HomeMy WebLinkAboutagenda.apz.20030701 AGENDA
ASPEN PLANNING & ZONING COMMISSION
REGULAR MEETING
TUESDAY, JULY 1, 2003
4:30 PM
SISTER CITIES ROOM
I. COMMENTS
A. Commissioners
B. Planning Staff
C. PuDIie
II. MINUTES
III. DECLARATION OF CONFLICTS OF INTERESTS
IV. PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION PUBLIC HEARINGS
A. MISCELLANEOUS LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS, Scott
Woodford, continued from 6/17
V. BOARD REPORTS
VI. ADJOURN
1 �
MEMORANDUM
TO: The Aspen Planning & Zoning Commission
THRU: Joyce Allgaier, Deputy Director of Community Development
FROM: Scott Woodford, City Planner
RE: LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS, PUBLIC HEARING; AMENDMENTS TO
THE OFFICIAL LAND USE CODE; RESOLUTION NO. 1 J5 , SERIES 2003
DATE: July 1, 2003
REQUEST SUMMARY'
The Community Development Department proposes amendments to Section 26 of the
City of Aspen Municipal Code (hereinafter call the "Land Use Code").
REVIEW PROCESS:
The Department requests approval of the following:
1) Amendments to the Land Use Code; According to Section 26.310.020, a public
hearing before Planning and Zoning Commission and City Council are required for
any proposed amendments to the Land Use Code. Final Review Authodly: Ci
Council
BACKGROUND/EXISTING CONDITIONS:
The following proposed code amendments are an accumulation of changes that staff has
been compiling over the last year. Most changes are relatively minor and are, simply,
clarifications or "clean up". of code language that staff, as well as Planning and Zoning
Commission and City Council, have found to be problematic in the past for one reason or
another. None of the proposed amendments .contemplate any major shift in policy.
PREVIOUS ACTIONS:
None.
STAFF COMMENTS:
AMENDMENTS TO THE LAND USE CODE; Staff finds that the proposed Amendments to
the Land Use Code comply with the applicable review criteria (see Exhibit A for Staff
Findings). The following is a list of the proposed code amendments, the issue
necessitating the amendment, and the proposed solution (also see the resolution for
proposed wording without strikeout and underline — the Section numbers below
correspond to the Section numbers in the resolution):
SECTION 1 - DEFINITIONS: Staff proposes adding definitions of antenna, monopole,
whip antennae, and panel antennae (as shown below), which are all terms used in the
Wireless Telecommunications section of the Code. Definitions of these terms would
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 1
assist in the review of wireless telecommunication proposals and help staff in better
interpreting the wireless telecommunication ordinance.
Antennae: Any structure, including but not limited to a monopole, tower, parabolic
and/or disk shaped device in single or multiple combinations of either solid or mesh
construction, intended for the purpose of receiving or transmitting communication
to or from another antenna, device or orbiting satellite, as well as supporting
equipment necessary to install or mount the antenna.
Monopole: A wireless communication facility which consists of a mono -polar
structure, erected to support wireless telecommunication antennas and connecting
appurtenances.
Antenna, Whip: A flexible rod antenna supported on a base insulator.
Antenna, Panel: A flat surface antenna used to achieve transmission or reception
from a specific direction. .
SECTION 2 — DESIGN REVIEW APPEAL COMMISSION: Staff proposes disbanding the
Design Review Appeal Commission (DRAC) as a separate board. According to the
Code, the DRAC is the board that is responsible for review of variances to Residential
Design Standards. The entire Section 26.222 reference to the DRAG is proposed to be
removed from the Code because most applicants seek variances to the Residential Design
Standards in conjunction with other land use approval requests and choose to consolidate
them in front of either the Historic Preservation Commission (HPC) or the Planning and
Zoning Commission (P&Z). Staff feels that this is a more efficient process and allows
the reviewing entity to evaluate the entire package of the development proposal. Because
of this, staff proposes that the responsibility for reviewing variances to the Residential
Design Standards be either HPC or P&Z, depending on which board is reviewing other
land use requests.. In the event that both boards are involved in the review, the applicant
may choose which board they prefer to hear their case.
SECTION 3 — COMMON DEVELOPMENT REVIEW PROCEDURES (RE -SUBMITTING
DENIED APPLICATIONS): Staff proposes language below that would restrict the ability of
an applicant to quickly resubmit an identical, or a very similar application, that has been
recently denied by the City because this practice often results in unnecessary duplication
of time and effort by the City staff, City Boards, and the public. According to the new
provision, an applicant would have to wait at least one year until resubmitting the same
project, however, it would also allow an applicant to resubmit an application earlier than
that if the Community Development Director (CDD) feels that the applicant has
adequately addressed the stated reasons for denial or if the project has been sufficiently
enough changed from the denied project that it may qualify as a new application.
(Section 26.304.060) F. Re -submittal of a previously denied application.
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 2
After a final decision that results in the denial of a development application by the
appropriate final approving body, an applicant wishing to re -submit the same plan for
approval:
1. May not submit the same development application, or one substantially the same,
as determined by the Community Development Director, for a period of one (1)
year from the date of the.most recent ruling of denial; or
2. May submit a revised application that adequately addresses all of the stated
reasons for denial. The Community Development Director shall determine
whether a.) a new submittal adequately addresses all of the stated reasons for
denial and can proceed with a submittal; or, b.) a new submittal is sufficientlX
enough altered from the project denied by City Council that it qualifies as a new
application for a different project. In either scenario, such application shall be
treated as a new application for purposes of review, scheduling and fees
SECTION 4 - COMMON DEVELOPMENT REVIEw PROCEDURES (SUBMITTING
MULTIPLE APPLICATIONS): Recently, there has been a growing trend of applicants
submitting more than one land use application for different projects for the same
property. The benefits to the applicant in this situation are that they have the ability to
process two different applications at one time, for one property and then, if both are
approved, be able to choose which one suits them better or - if one is ultimately denied -
have a backup plan in place. The problems this creates for the City and its staff and
boards, as well as for neighbors of the project, are the additional time and expense that it
creates in processing two applications., the attendance of meetings, and the confusion that
is created in trying to keep the two projects and their -issues separate. Because of these
problems, staff proposes language below that the City will not accept more than one
,development application on any one property at the same time. A provision of the new
regulation, however, is that if the Community Development Department Director feels
there is a public benefit for waiving this requirement, she may do so.
F. No Multiple Applications. The City of Aspen shall not accept or review more
than one development application on andproperty concurrently. To submit a new
application 'on a property, any active development application must be vacated Upon
determining there is a public purpose to be served, the Community Development Director
may waive this limitation.
SECTION 5 — AMENDMENTS TO THE OFFICIAL ZONE DISTRICT MAPS: A provision
is proposed to clarify that an ordinance establishing or changing a zone district is the final
authority in situations when there are disputes about the correct zoning of a property. For
example, if a property owner feels their property is zoned one way and the zoning map
indicates it is another zoning, then the official method to determine the correct zoning is
to consult the original ordinance. The proposed language follows:
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 3
26.310.085 Disputes about zoning of a property.
In cases where there is a dispute as to the correct zoning of a property, the
ordinance gpproving or establishing the zoning shall be the final authority and not the
official zone district map.
SECTION 6 — RESIDENTIAL DESIGN STANDARDS (REVISIONS TO THE REVIEW
CRITERIA): This Section will be changed to represent that the P&Z or HPC are the
appropriate bodies for review of variances to the Residential Design Standards and
removal of reference to the Design Review Appeal Commission, which would cease to
exist as a city board.
In addition, staff has proposed changing the review criteria for a variance to the
Residential Design Standards, which both staff and the P&Z have felt have been difficult
to administer in the past. The old review criteria is:
(1) yield greater compliance with the goals of the Aspen Area Community Plan, and
(2) more effectively address the issue or problem a given standard or provision
responds to, or be clearly necessary for reasons of fairness related to unusual site
specific constraints.
Instead of requiring that a variance prove that it is compliant with the Aspen Area
Community Plan (AACP) and that it more effectively addresses the issue or problem a
given standards responds to, as is the case now, staff has added new criteria as worded
below:
C. Variances. Variances from the Residential Design Standards, Section
26.410.040, may be granted by the Design Review Appeal Geffh-nittee as established
in Chapters-222 Planning and Zoning Commission, Board of Adjustment or the
Historic Preservation Commission if the-roject is subject to the requirements of
Section 26.415. An applicant who desires to consolidate other requisite land use
reviews by the Historic Preservation Commission, the Board of Adjustment or the
Planning and Zoning Commission may elect to have the variance application decided
by the board or commission reviewing the other land use application. In the event that
land use reviews are required by two different boards, the applicant may choose which
board they wish to conduct the review. An applicant who desires an exemption from
the Residential Design Standards shall demonstrate, and the deciding board shall find,
that the exception, if granted, would:
1. Provide a more appropriate pattern of development considering the context in
which the development is proposed and the purpose of the particular standard; or,
2. Be clearly necessary for reasons of fairness related to unusual site -specific
constraints.
SECTION 7 — RESIDENTIAL DESIGN STANDARDS (PARKING, GARAGES AND
CARPORTS ACCESSED FROM AN ALLEY OR PRIVATE ROAD): For some odd reason, the
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 4
word "waffle" is codified in this section when it should be the word "traffic". Staff
proposes changing it to reflect the true intention.
Second, staff has added the provision below allowing the use of double stall doors for
garages that are located off of an alley or private road, as long as they are designed to
appear like single stall doors (i.e. with a separating, differently shaded or textured
material in the center dividing the door into visually appearing separated stalls).
Currently, the Code requires single stall doors only for garages accessed in this manner.
The proposed code language:
PARKING, GARAGES AND CARPORTS. The intent of the following parking,
garages, and carport standards is to minimize the potential for conflicts between
pedestrian and. automobile wale traffic by placing parking, garages, and carports -on
alleys, or to minimize the presence of garages and carports as a lifeless part of the
streetscape where alleys do not exist.
1. For all residential
uses, parking, garages, and
carports shall be accessed
from an alley or private road
if one exists. The gara e doors
shall be single stall doors, or
double stall doors designed to
appear like single stall doors
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SECTION 8 — RESIDENTIAL DESIGN STANDARDS (PARKING, GARAGES AND
CARPORTS THAT DO NOT HAVE ACCESS FROM AN ALLEY) • A change is proposed that
will allow double stall garage doors for garages that are not visible from a public street
(see ' language below).. For garages that are accessed via a private driveway and not a
private road or alley, the Code requires that the garage doors be single stall only.
Recently, the city had a request by a homeowner in the Cemetery Lane area who wished
to have a double stall garage door for his garage that was accessed via a private driveway.
Since. it was clear that the garage was not visible from the street, a variance to this
Residential Design Standard was sought and approved by the P&Z.
Staff feels that it is appropriate to allow a double stall garage doors for garages that
are not visible from the public or private street. If a proposed garage is visible from any
street (public or private), then the requirement will still be that the garage doors are single
stall only.
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 5
f. The garage doors
shall be single stall doors.,
unless the garage doors are
not visible from any public
right-of-way or private street,
in which case the garage
doors may be double stall doors.
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SECTION 9 - RESIDENTIAL DESIGN STANDARDS (ONE-STORY ELEMENT): A
modification to this design standard is recommended in order to help better achieve the .
objective of the requirement, which is to help break up the mass of a structure. In
addition to proposing that the name be changed to "First -Story Element" to more
accurately describe the intent of the standard, staff proposes that the words "roof' in
porch roof and "architectural projection" be stricken from the standard as we believe that
those elements, by themselves, do not achieve the intent of the standard. Staff believes
that the intent of the standard is to have a one-story portion on the first floor of the
structure extend forward towards the street in order to help reduce the mass of a structure
and to address the street better.
Consider the recent proposal for the Modernist style house in the Top of Mill
Subdivision that initially requested a variance to this standard with a cantilevered, porch
roof. The applicant later widened the porch roof to technically meet the standard
(because the standard in the Code specifically stated that a porch roof could qualify as a
qualifying element), but did not, in staff s opinion achieve the intent of the standard.
To deter this possibility in the future, staff has re -written the standard so that it better
implies that the first story element be part of the building or a porch (which would require
a roof per the Code definition of porch) and not offer small porch roofs, or architectural
projections as an option to meet the standard. In addition, a minimum depth of 6' has
been added so that any first story element is sufficiently projected from the front fagade
and so we do not end up with something that is only a 6" projection from the front fagade
(as an example) and which would have no appreciable impact in reducing the building
mass.
Also, language has been added disallowing walk -out access on top of a first story
element (a recent project proposed to do this) because a railing would then be required,
which would begin to imply a second story and have the effect of creating more than just
a first floor, one-story effect.
2. First story element. All residential buildings shall have a first -story street -facing
element the width of which comprises at least twenty (20) percent of the building's
overall width and the .depth of which shall be at least six (6) feet. For example, a
first -story element may be a porch , or living space.
Accessible living space (whether it is a deck, porch, or enclosed area) over the first
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 6
story element shall not be allowed.
SECTION 10 — DEVELOPMENT OF HISTORIC LANDMARK SITE AND STRUCTURES
(FAR BONUS) The proposed additional language below is merely a clarification that an
FAR bonus may be awarded by the HPC to a project with merit in protecting a historic
resource, at time of Major Development or with a lot split review. Currently, the Code
does not state that it is allowed with a lot split review.
3. The decision to grant a Floor Area Bonus for Major Development projects will
occur as part of the approval of a Conceptual Development Plan, pursuant to Section
26.415.070(D). The Floor Area Bonus may be approved as part of a Historic
Landmark Lot Split review. No development application that includes a request for a
Floor Area Bonus may be submitted until after the applicant has met with the HPC in
a work session to discuss how the proposal might meet the bonus considerations.
SECTION 11 — DEVELOPMENT OF HISTORIC LANDMARK SITE AND STRUCTURES
APPEALS OF HPC DECISIONS) In cases when there is an appeal of an HPC decision, to
City Council, the current code provision requires that the Chair, Vice -Chair, or other
member of HPC is present at the appeal hearing. Staff has removed the provision
requiring their presence at the appeal hearing because the meeting is not a true public
hearing and they would not be able to speak even if they wished to, so it seems pointless
to require their presence (the Council reviews the existing record in these appeal cases).
Members of HPC may attend the meeting out of interest.
D. City Council. action on appeal or call up. The City Council shall consider the
application on the record established before the HPC. The City Council shall affirm. the
decision of the HPC unless there is a finding there was a denial of due process, or the
HPC has exceeded its jurisdiction or abused its discretion. The City Council shall take
such action as is deemed necessary to remedy said situation, including, but not limited
to:
l . Reversing the decision.
2. Altering the conditions of approval.
3. Remanding the application to the HPC for rehearing.
SECTION 12 — SPECIAL REvIEW: Staff proposes altering the rules related to the
allowed height of wireless telecommunication facilities and equipment because staff feels
that the current wording is confusing. The general philosophy behind the change, is that
there will be a set height limit for wireless antennae both if it is attached to a structure or
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 7
not, which would-be unchanged from what the Code currently allows. If it is on a
building, then an antennae may rise up 5' (for a panel antenna) or 10' higher (for a whip
antenna) than the highest portion of the roof. Both types of antenna may rise up higher
than those dimensions if the CDD feels that it is adequately screened. If the CDD feels
that it cannot be adequately screened, then the applicant must request approval for the
additional height through Special Review in front of the P&Z (Sections 13, 15, and 16
below also pertain to the above proposed change to height review).
In the applicability section of Special Review, there is a list of what can be reviewed
by Special Review. In this Section, staff has added a line that allows requests for
antennae higher than what the Code allows to be reviewed as a Special Review. The
Special Review section will also have criteria_ for the P&Z in reviewing those taller
structures (see Section 13).
26.430.030 Applicability.
Special review shall apply to all development in the City of Aspen designated for
special review by the following Chapters or Sections of this Title:
• Dimensional requirements (Chapter 26.710 - Zone Districts),
• Replacement of non -conforming structures (Chapter 26.312),
• Reduction of open space requirements in CC zone district (Section
575.030(B)),
• Off-street parking requirements (Section 26.515.040),
• Reductions in the dimensions of utility/trash service areas (Section
26.575.060)1
• Subdivision standards (Section 26.480.050),
• Accessory Dwelling Unit Design Standards (Section 26.520),
• Wireless Telecommunications facilities and/or equipment Section
26.575.130)
SECTION 13 — SPECIAL REVIEW:. Section 13 provides criteria ' to the P&Z for
reviewing requests for additional height for antennae over what the Code allows. The
criteria used for review is proposed to be the criteria that exists in the Wireless
Telecommunications section of the Code found in Section 26.575.130 (F) and which
includes criteria such as setbacks, architectural compatibility, compatibility with the
natural environment, screening, and lighting and signage. Staff believes that this criteria
is sufficient to allow the proper analysis by P&Z of whether taller antennae than allowed
is compatible and screened well enough.
Wireless Telecommunications facilities andlor equipment. Whenever a special
review is conducted to appeal the decision of the Community Development
Director regarding_proposed wireless telecommunications service facility or
equipment or to determine a proposed increase in the allowed height of a wireless
telecommunications facility and/or equipment, it shall be considered in
accordance with the standards set forth in Section 26.575.130(C)(6) (Wireless
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 8
Telecommunication services facilities and equipment)
SECTION 14 — STREAM MARGIN REVIEW: In a previous code amendment, a
sentence in the Stream Margin Review section was printed twice. This amendment
strikes one of those sentences.
C. Stream Margin Review Standards. No development shall be permitted within the
Stream Margin of the Roaring Fork River unless the Community Development
Director makes a determination that the proposed development complies with all
requirements set forth below: No development shall b 'tt ,a the Stfeafn
v � viV V111 V111. J11tA.11 l/V UV1111166<JC.1 within
SECTION 15 — WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS: This section adds language to the
Code requiring Special Review as the . proper method to request a variance from the
review standards for height of wireless telecommunications facilities. Previously, it was
done by a conditional use. All such requests will be reviewed by P&Z, unless the project
is located on an historic property or in a historic district, in which case HPC would
review the request.
C. Procedure.
1. General
Pursuant to Section 26.304.020, the applicant shall conduct a pre -application
conference with staff of the Community Development Department. The planner shall
then prepare a pre -application summary describing the submission requirements and
any other pertinent land use material, the fees associated with the review(s), and the
review process in general.
2. Administrative Review.
After the pre -application summary is received by the applicant, said applicant
shall prepare an application for review and approval by staff and the Community
Development Director, respectively.. In order to proceed with additional land use
reviews or obtain a Development Order, the Community Development Director shall
find the submitted development application consistent with the provisions,
requirements and standards of this Chapter.
3. Appeal of Director's Determination.
The Community Development Director may apply reasonable conditions to the
approval as deemed necessary to insure conformance with applicable review criteria
in Section 26.575.130 (F.). If the Community Development Director determines that
the proposed wireless telecommunication services facilities and equipment does not
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 9
comply with the review criteria and denies the application, or the applicant does not
agree to the conditions of approval determined by the Community Development
Director, the applicant may apply for eandifienal use Special Review (Section
26.430) review by the Planning and Zoning Commission or, if applicable, by the
City's Historic Preservation Commission and such application must be made within
fifteen (15) calendar days of the day on which the Community Development
Director's decision is rendered. All appeals shall require public hearings, and shall be
noticed b the he applicant in accordance with Section 26.304.060(E)(3 (a), (b), and (c)
of the Municipal Code.
4. Historic Preservation Commission Review.
Proposals for the location of wireless telecommunication services facilities or
equipment on any historic site or structure, or within any historic district shall be
reviewed by the City's Historic Preservation Commission (HPC). Review of
applications for wireless telecommunication services facilities and/or equipment by
the HPC shall replace the need for review by the Community Development Director.
Likewise, if the Historic Preservation Commission determines that the proposed
wireless telecommunication services facilities and equipment does not comply with
the review criteria and denies the application, or the applicant does not agree to the
conditions of approval determined by the Historic Preservation Commission, the
applicant may appeal the decision to the City Council and such appeal must be filed
within fifteen (15) calendar days of the day on which the Historic Preservation
Commission's decision is rendered. All appeals shall require public hearings, and
shall be noticed by the applicant in accordance with Section 26.304.060(E)(3)(a), (b),
and (c) of the Municipal Code.
5. Building Permit
A building permit application cannot be filed unless and until final land use
approval has been granted and a Development Order has been issued. When applying
for building permit(s), the applicant shall submit a signed letter acknowledging
receipt of the decision granting land use approval and his/her agreement with all
conditions of approval, as well as a copy of the signed document granting the land use
approval for the subject building permit application.
6. Special Review.
An application requesting a variance from the review standards for height of
wireless telecommunications service facilities and/or equipment, or an appeal of a
determination made by the Community Development Director, shall be processed as a
Special Review in accordance with the Common Development Review Procedure set
forth in Section 26.304. The Special Review shall be considered at a public hearing
for which notice has been posted and mailed, pursuant to Section 26.304.060(E)(3)(b
and c).
Review is by the Planning and Zoning Commission. If the property is a Historic
Landmark, on the Inventory of Historic Sites and Structures, or within a Historic
Overlay District, and the application has been authorized for consolidation pursuant to
Section 26.304, the Historic Preservation Commission shall consider the Special
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 10
Review.
Such Special Review may be approved, approved with conditions, or denied based on
conformance with the following criteria:
l . Conformance with the applicable Review Standards of Section 26.575.130(D.
2. If the facility or equipment is located on property listed on the Aspen Inventory of
Historic Landmark Sites and Structures or within any historic district, then the
Applicable standards of Chapter 26.415 (Development Involving the Inven'toryof
Historic Sites and Structures or, which occurs in an "H" Historic Overlay District)
shall apply.
SECTION 16 — WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS: This Section details the specific
height requirements for wireless telecommunications equipment and walks you through
the process for requesting a taller height .(see Section 12 for general philosophy of the
change).
2. Height.
The
following restrictions shall ap 1plyy:
a
f}i iiiding i ee theanterma ecnd—suppert system fe panel &Rtenfia shall net
i
WaRsi
i
walls. Wireless telecommunication services facilities and/or equipment not
attached to a building shall not exceed thirty-five 3 5) feet in height or the
maximum permissible height of the given zone district, whichever is more
restrictive.
b.
* If the building itself exeeeds the height lifnitafiens of the zene, and sueb.
exeess height was legally established • •> >
. Whenever
a wireless telecommunication services antenna is attached to a building roofs
the antenna and' support system for panel antennas shall not exceed five (5)
feet above the highest portion of that roof, including parapet walls, and the
antenna and support system for whip antennas shall not exceed ten (10feet
above the highest portion of that roof, including_ parapet walls
c.
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 11
ease aft administ- The Community
Development Director may approve of a taller antenna height than stipulated
above in b.) if it is their determination that it is suitably camouflaged, in
which case an administrative approval may be rg_anted.
d. ,
. If the Community Development Director
determines that an antenna taller than stipulated above in (b.) cannot be
suitably camouflaged, then the additional height of the antenna shall be
reviewed pursuant to the process and standards (in addition to the standards
of this Section) of Section 26.430 (Special Review).
e. Support and/or switching equipment shall be located inside the building,
unless it can be fuller screened from view as provided in the "Screening"
standards (26.475.130 26.575.130 (F) 5)) below.
SECTION 17 — OUTDOOR LIGHTING (NON-RESIDENTIAL): Staff has discovered that
there are contradictory sections of the lighting ordinance. In both the Residential and
Non -Residential section (E and F of Section .26.575.150) of the ordinance, it states that
lighting shall be 12' in height or less, unless it meets one of a set of criteria, which
includes being fully shielded, non-adjustable, lighting for parking purposes, and lighting
for building mounted signage or for the fagade (among others). Then, in Section K
(Review Standards) of the same section, it states that outdoor residential and commercial
lighting may be 12' in height or more, but only if it is approved by the P&Z through
Special Review.
To correct this, staff proposes changing both Section E and F, so that lighting still
must be 12' in height or less, but if it is located on above grade decks or balconies and is
fully shielded or built into a roof soffit and fully shielded, then it may be allowed without
Special Review approval. The thinking here is that if the lighting is fully shielded that it
should be allowed on areas of a building higher than 12' because the impact should not be
any greater than if it is 12' in height or lower.
Special Review approval will continue to be required for commercial parking and
vehicle circulation areas with lighting up to 20' and residential and commercial lighting
with heights higher than 12' that may be necessary due to safety requirements, building
design, or extenuating circumstances (See Section 21 for specific section of the Code
relating to what is allowed with Special Review approval).
E. Non -Residential Lighting Standards. The following lighting standards shall be
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 12
applicable to all non-residential properties including mixed uses:
(a) Outdoor lighting used to illuminate parking spaces, driveways, maneuvering
areas, or buildings shall. conform to the definition for "fully. shielded light
fixtures" and. be designed, arranged and screened so that the point light source
shall not be visible from adjoining lots or streets. No portion of the bulb or
direct lamp image may be visible beyond a distance equal to or greater than
twice the mounting height of the fixture. For example, for a fixture with a
mounting height of twelve (12) feet, no portion of the bulb or direct lamp
image may be visible from twenty-four (24) feet away in any direction. The
light level shall not exceed 10 foot-candles as measured three feet above
finished grade. Exemptions may be requested for areas with high commercial,
pedestrian, or vehicular activity up to a maximum of 20 foot-candles.
(b) Outdoor lighting shall be 12 ft. or less in height unless the lighting is either
located on above- trade decks or balconies and is fully shielded; built into a
roof soffit and fully shielded; or is otherwise approved in Section 27.575.150
LK)•
Him
(c) All light sources which are not fully shielded shall use other than a clear lens
material as the primary lens material to enclose the light bulb so as to
minimize glare from that point light source. Exceptions may be allowed
where there is a demonstrated benefit for the community determined through
the exemption process listed in this section.
(d) High Intensity Discharge (HID) light sources are allowed with a maximum
wattage of 175 high pressure sodium (HPS) and 175 watt metal halide (coated
lamp — 3,000 degrees Kelvin). Standards for other HID light sources may be
established by the City for new technology consistent with the above
restrictions.
(e) Spacing for security and parking lot light fixtures that are pole mounted shall
be no less than 75 ft. apart. Decorative fixtures (which are also fully shielded)
are allowed to maintain a 50 ft. fixture spacing. Wall mounted fixture spacing
for security lighting shall be no less than 50 ft. measured horizontally.
Decorative fixtures directed back toward a building face shall be exempt from
this spacing requirement when shielded and shall not exceed 50 watts.
Decorative fixtures that are not shielded shall maintain a minimum spacing of
25 ft. and shall not exceed 50 watts. Where security lighting is a combination
of pole and wall mounted fixtures, minimum spacing shall be 75 ft. and a
maximum of 150 ft.
Pole mounted fixtures shall be limited to two light sources per pole.
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 13
(g) Mixed use areas that include residential occupancies shall comply with the
residential standards on those floors or areas that are more than 50%
residential based on square footage of uses.
(h) Up -lighting is only permitted if the light distribution from the fixture is
effectively contained by an overhanging architectural or landscaping element.
Such elements may include awnings, dense shrubs, or year-round tree
canopies, which can functionally contain or limit illumination of the sky. In
these cases the fixture spacing is limited to one fixture per 150 sq. ft. of area
(as measured in a horizontal plane) and a total lamp wattage within a fixture of
3 5 watts.
(i) Up -lighting of flags is permitted with a limit of two fixtures per flag pole with
a maximum of 150 watts each. The fixtures must be shielded such that the
point source is not visible outside of a 15-ft. radius.
(j) Outdoor vending, such as gas stations, require approval for lighting. Lighting
shall not exceed a maximum of 20 candles under the canopy.
SECTION 18 — OUTDOOR LIGHTING (RESIDENTIAL): This section proposes the same
change as above, only to the Residential portion of the lighting ordinance. Additionally,
staff has added changed section (c.) below so that if a light is not fully shielded then it
must be enclosed with a material other than a clear material and that the light source may
not be visible from an adjacent property. Currently, the provision allows unshielded
lights as long as they "minimize" the glare as opposed to the above proposal of not
allowing any light to be visible.
F. Residential Lighting Standards. The following lighting standards shall be
applicable to residential properties:
(a.) Outdoor lighting shall be 12 ft. or less in height unless the lighting is located
on above grade decks or balconies and is fully shielded, built into a roof soffit
and fully shielded, or is otherwise, approved in Section 27.575.150 (K):
WeRLAW1. kV
(b.) .Outdoor lighting with HID light sources in excess of 35 watts (bulb or lamp)
shall be prohibited. In addition, incandescent light sources including
halogen shall not exceed 50 watts.
c.) All light sources that are not fully shielded shall use material other than a
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 14
clear lens material. to enclose the light source, as the pfimafy lens m4efial,
. The point
light source shall not be visible from adjacent properties.
(d.) Landscape lighting is limited to 35 watts per fixture per 150 sq. ft. of
landscaped area (as measured in a horizontal plane).
(e.) Security lights shall be restricted as follows:
1. The point light source shall not be visible from adjoining lots or streets.
2. Flood lights must be controlled by a switch or preferably a motion sensor
activated only by motion within owners property.
3. Timer controlled flood lights shall be prohibited.
4. Photo -cell lights shall be allowed under the following circumstances:.
a) At primary points of entrance (e.g. front entries) or in critical common,
areas for commercial and multi -family properties;
b) Where the light sources are fully -shielded by opaque material (i.e. the
fixture -illuminates the area but is not itself visibly bright); and
c) The light source or fluorescent (or compact fluorescent) to eliminate
excess electricity consumption.
5. Lights must be fully shielded, down directed and screened from adjacent
properties in a manner that limits light trespass to .1 of a foot candle as.
measured at the property line.
6. Light intensity shall not exceed 10 foot-candles measured 3 ft. above
finished grade.
7. No light fixture shall be greater than 12 feet in height. Exceptions are:
a) Tree mounted fully shielded, downward directed lights using a light of
25 watts or less, and
b) Building mounted flood lights fully shielded, downward directed lights
using a light of 50 watts or less.
(f.) Motion sensor lights may be permitted, but only where the sensor is triggered
by motion within the owner's property lines.
(g.) Light trespass at property lines should not exceed .1 of a foot-candle as
measured at the brightest point.
SECTION 19 — OUTDOOR LIGHTING: Staff proposes removing the reference to Street
Lighting Standards in Section 26.575.150 (G) because it is already covered in Section (H)
of the lighting ordinance under Municipal Lighting (see below).
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 15
G. Reserved.
SECTION 20 — OUTDOOR LIGHTING: Municipal lighting is currently in the Code as
an Exemption, meaning that such lighting is not subject to the requirements of the
lighting ordinance. Staff believes that municipal lighting, such as traffic control devices,
street lights, and construction lights should be exempt from meeting the ordinance
because of the difficulties of meeting the ordinance and still providing their necessary life
and safety functions. It should be noted, however, that this action will not preclude City
projects from meeting the lighting ordinance (City affordable housing, for example)
unless Council found it to be necessary for pubic health, safety or welfare.
2.. Municipal Lighting. Municipal lighting installed for the benefit of public health,
safety, and welfare, including but not limited to traffic control devices, exng
streetlights, and construction lighting. ,
SECTION 21 — OUTDOOR LIGHTING: In accordance with Section 17 above, staff
proposes removing (K) (c) from Section 26.575.150 of the Code. This refers to lighting
on above -grade decks or balconies that is higher than 12' and which currently requires
Special Review approval by P&Z. As stated in Section 17, staff feels that, as long as its
fully shielded, such lighting should be able to be as high on the structure as necessary.
K. Review Standards.
1. Height. Outdoor residential and commercial lighting shall be twelve (12)
feet or less above grade in height. Special review by the Planning and
Zoning Commission may allow lighting of a greater height under the
following circumstances:
a. A fixture at a greater height is required due to safety, building design,
or extenuating circumstances in which case the light shall be fully
shielded with a non adjustable mounting; or
b. Lighting for commercial parking and vehicle circulation areas may
have a maximum height of 20 feet above grade and shall be fully
shielded
c. Lighting en above gfade deeks of ,Y.Iieh shall be f6ily
shielded.
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 16
STAFF SUMMARY AND RECOMMENDATION:
Staff recommends approval of the amendments to the Land Use Code as put forth in the
attached resolution and described above.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
"I move to approve Resolution No. I , Series of 2003, for Amendments to the Land Use
Code."
ATTACHMENTS'
Exhibit A: Amendments to the Land Use Code — Staff Findings
LAND USE CODE AMENDMENTS STAFF REPORT PAGE 17
RESOLUTION NO. I S,
(SERIES OF 2003)
A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF ASPEN PLANNING AND ZONING COMMISSION
RECOMMENDING CITY COUNCIL APPROVE AMENDMENTS TO THE FOLLOWING
CHAPTERS AND SECTIONS OF THE CITY OF ASPEN MUNICIPAL CODE: 26.104.100 —
DEFINITIONS; 26.222 — DESIGN REVIEW APPEAL COMMISSION; 26.304 — COMMON
DEVELOPMENT REVIEW PROCEDURES; 26.310 — AMENDMENTS TO THE LAND USE
CODE AND OFFICIAL ZONE DISTRICT MAP; 26.410 — RESIDENTIAL DESIGN
STANDARDS; 26.415 — DEVELOPMENT INVOLVING THE APPEN INVENTORY OF
HISTORIC LANDMARK SITES AND STRUCTURES OR DEVELOPMENT IN AN "H",
HISTORIC OVERLAY DISTRICT; 26.430.030 — SPECIAL REVIEW; 26.435.040 - STREAM
MARGIN REVIEW; 26.575.150 — OUTDOOR LIGHTING; 26.575.130 — WIRELESS
TELECOMMUNICATION SERVICES FACILITIES AND EQUIPMENT.
WHEREAS, the Community Development Department proposed an application for an
amendment to Title 26 of the City of Aspen Municipal Code; and,
WHEREAS, pursuant to Section 26.310 of the Aspen Municipal Code, applications to amend
the text of Title 26 shall be reviewed and recommended for approval, approval with conditions, or
denial by the Community Development Department and then by the Planning and Zoning
Commission at a public hearing. Final action shall be by the City Council after reviewing and
considering these recommendations; and,
. WHEREAS, during a duly noticed public hearing on July 1, 2003, the Planning and Zoning
Commission heard the recommendation of the Community Development Director, took public
comment and approved these amendments to the Aspen Land Use Code, by a to-�
vote; and,
WHEREAS, The Planning and Zoning Commission finds that the amendments meet or
exceed all applicable development review standards and that the approval for the amendment is
consistent with the goals and elements of the Aspen Area Community Plan; and,
WHEREAS, the Planning and Zoning Commission finds that this Resolution furthers and is
necessary for the promotion of public health, safety, and welfare.
NOW, THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED BY THE PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION OF THE CITY OF ASPEN, COLORADO ON THE 15` DAY OF DULY 2003,
THAT:
Section 1:
'Section 26.104.100, Definitions, which section describes the meaning of terms used in the Land Use
Code, shall add the following terms and definitions:
PAGE 18
Antennae: Any structure, including but not limited to a monopole, tower, parabolic and/or disk
shaped device in single or multiple combinations of either solid or mesh construction, intended
for the purpose of receiving or transmitting communication to or from another antenna, device
or orbiting satellite, as well as supporting equipment necessary to install or mount the antenna.
Monopole: A wireless communication facility which consists of a monopolar structure,
erected to support wireless telecommunication antennas and connecting appurtenances.
Whip antenna: A flexible rod antenna supported on a base insulator.
Panel antenna: A flat surface antenna used to achieve transmission or reception from a specific
direction.
Section 2:
That the entire Section 26.222 shall be removed.
Section 3•
Add Section 26.304.060 (F), as follows:
F. Re -submittal of a previously denied application.
After a final decision that results in the denial of a development application by the appropriate
final approving body, an applicant wishing to re -submit the same plan for approval:
2. May not submit the same development application, or one substantially the same, as
determined by the Community Development Director, for a period of one (1) year from the
date of the most recent ruling of denial; or
3. May submit'a revised application that adequately addresses all of the stated reasons for denial.
The Community Development Director shall determine. whether a.) a new submittal
adequately addresses all of the stated reasons for denial and can proceed with a submittal; or,
b.) a new submittal is sufficiently enough altered from the project denied by City Council that
it qualifies as a new application for a different project. In either scenario, such application
shall be treated as a new application for purposes of review, scheduling, and fees.
Section 4:
That Section 3.04.040.030 (F) shall be amended as follows:
F. No Multiple Applications. The City of Aspen shall not accept or review more than one
development application, on any one property concurrently. To submit a new application on a
property, any active development application must be vacated. Upon determining there is a
public purpose to be served, the Community Development Director may waive this limitation.
Section 5:
That Section 26.310.085 (Amendments to the Official Zone District Maps) shall -be added as follows:
26.310.085 Disputes about zoning of a property.
PAGE 19
In cases where there is a dispute as to the correct zoning of a property, the ordinance
approving or establishing the zoning shall be the final .authority and not the official zone district
map.
Section 6:
That Section 26.410.020 (D) shall be amended as follows:
. D. Variances. Variances from the Residential Design Standards, Section 26.410.040, may be
granted by the Planning and Zoning Commission, Board of Adjustment or the Historic
Preservation Commission, if the project is subject to the requirements of Section 26.415. An
applicant who desires to consolidate other requisite land use reviews by the Historic Preservation
Commission, the Board of Adjustment or the Planning and Zoning Commission may elect to have
the variance application decided by the board or commission reviewing the other land use
application. An applicant who desires an exemption from the Residential Design Standards shall
demonstrate, and the deciding board shall find, that the exception, if granted, would:
1. Provide a more appropriate pattern of development considering the context in . which the
development is proposed and the purpose of the particular standard; or,
2. Be clearly necessary for reasons of fairness related to unusual site -specific constraints.
Section 7:
That Section 26.410.040 (C) (1) shall be amended as follows:
C. PARKING, GARAGES AND CARPORTS. The intent of the following parking, garages,
and carport standards is to minimize the potential for conflicts between pedestrian and
automobile traffic by placing parking, garages, and carports on alleys, or to minimize the
presence of garages and carports as a lifeless part of the streetscape where alleys do not exist.
1. For all residential
uses, parking, garages, and
carports shall be accessed
from an alley, or private road
if one exists. The garage doors
shall be single stall doors, or
double stall doors designed to
appear like single stall doors.
IIIIIIIIIilliilllip l
BMW
1 1
Section 8•
That Section 26.410.040 (C) (2) (f.) shall be amended as follows:
f. The garage doors
shall be single stall doors=
unless the garage doors are
not visible from any public right-
of-way or private street, in which
case the garage doors may be
PAGE 20
double stall doors.
Section 9
That Section 26.410.040 (D) (2) shall be amended as follows:
2. First story element. All residential buildings shall have a first -story street -facing element the
width of which comprises at least twenty (20) percent of the building's overall width and the
depth of which shall be at least six (6) feet. For example, a first -story element may be a porch or
living space. Accessible living space (whether it is a deck, porch, or enclosed area) over the first
story element shall not be allowed.
Section 10:
That Section 26.415.110 (E.) (3) (Development of Historic Landmark Site and Structures) shall be
amended as follows:
3. The decision to grant a Floor Area Bonus for Major Development projects will occur as part of
the approval of a Conceptual Development Plan, pursuant to Section 26.415.070(D). The Floor
Area Bonus may also be approved as part of a Historic Landmark Lot Split review. No
development application that includes a request for a Floor Area Bonus may be submitted until
after the applicant has met with the HPC in a work session to discuss how the proposal might
meet the bonus considerations.
Section 11:
That Section 26.415.120 (D) (Development of Historic Landmark Site and Structures) shall be amended
as follows:
D. City Council action on appeal or call up: The City Council shall consider the application on the
record established before the HPC. The City Council shall affirm the decision of the HPC unless
there is a finding there was a denial of due process, or the HPC has exceeded its jurisdiction, or
abused its discretion. The City Council shall take such action as is deemed necessary to remedy said
situation, including, but not limited to:
1. Reversing the decision.
2. Altering the conditions of approval.
3. Remanding the application to the HPC for rehearing.
Section 12:
That Section 26.430.030 Applicability (Special Review) shall be amended as follows:
26.430.030 Applicability.
Special review shall apply to all development in the City of Aspen designated for special.
review by the following Chapters or Sections of this Title:
• Dimensional requirements (Chapter 26.710 - Zone Districts),
• Replacement of non -conforming structures (Chapter 26.312),
PAGE 21
• Reduction of open space requirements in CC zone district (Section 575.030(B)),
• Off-street parking requirements (Section 26.515.040),
• Reductions in the dimensions of utility/trash service areas (Section 26.575.060),
• Subdivision standards (Section 26.480.050),
• Accessory Dwelling Unit Design Standards (Section 26.520),
• Wireless Telecommunications facilities and/or equipment (Section 26.575.130)
Section 13:
That Section 26.430.040 Review Standards for Special Review shall be amended as follows:
I. Wireless Telecommunications facilities and/or equipment. Whenever a special review is
conducted to appeal the decision of the Community Development Director regarding a
proposed wireless telecommunications service facility or equipment or to determine a
proposed increase in the allowed height of a wireless telecommunications facility and/or
equipment, it shall be considered in accordance with the standards set forth in Section
26.575.130(C)(6) (Wireless Telecommunication services facilities and equipment)
Section 14:
That Section 26.435.040 (C) shall be amended as follows:
C. Stream Margin Review Standards. No development shall be permitted within the Stream
Margin of the Roaring Fork River unless the Community Development Director makes a
determination that the proposed development complies with all requirements set forth below:
Section 15:
That Section 26.575.130 (C) Procedure (Wireless Telecommunications) shall be amended as follows:
C. Procedure.
1. General
Pursuant to Section 26.304.020, the applicant shall conduct a pre -application conference with
staff of the Community Development Department. The planner shall then prepare a pre -
application summary describing the submission requirements and any other pertinent land use
material, the fees associated with the review(s), and the review process in general.
2. Administrative Review.
After the pre -application summary is received by the applicant, said applicant shall prepare an
application for review and approval by staff and the Community Development Director,
respectively. In order to proceed with additional land use reviews or obtain a Development
Order, the Community Development Director shall find the submitted development application
consistent with the provisions, requirements and standards of this Chapter.
3. Appeal of Director's Determination.
The Community Development _Director may apply reasonable conditions to the approval as
deemed necessary to insure conformance with applicable review criteria in Section 26.575.130
(F.). If the Community Development Director determines that the proposed wireless
telecommunication services facilities and equipment does not comply with the review criteria and
PAGE 22
denies the application, or the applicant does not agree to.the conditions of approval determined
by the Community Development Director, the applicant may apply for Special Review (Section
26.430 by the Planning and Zoning Commission or, if applicable, .by the - City's Historic
Preservation Commission and such application must be made within fifteen (15) calendar days of
the day on which the Community Development Director's decision is rendered. All appeals shall
require public hearings, and shall be noticed by the applicant in accordance with Section
26304.060(E)(3)(a), (b), and (c) of the Municipal Code.
4. Historic Preservation Commission Review.
Proposals for the location of wireless telecommunication services facilities or equipment on
any historic site or structure, or within any historic district shall be reviewed by the City's
Historic Preservation Commission (HPC). Review of applications for wireless
telecommunication services facilities and/or equipment by the HPC shall replace the need for
review by the Community Development Director. Likewise, if the Historic Preservation
Commission determines that the proposed wireless telecommunication services facilities and
equipment does not comply with the review. criteria and denies the application, or the applicant
does not agree to the conditions, of approval determined by the Historic Preservation Commission,
the applicant may appeal the decision to the City Council and such appeal must be filed within
fifteen (15) calendar days of the day on which the Historic Preservation Commission's decision is
rendered. All appeals shall require public hearings, and shall be noticed by the applicant in
accordance with Section 26.304.060(E)(3)(a), (b), and (c) of the Municipal Code.
5. Building- Permit
A building permit application cannot be filed unless and until final land use approval has been
granted and a Development Order has been issued. When applying for building permit(s), the
applicant shall submit a signed letter acknowledging receipt of the decision granting land use
approval and his/her agreement with all conditions of approval, as well as a Icopy of the signed
document granting the land use approval for the subject building permit application.
6. Special Review.
An application requesting a variance . from the review standards for height of wireless
telecommunications service facilities and/or equipment, or an appeal of a determination made by
the Community Development Director, shall be processed as a Special Review in accordance with
the Common Development Review. Procedure set forth in Section 26.304. The Special Review
shall be considered at a public hearing for which notice has been posted and mailed, pursuant to
Section 26.304.060(E)(3)(b and c).
Review is by the Planning and Zoning Commission. If the property is a Historic Landmark; on
the Inventory of Historic Sites and Structures, or within a Historic Overlay District, and the
application has been authorized for consolidation pursuant to Section 26.304, the Historic
Preservation Commission shall consider the Special Review.
Such Special Review may be approved, approved with conditions, or denied based on
confonnance with the following criteria:
1. Conformance with the applicable Review Standards of Section 26.575.130(F).
PAGE 23
2. If the facility or equipment is located on property listed on the Aspen Inventory of Historic
Landmark Sites and Structures or within any historic district, then the applicable standards of
Chapter 26.415 (Development Involving the Inventory of Historic Sites and Structures or which
occurs in an "H" Historic Overlay District) shall apply.
SPrtinn 16--
That Section 26.575.130 (F) (2) Review Standards (Wireless Telecommunications - Height) shall be
amended as follows:
2. Height. The following restrictions shall apply:
a. Wireless telecommunication services facilities and/or equipment not attached to a
building shall not exceed thirty-five (35) feet in height or the maximum permissible
height of the given zone district, whichever is more restrictive.
b. Whenever a wireless telecommunication services antenna is attached to a building
roof, the antenna and support system for panel antennas shall not exceed five (5) feet
above the highest portion of that roof, including parapet walls, and the antenna and
support system for whip antennas shall not exceed ten (10) feet above the highest portion
of that roof, including parapet walls.
c. The Community Development Director may approve of a taller antenna height than
stipulated above in (b.) if it is their determination that it is suitably camouflaged, in which
case an administrative approval may be granted.
d. If the Community Development Director determines that an antenna taller than
stipulated above in .(b.) cannot be suitably camouflaged, then the additional height of the
antenna shall be reviewed pursuant to the process and standards (in addition to the
standards of this Section) of Section 26.430 (Special Review).
e. Support and/or switching equipment shall be located inside the building, unless it can
be fully screened from view as provided in the "Screening" standards (26.475.130
26.575.130 (F)(5)) below.
PAGE 24
Section 17:
Section 26.575.150 (E) Non -Residential Lighting (Outdoor Lighting), shall be amended as
follows:
E. Non -Residential Lighting Standards. The following lighting standards shall be
applicable to all non-residential properties including mixed uses:
(a) Outdoor lighting used to illuminate parking spaces, driveways, maneuvering
areas, or buildings. shall conform to the definition for "fully shielded light
fixtures" and be designed, arranged and screened so that the point light source
shall not be visible from adjoining lots or streets. No portion of the bulb or
direct. lamp image may be visible beyond a distance equal to or greater than
twice the mounting height of the fixture. For example, for a fixture with a
mounting height of twelve (12) feet, no portion of the bulb or direct lamp
image may be visible from twenty-four (24) feet away in any direction. The
light level shall not exceed 10 foot-candles as measured three feet above
finished grade. Exemptions may be requested for areas with high commercial,
pedestrian, or vehicular activity up to a maximum of 20 foot-candles.
(b) Outdoor lighting shall be 12 ft. or less in height unless the lighting is either
located on above -grade decks or balconies and is fully shielded; built into a
roof soffit and fully shielded; or is otherwise approved in Section 27.575.150
(K)•
(c) Ali light sources which are not fully shielded shall use other than a clear lens
material as the primary lens material to enclose the light bulb- so as to
minimize glare from that point light source. Exceptions may be allowed
where there is a demonstrated benefit for the community determined through
the exemption process listed in this section.
(d) High Intensity Discharge (HID) light sources are allowed with a maximum
wattage of 175 high pressure sodium (HPS) and 175 watt metal halide (coated
lamp - 3,000 degrees Kelvin). Standards for other HID light sources may be
established by the City for new technology consistent with the above
restrictions.
(e) Spacing for security and parking lot light fixtures that are pole mounted shall
be no less than 75 ft. apart. Decorative fixtures (which are also fully shielded)
are allowed to maintain a 50 ft. fixture spacing. Wall mounted fixture spacing
for security lighting shall be no less than 50 ft. measured horizontally.
Decorative fixtures directed back toward a building face shall be exempt from
this spacing requirement when shielded and shall not exceed 50 watts.
Decorative fixtures that are not shielded shall maintain a minimum spacing of
25 ft. and shall not exceed 50 watts. Where security lighting is a combination
of pole and wall mounted fixtures, minimum spacing shall be 75 ft. and a
maximum of 150 ft.
(f) Pole mounted fixtures shall be limited to two light sources per pole.
PAGE 25
(g) Mixed use areas that include residential occupancies shall comply with the
residential standards on those floors or, areas that are more than 50%
residential based on square footage of uses.
(h) Up -lighting is only permitted if the light distribution from the fixture is
effectively contained by an overhanging architectural or landscaping element.
Such elements may include awnings, dense shrubs, or year-round tree
canopies, which can functionally contain or limit illumination of the sky. In
these cases the fixture spacing is limited to one fixture per 150 sq. ft. of area
(as measured in a horizontal plane) and a total lamp wattage within a fixture of
35 watts.
(i) Up -lighting of flags is permitted with a limit of two fixtures per flag pole with
a maximum of 150 watts each. The fixtures must be shielded such that the
point source is not visible outside of a 15-ft. radius.
(j) Outdoor vending, such as gas stations, require approval for lighting. Lighting
shall not exceed a maximum of 20 candles under the canopy.
Section 18:
That Section 26.575.150 (F) Residential Lighting (Outdoor Lighting), shall be amended as
follows:
F. Residential Lighting Standards. The following lighting standards shall be
applicable to residential properties:
(a.) Outdoor lighting shall be 12 ft. or less in height unless the lighting is located
on above grade decks or balconies and is fully shielded, built into a roof
soffit and fully shielded, or is otherwise approved in Section 27.575.150
(K):
(b.) Outdoor lighting with HID light sources in excess of 35 watts (bulb or lamp)
shall be prohibited. In addition, incandescent light sources including
halogen shall not exceed 50 watts.
(c.) All light sources that are not fully shielded shall use material other than a
clear lens material to enclose the light source. The point light source shall
not be visible from adjacent properties.
(d.) Landscape lighting is limited to 35 watts per fixture per 150 sq. ft. of
landscaped area (as measured in a horizontal plane).
(e.) Security lights shall be restricted as follows:
1. The point light source shall not be visible from, adjoining lots or streets.
2. Flood lights must be controlled by a switch or preferably a motion sensor
activated only by motion within owners property.
3. Timer controlled flood lights shall be prohibited.
PAGE 26
4. Photo -cell lights shall be allowed under the following circumstances:
a.) At primary points of entrance (e.g. front entries) or in critical common
areas for commercial and multi -family properties;
b.) Where the light sources are fully -shielded by opaque material (i.e. the
fixture illuminates the area but is not itself visibly bright); and
c.) The light source or fluorescent (or compact fluorescent) to eliminate
excess electricity consumption.
5. Lights must be fully shielded, down directed and screened from adjacent
properties in a manner that limits light trespass to . i of a foot candle as
measured at the property line.
6. Light intensity shall not exceed 10 -foot-candles measured 3 ft. above
finished grade.
7. No light fixture shall be greater than 12 feet in height. Exceptions are:
a.) Tree mounted fully shielded, downward directed lights using a light of
25 watts or less, and
c) Building mounted flood lights fully shielded, downward directed lights
using a light of 50 watts or less.
(f.) Motion sensor lights may be permitted, but only where the sensor is triggered
by motion within the owner's property.lines.
(g.) Light trespass at property lines should not exceed .1 of a foot-candle as
measured at the brightest point.
Section 19:
That Section 26.575.150 (G) Street Lighting Standards (Outdoor Lighting) shall be
amended as follows:
G. Reserved.
Section 20:
That Section 26.575.150 (H) (2) Exemptions (Outdoor Lighting) shall 'be amended as
follows:
2. Municipal Lighting. Municipal lighting installed for the benefit of public health,
safety, and welfare, including but not limited to traffic control devices,
streetlights, and construction lighting.
Section 21
That Section 26.575.150 (K) Review Standards (Outdoor Lighting) shall be amended as
follows:
K. Review Standards.
PAGE 27
L Height. Outdoor residential and commercial lighting shall be twelve (12) feet or
less above grade in height. Special review by the Planning and Zoning Commission may
allow lighting of a greater height under the following circumstances:
a.) A fixture at a greater height is required due to safety, building design, or
extenuating 'circumstances in which case the light shall be fully shielded with
a non adjustable mounting; or
b.) Lighting for commercial parking and vehicle circulation areas may have a
maximum height of 20 feet above grade and shall be fully shielded
Section 22
This Resolution shall not effect any existing litigation and shall not operate as an
abatement of any action or proceeding now pending under or by virtue of the ordinances
repealed or amended as herein provided, and the same shall be conducted and concluded
under such prior ordinances.
Section 23:
If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, phrase, or portion of this Resolution is for
any reason held invalid or unconstitutional in a court of competent jurisdiction, such
portion shall be deemed a separate, distinct and independent provision and shall not affect
the validity of the remaining portions thereof.
APPROVED by the- Commission at its regular meeting on July 1, 2003.
Approved by the Commission at its regular meeting on July 1, 2003.
APPROVED AS TO FORM: PLANNING AND ZONING
COMMISSION:
David Hoefer, Asst. City Attorney
ATTEST:
Jackie Lothian, Deputy City Clerk
Jasmine Tygre, Chair
EXHIBIT A
AMENDMENTS TO THE LAND USE CODE
Section 26.310.040 - Standards for Review of an Amendment to the Text of Title 26• 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.
STAFF FINDING: DOES IT COMPLY? I YES
Staff is unaware of any portions of the Title that the application is in conflict with.
PAGE 28
B. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent with all elements of the Aspen Area
Community Plan.
STAFF FINDING: DOES IT COMPLY? YES
Staff believes that the Land Use Code is largely in compliance with the elements of
the AACP and that none of the amendments proposed in this application would
affect that compliance.
C., Whether the proposed amendment is compatible with surrounding zone districts and
land uses, considering existing land use and neighborhood characteristics.
STAFF FINDING: DOES IT COMPLY? YES
The proposed amendments apply city-wide and are proposed to help make better
land use decisions which are compatible with the existing zone districts, land uses,
and neighborhood characteristics. Staff finds that the amendments are in compliance
with .the provision above.
D. The effect of the proposed amendment on traffic generation and road safety.
STAFF FINDING:, I DOES IT COMPLY? I N/A
Staff does not believe that any of the proposed amendments will have any impact —
positive or negative — on the traffic generation and road safety.
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.
STAFF FINDING: DOES IT COMPLY? N/A
Staff finds that the proposed amendments will not result in demands on public
facilities or exceed capacity of any public facilities.
F. Whether and the extent to which the proposed amendment would result in
significantly adverse impacts on the natural environment.
STAFF FINDING: DOES IT COMPLY? YES
Staff does not believe that there will be any negative impacts to the natural
environment as a result of the proposed code amendments.
G. Whether the proposed amendment is consistent and compatible with the community
character in the City of Aspen.
STAFF FINDING: I DOES IT COMPLY? I YES
Staff finds that the proposed amendments will result in Code provisions that will
continue to protect and be consistent and compatible with the established community
character.
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H. Whether there have been changed conditions affecting the subject parcel or the
surrounding neighborhood which support the proposed amendment.
STAFF FINDING: DOES IT COMPLY? NOT APPLICABLE
The majority of the proposed amendments are in response to problems that the
Planning and Zoning Commission and staff have experienced in administering
sections of the Code and are, simply, in need of clarification.
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.
STAFF FINDING: I DOES IT COMPLY? IYES
Staff finds that the proposed amendments will not be in conflict with the public
interest and, in fact, will help to protect the public interest and will be in harmony
with the intent of this Title.
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