§ 46-632. Subdivision open space plan.

(a)

Intent. The intent of the subdivision and site condominium open space plan is to promote the following objectives:

(1)

Provide a more desirable living environment by preserving the natural character of open fields, stands of trees, brooks, hills and similar natural assets.

(2)

Encourage developers to use a more creative approach in the development of residential areas.

(3)

Encourage a more efficient, aesthetic and desirable use of open area while recognizing a reduction in development costs and by allowing the developer to bypass natural obstacles on the site.

(4)

Encourage the provision of open space within reasonable distance to all lot development of the subdivision or site condominium and to further encourage the development of recreational facilities.

(b)

Conditions. Modifications to the standards as outlined in section 46-629, schedule of regulations may be made in the one-family residential districts when the following conditions are met:

(1)

The lot area in all one-family residential districts, which are served by a public sanitary sewer system, may be reduced up to 20 percent. In the R-1 district, this reduction may be accomplished in part by reducing lot widths up to ten feet. In the R-2, R-3 and R-4 districts, this reduction may be accomplished in part by reducing lot widths up to five feet. These lot area reductions shall be permitted; provided that the dwelling unit density shall be no greater than if the land area to be subdivided or developed as a site condominium were developed in the minimum square foot lot areas as required for each one-family district under section 46-629, schedule of regulations.

(2)

Under the provisions of subsection (b)(1) of this section, for each square foot of land gained within a residential subdivision or site condominium through the reduction of lot size below the minimum requirements as outlined in the schedule of regulations at least equal amounts of land shall be dedicated to the common use of the lot owners of the subdivision or site condominium in a manner approved by the city.

(3)

The land area necessary to meet the minimum requirements of this section shall not include bodies of water, swamp or land with excessive grades making it unsuitable for recreation. All land dedicated shall be so graded and developed as to have natural drainage. The entire area may, however, be located in a floodplain.

(c)

Time limit. The subdivision or site condominium shall be started within 12 months after having received approval, and must be completed in a reasonable time. Failure to start within this period shall void all previous approval.

(Prior Code, § 5.173; Ord. No. 95-16, 7-17-1995)