HomeMy WebLinkAboutPart 300.General Procedures and .Land Use Code.1999Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations PART 300
PART 300 - GENERAL PROCEDURES AND REGULATIONS
26.304 COMMON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW PROCEDURES
26.304.010 General.
26.302.020 Pre -application conference.
26.304.030 Application and fees.
26.304.040 Initiation of development application.
26.304.050 Determination of completeness and review by the Community Development
Director.
26.304.060 Review of a development application by decision -making bodies.
26.304.070 Development orders.
26.304.075 Building Permit.
26.306 INTERPRETATIONS OF TITLE
26.306.010 Interpretation.
26.308 VESTED PROPERTY RIGHTS
26.308.010 Vested Property rights.
26.310 AMENDMENTS TO THE LAND USE REGULATIONS AND OFFICIAL
ZONE DISTRICT MAP
26.310.010
Purpose.
26.310.020
Standards of review.
26.310.030
Procedure for amendment.
26.310.040
Application.
26.310.050
Temporary suspension of building permits — Pending Ordinance.
26.310.060
Notation of planning and zoning commission resolution on official
zone district map.
26.310.070
Recordation of designation.
26.310.080
Placement on city's official zone district map.
26.310.090
Time limitations.
26.312 NONCONFORMITIES
26.312.010 Purpose.
26.312.020 Nonconforming uses.
26.312.030 Nonconforming structures.
26.312.040 Nonconforming accessory uses and accessory structures.
26.312.050 Lodge and hotel preservation.
26.312.060 Nonconforming lots of record.
26.312.070 Lot reduction.
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Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.304.010
26.314 VARIANCES
26.314.010
Purposes.
26.314.020
Authority.
26.314.030
Authorized variances.
26.314.040
Standards applicable to variances.
26.314.050
Procedure for variance approval.
26.314.060
Conditions.
26.314.070
Expiration.
26.314.080
Appeals.
26.316 APPEALS
26.316.010 Purpose.
26.316.020 Authority.
26.31 6.030 Appeal procedures.
City of Aspen Land Use Code Page - 48 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.304.010
Chapter 26.304
COMMON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW PROCEDURES
Sections:
26.304.010 General.
26.304.020 Pre -application conference.
26.304.030 Application and fees.
26.304.040 Initiation of application for development order.
26.304.050 Determination of completeness and review by the Community Development
Director.
26.304.060 Review of a development application by decision -making bodies.
26.304.070 Development orders.
26.304.075 Building Permit.
26.304.010 General.
This Chapter sets out the common procedures for review of all development applications,
unless otherwise specifically stated. Generally, all proposed development shall be subject to the
following six (6) step approval process.
(1) A pre -application conference between the applicant and a staff member of the
Community Development Department;
(2) Submission of the development application and fees by the applicant;
(3) Determination of completeness and review of the development application by the
Community Development Director;
(4) Review of the development application by the relevant decision -making body;
(5) Receipt of a development order or certificate of zoning compliance; and
(6) Receipt of a building permit.
26.304.020 Pre -application conference.
A. General. Prior to the formal filing of a development application, unless waived by the
Community Development Director, the applicant shall confer with a member of the staff of
the Community Development Department to obtain information and guidance regarding
the format and processing of the development application. The purpose of such a
conference is to permit the applicant and the Community Development Department staff to
review informally a proposed development and determine the most efficient method of
development review before substantial commitments of time and money are made in the
submission of an application. The Community Development Director may decide as part of
the pre -application process to hold pre -application work sessions with decision making
bodies if it is determined that such work sessions would provide the Community
Development Department or the applicant with additional information or guidance
necessary to the preparation or processing of an application for development.
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Section 26.304.010
B. Issues of discussion. Issues that may be discussed at the pre -application conference may
include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Proposed development. The applicant should describe the general nature of the
proposed development including, if applicable, proposed land uses and their densities;
proposed placement of buildings, structures, and other improvements; character and
location of common open space or treatment of public uses; preservation of natural
features; preservation of historic structures and landmarks; protection of
environmentally sensitive areas; proposed off-street parking and internal traffic
circulation; and total ground coverage of paved areas and structures.
2. Review procedure. The Community Development Department staff member shall
identify procedural review requirements for the proposed development and applicable
review standards and terms of this Title that apply to the review of the proposed
development. This should include identifying those stages of the common review
procedure which apply, which decision -making body or bodies will review the
development application, and the approximate length of the development review
procedure.
3. Ref
erral agencies. The Community Development Department staff member shall
identify the city, state, and federal agencies that are required to review the proposed
development, provide the applicant with persons at these agencies to contact about
review procedures, and generally describe the information which will be needed to
satisfy the concerns of the relevant city, state, and federal agencies.
4. Application contents. The Community Development Department staff member shall
establish the contents of the development application required to be submitted for the
proposed development. This should include descriptions of the types of reports and
drawings required, the general form which the development application should take, and
the information which should be contained within the application.
5. Application copies and fee. The Community Development Department staff member
shall identify the number of copies of the development application that are required to
be submitted for the proposed development, along with the amount of the fee needed to
defray the cost of processing the application, and an estimate of the number of hours of
staff review time associated with the fee.
6. Written summary. Following the conclusion of the conference, the applicant shall be
presented with a written summary of the meeting. One copy of this written summary
should be submitted back to the Community Development Department at the time of
submission of the development application.
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Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.304.010
26.304.030 Application and fees.
A. General. The requisite number of copies of the development applications shall be
submitted to the Community Development Director containing all of the information and
materials specified by the applicable Sections of this Title and such additional information
or materials identified in the pre -application conference. The development application shall
be accompanied by the applicable fee. (See Chapter 2.12 for schedule of fees.)
B. Application. At a minimum, all development applications shall include the following
information and materials.
1. Contained within a letter signed by the applicant, the applicant's name, address and
telephone number, and the name, address, and telephone number of any representative
authorized to act on behalf of the applicant.
2. The street address, legal description, and parcel identification number of the property
proposed for development.
3. A disclosure of ownership of the parcel proposed for development, consisting of a
current certificate from a Title insurance company, or attorney licensed to practice in the
State of Colorado, listing the names of all owners of the property, and all mortgages,
judgments, liens, easements, contracts and agreements affecting the parcel, and
demonstrating the owner's right to apply for the Development Application.
4. An 8 1/2" x 11" vicinity map locating the subject parcel within the City of Aspen.
5. A site plan depicting the proposed layout and the project's physical relationship to the
land and its surroundings.
6. A site improvement survey certified by a registered land surveyor, licensed in the State
of Colorado, showing the current status of the parcel including the current topography
and vegetation. (This requirement, or any part thereof, may be waived by the
Community Development Director if the project is determined not to warrant a survey
document.)
7. A written description of the proposal and a written explanation of how the proposed
development complies with the review standards relevant to the development
application.
8. Additional materials, documentation, or reports as deemed necessary by the Community
Development Director.
C. Consolidation of applications. If an applicant has requested the consolidation of development
applications, the Community Development Director may waive any overlapping application
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Section 26.304.030
submission requirements in the consolidated development application. (See Section 26.304.060(B),
Modification of Review Procedures).
D. Copyrighted materials. The City of Aspen will not accept for development application or
recordation purposes any materials to which copyright applications have been made unless
the applicant shall waive all claims and indemnify the City. Any person submitting a
development application shall consent that any document submitted to the City of Aspen as
part of the development application may be utilized by the City in any manner deemed
necessary, including, recording at the Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder, to preserve the
representations made during the development review process.
26.304.040 Initiation of application for development order.
An application for a development order may only be initiated by (1) a person or persons
owning more than fifty percent (50%) of the property subject to the development application and
proposed development; (2) the City Council or the Planning and Zoning Commission for the purpose
of amending the text of this Chapter or the official zone district map (Chapter 26.310) or to designate
a Specially Planned Area (SPA) (Chapter 26.440); and, (3) the City Council, Planning and Zoning
Commission, or Historic Preservation Commission for the purpose of designating an (H), Historic
Overlay District or historic landmark (Chapter 26.420).
26.304.050 Determination of completeness and review by the Community Development
Director.
A. Determination of completeness. After a development application has been received, the
Community Development Director shall determine whether the application is complete. If
the Community Development Director determines that the application is not complete,
written notice shall be served on the applicant specifying the deficiencies. The Community
Development Director shall take no further action on the application until the deficiencies
are remedied. If the application is determined to be complete, the Community
Development Director shall notify the applicant of its completeness. A determination of
completeness shall not constitute a determination of compliance with the substantive
requirements of this Title and it shall not preclude a request for additional information or
materials in the future to complete the review of the development application. Upon a
determination of completeness, the applicant may be asked to submit additional copies of
relevant documents as requested.
B. Review and recommendation by Community Development Director.
1. Comments on application froni City staff. When the development application is
determined complete by the Community Development Director, copies shall be
distributed to appropriate City staff persons, departments and referral agencies. Any
comments from the Department of Community Development and other referral agencies
shall be returned to the Community Development Director prior to submitting a
recommendation to the applicable decision -making body.
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Section 26.304.040
2. Report and recommendation. The Community Development Director shall compile all
comments and recommendations from appropriate City staff persons, departments, and
referral agencies, and shall make a written report and recommendation to the
appropriate decision -making body on the development application. The written report
and recommendation shall state whether the application conforms to the review
standards pertaining to the relevant development approval sought and whether it should
be continued, approved, approved with conditions, or disapproved. The Community
Development Director shall attach any referral agency comments to the report and
recommendation.
C. Setting the hearing. The Community Development Director shall establish a place and
time certain for the hearing, if required, on the development application, pursuant to the
requirements of this Title. If the hearing is a public hearing required to be noticed, the
applicant or the Community Development Director shall cause public notice to be given
pursuant to the procedure and requirements established in Section 26.304.060(E).
26.304.060 Review of a development application by decision -making bodies.
A. Review Procedures and Standards. Specific development review procedures and
standards for different types of development applications. are set forth in the relevant
Chapters of this Title. They include the following:
Permitted Uses: Chapter 26.404
Variances: Chapter 26.314
Residential Design Standards: Chapter 26.410
Development in an "H," Historic Overlay District or involving the inventory of historic
sites and structures: Chapter 26.415
Historic Overlay District and Historic Landmarks: Chapter 26.420
Conditional Uses: Chapter 26.425
Special Review: Chapter 26.430
Development in Environmentally Sensitive Areas: Chapter 26.435
Specially Planned Areas (SPA): 26.440
Planned Unit Developments (PUD): Chapter 26.445
Temporary Uses: Chapter 26.450
Growth Management Quota System (GMQS): Chapter 26.470
Subdivision: Chapter 26.480
Amendments to Text and Zone District Map: Chapter 26.310
B. Modification of review procedures.
1. Combined reviews. The procedures for reviewing development plans and applications where
more than one development approval is being sought simultaneously may be combined
or modified whenever the Community Development Director determines, in
consultation with the applicant, that such combination or modification would eliminate
or reduce duplication and ensure economy of time, expense and clarity; provided,
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Section 26.304.060
however, that all public noticing normally associated with the subject development
application(s) is maintained, and that a thorough and full review of the application and
proposed development as otherwise required by this Title is achieved.
2. Sketch plan review. If the Community Development Director, in consultation with the
applicant, determines that a proposed development application may be complex, have
the potential for significant community interest, involves a public facility, or the
proposed project would benefit from additional community input, the Community
Development Director may schedule a joint meeting with the City Council and either
the Planning and Zoning Commission, the Historic Preservation Commission, or both,
for a sketch plan review. A sketch plan review may be held either before or after an
application is submitted and determined to be sufficiently complete by the Director of
the Community Development Department. If it is scheduled after an application is
determined complete by the Community Development Director, the sketch plan review
meeting shall be conducted prior to any other land use review proceeding required by
this Code. A sketch plan review meeting shall be noticed by publication, mailing and
posting, (See Section 26.304.060(E)(3)), and the joint meeting shall be conducted as a
public meeting. The minutes of the joint meeting shall become part of the formal record
of the proceedings before the City Council and the decision -making body which has
been invited to attend the joint meeting with the City Council. A quorum of the City
Council shall not be required to conduct a sketch plan review hearing. The Community
Development Director may invite particular members of the public (stakeholders) to
attend and participate in the sketch plan review hearing. At the conclusion of the public
meeting, the members of the City Council, decision -making body invited to attend the
joint meeting, and stakeholders (if invited to attend) may offer the applicant advisory
suggestions regarding the proposed application, but shall not make any decisions
regarding the application for development. Applicants shall not be entitled to rely upon
any decisions, comments, or suggestions made by the members of the joint public
meeting as no attempt shall be made to approve a development proposal even on a
conceptual level at a sketch plan review.
C. General hearing procedures. The following general procedures shall apply to the conduct
of all hearings regarding the review of a development application by decision -making
bodies.
1. Oath or afflnnation. The chairperson of the decision -making body or the Mayor may
require that testimony and evidence shall be given under oath or by affirmation to the
body conducting the hearing.
2. Rights of all persons. Any person may appear at a public hearing and submit evidence
either individually or as a representative of another person or an organization. The
chairperson of the decision -making body or the Mayor may require anyone representing
another person or an organization to present written evidence of their authority to speak
on behalf of the person or the organization in regard to the matter under consideration.
Each person who appears at a public hearing shall be identified and, if appearing on
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Section 26.304.060
behalf of another person or an organization, state the name and mailing address of the
person or the organization.
3. Due order of proceedings. The decision -making body conducting the hearing may
exclude testimony or evidence that it finds to be irrelevant, immaterial or unduly
repetitious. The order of proceedings shall be as follows:
a. The Community Development Director shall present a narrative and/or graphic
description of the development application.
b. The Community Development Director shall present a written and oral
recommendation. This recommendation shall address each factor required to be
considered by this Title and the Aspen Area Community Plan prior to development
approval and shall be made available to the applicant and to the decision -making
body at least two (2) working days prior to the hearing.
c. The applicant shall have the burden to demonstrate that the application and proposed
development comply with all applicable provisions of this Title and the Community
Plan, and to present all information deemed necessary and appropriate to evaluate the
development proposal. The applicant must also demonstrate, through an affidavit,
that all required public notice regarding the application review process was timely
given in accordance with this Title.
d. The Community Development Director may respond to any statement made by the
applicant or any public comment.
e. The applicant may respond to any testimony or evidence presented by the
Community Development Director or public.
4. 'Testimony. In the event any testimony or evidence is excluded as irrelevant, immaterial
or unduly repetitious, the person offering such testimony or evidence shall have an
opportunity to make a proffer in regard to such testimony or evidence for the record.
Such proffer shall be made prior to the conclusion of the hearing.
5. Continuance of hearing. The decision -making body conducting the hearing may, on its
own motion or at the request of any person, continue the hearing to a fixed date, time
and place. Assuming valid notice was properly given in the first instance, no second or
new notice shall be required where a hearing is continued. An applicant shall have the
right to request and be granted one continuance; however, all subsequent continuances
shall be granted at the discretion of the decision -making body conducting the hearing,
only upon good cause shown. Where a public hearing has been adjourned, the hearing
may only be reconvened upon the giving of all notice(s) as would be required for an
initial public hearing.
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Section 26.304.060
6. Other rules to govern. Other matters pertaining to the public hearing shall be governed
by other provisions of the Municipal Code of the City of Aspen, Colorado, applicable to
the decision -making body conducting the hearing and its adopted rules of procedure, so
long as the same are not in conflict with this Title. The City's decision -making bodies
may adopt rules of procedure to limit the number of development applications which
may be considered at a hearing.
7. Record.
a. Records of hearing. All hearings shall be recorded by audio -tape or other similar
recording device. A copy of the audio tape of a hearing shall be provided upon the
request of any person and the payment of a fee covering the reasonable cost thereof.
b. Record. The 'transcript of oral proceedings, including testimony and statements of
personal opinions, the minutes of the secretary, all applications, exhibits and papers
submitted in any proceeding before the decision -making body, the report and
recommendation of the Community Development Director, and the decision and
report of the decision -making body shall constitute the record.
D. Actions by decision -making bodies. All decision -making bodies shall act in accord with
the time limits established in this Title. Action shall be taken as promptly as possible in
consideration of the interests of the citizens of the City of Aspen. Depending upon which
decision -making body has final approval authority over a given development application, a
site specific development plan may only be approved by written resolution of the Planning
and Zoning Commission or Historic Preservation Commission, or by ordinance adopted by
the City Council. Any land use approval which places any burden upon or limits the use of
private property shall be by ordinance. All resolutions and ordinances granting final
approval for a site specific development plan shall:
1. Be preceded by a public hearing following public notice by publication (See Section
26.304.060(E)(3)(a), below); and
2. Include the following provisions:
a. The rights granted by the approval of this site specific development plan shall remain
vested for a period of three (3) years from the effective date of the approved
development order. However, any failure to abide by any of the terms and conditions
attendant to this approval shall result in the forfeiture of said vested property rights.
Failure to properly record all plats and agreements required to be recorded by this
Code within 180 days of the effective date of the development order shall also result
in the forfeiture of said vested property rights and shall render the development order
void within the meaning of Section 26.104.050 (Void permits).
b. The approval granted hereby shall be subject to all rights of referendum and judicial
review; the period of time permitted by law for the exercise of such rights shall not
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Section 26.304.060
begin to run until the date of publication of the notice of final development approval
as required under Section 26.304.070(A) of this Chapter.
C. Zoning that is not part of the approved site specific development plan shall not result
in the creation of a vested property right.
d. Nothing in this approval shall exempt the development order from subsequent
reviews and approvals required by this approval of the general rules, regulations and
ordinances or the City of Aspen provided that such reviews and approvals are not
inconsistent with this approval.
e. The establishment of a vested property right shall not preclude the application of
ordinances or regulations which are general in nature and are applicable to all
property subject to land use regulation by the City of Aspen including, but not
limited to, building, fire, plumbing, electrical and mechanical codes. In this regard, as
a condition of this development approval, the applicant shall abide by any and all
such building, fire, plumbing, electrical and mechanical codes, unless an exemption
therefrom is granted in writing by the City.
E. Public notice.
1. General. Whenever a notice of a public hearing is required, notice shall be provided to
the public, pursuant to the terms of this Section.
2. Content of notice. Every notice shall include the name and address of the applicant, the
type of development application sought, date, time and place of the hearing, the address
and legal description of the subject property if applicable, a summary of the
development application under consideration, and identification of the decision -making
body conducting the hearing and such other information as may be required to fully
apprise the public of the nature of the application.
I Manner of notice. Every notice shall be given in one or more of the following manners,
as specified in this Title for each type of development:
a. Publication of notice. Publication of notice shall be provided by the applicant or the
Community Development Department at least fifteen (15) days prior to the public
hearing through publication in the legal notice section of an official paper or a paper
of general circulation in the City of Aspen.
b. Posting of notice. Posting of notice shall be made by the applicant, who shall obtain a
copy of the form from the Community Development Department. The notice shall be
posted at least ten (10) days prior to the public hearing, by posting a sign in a
conspicuous place on the property subject to the development application. The sign
shall be made of suitable, waterproof materials, shall be not less than twenty-two
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Section 26.304.070
(22) inches wide and twenty-six (26) inches high, and shall be composed of letters
not less than one inch in height.
C. Mailing of notice. Mailing of notice shall be made by the applicant, who shall obtain
a copy of the notice from the Community Development Department. The mailing
shall contain that information described in Section 26.304.060(E)(2). At least ten
(10) days prior to the public hearing, notice shall be sent by first class, postage
prepaid U.S. mail, or hand delivered, to all owners of property within three hundred
(300) feet of the property subject to the development application, and at least fifteen
(15) days prior to the public hearing, notice shall be sent by first class, postage pre-
paid U.S. mail or hand delivery to any federal agency, state, county, municipal
government, school, service district or other governmental or quasi -governmental
agency that owns property within three hundred (300) feet of the property subject to
the development application. The names and addresses of property owners shall be
those on the current tax records of Pitkin County as they appeared no more than sixty
(60) days prior to the date of the public hearing.
e. Rezoning or text amendment. Whenever the official zoning district map is in any way
to be changed or amended incidental to or as part of a general revision of this Title,
or whenever the text of this Title is to be amended, whether such revision be made by
repeal of this Title and enactment of a new land use regulation, or otherwise, the
requirement of an accurate survey map or other sufficient legal description of, and
the notice to and listing of names and addresses of owners of real property in the area
of the proposed change, shall be waived. However, the proposed zoning map shall be
available for public inspection in the planning agency during all business hours for
fifteen (15) days prior to the public hearing on such amendments.
26.304.070 Development orders.
A. Publication of development approval. No later than fourteen (14) days following final
approval of all requisite reviews necessary to obtain a development order as set forth in this
Title, the City Clerk shall cause to be published in a newspaper of general circulation
within the jurisdictional boundaries of the City of Aspen, a notice advising the general
public of the approval of a site specific development plan and creation of a vested property
right pursuant to this Title. Such notice shall be substantially in the following form:
Notice is hereby given to the general public of the approval of a site specific
development plan, and the creation of a vested property right pursuant to the Land Use
Code of the City of Aspen and Title 24, Article 68, Colorado Revised Statutes,
pertaining to the following described property: [parcel address and legal description],
by [ordinance or resolution] of the [City Council or other appropriate decision making
body], numbered: [enter ordinance or resolution number].
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Section 26.304.070
B. Development order - issuance. Following the publication of the published notice as set
forth at Section 26.304.070(A) above, the Community Development Director shall issue a
written development order which shall contain, at a minimum, the following information:
1. The property owner's name, mailing address and telephone number.
2. The street address and legal description of the parcel.
3. A written description of the site specific plan.
4. Identification of the land use approvals received and the date of such approvals. A copy
of the ordinance(s) or resolution(s) shall be attached.
5. The effective date of the development order.
6. A notice disclosing to the applicant the expiration date of the development order and the
availability of a procedure for seeking an extension of the development order pursuant
to Section 26.308.010(C).
C. Effective date of the development order. The effective date of a development order
including one which authorizes allotments under the Growth Management Quota System
pursuant to Chapter 26.470, shall be the date of publication of the notice of the approval of
the site specific development plan as set forth at Section 26.304.070(A).
D. Expiration of development order. The development order and all associated vested
property rights, including allotments received pursuant to Chapter 26.470, shall expire on
the day after the third anniversary of the effective date of the development order, unless a
building permit is approved pursuant to Section 26.304.075, or unless an exemption from
or extension of the approval is granted by the City Council. Subdivisions composed of
detached residential or duplex units shall be eligible for exemption from these expiration
provisions pursuant to Section 26.308.010(B). Developments of any type other than a
subdivision composed of detached residential or duplex units shall be eligible for extension
of these expiration provisions pursuant to Section 26.308.010(C).
E. Revocation of development order. The approval of a site specific development plan and
subsequent issuance of a development order may be made with or without conditions.
Failure to fully abide by the terms of any of the conditions of approval may result in the
revocation of the development order and all associated vested property rights in accordance
with Section 26.308.010(D).
F. Abandonment of application. If an applicant fails to pursue the approval of a site specific
development plan in a timely fashion after filing an application for same, the application
shall be considered abandoned. For purposes of this subsection, failure to pursue the
approval of a site specific development plan in a timely fashion shall mean a failure on the
part of the applicant to take any action with the Community Development Department in
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Section 26.304.075
furtherance of the application for a period of at least one year. An abandoned application
shall render all previously issued land use approvals which do not constitute the approval
of a site specific development plan void unless the Community Development Director
determines that reinstatement of the application is in the best interests of the City.
26.304.075 Building Permit.
A. Application.
1. Recordation. Prior to the submission of an application for a building permit, all
documents reflecting and memorializing final development approval for which a
building permit is requested shall be recorded in the Pitkin County Clerk and Recorder's
Office. Proof of such recording shall accompany the building permit application.
Documents reflecting or memorializing final development approval shall include, but
not be limited to, a final plat, a resolution or ordinance granting final development
approval, a subdivision or other improvements agreement, a development agreement,
and/or deed restrictions which may be required as a condition of development approval.
2. Contents. An application for a building permit shall be submitted to the Chief Building
Official on a form prescribed by the Community Development Director. Attached to the
application shall be a copy of the development order (if applicable), an improvements
survey performed within one (1) year of the date of *application which the applicant shall
certify represents current site conditions, and a topographic survey for the property
certified by a registered land surveyor. The improvements survey shall include a site
plan which conforms to the requirements set forth at Section 13.20.020(b)(2) for a tree
removal permit.
B. Processing. Upon receipt of a completed application, the Chief Building Official shall
timely refer copies of same to the Community Development Department and such other
appropriate City staff and/or departments and outside agencies for review and comments.
The application shall be evaluated to determine whether the proposed development:
1. Complies with the Uniform Building Code and other applicable construction codes;
2. Complies with zoning requirements;
3. Requires, or has satisfied, environmental and utility permitting, including, but not
limited to, water, sewerage, and tree removal;
4. Satisfies all conditions of approval as set forth in the development order.
C. Certificate of development approval compliance. Upon the return and review of all
referral comments to the Chief Building Official, the building permit application and all
supporting documents shall be forwarded to the Community Development Director who
shall determine whether the application and proposed development complies with the
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Section 26.306.010
commitments, representations and conditions of any development approvals and/or order
for the development, and with all other applicable requirements of this Title. If the
Community Development Director determines that the application is not complete, does
not comply with the requirements of this Title, or does not comply with the development
approval(s) or order for the development, written notice shall be timely provided to the
applicant specifying the deficiencies. No further action shall be taken on the application
until all deficiencies are remedied by the applicant. If and when the applicant cures all
deficiencies, the Community Development Director shall again determine compliance of
the application and proposed development with all applicable regulations and with any
development approval(s) and/or order for the development. If the Community
Development Director finds compliance, then a certificate of development approval
compliance shall issue, which certificate shall become part of the building permit
application and be attached thereto.
C. Issuance of Building Permit. Upon the receipt by the Chief Building Official of a
certificate of development approval compliance, the Chief Building Official's
determination that all application information is complete and satisfactory, and all
outstanding fees are paid, a building permit shall issue.
City of Aspen Land Use Code Page - 61 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.306.010
Chapter 26.306
INTERPRETATIONS OF TITLE
26.306.010 Interpretation.
A. Authority. The Community Development Director shall have the authority to make all
interpretations of the text of this Title and the boundaries of the zone district map.
B. Initiation. An interpretation may be requested by any affected person, any resident or real
property owner in the City of Aspen, or any person having a contractual interest in real
property in the City of Aspen.
C. Procedures.
1. Submission of request for interpretation. Before an interpretation shall be provided by
the Community Development Director, a request for interpretation shall be submitted to
the Community Development Director.
2. Determination of completeness. Within fifteen (15) days after a request for
interpretation has been received, the Community Development Director shall determine
whether the request is complete. If the Community Development Director determines
the request is not complete, he shall serve a written notice on the applicant specifying
the deficiencies. The Community Development Director shall take no further action on
the request for interpretation until the deficiencies are remedied.
3. Rendering of interpretation. After the request for interpretation has been determined
complete, the Community Development Director shall render an interpretation within
fifteen (15) days. The Community Development Director may consult with the City
Attorney and review this Title and the zone district map, whichever is applicable, before
rendering an interpretation.
D. Form. The interpretation shall be in writing and shall be sent to the applicant by certified
mail.
E. Official record. The Community Development Director shall maintain an official record of
all interpretations in the Community Development Department, which shall be available
for public inspection during normal business hours.
F. Appeal. Any person who has made a request for interpretation may appeal the
interpretation of the Community Development Director to the City Council in accordance
with the appeal procedures set forth at Chapter 26.316.
City of Aspen Land Use Code Page - 62 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.308.010
Chapter 26.308
VESTED PROPERTY RIGHTS
26.308.010 Vested property rights.
A. Rights conferred. A development order creates and constitutes a vested property right,
subject to expiration (See Section 26.304.070(D)), revocation (See Section 26.304.070(E)),
and all rights of referendum and judicial review, which shall preclude any zoning or land
use action by the City of Aspen or pursuant to an initiated measure which would alter,
impair; prevent, diminish, or otherwise delay the development or use of the property as set
forth in the development order, except:
1. With the consent of the applicant;
2. Upon the discovery of natural or manmade hazards on or in the immediate vicinity of
the property, which hazards could not reasonably have been discovered at the time of
this approval, and which hazards, if uncorrected, would pose a serious threat to the
public health, safety and welfare; or
3. To the extent that compensation is paid as provided in Title 24, Article 68, C.R.S.
B. Exemption from expiration of development order.
1. The City Council may by resolution at a public hearing noticed by publication (See
Section 26.304.060(E)(3)(a)) approve an exemption of the expiration of a development
order and associated vested rights in accordance with this Section. Subdivisions
composed of detached residential or duplex units shall be eligible for exemption from
the expiration provisions of Section 26.304.070(D). To obtain an exemption, an
application for exemption shall be submitted at any time prior to the third anniversary of
the effective date of the development order which shall demonstrate to the satisfaction
of City Council that:
a. Those conditions applied to the project at the time of its final approval that were to
have been met as of the date of application for exemption have been complied with;
and
b. Any public or private improvements that were required to be installed by the
applicant prior to construction of any dwelling unit have been installed.
2. An exemption from the expiration of a development order shall have no time limit.
City of Aspen Iand Use Code Page - 63 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.308.010
C. Extension or Reinstatement of Vested Rights. The City Council may by resolution at a
public hearing noticed by publication (See Section 26.304.060(E)(3)(a)) approve an
extension or reinstatement of an expired or revoked development order and associated
vested rights in accordance with this Section.
1. In reviewing a request for the extension or reinstatement of a development order and
associated vested rights, the City Council shall consider, but not be limited to, the
following criteria:
a. The applicant's compliance with any conditions requiring performance prior to the
date of application for extension or reinstatement;
b. The progress made in pursuing the project to date including the effort to obtain any
other permits, including a building permit, and the expenditures made by the
applicant in pursuing the project;
C. The nature and extent of any benefits already received by the City as a result of
project approval such as impact fees or land dedications;
d. The needs of the City and the applicant that would be served by approval of the
extension or reinstatement request.
2. An extension or reinstatement may be in the form of a written agreement duly
authorized and executed by the applicant and the City. Reasonable conditions may be
imposed by the City Council including, but not limited to, compliance with any
amendments to this title adopted subsequent to the effective date of the development
order.
3. If the request is for reinstatement of a revoked development order, the City Council
shall determine the financial impacts of the investigation and may require the applicant
to pay the reasonable costs of investigation, enforcement and reporting by City staff.
D. Revocation. The City Council may by resolution at a public hearing noticed by publication
and mailing to the applicant (See Section 26.304.060(E)(3)) revoke a development order
and associated vested rights upon a finding that:
1. The terms and conditions of the development order have not been met; or
2. The development order is void within the meaning of Section 26.104.050.
City of Aspen Land Use Code Page - 64 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations Section 26.310.010
Chapter 26.310
AMENDMENTS TO THE LAND USE CODE AND OFFICIAL ZONE DISTRICT MAP
Sections:
26.310.010 Purpose.
26.310.020 Procedure for amendment.
26.310.030 Application.
26.310.040 Standards of review.
26.310.050 Temporary suspension of building permits.
26.310.060 Notation of Planning and Zoning Commission resolution on official zone district
map.
26.310.070 Recordation of designation.
26.310.080 Placement on city's official zone district map.
26.310.090 Time limitations.
26.310.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to provide a means for amending the text of this Title and the
official zone district map. It is not intended to relieve particular hardships or confer special privileges
or rights on any person.
26.310.020 Procedure for amendment.
A. General An application for amendments to the Land Use Code or the official zone district
map may be initiated by the persons and decision -making bodies identified in Section
26.304.040, and shall be processed in accordance with the Common Development Review
Procedures set forth at Chapter 26.304.
B. Steps Required. Unless initiated by the City Council in accordance with subsection C
below, two steps are required: (a) a public hearing before the Planning and Zoning
Commission, and (b) a public hearing before the City Council.
1. Step One - Public Hearing before Planning and Zoning Commission.
a. Purpose: To determine if application meets standards for amendment to code text
or official zone district map.
b. Notice requirements: Publication. (See 26.304.060(E)(3)(a)).
2. Step Two - Public Hearing before City Council.
a. Purpose: To determine if application meets standards for amendment to code text
or official zone district map.
City of Aspen Land Use Code Page - 65 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.310.030
b. Notice requirements: None, except requisite notice requirements for adoption of
an ordinance by City Council.
C. Emergency amendments to Land Use Code by City Council. Notwithstanding the
procedures for review set forth above, and consistent with the authority of the City Council
to adopt emergency ordinances pursuant to Section 4.11 of the City Charter, for the
preservation of public property, health, peace, or safety, the City Council may amend this
Title in accordance with the procedures set forth at Section 4.11 of the City Charter
(Emergency ordinances.)
26.310.030 Application.
The development application for amendment to the text of this Title or amendment to the
official zone district map shall include:
A. The general application information required in Section 26.304.030.
B. If the application requests an amendment to the text of this Title, the precise wording of
any proposed amendment.
C. If the application requests an amendment to the official zone district map:
1. The present zone district classification and existing land uses of the real property
proposed to be amended.
2. The area of the property proposed to be amended, stated in square feet .or acres, or a
major fraction thereof.
3. An accurate survey map of the real property proposed for amendment.
26.310.040 Standards of review.
In reviewing an amendment to the text of this Title or an amendment to the official zone
district map, the City Council and the Planning and Zoning Commission shall consider:
A. Whether the proposed amendment is in conflict with any applicable portions of this Title.
B. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent with all elements of the Aspen Area
Community Plan.
C. Whether the proposed amendment is compatible with surrounding zone districts and land
uses, considering existing land use and neighborhood characteristics.
D. The effect of the proposed amendment on traffic generation and road safety.
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Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.310.070
E. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would result in demands on
public facilities, and whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would
exceed the capacity of such public facilities, including but not limited to transportation
facilities, sewage facilities, water supply, parks, drainage, schools, and emergency medical
facilities.
F. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would result in significantly
adverse impacts on the natural environment.
G. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent and compatible with the community
character in the City of Aspen.
H. Whether there have been changed conditions affecting the subject parcel or the surrounding
neighborhood which support the proposed amendment.
I. Whether the proposed amendment would be in conflict with the public interest and whether
it is in harmony with the purpose and intent of this Title.
26.310.050 Temporary suspension of building permits — Pending Ordinance.
A. Whenever the Planning and Zoning Commission adopts a resolution recommending to the
City Council an amendment to the text of this Title or the official zone district map, or the
City Council pursuant to Section 26.310.030(D) passes a proposed ordinance on first
reading, whichever shall occur first, the proposed ordinance shall be considered a pending
ordinance. Unless the Planning and Zoning Commission resolution or the proposed
ordinance passed by City Council on first reading states that the proposed ordinance shall
not be considered a pending ordinance, no building permit shall be issued by the Chief
Building Official which would be prohibited by the proposed amendment for a period of
six (6) months.
B. Following a recommendation by the Planning and Zoning Commission to the City Council
for an amendment to the text of this Title or the official zone district map, the City Council
may by motion or resolution declare that the proposed ordinance shall not be considered a
pending ordinance and any permit applied for which otherwise conforms to this Title shall
be issued by the Chief Building Official.
City of Aspen Land Use Code Page - 67 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations Section 26.310.070
26.310.06010iotation of Planning and Zoning Commission resolution on official zone district
map.
Within ten (10) days of when the Planning and Zoning Commission adopts a resolution
recommending approval of a development application for an amendment to the official zone district
map, the Community Development Director shall make a notation on the official zone district map to
show the pending amendment.
26.310.070 Recordation of designation.
Upon the effective date of an act by the City Council approving a development application for
an amendment to the official zone district map, the Community Development Director shall notify the
City Clerk of the designation, who shall record among the real estate records of the Clerk and
Recorder of Pitkin County, Colorado, a certified copy of the ordinance. The ordinance shall include a
legal description of the property whose zone district designation is changed by the amendment.
26.310.080 Placement on City's official zone district map.
Upon the effective date of an act by the City Council approving a development application for
an amendment to the official zone district map, the Community Development Director shall place the
amendment on the city's official zone district map, which is kept in the Community Development
Department.
26.310.090 Time limitations.
After a decision or recommendation denying a development application for an amendment to
the text of this Title or to the official zone district map, the City Council and the Planning and Zoning
Commission shall not consider:
A. A development application for the same amendment for a period of two (2) years from the
date of the action; or
B. A development application for amendment to the city's official zone district map or the text
of this Title that constitutes any other kind of amendment of any part of the same land for a
period of one year from the date of the action.
C. The time limitation of this subsection may be waived by the majority vote of the City
Council when such action is deemed necessary to prevent injustice or facilitate the proper
development of the City of Aspen.
City of Aspen Laid Use Code Page - 68 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.312.010
Sections:
26.312.010
26.312.020
26.312.030
26.312.040
26.312.050
26.312.060
Chapter 26.312
NONCONFORMITIES
Purpose.
Nonconforming uses.
Nonconforming structures.
Nonconforming accessory uses and accessory structures.
Nonconforming lots of record.
Lot reduction.
26.312.010 Purpose.
Within the zone districts established by this Title, there exist uses of land, buildings and
structures that were lawfully established before this Title was adopted or amended which would be in
violation of the terms and requirements of this Title. The purpose of this Chapter is to regulate and
limit the continued existence of those uses, buildings, and structures that do not conform to the
provisions of this Title as amended.
It is the intent of this Chapter to permit nonconformities to continue, but not to allow
nonconformities to be enlarged or expanded. The provisions of this Chapter are designed to curtail
substantial investment in nonconformities in order to preserve the integrity of the zone districts and
the other provisions of this Title but should not be construed as an abatement provision.
26.312.020 Nonconforming uses.
A. Authority to continue. Nonconforming uses of land or structures may continue in
accordance with the provisions of this Chapter and this section.
B. Normal maintenance. Normal maintenance may be performed upon non -conforming uses
of land and structures, provided that the maintenance performed within any twelve (12)
consecutive month period does not exceed ten percent (10%) of the current replacement
cost of the structure.
C. Extensions. Nonconforming uses shall not be extended. This prohibition shall be construed
so as to prevent:
1. Enlargement of nonconforming uses by additions to the area of the structure in which
such nonconforming uses are located; or
2. Occupancy of additional lands.
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Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.312.030
D. Relocation. A structure housing a nonconforming use may not be moved to another
location on or off the parcel of land on which it is located, unless the use thereafter shall
conform to the limitations of the zone district into which it is moved.
E. Change in use. A nonconforming use shall not be changed to any other use unless the new
use conforms to the provisions of the zone district in which it is located.
F. Abandonment or discontinuance. The intent of the owner notwithstanding, where a
nonconforming use of land or nonconforming use of structure is discontinued or abandoned
for twelve (12) consecutive months, then such use may not be reestablished or resumed,
and any subsequent use must conform to the provisions of this Title.
G. Demolition or destruction.
1. Ability to restore. Any nonconforming use which is purposefully demolished or
destroyed to the extent of less than seventy-five (75) percent of the floor area or exterior
wall area of the entire structure may be restored as of right if a building permit for
reconstruction is issued within twelve (12) months of the date of demolition. Any
nonconforming use which is purposefully demolished or destroyed to the extent of
seventy-five (75) percent or more of the floor area or exterior wall area of the entire
structure shall only be restored in conformance with the provisions of this Title.
2. Non -willful destruction. Any nonconforming use which is demolished or destroyed by
an act of nature or through any manner not purposefully accomplished by the owner
may be restored as of right, regardless of the extent of demolition or destruction, if a
building permit for reconstruction is issued within twelve (12) months of the date of
demolition or destruction.
26.312.030 Nonconforming structures.
A. Authority to continue. A nonconforming structure devoted to a use permitted in the zone
district in which it is located may be continued in accordance with the provisions of this
Chapter:
B. Normal maintenance. Normal maintenance to nonconforming structures may be
performed without affecting the authorization to continue as a nonconforming structure.
C. Extensions.
1. General. A nonconforming structure shall not be extended by
expansion that increases the nonconformity. A nonconforming
extended or altered in a manner that does not change or
nonconformity.
an enlargement or
structure may be
that decreases the
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Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.312.040
2. Historic landmark. The only exception to this requirement shall be for a structure
designated as an historic landmark. Such structures may be extended into front yard,
side yard and rear yard setbacks, may be extended into the minimum distance between
buildings on a lot and may be enlarged, provided, however, such enlargement does not
exceed the allowable floor area of the existing structure by more than five hundred (500)
square feet, complies with all other requirements of this Title, and receives development
review approval as required by Section 26.415.010(D)(1)(a).
D. Relocation. A nonconforming structure shall not be moved unless it thereafter conforms to
the standards and requirements of the zone district in which it is located.
E. Unsafe structure. Any portion of a nonconforming structure which becomes physically
unsafe or unlawful due to lack of repairs and maintenance, and which is declared unsafe or
unlawful by a duly authorized city official, but which an owner wishes to restore, repair or
rebuild shall only be restored, repaired or rebuilt in conformity with the provisions of this
Title.
F. Ability to Restore.
1. Non -purposeful destruction. Any non -conforming structure which is demolished or
destroyed by an act of nature, or through any manner not purposefully accomplished by the
owner, may be restored as of right if a building permit for reconstruction is issued within
twenty four (24) months of the date of demolition or destruction.
2. Purposeful destruction. Any non -conforming structure which is purposefully
demolished or destroyed may be replaced with a different structure only if the replacement
structure is in conformance with the current provisions of this Title, or unless replacement
of the non -conformity is approved pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 26.430, Special
Review. Any structure which is non -conforming in regards to the permitted density of the
underlying zone district may maintain that specific non -conformity only if a building
permit for the replacement structure is issued within twelve (12) months of the date of
demolition or destruction.
26.312.040 Nonconforming accessory uses and accessory structures.
No nonconforming accessory use or accessory structure shall continue after the principal
structure or use shall have terminated unless such structure or use thereafter shall conform to the
provisions of the zone district in which it is located.
City of Aspen Land Use Code Page - 71 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.312.040
26.312.050 Nonconforming lots of record.
A. General. A detached single-family dwelling and customary accessory buildings may be
developed on a lot of record if:
1. The lot of record is in separate ownership and not contiguous to lots in the same
ownership; and
2. The proposed single-family dwelling can be located on the lot so that the yard, height,
open space and floor area dimensional requirements of the zone district can be met, or a
variance is obtained from said dimensional requirements pursuant to Chapter 26.314.
B. Undivided lot. If two (2) or more lots or combinations of lots with continuous frontage in
single ownership (including husband and wife as in all cases a single owner) are of record
as of November 22, 1971, regardless of time of acquisition, and if all or parts of the lots do
not meet the requirements established for lot width and area, the lots shall be considered an
undivided parcel, and no portion shall be used or occupied which does meet the width and
area requirements of this Title.
C. Historic landmark. A lot of record containing an historic landmark need not meet the
minimum lot area requirement of its zone district to allow the uses that are permitted and
conditional uses in the district subject to the standards and procedures established in
Chapter 26.420.
26.312.060 Lot reduction.
A. No lot or interest therein shall be transferred, conveyed, sold or subdivided so as to create a
new nonconforming lot, to avoid, circumvent or subvert any provision of this Title, or to
leave remaining any lot in violation of the dimensional requirements of this Title.
B. No lot or portion of a lot required as a building site under this Title shall be used as a
portion of a lot required as a site for another structure.
C. No building permit shall be issued for any lot or parcel of land which has been conveyed,
sold, or subdivided in violation of this section.
City of Aspen Land Use Code Page - 72 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.314.010
Sections:
26.314.010
26.314.020
26.314.030
26.314.040
26.314.050
26.314.060
26.314.070
26.314.080
Chapter 26.314
VARIANCES
Purposes.
Authority.
Authorized variances.
Standards applicable to variances.
Procedure for variance approval.
Conditions.
Expiration.
Appeals.
26.314.010 Purposes.
Variances are deviations from the terms of this Title which would not be contrary to the public
interest when, owing to special circumstances or conditions, the literal enforcement of the provisions
of this Title would result in undue and unnecessary hardship. Variances shall only be granted in
accordance with the terms of this Chapter.
26.314.020 Authority.
The Board of Adjustment, in accordance with the procedures, standards and limitations of this
Chapter shall approve, approve with conditions, or disapprove a development application for
variances to the terms of this Title. If the application for a variance is part of a consolidated
application process authorized by the Community Development Director pursuant to Section
26.304.060(B)(1), the Planning and Zoning Commission, or the Historic Preservation Commission
may review the application for a variance using the standards and procedures set forth in this Chapter.
26.314.030 Authorized variances.
Variances may only be granted from the following requirements of this Title 26:
A. Dimensional requirements.
B. Permitted uses, but only to allow for the temporary off -site location or storage of
materials, structures or equipment pursuant to building construction or construction
staging.
City of Aspen Land Use Code Page - 73 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.314.040
26.314.040 Standards applicable to variances.
A. In order to authorize a variance from the dimensional requirements of Title 26, the
appropriate decision making body shall make a finding that the following three (3)
circumstances exist:
1. The grant of variance will be generally consistent with the purposes, goals, objectives,
and policies of the Aspen Area Community Plan and this Title;
2. The grant of variance is the minimum variance that will make possible the reasonable
use of the parcel, building or structure; and
3. Literal interpretation and enforcement of the terms and provisions of this Title would
deprive the applicant of rights commonly enjoyed by other parcels in -the same zone
district, and would cause the applicant unnecessary hardship or practical difficulty. In
determining whether an applicant's rights would be deprived, the board shall consider
whether either of the following conditions apply:
a. There are special conditions and circumstances which are unique to the parcel,
building or structure, which are not applicable to other parcels, structures or
buildings in the same zone district and which do not result from the actions of the
applicant; or
b. Granting the variance will not confer upon the applicant any special privilege denied
by the Aspen Area Community Plan and the terms of this Title to other parcels,
buildings, or structures, in the same zone district.
B. In order to authorize a variance from the permitted uses of Title 26, the appropriate
decision making body shall make a finding that all of the following circumstances exist:
1. Notice by mailing and posting of the proposed variance has been provided to
surrounding property owners in accordance with Section 26.304.060(E).
2. A variance is the only reasonable method by which to afford the applicant relief and to
deny a variance would cause the applicant unnecessary hardship or practical difficulty.
3. The temporary off -site storage or construction staging can be undertaken in such a
manner so as to minimize disruption, if any, of normal neighborhood activities
surrounding the subject parcel.
4. If ownership of the off -site parcel subject to the proposed variance is not vested in the
applicant, then verified written authorization of the parcel's owner must be provided.
5. Adequate provision is made to restore the subject parcel to its original condition upon
expiration of the variance, including the posting of such financial security as deemed
City of Aspen Land Use Code Page - 74 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.314.050
appropriate and necessary by the appropriate decision making body to insure such
restoration.
26.314.050 Procedure for variance approval.
A. Initiation. A development application for a variance may be initiated by over fifty (50)
percent of the owners of the real property for which the variance is proposed.
B. Determination of completeness and review by the planning director. A development
application for a variance shall be initiated by the submission of a development application
to the Community Development Director in a form established for such purposes. The
Community Development Director shall review the application and determine its
completeness and shall refer written comments to the appropriate decision making body.
C. Steps Required. One step is required to review an application for a variance: A public
hearing before the appropriate decision making body.
Notice requirements: Mailing and posting (See Section 26.304.060(E)).
D. Decision -making body action. At the conclusion of the public hearing, the appropriate
decision making body shall determine if the application meets the standards of this
Chapter, and shall issue a resolution to approve, approve with conditions, or disapprove the
application for a variance.
26.314.060 Conditions.
The Director of the Community Development Department may recommend and the
appropriate decision making body may impose, such conditions on variances as are necessary to
accomplish the goals, objectives and policies of the Aspen Area Community Plan and the terms of
this Title. All variances granted so as to permit the temporary off -site storage of materials, structures
or equipment pursuant to building construction or construction staging shall commence and terminate
on dates certain as established by the appropriate decision making body and shall not relieve an
applicant from obtaining all necessary building permits.
26.314.070 Expiration.
A. Expiration. Unless vested as part of a development plan pursuant to Section 26.308.010,
and except as otherwise established by the appropriate decision making body, a variance
granted under this Chapter shall automatically expire after twelve (12) months from the
date of approval unless development has been commenced as illustrated by the issuance of
a building permit.
B. Extension. The appropriate decision making body may grant a one time extension of a
variance for up to twelve (12) months. All requests for an extension must be submitted
prior to the expiration of the existing development order, must demonstrate good cause
City of Aspen Land Use Code Page - 75 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.316.010
showing that an extension is necessary, and must demonstrate that the circumstances as set
forth in this Chapter are still applicable.
26.314.080 Appeals.
An applicant may appeal an adverse determination by the Planning and Zoning Commission
or Historic Preservation Commission on an application for a variance that is consolidated with other
development applications to the Board of Adjustment. Such appeals shall follow the general appeal
procedures set forth in Chapter 26.316.
City of Aspen Land Use Code Page - 76 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.316.010
Sections:
Chapter 26.316
APPEALS
26.316.010
Purpose.
26.316.020
Authority.
26.316.030
Appeal procedures.
26.316.010 Purpose.
The purpose of this Chapter is to establish the authority of the Board of Adjustment, Growth
Management Commission, and City Council to hear and decide certain appeals and to set forth the
procedures for said appeals.
26.316.020 Authority.
A. Board of Adjustment. The Board of Adjustment shall have the authority to hear and decide
the following appeals:
1. Any decision or determination made by an administrative official unless otherwise
specifically stated in this Title.
2. The denial of a variance pursuant to Chapter 26.314 by the Planning and Zoning
Commission or Historic Preservation Commission.
B. City Council. The City Council shall have the authority to hear and decide the following
appeals:
1. An interpretation to the text of this Title or the boundaries of the zone district map by
the Community Development Director in accordance with Chapter 26.312.
2. Any action by the Historic Preservation Commission in approving, approving with
conditions, or disapproving a development application for development in an
Historic Overlay District pursuant to Chapter 26.415.
3. The scoring determination or allocations of the Growth Management Commission
pursuant to Chapter 26.470.
4. Any other appeal for which specific authority is not granted to another board or
commission as established by this Title.
City of Aspen Land Use Code Page - 77 Revised 01/01/99
Part 300 — General Procedures and Regulations
Section 26.316.030
C. Growth Management Commission. The Growth Management Commission shall have the
authority to hear and decide an appeal from an adverse determination by the Community
Development Director on an application for exemption pursuant to the growth management
quota system in accordance with Section 26.470.060(D).
26.316.030 Appeal Procedures.
A. Initiation. Any person with a right to appeal an adverse decision or determination shall
initiate an appeal by filing a notice of appeal on a form prescribed by the Community
Development Director. The notice of appeal shall be filed with the Community
Development Director and with the City office or department rendering the decision or
determination within fourteen (14) days of the date of the decision or determination being
appealed. Failure to file such notice of appeal within the prescribed time shall constitute a
waiver of any rights under this Title to appeal any decision or determination.
B. Effect of filing an appeal. The filing of a notice of appeal shall stay any proceedings in
furtherance of the action appealed from unless the Community Development Director
certifies in writing to the chairperson of the decision -making body authorized to hear the
appeal that a stay poses an imminent peril to life or property, in which case the appeal shall
not stay further proceedings. The chairperson of the decision making body with authority to
hear the appeal may review such certification and grant or deny a stay of the proceedings.
C. Timing of appeal. The decision -making body authorized to hear the appeal shall consider
the appeal within thirty (30) days of the date of filing the notice of appeal or as soon
thereafter as is practical under the circumstances.
D. Notice requirements. Notice of the appeal shall be provided by mailing to the appellant
and by publication to all other affected parties. (See, Section 26.304.060(E)).
E. Standard of review. Unless otherwise specifically stated in this title, the decision -making
body authorized to hear the appeal shall decide the appeal based solely upon the record
established by the body from which the appeal is taken. A decision or determination shall
be not be reversed or modified unless there is a finding that there was a denial of due
process, or the administrative body has exceeded its jurisdiction or abused its discretion.
F. Action by the decision -making body hearing the appeal. The decision -making body
authorized to hear the appeal shall follow the general hearing procedures set forth at
Section 26.304.060(C). The decision -making body hearing the appeal, may reverse, affirm,
or modify the decision or determination appealed from, and, if the decision is modified,
shall be deemed to have all the powers of the officer, board or commission from whom the
appeal is taken, including the power to impose reasonable conditions to be complied with
by the appellant. The decision shall be in writing.
City of Aspen Land Use Code Page - 78 Revised 01/01/99