HomeMy WebLinkAboutPart 1 of UDCCITY OF MERIDIAN ORDINANCE NO.
BY THE CITY COUNCIL: BIRD, DONNELL, ROUNTREE, WARDLE
AN ORDINANCE REPEALING EXISTING ZONING AND SUBDIVISION
REGULATIONS CODIFIED AT TITLE 11 AND TITLE 12 OF THE MERIDIAN
CITY CODE; RE-ENACTING A NEW TITLE 11 TO BE KNOWN AS THE
UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE; AND PROVIDING AN EFFECTIVE DATE.
WHEREAS, in August 2002, the City of Meridian adopted a new
Comprehensive Plan, setting the future course for growth and development in the City of
Meridian and the Area of City Impact; and,
WHEREAS, the new Unified Development Code will provide an opportunity to
better support the Comprehensive Plan and provide a tool that is relevant and
contemporary to the needs of the City; and,
WHEREAS, a draft of the proposed Unified Development Code was prepared in
April 2004 and was thoroughly reviewed and analyzed by a Process Improvement Group
consisting of City planning staff, an architect, an engineer, and representatives from the
development community; and,
WHEREAS, the Meridian Planning and Zoning Commission held two workshops
to review the proposed Unified Development Code beginning in February 2005, and also
held public hearings on April 18, 2005 and April 25, 2005; and,
WHEREAS, the Meridian City Council held public hearings on this matter on
July 26, 2005 and August 9, 2005.
NOW, THEREOFORE, BE IT ORDAINED BY THE MAYOR AND COUNCIL
OF THE CITY OF MERIDIAN, IDAHO:
Section 1. That Title 11 of the Meridian City Code is repealed.
Section 2. That Title 12 of the Meridian City Code is repealed
Section 3. That Title 11 of the Meridian City Code is re-enacted and shall read as
presented on the following documents attached to this ordinance and incorporated herein by
this reference:
and,
"City of Meridian Unified Development Code" dated June 02, 2005;
Exhibit "A" — List of Proposed changes; and,
Exhibit "B" _. Enforcement; and,
Exhibit "C" — Private Streets; and,
Exhibit "E" — Comprehensive Plan Amendments.
(Note that Exhibit "D" has been intentionally deleted from this ordinance).
UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE - Page 1 of 3
Section 4. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect or, the 15th day of
September, 2005, after its passage, approval and publication.
PASSED by the City Council of the City of Meridian, Idaho, this
2005. day of
APPROVED by the Mayor of the City of Meridian, Idaho, this
2005. day of
APPROVED:
MAYOR
ATTEST:
CITY CLERK
UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE - Page 2 of 3
NOTICE AND PUBLISHED SUMMARY
OF ORDINANCE PURSUANT TO I.C. § 50-901(A)
CITY OF MERIDIAN ORDINANCE NO. 05 -
PROVIDING FOR THE ENACTMENT OF THE UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT
CODE
An Ordinance of the City of Meridian repealing existing zoning and subdivision
regulations codified at Title 11 and Title 12 of the Meridian City Code and re-enacting a.
new Title 11 to be known as the Unified Development Code. The new ordinance
embodies the official zoning ordinance of the City of Meridian to provide for orderly
growth and development and to carry out the policies of Meridian's Comprehensive Plan.
A full text of this ordinance is available for inspection at City Hall, City of Meridian,
33 East Idaho, Meridian, Idaho. This ordinance shall become effective on September 15,
2005.
City of Meridian
Mayor and City Council
By: William G. Berg, Jr., City Clerk
First Reading:
Adopted after first reading by suspension of the Rule as allowed pursuant to Idaho Code
50-902: YES NO
Second Reading.
Third Reading: _
STATEMENT OF MERIDIAN CITY ATTORNEY AS TO ADEQUACY OF
SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE NO. 05 -
The undersigned, Ted W. Baird, Deputy City Attorney of the City of Meridian,
Idaho, hereby certifies that he is the legal advisor of the City and has reviewed a copy of
the attached Ordinance No. 05- of the City of Meridian, Idaho, and
has found the same to be true and complete and provides adequate notice to the public
pursuant to Idaho Code § 50-901A (3).
DATED this day of August, 2005.
Ted W. Baird
Deputy City Attorney
UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE - Page 3 of 3
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CITY OF MERIDIAN
UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE
TITLE 11 UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE
Chapter 1 — General Regulations
Article A — Definitions
Article B — Nonconforming Property, Use or Structure
Chapter 2 — District Regulations
Article A. Residential Districts
Article B. Commercial Districts
Article C. Industrial Districts
Article D. Traditional Neighborhood Districts
Chapter 3 — Regulations Applying to All Districts
Article A. Standard Regulations in All Districts
ACCUMULATION OF JUNK
BIKEWAYS
CLEAR VISION TRIANGLE
DITCHES, LATERALS, CANALS OR DRAINAGE COURSES
FENCES
MULTIUSE AND MICRO PATHWAYS
NATURALFEATURES
NOXIOUS USE
OUTDOOR LIGHTING
OUTDOOR SERVICE AND EQUIPMENT AREAS
OUTDOOR SPEAKER SYSTEMS
OUTDOOR STORAGE
PRESSURIZED IRRIGATION SYSTEMS
PUBLIC UTILITIES
PUBLIC WATER SUPPLY AND SEWER -SYSTEMS
SELF-SERVICE USES
SIDEWALKS AND PARKWAYS
STORM DRAINAGE
STRUCTURES SUBJECT TO DESIGN STANDARDS
TRAVELING SLEEPING QUARTERS
UTILITIES
Article B. Landscaping Requirements
Article C. Off-street Parking and Loading Requirements
Article D. Sign Requirements
Article E. Temporary Use Requirements
Article F. Private Street Requirements
Article G. Common Open Space and Site Amenity Requirements
Chapter 4 — Specific Use Standards
ANIMAL CARE FACILITY
ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT AND RECREATION FACILITY, INDOOR AND OUTDOORS
ARTIST STUDIO
BUILDING MATERIAL, GARDEN EQUIPMENT AND SUPPLIES
CEMETERY
CHURCH OR PLACE OF RELIGIOUS WORSHIP
CIVIC, SOCIAL AND FRATERNAL ORGANIZATIONS
CONTRACTOR'S YARD
DAY CARE FACILITY
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DRINKING ESTABLISHMENT
DRIVE-THROUGH ESTABLISHMENT
DWELLING UNIT, SECONDARY
EDUCATION INSTITUTION
EQUIPMENT RENTAL, SALES, AND SERVICE
ENTERTAINMENT ESTABLISHMENT, ADULT
FINANCIAL INSTITUTION
FLEX SPACE
FOOD PRODUCTS, PROCESSING
FUEL SALES FACILITY AND FUEL SALES FACILITY, TRUCK STOP
HOME OCCUPATION
HOSPITAL
HOTEL OR MOTEL
INDUSTRY, INFORMATION
INDUSTRY, LIGHT AND HEAVY
LAUNDROMAT
MULTIFAMILY DEVELOPMENT
NURSERY OR URBAN FARM
NURSING AND RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITY
PUBLIC OR QUASI -PUBLIC USE
PUBLIC UTILITY, MAJOR; AND PUBLIC INFRASTRUCTURE
RECYCLING CENTER; SOLID WASTE TRANSFER STATION
STORAGE FACILITY, OUTSIDE
STORAGE FACILITY, SELF-SERVICE
TERMINAL, FREIGHT OR TRUCK
VEHICLE IMPOUND YARD
VEHICLE REPAIR, MAJOR AND MINOR
VEHICLE SALES OR RENTAL
VEHICLE WASHING FACILITY
VEHICLE WRECKING OR JUNKYARD
VERTICALLY INTEGRATED RESIDENTIAL PROJECT
WAREHOUSE
WIRELESS COMMUNICATION FACILITY
Chapter 5 - Administration
Article A. General Provisions
Article B. Specific Provisions
CERTIFICATE OF ZONING COMPLIANCE
UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE TEXT AMENDMENTS
ANNEXATIONS AND REZONES
VARIANCES
ALTERNATIVE COMPLIANCE
CONDITIONAL USES
Article C. Surety Agreements
Chapter 6 - Subdivision Regulations
Article A. General Provisions
Article B. Subdivision Process
Article C. Subdivision Design and Improvement Standards
Chapter 7 - Planned Unit Developments
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CHAPTER 1
GENERAL REGULATIONS
SECTIONS:
11-1-1:
TITLE
11-1-2:
PURPOSE
11-1-3:
SCOPE AND CONTENT
11-1-4:
APPLICABILITY
11-1-5:
INTERPRETATION
11-1-6:
ERRORS IN LEGAL DESCRIPTIONS OF PROPERTIES
11-1-7:
REFERENCES
11-1-8;
PRESERVATION OF PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS
11-1-9:
SAVING CLAUSE
11-1-1: TITLE: Upon adoption by the Meridian City Council, this portion of
the Meridian City Code (Title 11) is declared to be and shall hereafter constitute the
official zoning ordinance of the City of Meridian. Title 11 shall be known and cited as
the Unified Development Code of the City of Meridian. The Unified Development
Code of the City of Meridian is published by authority of the Meridian City Council,
and it shall be kept up to date as provided in Section 1-1-3 of the Official Meridian
City Municipal Code. Within this document, the Unified Development Code of the
City of Meridian shall be referred to as "this Title."
11-1-2: PURPOSE:
A. Carry out the intent and purposes of the "Local Land Use Planning Act,"
Idaho Code §67-6501 et seq. as amended;
B. Carry out the policies of the comprehensive plan by classifying and
regulating the uses of property and structures within the incorporated areas
of the City of Meridian;
C. Establish districts within the City of Meridian in accord with the adopted
comprehensive plan in conformance with Idaho Code §67-6511;
D. Provide standards for the orderly growth and development of the City of
Meridian. As required by Idaho Code §67-6511, such standards include, but
are not limited to, those regulating:
The height, number of stories, size, design, construction, reconstruction,
alteration, repair or location of structures.
2. Size, minimum lot dimensions, landscape buffers, size of required yards, and
density of residential properties.
3. The use of structures and property;
E. Ensure the most appropriate use of properties;
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F. Protect property rights and enhance property values;
G. Provide a method of administration and prescribe penalties for the violations
of regulations hereafter described as authorized by the Constitution and
Laws of the State of Idaho; and
H. Protect and promote health, safety and the general welfare.
11-1-3: SCOPE AND CONTENT: This Title shall consist of the text adopted
by Ordinance XX, as amended from time to time, and the Official Zoning Maps
adopted by Ordinance XX, as amended from time to time. Copies are available for
review at the Meridian City Hall. This Title and each and all of its terms are to be
read and interpreted in light of the designations of the Official Zoning Maps.
11-1-4: APPLICABILITY: The regulations of this Title shall apply and govern
development and use of all properties (a) within the corporate limits of the City of
Meridian and (b) outside the City limits for which annexation has been requested, or
as otherwise permitted through written agreement(s) with Ada County.
A. No person or public agency shall construct, alter, move, or change the use
of a structure or undertake any development unless:
1. The proposed use, structure, or division of property complies with this Title.
2. Any required approval is first obtained as provided by CHAPTER 5
ADMINISTRATION of this Title, and any applicable conditions of approval are
met.
B. Nothing in this Title shall eliminate the need for obtaining any other required
permits, including, but not limited to, building permits, plumbing, electrical, or
mechanical permits, grading permits, or any permit, approval, or entitlement
required by other titles of the Meridian City Municipal Code, other political
subdivisions of the State of Idaho, or agencies of the State of Idaho.
C. All properties in the Meridian City corporate limits shall comply with the
regulations of this Title unless otherwise preempted by Federal statute or
local law statutory ordinance.
D. The prosecution of violations that occurred under previous land use
regulations and that remain a violation under this Title shall continue until
resolved.
E. Applications pending as of the effective date of this Ordinance [XX]:
1. Project with pending application. All applications shall be processed
according to the regulations and requirements in effect as of the date the
Director accepted the application.
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2. Approved project with pending request for a time extension. Time extension
requests shall be consistent with the requirements that are in effect when the
original application was approved.
3. Approved projects not yet completed. Any approved application may still be
completed as provided by the approval.
11-1-5: INTERPRETATION:
A. Language.
1. Terminology. When used in this Title, all words used in the present tense
shall include the future; words used in the singular number shall include the
plural number and the plural the singular, unless the natural construction of
the sentence indicates otherwise. The word "shall' is mandatory, and the
word "may" is permissive.
2. Number of days. Whenever a number of days is specified in this Title, or in
any permit, condition of approval, or notice issued or given as provided in
this Title, the number of days shall be construed as calendar days, except
that such time limits shall extend to the following working day when the last
of the specified number of days falls on a weekend or Meridian City holiday.
3. Minimum requirements. When interpreting and applying the regulations of
this Title, all regulations shall be considered to be minimum requirements,
unless stated otherwise. Proposed uses shall comply with all applicable
regulations and standards unless specifically exempt elsewhere in this Title.
4. Defined terms. Terms defined in Section 11-1A-1 of this Title shall have their
defined meaning when used elsewhere in this Title. For the purpose of
readability and clarity, such terms are not shown in initial caps.
5. Section headings. Section headings or captions are for reference purposes
only and shall not be used in the interpretation of this Title.
6. References. All references to State or Federal laws and/or regulations shall
refer to such laws and/or regulations as they may be amended over time.
B. Measurements
1. Structure height shall be measured in accord with the Meridian City Building
Code as set forth in Title 10, Chapter 1, of the Meridian City Municipal Code.
2. Linear distance shall be measured in a horizontal line; it shall not be
measured along an inclined surface or line. For uses that have a separation
standard, the distance shall be measured from the nearest customer
entrance of the proposed use to the nearest property line of the specified
use. The measurement is to be conducted in a radial fashion by the
specified number of feet (e.g., 300 feet, 1,000 feet).
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C. District boundaries. Where uncertainty exists about the location of any
district boundary shown on the Official Zoning Map, the following rules shall
be used to resolve the uncertainty:
Where a district boundary approximately follows a property line, such
property line shall be construed as the district boundary.
Where a district boundary approximately follows a street, alley, or railroad
line, such street, alley, centerline, or the extension of such line shall be
construed as the district boundary.
3. Where a district boundary approximately follows a watercourse, the
centerline of the watercourse shall be construed to be such boundary. In the
event of a change in the watercourse shoreline, the boundary shall be
construed as moving with the actual shoreline.
4. Where a district boundary does not obviously coincide with any of the above
lines (property; street, alley, or railroad line; watercourse), or where it is not
designated by dimensions, it shall be deemed to be located along the
nearest section, quarter section, or sixteenth section line.
D. Conflicting regulations.
1. In case of conflict between the text and the maps of this Title, the maps shall
prevail.
2. If conflicts occur between different regulations of this Title, or between this
Title and other regulations of the Meridian City Municipal Code, the most
restrictive regulation shall apply.
3. It is not intended that this Title interfere with, abrogate, or annul any
easements, covenants, or other agreements between parties; however,
where this Title imposes a greater restriction upon the use of structures or
premises or upon the height of structures, or requires larger space than is
imposed or required by ordinances, rules or regulations, or by easements,
covenants, or agreements, the regulations of this Title shall govern.
E. Allowed Uses. If a proposed use of property is not specifically listed in
CHAPTER 2 district regulations, the use shall be prohibited, except as
follows: the Director may determine that a proposed use not listed in
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CHAPTER 2 district regulations, is equivalent to a principal permitted or
conditional use. In making the determination, the Director shall consider the
following:
1. The impacts on public services and activities associated with the proposed
use are substantially similar to those of one or more of the uses listed in the
applicable base districts as allowed;
2. The proposed use shall not involve a higher level of activity or density than
one or more of the uses listed in the applicable base districts as allowed;
3. The proposed use is within the same three- digit category of an allowed use
listed in the latest edition of the North American Industrial Classification
System (NAIC), published by the United States Department of Commerce;
4. The proposed use is consistent with the purpose of the district in which the
use is proposed to be located; and
5. The proposed use is in substantial conformance with goals and objectives of
the Comprehensive Plan.
11-1-6: ERRORS IN LEGAL DESCRIPTIONS OF PROPERTY: Where a
property has not been zoned because of an error in a legal description, the following
shall apply:
A. If the error is caused by the City, the error shall be corrected and duly
processed by the City as soon as the error is discovered.
B. If the error is caused by the applicant and/or owner, the applicant shall apply
for an Official Zoning Map amendment and submit the proper fees pursuant
to CHAPTER 5 administration of this Title.
11-1-7: REFERENCES: References in this Title to other ordinances or codes
of the City of Meridian and statutes of the State of Idaho are provided solely for the
coordination of this Title with such other ordinances and statutes. Any amendments
to cited codes that are adopted subsequent to the adoption of this Title shall be
applicable to this Title.
11-1-8: PRESERVATION OF PRIVATE PROPERTY RIGHTS:
A. This Title shall be interpreted to equally protect citizens from the undue
encroachment on their private property by their neighbors' use of their
private property and equally protect each citizen's right to use of their
property without creating undue burden upon their neighbors.
B. In the administration of this Title, every person shall be secure in their
premises, and no employee of the City shall enter upon, investigate, or
search any of the premises of any citizen without the consent of such citizen
or order issued by a court of proper jurisdiction.
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C. Every citizen of Meridian City shall have the right to appear in person or be
represented by their agent before the Council in the proper order of business
to appeal a decision pursuant to the procedures contained in CHAPTER 5
administration of this Title.
D. In the enforcement of this Title, it shall be deemed to apply equally to each
citizen and each property in similar circumstances, and shall not be enforced
to discriminate between one individual and/or another individual or other
group as compared to all others.
11-1-9: SAVING CLAUSE: Should any section, clause, or regulation of this
Title be declared by a court of competent jurisdiction to be invalid, the same shall
not affect the validity of this Title as a whole, or any part thereof, other than the part
so declared to be invalid, each section, clause, or regulation hereof being declared
severable.
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CHAPTER1
GENERAL REGULATIONS
ARTICLE A. DEFINITIONS
ARTICLE A. SECTIONS:
11-1A-1: DEFINITIONS
11-1A-2: FIGURE 1 AND FIGURE 2
11-1A-1: DEFINITIONS: As used in this Title, each of the terms defined shall
have the meaning given in this section unless a different meaning is clearly required
by the content. Where terms are not defined, they shall have their ordinary accepted
meanings within the context with which they are used. The most current version of
the Merriam -Webster's Unabridged Dictionary of the English Language shall be
considered as providing accepted meanings. References to the NAIC are North
American Industrial Classification System (NAIC), published by the United States
Department of Commerce.
ABANDONED To cease or discontinue a use or activity for twelve (12) months without apparent intent to
resume. See also sign, abandoned.
ABUT OR ABUTTING
Having a common border with the subject property.
ACCESSORY
A detached structure in a residential base district that is incidental and subordinate to the
STRUCTURE
principal structure and is located upon the same property. The term accessory structure shall
include, but not be limited to, the following. private garage, storage structure, workshop, and/or
greenhouse. The term shall not include additional structures for approved public, commercial,
or industrial uses.
ACCESSORY USE
A use that is incidental and subordinate to the principal use, and is conducted upon the same
property.
ADA COUNTY STREET
An advisory group on street naming.
NAME COMMITTEE
ALLEY
A public or private way affording only secondary means of access to abutting property at the
back or side of a property.
ALLOWED USE
Any use listed in Tables 11-2A-2, 11-28-2, 11-2C-2 and 11-2D-2, as a principal permitted,
conditional, or an accessory use.
ALTERATIONS,
Any change, other than incidental repairs, which would prolong the life of the supporting
STRUCTURAL
members of a building or structures, such as bearing walls, columns, beams, and girders.
ALTERNATIVE
An administrative determination that a specific application achieves or exceeds specific
COMPLIANCE
requirements as set forth in this Title. Consideration of alternative compliance is limited in
circumstances as identified in this Title.
ANIMAL CARE FACILITY Any structure, or portion thereof, that is designed or used for the boarding, care, grooming,
diagnosis or treatment of animals, including but not limited to sick, ailing, infirm or injured
animals, and those that are in need of medical or surgical attention. The term animal care shall
include but not be limited to an animal clinic, animal hospital, or veterinary office or kennel.
Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
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ANNEXATION
The process by which the City's corporate boundary is expanded to incorporate additional
property pursuant to Idaho Code §50-222.
ANTENNA
A transmitting or receiving device used in telecommunication that radiates or captures radio or
MACHINE (ATM)
other signals, including omni -directional or whip, directional or panel, parabolic or dish, and
ancillary antennae.
ANTENNA,
Also known as a whip antenna. Receives and transmits signals in a 360 degree pattern of
OMNI -DIRECTIONAL
varying lengths and typically less than 4 inches in diameter.
ANTENNA, ANCILLARY
An antenna that is less than 12 inches in its largest dimension and that is not directly used to
provide personal wireless communication services (i.e., cell phone service.) An example
would be a global positioning antenna.
ANTENNA, DIRECTIONAL
Also known as panel antenna. Receives and transmits a signal in a directional pattern typically
encompassing an arc of 120 degrees.
ANTENNA, PARABOLIC
Also known as dish antenna. A bowl -shaped device that receives and transmits signals in a
specific directional pattern.
APPROVED USE
The term approved use as used in this Article shall include, but not be limited to: a principal
permitted use with a certificate of zoning compliance; an approved conditional use; or an
approved accessory use.
ARTERIAL See street, arterial
ARTISTS STUDIO The use of the site for small-scale, craftsman -operated production of materials, assembly of
parts, or the blending of materials, including metal, plastics, computer components,
electronics, oils, and resins. Uses included are furniture refinishing, machine shops, cabinet-
makers, frame shops, and works of art.
ARTS, ENTERTAINMENT The use of a site or facility for entertainment, spectator sports or recreational activities. The
AND RECREATION use includes, but is not limited to: amusement parks, carnivals, motion picture and performing
FACILITIES arts theaters, racetracks, sports fields, golf courses, fitness clubs, museums, zoos, marinas,
(NAICS CODE 71) bowling, video and other games and amusements.
AWNING
A projecting cover extending over a door, window or wall section with support attached to the
structures and used as cover, protection, or as decoration.
AUTOMATED TELLER
A pedestrian -oriented banking device operated by a financial institution for use by its
MACHINE (ATM)
customers for conducting transactions. The machines may be located at or within the financial
institutions, or in other locations. ATMs for use by customers in vehicles are included in the
definition of drive-through establishment.
BABYSITTING
1) The act of caring for up to three (3) children at the home of the babysitter while the parents
or usual guardians are absent on a sporadic or occasional basis; or 2) The act of caring for
sibling children at their home or at the home of a relative. Babysitting is not regulated by this
Title.
BARRIER
A vertical element including, but not limited to, a fence, wall, structure, or a combination
thereof, that completely surrounds an area and controls access to such area.
BERM
An earthen mound designed to provide visual interest, screen undesirable views, and/or
decrease noise.
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BUFFER A combination of physical space and vertical elements, including but not limited to, trees,
shrubs, berms, artwork, fountains, seating and/or other landscape features.
BUILDING A building shall be as defined by Title 10 BUILDING REGULATIONS, Chapter 1, of the Meridian
City Code.
BUILDING ENVELOPE The area on a property exclusive of the required yards, setbacks, buffers, and unbuildable
areas. See Figure 1.
BUILDING MATERIAL, The use of a site for the retail sale and service of merchandise used in home and garden
GARDEN EQUIPMENT, improvements. The use includes home and garden centers; hardware stores; lawn and garden
AND SUPPLIES (NAICS equipment supply stores; paint and wallpaper stores; lumber yards; nursery, garden and farm
CODE 444) supply stores.
BUILDING OFFICIAL The officer or other designated authority charged with the administration and enforcement of
the Building Code as established by Title 7 of the Meridian City Code or the Building Official's
duly authorized representative.
CALIPER A measurement of the diameter of the trunk of a deciduous tree. The caliper of the trunk shall
be measured six (6) inches above the ground for all trees up to and including 4 -inch caliper
size, and 12 inches above the ground for larger sizes.
CANOPY A roof -like structure projecting from the exterior surface of a building, but not attached to the
building or freestanding, constructed of a supporting framework and covered with nonrigid
materials.
CASH ESCROW Cash or certified check submitted to the City Clerk for incomplete landscape improvements in
order to secure a temporary Certificate of Occupancy.
CEMETERY The use of a site for the interment of human remains or cremated remains. The use includes
burial parks, mausoleum for vault or crypt interments, columbarium for cinerary interments or a
combination thereof.
CERTIFICATE OF Official certification that a building and site conform to the provisions of City Codes, including
OCCUPANCY appropriate conditions such as a development agreement, and/or conditional use permit.
CERTIFICATE OF A document issued by the Director that certifies that the structure or use meets the
ZONING COMPLIANCE requirements of this Title.
CHORD MEASUREMENT A straight line measurement from the beginning point of a curvature to the ending point of a
curvature.
CHURCH OR PLACE OF An establishment that by design and construction is primarily intended for conducting
RELIGIOUS WORSHIP organized religious services, meetings, and associated activities and that is recognized as a
religious corporation or society of the State of Idaho with a state tax exempt status in accord
with Idaho Code §63-6028.
CITY The City of Meridian, Idaho.
CITY ENGINEER The City Engineer of the City of Meridian, Idaho, or an authorized representative of the
Meridian Public Works Department.
CIVIC, SOCIAL AND A facility owned or operated by an organized association of persons for a social, literary,
FRATERNAL political, educational or recreational purpose primarily for the exclusive use of members and
ORGANIZATIONS (NAICS their guests; and not primarily operated for profit nor to render a service that is customarily
CODE 813) carded on as a business.
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CLEAR VISION TRIANGLE The boundaries of an area at the intersection of (a) two (2) public streets; (b) the intersection
of a public street and driveway; (c) the intersection of a public street and alley; or (d) at the
crossing of a railroad over a street, where visual observations are limited and specified by this
Title for the purpose of protecting public health and safety. Also known as a sight vision
triangle. See Figure 3.
COLOCATION The use of a single tower to support more than one wireless telecommunication service
provider's equipment, or the mounting of an antenna to a preexisting structure.
COMMERCIAL VEHICLE See vehicle, commercial.
COMMISSION The Planning and Zoning Commission of the City of Meridian, Idaho.
COMMON DRIVE An access shared by adjacent property owners that is privately owned and maintained.
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN The duly adopted comprehensive plan for the City of Meridian, Idaho, pursuant to the "Local
Land Use Planning Act," Idaho Code §67-6501 et seq. as amended.
CONDITIONAL USE A use that, owing to some special characteristics attendant to its operation or installation (for
example, potential danger, hours of operation, or noise), is allowed in a district subject to
approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission and subject to special requirements in
conformance with Chapter 5, Article B of this Title and as enabled by Idaho Code §67-6512.
CONDOMINIUM An estate in real property as defined in Idaho Code §55-101B that is not a subdivision.
CONTIGUOUS LAND Unplatted parcels held in one ownership that abut each other at a common boundary.
CONTRACTOR A person who agrees to furnish materials or perform services at a specified price, especially
for construction. The term contractor shall include, but not be limited to, building, landscaping,
electrical, plumbing, heating, or air conditioning contractors.
CONTRACTOR'S YARD Any area of land used by a contractor for storage, maintenance, or processing incidental to
the business of building, hauling, excavation, demolition, or similar activity and including any
area of land used for minor pre -installation work or repair of machinery used for any of the
above listed activities.
CORNER PROPERTY
COUNCIL
CUL-DE-SAC
See property, comer.
Meridian City Council.
See street, cul-de-sac.
DAY CARE FACILITY Any home, structure or place where nonmedical care, protection or supervision is regularly
provided to children under twelve years of age, or disabled persons of any age, for periods of
less than twenty-four (24) hours per day, while the parents or guardians are not on the
premises. There are three types of day care facilities distinguished by the number of
individuals served:
Day care center: more than twelve (12).
Day care, group: more than six (6) but no greater than twelve (12).
Day care, family: six (6) or fewer.
DECISION-MAKING BODY The Director, Commission, or Council, as set forth in Chapter 5 of this Title.
DEDICATION The setting apart of land or interests in land for public use, charitable, religious, or educational
purposes.
DENSITY The number of dwelling units per acre of land.
4 Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
DENSITY, GROSS The ratio of the total number of dwelling units within a development divided by the total area,
including streets; alleys; easements; waterways; and common spaces.
DEVELOPMENT
Any construction or installation of a structure, or any change in use of a structure, or any
FAMILY ATTACHED
subdivision of property, or any change in the use of the land that creates additional demand
DWELLING, SINGLE-
and/or need for public facilities.
DEVELOPMENT
A written agreement as a condition of annexation or rezone between the Council and an
AGREEMENT
owner or applicant concerning the use or development of a property in accord with Idaho
TOWNHOUSE
Code §67-6511 A and Chapter 5 ADMINISTRATION of this Title.
DEVELOPMENT
An application for development that requires approval and/or action by the Director,
APPLICATION
Commission, or Council.
DIRECTOR
The Director of the Meridian City Planning Department or an authorized representative.
DISTRICT OR ZONE
The zone district classification, listed in Chapter 2 of this Title, in effect on any given property.
DRINKING
The use of a site primarily for the sale or dispensing of alcohol by the drink or glass. The use
ESTABLISHMENT
includes, but is not limited, to bar, brewery, lounge, night club, and tavern.
DRIVE-THROUGH
The use of a portion of a structure where business is transacted, or is capable of being
ESTABLISHMENT
transacted, directly with customers located in a motor vehicle. The term drive-through
establishment shall include, but not be limited to, providing food or beverage service, bank
service, and/or film processing. The term drive-through establishment shall not include fuel
sales facility or vehicle washing facility as herein defined.
DUSTLESS MATERIALS
Hard surfaces used for driveways, loading and parking including but not limited to concrete,
asphalt, grasscrete, pavers, bricks, and macadam.
DWELLING OR
Any structure, or portion thereof, providing independent living facilities for one family as herein
DWELLING UNIT
defined, including provisions for living, sleeping, eating, cooking, and sanitation. See Figure 2,
of this Title, for types of dwellings.
DWELLING, A structure, or portion thereof, that contains three (3) or more dwelling units or apartments,
MULTIFAMILY where all such units are located on the same property. For the purposes of this Title, a
multifamily dwelling shall be deemed multifamily development.
DWELLING, SECONDARY A habitable dwelling unit established in conjunction with and subordinate to a single-family
dwelling unit. The term shall include guest house, granny flat, carriage house, garage
apartment and caretaker unit.
DWELLING, SINGLE-
A structure containing two (2) dwelling units attached by a common wall or walls, where each
FAMILY ATTACHED
dwelling unit is located on a separate property.
DWELLING, SINGLE-
A detached structure that accommodates a single dwelling.
FAMILY DETACHED
DWELLING,
A structure containing three (3) or more dwelling units attached by common walls where each
TOWNHOUSE
dwelling unit is located on a separate property.
DWELLING, TWO-FAMILY
A structure containing two (2) dwelling units attached by a common wall, where both dwelling
DUPLEX
units are located on the same property.
EASEMENT
A right of use, falling short of ownership, and usually for a certain stated purpose, as defined
by Idaho Code §50-1301.
Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
EDUCATION
The use of a site for education purposes not supported by the State of Idaho. The use
INSTITUTION, PRIVATE
includes, but is not limited to, elementary and secondary schools; institutions of higher
(NAICS CODE 61)
learning; professional, technical and trade schools; driving schools; fine arts schools and
studios.
EDUCATION
The use of a site for education supported by the state of Idaho, The use includes, but is not
INSTITUTION, PUBLIC
limited to, elementary and secondary schools; institutions of higher learning; and vocational
FLAG, DECORATIVE
schools.
(NAICS CODE 61)
business identification and/or attract, distract, hold, direct or focus public attention.
EMPLOYEE
A person employed on the premises by the property owner and receiving not less than
SUBSTANCE STORAGE
seventy-five percent (75%) of the employee's annual income from said property owners.
ENTERTAINMENT, ADULT
Adult entertainment shall be as defined in Title 3, Chapter 10 of the Meridian City Code.
EQUIPMENT SALES,
The use of a site for the sale, rental or servicing of tools, trucks, tractors, construction
RENTAL AND SERVICES
equipment, agricultural implements, or similar industrial equipment.
FAMILY
1) A person living alone or two or more persons related by blood or marriage; 2) A group of not
more than ten (10) persons who need not be related by blood or marriage living together in a
dwelling unit; 3) Eight (8) or fewer unrelated mentally and/or physically handicapped or elderly
persons residing in a dwelling under staff supervision, provided that no more than two (2) staff
members reside in the dwelling at any one time.
FENCE
An enclosure or barrier constructed of wood, masonry, stone, wire, metal or other
manufactured materials used to enclose, screen or separate areas. Walls, latticework, and
screen are considered fences.
FENCE, CLOSED VISION
A fence that does restrict or impede vision or sight through the fence by twenty percent (20%)
or more.
FENCE, OPEN VISION
A fence that does not restrict or impede vision or sight through the fence by more than twenty
percent (200/6),
FENCE, NON -SCALABLE
A fence erected as a barrier to unauthorized access by persons or vehicles, usually six feet
(6) in height and often made of wrought iron or woven wire.
FENCE, SOLID
A fence that effectively conceals from viewers in or on adjoining properties and streets,
materials stored and operations conducted behind it,
FINAL PLAT
See plat, final.
FINANCIAL INSTITUTION
The use of a site for lending, exchanging and handling money or currency for customers. The
(NAICS CODE 52)
use includes, but is not limited to, credit unions, savings and loan, commercial banks, cash
machines, insurance agents, and loan establishments.
FLAG, CONVENTIONAL
Any fabric or bunting containing distinctive colors, patterns, or emblems used as a symbol of a
government, political subdivision, or other such entity.
FLAG, DECORATIVE
Any fabric or bunting containing distinctive colors, patterns, or symbols used to communicate
business identification and/or attract, distract, hold, direct or focus public attention.
FLAMMABLE
An establishment, or portion thereof, wherein combustible substances (as defined by the
SUBSTANCE STORAGE
Uniform Fire Code) are stored.
FLEX SPACE
The use of a site for warehousing, offices, and/or retail showroom, Flexibility in use of the
interior spaces and low -scale, attractive exterior appearance characterize flex buildings.
6 Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
FLOOR AREA, GROSS
The measure of total square footage of habitable space of a structure.
FOOD PRODUCTS,
PROCESSING
The use of a site for producing, manufacturing, processing or storage of food products. The
use includes, but is not limited to beverages,
(NAILS CODE 311)
coffee, ice, snacks, fruits, vegetables, spices,
confections and dairy ry products, Excluded uses
refining. are animal products, seafood, milling and
FOOTPRINT
Area of the ground covered by a structure, including the foundation and all areas enclosed by
exterior walls and/or footings.
FREIGHT TERMINAL
See terminal, freight or truck.
FRONT PROPERTY LINE
See property line, front.
FRONTAGE
The front of theproperty,measured along the street from side roe line to side property
property rtY
line. On corner lots and through lots,
all sides of a lot adjacent to streets shall be considered
frontage.
FRONTAGE STREET
See street, frontage.
FULL CUT-OFF SHIELD
In its installed position, a light fixture with a full cut-off shield will not
allow any direct light
above a horizontal plane and no more than five percent (5%) of the total light output may
come from the zone from fifteen (15) degrees below the horizontal to the horizontal
Figure 5, of this Title. plane. See
FUEL SALES FACILITY
A retail establishment that sells and supplies motor fuel, lubricating oils, and/or grease to on -
premise trade. The use may also include
an accessory convenience store selling a limited line
of groceries and self- service food items.
FUEL SALES FACILITY,
TRUCK STOP
A retail establishment that sells and supplies motor fuel, lubricating oils, and/or grease to on -
premise trade, primarily to trucking
industry. The use may also include accessory repair
shops, automated washes, convenience store, restaurant and/or motel.
GIRDLING
Damaging or removing the bark and cambium layer around a tree trunk in a manner that
usually kills the tree.
GLARE
Light emitted from a fixture with intensity great enough to cause visual discomfort, eye fatigue,
reduction in a viewer's ability to see and, in
extreme cases, momentary blindness,
GRADE
The elevation of the finished surface of the ground adjacent to the midpoint of any exterior wall
of a building or structure.
GRANDFATHER RIGHTS
See Chapter 1, Article 6 nonconforming property, use, or structure of this Title.
GRAND OPENING
A promotional activity used by newly established businesses,
within two (2) months after
occupancy, to inform the public of their location and service available to the community. Grand
opening does not mean an annual
or occasional promotion of retail sales by a business.
GROSS LAND AREA
The total area of the land being developed, exclusive of required street buffers and buffers
between incompatible land uses. The
calculation for required open space in residential
subdivisions and multifamily residential development is based on the land
land
being developed. gross area of the
HARDSHIP
An unusual situation on an individual property that will not permit the property owner to enjoy
the full utilization of their property as is enjoyed
by others in the same District. A hardship can
exist only when it is not self-created. Examples of hardship include unusual
shape of the
property, natural features, or other exceptional physical conditions on the property.
Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
HEAD-TO-HEAD
Placement of sprinkler heads in a rectangular pattern such that one sprinkler head sprays to
SPACING
the next (spacing is fifty percent (50%) of the sprinkler's spray diameter).
HEALTH AUTHORITY
The Central District Health Department, the Idaho Department of Health and Welfare, the
HOSPITAL
United States Environmental Protection Agency, and any agency as may succeed to any of
their powers. The term health authority shall be liberally construed to include all of the
adopted, approved or certified plans, rules, regulations, statutes or laws of the health
authority.
HEALTH CARE AND
The use of a site for ambulatory health care services. Included in this use are offices of
SOCIAL SERVICES
dentists; physicians; chiropractors; optometrists; mental health practitioners; physical,
IMPACT AREA
occupational and speech therapists; audiologists; outpatient care centers; family planning
(NAICS CODE 62)
centers, medical and diagnostic laboratories, imaging centers, kidney dialysis centers; blood
IMPERVIOUS SURFACE
and organ banks.
HEAVY INDUSTRY See industry, heavy.
HEIGHT, WIRELESS The vertical distance measured from finished grade to the top of the pole, structure, or tower,
COMMUNICATION including the antenna.
FACILITY
HOME OCCUPATION
An occupation, profession, activity, or use that is clearly an incidental and secondary use of a
residential dwelling unit and that does not alter the exterior of the property or affect the
residential character of the neighborhood.
HOSPITAL
A medical institution licensed by the State that is devoted to the maintenance and operation of
facilities for the medical or surgical care of patients twenty-four (24) hours a day, including air
transport facilities. The term hospital does not include health care and social services, nursing
and residential care facility, or establishments that forcibly confine patients.
HOTEL OR MOTEL
An establishment that provides lodging to the public for a fee as defined by Idaho Code §67-
4711.
IMPACT AREA
The area of future possible city incorporation as established by the Area of City Impact
Agreement with Ada County.
IMPERVIOUS SURFACE
A surface that has been compacted or covered with a layer of material so that it is highly
resistant to infiltration or absorption by water. It includes surfaces such as compacted sand or
clay as well as most conventionally surfaced streets, roofs, sidewalks and parking lots.
INDUSTRY,
The use of a site for processing data. The use includes, but is not limited to, publishing
INFORMATION
industries such as newspapers, books, music, Internet and software; recording and
broadcasting studios; data processing centers, call centers, Internet providers and other
(NAISC CODE 51)
information systems.
INDUSTRY, HEAVY
1) A use engaged in the basic processing and manufacturing of materials or products,
predominately from extracted or raw materials; 2) A use engaged in storage or manufacturing
processes using flammable or explosive materials; 3) Storage or manufacturing processes
that potentially involve hazardous or commonly recognized offensive conditions.
INDUSTRY, LIGHT
A use engaged in the manufacture, processing, fabrication, assembly, treatment, and/or
packaging of finished products or parts, predominantly from previously prepared materials.
INFILL
Any vacant lot or parcel within a developed area of the City, where at least eighty percent
(801/6) of the land within a three hundred feet (300') radius of the site has been developed, and
where water, sewer, streets, schools and fire protection have already been developed and are
provided.
Chapter 'I Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
JUNK Discarded, used, or secondhand materials, including but not limited to, used machinery, scrap
copper, brass, iron, steel, other ferrous and non-ferrous metals, tools, appliances, implements,
vehicles or portions thereof, furniture, beds and bedding, rags, glass, plastic, cordage, rubber,
building materials (excluding lumber), or other waste that has been abandoned from its
original use and may be used again in its present or in a new form.
LANDSCAPE Watering, weeding, pruning, mowing, litter removal, pest control, and removal/repair of
MAINTENANCE vandalism as needed to maintain a neat and orderly appearance.
LAUNDROMAT 1) An establishment that provides washing, drying, and/or ironing machines for hire; 2) an
establishment that provides washing, drying and/or ironing services to walk-in retail
customers.
LAUNDRY AND DRY An establishment that washes large quantities of laundry or dry cleaning for commercial
CLEANING patrons in machines larger than standard laundry machines.
LETTER OF CREDIT A letter issued by a bank or other guaranteed financial institution authorizing the City of
Meridian to draw a stated amount of money from the issuing bank under specific, stated
conditions.
LIGHT INDUSTRY See industry, light.
LIGHTING, DIRECT Lighting, the source of which is visible to a viewer and/or which is reflected from the surface of
a sign or building.
LIGHTING, INDIRECT OR Lighting for which the source of light is located in such a manner that the light must travel
INTERNAL through a translucent material other than the bulb or tube necessary to enclose the light
source, which material has the effect of dispersing the light before it strikes the eye of the
viewer.
LIVING AREA The area of a residential dwelling as measured in square feet, excluding the garage
LOT A portion of a subdivision intended as a unit for transfer of ownership and development
LOT, COMMON
A lot held in common ownership among all owners of the subdivision and separate from
individual building lots.
MANSARD ROOF
A sloped facade architecturally able to be treated as a building wall.
MANUFACTURED HOME
1) A dwelling constructed according to HUD/FHA construction and safety standards and as
defined by Idaho Code §39-4105.2) A rehabilitated dwelling certified by the State of Idaho
Department of Labor and Industry, Building Safety Division.
MANUFACTURED HOME
A multifamily residential development developed exclusively for siting manufactured homes on
PARK
individual spaces that are rented or leased.
MATCHED
Sprinklers that are designed to work together on the same irrigation valve to deliver an
PRECIPITATION RATES
equivalent rate of water application, regardless of the arc of the nozzle being used.
MICROPATH
A pathway providing access by way of a short travel link between points of destination.
MITIGATION
An action that will eliminate, minimize or compensate for impacts from development or uses.
MOBILE HOME
A transportable structure suitable for year-round single-family occupancy and having water,
electrical, sewage connections similar to those of conventional dwellings. This definition
applies only to units constructed prior to June 15, 1976,
Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
MONOPOLE A cylindrical -shaped pole, usually made of steel, that has no visible break in shape or
appearance, other than tapering, which is secured to the ground in a manner to stand
vertically upright.
MORTUARY An establishment in which deceased human bodies are kept and prepared for burial or
cremation.
MOTEL
See hotel or motel.
MULCH
A protective covering placed around plants to prevent the evaporation of moisture, the
freezing of roots, and the growth of weeds.
MULTIFAMILY
Development where there are three (3) or more dwelling units or apartments located on the
DEVELOPMENT
same property. A multifamily dwelling may or may not be present on the property.
MULTIFAMILY DWELLING
See dwelling, multifamily.
NATURAL WATERWAYS
Natural waterways as defined by the United States Army Corp of Engineers, including but not
limited to, the Five Mile Creek, Eight Mile Creek, Ten Mile Creek, and Jackson Drain.
NEIGHBORING
Abutting properties and any properties separated from the subject property solely by a
PROPERTIES
roadway or dedicated easement.
NONCONFORMING
A property that lawfully existed prior to the effective date of this Title, but that does not now
PROPERTY
conform to the dimensional standards for the district in which it is located.
NONCONFORMING SIGN
See sign, nonconforming.
NONCONFORMING
A structure that was lawfully constructed and/or existing prior to the effective date of this Title
STRUCTURE
but that does not conform to the dimensional standards for the district in which it is located.
NONCONFORMING USE
A use that lawfully existed prior to the effective date of this Title but that does not now conform
to the allowed uses for the district in which it is located.
NURSERY OR URBAN
Any grounds, structures, greenhouses, or premises in which garden, landscaping, or florist's
FARM
stock is propagated, grown, stored, or packed for commercial sale, and where the general
public may purchase goods.
NURSING AND
The use of a site for providing assistance to individuals needed to perform the routines of daily
RESIDENTIAL CARE
life. The use includes, but is not limited to, children's treatment facility, assisted care, skilled
FACILITY
nursing facility, residential care facility, and drug and alcohol treatment facility.
(NAICS CODE 623)
OPEN SPACE
An area substantially open to the sky that may be on the same property with a structure. The
area may include, along with the natural environmental features, parks, playgrounds, trees,
water areas, swimming pools, tennis courts, community centers or other recreational facilities,
The term shall not include streets, parking areas, or structures for habitation.
OUTDOOR ACTIVITY
An area not fully enclosed that is associated with the use, including storage, equipment,
AREA
loading and docking, but excluding vehicle parking.
OWNER
A person, as herein defined, having sufficient proprietary interest in the land to maintain
proceedings under this Title.
PARCEL
A tract of unplatted land or contiguous unplatted land held in single ownership, considered a
unit for purposes of development.
10 Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
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PARCEL OF RECORD, A parcel of land that was of record in the Ada County Recorder's office prior to April 2, 1984.
ORIGINAL
PARKING FACILITY
The use of a site for parking vehicles for a fee.
PARKING LOT OVERLAY
Any resurfacing of existing parking lot areas with asphalt or other permanent material.
PARKING LOT
Removal of the existing parking surface done for the purpose of improvement or repair.
REPLACEMENT
of Chapter 3, Article C. OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS of this Title.
PARKING LOT,
Any change in the configuration, size or distribution of existing painted stripes designed to
RESTRIPING
create spaces for motorized vehicles.
PARKING SPACE, OFF-
An area adequate for parking an automobile with dimensions conforming to the requirements
STREET
of Chapter 3, Article C. OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS of this Title.
PARK
A public or private open space that is primarily used for active recreation.
PARKWAY
A landscaped area located between the edge of a street section or curb and a sidewalk
dedicated to separate pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
PEDESTRIAN SCALE
The proportional relationship between buildings, outdoor spaces, or streetscapes and the
PERSONAL AND
dimensions of the human body. Design on a pedestrian scale is dimensionally smaller than
PROFESSIONAL
design intended for vehicular traffic flow. Examples are lighting and other street features that
SERVICES
are no higher than twelve feet (12'); surfaces with small dimensions such as brick and pavers,
a variety of planting and landscaping; arcades or awnings that reduce the perception of wall
heights; buildings that reflect detail, texture and variety, and signs that are designed for the
pedestrian viewing from a short distance.
PENNANT
Any lightweight plastic, fabric, or other material, whether or not containing a message of any
kind, suspended from a rope, wire, or string, usually in series, designed to move in the wind.
The display of a single pennant, unattached to another, may be regarded as a type of
decorative flag.
PERMITTED USE
See principal permitted use.
PERSON
Includes, but is not limited to, an individual, associations, joint ventures, partnerships, estates,
trusts, business trusts, syndicates, fiduciaries, corporations, and all other or any other similar
entity.
PERSONAL AND
The use of a site for the provision of individualized services generally related to personal
PROFESSIONAL
needs. Personal service uses include, but are not limited to beauty and health care services
SERVICES
such as salons, hair, nail and skin care, spa, and barbers; locksmiths; and repairs such as
footwear and leather goods, and watches. Professional service uses include, but are not
limited to: architects, landscape architects and other design services; computer designers;
consultants; lawyers; media advisors; photography studios, and title companies. The term
does not include health care and social service.
PLANNED UNIT
Property planned as a unit that demonstrates innovation and creativity in site design to protect
DEVELOPMENT (PUD)
natural features, preserve open space and create public amenities.
PLAT, FINAL
A map or plan of an approved preliminary plat meeting all the requirements as set forth in
Chapter 6 SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS of this Title and in a form required for recording with the
Ada County Recorder.
PLAT, PRELIMINARY
A tentative map or plan of a proposed subdivision of land, cemetery, or replatting of land,
meeting all the requirements set forth in Chapter 6 SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS of this Title.
11 Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
PLAT, RECORDED
A final plat including certificates, descriptions, approvals and requirements as set forth in
PROPERTY BOUNDARY
Chapter 6 SUBDIVISION REGULATIONS of this Title and the Idaho Statutes, and recorded with the
ADJUSTMENT
Ada County Recorder.
POWER PLANT
1) An electricity -generating facility regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
PROPERTY, FLAG
including, but not limited to, fossil fuel, geothermal, hydroelectric, biomass, and wind energy
conversion facilities; or 2) A Qualifying Facility as set forth in 18 CFR Part 131.80.
PRINCIPAL PERMITTED
The use of land or a structure allowed in a specific district as distinguished from an accessory
USE
or conditional use.
PROHIBITED USE
Any use that is not listed as an allowed use for that district in Tables 11-2A-2, 11 -2B -1,11-2C-1,
and 11-2D-1, or as determined by the Director in accord with Chapter 1 GENERAL REGULATIONS
PROPERTY LINE, SIDE
of this Title.
PROPERTY
A lot or parcel as herein defined.
PROPERTY BOUNDARY
The division for conveyance of a lot or parcel for the purpose of adjusting the boundary
ADJUSTMENT
between properties.
PROPERTY, CORNER
A property located at the intersection of two (2) or more streets.
PROPERTY, FLAG
A property in the shape of a flag on a pole where access to the street is from a narrow right-of-
way.
PROPERTY LINE, FRONT
The line separating the lot or parcel from the street on which it takes access, excluding alleys.
PROPERTY LINE, REAR
The property line opposite and most distant from the front property line. Where the lot or
Parcel is irregular and the property lines converge, the rear property line shall be deemed to
be a line at a point where the side property lines are not less than twenty (20) feet apart.
PROPERTY LINE, SIDE
Any property line other than a front or rear property line. A property line adjoining a street is
called a street side property line. A property line adjoining another property is called an interior
side property line.
PROPERTY SIZE
The computed horizontal area contained within a property.
PROPERTY, THROUGH
A property other than a corner property having frontage on two (2) parallel or approximately
parallel streets, excluding alleys.
PUBLIC AMENITY
The term public use or amenity shall include, but not be limited to, the following: school site,
bike path, transit shelter, park site, and public safety facility such as police, fire, or emergency
medical facilities.
PUBLIC OR QUASI-
The use of a site for a public purpose or public facility, including municipal, state and federal
PUBLIC USE
services. The use includes, but is not limited to, city hall; community centers; courts; emission
testing facility; fire station; law enforcement; library; park-and-ride lot; post office; and transit
stations.
PUBLIC RIGHT-OF-WAY A right-of-way open to the public and subject to the jurisdiction of a public highway agency.
PUBLIC UTILITY Facilities owned and operated by a public utility as defined in Idaho Code §61-129.
PUBLIC The use of a site for a public infrastructure including, but not limited to: 1) power substation,
INFRASTRUCTURE electric substation, grid switching site, electric transmission line; 2) water reservoir; and 3)
municipal wastewater and treatment facility.
12 Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
PUBLIC UTILITY, MINOR
The use of a site for minor public utility infrastructure including, but not limited to: 1) pumping
station for water, sewer, or gas; 2) electric sub -transmission line, electric distribution line; 3)
water tank; and 4) storm drainage facility and storm detention facility that is not within a right-
of-way.
PUBLIC UTILITY, MAJOR
The use of a site for a public purpose, including municipal and utility shops, garage, or
storage.
QUASI PUBLIC USE
See public or quasi -public use.
REAR PROPERTY LINE
See property line, rear.
REAR YARD
See yard, rear.
RECREATION ITEM,
The term personal recreation item shall include, but not be limited to, bus, boat, snowmobile,
PERSONAL
horse trailer, and all terrain vehicles.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
A portable structure primarily designed as temporary living accommodation for recreational,
camping, and travel use and as defined in Idaho Code §49-119.
RECREATIONAL VEHICLE
A premise upon that two (2) or more parking sites are located, established, or maintained for
PARK
occupancy by recreational vehicles for temporary use for recreation or vacation purposes.
RECYCLING CENTER
An establishment that is not a junkyard and in which recoverable resource materials, such as
paper products, glassware, and metal cans, are collected, sorted, flattened, crushed, or
bundled within a completely enclosed structure prior to shipment to others who use such
resource materials to manufacture new products.
RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT
For the purposes of this Title, the term residential district shall include the Low Density
Residential District (R-2), Medium Low Density Residential District (R-4), Medium Density
Residential District (R-8), Medium High Density Residential District (R-15), High Density
Residential District (R-40), and Traditional Neighborhood Residential District (TN -R).
REQUIRED YARD
See yard, required.
RESTAURANT
1) The use of a site for the primary purpose of food preparation, having kitchen and cooking
facilities, and where meals are regularly served to the public for compensation. The use
includes, but is not limited to cafe, coffee shop, delicatessen, diner, eatery, grill, pizza parlor,
restaurant, retail bakery; sushi bar, steakhouse. 2) Establishments with a liquor license that
includes a restaurant certificate and that meet the definition of restaurant as set forth in Idaho
Administrative Code 11.05.01.04.3) Establishments with a beer and wine license that meet
the definition of restaurant as set forth in Idaho Administrative Code 11.05.01.04, including but
not limited to brew pubs and wine bars.
RETAIL STORE
The use of a site that offers merchandise to the public for monetary compensation. The use
includes, but is not limited to, convenience stores; food stores; apparel and accessories
stores; book, computer, and music stores; electronics and appliances; florists; furniture and
home furnishings; general merchandise stores; health and personal care stores; hobby, office
supplies, stationary and gift stores; specialty stores; sporting goods; and used merchandise
stores.
RIGHT-OF-WAY See public right-of-way.
SECTION LINE ROADS The following roads are section line roads within the Meridian Area of City Impact: McDermott,
Black Cat, Ten Mile, Liner, Meridian, Locust Grove, Eagle, Chinden, McMillan, Ustick,
Fairview, Franklin, Overland, Victory, and Amity. The term shall include other roadways that
follow surveying section lines as additional areas are added to the Meridian Area of City
Impact,
13 Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
SELF-SERVICE USES
Any commercial use in which there is not an attendant on the site during all hours of operation,
including but not limited to automated teller machines, laundromats, vehicle washing, fuel
sales facilities, and storage facilities.
SETBACK
The minimum required distance between the property line and the nearest structure, See
Figure 1,
SIDE PROPERTY LINE
See property line, side.
SIDE YARD
See yard, side.
SIGHT VISION TRIANGLE
See clear vision triangle.
SIGN
Any device, fixture, placard, or structure that uses any color, form, graphic, illumination,
symbol, or writing to advertise, announce the purpose of, or identify the purpose of a person or
entity, to communicate information of any kind to the public. See Figure 9.
SIGN, ABANDONED
1) A sign that no longer serves to advertise a bona fide business, lessor, owner, or activity
conducted or product available on the premises, where such sign is located. 2) An inoperable
reader board.
SIGN, ANIMATED
A sign, any visible part of which blinks, flashes, moves or changes color to depict action or
create a special effect or scene, regardless of the source of energy causing the animation,
except signs performing only a public service function indicating time, temperature, stock
market quotations or similar services.
SIGN, ARCHITECTURAL
Roof sign or projecting sign with no legs or braces that is an integral part of the building
BLADE
structure, rather than an object added to or standing on the building.
SIGN, AWNING
The copy area or separate background areas attached to an awning. To be computed as a
wall sign when awning is parallel to the wall.
SIGN, BACKGROUND
The area comprising the portion of a sign on which copy could be placed, not including the
AREA
supporting structure. When computing the area of sign background, only the face or faces that
may be seen from one direction at one time shall be considered.
SIGN, BANNER
Any lightweight fabric or similar material, usually with a message attached, that is mounted to
a pole, building or other on-site structure. Flags, as herein described, shall not be considered
banner signs,
SIGN, BILLBOARD
A non -point-of-sale sign that advertises a business, organization, event, person, place or thing
and that is typically located adjacent to a state or interstate highway right-of-way.
SIGN, CENTER
A freestanding sign allowed as part of the planned sign program. See Section 11-3D-9 of this
Title.
SIGN, CHANGEABLE See sign, readerboard.
PANEL
SIGN, CONSTRUCTION Any temporary sign located upon a property or construction site with a valid and active
building permit and generally used for the purpose of identifying the participants, type, time,
and reason for construction.
SIGN, COPY Any combination of letters, numbers, or logos (identifying print) that is intended to inform,
direct, or otherwise transmit information.
SIGN, COPY AREA The area of the sign occupied by copy. It is computed by measuring the area enclosed by
straight lines drawn to enclose the extremities of the copy.
14 Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
SIGN, DIRECTIONAL A sign that foremost contains words such as "entrance," "enter," "exit," "in," 'but," or
characters indicating traffic directions and used either in conjunction with such words or
separately_
SIGN, FREESTANDING
A sign whose background or copy area is wholly supported by a column, pole, foundation,
pedestal or other support structure in or upon the ground and that is independent from any
structure or other structure.
SIGN, HEIGHT OF
The distance measured vertically from the adjacent street grade as measured from the top of
curb (or edge of pavement where no curb exists) to the highest point of the sign or visual
appurtenances, The height of any landscape berm or other structure erected to support or
ornament the sign shall be measured as part of the sign height. For residential subdivision
identification signs, sign height applies only to that portion of a structure which is physically
supporting the sign background area. Other architectural elements primarily related to the
entry feature are not regulated as part of the sign height.
SIGN, HANGING
See sign, under canopy.
SIGN, HOLIDAY OR
Temporary signs in nature of decorations, clearly incidental to and customarily associated with
DECORATION
any national, local or religious holiday.
SIGN, ILLUMINATED
A sign that uses a source of light for illumination,
SIGN, A sign, sign structure, or use of a sign lawfully existing prior to the effective date of this Title
NONCONFORMING but that does not now conform to the dimensional standards for the district in which it is
located.
SIGN, OFF -PREMISES A sign that is not related to the property upon which it is located or to the activity being
conducted thereon.
SIGN, ORIENTATION The placement of a sign in accord with its primary visibility from a particular location.
SIGN, PERMANENT Any sign intended and constructed to be long term in nature.
SIGN, POLE COVER Decorative structure or treatment that encloses the support structure of a freestanding sign.
SIGN, PROJECTING A sign other than a wall sign, that projects from and is supported entirely by a wall of a building
or other structure.
SIGN, PROJECTION The distance by which a sign extends over public property or beyond the building line
SIGN, PUBLIC SERVICE A. sign that provides general public service information such as time, date, temperature,
INFORMATION weather, directional information and other non-commercial messages of interest to the
traveling public,
SIGN, READERBOARD A sign on which copy is changed. Copy can be changed manually or automatically. Also
known as a sign, changeable panel. Automated readerboards may also be classified as
animated signs.
SIGN, REVOLVING OR Any sign that incorporates movement of the structure or any portion thereof.
OSCILLATING
SIGN, ROOF Any sign erected and constructed wholly on and over the roof of a building, supported by the
roof structure or extending vertically above the highest portion of the roof. A mansard roof is
treated as a wall.
SIGN, SCROLLING Text or graphics usually as part of an electronic reader board that moves up or down or across
a display screen in a consistent and predictable manner.
15 Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
SIGN STRUCTURE Any structure that is specifically designed to support a sign, including decorative cover.
SIGN, SUBDIVISION A permanent structure intended to identify a subdivision that incorporates design elements
IDENTIFICATION and building materials consistent with the architecture and theme of the subdivision buildings
and features.
SIGN, TEMPORARY
Any sign not permanently mounted or secured, displayed solely for short-term announcement,
STORAGE FACILITY,
message or advertisement and for infrequent and limited time periods, (See Section 11-3D-6
SELF-SERVICE
TEMPORARY SIGNS of this Title for specific types of temporary signs.)
SIGN, UNDER CANOPY
A sign suspended below the overhang or roof of a canopy
SIGN, WALL
Any sign that is attached, erected, or painted on the exterior wall of a building with the
exposed face of the sign parallel to the wall. Also known as a fascia sign.
SIGN, WINDOW
Any sign, picture, symbol, or combination thereof, designed to communicate information about
an activity, business, commodity, event, sale, or service, that is placed inside a window or
upon the windowpanes or glass and is visible from the exterior of the window.
SINGLE-FAMILY
See dwelling, single-family attached.
ATTACHED DWELLING
Plan for Ada County by the Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho or the City of
SINGLE-FAMILY See dwelling, single-family detached.
DETACHED DWELLING
SITE PLAN A plan, to scale, showing existing and proposed uses, structures and improvements proposed
for a property as required by the regulations involved. Such plans Include property lines,
streets, driveways, parking, building sites, landscaping, open space, and utility easements.
SOIL STABILIZATION The state of having sufficient vegetation and gradual slopes to prevent soil erosion and
sedimentation onto adjacent features such as sidewalks, driveways, parking areas, lawns, or
water bodies.
SOLID WASTE The use of a site for the collection and temporary storage of solid waste for subsequent
TRANSFER STATION transport to a permanent disposal location.
STATE The State of Idaho.
STORAGE FACILITIES, The use of a site where equipment, inventory, supplies, or other similar items are stored
OUTDOOR
including a building with a roof but without walls completely enclosing the building,
STORAGE FACILITY,
A structure or group of structures with a controlled access and fenced compound that contains
SELF-SERVICE
individual, compartmentalized, or controlled units that are leased or sold to store material
(including, but not limited to, goods, wares, merchandise, or vehicles,)
STORY
The term story shall be as defined by Meridian City Building Code as set forth in Title 1 O,
Chapter 1, of the Meridian City Municipal Code.
STREET
A private or public right-of-way that provides vehicular access to adjacent properties. The term
street shall include, but not be limited to, a road, thoroughfare, parkway, avenue, boulevard,
lane, place, or highway.
STREET, ARTERIAL
A street designated as a major or minor arterial on the most recent Regional Transportation
Plan for Ada County by the Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho or the City of
Meridian Comprehensive Plan that carries high-volume through traffic on a continuous route.
16 Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
STREET, COLLECTOR
A street designated as a major or minor collector on the most recent Regional Transportation
Plan for Ada County adopted by the Community Planning Association of Southwest Idaho or
STRUCTURE
the City of Meridian Comprehensive Plan that carries traffic from local streets to arterials.
STREET, CUL-DE-SAC
A dead-end street provided with a turnaround at its terminus.
STREET, ENTRYWAY
Arterial roadways that introduce both visitors and residents to the City of Meridian, as defined
CORRIDOR
by the City's Comprehensive Plan,
STREET FRONTAGE
The distance measured along the property line, which fronts upon a street or alley or other
SUPER GRAPHICS
principal thoroughfare that provides vehicular access to a property.
STREET ISLAND
A landscape island located within or surrounded by public street right-of-way.
STREET KNUCKLE
An expansion of a local street providing access to abutting properties.
STREET, LOCAL
A street used primarily for access to abutting properties.
STREET, PUBLIC
A street that is subject to the jurisdiction of the Idaho Department of Transportation (ITD) or
SWALE, STORMWATER
the Transportation Authority (ACHD).
STREET, PRIVATE
A roadway that is not dedicated to the public that is not a part of the public highway system,
TEMPORARY USE
and that is approved pursuant to Chapter 3, Article F. PRIVATE STREET REQUIREMENTS of this
Title.
STROBE LIGHT
An attention -getting device that emits a repetitive light; independent of, or as part of a sign. For
the purposes of this Code. a strobe light shall not be considered an animated sign.
STRUCTURE
See building.
SUBDIVISION
1) The division of a lot or parcel of land, into two or more lots for the purpose of conveyance of
ownership or for building development; and the recorded plat thereof; or 2) The platting of one
lot or parcel for the purposes of remedying a prior illegal division of property or as deemed
appropriate by the Director and/or City Engineer,
SUPER GRAPHICS
Any abstract mosaic, mural, painting, graphic art technique or any combination thereof that
does not contain any copy, business logo or other visual elements intended to advertise.
SURETY
Cash, or cash equivalent, including an irrevocable letter of credit or a certificate of deposit,
guaranteeing the performance of the terms and conditions of a development approval.
SWALE
A shallow, grassy depression.
SWALE, STORMWATER
A broad, shallow channel covered with erosion -resistant vegetation and used to conduct,
infiltrate, and pretreated surface runoff.
TEMPORARY USE
The use of a site on a seasonal basis and for a short period of time. The use includes, but is
not limited to, Christmas tree lots, construction buildings, firework stands, food service
vehicles, model homes, produce stands, snow cone stands, and pumpkin stands.
TERMINAL, FREIGHT OR
The use of a site where freight brought by truck or rail is transferred. The use may include the
TRUCK
storage or repair of trucks or rail cars. The use excludes the long-term or permanent storage
of freight.
THROUGH PROPERTY
See property, through.
17 Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
TOWER, LATTICE
A tower made of an open metal framework consisting of strips of metal overlapped in a pattern
to achieve strength and height.
TOWER, MONOPOLE
A cylindrical -shaped pole usually made of steel that has no visible break in shape or
appearance, other than tapering, which is secured to the ground in a manner to stand
vertically upright.
TOWNHOUSE DWELLING
See dwelling, townhouse.
TRANSPORTATION
The Ada County Highway District, the Idaho Transportation Department, the Valley Regional
AUTHORITY
Transit and any other agency that may succeed to their powers or establish public jurisdiction
in the field of transportation, The term transportation authority shall be liberally construed to
include all the adopted, approved, or certified plans, rules, regulations, statutes, or laws of the
transportation authority.
TREES,
The classes of trees are defined for the purposes of this Title by the publication Tree Selection
CLASS I, II, III
Guide for Streets and Landscapes Throughout Idaho by the Urban Forestry Unit of the Boise
Parks and Recreation Department (latest edition). In general, Class I trees are smaller
ornamental trees, Class II trees are medium/large trees appropriate for street tree planting,
and Class III trees are very large trees.
TRUCK TERMINAL
See terminal, freight or truck.
UNPLATTED
A parcel that is not included in any subdivision of record in Ada County.
UP -LIGHTING
Lighting that is directed in such a manner as to shine light rays onto a building surface.
URBAN SERVICE
The land area within an area of city impact where urban services are available or planned, as
PLANNING AREA
provided and described in the Comprehensive Plan and designated on the adopted area of
city impact boundary map.
USE
The term use shall include the specific purposes for which an area or structure is arranged,
designed, constructed, altered, converted, rented, leased, or intended to be maintained and/or
occupied.
USE, CHANGE OF
A change of use shall include, but not be limited to, an expansion, alteration, or change in
occupancy resulting in a more intense use of a site, such as additional dwelling units, gross
floor area, seating capacity,
UTILITY
Electrical, natural gas water, wastewater, telephone and cable services and facilities.
VARIANCE
A relief from development standards as allowed by Chapter 5, ADMINISTRATION of this Title and
as enabled by Idaho Code §67.6516.
VEHICLE
The term vehicle shall include, but not limited to, automobile, truck, motorcycle, recreational
vehicle, personal recreation item or as otherwise defined in Idaho Code §49-123 which
includes every device in, upon, or by which any person or property is or may be transported or
drawn (e.g., travel trailers) upon a public highway, excepting devices moved by human power
or used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks.
VEHICLE, COMMERCIAL
Any currently licensed and operable motor vehicle with a gross vehicle weight rating over
26,000 pounds and as defined by Idaho Code §49-123.
VEHICLE IMPOUND YARD
The use of a site for the temporary storage of vehicles to be claimed by the owners.
VEHICLE, INOPERABLE
A vehicle that cannot move under its own power or does not meet the minimum legal
requirements necessary for the motor vehicle to be operated in a safe and lawful manner upon
the roadways and highways in the State of Idaho, as set forth in Idaho Code §49.
18 Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
VEHICLE REPAIR, MAJOR The use of a site for major vehicle rebuilding or reconditioning. The use includes engine rebuilding;
major reconditioning of worn or damaged motor vehicles; and collision service, including body,
frame, or fender straightening or repair.
VEHICLE REPAIR, MINOR The use of a site for minor vehicle maintenance and repair. The use includes vehicle repair
garages, muffler shops, tire sales and installations, transmission shops, and wheel and brake
shops
VEHICLE SALES OR The sale, trade, or lease of new or used vehicles in operating condition and any repair work or
RENTAL AND SERVICE minor service. Repair work or minor service shall include, but not be limited to, replacement of
parts (e.g., tires, shocks, brakes, mufflers, windshields, radiators, upholstery), oil change,
minor engine repair, tune-up, and accessory sales of replacement parts. Any operation
specified under vehicle, major repair is excluded.
VEHICLE WASHING The use of a site where a vehicle may be washed, waxed, detailed, or vacuumed by the owner
FACILITY of the vehicle or employees on the site.
VEHICLE WRECKING OR Any area, lot, land, or parcel where two or more vehicles without current registration or two or
JUNKYARD more inoperable or dismantled vehicles that are not in operating condition (or parts thereof)
are stored, dumped, dismantled, partially dismantled or wrecked; or as defined by Idaho Code
§40-111, the use of a site that is maintained, operated, or used for storing, keeping, buying, or
selling junk, or for the maintenance or operation of an automobile graveyard, garbage dumps
and sanitary fills. The following uses are excluded from this definition: agricultural equipment
on a farm as herein defined and vehicles stored or dismantled within a completely enclosed
structure.
VERTICALLY The use of a multi story structure for residential and nonresidential uses where the different
INTEGRATED uses are planned as a unified, complementary whole and functionally integrated to share
RESIDENTIAL PROJECT vehicular and pedestrian access and parking.
VETERINARY OFFICE See animal care facility.
VISION TRIANGLE See clear vision triangle
WALKWAY A public way for non -vehicular use only, whether or not along the side of a road
WALL AREA Wall area is defined as the total square footage of an exterior wall and determined by
multiplying the total lineal elevation of the building (or the leased portion thereof) by the
distance from the roof line to pedestrian grade.
WAREHOUSE AND A structure used primarily for storing materials and/or freight, including, but not limited to,
STORAGE goods, wares, merchandise, or vehicles.
(NAICS CODE 493)
WATER AMENITY
Any body of water either natural or manmade, which either exists or is proposed to be
improved as a part of the development, in which its banks in all places adjacent to and located
on said development are no steeper than one foot (1') vertical per every four feet (4')
horizontally (4:1) and which has a depth and velocity in all places adjacent to and located on
said development such that the product of the maximum depth (feet) multiplied by the peak
velocity (feet per second) does not exceed four (4).
WHOLESALE SALES
The use of a site for selling, distributing, or brokering merchandise to retailers, business users,
or other wholesalers. This use can include incidental retail sales to the general public.
WIRELESS
A steel monopole, guy wire tower, lattice tower or other similar structure designed to support
COMMUNICATION
directional antennae, parabolic dishes or antennae, microwave dishes, in addition to
FACILITY
associated ground equipment and other similar equipment used in the wireless
communications industry.
19 Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
XERISCAPE
Landscaping that is characterized by the use of vegetation that is drought tolerant or of low
water use in character.
YARD, STREET
An area extending across the full width of the property and lying between the front property
line and the nearest line of a principal structure, See Figure 1.
YARD, REAR
An area extending across the full width of the property and lying between the rear property line
and the nearest line of the principal structure. See Figure 1.
YARD, REQUIRED
An area that extends along a property line to a depth or width specified in the setback
regulations for the district in which the property is located. See Figure 1.
YARD, SIDE
An area extending from the front yard to the rear yard between the side property line and the
nearest line of the principal structure. See Figure 1.
11-1A-2: FIGURE 1 AND FIGURE 2: See following pages.
20 Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
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FIGURE 2: TYPES OF DWELLING UNITS
— Single family detached
or manufactured home
j ❑ ❑ j (� 1 structure
j ❑ j _ J 1 property
1 dwelling unit
i...—.,.^_, Duplex
1 structure
1 property
j ❑ ❑ a 2 dwelling units
Single family attached
I I b 1 structure
j
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❑❑❑ j
E -J 2 properties
j ❑ ❑ j - p 2 dwelling units
- Townhouse
j j I j b 1 structure
j [:3❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ -13 properties
C,❑ ❑ 0 3 or more dwelling units
r--- ------ --- r I Multifamily
j b 1 structure
1 property
❑ ❑ ❑ ❑ I 0 3 or more dwelling units
I j
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1 Chapter 1 Article A. DEFINITIONS
6/2/05
CHAPTER1
GENERAL REGULATIONS
ARTICLE B. NONCONFORMING PROPERTY, USE OR STRUCTURE
ARTICLE B.
SECTIONS:
11-16-1:
PURPOSE
11-113-2:
APPLICABILITY
11-113-3:
NONCONFORMING PROPERTY
11-1B-4:
NONCONFORMING USE
11-1B-5:
NONCONFORMING STRUCTURE
11-16-6:
VIOLATIONS
11-113-1: PURPOSE: The purpose of this Article is to allow any nonconforming
property, use, or structure that lawfully existed prior to the effective date [XX] of this
Title to continue until they are removed, but not to encourage their continuation. It is
further the intent of this Article that nonconforming uses or structures shall not
expand or extend the nonconforming aspect of the property, use, or structure,
unless approved subject to a conditional use permit as set forth in the regulations of
Chapter 5 ARTICLE B. SPECIFIC PROVISIONS of this Title.
11-1B-2: APPLICABILITY: These regulations shall apply to any lawfully
existing nonconforming property, use, or structure in any district, except: In the
event that a property, use, or structure that was deemed nonconforming under past
regulations now complies with the standards of this title, such property, use, or
structure shall be deemed conforming.
11-113-3: NONCONFORMING PROPERTY:
A. The nonconforming property shall not be diminished in size.
B. Any property reduced by governmental action that reduces an existing
conforming parcel below the required property size shall be deemed as a
conforming property for the purpose of development. To be deemed a
conforming property, the owner or applicant shall submit documents to the
Director proving the following:
1. The property was in compliance with the minimum property size requirement
of the applicable district prior to the decrease in property size; and
2. The decrease in property size was caused by acquisition through
prescription, purchase, or other means by the Transportation Authority, a
utility company or corporation under the jurisdiction of the Idaho Public
Utilities Commission, or other local, State, or Federal agency.
11-1B-4: NONCONFORMING USE:
Chapter 1 Article B. NONCONFORMING PROPERTY, USE OR STRUCTURE
6/2/05
A. The nonconforming use may continue as long as the use remains lawful and
is not expanded or extended, subject to the following provisions:
Alteration: No existing structure containing a nonconforming use may be
enlarged, extended, constructed, reconstructed, moved or structurally
altered except; (a) through the approval of a conditional use permit in accord
with the procedures set forth in Chapter 5 Article B SPECIFIC PROVISIONS of
this Title; or (b) where the use of the structure is changed to a conforming
use.
2. Extension: A nonconforming use may be extended to occupy additional land
area only through the approval of a conditional use permit in accord with the
procedures set forth in Chapter 5 Article B. SPECIFIC PROVISIONS of this Title.
B. If a nonconforming use has ceased for twelve (12) consecutive months or
has been replaced with a conforming use, the nonconforming use shall be
deemed abandoned and shall not be reestablished.
C. A nonconforming use or structure housing a nonconforming use that is
damaged more than fifty percent (50%) of its current assessed taxable value
by fire, flood, explosion, wind, earthquake, war, riot, calamity, or other
catastrophic event, shall comply with this Title upon reconstruction. If the
damage to the nonconforming use or structure housing the nonconforming
use is fifty percent (50%) or less of its current assessed taxable value, the
nonconforming use may continue, provided that the nonconforming use
commences within twelve (12) months of the event.
D. Uses housed within structures listed on the National Register of Historic
Places shall be exempt from the regulations of this Section.
11-1B-5: NONCONFORMING STRUCTURE:
A. Nonconforming structures may be enlarged, repaired or modified, provided
that the additions or modifications to the structure conform to the
requirements of this Title.
B. A nonconforming structure that is damaged more than seventy-five percent
(75%) of its current assessed taxable value by fire, flood, explosion, wind,
earthquake, war, riot, calamity, or other catastrophic event, shall comply with
this Title upon restoration or reconstruction. If the damage to the
nonconforming structures is seventy-five percent (75%) or less of its current
assessed taxable value, the structure may be restored or reconstructed,
provided that restoration or reconstruction commences within twelve (12)
months of the event.
C. Structures listed on the National Register of Historic Places shall be exempt
from the regulations of this Section.
Chapter 1 Article B. NONCONFORMING PROPERTY, USE OR STRUCTURE
6/2/05
11-1 B-6: VIOLATIONS: Properties, uses, or structures that were in violation of
previous land use regulations and that remain a violation under this Title shall be
considered continuing violations.
Chapter 1 Article B. NONCONFORMING PROPERTY, USE OR STRUCTURE
6/2/05
CHAPTER
DISTRICT REGULATIONS
SECTIONS:
11-2-1: ZONING DISTRICTS ESTABLISHED
11-2-2: OFFICIAL ZONING MAP
11-2-1: ZONING DISTRICTS ESTABLISHED: For the purpose of this Title,
the incorporated territory of the City of Meridian, Idaho, is divided into the following
districts:
DISTRICTS
RESIDENTIAL
Map Symbol
Low -Density Residential District
R-2
Medium low -Density Residential District
R-4
Medium -Density Residential District
R-8
Medium High -Density Residential District
R-15
High -Density Residential District
R-40
COMMERCIAL
Neighborhood Business District C -N
Community Business District C -C
General Retail and Service Commercial District C -G
Limited Office District L -O
INDUSTRIAL
Light Industrial District
I -L
Heavy Industrial District
I -H
TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD
Old Town
O -T
Traditional Neighborhood Center
TN -C
Traditional Neighborhood Residential
TN -R
11-2-2: OFFICIAL ZONING MAP: The boundaries of the districts are shown
on the Official Zoning Map of the City of Meridian. The Official Zoning Map is made
a part of this Title, as well as such other map or maps that are duly adopted. Said
Official Zoning Maps properly attested, shall be placed and remain on file in the
office of the Meridian City Clerk.
Chapter 2 DISTRICT REGULATIONS
6/2/05
CHAPTER
DISTRICT REGULATIONS
ARTICLE A. RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
ARTICLE A.
SECTIONS:
11- 2A-1:
PURPOSE
11- 2A-2:
ALLOWED USES
11- 2A-3:
STANDARDS
11- 2A-1: PURPOSE: The purpose of the residential districts is to provide for a
range of housing opportunities consistent with the Meridian Comprehensive Plan.
Connection to the City of Meridian water and sewer systems is a requirement for all
residential districts. Residential districts are distinguished by the allowable density of
dwelling units per acre and corresponding housing types that can be
accommodated within the density range. Residential land uses are also allowed
within the O -T, TN -C, and TN -R districts as set forth in Chapter 3 Article D.
TABLE 11-2A-1: MAXIMUM GROSS DENSITY IN THE RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
11- 2A-2: ALLOWED USES: Table 11-2A-2 lists principal permitted (P),
accessory (A), and conditional (C), or prohibited (--), uses.
A. Permitted uses and accessory uses shall be reviewed in accord with Chapter
4 specific use standards of this Title.
B. Conditional uses shall be approved in accord with the procedures and
regulations for conditional uses set forth in Chapter 5 administration and the
specific use standards in Chapter 4 specific use standards of this Title.
C. Any use not explicitly listed in Table 11-2A-2 is prohibited in all residential
districts.
D. Uses that are listed as PIC or A/C may be subject to a conditional use permit
depending on if the use is in accord with the specific use standards as set
forth in Chapter 4 specific use standards.
E. Interpretation of the inclusion or exclusion of allowed uses shall be made by
the Director and based on the Director's findings in review of the criteria
established in Chapter 1 general regulations of this Title.
Chapter 2 Article A. RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
ODENSITY PER ACRE
Low-densityresidential district R-2
2
Medium low-density residential district R-4
4
-We-diumdensity residential district R-8
8
Medium high-density residential district R-15
15
High-density residential district R-40
40
11- 2A-2: ALLOWED USES: Table 11-2A-2 lists principal permitted (P),
accessory (A), and conditional (C), or prohibited (--), uses.
A. Permitted uses and accessory uses shall be reviewed in accord with Chapter
4 specific use standards of this Title.
B. Conditional uses shall be approved in accord with the procedures and
regulations for conditional uses set forth in Chapter 5 administration and the
specific use standards in Chapter 4 specific use standards of this Title.
C. Any use not explicitly listed in Table 11-2A-2 is prohibited in all residential
districts.
D. Uses that are listed as PIC or A/C may be subject to a conditional use permit
depending on if the use is in accord with the specific use standards as set
forth in Chapter 4 specific use standards.
E. Interpretation of the inclusion or exclusion of allowed uses shall be made by
the Director and based on the Director's findings in review of the criteria
established in Chapter 1 general regulations of this Title.
Chapter 2 Article A. RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
;yra111.7
TABLE 11-2A-2: ALLOWED USES IN THE RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
11-2A-3: STANDARDS: The standards for development in all residential
districts shall be as follows:
A. Minimum property size:
1. Each property shall be of sufficient size to meet the minimum setbacks as
established in this section and dwelling unit size requirements in accord with
Sections 11 -2A -3.F of this Title.
2 Chapter 2 Article A. RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
IpENitAL
1118"
R-15
R•46
Arts, entertainment or recreation facility, outdoors*
-
C
C
C
Cemetery*
-
C
C
C
C
Church or placeof religious worship*
C
C
C
Civic, social or fraternal organizations*
C
C
C
Day care center*
--
C
C
P
P
Day care, family*
A
A
A
C
Day care, group*
C
P
P
Dwelling, multifamily* 1
-
C
P
Dwelling, secondary*
A
A
A
A
A
Dwelling, single-family attached
-
C
P
P
P
Dwelling, single family detached
P
P
P
P
A/C
Dwelling, townhouse
-
C
P
P
C
Dwelling, two-family duplex
-
C
P
P
C
Education Institution, Private*
C
C
C
C
Education Institution, Public*
C
C
P/C
P/C
Home, manufactured or mobile subdivision
-
C
C
C
Home occupation*
A
A
A
A
A
Laundromat*
A
A/C
Manufactured Home Park
-
C
Multifamily development* 1
-
C
C
Nursing or residential care facility*
C
C
C
Parking Facility
C
Parks, public and private
P
P
P
P
P
Personal or professional service
A
Public or quasi -public use*
-
C .
C
C
Public, infrastructure
C
C
C
C
C
Public utility, minor
P
P
P
P
P
Recreation vehicle park
-
-
C
Restaurant
A
Stora a facili , outside*
A
A
A
A
A
Storage facili , self-service*
A
A
A
A
A
Temporary use
A
A
A
A
A
Vertical integrated residentialproject*
-
--
--
C
C
Wireless communication facility, amateur radio antenna
A
A
A
A
A
Wireless communication facility, stealth
-
--
-
P
P
*Iridis;40that ark suit atoPot, USE.WANDARDS in
+J;iI ince may tib aw in tlx: R-� and R-8 Land U$e
OOP included in a Planned Unit
11-2A-3: STANDARDS: The standards for development in all residential
districts shall be as follows:
A. Minimum property size:
1. Each property shall be of sufficient size to meet the minimum setbacks as
established in this section and dwelling unit size requirements in accord with
Sections 11 -2A -3.F of this Title.
2 Chapter 2 Article A. RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
2. Minimum property size shall be determined exclusive of land that is used for
the conveyance of irrigation water, drainage, creek or river flows unless: 1)
the water is conveyed through pipe or tile; and 2) included as part of a utility
easement that generally runs along the property lines.
3. When two (2) or more parcels of land, each of which is of inadequate area
and dimension to qualify for a permitted use under the requirements of the
district in which the parcels are located, are held in one ownership, they shall
be used as one property for such use.
B. Minimum street frontage:
1. Properties with street frontages on cul-de-sacs or at approximately a 90*
angle shall be a minimum of thirty feet (30') measured as a chord
measurement.
2. Street knuckles shall be separated from through traffic by a landscape
island. Properties with frontages on such knuckles shall be a minimum of
thirty feet (30') measured as a chord measurement.
3. Street frontage for two (2) properties sharing a common drive shall be a
minimum of fifteen feet (15') for each property.
4. Street frontage for three (3) or four (4) properties sharing a common drive
shall be a minimum of ten feet (10') for each property.
5. Street frontage for flag properties that do not share a common drive shall be
a minimum of thirty feet (30').
C. Corner lot setbacks: Corner properties shall have one (1) interior side
setback and one (1) rear setback.
D. Encroachments allowed in any setback:
1. Open structures such as porches, canopies, balconies, platforms, covered
patios, cornices, eaves or other projections, which do not increase the
volume of space enclosed by the building and do not project into any
required setback by more than two feet (2').
2. Chimneys, pop -out windows, direct vent gas fireplaces, entertainment
centers, window seats and other projections which do not increase the
usable floor area and do not exceed eight feet (8') in width may project up to
two feet (2') into any required setback.
3. One detached accessory building that is less than two hundred (200) square
feet in area and eight feet (8') or less in height shall be allowed in the
required rear yard.
3 Chapter 2 Article A. RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
14*1XIN
E. Maximum height limit:
1. The maximum height limitations shall not apply to the following architectural
features not intended for human occupation: spire or steeple, belfry, cupola,
chimney. Such architectural features shall have a maximum height limit of
twenty feet (20') as measured from the roof line.
2. The maximum height limitations shall not apply to the following: amateur
radio antenna; bridge tower; fire and hose tower; observation tower; power
line tower; smokestack; water tank or tower; ventilator; windmill; wireless
communication facility, or other commercial or personal tower and/or
antenna structure; or other appurtenances usually required to be placed
above the level of the ground and not intended for human occupancy.
3. Notwithstanding other height limitations as set forth in this Chapter, the
maximum height for EDUCATION FACILITIES SHALL BE 40'.
4. No exception shall be allowed to the height limit where the height of any
structures will constitute a hazard to the safe landing and take -off of aircraft
in an established airport.
F. Living Space: Excluding the garage, all detached residential dwelling units in
the R-2 and R-4 Districts shall meet minimum living space size requirements
in accord with Sections 11-2A-4 and 11-2A-5.
G. Roof Design: All residential dwelling structures shall have a pitched roof not
less than three feet (3') in height for each twelve feet (12') in length.
H. Drainage:
In no case shall a development propose less than a five-foot (5') setback
adjacent to a property that is not part of the development application.
2. Properties shall provide adequate area to maintain drainage on the site.
11-2A-4: LOW-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT (R-2): Dimensional
Standards for development in the R-2 Residential District shall be as follows:
4 Chapter 2 Article A. RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
TABLE 11-2A-3: DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS FOR THE R-2 DISTRICT
.S`FANPARD
REQUIREMENT
Minimum ro ert size/DU` in square feet
12,000
Minimum street frontage in feet
80
Rear setback in feet
15
Interior side setback in feet
7.5/sto
Street setback"
20
Collector
25
Maximum building height in feet
35
Minimum living area insquare feet
1,500
Minimum ground floor area for multisto units insquare feet
800
', alrelling uni( ,
ea$ured front back a(' idewaik.,
25
11-2A-5: MEDIUM LOW-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT (R-4):
Dimensional Standards for development in the R-4 Residential District shall be as
follows:
TABLE 11-2A-4: DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS FOR THE R-4 DISTRICT
Irl`FJ1M71AI1
REQUIREMENT
Minimum property Size /DU' insquare feet
8,000
Minimum street frontage in feet
60
Rear setback in feet
15
Interior side setback in feet
5
Street setback" to garage (in feet)
Local
20
Collector
25
Street setback" to living area (in feet)
Local
15
Collector
25
Maximum building hei ht in feet
35
Minimum livinginsquare feet
Detached
11400
Attached
800
Minimum qround floor area for multi stoy
units insquare feet
800
unit
hilted from back of Wealk:
5 Chapter 2 Article A. RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
11-2A-6: MEDIUM -DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT (R-8): Dimensional
Standards for development in the R-8 Residential District shall be as follows:
TABLE 11-2A-5: DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS FOR THE R-8 DISTRICT
114 STANDARD
REQUIREMENT
Minimum property Size /DU* insquare feet
2,400
SF** detached DU* with garage facing the front
property line
5,000
SF** detached DU* with shared driveway or alley
loaded garage
4,000
SF** attached & two-family duplex DU*
25
4,000
Any comer-PToperty
10
5,000
Minimum street frontage—SF detached DU n feet
Side setback
4
with garage facing street
50
Maximum building height in feet
with shared driveway or alley loaded garage
40
40
Minimum street frontage—SF attached & two-family du
lex DU in feet
40
Street setback*** to garage (in feet)
Local
20
Collector
25
Street setback*`* to living area (in feet)
Local
15
Collector
25
Side setback
4
Rear setback
12
Maximum building height in feet
35
ding, unit
Ingle family
rad from W.of W
11-2A-7: MEDIUM HIGH-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT (R-15):
Dimensional Standards for development in the R-15 Residential District shall be as
follows:
TABLE 11-2A-6: DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS FOR THE R-15 DISTRICT
'' "DARD
REQUIREMENT
Minimum property Size /DU* insquare feet
2,400
Minimum street frontage
0
Street setback** to garage (in feet)
Local
20
Collector
25
Street setback** to living area (in feet)
Local
10
Collector
20
Side setback
4
Rear setback
12
Maximum building height in feet
40
*Wdw ting unik
cured from hack
6 Chapter 2 Article A. RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
yND197
11-2A-8: HIGH-DENSITY RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT (R-40): Dimensional
Standards for development in the R-40 Residential District shall be as follows:
TABLE 11-2A-7: DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS FOR THE R-40 DISTRICT
1 1'ORQ
`i.` -. ""
REQUIREMENT
Minimum property Size/DU* in square feet
1,200
Minimum street frontage in feet
0
Rear setback in feet
15
Interior side setback in feet
5/story
Street setback to garage (in feet)
Local
20
Collector
25
Street setback" to living area (in feet)
Local
10
Collector
20
Maximum building height in feet
60
* f17-:dwelllhg unit"
****red from back of ' idewak
7 Chapter 2 Article A. RESIDENTIAL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
CHAPTER
DISTRICT REGULATIONS
ARTICLE B. COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS
ARTICLE B.
SECTIONS:
11-28-1:
PURPOSE
11-2B-2:
ALLOWED USES
11-213-3:
STANDARDS
11-2121-1: PURPOSE: The purpose of the Commercial Districts is to provide for
the retail and service needs of the community in accord with the Meridian
Comprehensive Plan. Four Districts are designated which differ in the size and
scale of commercial structures accommodated in the district, the scale and mix of
allowed commercial uses, and the location of the district in proximity to streets and
highways:
TABLE 11-2B-1: PURPOSE AND ALLOWED USE BY COMMERCIAL DISTRICT
OISTRICT
ALLOWED USES LV
, LOCATION
NEIGHBORHOOD BUSINESS
SMALL SCALE CONVENIENCE
ACCESS TO ARTERIAL OR
DISTRICT -(C -N)
COLLECTOR
COMMUNITY BUSINESS
LARGER SCALE AND BROADER
ACCESS TO ARTERIALS OR
DISTRICT (C -C)
MIX OF RETAIL, OFFICE, AND
NONRESIDENTIAL COLLECTORS
SERVICE USES
GENERAL RETAIL AND SERVICE
LARGEST SCALE AND
CLOSE PROXIMITY AND/OR
COMMERCIAL DISTRICT (C -G)
BROADEST MIX OF RETAIL,
ACCESS TO INTERSTATE OR
OFFICE, SERVICE, AND LIGHT
ARTERIAL INTERSECTIONS
INDUSTRIAL USES
LIMITED OFFICE DISTRICT (L-0)
OFFICE CENTERS AND
ACCESS TO ARTERIAL OR
ADAPTIVE REUSE OF
COLLECTOR
RESIDENTIAL STRUCTURES
11-2B-2: ALLOWED USES: Table 11-281-2 lists principal permitted (P),
accessory (A), and conditional (C) or prohibited (--) uses within each commercial
district.
A. Permitted uses and accessory uses shall be reviewed in accord with Chapter
4 specific use standards of this Title.
B. Conditional uses shall be approved in accord with the procedures and
regulations for conditional uses set forth in Chapter 5 administration and the
specific use standards in Chapter 4 specific use standards of this Title.
C. Any use not explicitly listed in Table 11-2B-1 is prohibited in all commercial
districts.
Chapter 2 Article B. COMMERICAL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
D. Uses that are listed as P/C or A/C may be subject to a conditional use permit
depending on if the use is in accord with the specific use standards as set
forth in Chapter 4 specific use standards.
E. Interpretation of the inclusion or exclusion of allowed uses shall be made by
the Director and based on the Director's findings in review of the criteria
established in Chapter 1 general regulations of this Title.
F. For uses that may fall into more than one category, the Director shall
determine the most appropriate category based on the more restrictive
standards.
TABLE 11-2B-2: ALLOWED USES IN THE COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS
uat
G -N
(C
C -G
L-0
Animal care facilit *
P
P
P
C
Artist studio*
P
P
P
Arts, entertainment or recreation facili , indoors*
P
P
P
C
Arts, entertainment or recreation facility, outdoors*
C
P
P
--
Arts, entertainment or recreation facility, outdoor
C
C
sta a or music venue
Building material, garden equipment and supplies*
C
P
P
--
Cemetery'
C
Church or place of religious worship*
P
P
p
P
Civic social or fraternal organizations*
C
C
C
C
Day care center*
A/C
A/C
A/C
P
Day care, famil *
A
A
A
A
Day care, group*
P
P
A
P
Drinking establishment*
C
C
C
Drive-through establishment*
A/C
A/C
A/C
Dwelling, multifamily
C
C
C
Education institution,private*
P
P
P
P
Education institution, ublic*
P
P
P
P
Equipment rental, sales, and service*
C
C
Financial institution*
P
P
P
P
Flex space*
_
P
P
Fuel sales facility*
C
P
P
Fuel sales facility, truck stop*
C
Health care or social services
P
P
P
P
Hospital*
--
C
C
C
Hotel and motel*
P/C
P/C
P/C
Industry, information*
P
P
P
C
Industry, light*
-
C
C
Laundromat*
P
P
P
C
Laund and dry cleaning
C
P
-
Mortuary
C
P
P
Nursery or urban farm*
C
P
P
C
Nursin or residential care facility*
C
C
C
Parking facility
C
C
P
C
Parks, public and private
P
p
p
P
Personal or professional service
P
P
I P
P
2 Chapter 2 Article B. COMMERICAL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
11-26-3: STANDARDS: The standards for all development in the commercial
districts shall be as follows:
A. Dimensional standards:
Table 11-213-3 shall be used for determining required setbacks, street and
residential landscape buffers and maximum building height standards for
development in each of the respective commercial districts. Sections 11-
2A.2 through A.3 set forth certain exceptions and additional clarification for
the dimensional standards.
3 Chapter 2 Article B. COMMERICAL DISTRICTS
Public or quasi -public use*
P
P
P
P
Public, infrastructure
C
C
C
C
Public utility, minor
P
P
P
P
Recreational vehicle park
--
P
Restaurant
P
P
P
C
Retail store
P
P
p
Storage facility, outside`
A
A
A
Storage facility, self-service*
C
C
Temporary use
A
A
A
A
Vehicle repair, minor*
A
P
P
Vehicle sales or rental and service*
C
P
--
Vehicle washing facility*_
C
P
P
Vertical integrated residential project*
C
P
P
C
Warehouse *
__
__
A
Wholesale sales
-
A
Wireless communication facility*
-
C
C
C
Wireless communication facility, amateur radio
antenna
A
A
A
A
Wireless communication facility, stealth
P
P
P
P
*Inds ' Oogs.that are subjeOt, ta,swift use.90ards in accord w
4,,
11-26-3: STANDARDS: The standards for all development in the commercial
districts shall be as follows:
A. Dimensional standards:
Table 11-213-3 shall be used for determining required setbacks, street and
residential landscape buffers and maximum building height standards for
development in each of the respective commercial districts. Sections 11-
2A.2 through A.3 set forth certain exceptions and additional clarification for
the dimensional standards.
3 Chapter 2 Article B. COMMERICAL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
TABLE 11--28-3: DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS IN THE COMMERCIAL DISTRICTS
DIEN I ,NAL STANDAR ",,,." :,P, '.: C*N C -G i:'
wC-G
L-0
Front setback in feet 20 0
20
Rear setback in feet 25 0
20
Interior side setback in feet 0
10/5"
Street landscape buffer in feet
Local
10
Collector
20
Arterial
25
Entyway corridor
35
Interstate
50
Landscape buffer to residential uses
in feet)-*
20 25
25 20
Maximum building height in feet
35 50
65 35
Maximum building size without design
standard approval as set forth in
11-3A 3 insquare feet
7,500 60,000
200,000 10,000
Parking Requirements
See Chapter 3 Article C. off-street
parking and loading requirements
Landscaping Requirements
See Chapter 3 Article B. landscaping re uirements
"i ll,*Wk5 6h0l1 be,rneasureq ,, ate righ"f--way for tho, ;pdass"on as shown on the adopted
7 dr►Plan.
,; ,„'�k.only alloi�d:;4M"tt';existing residarttial'�� i
t jscent prdp i. is i *, C hector shall d6* tii#i,t)1 ti9 aep pro, y designation based on
ristve Plan. i Mari:.
2. Encroachments allowed in any setback: Fire escapes may project a distance
not exceeding one (1) foot.
3. Maximum height ILimit:
a. The maximum height limitations shall not apply to the following
architectural features not intended for human occupation: spire or
steeple, belfry, cupola, chimney. Such architectural features shall have a
maximum height limit of twenty feet (20') as measured from the roof line.
b. The maximum height limitations shall not apply to the following: amateur
radio antenna; bridge tower; fire and hose tower; observation tower;
power line tower; smokestack; water tank or tower; ventilator; windmill;
wireless communication facility, or other commercial or personal tower
and/or antenna structure; or other appurtenances usually required to be
placed above the level of the ground and not intended for human
occupancy.
c. No exception shall be allowed to the height limit where the height of any
structures will constitute a hazard to the safe landing and take -off of
aircraft in an established airport.
4 Chapter 2 Article B. COMMERICAL DISTRICTS
[IMOR
d. Additional height not to exceed twenty percent (20%) of the maximum
height allowed for the district may be approved by the Director through
the Alternative Compliance procedures set forth in Chapter 5
ADMINISTRATION of this Title. Additional height shall be allowed when the
development provides ten percent (10%) of the building square feet in
open space, courtyards, patios, or other usable outdoor space available
for the employees and/or patrons of the structure, excluding required
setbacks and landscape buffers.
e. Additional height exceeding twenty percent (20%) of the maximum height
allowed for the district or when additional height is requested without
providing the required open space in accord with paragraph d. above,
requires approval through a conditional use permit.
Chapter 2 Article B. COMMERICAL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
[N:/_liIII :I:&a
DISTRICT REGULATIONS
ARTICLE C. INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS
ARTICLE C.
SECTIONS:
11- 2C-1:
PURPOSE
11- 2C-2:
ALLOWED USES
11- 2C-3:
STANDARDS
11- 2C-1: PURPOSE:
A. LIGHT INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT (I -L): The purpose of the I -L District is to
provide for convenient employment centers of light manufacturing, research
and development, warehousing, and distributing. In accord with the Meridian
Comprehensive Plan, the I -L District is intended to encourage the
development of industrial uses that are clean, quiet and free of hazardous or
objectionable elements and that are operated, entirely, or almost entirely,
within enclosed structures. Accessibility to transportation systems is a
requirement of this District.
B. HEAVY INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT (I -H) The purpose of the I -H District is to
provide for the existing manufacturing, warehousing and heavy distribution
centers that exist along major transportation corridors. In accord with the
Meridian Comprehensive Plan, these areas require buffering from residential
uses to mitigate the effects of noise, vibration, traffic, odor, dust, smoke or
glare that is typically associated with the uses allowed in the I -H District.
Accessibility to transportation systems is a requirement of this District.
11-2C-2 ALLOWED USES: Table 11-2C-1 lists principal permitted (P),
accessory (A), conditional (C), or prohibited (--) uses within each industrial district.
A. Permitted uses and accessory uses shall be reviewed in accord with Chapter
4 specific use standards of this Title.
B. Conditional uses shall be approved in accord with the procedures and
regulations for conditional uses set forth in Chapter 5 administration and the
specific use standards in Chapter 4 specific use standards of this Title.
C. Any use not explicitly listed in Table 11-2C-1 is prohibited in all industrial
districts.
D. Uses that are listed as P/C or A/C may be subject to a conditional use permit
depending on if the use is in accord with the specific use standards as set
forth in Chapter 4 specific use standards.
Chapter 2 Article C. INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
E. Interpretation of the inclusion or exclusion of allowed uses shall be made by
the Director and based on the Director's findings in review of the criteria
established in Chapter 1 general regulations of this Title.
F. For uses that may fall into more than one category, the Director shall
determine the most appropriate category based on the more restrictive
standards.
TABLE 11-2C-1: ALLOWED USES IN THE INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS
2 Chapter 2 Article C. INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS
Animal care facility*
P
Artist studio*
P
P
Arts, entertainment or recreation facility, indoors*
C
-
Arts, entertainment or recreation facility, outdoors*
C
-
Arts, entertainment or recreation facility, outdoor stage or music venue
C
Building material, garden equipment and supplies*
A
A
Cemete *
C
Church or place of religious worship*
C
C
Contractor'syard*
P
P
Day care center*
A
Day care, group*
A
Drive-through establishment*
A
Dwelling, single family detached
A
-
Entertainment establishment, adult*
C
Equipment rental, sales, and service*
P
P
Financial institution*
A
--
Flex space*
P
P
Food products processing*
P
P
Fuel sales facili *
A/C
A/C
Fuel sales facility, truck stop*
C
C
Industry, information*
P
Industry, light*
P
P
Industry, heavy*
P/C
Launda and dry cleaning
P
P
Mortuary
P
Nursery or urban farm*
C
Parkinq facility
P
P
Parks, public and private
C
C
Personal or professional service
A
Public or quasi -public use*
C
C
Public, infrastructure*
P
P
Public utility, minor
P
P
Public utility, major*
P
P
Public utility, transmission lines
P
P
Recreational vehicle park
C
---
Recycling center*
P/C
P/C
Restaurant
A
A
Retail store
A
A
Solid waste transfer station
C
P/C
2 Chapter 2 Article C. INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
11-2C-3: STANDARDS:
A. Dimensional standards:
Table 11-2C-2 shall be used for determining required setbacks, street and
use landscape buffers and maximum building height standards for
development in each of the industrial districts. Section 11 -2C -3.A.2 sets forth
certain exceptions and additional clarification for the dimensional standards.
TABLE 11-2C-2: DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS IN THE INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS
777 '777
pltWEN91,t)lV/ Lsi I
I•L
I -H
Storage facility, outside*
P
P
Storage facility, self-service*
P
P
Temporary use
A
A
Terminal, freight or truck *
P
P
Vehicle impoundyard*
P
P
Vehicle repair, major*
P
P
Vehicle repair, minor*
P
P
Vehicle sales or rental and service*
P
—Parking requirements
Vehicle washing facility*
A/C
A
Vehicle wrecking or junkyard*
P
Warehouse *
P
P
Wholesale sales
P
P
Wireless communication facility*
P
P
Wireless communication facility, amateur radio antenna
A
A
Wireless communication facility, stealth
P
P
its S that are W*0 W"0to SKG FIG USE STANDARDS in ac 0nt,,
t4I tar 4.
11-2C-3: STANDARDS:
A. Dimensional standards:
Table 11-2C-2 shall be used for determining required setbacks, street and
use landscape buffers and maximum building height standards for
development in each of the industrial districts. Section 11 -2C -3.A.2 sets forth
certain exceptions and additional clarification for the dimensional standards.
TABLE 11-2C-2: DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS IN THE INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS
777 '777
pltWEN91,t)lV/ Lsi I
i -LAN W
Front setback in feet
0
Rear setback in feet
0
Interior side setback in feet
0
Street setback* in feet
35
Street landscape buffer in feet
Local
10
Collector
20
Arterial
25
Entryway corridor
35
Interstate
50
buffer to non -industrial uses in feet
25 I -L and 40 I -H
—Landscape
Maximum building height in feet
50
—Parking requirements
See Chapter 3 Article C
Landscaping requirements
See Chapter 3 Article B
shall be rr+ RS("d f00( -uPtim night -of -way f0itho s owsification as shown on the
A ronSpOrMon Floq.
Chapter 2 Article C. INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
2. Maximum height limit:
a. The maximum height limitations shall not apply to the following
architectural features not intended for human occupation: spire or
steeple, belfry, cupola, chimney. Such architectural features shall have a
maximum height limit of twenty feet (20') as measured from the roof line.
b. The maximum height limitations shall not apply to the following: amateur
radio antenna; bridge tower; fire and hose tower; observation tower;
power line tower; smokestack; water tank or tower; ventilator; windmill;
wireless communication facility, or other commercial or personal tower
and/or antenna structure; or other appurtenances usually required to be
placed above the level of the ground and not intended for human
occupancy.
c. No exception shall be allowed to the height limit where the height of any
structures will constitute a hazard to the safe landing and take -off of
aircraft in an established airport.
d. Additional height not to exceed twenty percent (20%) of the maximum
height allowed for the district may be approved by the Director through
the Alternative Compliance procedures set forth in Chapter 5
ADMINISTRATION of this Title. Additional height shall be allowed when the
development provides ten percent (10%) of the building square feet in
open space, courtyards, patios, or other usable outdoor space available
for the employees and/or patrons of the structure, excluding required
setbacks and landscape buffers.
e. Additional height exceeding twenty percent (20%) of the maximum height
allowed for the district or when additional height is requested without
providing the required open space in accord with paragraph d. above
requires approval through a conditional use permit.
4 Chapter 2 Article C. INDUSTRIAL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
CHAPTER 2
DISTRICT REGULATIONS
ARTICLE D. TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICTS
ARTICLE D.
SECTIONS:
11-2D-1:
PURPOSE
11-2D-2:
ALLOWED USES
11-2D-3:
STANDARDS APPLICABLE IN ALL TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICTS
11-2D-4:
STANDARDS IN THE OLD TOWN DISTRICT (O -T)
11-2D-5:
STANDARDS IN THE TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER DISTRICT
(TN -C)
11-2D-6:
STANDARDS IN THE TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT
(TN -R)
11- 2D-1: PURPOSE: The purpose of the traditional neighborhood districts is to
encourage mixed-use, compact development that is sensitive to the environmental
characteristics of the land and facilitates the efficient use of services. Vertically
integrated residential projects are encouraged in all traditional neighborhood
districts. A traditional neighborhood district diversifies and integrates land uses
within close proximity to each other, and it provides for the daily recreational and
shopping needs of the residents.
A. OLD TOWN DISTRICT (0-T) The purpose of the O -T District is to
accommodate and encourage further intensification of the historical city
center in accord with the Meridian Comprehensive Plan. The intent of the O-
T District is to delineate a centralized activity center and to encourage its
renewal, revitalization and growth as the public, quasi -public, cultural,
financial and recreational center of the City. Public and quasi -public uses
integrated with general business, and medium-high to high-density
residential is encouraged to provide the appropriate mix and intensity of
activities necessary to establish a truly urban city center.
B. TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER DISTRICT (TN -C): The purpose
of the TN -C District is to serve as the focal point of a neighborhood center,
containing retail, commercial, and community services to meet the daily
needs of community residents within a one- to two-mile radius. A TN -C is
pedestrian -oriented, and it is designed to encourage pedestrian connection
with a Traditional Neighborhood Residential District. TN -C District uses
include small-scale retail, restaurants, recreational, personal services, public
or quasi -public uses, churches, and attached and multifamily dwellings.
C. TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT (TN -R): The
purpose of the TN -R District is to provide for a variety of residential land
uses including attached and detached single-family residential, duplex,
townhouse, and multifamily. A TN -R District includes open spaces and
promotes pedestrian activity through well-designed and varied streetscapes
that also provide for the safe and efficient movement of vehicular traffic.
Most dwelling units should be accessed from alleys. The maximum density
Chapter 2 Article D. TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICTS
6/2/05
of the TN -R District is fifteen (15) units per acre. The minimum density is six
(6) units per acre. Density should decrease away from the center and closer
to conventional residential districts. The TN -R District should be generally
located: adjacent to a TN -C District, along a transit corridor, or within a
mixed use neighborhood. For the purposes of this Title, the term residential
district shall also include the Traditional Neighborhood Residential District.
11-2D-2: ALLOWED USES: Table 11-2D-1 lists principal permitted (P),
accessory (A), and conditional (C) or prohibited (--) uses within each Traditional
Neighborhood District.
A. Permitted uses and accessory uses shall be reviewed in accord with Chapter
4 specific use standards of this Title.
B. Conditional uses shall be approved in accord with the procedures and
regulations for conditional uses set forth in Chapter 5 administration and the
specific use standards in Chapter 4 specific use standards of this Title.
C. Any use not explicitly listed in Table 11-2D-1 is prohibited in all Traditional
Neighborhood Districts.
D. Uses that are listed as P/C or A/C may be subject to a conditional use permit
depending on if the use is in accord with the specific use standards as set
forth in Chapter 4 specific use standards.
E. Interpretation of the inclusion or exclusion of allowed uses shall be made by
the Director and based on the Director's findings in review of the criteria
established in Chapter 1 general regulations of this Title.
TABLE 11-2D-1: ALLOWED USES IN THE
TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICTS
0
TN -C
TN -R
Artist studio*
P
P
Arts, entertainment or recreation facility, indoors*
P
C
-
Arts, entertainment or recreation facility, outdoors*
C
C
Arts, entertainment or recreation facility,
outdoor stage or music venue
C
C
_
Building material, garden equipment and supplies*
C
C
-
Church or place of religious worship*
P
P
C
Civic, social or fraternal organizations*
P
C
C
Day care facility*
C
C
C
Day care, family*
A
A
A
Day care, group*
P
P
C
Drinking establishment*
C
C
Dwelling, multifamily
P
P
P
Dwelling, secondary*
A
A
A
Dwelling, single-family attached
P
P
P
Dwellin , sinqle-farnily detached
P
I C
P
Dwelling, townhouse
P
I P
P
2 Chapter 2 Article D. TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICTS
6/2/05
11-2D-3: STANDARDS APPLICABLE IN ALL TRADITIONAL NEIGHBOR-
HOOD DISTRICTS: The standards for development in all the Traditional
Neighborhood Districts are set forth in this section as follows:
A. Encroachments allowed in any setback: Open structures on the second floor
such as porches, canopies, balconies, platforms, covered patios, cornices,
eaves or other projections, which do not increase the volume of space
enclosed by the building and do not project into any required setback by
more than two feet (2').
B. Maximum height limit:
1. The maximum height limitations shall not apply to the following
architectural features not intended for human occupation: spire or steeple,
belfry, cupola, chimney. Such architectural features shall have a maximum
height limit of twenty feet (20') as measured from the roof line.
2. The maximum height limitations shall not apply to the following: amateur
radio antenna; bridge tower; fire and hose tower; observation tower; power
line tower; smokestack; water tank or tower; ventilator; windmill; wireless
communication facility, or other commercial or personal tower and/or
Chapter 2 Article D, TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICTS
TN -C
TN -R
Dwelling, two-family duplex
P
C
P
Education institution,private*
P
C
C
Education institution,public*
P
P
P/C
Financial institution*
P
P
C
Health care or social services
P
P
Home occupation*
A
A
A
Hospital*
C
-
Hotel and motel*
P/C
C
Industry, information*
P/C
P/C
Industry, light*
C
-
Laundromat*
P
P
A
Mortuary
C
C
-
Nursing or residential care facility*
C
C
C
Parkinq facilitv
C
C
Parks, public and private
P
P
P
Personal or professional service
P
P
C
Public or quasi -public use*
P
P
C
Public, infrastructure*
C
C
C
Public utility, minor
C
P
P
Restaurant
P
P
-
Retail store
P
P
Temporary use
A
A
A
Vehicle repair, minor*
A
Vertical integrated residentialproject*
P
P
P
Wireless communication facility, amateur radio antenna
A
A
A
Wireless communication facility, stealth
P/C
P/C
P/C
*l sJuies that are su ' t[� SIC f3SE STANDARDS in
t►8 ti3r.4: "
11-2D-3: STANDARDS APPLICABLE IN ALL TRADITIONAL NEIGHBOR-
HOOD DISTRICTS: The standards for development in all the Traditional
Neighborhood Districts are set forth in this section as follows:
A. Encroachments allowed in any setback: Open structures on the second floor
such as porches, canopies, balconies, platforms, covered patios, cornices,
eaves or other projections, which do not increase the volume of space
enclosed by the building and do not project into any required setback by
more than two feet (2').
B. Maximum height limit:
1. The maximum height limitations shall not apply to the following
architectural features not intended for human occupation: spire or steeple,
belfry, cupola, chimney. Such architectural features shall have a maximum
height limit of twenty feet (20') as measured from the roof line.
2. The maximum height limitations shall not apply to the following: amateur
radio antenna; bridge tower; fire and hose tower; observation tower; power
line tower; smokestack; water tank or tower; ventilator; windmill; wireless
communication facility, or other commercial or personal tower and/or
Chapter 2 Article D, TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICTS
6/2/05
antenna structure; or other appurtenances usually required to be placed
above the level of the ground and not intended for human occupancy.
3. No exception shall be allowed to the height limit where the height of any
structures will constitute a hazard to the safe landing and take -off of
aircraft in an established airport.
4. In the TN -C District and O -T districts, additional height exceeding the
maximum height allowed for the district requires approval through a
conditional use permit. In the TN -C, the additional height allowed is limited
to twenty percent (20%) of the maximum height allowed for the district.
C. Street and pedestrian systems:
1. Street layout: The street system shall be based on a grid with connections
to the existing street system.
2. Block length: No block face shall have a length greater than five hundred
feet (500') without a dedicated street or alley, or no block face shall have a
length greater than seven hundred feet (700') without a pedestrian
connection. This standard may be varied for site design constraints or
hardship considerations.
D. Parking: See Chapter 3 Article C. off-street parking and loading
requirements.
E. Landscaping Requirements: See Chapter 3 Article B. landscaping
requirements.
11-2D-4: STANDARDS IN THE OLD TOWN DISTRICT (O -T): The standards
for development in the Old Town District are set forth in this section as follows:
A. Maximum building height is seventy-five (75').
B. Minimum number of stories for new construction is two (2).
C. Additional height exceeding the maximum height allowed requires approval
through a conditional use permit.
D. Administrative design review:
1. All new construction and exterior modifications shall be subject to
administrative design review in accord with the procedures set forth in
CHAPTER 5 ADMINISTRATION of this Title.
2. The criteria for the administrative design review is set forth in the
document Downtown Meridian Design Guidelines.
4 Chapter 2 Article D. TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICTS
1;000141
3. Any applications that do not meet the criteria in the Design Guidelines shall
be subject to a conditional use permit as forth in CHAPTER 5
ADMINISTRATION.
E. Parking: There are no off-street parking requirements in the Old Town
District.
F. Landscaping Requirements: See Chapter 3 Article B. landscaping
requirements.
11-2D-5: STANDARDS IN THE TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD CENTER
DISTRICT (TN -C): The standards for development in the Traditional Neighborhood
Center District are set forth in this section as follows:
A. Maximum building height is forty-five (45').
B. Minimum number of stories for new construction is two (2).
C. Maximum building footprint is twenty thousand (20,000) square feet.
D. Minimum contiguous district size is six (6) acres.
E. Administrative design review:
1. All new construction and exterior modifications shall be subject to
administrative design review in accord with the procedures set forth in
CHAPTER 5 ADMINISTRATION of this Title,
2. The criteria for the administrative design review is set forth in the
document Meridian Traditional Neighborhood Center Design Guidelines.
3. Any applications that do not meet the criteria in the Design Guidelines shall
be subject to a conditional use permit as forth in CHAPTER 5
ADMINISTRATION.
11-2D-6: STANDARDS IN THE TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD
RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT (TN -R): The standards for development in the Traditional
Neighborhood Residential District are set forth in this section as follows:
A. Dimensional Standards:
5 Chapter 2 Article D. TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICTS
612105
TABLE 11-2D-1: DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS IN THE TN -R DISTRICT
' "0IMSNSIONA4"$TANdiAROS
SY TYPE OF DWRzi.Llf, I
TN -R
DETACHED
ATTACHED AND TWO-
FAMILY DUPLEX
Minimum -density DU*/acre)
6
Maximum -density
15
Minimum Access in feet
Street
29' with parking on
both sides of the street or private drive
Alley only
20' right-of-way,
16' paved, with 26' clearance to structures
Minimum rear setback in feet
5
Minimum front setback** in feet
10 5
Minimum front setback** to garage Cin feet
20 20
Minimum side setback
5 0
Minimum side street setback" in feet
Alley
3
Local street
5
Collector
20
Minimum landscape buffer to streets
0
Maximum building height in feet
40
;dVullin�. unif
�: ,„"I��surec# flnm ba¢k-sidlkv
B. Minimum property size: Each building site shall be of sufficient size to meet
the minimum setbacks as established in this section.
C. Housing unit allocation: In the TN -R District, a minimum of two (2) housing
types, including but not limited to, single-family dwellings, townhouses, and
multifamily dwellings, shall be required on any subdivision submittal or
planned unit development application.
D. Drainage:
In no case shall a development propose less than a five-foot (5') setback
adjacent to a property that is not part of the development application.
2. Properties shall provide adequate area to maintain drainage on the site.
6 Chapter 2 Article D. TRADITIONAL NEIGHBORHOOD DISTRICTS
6/2/05
CHAPTER 3
REGULATIONS APPLYING TO ALL DISTRICTS
SECTIONS:
11-3-1: PURPOSE
11-3-2: APPLICABILITY
11-3-1: PURPOSE: This chapter establishes regulations for all uses in
accord with the applicable districts, including specific regulations.
11-3-2: APPLICABILITY: The regulations of this Chapter shall apply as
follows:
A. All development shall be in accord with Article A. standard regulations in all
districts.
B. All development shall be in accord with Article B. landscaping requirements.
C. All development shall be in accord with Article C. off-street parking and
loading requirements.
D. All development shall be in accord with Article D. sign requirements.
E. All development shall be in accord with Article E. temporary use
requirements.
F. All development shall be in accord with Article F. private street requirements.
G. All development shall be in accord with Article G. common open space and
site amenity requirements of this Chapter.
1 Chapter 3 REGULATIONS APPLYING TO ALL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
CHAPTER 3
REGULATIONS APPLYING TO ALL DISTRICTS
ARTICLE A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
ARTICLE A.
SECTIONS:
11-3A-1:
PURPOSE
11-3A-2
APPLICABILITY
11-3A-3:
ACCUMULATION OF JUNK
11-3A-4:
BIKEWAYS
11-3A-5
CLEAR VISION TRIANGLE
11-3A-6:
DITCHES, LATERALS, CANALS OR DRAINAGE COURSES
11-3A-7:
FENCES
11-3A-8:
MULTIUSE AND MICRO PATHWAYS
11-3A-9:
NATURAL FEATURES
11-3A-10:
NOXIOUS USE
11-3A-11:
OUTDOOR LIGHTING
11-3A-12:
OUTDOOR SERVICE AND EQUIPMENT AREAS
11-3A-13:
OUTDOOR SPEAKER SYSTEMS
11-3A-14:
OUTDOOR STORAGE
11-3A-15:
PRESSURIZED IRRIGATION SYSTEM
11-3A-16:
SELF-SERVICE USES
11-3A-17:
SIDEWALKS AND PARKWAYS
11-3A-18:
STORM DRAINAGE
11-3A-19:
STRUCTURES SUBJECT TO DESIGN STANDARDS
11-3A-20:
TRAVELING SLEEPING QUARTERS
11-3A-21:
UTILITIES
11-3A-1: PURPOSE: This Article provides standard regulations for the
location, design, and development of new land uses and the alteration of existing
land uses. This Article supplements the regulations for development in each district
and in accord with Chapter 2 district regulations of this Title.
11-3A-2: APPLICABILITY: This Article shall apply to the development of all
principal permitted, accessory, and conditional uses. The following regulations are
the minimum standards of development. Additional standards may be applied in
accord with specific use standards, or other regulations of this Title.
11-3A-3: ACCUMULATION OF JUNK: The accumulation of junk on any
property not meeting the requirements of Chapter 4 specific use standards Section
11-4-3.40 of this Title is prohibited.
Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
11-3A-4: BIKEWAYS:
A. Bikeways shall be encouraged within all subdivisions, within the public right-
of-way or separate easement, consistent with the City's Comprehensive
Plan.
B. The Bicycle -Pedestrian Design Manual For Ada County (as prepared by the
Ada County Highway District) should be considered when reviewing bikeway
designs.
C. Consistent with the Comprehensive Plan, on -street bikeways shall be
constructed on all collector streets.
11-3A-5: CLEAR VISION TRIANGLE:
A. Measurement of the clear vision triangle:
1. For two (2) public streets or a street and railroad crossing, the area is
defined by measuring from the intersection of the edge of pavement a
distance of forty feet (40') along each road. See Figure 3.
2. For a public street and driveway or alley, the area is defined by measuring
from the intersection of the property adjacent to the roadway and the
corner of the driveway twenty feet (20') along the roadway and ten feet
(10') along the driveway. See Figure 3.
Figure 3: Clear Vision Triangle Drawings
2 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
EDGE OF DRIVEWAY "'f
0
20'
EDGE OF ROAD
PROPERTYWO
LINE
t
t
i t
SIGHT TRIANGLE Mic
� t
ao R PROJECTED
INTERSECTION
EDGE OF ROAD
B. Standards, both at controlled and uncontrolled intersections:
1. Planting and Development Standards:
a. Any Class I or Class II trees planted within a clear vision triangle shall be
pruned to a minimum height of eight feet (8') above the ground or
sidewalk surface and fourteen feet (14') above the adjacent street
surface. See Figure 3.
b. No evergreen trees shall be planted within any clear vision triangle.
c. No Class III trees shall be planted within any clear vision triangle.
d. The maximum height of any berm or vegetative groundcover at maturity
within the clear vision triangle shall be three feet (3') from the lowest
adjacent street grade.
e. No fences higher than three feet (3') from the lowest adjacent street
grade are permitted in the clear vision triangle.
f. No signs taller than three feet (3) are permitted in the clear vision
triangle, except for street/stop signs approved by the Transportation
Authority.
3 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
2. Other agency standards: In all cases, the Transportation Authority
standards shall apply in addition to City of Meridian standards.
11-3A-6: DITCHES, LATERALS, CANALS OR DRAINAGE COURSES:
A. Piping:
1. Natural waterways intersecting, crossing, or lying within the area being
developed shall remain as a natural amenity and shall not be piped or
otherwise covered. See also Section 11 -3A -6.B.1.
2. Irrigation ditches, laterals, canals, and drains may be left open when used
as a water amenity or linear open space. See also Section 11 -3A -6.B.2.
3. Except as allowed above, all other irrigation ditches, laterals or canals,
intersecting, crossing or lying within the area being developed, shall be
piped, or otherwise covered. This requirement does not apply to property
with only an irrigation easement where the actual drainage facility is
located on an adjoining property.
a. The City Council may waive the requirement for covering such ditch,
lateral, canal, or drain, if it finds that the public purpose requiring such
will not be served and public safety can be preserved.
b. The City Council may also waive this requirement for large -capacity
facilities.
B. Fencing:
1. Fencing along all natural waterways shall not prevent access to the
waterway. In limited circumstances and in the interest of public safety,
larger open water systems may require fencing as determined by the City
Council, Director and/or Public Works Director.
2. Ditches, laterals, canals, and drains do not require fencing if it can be
demonstrated by the applicant to the satisfaction of the Director that said
ditch, lateral, canal, or drain serves as or will be improved as a part of the
development, to be a water amenity. Construction drawings and relevant
calculations prepared by a qualified licensed professional registered in the
State of Idaho shall be submitted to both the Director and the authorized
representative of the water facility for approval.
3. Except as allowed above, all other open irrigation ditches, laterals, canals,
and drains shall be fenced with a chain-link fence at least six feet (6) in
height and having an eleven (11) gauge, two-inch (2") mesh or other
construction, equivalent in ability to deter access to said ditch, lateral,
canal or drain, which fence shall be securely fastened at its base at all
places where any part of said lands or areas being subdivided touches
either or both sides of said ditch, lateral, canal, or drain.
4 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
101MIN
C. Impeding movement of water prohibited: For any irrigation or drainage ditch
not within the jurisdiction of an irrigation or drainage district, piping shall not
impede the movement of the amount of water crossing the property prior to
development or the amount of water delivered to downstream properties.
D. Natural drainage courses: All natural drainage courses shall be left
undisturbed or be improved in a manner that will improve the hydraulics and
ease of maintenance of the channel. Relocation of natural swales is
acceptable if the hydraulics and ease of maintenance are provided for. The
term natural drainage course shall not be deemed to apply to minor swales
and depressions that are located entirely on the applicant's property and
which serve a relatively small area where runoff is infrequent.
11-3A-7: FENCES: The following regulations shall govern the type, location,
and construction of all fences:
A. General Standards:
1. When a fence is erected not in conjunction with a building permit for a
principal use or building, a separate building permit is required.
2. Electric wire fencing shall be prohibited.
3. Barb wire fencing shall be prohibited, except in the C -C, C -G, I -L, and I -H
Districts when: a) used as the top section for security fencing; and b)
located a minimum of six feet (6) above grade to the bottom wire.
4. Unsightly materials: The use of boxes, sheet metal, old or decayed wood,
broken masonry blocks, or other like unsightly materials for fencing shall
be prohibited.
5. No fence shall obstruct access to public utility boxes, meters or other
infrastructure.
6. Fences shall be kept free from advertising and graffiti and maintained in
good repair.
7. Regulations for fences along micro -paths and common open space areas
are set forth in Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS Section 11-313-12 of
this Chapter.
8. A fence constructed in the public right-of-way shall require a license
agreement from the Transportation Authority.
9. If an owner or applicant desires to obtain an alternative compliance from
the provisions of this Section, the procedure shall be in accord with
Chapter 5 ADMINISTRATION of this Title.
5 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
10. See Section 11-3A-6.13.1 for additional fencing requirements along
irrigation ditches, laterals, canals, and/or drains.
11. See Section 11-3A-8 for additional fencing requirements along pathways.
B. Additional standards in the C -N, C -C, C -G, I -L, and 1-H Districts:
1. The maximum fence height shall not exceed eight feet (8').
2. Open vision fences may be built to the property line.
C. Additional standards in the R-2, R-4, R-8, R-15, R-40, L -O, O -T, TN -C, and
TN -R Districts:
1. The maximum fence height shall not exceed six feet (6), subject to the
provisions set forth in Sections 2 and 3 below.
2. The maximum fence height in the front yard including the front and side
yard property lines shall be three feet (3') for a closed vision fence and four
feet (4) for an open vision fence. See Figure 4.
3. On corner properties, the maximum fence height shall be six feet (6')
above the grade at the property line, and the minimum setback shall be ten
feet (10') from the property line.
4. Where the rear yard of one property adjoins the front yard of another
property, the fence along the rear and side yards where they adjoin the
adjacent front yard shall be flush or angled at forty-five (45) degrees to
provide continuity with the adjoining fence and property line. See Figure 4.
6 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
Figure 4: Fence regulations
ti'. -
II.
6/2/05
11-3A-8: MULTIUSE AND MICRO PATHWAYS:
A. Multiuse and micro pathways shall be required consistent with the
Comprehensive Plan within new residential and commercial developments
as part of the public right-of-way or as separate easements so that an
alternate transportation system (which is distinct and separate from the
automobiles) can be provided throughout the urban service planning area.
"I
C0
0
E
P
The Bicycle -Pedestrian Design Manual for Ada County (as prepared by the
Ada County Highway District) and the City of Meridian Parks and Recreation
Master Plan should be considered when reviewing pathway designs.
Right-of-way for pathways in the middle of long blocks may be required
where necessary to obtain convenient pedestrian circulation to schools,
parks, other residential areas, and/or shopping areas.
Pathways shall have easements at least fifteen feet (15') in width in accord
with Section 11-36 landscaping requirements of this Title.
Micro pathways shall be less than two hundred and fifty feet (250') or two lot
depths in length and have a walking surface of least five feet (5') in width.
Micro pathways shall comply with the landscaping requirements in accord
with Chapter 3 Article B landscaping requirements.
7 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
G. The developer is responsible for the construction of the fences adjacent to
all micro pathways. Fences shall be required along micro pathways to
distinguish common from private areas. The following fence restrictions shall
be included as a note on all final plats that include a micro pathway. Fences
adjacent to a micro pathway shall be:
An open vision fence, as it provides visibility from adjacent homes or
buildings; or
2. If closed vision fencing is used, it shall not exceed four feet (4') in height.
H. Multiuse pathways along utility easements or connecting regional facilities
shall have a hard surface area of at least ten feet (10') unless more is
needed for utility access.
11-3A-9: NATURAL FEATURES: Existing natural features that add value to
development and enhance the attractiveness of the community (such as trees,
watercourses, historic spots and similar irreplaceable amenities) shall be preserved
or mitigated in the design of the development.
11-3A-10: NOXIOUS USE: No area or structure in any district shall be used or
occupied in any manner creating dangerous, injurious, noxious or hazardous
conditions to the surrounding areas.
A. Fire hazard. Any activity involving the use or storage of flammable or
explosive materials shall be protected by adequate fire -fighting and fire
prevention equipment and by such safety devices as are normally used in
the handling of any such materials. Such hazards shall be kept removed
from adjacent activities to a distance that is compatible with the potential
danger involved as specified in the Uniform Fire Code, Title 5 of the Meridian
City Code and the National Safety Foundation publications.
B. Radioactivity or electrical disturbance. No activity shall emit harmful
radioactivity at any point, or electrical disturbance adversely affecting the
operation of any equipment at any point other than that of the creator of such
disturbance.
C. Vibration. No vibration shall be permitted that is discernible without
instruments on any adjoining property.
D. Air pollution. Air pollution shall be subject to the requirements and
regulations established by the health authority.
E. Erosion. No erosion shall be permitted that will carry objectionable
substances onto neighboring properties.
F. Water pollution. Water pollution shall be subject to the requirements and
regulations established by the health authority.
Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
11-3A-11: OUTDOOR LIGHTING:
A. The following types of lighting are exempt from the regulations of this
Section:
1. Light fixtures that have a maximum output of less than 260 lumens.
2. All outdoor lighting produced by the direct combustion of natural gas or
other fossil fuels such as kerosene lanterns or gas lamps.
3. Temporary holiday lighting used for forty (40) days or less per year.
4. Vehicular lights and all temporary emergency lighting needed for fire
protection, police protection, and/or other emergency services.
5. All hazard warning lights required by Federal or State regulatory agencies.
B. The installation of any of the following types of lighting are prohibited:
1. Mercury vapor lamp fixture and/or lamp.
2. Laser source light or any similar high-intensity light when projected above
the horizontal.
3. Changing colors, strobe or moving lights, or searchlights (for advertising
purposes) are prohibited in all districts, except where approved for
temporary uses.
4. Lighting, including holiday lighting, on commercial or private tower
structures that exceed the district height limit is prohibited, except as
required by regulations of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
C. Standards.
1. Light fixtures that have a maximum output of 260 lumens or more shall
have an opaque top to prevent up -lighting.
2. Light fixtures that have a maximum output of 1,000 lumens or more per
fixture shall have an opaque top to prevent up -lighting, and the bulb shall
not be visible.
3. Light fixtures that have a maximum output of 1,800 lumens or more shall
have an opaque top to prevent up -lighting; the bulb shall not be visible and
shall have a full cut-off shield. See Figure 5.
4. Light fixtures with a maximum output of 1,800 lumens or more shall be
placed such that the effective zone of light (as documented by the
9 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
12YiY1aUl•'i
photometric test report) shall not trespass on abutting residential
properties. See Figure 6.
FIGURE 5: EXAMPLES OF FULL CUT-OFF SHIELDS
ALLOWED
NOT ALLOWED
FIGURE 6: LIGHT TRESPASS
5. Floodlight fixtures shall be located in such a manner as to prevent direct
glare into a street and to minimize impact on abutting properties.
a. Floodlight fixtures shall be set to go on only when triggered by activity on
the property (sensor -activated) and to go off within 5 minutes after
activation has ceased.
b. Floodlight fixtures shall be installed so that they do not tilt up more than
45 degrees down from vertical.
10 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
\II
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FIGURE 6: LIGHT TRESPASS
5. Floodlight fixtures shall be located in such a manner as to prevent direct
glare into a street and to minimize impact on abutting properties.
a. Floodlight fixtures shall be set to go on only when triggered by activity on
the property (sensor -activated) and to go off within 5 minutes after
activation has ceased.
b. Floodlight fixtures shall be installed so that they do not tilt up more than
45 degrees down from vertical.
10 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
6. Up -lighting shall only be allowed in cases where the fixture and any light it
emits are shielded from the sky by a roof overhang or similar structural
shield.
7. In residential districts, the height of a freestanding light fixture on private
property shall not exceed six feet (6'). Street lamps are exempt from this
height restriction.
8. Light fixtures mounted on a wall may extend to the full height of the
structure, but no farther.
9. Electrical feeds to outdoor light fixtures shall be underground, not
overhead.
10. Alternative compliance procedure: If an owner or applicant desires to
obtain an alternative compliance from the provisions of this Section, the
procedure shall be in accord with Chapter 5 ADMINISTRATION of this Title.
11-3A-12: OUTDOOR SERVICE AND EQUIPMENT AREAS:
A. Outdoor mechanical equipment (including, but not limited to, heaters and
fans) shall not be located within fifty feet (50') of any abutting residential
districts. To reduce noise, permanently mounted mechanical equipment shall
be enclosed to the maximum extent possible.
B. Outdoor utility meters, HVAC equipment, trash Dumpsters, trash compaction
and other service functions shall be incorporated into the overall design of
buildings and landscaping so that the visual and acoustic impacts of these
functions are fully contained and out of view from adjacent properties and
public streets.
11-3A-13: OUTDOOR SPEAKER SYSTEMS: Any outdoor speaker system
associated with the use shall be located a minimum one hundred feet (100') from all
residential districts. No outdoor speaker systems shall be allowed within a
residential district. These standards may be waived through approval of a
Conditional Use Permit.
11-3A-14: OUTDOOR STORAGE:
A. All outdoor storage of material shall be maintained in an orderly manner so
as not to create a public nuisance. Materials shall not be stored within the
required yards. Stored items shall not block sidewalks or parking areas and
may not impede vehicular or pedestrian traffic.
B. The site shall not be used as a vehicle wrecking or junkyard as herein
defined.
C. Outdoor storage shall be incorporated into the overall design of buildings
and landscaping so that the visual and acoustic impacts of these functions
11 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
are fully contained and out of view from adjacent properties and public
streets.
11-3A-15: PRESSURIZED IRRIGATION SYSTEMS:
A. System installation required: In each development, the applicant shall
provide underground, pressurized irrigation water. For subdivisions, each
and every lot within the subdivision shall have underground pressurized
irrigation water in compliance with Title 9, Chapter 1 water use and service.
The pressurized irrigation system shall be constructed and installed at the
same time as the domestic water lines, but it shall not necessarily be in the
same trenches.
B. Cross -connections: All cross -connections between the domestic water lines
and the irrigation water lines shall be in accord with the City's adopted
standards, specifications and ordinances.
C. Waiver of requirements: The requirements for pressurized irrigation may be
waived upon proof that any particular property does not have water rights in
an existing irrigation district. The City's domestic water system shall be the
last option for providing irrigation water to a proposed subdivision.
D. If any property does not have water rights from an existing irrigation district,
the applicant shall pay well development fees as determined by the City.
11-3A-16: SELF-SERVICE USES: Any unattended, self-service uses, including
but not limited to, laundromats, automatic teller machines (ATMs), vehicle washing
facilities, fuel sales facilities, and storage facilities, shall comply with the following
requirements. The Meridian Police Chief or designee may approve alternative
standards where it is determined that a similar or greater level of security is
provided:
A. Entrance or view of the self-service facility shall be open to the public street
or to adjoining businesses and shall have low -impact security lighting.
B. Financial transaction areas shall be oriented to and visible from an area that
receives a high volume of traffic, such as a collector or arterial street.
C. Landscape shrubbery shall be limited to no more than three feet (3') in
height between entrances and financial transaction areas and the public
street.
11-3A-17: SIDEWALKS AND PARKWAYS:
A. All sidewalks shall be a minimum of five feet (6), except if detached
sidewalks are provided on local streets in residential subdivisions, the
minimum sidewalk width may be reduced to four feet (4').
B. Sidewalks shall be designed to flare around mail boxes, utility boxes and
12 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
other impediments to pedestrian circulation to maintain a minimum four feet
(4') of travel width.
C. Detached sidewalks shall be required along all arterial and collector streets.
The requirement for detached sidewalks can be waived by the Director for
sidewalks less than three hundred (300) linear feet in length and between
two adjoining properties with attached sidewalks.
D. Sidewalks shall be required on both sides of the street, except where the
average width of lots, as measured at the street frontage line or at the
building setback line, is over one hundred fifty feet (150'); sidewalks on only
one side of the street may be allowed.
E. The minimum width of a parkway shall be five feet (5'). The width can be
measured from the back of curb when it can be demonstrated that there is
no opportunity for expansion of the street section within the right-of-way; the
parkway width shall exclude the width of the sidewalk. Only Class II trees
may be planted in parkways less than ten feet (10') in width.
11-3A-18: STORM DRAINAGE: An adequate storm drainage system shall be
required in all developments in accord with the City's adopted standards,
specifications and ordinances. Design and construction shall follow best
management practice as adopted by the City.
11-3A-19: STRUCTURES SUBJECT TO DESIGN STANDARDS:
A. Purpose:
1. To create unique character and quality architectural design in the
development of large structures.
2. To minimize the impact of the scale, bulk and color of large structures on
surrounding properties.
3. To encourage high-quality materials and longevity in large structures.
4. To protect the safety and convenience of pedestrian access to large
structures, and create attractive pedestrian amenities.
5. To provide greater attention to the design and location of large structures in
relationship to the surrounding street.
6. To locate noise -generating activities away from any adjacent residential
uses.
7. To create attractive and quality designed structures reflecting the unique
character of Meridian along the City's entryway corridors.
13 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
8. To guide the design of structures, not control the type, intensity or density of
the use.
B. Applicability: All structures greater than the following sizes are subject to the
requirements of this section:
1. All structures greater than 7,500 square feet in the C -N District;
2. All structures greater than 10,000 square feet in the L -O District;
3. All structures greater than 60,000 square feet in the C -C District; and
4. All structures greater than 200,000 square feet in the C -G District,
5. All structures on property adjacent to an entryway corridor.
C. Standards
1. Architectural Character:
a. Facades: Facades visible from a public street shall incorporate
modulations in the fagade, roof line recesses and projections along a
minimum of twenty percent (20%) of the length of the facade.
b. Primary public entrance(s): The primary building entrance(s) shall be
clearly defined by the architectural design of the building. Windows,
awnings, or arcades shall total a minimum of thirty percent (30%) of the
facade length facing a public street.
c. Roof lines: Roof design shall demonstrate two or more of the following:
a) overhanging eaves, b) sloped roofs; c) two (2) or more roof planes; d)
varying parapet heights; and e) cornices.
d. Pattern variations: At least two (2) changes in one (1) or a combination of
the following shall be incorporated into the building design: color, texture
and/ materials.
e. Mechanical equipment: All ground -level and rooftop mechanical
equipment shall be screened to the height of the unit as viewed from the
property line.
2. Color and materials: Exterior building walls shall demonstrate the
appearance of high-quality materials of stone, brick, wood or other native
materials. Acceptable materials include tinted or textured masonry block,
textured architectural coated concrete panels, tinted or textured masonry
block, or stucco or stucco -like synthetic materials. Smooth -faced concrete
block, tilt -up concrete panels, or prefabricated steel panels are prohibited
except as accent materials.
14 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
3. Parking Lots: No more than seventy percent (70%) of the off-street parking
area for the structure shall be located between the front fagade of the
structure and abutting streets, unless the principal building(s) and/or
parking is/are screened from view by other structures, landscaping and/or
berms.
4. Pedestrian walkways:
a. A continuous internal pedestrian walkway that is a minimum of eight feet
(8') in width shall be provided from the perimeter sidewalk to the main
building entrance. The walkway width shall be maintained clear of any
outdoor sale displays, vending machines, or temporary structures.
b. The internal pedestrian walkway shall be distinguished from the vehicular
driving surfaces through the use of pavers, colored or scored concrete,
or bricks.
c. Walkways at least eight feet (8') in width, shall be provided for any aisle
length that is greater than one -hundred fifty (150) parking spaces or two
hundred feet (200') away from the main building entrance.
d. The walkways shall have weather protection (including but not limited to
an awning or arcade) within twenty feet (20') of all customer entrances.
D. Alternative compliance: The Director may approve, or recommend approval
of, an alternative compliance proposal in accord with Chapter 5
administration of this Title, when the overall design, as proposed by the
applicant, meets or exceeds the intent and the requirements of this Section
and shall not be detrimental to public health, safety, and welfare.
11-3A-20: TRAVELING SLEEPING QUARTERS: Recreation vehicles and
equipment, including but not limited to, travel trailers, fifth -wheels, recreational
vehicles, motor coaches, and tent, shall not be used as living quarters unless within
an approved campground or recreational vehicle park.
11-3A-21: UTILITIES:
A. All utilities for an approved use shall be installed at or below grade in accord
with the City's adopted standards, specifications and ordinances.
B. Street lighting shall be installed in accord with the City's adopted standards,
specifications and ordinances.
15 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
C. All development shall be connected to the City of Meridian water and sewer
systems, unless otherwise approved by the City Engineer.
All public water supply or sewer systems (serving one or more
separate premises or households) shall be constructed in accord with
the City's adopted master plans.
2. All new public water supply or sewer systems shall be an extension
of an existing public system.
D. Fire hydrants and water mains: Adequate fire protection shall be required in
accord with the appropriate fire district standards.
16 Chapter 3 Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL DISTRICTS
6/2/05
CHAPTER 3
REGULATIONS APPLYING TO ALL DISTRICTS
ARTICLE B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
ARTICLE B.
SECTIONS
11-313-1:
PURPOSE
11-313-2:
APPLICABILITY
11-313-3:
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
11-3B-4:
APPLICATION PROCESS
11-313-5:
STANDARDS AND INSTALLATION
11-36-6:
IRRIGATION STANDARDS
11-3B-7:
LANDSCAPE BUFFERS ALONG STREETS
11-313-8:
PARKING LOT LANDSCAPING
11-313-9:
BUFFERS BETWEEN LAND USES
11-3B-10:
TREE PRESERVATION
11-3B-11:
STORMWATER INTEGRATION
11-313-12:
MICROPATH LANDSCAPING
11-313-13:
LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE
11-3B-14:
INSTALLATION
11-3B-1: PURPOSE:
A. The regulations of this Article are intended to promote landscaping in the
City of Meridian that will improve community livability, preserve the quality of
life, and enhance the aesthetic quality, economic viability, and environmental
health of the city.
B. The City of Meridian recognizes that landscaping can be a significant
expense to business people and residents. At the same time, landscaping
improves the livability of residential neighborhoods, enhances the
appearance and customer attraction of commercial areas, increases
property values, improves the compatibility of adjacent uses, screens
undesirable views, and can reduce air and noise pollution.
C. The intent of these regulations is to achieve a balance between the right of
individuals to develop and maintain their property in a manner they prefer
and the rights of City residents to live, work, shop, and recreate in pleasant,
healthy, and attractive surroundings.
D. These regulations are intended to promote the use of native and other low-
water -use plant materials and to discourage landscaping that requireds high
water use for maintenance, such as large expanses of lawn.
Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
11-36-2: APPLICABILITY: A landscape plan shall be required for the
following:
A. All development, redevelopment, additions, or site modifications except
detached and attached single-family, two-family duplexes, and townhouse
dwelling units.
B, All common lots in all subdivisions.
C. All applications for a Conditional Use Permit (CUP), Preliminary Plat (PP),
Final Plat (FP), Certificate of Zoning Compliance (CZC), or Planned Unit
Development (PUD).
D. Applicability of additions to existing structures: Existing development shall be
required to conform to this section based upon the following guidelines:
1. For additions less than twenty five percent (25%) of the existing structure
or developed area, no additional landscaping shall be required.
2. For additions that are twenty five percent (25%) to fifty percent (50%) of
the existing structure or developed area, Perimeter and Right-of-way
Landscaping as required by this Article shall be installed.
3. For additions greater than fifty percent (50%) of the existing structure or
developed area, all current landscape standards of this Article shall be
met.
4. If the location of existing buildings or other structures prevents
conformance with the requirements of this section, or if its implementation
would create a non -conformity, the Director shall determine how this Article
is to be applied through the Alternative Compliance process in accord with
Chapter 5 ADMINISTRATION of this Title.
11-3B-3: APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS:
A. All landscape plans shall comply with the requirements for size, scale,
number of copies, and contents as detailed in the application form.
B. The landscape plan may be on the same site plan used to show parking
layout, setback compliance, etc.
C. All landscape plans shall be prepared by a landscape architect, landscape
designer, or qualified nurseryman.
11-36-4: APPLICATION PROCESS:
A. A preliminary landscape plan review is recommended prior to submission for
all developments, but is not required.
2 Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
B. A landscape plan will be reviewed in accord with the standards and
procedures set forth in this Article and approved by the Department.
C. Landscape plan modification:
I. An approved Landscape Plan shall not be altered without prior approval of
the Planning Department.
2. No significant field changes to the plan are permitted.
3. Prior written approval of all material changes is required.
4. All approved changes to the landscape plan shall be documented prior to
issuance of a Certificate of Occupancy.
11-38-5: STANDARDS AND INSTALLATION:
A. Approved plant material: The publication titled Tree Selection Guide for
Streets and Landscapes throughout Idaho by the Urban Forestry Unit of the
Boise Parks and Recreation Department (latest edition) is hereby adopted by
this reference as the City of Meridian's list of approved and prohibited plant
material. The publication categorizes the trees by size as Class I, Class II, or
Class III trees. The City recognizes that new plant varieties are being
produced every year and will consider other species not listed in the
publication. Copies of the publication will be available at the Planning
Department.
B. Minimum plant sizes: The following are minimum plant sizes for all required
landscape areas:
TABLE 11-3B-1: MINIMUM PLANT SIZES
Ty"Pol" 1F
ItIMMUM SIZE
Shade Trees:
Two inch T caliper minimum
Omamental Trees:
Two inch T caliper minimum
Evergreen Trees:
Six foot 6' hei ht minimum
Woody Shrubs:
Two 2gallon pot minimum
C. Prohibited plant material: The plants listed under Trees Not Permitted for
Rights -of -Way Property Planting are prohibited from being planted along any
street or within any parking lot regulated by this Article. The only exception is
that conifers may be planted in the center of street buffers that have a
minimum width of twenty feet (20') as measured from the edge of the
sidewalk to the street curb. For public safety purposes, the location of such
conifers shall maintain view corridors of nonresidential structures.
Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
D. Tree species mix: When five (5) or more trees are to be planted to meet the
requirements of any portion of this Article (including street trees, street
buffers, parking lot landscaping and other landscape guidelines), a mix of
species shall be provided. The number of species to be planted shall vary
according to the overall number of trees required to be planted. See the
table below:
A
TABLE 11-38-2: REQUIRED NUMBER OF TREES AND SPECIES
REWIRED NUM 'Of TJ�1=ES
"MUM NUMBER OF SPECIES
5 to 10
z
11 to 30
3
31 to 50
q
more than 50
5
Plant quality: All plant material installed pursuant to this Article shall meet or
exceed the minimum federal standards as regulated by ANSI Z60,1,
American Standard for Nursery Stock.
F. Planting standards: All trees, shrubs, and other plant material shall be
planted using accepted nursery standards as published by the American
Association of Nurserymen (latest edition) including hole size, backfilling,
and fertilization.
G. Staking: tree staking is not required but may be used in areas with high
winds or other situations that make staking desirable. If trees are staked, the
stakes shall be removed within 12 months to prevent damage to the tree.
H. Mulching: Mulch shall be used in all required planting areas. Approved
mulches may be organic, such as bark or soil aid, or they may include rock
products, such as "permabark" or similar products. Use of mulch, organic or
rock, as the only groundcover in required planting areas is prohibited.
Required landscape areas shall be at least seventy percent (70%) covered
with vegetation at maturity, with mulch used under and around the plants.
Pea gravel, drain rock, road base gravel, and similar products shall not be
used as mulch. All mulch shall be contained by a curb or other edging
material to contain the mulch and prevent it from migrating to adjacent
surfaces. If rock mulch is used, a weed barrier fabric shall be used beneath
the rock. Impermeable plastic weed barriers are prohibited because they
restrict water and oxygen to the plants.
Curbing: All planting areas that border driveways, parking lots, and other
vehicle use areas shall be protected by curbing, wheel stops, or other
approved protective devices. Such devices shall be a minimum of thirty
inches (30") from all tree trunks to prevent cars from damaging tree trunks.
4 Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
Utilities: The following standards apply to the planting of trees near existing
utilities and to trenching for new utilities near existing trees:
1. Overhead utilities: Only Class I trees in the Recommended Plant List may
be planted under or within ten (10) lateral feet of any overhead utility wires.
2. Underground utilities: All trees shall be planted outside of any easement
that contains a City water or sewer main, unless written approval is
obtained from the City Engineer. If any utility easement precludes trees
required by this Article, the width of the required buffer shall be increased
to accommodate the required trees.
3. Trenching: New underground utilities shall stay outside of the dripline of
existing trees if trenched, or be tunneled a minimum of three (3') feet below
existing grade within the tree's dripline. The guiding principle is that no root
two inches (2') or larger shall be cut. Note: This requirement is for
placement of new utilities and does not affect the City's ability to access
existing utilities for repair and maintenance.
K. Erosion control: The landscape installation shall stabilize all soil and slopes.
L. Berms: berm slopes shall not exceed 2:1 (horizontal: vertical). 3:1 maximum
slopes are recommended. Grass that requires mowing shall not be used on
slopes steeper than 3:1.
11-3B-6: IRRIGATION STANDARDS:
A. Irrigation required: All landscape areas regulated by this Article shall be
served with an automatic underground irrigation system. Additional
requirements affecting pressurized irrigation systems can be found in the
Meridian City Code Section 9-1-28 pressurized irrigation.
B. Performance specifications: Three (3) copies of detailed irrigation
performance specifications shall be submitted with the landscape plan for all
Final Plats and Certificates of Zoning Compliance. Performance
specifications shall state design requirements, materials, construction
methods, and point of connection, and the following specifications:
1. Coverage. The irrigation system shall be designed to provide 100%
coverage with head-to-head spacing or triangular spacing as appropriate.
2. Matched precipitation rates. Sprinkler heads shall have matched
precipitation rates within each control valve circuit.
3. Irrigation districts. Sprinkler heads irrigating lawn or other high -water -
demand areas shall be circuited so that they are on a separate zone or
districts from those irrigating trees, shrubs, or other reduced -water -demand
areas.
Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
4. Overspray. Sprinkler heads shall be adjusted to reduce overspray onto
impervious surfaces such as streets, sidewalks, driveways, and parking
areas.
C. Backflow prevention: Provide an appropriate backflow prevention device as
required by Meridian City Code Chapter 9, Article 3 cross connection control.
D. Irrigation water: Use of non -potable irrigation water is required when
determined to be available by the City Public Works Department as set forth
in Meridian City Code Section 9-1-28 pressurized irrigation. Water availability
during the fall and spring seasons is also required by connecting to City
potable water or an on-site well as a secondary source, except where
xeriscape landscaping has been provided. If City potable water is used, a
separate water meter is required so the owner can avoid paying sewer fees
for irrigation water.
E. Subdivision irrigation systems: If the irrigation system is part of a plat, any
irrigation pump station shall be on a common lot. The irrigation system shall
be owned and maintained by an irrigation district or an Owners Association.
11-3B-7: LANDSCAPE BUFFERS ALONG STREETS:
A. Purpose: The intent of these requirements is to ensure the long term and
consistent maintenance of landscape buffers along streets that improve the
visual quality of the streetscape, unify diverse architecture, and carry out the
Comprehensive Plan policies related to promoting attractive street(s) and
street beautification.
B. Applicability: Landscape buffers shall be required along streets in all
locations, except for local streets adjacent to single-family residential,
duplex, and townhouse properties.
C. Standards for landscape buffers along streets shall be as follows:
1. Buffer size: See Chapter 2 DISTRICT REGULATIONS.
a. Street buffers with attached sidewalks: All street buffers with attached
sidewalks shall be measured from the property line and not from the
sidewalk or curb.
b. Where the buffer is encumbered by easements or other restrictions, the
buffer area shall include a minimum five-foot (5') wide area for planting
shrubs and trees.
c. Width reduction: In a development where the required street buffer width
results in an otherwise unavoidable hardship to the property, a written
request for a buffer reduction may be submitted through the Alternative
Compliance process in accord with Chapter 5 ADMINISTRATION of this
Title. The request shall demonstrate evidence of the hardship caused by
Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
the required street buffer and propose a specific alternative width. In no
case shall the width be reduced to less than ten percent (10%) of the
depth of the lot, except in Old Town.
2. Buffer location: Landscape buffers along streets shall be located at all
subdivision boundaries.
a. All residential subdivision street buffers shall be on a common lot,
maintained by a home -owners association.
b. All commercial, industrial, and other nonresidential street buffers
shall be on a common lot or on a permanent easement, maintained
by the property owner or business owners association.
c. Except where fences and walls are used as decorative landscape
elements, fences and walls are permitted only on the interior edge of
the street buffer.
3. Street trees:
a. All required landscape buffers along streets shall be planted with
trees and shrubs, lawn, or other vegetative groundcover.
b. The minimum density of one (1) tree per thirty-five (35) linear feet is
required. If this calculation results in a fraction five (5) or greater,
round up to an additional tree. If the calculation results in a fraction
less than five (5), round the number down.
c. Large shrubs, hedges and conifers should be used sparingly and in
clusters that are well integrated with the landscape design. Such
plants shall not screen or create a public safety hazard.
4. Tree spacing: For design flexibility, trees may be grouped together or
spaced evenly as desired. However, trees shall be spaced no closer than
eighty percent (80%) of the average mature width of the trees, as
demonstrated in the following examples:
7 Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
FIGURE 7: TREE SPACING
Examples:
x
(X+—Y).8
Minimum'h-ee Spacing.
Examples:
Minimum TIrce Spacing.
5. Landscaping within right-of-way:
(40+40).8 12'
Min Spacing
(4%15).8 = 22'
Min Spacing
6/2/05
a. If the unimproved street right-of-way is ten feet (10') or greater from
edge of pavement to edge of sidewalk or property line, and street
widening project is not in the Transportation Authority's 5 -year funded
plan, developer shall maintain a ten- (10) foot -wide compacted gravel
shoulder meeting the construction standards of the Transportation
Authority and landscape the remainder with lawn or other vegetative
groundcover.
b. Landscaping improvements within the right-of-way shall require a
license agreement between the property owner and the
Transportation Authority.
6. Impervious surfaces: Allowed impervious surfaces within the landscape
buffer include driveways, signs and walkways. Vehicle display pads and
other related impervious surfaces are prohibited in the required buffer.
8 Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
7. Berms in street buffers: Berm design is subject to the provisions in accord
with subsections 11 -3B -5.L of this Article.
8. Stormwater detention: Stormwater swales may be incorporated into the
buffer in accord with subsection 11-313-11. of this Article. Other stormwater
detention and retention facilities shall not be permitted in the street buffer,
except along 1-84.
11-3B-8: PARKING LOT LANDSCAPING:
A. Purpose: The purpose of perimeter and internal parking lot landscaping is to
soften and mitigate the visual affect of a large expanse of asphalt in parking
lots. Landscaping can also reduce summer heat gain in parking areas and
define pedestrian ways.
B. Applicability: The requirements for perimeter and internal lot landscaping
shall apply to all commercial, industrial and multifamily development, with the
following exceptions:
1. Industrial exclusion: Parking spaces adjoining loading areas in the I -L and
I -H districts are excluded from the interior landscape requirements.
2. Reconstruction of existing parking lots: Reconstruction of existing parking
lots shall require a Certificate of Zoning Compliance in accord with Chapter
5 ADMINISTRATION of this Title to demonstrate conformance with the
following standards:
a. For restriping parking lot overlays with no increase in the square footage
of the parking area, or parking lot replacement less than twenty-five
percent (25%), no additional landscaping shall be required.
b. For parking lot replacement that is twenty-five to fifty percent (25 to 50%)
of the parking area, Perimeter and Right-of-way Landscaping as required
by the Article shall be installed.
3. For parking lot replacement that is greater than fifty percent (50%) of the
parking area, all current landscape standards of the Article shall be met.
4. If the location of existing buildings or other structures prevents
conformance with the requirements of this section, or if its implementation
would create a nonconformity with parking standards, the Director shall
determine how this Article is to be applied through the Alternative
Compliance process.
Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
C. Standards:
1. For perimeter landscaping: The following standards apply to all interior lot
lines, side or rear, adjacent to parking lots or other vehicular use areas,
including driveways:
a. Provide a five- (5) foot minimum perimeter landscape buffer along all
interior lot lines that are adjacent to parking, loading, or other paved
vehicular use areas, including driveways, vehicle sales areas, truck
parking areas, bus parking areas, and vehicle storage areas. This
requirement may be reduced at the determination of the Director where
there is a shared driveway with an adjacent property.
b. Landscaping: The perimeter landscape buffer shall be planted with one
(1) tree per thirty-five (35) lineal feet and shrubs, lawn, or other
vegetative groundcover.
Encroachments: Structures less than 120 square feet, including but not
limited, to trash enclosures and storage sheds, may encroach into the
perimeter landscape buffer.
2. For internal landscaping: Interior parking lot landscaping shall be required
on any parking lot with more than twelve (12) spaces. The following
standards apply to internal landscaping:
a. Planter size: Landscape planters shall contain a minimum of fifty (50)
square feet, and the planting area shall not be less than five feet (5') in
any dimension, measured inside curbs. The only exception to the five-
foot minimum dimension is at the tip of triangular planters located at the
end of rows of angled parking.
b. Parking spaces: No linear grouping of parking spaces shall exceed
twelve (12) in a row, without an internal planter island. The planter island
shall run the length of the parking space and may be reduced by two feet
(2') to allow for improved vehicular maneuvering.
c. Parking lot layout: Interior landscaping shall, insofar as possible, be used
to delineate and guide major traffic movement within the parking area so
as to prevent cross -space driving. Interior landscape planters shall be
spaced as evenly as feasible and at the ends of rows of parking
throughout the lot to consistently reduce the visual impact of long rows of
parked cars.
Trees required: Each interior planter that serves a single row of parking
spaces shall be landscaped with at least one (1) tree and shall be
covered with low shrubs, lawn, or other vegetative groundcover. Each
interior planter that serves a double row of parking spaces shall have at
least two (2) trees and shall be covered with low shrubs, lawn, or other
vegetative groundcover. Deciduous shade trees shall be pruned to a
10 Chapter 3 ArtiCle B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
minimum height of eight feet (8') above the adjacent parking areas.
Evergreen trees and Class III trees are prohibited in interior planters.
e. Design flexibility: In parking areas where the strict application of this
subsection 11 -3B -7C will seriously limit the function and circulation of the
lot, up to fifty percent (50%) of the required landscaping may be located
near the perimeter of the paved area to emphasize entrance corridors or
special landscape areas within the general parking area. Such required
interior landscaping that is relocated shall be in addition to perimeter
landscape and right-of-way screening requirements.
11-3B-9: BUFFERS BETWEEN LAND USES:
A. Purpose: The landscape requirements in this section are intended to ensure
that incompatible, adjoining land uses are adequately protected and are
provided an appropriate amount of land separation to conduct permitted
uses without causing adverse impact.
B. Applicability: The landscape buffer is required in the C -N, C -C, C -G, and L-0
districts on any parcel sharing a contiguous lot line with a residential land
use. The landscape buffer is required in the I -L and I -H districts on any
property sharing a contiguous lot line with a nonindustrial use.
C. Standards:
1. Buffer materials: The materials within the required buffer between
incompatible land uses are regulated as follows:
a. Mix of materials: All buffer areas shall be comprised of, but not limited to,
a mix of evergreen and deciduous trees, shrubs, lawn, or other
vegetative groundcover. Fences, walls and berms may also be
incorporated into the buffer area.
Barrier effectiveness: The required buffer area shall result in a barrier
that allows trees to touch at the time of the tree maturity.
c. Buffer wall and/or fence: Where existing or proposed adjacent land uses
cannot be adequately buffered with plant material(s), the City may
require inclusion of a wall, fence, or other type of screen that mitigates
noise and/or unsightly uses. If a wall or fence at least six feet (6) tall is
provided, the planting requirement may be reduced to at least one tree
per 35 lineal feet, plus shrubs, lawn, or other vegetative groundcover.
d. Chainlink Fencing: Chainlink fencing with or without slats does not
qualify as a screening material. Except in the I -L and I -H districts,
chainlink or cyclone fencing is prohibited within required buffers between
different land uses. Chainlink may be used beyond the required buffer.
11 Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
2. Minimum buffer size: The size of the buffer is determined by the district in
which the property is located. The tables of dimensional standards for each
district in accord with Chapter 2 DISTRICT REGULATIONS of this Title
establish the minimum buffer size.
3. Pedestrian access: Landscape buffers shall facilitate pedestrian access
from residential development to abutting commercial districts and vice
versa.
4. Relationship to parking lot perimeter requirements: All buffers between
different land uses may include any required perimeter parking lot
landscape buffers (see subsection 11 -3B -9B) when calculating the
minimum width of the buffer.
5. Buffers along planned pathways: All commercial, industrial, and
employment developments shall provide a five-foot- (6) wide minimum
buffer adjacent to any planned pathways in the City's Comprehensive Plan
or Park System Master Plan. The buffer shall be planted with a minimum of
one (1) tree per thirty-five (35) lineal feet.
6. Open water ponds: Aesthetically designed open water ponds and holding
areas may comprise up to twenty-five percent (25%) of a required open
space area. All ponds with a permanent water level shall meet the
following standards:
a. The pond shall have recirculated water.
b. The pond shall be maintained such that it does not become a mosquito
breeding ground.
11-38-10: TREE PRESERVATION:
A. Purpose: The regulations of this section are intended to preserve existing
trees four -inch (4") caliper or greater from destruction during the
development process.
B. Applicability: Tree preservation is required in all districts.
C. Standards:
1. Site plans: Site plans shall make all feasible attempts to maintain existing
trees four -inch (4") caliper or greater within their design.
2. Landscape plan: All existing trees greater than four -inch (4") caliper shall
be shown on the landscape plan. Indicate whether each tree is to be
retained or removed. Include on the plan a description of how existing
trees to be retained are to be protected during construction.
12 Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
3. Protection during construction: Existing trees that are retained shall be
protected from damage to bark, branches, and roots during construction.
The City of Meridian Parks Department arborist shall approve the
protection fence(s) prior to construction. Any severely damaged tree shall
be replaced in accord with subsection 11 -3B -10.C.5 of this Article.
4. Construction within the dripline of existing trees: Construction, excavation,
or fill occurring within the drip line of any existing tree shall be avoided.
Specific requirements for construction within the dripline of existing trees
are as follows:
a. Paving: Whenever possible, impervious paving surfaces shall remain
outside of the dripline of existing trees. When it is not possible,
impervious surfaces shall be allowed at a distance from the trunk of a
retained tree equal to the diameter of the tree trunk plus five feet (6).
b. Grade changes: Grade changes greater than six inches (6") are
prohibited within the dripline of existing trees.
c. Compaction: A fence or barrier that encloses the entire area beneath the
tree canopy shall be in place prior to construction.
Utilities: New underground utilities to be placed within the dripline of
existing trees shall be installed in accord with subsection 11 -3B -5.J.3 of
this Article.
5. Mitigation:
a. Mitigation shall be required for all existing trees four -inch (4") caliper or
greater that are removed from the site with equal replacement of the total
calipers lost on site up to an amount of one hundred percent (100%)
replacement. (Example: two (2) 10 -inch caliper trees removed may be
mitigated with four (4) 5 -inch caliper trees, five (5) 4 -inch caliper trees, or
seven (7) 3 -inch caliper trees.)
b. No mitigation is required in the following: (a) existing prohibited trees
within the street buffer or parking lot; (b) existing dead, dying, or hazard
trees certified prior to removal by the City of Meridian Parks Department
arborist; (c) trees that are required to be removed by another
governmental agency having jurisdiction over the project.
6. Required landscaping: Existing trees that are retained or relocated on site
may count toward the required landscaping. Mitigation trees are in addition
to all other landscaping required by this Article.
13 Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
19-911DR
7. Incentives: The Director may allow a reduction up to ten percent (10%) of
the required parking spaces to accommodate existing trees through the
Alternative Compliance process in accord with Chapter 5 ADMINISTRATION
of this Title. Approval of the reduction in required parking shall be obtained
in writing prior to submittal of plans.
11-3B-11: STORMWATER INTEGRATION:
A. Purpose: The regulations of this section are intended to improve water
quality and provide a natural, effective form of flood and water pollution
control through the integration of vegetated, well-designed stormwater
filtration swales into required landscape areas, where topography and
hydrologic features allow.
B. Applicability: The standards for stormwater integration shall apply to all
subdivisions, site improvements and ACHD stormwater facilities.
C. Standards
1. Stormwater swales incorporated into required landscape areas shall be
vegetated with grass or other appropriate plant materials. The maximum
slope shall be 3:1. Such swales shall also be designed to accommodate
the required number of trees as per Section 11-313-7 if located in a street
buffer or other required landscape area.
2. A rock sump may be incorporated into a vegetated swale to facilitate
drainage. The rock sump inlet may not exceed more than five feet (5) in
any horizontal dimension. Grates for sand/grease interceptors may also be
incorporated, but the inlet structures may not exceed two feet (2') in any
horizontal dimension.
3. Gravel, rock, or cobble stormwater facilities are not permitted on the
surface of required landscape areas, unless designed as a dry creek bed
or other design feature.
4. Plant materials shall be a species that are able to withstand the anticipated
changes in soil wetness and moisture levels.
5. Organic mulch shall not be used against drainage catch basins because of
potential sediment clogging.
6. Slopes shall be less than 3:1 (horizontal: vertical) for accessibility and
maintenance.
7. The stormwater facility shall be designed free -draining with no standing
water within 24 hours of the completion of a storm event.
11-313-12: MICRO PATHWAY LANDSCAPING:
14 Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
A. Purpose: The purpose of this section is to promote trees and other
landscaping along micro pathways developed within the City. The required
landscaping will provide shade and visual interest along the micro pathways.
B. Applicability: Whenever micro pathways are installed, the landscaping
standards within this section shall apply.
C. Standards:
1. Planter width: A landscape strip a minimum of five feet (5') wide shall be
provided along either side of the micro pathway. Designs are encouraged
in which the landscape buffers alternates along either side of the micro
pathway and provides additional width to allow trees to be planted farther
from the pathway, preventing root damage to the path.
2. Required plants: The landscape buffers shall be planted with a minimum of
one (1) deciduous tree per thirty-five (35) linear feet of either side of the
micro pathway and shrubs, lawn, or other vegetative ground cover.
3. Improvements: The pathways shall be paved with two (2) inches of
asphaltic concrete or equivalent.
4. Tree branching height: Trees along the pathway shall be pruned with a
clear branching height of at least eight feet (8') above the path surface.
5. Shrub height: Shrubs are limited to three feet (3') high or less at mature
size to allow for safety provisions and sight distance.
6. Mulch: The solitary use of mulches, such as bark alone without vegetative
ground covers, is prohibited. Mulch under the trees and shrubs is required
in accord with subsection 11-313-3.1-1. of this Article.
7. Prohibited trees: No evergreen trees or Class III trees shall be planted
within the required landscape strip because of safety, sight distance, and
maintenance concerns.
8. Fences: See Section 11 -3A -8G of this Title for micro pathway fencing
standards.
11-3B-13: LANDSCAPE MAINTENANCE:
A. Purpose: The regulations of this section are intended to ensure that all
required landscaping is maintained in a healthy, growing condition at all
times.
B. Applicability: The requirement for landscape maintenance applies in all
districts where landscaping has been required.
15 Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
C. Standards:
1. Responsibility: The property owner is responsible for the maintenance of
all landscaping and screening devices required by this Article.
2. Topping prohibited: Topping any street tree required by this Article is
prohibited.
3. Tree grates: Tree grates shall be widened to accommodate the growing
tree trunk and prevent girdling of any trees planted in tree wells within
sidewalks or other public right-of-way.
4. Dead and diseased plant materials: Plant materials that exhibit evidence of
insect pests, disease, and/or damage shall be appropriately treated to
correct the problem. Dead plant materials shall be replaced.
5. Inspections: All landscaping required by this subsection may be subject to
periodic inspections by City officials to determine compliance or to
investigate.
11-36-14: INSTALLATION:
A. Certificate of completion: A written certificate of completion shall be prepared
by the landscape architect, landscape designer or qualified nurseryman
responsible for the landscape plan upon completion of the landscape
installation. The Certificate of Completion shall verify that all landscape
improvements, including plant materials and sprinkler installation, are in
substantial compliance with the approved landscape plan.
.1
Installation schedule:
All required landscaping, irrigation systems and site features shall be
installed according to the approved landscape plan prior to issuance of a
final Certificate of Occupancy.
2. Private site improvements that are above and beyond the requirements
placed on the development do not require completion prior to occupancy.
(For example a clubhouse in a residential development need not be
completed prior to occupancy of residences in the development).
3. For final plats, all landscape buffers along streets, with the exception of
local streets, shall be installed prior to signature on the final plat. Street
buffers on local streets may be installed at the time of the lot development;
installation of such improvements shall not be required at the time of plat
approval.
16 Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
C. Extension of time for installation: The Director may issue a Temporary
Certificate of Occupancy for a specified time period, not to exceed one
hundred eighty (180) days when:
Due to weather or other circumstances, the landscaping or other required
site amenities cannot be completed; and
2. The applicant has bonded for the required improvements consistent with
the provisions of Chapter 5 Article C. SURETY AGREEMENTS of this Title.
17 Chapter 3 Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
CHAPTER 3
REGULATIONS APPLYING TO ALL DISTRICTS
ARTICLE C. OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS
ARTICLE C.
SECTIONS:
11-3C-1:
PURPOSE
11-3C-2:
APPLICABILITY
11-3C-3:
PROCESS
11-3C-4:
PARKING USE REGULATIONS
11-3C-5:
DESIGN STANDARDS
11-3C-6:
REQUIRED NUMBER OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES
11-3C-7:
PARKING REDUCTION
11-3C-8:
OFF-STREET LOADING SPACE REQUIREMENTS
11-3C-1: PURPOSE: The purpose of this Article is to provide regulations and
standards for off-street parking and loading facilities with the intent to provide off-
street parking areas, minimize traffic hazards and congestion, and mitigate impacts
on surrounding properties.
11-3C-2: APPLICABILITY: The following standards shall apply to any new
construction, alteration, or moving of a structure or any new or more intense use of
property. The number of off-street parking spaces, as set forth in this Article, shall
be provided for all allowed uses in any district. A greater number of spaces may be
required in any application involving a conditional use permit.
11-3C-3: PROCESS: An off-street parking and loading plan shall be
required as a component of any discretionary permit or applicable building permit.
Such plan shall show the following:
A. The off-street parking and loading plan shall contain the location, size, and
type of all proposed off-street parking and loading facilities.
B. If the proposed development project shall be completed in phases, such
Phases shall be noted on the plan.
11-3C-4: PARKING USE STANDARDS:
A. Required parking spaces shall be used for vehicle parking only.
B. Parking areas for residential dwellings:
1. Parking of one (1) commercial vehicle as defined in Chapter 1 GENERAL
REGULATIONS of this Title per property may be allowed, provided it is
operated by the occupant and used to commute from home to work at an
off-site location or used as part of an approved home occupation.
Chapter 3 Article C. OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
2. Vehicles without current registration shall not be parked or stored on any
residential property other than in an enclosed space.
3. One (1) boat and one (1) travel trailer may be stored in the side or rear
yard.
11-3C-5: DESIGN STANDARDS:
A. Design of parking areas.
1. All parking areas shall be designed and constructed to provide the type
and number of off-street parking spaces required by Section 11-3C-6 of
this Title, and designed as required by this Section.
2. Location of parking spaces relative to structure(s).
a. Parking spaces for all detached residential dwelling units shall be located
on the same lot as the use that they are intended to serve,
b. Parking for attached residential dwelling units shall be located not more
than three hundred feet (300')from the structure(s), except as provided
by Section 11-3C-7.
c. Parking spaces for nonresidential uses shall be located not more than
five hundred feet (500') from structure(s), except as provided by Section
11-3C-7.
d. For any vertically integrated residential project, not more than ten
percent (10%) of the required parking shall be located in the front of the
structure.
3. Off-street parking spaces shall not be located in any landscape buffer as
required by Article B. LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS of this Chapter.
4. Parking lots shall be designed in accord with Section 11-313-8 PARKING LOT
LANDSCAPING of this Chapter.
5. Parking stalls and driving aisles shall be designed in accord with the
standards in Table 11-3C-1. Figure 8 shows the parking design
dimensions.
6. All required parking as determined in Section 11-3C-6 shall be designed
for standard vehicles. Compact stalls are discouraged, but may be used for
any parking above the number of required parking spaces.
7. All parking areas shall provide on-site turnarounds in accord with the
Meridian Fire Department standards for all off-street parking spaces and
loading facilities.
2 Chapter 3 Article C. OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
8. The design of off-street parking areas shall not require moving any car to
gain access to a required parking space.
9. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the parking lot design
meets all American with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.
TABLE 11-3C-1: REQUIRED STALL WIDTH AND LENGTH BY PARKING ANGLE
Q
PARKING, ANAL '
; ' ; T):L WI TH,
��"
,, ±.
"DNE .WAY DRIVE
AISLE**
0° (parallel)
9'-0"
23'-0"
12'-0"
45°
10'-0"
15-0"
134"
60°
9'-0"
18-0"
17'-0"
90°
9'-0"
19'-0"
25'-0"
*"stalls designe#fo vehicles may be reduced
-he;a minloui of
" laet;V).
1 Iti *th.
FIGURE 8: PARKING SPACE AND DRIVE AISLE DESIGN
4M D
8
Angled Parking 00 Degree Parking 0 Degree Parking
one -Way Drive Aisle Two -Way Drive Aisle One -Way Drive Aisle
Improvements.
Except as otherwise provided in this Section, all off-street parking areas
and driveways into and through a parking area shall be improved with a
compacted gravel base, not less than four inches (4") thick, surfaced with
dustless material, including but not limited to, asphalt, concrete, pavers,
bricks, or recycled asphalt. This standard shall not apply to temporary
uses.
3 Chapter 3 Article C. OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
2. All parking and loading areas shall provide proper drainage of surface
water to prevent the drainage of such water onto adjacent properties or
walkways.
3. Except as otherwise provided in this Section, all off-street parking areas
shall be provided with a substantial wheel restraint to prevent cars from
encroaching upon abutting private and public property or overhanging
beyond the designated parking stall dimensions. This standard shall not
apply to temporary uses.
4. When a bumper overhangs onto a sidewalk or landscape area, the parking
stall dimensions may be reduced two feet (2') in length if two feet (2') is
added to the width of the sidewalk or landscaped area planted in ground
cover.
5. Parking spaces and access lanes shall be marked, including handicapped
symbols and signs.
6. All lighting provided to illuminate a parking area shall comply with the
lighting standards provided in Article A. STANDARD REGULATIONS IN ALL
DISTRICTS of this Chapter.
7. All landscaping improvements shall comply with Article B. LANDSCAPING
REQUIREMENTS of this Chapter.
C. Bicycle parking facilities shall meet the following location and design
standards:
1. Bicycle parking facilities shall be located as close as possible to the
building entrance(s).
2. Bicycle parking facilities shall not obstruct pedestrian walkways, public
sidewalks, or building entrances.
3. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the bicycle parking
facilities meet all American with Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements.
4. Bicycle parking facilities shall support the bicycle and allow the owner to
lock the frame and front wheel with one lock.
D. The Director may approve, or recommend approval of, an alternative off-
street parking and loading plan, through the Alternative Compliance process
when the overall design, as proposed by the applicant, meets or exceeds the
intent and the requirements of this Article and shall not be detrimental to the
public health, safety, and welfare. Mitigating circumstances might include,
but not be limited to access to, an adequate public transit system and/or an
unusually low parking demand.
11-3C-6: REQUIRED NUMBER OF OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES:
4 Chapter 3 Article C. OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS
6/2/05
A. The minimum number of required off-street vehicle parking spaces for
residential uses shall be in accord with Table 11-3C-2.
TABLE 11-3C-2: REQUIRED PARKING SPACES FOR RESIDENTIAL USE
B. There shall be no specified standard for required off-street vehicle parking
spaces for nonresidential uses. In circumstances where there would appear
to be a public safety issue, the Director may request additional information
from the applicant to determine if there is sufficient parking. When in the
determination of the Director there is insufficient parking, the applicant shall
provide alternatives to on-site parking as set forth in Section 11-3C-7 of this
Title. The determination by the Director shall be based on the following
criteria:
1. The specific use(s) proposed and/or on the property;
2. Uses in the vicinity of the property;
3. A traffic study, if prepared, forecasting the expected traffic and parking
needs expected from the use(s);
4. The availability of on -street, shared, and/or public parking within the
vicinity of the use; and/or
5. The availability of public transit, van pooling or other alternative
transportation to serve the use.
5 Chapter 3 Article C. OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS
A KING SPACES*
Dwelling, multifamily
1 bedroom
2 per dwelling unit,1 in enclosed garage
more than 1 bedroom
2 per dwelling unit in an enclosed garage
age -restricted elderly housing
.5 per dwelling unit
Dwelling, secondary
1 per dwelling unit
Dwelling, single-family attached
1 bedroom
2 per dwelling unit, 1 in enclosed garage
more than 1 bedroom
2 per dwelling unit in an enclosed garage
Dwelling, single-family detached
2 per dwelling unit in an enclosed garage
Dwelling, townhouse
1 bedroom
2 per dwelling unit,1 in enclosed garage
more than Ibedroom
2er dwelli nq unit in an enclosed garage
Dwelling, two-family duplex
1 bedroom
2 per dwelling unit,1 in enclosed garage
more than 1 bedroom
2 per dwellinq unit in an enclosed ara e
")he size of the gar >req i d fpr dwelling units shall ext ft dimensions and shall
t at least ten by tu+ my feet (","Q, "X 201 for a one, sp a tl my by twenty feet (20'X 20)
fpr a m. game.
B. There shall be no specified standard for required off-street vehicle parking
spaces for nonresidential uses. In circumstances where there would appear
to be a public safety issue, the Director may request additional information
from the applicant to determine if there is sufficient parking. When in the
determination of the Director there is insufficient parking, the applicant shall
provide alternatives to on-site parking as set forth in Section 11-3C-7 of this
Title. The determination by the Director shall be based on the following
criteria:
1. The specific use(s) proposed and/or on the property;
2. Uses in the vicinity of the property;
3. A traffic study, if prepared, forecasting the expected traffic and parking
needs expected from the use(s);
4. The availability of on -street, shared, and/or public parking within the
vicinity of the use; and/or
5. The availability of public transit, van pooling or other alternative
transportation to serve the use.
5 Chapter 3 Article C. OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS
IS -9014i
C. Upon any change of use, the number of vehicle parking spaces to be
provided shall be calculated according to the requirements of this Article for
the new use.
D. It is the responsibility of the applicant to ensure that the size and number of
handicap accessible spaces meets all American with Disabilities Act (ADA)
requirements.
E. The required vehicle parking spaces shall be provided and continuously
maintained.
F. No required parking area or space provided, as required by this Article, shall
later be eliminated, reduced, or converted in any manner unless other
equivalent facilities approved by the Director are provided.
G. One (1) bicycle parking space shall be provided for every twenty-five (25)
vehicle parking spaces, except for single family residences, two-family
duplex, and townhouses.
11-3C-7: STANDARDS FOR ALTERNATIVES TO ON-SITE PARKING:
Alternatives to providing on-site parking as set forth in this Section are encouraged
in all developments. When required to meet minimum parking standards of Section
11 -3C -6B, alternatives shall include but not limited to, shared -use facilities, access
to transit and availability of other forms of transportation such as carpool and van
pools.
A. Conditions favorable to providing alternatives to on-site parking are as
follows:
1. Shared use:
a. There are convenient pedestrian connections between separate
properties;
b. The properties and/or uses are within 1,000 feet of each other;
c. The principal operating hours of the uses are not in substantial conflict
with one another; and
d. Directional signs provide notice of the availability of parking.
2. Alternative transportation:
a. There is a transit stop within % mile of the use; or
b. There is an incentive program for carpooling, van pooling, or transit
supported by the employer.
6 Chapter 3 Article C. OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS
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B. Where alternative modes of transportation are available, on-site parking may
be reduced by an equivalent amount to the demand that is met by the
alternative transportation mode, as documented in a transportation plan
prepared by a registered engineer.
C. Agreement:
1. All parties involved with the shared -use parking area shall submit a written
agreement to the Director, signed by the applicable parties involved. The
agreement shall specify the following:
a. Party or parties responsible for construction; and
b. Party or parties responsible for maintenance.
2. The applicant or owner shall record such agreement with the Ada County
Recorder prior to issuance of any permits.
3. The shared -use parking agreement may be terminated by the parties only
if off-street parking is provided in conformance with this Article and
approved by the Director prior to the termination.
11-3C-8: OFF-STREET LOADING SPACE REQUIREMENTS:
A. Off-street loading spaces for commercial and industrial uses shall be
Provided in accord with Table 8-4G-3.
TABLE 8-4G-3: REQUIRED LOADING SPACES BY GROSS FLOOR AREA
__w%yQo rr r*, A•t� 1 KE D NUMBER OF SPACES
0 to 36,000 1 Type B
36,001 to 100,000 1 Type A and 1 Type B
Each additional 75,000 or fraction thereof 1 additional Twe A
B. Type A spaces shall be not less than 12 feet in width and 35 feet in length.
Type B spaces shall be not less than 15 feet in width and 65 feet in length.
All spaces shall have 14 feet of vertical clearance.
C. Parking and loading areas shall be designed so vehicles shall not back out
into the street.
D. No off-street loading space shall be located closer than fifty feet (50') to an
abutting rural or residential district unless wholly enclosed within a sound
attenuating structure, such as masonry block. No off-street loading space
shall face an abutting residential district.
7 Chapter 3 Article C. OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS
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E. Any off-street loading space located within fifty feet (50') feet of a residential
district shall not operate between the hours of 10:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m.
Chapter 3 Article C. OFF-STREET PARKING AND LOADING REQUIREMENTS
A
JFXIR
CHAPTER
REGULATIONS APPLYING TO ALL DISTRICTS
ARTICLE D. SIGN REQUIREMENTS
ARTICLE D.
SECTIONS:
11-3D-1:
PURPOSE
11-3D-2:
APPLICABILITY
11-3D-3:
PROHIBITED SIGNS
11-3D-4:
PROCESS
11-3D-5:
GENERAL STANDARDS
11-3D-6:
STANDARDS FOR TEMPORARY SIGNS
11-30-7:
STANDARDS FOR PERMANENT SIGNS ALLOWED WITHOUT A PERMIT
11-3D-8:
STANDARDS FOR PERMANENT SIGNS ALLOWED WITH A PERMIT
11-3D-9:
PLANNED SIGN PROGRAM
11-3D-10
STANDARDS BY ZONING DISTRICT:
11-3D-1: PURPOSE: The regulations of this Article are intended to:
A. Require architectural and aesthetic harmony for signs as they relate to
building design and surrounding landscaping.
B. Regulate sign size, height, and quality of signs, which will allow for good
visibility for the public and the needs of business while providing for the
health and safety of the public by minimizing distractions to motorists and
pedestrians.
C
D
E
F
Regulate signs that will be compatible with the building, site conditions and
land uses the signs are intended to identify.
Require the maintenance of existing signs and provide for a program of
bringing nonconforming signs into conformance with the standards of this
Article as changes are made to the sign or business.
Set forth procedures that will facilitate the efficient processing of sign
applications.
Establish design criteria that will promote attractive and effective signs for
Meridian residents, businesses, employees and visitors.
1 Chapter 3 Article D. SIGN REQUIREMENTS