdivision plan and plat.
(4) Unless otherwise specified under these Regulations, a minimum of ten percent (10%) of the
total buildable area within the developed portion of any Major Subdivision exceeding two acres in
size must be allocated to functionally integrated civic space lots, as shown on the subdivision plan and
plat.
(a) Required civic space must incorporate one or more allowed Civic Space Types under
Article 11.B and meet associated type requirements.
(b) Designated civic space lots must have frontage on or pedestrian access from an abutting
street. The entrance to a civic space that does not front on an abutting street must be readily
visible, apparent, and accessible from the street.
(c) Civic space lots must be identified on the subdivision plat, and in associated legal
documents, as Civic Space lots to be maintained and managed in single or common ownership.
(d) For Major Subdivisions under six (6) acres, the DRB may, in its discretion, waive up to 50%
of the required Civic Space area if the Applicant demonstrates a safe, walkable connection to
existing publicly accessible Civic Space located within walking distance ¼ mile of at least one
pedestrian access points to all buildings in the subdivision.
i. The DRB may, in its discretion, give partial credit for Civic Space if not all buildings have
access points within ¼ mile of the Civic Space.
ii. The DRB cannot reduce the remaining 50% of the Civic Space requirement.
. . .
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15.B-1
South Burlington Land Development Regulations
15.B MASTER PLAN REVIEW
15.B.01 Purpose
15.B.02 Applicability
15.B.03 Review Process
15.B.04 Master Plan Components
15.B.05 Review Standards
15.B.06 Approval, Effect, Duration, Amendment
. . .
15.B.02 Applicability
(A) Required Approval. Master plan review and approval by the DRB is required prior to preliminary
subdivision review under Article 15.A, or site plan review under Article 14, as applicable, for:
(1) Any Major Subdivision involving four (4) or more acres, except for any portion of Transect
Zone Subdivision within the City Center Form Based Code District.
(2) Any land subdivision or site development proposed to occur over two (2) or more phases, or
three (3) or more years.
(3) A Planned Unit Development under Article 15.C unless, at applicant request, Master Plan
review is waived by the DRB for a PUD on less than four (4) acres under 15.C.03.
(4) Multiple Structures on a Single-User Lot or Complex, in accordance with Section 3.09.
(5) The DRB may also require the submission of a Master Plan for any tract or parcel of land where
there exists clear potential for future growth and development beyond that presented in an
application, as necessary to establish physical and functional connections between areas of proposed
and potential future development.
(B) Elective Review. An applicant may request Master Plan review for any project that involves two
(2) or more acres in any zoning district, except within the City Center FBC District.
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15.C-1
South Burlington Land Development Regulations
15.C PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT
15.C.01 Purpose
15.C.02 Applicability
15.C.03 Planned Unit Development Review
15.C.04 General PUD Standards Applicable to All PUD Types
15.C.05 Conservation Development
15.C.06 Traditional Neighborhood Development
15.C.07 General PUD
. . .
15.C.02 Applicability
A._____Floating Zone. For purposes of these Regulations, a Planned Unit Development (PUD) is an
unmapped overlay zoning district or “Floating Zone,” as allowed or required within an underlying zoning
district, which is applied to a particular tract or parcel of land proposed for subdivision and development.
A PUD is intended to function as a more flexible, design-based zoning district in which conservation or
form-based design standards also apply to proposed development. Where PUD standards differ from
underlying zoning district, site plan, or subdivision standards, PUD standards shall apply.
B._____PUD Types. The following types of Planned Unit Development are authorized under these
Regulations by Zoning District (Table 15.C.1), subject to the associated provisions and standards of review
for each PUD type:
(1) Conservation Development (CON) Section 15.C.05
(2) Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND) Section 15.C.06
(3) General PUD Section 15.C.07
C._____Required Planned Unit Development. PUD review and approval by the DRB under this Article is
required for any subdivision and development of a tract or parcel with a total area of four (4) or more
acres within any zoning district listed for CON PUD and TND PUDs under Table 15.C-1. General PUDs are
not mandatory in any district.
D._____Elective Planned Unit Development. An applicant may elect PUD review, as allowed within
specified zoning districts, for the subdivision and development of any tract or parcel:
(1) Less than four (4) acres that qualifies as a Conservation PUD under Subsection 15.C.05, in
which fifty percent (50%) or more of the total tract area includes one or more Hazard or Level I
Resource areas identified for protection under Article 12.
(2) Where the General PUD type is allowed under Table 15.C-1 or Section 15.C.07(C).
E._____PUD Type by Zoning District. The types of PUD allowed within an underlying zoning district are
specified by district in Table 15.C-1.
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15.C-2
South Burlington Land Development Regulations
Table 15.C-1 PUD Types by Zoning District
PUD Type Underlying Zoning Districts
Conservation Development (CON)
(1) R1-PRD, R1-Lakeshore, R1-Lakeview, R2,
Lakeshore, SEQ-NR, SEQ-NRT, SEQ-NRN, SEQ-VR,
SEQ-VC
(2) A tract or parcel in any PUD-allowed zoning
district in which a minimum of 50% of the total
tract or parcel area consists of Hazards and/or
Level I Resources (see Section 15.C.05)
Traditional Neighborhood Development (TND)
R1-PRD, R1-Lakeview, R1-Lakeshore, R2, R4, R7,
Lakeshore, Allen Road, Swift Street, R7-NC, SEQ-VR,
SEQ-VC
SEQ-NR, SEQ-NRN, SEQ-NRT, only in association
with a Conservation PUD, in a designated
Development Area with a minimum Buildable Area
of 4 acres
General PUD
(1) C1-R12, C1-R15, C1-AUTO, C1-AIR, C1-
LR, C2, IC, AIR, AIR-I, I-O, and IA.
(2) As described in Section 15.C.07(C).
(1) Planned Unit Development under this Article does not apply to subdivision and development
within those zoning districts for which no PUD type is specified. In addition:
(a) All PUD types are prohibited within any zoning district not listed in Table 15.C-1; and
(b) All PUD types are prohibited within the SEQ-NRP Subdistrict; except for land on a tract or
parcel within the SEQ-NRP that is included for conservation within a Conservation PUD.
15.C.04 General PUD Standards Applicable to All PUD Types
. . .
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Planning Commission Draft
February 23, 2022
NOTE: THIS ENTIRE SECTION IS PROPOSED TO BE ADDED. It is not marked as red-underlined
for ease of reading.
Page 1 of 5
15.C.07 General PUD 1
2
A.____Authority and Limitations. 3
(1) The Development Review Board (DRB) has the authority under 24 VSA § 4417 to review, to 4
approve, to approve with modifications and conditions, or to disapprove an application for a Planned 5
Unit Development (PUD), as further described in Section 15.C.01. 6
(2) Limitations on DRB authority under 14.04(A)(3)(b) apply. 7
(3) In addition, in no case shall the DRB vary: 8
(a) Density restrictions and/or allow an increase in overall density except as authorized via 9
use of Transferrable Development Rights or via Inclusionary Zoning. 10
(b) Requirements of the Urban Design Overlay District and Transit Overlay District, as 11
applicable. 12
(c) Applicable lot coverage and/or building coverage maximums allowed within each zoning 13
district, as measured across the PUD as a whole. 14
(d) Environmental Protection Standards under Article 12. 15
(e) Parking and building location requirements in Section 14.06(A)(2). 16
17
B.____General PUD Description, Purpose, and Characteristics. A General PUD is a type of planned 18
development that allows for relief from the strict dimensional standards for individual lots in order to 19
encourage innovation in design and layout and efficient use of land consistent with the Comprehensive 20
Plan. Defining characteristics of a General PUD include well-planned, sited, and designed development 21
projects that: 22
23
• Contribute to the City’s economic vitality, in response to changing markets and consumer 24
demand, by providing needed housing, goods, services, and employment opportunities. 25
• Redevelop underperforming properties and commercial strips (retrofits), contaminated sites 26
(brownfields), and large expanses of parking (gray fields) into more compact forms of walkable, 27
pedestrian-oriented, mixed-use development. 28
• Extend or re-establish existing street, sidewalk, and recreation path connections. 29
• Incorporate a density of development, compatible in design with the surrounding area, that 30
supports walkable residential, mixed use, and transit-oriented development. 31
• Improve the physical appearance, walkability, and amount of civic and green space within existing 32
residential neighborhoods, commercial centers, and commercial strip development. 33
• Introduce missing or complementary uses, facilities, services, amenities, or civic space intended 34
to serve the immediate and surrounding area. 35
• Foster context-sensitive transitions among and between neighborhoods, commercial areas, 36
mixed use areas, civic spaces, and natural resource areas. 37
• Support and enable affordable housing development. 38
• Conform to the goals in the City of South Burlington Comprehensive Plan. 39
40
41
C. Applicability. A General PUD is an allowed PUD type in the following circumstances: 42
(1) As an allowed PUD type as listed in Table 15.C-1. 43
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(2) In the R7-NC zoning district within four hundred (400) feet from frontage on an arterial road 1
(as defined in Article 2 as “Street, Arterial” shown in the Comprehensive Plan on Map 5 at time of 2
adoption of this section). 3
(a) Any remaining parcel depth shall be required to use the PUD type(s) otherwise required 4
for the parcel or, if no PUD type is required, will have the option of any elective PUD type available. 5
(b) Height restrictions are not waivable for General PUDs available under Section 6
15.C.07(C)(2)(a) or Section 3.07(D). 7
(3) For minor amendments to existing, approved PUDs as of [DATE of former regulations], 8
including existing, approved PUDs in zoning districts other than indicated by Section 15C.07(C), and 9
amendments to General PUDs approved under this Section. 10
(a) An amendment shall be considered “minor” if it does not significantly alter the overall 11
intent, scale, or relationship of the approved PUD to its surroundings. A minor amendment may 12
incorporate additional land not in the previous PUD, but only to the extent that it does not exceed 13
other requirements of this section. 14
(b) Amendments to CON PUDs and TND PUDs shall be made under 15.C.05 (CON PUD) or 15
15.C.06 (TND PUD), respectively. 16
17
D._____Conformance with PUD Standards. In addition to the specific standards under this Section, all 18
standards in Section 15.C.04 shall also apply. Application and review process for a General PUD is 19
governed by Section 15.C.03. 20
21
E._____Context. For planning and design purposes, “Planning Area” is defined as the area within ¼-mile 22
of the lot or parcel to be developed, as measured from the lot line or delineated PUD boundary. 23
24
F._____General PUD Compatibility and Context Analysis 25
(1) Compatibility. PUD compatibility with the Planning Area, as determined from a detailed 26
analysis of the Development Context, shall be a primary consideration in General PUD project design, 27
and for DRB review and approval. 28
(2) “Development Context” is defined to include: 29
(a) The prevalent or recurring pattern and form of development within the Planning Area, 30
including established street grid and streetscape elements, blocks, lots, buildings and yard areas, 31
civic spaces, and parking arrangements, and 32
(b) The character of the Planning Area, as defined by: 33
(i) The planned character of an area planned for redevelopment by the City as identified 34
in the Comprehensive Plan; 35
(ii) Approved, to-be-built or recently built (within ten (10) years) development projects 36
in the Planning Area; 37
(iii) Any updates to the underlying zoning district(s) within the previous ten (10) years in 38
the Planning Area; or 39
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(iv) Zoning district purpose statements, allowed uses, and district specific development 1
standards. 2
(v) As based on current zoning purpose statements, uses, and standards only if the DRB 3
finds there is no relevant information under (ii)(a), (b), and (c), or the DRB finds that there is 4
a clear, established neighborhood street, block, and lot pattern. 5
(3) Context Analysis. The applicant must submit a Context Analysis of the Development Context 6
within the Planning Area, which, at minimum, includes the information required for Master Plan 7
review under 15.B.04(C) and: 8
(a) Hazard, Level I, and Level II Resources regulated under Articles 10 and 12. 9
(b) Prevalent pattern of land subdivision and development in the area, as defined by block 10
lengths; building lot size and frontage distances; front, side, and rear setback distances; building 11
height and coverage; and existing parking arrangements. 12
(c) Streetscape elements, including the placement, orientation, and spacing of buildings 13
along the street, existing and planned sidewalks, and existing or planned landscaping, street 14
furniture, and lighting. 15
(d) Building types and styles, including any prevalent or character-defining architectural 16
features. 17
18
G._____General PUD Dimensional Standards. 19
(1) Relevant subdivision, site plan, zoning district, and applicable overlay district dimensional 20
standards shall form the basis of the design of a General PUD and shall apply unless modified, reduced, 21
or waived by the DRB under (2) below. 22
(a) The DRB must find an application meets the requirements of 15.C.07(G)(2) in order to 23
modify, reduce, or waive Site Plan requirements using 14.04(A)(3), Site Plan application 24
requirements using 14.05(G), Subdivision requirements using 15.A.01(B)(3), Scenic Overlay 25
District requirements using 10.02(I)(2), (J), and/or (K). 26
(b) The DRB has authority to allow alternative compliance under 15.C.04(C)(3). 27
(c) Height restrictions in underlying zoning districts may be modified, reduced, or waived by 28
the DRB under (2) below, except as noted in 15.C.07(C)(2)(b) above. 29
(d) The DRB cannot modify, reduce, or waive standards as listed in 15.C.07(A)(3). 30
(2) In response to the existing or planned Development Context in the Planning Area, the DRB 31
may modify, reduce, or waive one or more applicable dimensional standards as necessary to: 32
(a) Accommodate reductions in the available area associated with infill or redevelopment, 33
that result in insufficient acreage to meet applicable dimensional standards; or 34
(b) Allow for more creative and efficient subdivision and site layout and design that advances 35
the purposes of the underlying zoning district and/or the goals of the Comprehensive Plan, 36
particularly in response to existing site limitations that cannot be eliminated; or 37
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(c) Ensure that the pattern and form of proposed development is compatible with existing 1
or planned Development Context in the Planning Area determined under 15.C.07(F) and to 2
Transition Zone standards in 15.C.04(E); or 3
(d) Allow for greater energy efficiency, use of alternative energy, green building design, or 4
otherwise furthering of the South Burlington City Council’s Resolution on Climate Change dated 5
August 7, 2017. 6
(3) Context shall be determined by the existing or planned Development Context in the Planning 7
Area under Section 15.C.07(F) and (G). 8
9
H._____Development Density. 10
(1) Development Density regulations and definitions included in Section 15.C.04(D) shall apply to 11
General PUDs. 12
(2) Development density within a General PUD is determined by maximum development density 13
in the underlying zoning district, except as follows. 14
(a) Density can be re-allocated within the PUD area within single zoning districts; 15
(b) Additional density may be achieved through either or both Inclusionary Zoning and 16
application of Transferrable Development Rights where specifically authorized by and as 17
regulated by Section 18.01 or Section 9.05. 18
19
I._____General PUD Design Standards 20
(1) Design Standards, Generally. The design for a General PUD shall comply with existing Site 21
Plan, Subdivision, and Overlay District regulations and standards, but may allow for variations from 22
applicable regulations that respond to and incorporate the development context within the Planning 23
Area and under the specific circumstances listed in Section 15C.09(G)(4). 24
(2) Streets. Streets within a General PUD must be compatible with and connect to existing and 25
planned public street, sidewalk, and path networks in the Planning Area. 26
(a) Street and block pattern requirements of the Subdivision regulations shall apply unless 27
waived by the DRB under Section 15C.09(G)(4). 28
(3) Parking. Parking design and building location requirements applicable in all underlying zones 29
and districts apply to General PUDs, including all requirements in Section 14.06(A)(2). 30
(4) Buildings. Buildings and associated building lots within a General PUD must be compatible 31
with the development context in the Planning Area as described under Section 15.C.07(F) and (G). 32
(5) Civic Spaces and Site Amenities. Civic Spaces and/or Site Amenities must be compatible with 33
the existing or planned development context. General PUDs must comply with applicable Civic Space 34
and/or Site Amenity requirements in Subdivision (Section 15.A.16(B)(4)) and Site Plan (Section 35
14.06(4)). 36
(a) Section 15.A.16(C)(4) requirement for minimum 10% of the total buildable area to be civic 37
space lots apply to General PUDs only for PUDs that involve subdivision of land resulting in three 38
(3) or more lots, not including the resulting lots that only contain civic space(s). 39
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(b) In a General PUD, Civic Spaces required under Subdivision Regulations (Section 1
15.A.16(C)(4)) and under Site Plan Regulations (Section 14.06(4)) can be satisfied by a combination 2
of Civic Spaces, Site Amenities, or a combination, applied across the PUD area. 3
(6) Housing Mix. In a General PUD with more than four (4) residential dwelling units, a mix of 4
two or more dwelling unit types (as allowed within the applicable zoning district) must be provided as 5
described by Section 15.A.17. Types of dwelling units are differentiated by either housing type under 6
Article 11.C or, within multi-family structures with more than four (4) dwelling units, by number of 7
bedrooms per unit. 8
9
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575 Dorset Street South Burlington, VT 05403 tel 802.846.4106 fax 802.846.4101 www.sburl.com
South Burlington Planning Commission
Proposed Land Development Regulations
Amendment & Adoption Report
Planning Commission Public Hearing Tuesday, March 22, 2022, 7:00 pm
In accordance with 24 V.S.A. §4441, the South Burlington Planning Commission has prepared the
following report regarding the proposed amendments and adoption of the City’s Land Development
Regulations.
Outline of the Proposed Overall Amendments
The South Burlington Planning Commission will hold a public hearing on March 22, 2022 at 7:00 pm, in
person and via Zoom electronic platform, to consider the following amendments to the South Burlington
Land Development Regulations:
A. LDR-22-01: Establish a General Planned Unit Development Type for new PUDs and amendments to
existing PUDs
B. LDR-22-02: Establish Site Amenity requirements for new development, expansions, or residential
conversions subject to site plan review; add additional allowable Site Amenity types, and allow
partial credit to Site Amenity and Civic Space requirements for nearby publicly-accessible civic
spaces & parks
C. LDR-22-03: Augment Site Plan review standards of Relationship of Structures to the Site, and of
Relationship of Structures and Site and to Adjoining Area.
D. LDR-22-03: Minor and technical amendments to include:
• Adjust Master Plan applicability for single-user lots
• Definitions updates and corrections
Brief Description and Findings Concerning the Proposed Amendments
A. LDR-22-01: Establish a General Planned Unit Development Type for new PUDs and
amendments to existing PUDs
Brief Description of the Proposed Amendment
This amendment would create a “General Planned Unit Development” Type to accompany the
existing “Traditional Neighborhood” and “Conservation” PUD types.
2
The General PUD would be permissible in zoning districts where the other two PUD types are not
available as options and for minor amendments to pre-existing PUDs approved under prior
regulations.
The General PUD would allow the Development Review Board to vary site plan, subdivision, and
other dimensional and design standards of the Land Development Regulations in order to better
achieve stated goals enumerated therein based on the needs of the site. The Development Review
Board may, for identified purposes, permit modifications to lot sizes, arrangement of buildings and
lots, building setbacks and heights, and re-allocation of density within the PUD. The General PUD
does not authorize increases in lot coverage, development density not otherwise allowed in the
Regulations, additional land uses, modification to the Environmental Protection Standards, or non-
dimensional / design standards such as inclusionary zoning or energy codes.
Findings Concerning the Proposed Amendments
The proposed amendments have been reviewed by the Planning Commission in the context of the
text, goals, and objectives of the City of South Burlington’s Comprehensive Plan, adopted February 1,
2016. The Commission has addressed the following as enumerated under 24 VSA 4441(c):
“…The report shall provide a brief explanation of the proposed bylaw, amendment, or repeal and shall
include a statement of purpose as required for notice under section 4444 of this title, and shall include
findings regarding how the proposal:
1. Conforms with or furthers the goals and policies contained in the municipal plan, including the
effect of the proposal on the availability of safe and affordable housing.
The proposed General PUD is intended support the land use pattern envisioned through the
2016 Comprehensive Plan. The General PUD uses the City’s subdivision, site plan, zoning district
and general standards as the default and provides some flexibility in their application to meet
site-specific needs. A context assessment of the surrounding areas is required and provides
direction in the application of the standards. The General PUD will allow for site design and
layout that supports infill development, including housing, in difficult sites and where the
Development Review Board finds the intent of the Regulations are met. Relevant Comprehensive
Plan Objectives & Strategies:
Objective 3. Foster the creation and retention of a housing stock that is balanced in size and target income
level, is representative of the needs of households of central Chittenden County, and maintains an efficient
use of land for use by future generations.
Objective 5. Build and reinforce diverse, walkable neighborhoods that offer a good quality of life by
designing and locating new and renovated housing in a context-sensitive manner that will facilitate
development of a high-density, City Center, mixed used transit corridors, and compact residential
neighborhoods.
Objective 6. Continue to be an economic hub for the region consisten t with the land use goals of the city.
Objective 16: Build and reinforce diverse, accessible neighborhoods that offer a good quality of life by
designing and locating new and renovated development in a context-sensitive manner.
3
Objective 31. Conserve, restore and enhance biological diversity within the City, through careful site
planning and development that is designed to avoid adverse impacts to critical wildlife resources, and that
incorporates significant natural areas, communities and wildlife habi tats as conserved open space.
Objective 39: The majority of all new development will occur within the Shelburne Road, Williston Road,
and Kennedy Drive Corridors, and other areas within the Transit service area.
Strategy 8. Explore innovative land development regulations that allow for a range of residential building
and neighborhood types, including but not limited to cottage housing, clustered housing and infill
residential development.
Ongoing Activity 1: Continue to refine the City’s Land Development Regulations to promote the Plan’s goals
and objectives.
Ongoing Activity 15: Continue to encourage and consider incentivizing neighborhoods that use a mix of
housing types and integrate different types next to each other, rather than creating monoc ulture of one
type of housing.
2. Is compatible with the proposed future land uses and densities of the municipal plan.
The proposed amendments allow the DRB to vary dimensional and design standards within a
General PUD. They do not, however, alter the proposed or allowed land uses or densities
identified in the Comprehensive Plan.
3. Carries out, as applicable, any specific proposals for any planned community facilities.
The proposed amendments do not affect any specific proposals for planned community facilities.
B. LDR-22-02: Establish Site Amenity requirements for new development, expansions, or
residential conversions subject to site plan review; add additional allowable Site Amenity
types, and allow partial credit to Site Amenity and Civic Space requirements for nearby
publicly-accessible civic spaces & parks
Brief Description of the Proposed Amendment
This amendment would establish a common minimum requirement for new development or
residential conversions to include Site Amenities (private or common outdoor spaces for use by
residents/employees/visitors). Minimum amounts are 6% of non-residential building area or
between 60 and 100 s.f. per dwelling unit (depending on building size); both figures are drawn from
similar standards existing within the City Center Form Based Code. Site Amenity types are based on
those created for the City Center Form Based Code. Two additional types are proposed: indoor-
outdoor common area, and private balcony/porch.
The amendment would allow a Park or Civic Space that is located within ¼ mile to count towards
50% of the minimum requirement if that distance is a safe, walkable connection.
4
The amendment would also create allowances related to minimum Civic Space associated with
major subdivisions. The minimum Civic Space requirement is proposed to be allowed to be off-site,
with ¼ mile (safe & walkable) where the parcel to be subdivided is 6 areas in size or less.
Findings Concerning the Proposed Amendments
The proposed amendments have been reviewed by the Planning Commission in the context of the
text, goals, and objectives of the City of South Burlington’s Comprehensive Plan, adopted February
1, 2016. The Commission has addressed the following as enumerated under 24 VSA 4441(c):
“…The report shall provide a brief explanation of the proposed bylaw, amendment, or repeal and
shall include a statement of purpose as required for notice under section 4444 of this title, and shall
include findings regarding how the proposal:
1. Conforms with or furthers the goals and policies contained in the municipal plan, including the
effect of the proposal on the availability of safe and affordable housing.
The proposed amendments are identified in multiple places in the 2016 Comprehensive Plan.
Specific Goals and Objectives furthered by these amendments:
Objective 5. Build and reinforce diverse, walkable neighborhoods that offer a good quality of life by
designing and locating new and renovated housing in a context-sensitive manner that will facilitate
development of a high-density, City Center, mixed-used transit corridors, and compact residential
neighborhoods.
Objective 14. Seek a livable balance between public, commercial, and civic activity and private tranquility
and promote the health, peace, and well-being of residents in their daily lives.
Objective 15. For all new development, public and private, consider accessibility for users of differing ages
and physical abilities
Objective 16. Build and reinforce diverse, accessible neighborhoods that offer a good quality of life by
designing and locating new and renovated development in a context-sensitive manner.
Objective 30. Proactively plan for a network of interconnected and contiguous open spaces to conserve and
accommodate ecological resources, active and passive recreation land, civic spaces, scenic views and vistas,
forests and productive farmland and primary agricultural soils.
Strategy 35. Take into account the quality of life of residents, employees, and visitors in the development of
City policies, plans, projects, and regulations.
Strategy 68. Redefine open space in new developments such that usable, quality open space shall be
required. Qualifying open space should include civic spaces, recreation, wildlife habitat, and usable
agricultural lands.
Ongoing Action 11. Continue to build and reinforce diverse, walkable neighborhoods that offer a good
quality of life by designing and locating new and renovated housing in a context-sensitive manner.
5
Safe, immediate access to outdoor spaces – private or shared – supports affordability by assuring that all
residents are able to access the outdoors without having to own a car or use other forms of transportation.
Further, the establishment of site amenities does not require a reduction in density. Additionally, most
new housing in the past decade or more has included such amenities.
2. Is compatible with the proposed future land uses and densities of the municipal plan.
The Planning Commission finds the proposed amendment to be compatible with the proposed
future land uses and densities of the Comprehensive Plan.
3. Carries out, as applicable, any specific proposals for any planned community facilities.
The proposed amendments do not affect any specific proposals for planned community facilities.
C. LDR-22-03: Augment Site Plan review standards of Relationship of Structures to the Site,
and of Relationship of Structures and Site and to Adjoining Area.
Brief Description of the Proposed Amendment
The proposed amendments would provide direction to applicants and the Development Review
Board on applying these standards. This includes direction in consideration of Street Frontage,
Building Placement and Orientation, Contract of Scale, Pedestrian Orientation, Pattern & Rhythm,
Architectural Features, and Privacy.
Findings Concerning the Proposed Amendments
The proposed amendments have been reviewed by the Planning Commission in the context of the
text, goals, and objectives of the City of South Burlington’s Comprehensive Plan, adopted February
1, 2016. The Commission has addressed the following as enumerated under 24 VSA 4441(c):
“…The report shall provide a brief explanation of the proposed bylaw, amendment, or repeal and
shall include a statement of purpose as required for notice under section 4444 of this title, and shall
include findings regarding how the proposal:
1. Conforms with or furthers the goals and policies contained in the municipal plan, including the
effect of the proposal on the availability of safe and affordable housing.
The proposed amendments provide greater clarity to applicants and the DRB on application of
the existing standards in the Regulations. The proposed amendments do not directly impact the
availability of safe and affordable housing. However, the amendments will foster more context-
sensitive design in new development, which in turn supports walkability and, indirectly, overall
safety of environments through greater pedestrian use.
Specific Goals and Objectives furthered by these amendments:
6
Objective 5. Build and reinforce diverse, walkable neighborhoods that offer a good quality of life by
designing and locating new and renovated housing in a context-sensitive manner that will facilitate
development of a high-density, City Center, mixed used transit corridors, and compact residential
neighborhoods.
Objective 16: Build and reinforce diverse, accessible neighborhoods that offer a good quality of life by
designing and locating new and renovated development in a context-sensitive manner.
Strategy 35. Take into account the quality of life of residents, employees, and visitors in the development of
City policies, plans, projects, and regulations.
2. Is compatible with the proposed future land uses and densities of the municipal plan.
The Planning Commission finds the proposed amendment to be compatible with the proposed
future land uses and densities of the Comprehensive Plan.
3. Carries out, as applicable, any specific proposals for any planned community facilities.
The proposed amendments do not affect any specific proposals for planned community facilities.
D. LDR-22-04 Minor and technical amendments to include:
• Adjust Master Plan applicability for single-user lots
• Definitions updates and corrections
Brief Description of the Proposed Amendment
The amendments listed above represent minor adjustments to the regulations that promote
consistency in approach, policy, and organization within the Land Development Regulations.
Findings Concerning the Proposed Amendments
The proposed amendments have been reviewed by the Planning Commission in the context of the
text, goals, and objectives of the City of South Burlington’s Comprehensive Plan, adopted February
1, 2016. The Commission has addressed the following as enumerated under 24 VSA 4441(c):
“…The report shall provide a brief explanation of the proposed bylaw, amendment, or repeal and
shall include a statement of purpose as required for notice under section 4444 of this title, and shall
include findings regarding how the proposal:
1. Conforms with or furthers the goals and policies contained in the municipal plan, including the
effect of the proposal on the availability of safe and affordable housing.
The Comprehensive Plan supports consistency and streamlining of regulations.
Strategy 15. Conduct a comprehensive analysis of City regulations relating to permitting with an eye
toward ways to eliminate outdated or duplicative requirements and to further streamline the process of
7
obtaining needed permits with a specific focus on improving predictability of the process. Move as much of
the permitting process online as is viable to improve customer access and service.
2. Is compatible with the proposed future land uses and densities of the municipal plan.
The Planning Commission finds the proposed amendment to be compatible with the proposed
future land uses and densities of the Comprehensive Plan.
3. Carries out, as applicable, any specific proposals for any planned community facilities.
The Planning Commission finds the proposed amendment will not have any impact on planned
community facilities.
SOUTH BURLINGTON PLANNING COMMISSION
MEETING MINUTES
8 FEBRUARY 2022
1
The South Burlington Planning Commission held a regular meeting on Tuesday, 8 February 2022, at 7:00
p.m., in the Auditorium, City Hall, 180 Market Street, and via Zoom remote technology.
MEMBERS PRESENT: J. Louisos, Chair; M. Ostby, M. Mittag, D. Macdonald, P. Engels
ALSO PRESENT: P. Conner, Director of Planning and Zoning; K. Peterson, City Planning; C. Trombly, D.
Peters
1. Instructions on exiting the building in case of an emergency:
Ms. Louisos provided instructions on emergency exit from the building.
2. Agenda: Additions, deletions or changes in order of agenda items:
No changes were made to the agenda.
3. Open to the public for items not related to the Agenda:
No issues were raised.
4. Planning Commissioner announcements and staff report:
Ms. Louisos advised that at last night’s City Council meeting the Council adopted the Land Development
Regulations with a few small changes. The vote was not unanimous. The Council may come back to the
Commission with some questions.
Mr. Conner noted that South Burlington is now among, if not the, state leader in flood plain
management.
Ms. Ostby said she was asked to bring the issue of “rent vs. ownership” to the Affordable Housing
committee. She wasn’t clear what to ask them, so she has not yet raised that questions. She did note
that Ms. Louisos will be helping her with that, and Mr. Conner is working on something from a legal
point of view. Mr. Conner said regulations are not the only tool to address that issue (e.g., ARPA funds).
Mr. Mittag asked if there are ways it can be regulated as he had thought it was up to the developer what
to build. Mr. Conner said it is a complex area of law, and he did not want the Commission to rush into it.
He did note that there are buildings being built in South Village now that will be sale units. He added
that it interesting how markets can shift.
Mr. Mittag asked if there can be a mix of rent and buy in one building. Mr. Conner said he was not sure
what the legal landscape is for that.
Ms. Louisos said she knows the Affordable Housing Committee has looked at this in the past. She asked
whether they could direct the Planning Commission on how to do it, if they can’t do it themselves.
2
Mr. Macdonald said he would be very leery about regulating ownership vs rental. He would favor
incentivizing.
Ms. Ostby said she would like more information on how the Commission should receive information
from other committees. Ms. Louisos said committees have often gone through staff. Mr. Conner said
he and Ms. Louisos have begun to talk about how to get information from committees to the City
Council.
Mr. Mittag said there will be a lot of product from the Climate Action Task Force that will have an impact
on what the Planning Commission does going forward.
Mr. Engels noted that the Airport Rezoning’s public listening session had to be postponed due to the
snowstorm.
5. Discussion of General PUD Draft and updates to Site Plans and Master Plans:
Ms. Peterson said she had a conversation with DRB staff and got insight as to what would be helpful in
the review process.
a. Civic and open space:
Ms. Peterson said civic and open space do not have to be tied to the PUD tool. She noted that in the
meeting packet there was a requirement that is specific to the PUD. She noted that in the LDRs, there is
an open space requirement in subdivisions. The question is whether developments would be covered
by that requirement. Site plans also do require some civic or open space. Anything over 2 acres already
has that requirement. If you put it in a site plan, you would catch those developments. Ms. Peterson
said anything smaller than 2 acres a requirement would become burdensome.
Ms. Ostby said someone had asked her whether “private” outdoor space would qualify as civic or open
space. She felt this could be helpful in some of the smaller parcels.
Mr. Mittag said if a development is residential, civic/open space will influence the quality of life. He felt
they should require as much civic space as possible and suggested taller buildings with more open
space.
Ms. Peterson said the site plan requirements would be identical to what is required in the T-4 district of
Form Based Code. It would take that standard and apply it to all site plans.
Ms. Louisos asked about the type of open space that would count. Ms. Peterson directed attention to
Table 11B which enumerates types of open/civic space. All require some outdoor element, and site
amenities must be communal. “Per unit” does not qualify under that. Mr. Conner noted that when the
Planning Commission adopted the City Center Form Based Code, they did not want individual open
3
space to count. Mr. Mittag felt that was a good decision and did not think balconies should were a “civic
space.”
Mr. Conner cited an example of the Citco redevelopment got approval for a 2-1/2 story building. The
Form Based Code site amenity standard would likely be able to be accommodated on a property like
that. A larger amenity, however, could have the effect of shrinking the project. He noted that anything
that requires a site plan would have an amenity associated with it. A larger development would to have
to meet the civic space requirement. Ultimately, the role of a PUD would allow for creativity but not for
amounts.
Mr. Engels asked why not just extend Form Based Code to Shelburne Road. Mr. Conner explained that
they are moving in that direction with tools such as these. The reason for not going there formally is
that in the City Center it was a clear vision of what it would look like. Shelburne Road has more
variability (e.g., car dealerships). He felt they could get close to a Form Based Code but without the
formality that is in City Center.
Ms. Ostby asked if they go this route, would this be part of the General PUD package. Ms. Peterson said
it would. Ms. Ostby then asked whether a balcony could be part of that with under 2-acre site plans.
Ms. Peterson said that is not a bad idea, but it is more complicated.
Ms. Ostby asked what is within a quarter of a mile from Shelburne Rd. that could be considered open
space. Ms. Peterson said there would still be a requirement for on-site open space. If there is nothing
within a quarter of a mile, all the open space would be on site. Mr. Conner added that they could also
consider indoor common space and cited the new Larkin building which has an upstairs common area
with a view of Lake Champlain.
Ms. Peterson noted that the quarter-mile would have to be measured from the building exit in this draft.
Ms. Ostby reminded members that they are talking about major arteries. Children cannot cross
Shelburne Road, Kennedy Drive or Hinesburg Road. Ms. Peterson said the quarter-mile would have to
be “walkable.” Ms. Ostbly cited the need for extra care. Mr. Macdonald said the onus would have to be
on the developer to prove there is a safe, walkable connection.
Ms. Ostby cited the need to be careful of the definition of safety. She didn’t want a developer to prefer
to do a one-story bank. She noted that school buses are not even allowed to stop on Shelburne Road.
b. How the DRB can change standards
Mr. Mittag raised the question of what the DRB can and can’t waive. He said if they don’t allow waivers,
especially for height, they will never get the density or the affordability they want. Ms. Louisos said the
long-term answer is to go up to satisfy affordability. She noted that TDRs may play a role in it as well.
Mr. Mittag said that now that there is Inclusionary Zoning, they have to understand what the mission is:
whether they are building “homes for people.” He cited the need for 2 and 3 bedroom apartments for
families and studios for professionals.
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Ms. Louisos questioned whether they are missing anything regarding block size, etc. Mr. Conner said
the subdivision regulations can be used for that.
Ms. Peterson said that in site plan regulations 14.06a and 1406c, there are standards that the DRB has
been trying to apply without much directions. By moving the design standards there, it helps the DRB
clarify a standard they have been trying to apply. Mr. Conner showed the language of those sections.
He cited the CVS building on Williston Road as an example of the result of that issue.
Ms. Peterson noted that they have added a section that allows modifying a standard when it relates to
alternative energy and energy efficient goals.
Ms. Peterson then directed attention to specific language designed to address properties such as Hill
Farm. It would allow a more commercially oriented development closer to Hinesburg Road. The
General PUD would apply to the first 400 feet of Hinesburg Road and the TND would be appropriate
after that. The question is whether height is a concern. Mr. Conner noted that the zoning in R7-NC
must be a TND. If you take the new approach, the first 400 feet could just use the underlying zoning. He
showed a graphic to illustrate this.
Mr. Mittag urged caution in not blocking some of the best views in the city. Ms. Ostby suggested an
alteration to protect views, creating the gap at the southern end but keeping the height limit.
The issue of zoning for one property was raised. Mr. Conner said he was comfortable with this because
the Comprehensive Plan allows for a transition of uses.
Mr. Macdonald said he was comfortable with and noted they had promised something an NCD in that
area.
Members supported staff reaching out to the property owner to discuss.
Mr. Conner then addressed some “clean-up” things from what was adopted by the Council. He noted
that where the Master Plan applies to multiple buildings on a single or complex lot, there are some small
properties where the owner is making a small change that would now require a Master Plan. He felt
they might want to drop that or to streamline the Master Plan process. He noted that the first two
projects staff saw had this problem. Members were OK with removing the multiple buildings on a single
lot from the Master Plan requirement.
Mr. Conner said staff can have a cleaned up version in the next packet and the Commission can warn a
public hearing at its next meeting. This could get to the Council by late March.
6. Meeting Minutes:
Members asked to delay approval of the minutes.
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7. Other Business:
No other business was presented.
As there was no further business to come before the Commission, the meeting was adjourned by
common consent at 9:35 p.m.
________________________, Clerk