§ 175-34Special exception intent.
§ 175-35Procedure for use by special exception.
§ 175-36General requirements and standards.
To allow certain authorized uses in the Township to be permitted by special exception procedure so that the Township can provide specific criteria and standards for selected developments.
The Zoning Hearing Board shall hear and decide requests for special exceptions in accordance with the procedures of Article XI, Administration and Enforcement.
The Zoning Hearing Board shall grant a special exception only if it finds adequate evidence that any proposed development will meet all of the following general requirements as well as any specific requirements and standards listed herein. The Zoning Hearing Board shall, among other things, require that any proposed use and location be:
In accordance with the Comprehensive Plan and is consistent with the spirit, purposes and the intent of this chapter.
In the best interests of the Township, the convenience of the community, the public welfare, and be a substantial improvement to the property in the immediate vicinity.
Suitable for the property in question, and designed, constructed, operated and maintained so as to be in harmony with and appropriate in appearance to the existing or intended character of the general vicinity.
In conformance with all applicable requirements of this chapter and all of the Township ordinances.
Suitable in terms of effects on highway traffic and safety with adequate access arrangements to protect streets from undue congestion and hazard.
The applicant shall have the duty of initial presentation of evidence and the burden of persuasion with respect to proving that the proposed use is permitted by a special exception and with respect to proving all applicable requirements of this article, except for Subsections A, B and C. The applicant shall have the burden of persuasion with respect to Subsection B. As to Subsections A and C, the protestant shall have both the duty of initial presentation of evidence and the burden of persuasion.
