[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
The standards and requirements outlined herein shall be considered
minimum safety standards and requirements for the promotion of the
public health, morals, and general welfare.
2.
Where literal compliance with the standards herein specified is clearly
impractical, the Board of Supervisors may modify or adjust the standards
to permit reasonable utilization of property while securing substantial
conformance with the objectives of these regulations.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
All portions of a tract being subdivided shall be taken up in lots,
streets, public lands or other proposed uses so that remnants and
landlocked areas shall not be created.
2.
Reserve strips controlling access to lots, public rights-of-way,
public lands or adjacent private lands shall be prohibited unless
their control is definitely placed with the Township under conditions
approved by the Board of Supervisors.
3.
In general, lot lines shall follow Township boundary lines rather
than cross them.
4.
Where trees, groves, waterways, scenic points, historic spots or
other community assets and landmarks are located within a proposed
subdivision or land development, every possible means to the fullest
extent shall be provided to preserve these features.
5.
Subdivisions or land developments shall be properly designed in order
to prevent the necessity for excessive cut or fill.
6.
Land subject to flooding or other hazards to life, health, or property
and land deemed to be topographically unsuitable shall not be subdivided
or developed for residential occupancy or for such other uses as may
endanger health, life, or property, or aggravate erosion or flood
hazards until all such hazards have been eliminated or unless adequate
safeguards against such hazards are provided by the final plans. Such
land within a subdivision or land development shall be set aside on
the plan for uses that will not be endangered by periodic or occasional
inundation or will not produce unsatisfactory living conditions.
7.
Where flooding is known to have occurred within the area shown on
the plan, such area shall be clearly marked "subject to periodic flooding"
and no building or street shall be permitted in this area.
8.
Areas provided or reserved for community facilities, such as churches,
libraries, schools, parks, playgrounds, shopping and local business
centers, should be adequate to provide for building sites, landscaping,
and off-street parking as appropriate to the use proposed. The Board
of Supervisors reserves the right to accept or refuse offers of dedication
for public use.
9.
All design and construction specifications which are not specifically
listed in this chapter shall be those specified in the Pennsylvania
Department of Transportation's Publication 408 Specifications
and Roadway Construction Standards, or as may be amended.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Subdivision and land development proposals and submissions must be
in conformance with the following:
A.
The proposals in the Warminster Township Comprehensive Plan for the
area in which the submission is located.
B.
The requirements in Chapter 27, Zoning, for the district in which the submission is located, and for the use requirements for which the land is to be developed.
C.
The character of existing development near the location of the submission.
The submission shall be complementary to the surrounding uses, and
shall be laid out so that the best possible integration of existing
and proposed streets and building orientations is achieved.
2.
A finding by the Board of Supervisors that the submission does not
conform to one or more of the above location criteria shall be sufficient
reason for denying approval of the submission.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
The arrangement, character, extent, grade, and location shall conform
to the Warminster Township Street Plan and shall be considered in
their relation to existing and planned streets, to topographical conditions,
to public convenience and safety, and in their appropriate relation
to the proposed uses of the land to be served by such streets.
2.
Proposed streets shall further conform to such county and state street
and highway plans as have been prepared.
3.
Where such is not in the Warminster Township Street Plan, the arrangement
of streets in a subdivision or land development shall either provide
for the continuation or appropriate projection of existing principal
streets in surrounding areas, or conform to a plan for the neighborhood
approved or adopted by the Board of Supervisors to meet a particular
situation where topographical or other conditions make continuance
or conformance to existing streets impractical.
4.
Residential streets shall be so laid out that their use by through
traffic will be discouraged; however street connectivity for local
residents shall be considered for access to principal roadways. Warminster
Township Board of Supervisors may require traffic calming measures
as a design requirement on residential streets.
5.
Where a subdivision or land development abuts or contains an existing
or proposed expressway, arterial or collector street, the Board of
Supervisors with the advice of the Planning Commission may require
marginal access streets, reverse frontage lots with screen planting
contained in a nonaccess reservation along the rear property line,
extra deep lots with rear service alleys, or such other treatment
as may be necessary for adequate protection of residential properties
and to afford separation of through and local traffic.
6.
Streets that are extensions of or obviously in alignment with existing
streets shall bear the names of the existing streets. Street names
shall not be repeated, and all street names shall be subject to the
approval of the Board of Supervisors.
7.
If the lots resulting from the original subdivision are large enough
for resubdivision, or if a portion of the tract is not subdivided,
suitable access to street openings for such an eventuality shall be
provided.
8.
Where the subdivision or land development adjoins unsubdivided acreage,
stub streets shall be provided to the boundary lines with temporary
easements for turnarounds.
9.
Private streets are prohibited. They will be approved only if they
are designed to meet public street standards.
10.
Any development located along an existing bus route, or which proposed
new roadways which may be incorporated into a bus route, shall provide
adequate shelters for bus patrons at designated bus stop locations
or as otherwise directed by the Planning Commission.
11.
An applicant who encroaches within the legal right-of-way of a state
highway is required to obtain a highway occupancy permit from the
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Where a subdivision or land development abuts or contains an existing
street of inadequate right-of-way width, a future right-of-way width
shall be indicated on the plan to conform to the below standards.
2.
Provision for additional street width may be required by the Board
of Supervisors in specific cases for:
A.
Public safety and convenience.
B.
Parking in commercial or industrial areas and in areas of high density
residential development.
C.
Widening of existing streets where the minimum width outlined below
does not meet with the specific requirements for the individual street.
D.
At a minimum, existing streets shall receive mill and overlay for
full width of roadway along property frontage.
3.
Streets shall be constructed in accordance with the following requirements:
Minimum Requirements
| |||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Street Classification
|
Right-of-Way
(feet)
|
Cartway
(feet)
|
Curb
|
Sidewalk
| |
Regional arterial
|
100
|
PennDOT
|
Yes
|
Yes
| |
Community arterial
|
100
|
PennDOT/40
|
Yes
|
Yes
| |
Community collector
|
80
|
40
|
Yes
|
Yes
| |
Neighborhood collector
|
60
|
34
|
Yes
|
Yes
| |
Local road/streets
|
50
|
26
|
Yes
|
Yes
| |
Marginal access
|
40
|
20
|
Yes
|
Yes
|
Street Classification:
| |||
---|---|---|---|
Regional arterial:
| |||
York Road (SR 263)
| |||
Street Road (SR 132)
| |||
County Line Road (SR 2038)
| |||
Jacksonville Road (SR 332) between Bristol Road and Street Road
| |||
Community arterial:
| |||
Bristol Road (SR 2025)
| |||
Mearns Road (SR 2077)
| |||
Davisville Road between Street Road and County Line Road
| |||
Jacksonville Road (SR 332) between Street Road and County Line
Road
| |||
Community collector:
| |||
Valley Road
| |||
Norristown Road
| |||
Davisville Road between Bristol Road and Street Road
| |||
Johnsville Boulevard
| |||
Ivyland Road
| |||
Neighborhood collector:
| |||
Acorn Drive
|
Mueller Road
| ||
Carr Way
|
Park Avenue
| ||
Centennial Road
|
Penrose Lane
| ||
Cooper Drive
|
Phillips Road
| ||
Delmont Avenue
|
Roberts Road
| ||
Evergreen Avenue
|
St. David's Avenue
| ||
Henry Avenue
|
Sinkler Road
| ||
Hostman Avenue
|
Sunnemeade Avenue
| ||
Log College Drive
|
Sweetbriar Drive
| ||
Louis Drive
|
Victoria Road
| ||
Madison Avenue
|
Worthington Drive
| ||
Local road/streets:
| |||
All other two-way streets not previously identified.
| |||
Marginal access:
| |||
A secondary street which is parallel to and adjacent to an expressway,
arterial road, or collector road; and which provides access to abutting
properties and protection from through traffic.
|
4.
Minimum street construction standards shall conform to Warminster
Township general specifications for street paving.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Horizontal alignment.
A.
Horizontal curves shall be used when center lines are deflected in
excess of 5°.
C.
A long radius curve shall be preferred in all cases to a series of
curves and tangents.
D.
A minimum tangent length measured at the center line of 100 feet
shall be provided on streets between the PT (point of tangent) of
the first curve and PC (point of curve) of the second curve. Two curves
in reverse direction should be avoided unless joined together without
a minimum one-hundred-foot tangent length, unless used for traffic
calming purposes in residential areas and by approval of the Township
Engineer.
E.
Curves within arterial and/or collector streets shall be superelevated
in accordance with Pennsylvania Department of Transportation, Design
Manual, Part 2, Highway Design, as amended. On all superelevated areas,
the crown shall be removed and slope shall be uniform from the inside
to the outside of the pavement. Full super elevations will be attained
at the PC and the PT with runouts as indicated in the Design Manual.
The normal grade of the inside edge of the pavement or the center
line of the pavement will be held as a base line from which all superelevation
will be applied. The method to be used shall be as directed by the
Township Engineer.
2.
Sight distance.
A.
The following clear sight triangles shall be provided and maintained
at all intersections, as measured in all directions from center-line
intersections. No existing or proposed structures or plantings, between
two feet and seven feet above road center line shall be permitted
in the clear sight triangle area.
B.
Minimum sight distances shall be maintained at all intersections
and driveways. The minimum acceptable safe stopping sight distance
(SSSD) values shall be computed from the following formula:
SSSD = 1.47VT + (V2)/[30(f + g/100)]
|
Where:
| |||
SSSD
|
=
|
Minimum safe stopping sight distance (feet)
| |
V
|
=
|
85th percentile velocity of vehicle (miles per hour) or 10 mph
over the proposed speed limit
| |
t
|
=
|
Perception time of motorist (average: 2.5 seconds)
| |
f
|
=
|
Coefficient of friction of pavement (see table below)
| |
g
|
=
|
Percent grade of roadway divided by 100
|
85th Percentile Speed
|
Coefficient of Friction
|
Grade =
| ||||
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
-10%
|
-5%
|
0%
|
5%
|
10%
| ||
25
|
0.38
|
166
|
155
|
147
|
140
|
135
|
30
|
0.35
|
230
|
210
|
196
|
185
|
177
|
35
|
0.34
|
299
|
269
|
249
|
233
|
221
|
40
|
0.32
|
389
|
345
|
314
|
291
|
274
|
45
|
0.31
|
487
|
425
|
383
|
353
|
330
|
50
|
0.30
|
600
|
517
|
462
|
422
|
392
|
55
|
0.30
|
706
|
605
|
538
|
490
|
454
|
60
|
0.29
|
852
|
721
|
634
|
573
|
528
|
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
A minimum grade of 1% shall be established on all streets. A lesser
grade may be used with prior approval of the Township Engineer.
2.
A maximum grade of 5% shall generally apply to enable the installation
of ADA compliant sidewalks. In hilly areas, a maximum grade of 6%
on collector and primary streets and 10% on secondary streets for
a maximum distance of 1,500 feet will be permitted, subject to approval
by the Township Engineer.
3.
A combination of minimum horizontal curve radii and maximum grades
shall not be approved.
4.
Vertical curves shall be used at changes of grade exceeding 1% and
shall be designed in relation to the extent of grade change and to
provide the following minimum sight distances:
A.
For crests, each four-percent difference in gradient shall use one-hundred-twenty-five-foot
length of curve.
B.
For sags, each four-percent difference in gradient shall use one-hundred-foot
length of curve.
C.
Where the grade of any side street at the approach to an intersection
exceeds 4%, a leveling area shall be provided. Leveling area shall
not be greater than four-percent grade for a minimum distance of 50
feet from the edge of the through cartway.
5.
Maximum grades within 100 feet of the outer perimeter of a turnaround
shall not exceed 4% as measured along the center line of the street.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Multiple intersections involving junction of more than two streets
shall be avoided. Where this proves impossible, such intersections
shall be designed with extreme care for both pedestrian and vehicular
safety and upon approval by Township Engineer.
2.
Streets shall be laid out to intersect as nearly as possible at right
angles. No street shall intersect another street at an angle of less
than 70°.
3.
Proposed streets/roads shall not intersect on the same side of a
major arterial or collector street at an interval of less than 800
feet.
5.
Street curb intersections shall be rounded by a tangential arc with
a minimum radius of 20 feet for secondary or local streets and 30
feet for primary or collector streets.
6.
Streets entering opposite sides of another street, existing or proposed,
shall be laid out either directly opposite one another or with a minimum
offset of 125 feet between their center lines.
7.
The approaches to an intersection shall follow a straight course
for a minimum of 50 feet for secondary (local) streets and a minimum
of 100 feet for arterial and collector streets.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
A cul-de-sac shall not be permitted unless the applicant can
demonstrate to the satisfaction of the Township Engineer that construction
of a through street is infeasible. A cul-de-sac shall be permitted
only upon the approval of the Board of Supervisors subject to the
following minimum standards:
A.
Cul-de-sac streets shall be designed to permit future extension into
adjacent undeveloped property. Unless future extension is clearly
impractical or undesirable, the turnaround right-of-way shall be placed
adjacent to property line and contained within an easement area. A
right-of-way of the same width as the street shall be carried to the
property line in such a way as to permit future extension of the street
into the adjoining tract. At such time as such a street is extended,
the overage created by the turnaround outside the boundaries of the
extended street shall revert in ownership to the property owners fronting
on the cul-de-sac turnaround.
B.
Permanent cul-de-sac streets shall be kept to a minimum and shall
not exceed 500 feet in length or serve as access to more than 12 dwelling
units, whichever is more restrictive, unless specifically authorized
by the Board of Supervisors. The minimum length of a cul-de-sac shall
be 250 feet. For the purposes of this chapter, cul-de-sac length is
measured from the intersection of the proposed right-of-way lines
of the intersecting streets, or in the case of a proposed cul-de-sac
intersecting an existing street, from the intersection of the proposed
right-of-way line and ultimate right-of-way line of the existing street,
to the center of the turnaround area.
C.
Cul-de-sac streets, whether permanent or temporary, shall be provided
with a turnaround at the closed end having a minimum radius to the
edge of the finished street or curbline of not less than 40 feet.
Permanent cul-de-sac streets shall be provided at the terminus with
a right-of-way radius of 60 feet.
D.
A planted island may be provided in the center of the cul-de-sac
turnaround, which shall be maintained by a lot owner or homeowners'
association. The planted island shall have a radius of 30 feet with
a twenty-foot-wide cartway around the island. A fifty-foot paving
radii shall be provided to transition the cartway at the entrance
and exit of the turnaround. The turnaround shall be restricted to
one-way traffic. Landscaping of the island shall be subject to the
approval of the Township.
E.
Commercial and industrial cul-de-sac streets shall be reviewed for
adequacy by the Township Engineer. When deemed necessary by the Township
Engineer, additional cartway and/or right-of-way radius may be required.
F.
A snow storage area shall be provided along the right-of-way of the
turnaround. The snow storage area shall be contained within an easement
not less than 15 feet measured from the right-of-way line and of sufficient
length as deemed necessary by the Township to provide adequate snow
storage area.
G.
Prospective purchasers of any property located either entirely or
partially on a temporary cul-de-sac, as defined above, shall be advised
by the owners of such property or their authorized agents or representatives
that such property is so located on a temporary cul-de-sac. Actual
purchasers of any property located either entirely or partially on
a temporary cul-de-sac shall signify, in writing, that they have been
advised that the property to be purchased is either entirely or partially
on a temporary cul-de-sac. A signed copy of such writing shall be
delivered and received by the Township before settlement of the property
takes place.
H.
Drainage, where feasible, shall be toward the open end of the cul-de-sac.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Driveways shall be so located, designed, and constructed as to provide the adequate sight distance, for all anticipated turning movements into and out of the proposed driveway, as discussed previously in § 22-506, Subsection 2, Sight distance. A stopping area, measured 20 feet behind the right-of-way line, shall be provided not to exceed a four-percent grade.
2.
Driveways, where provided, shall be located not less than 40 feet
from the intersection corner of corner lots and shall provide access
to the street of lower classification when a corner lot is bounded
by streets of two different classifications as herein defined.
3.
Driveway entrances for nonresidential and high-density residential
developments may be depressed in order to permit a freer and safer
movement of vehicles.
4.
Minimum design standards for driveways and entrance and exit drives
shall be as follows:
A.
A minimum width of 12 feet for one-way use only.
B.
A minimum width of 25 feet for two-way use.
C.
A maximum width of 35 feet at the street line and 54 feet at the
curbline, unless otherwise approved by the Township Engineer.
[Amended by Ord. 737, 1/19/2017]
D.
A minimum side setback of five feet shall be provided for all residential
driveways. Nonresidential driveways and residential driveways for
more than five vehicles shall be set back a minimum of 15 feet.
5.
An applicant who encroaches within the legal right-of-way of a state
highway, or proposes a change in the use or intensity of use for an
existing driveway, is required to obtain a highway occupancy permit
from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009; as amended by Ord. 737, 1/19/2017]
1.
A drive-through facility is any vehicle-related commercial facility
where a service is provided, or goods, food, or beverages are sold,
to the operator of or passengers in a car without the necessity of
the operator or passengers disembarking from the vehicle. Any facility
which proposes a drive-through or drive-up window as an accessory
facility to a retail, service, financial, eating place, or other use
where customers are served in their vehicles shall be subject to the
following requirements.
2.
General standards. A drive-through facility is subject to the following
standards:
A.
The drive-through facility shall be designed so as not to impede
or impair vehicular and pedestrian traffic movement or exacerbate
the potential for pedestrian/vehicular conflicts.
B.
A drive-through facility with the drive-through service area/facility
located in an existing or proposed shopping center shall have circulation
patterns that are integrated with that of the center.
C.
An on-site circulation pattern is to be provided for drive-through
facility traffic that separates such traffic from that of walk-in/sit
down/takeout patrons.
D.
The driveway entrance and exit lane of a drive-through facility must
be set back at least 100 feet from an intersection.
3.
Drive-through lanes and bypass/escape lanes.
A.
A bypass lane/escape lane shall be provided for all drive-through
facilities.
B.
The drive-through lanes shall not be the sole ingress and egress
to the site.
C.
The design of a drive-through lane and bypass lane/escape lane shall
minimize the blocking, crossing, or passing through of off-street
parking areas and minimize crossing of, or the need to be crossed
by, pedestrian accessways for patrons.
D.
Drive-through lanes shall be marked by signs which indicate the entrance
and exit for the drive-through lane. The direction of traffic flow
for the drive-through lane and bypass lane/escape lane shall be clearly
marked.
E.
Delayed service parking areas shall be located a minimum of 20 feet
from the point where the drive-through lane and bypass lane/escape
lane merge.
4.
Stacking distance.
A.
A stacking area is to be provided for vehicles waiting for service
in the drive-through lane that is separated from other traffic circulation
on the site. Stacking shall not be provided in parking aisles or in
driveways provided for on-site circulation.
B.
The stacking distance shall be as follows:
Use
|
Maximum Number of Vehicles
|
Lane Length
(feet)
| |
---|---|---|---|
Restaurant
|
6
|
132
| |
Bank
|
6
|
132
| |
Car wash
|
10
|
220
| |
Dry cleaner
|
2
|
44
| |
Pharmacy
|
7
|
154
| |
Other uses
|
6
|
132
|
5.
Lane width.
A.
Drive-through lanes are to be separated from the bypass lane/escape
lane and parking aisles by painted lines. The lanes shall be a minimum
of 12 feet wide. If two or more parallel drive-through lanes are provided,
they shall each be a minimum of 10 feet wide.
B.
A bypass lane/escape lane shall be a minimum of 10 feet wide.
6.
Application requirements. A traffic impact study shall be submitted
to provide information which will be used to determine the necessary
stacking area and the impact the proposal will have upon local traffic
circulation. The traffic impact study shall address the following
issues:
A.
Nature of the product or service being offered.
B.
Method by which product or service is being offered (e.g., window
service or brought to vehicle by employee).
C.
Time required to service typical customer.
D.
Arrival rate for patrons.
E.
Peak demand hour.
F.
Anticipated vehicular stacking required.
G.
Anticipated traffic generation.
H.
Diagram of traffic flow, stacking and pedestrian crossings.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Automobile parking facilities shall be provided off street in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 27, Zoning.
2.
Parking space dimensions shall be no less than those listed in the
following table:
Angle of Parking
|
Stall Width
(feet)
|
Stall Length
(feet)
|
Drive Aisle
One-Way
(feet)
|
Drive Aisle
Two-Way
(feet)
| |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
90°
|
9
|
18
|
20
|
24
| |
60°
|
9
|
20
|
18
|
24
| |
45°
|
9
|
19
|
14
|
24
| |
Parallel
|
9
|
22
|
12
|
24
|
The length of the spaces shall be measured perpendicular to
the curb for ninety-degree spaces and parallel to the space for angle
parking.
|
3.
At no time shall angle or perpendicular parking be permitted along
the public streets. All parking lots and bays permitting parking other
than parallel shall be physically separated from the street and confined
by curbing.
4.
Handicapped parking stalls shall be installed in all parking lots
as close and convenient to building entrances as is reasonable. The
specific number and location of handicapped stalls shall meet current
ADA requirements, except where additional spaces are deemed necessary
by the Board of Supervisors, with the advice of the Township Planning
Commission and Engineer.
5.
All dead-end parking lots shall be designed to provide sufficient
back-up area for the end stalls of the parking lot and shall make
provisions for vehicle turnaround in the event the lot is full.
6.
Parking row shall be limited to 12 spaces when single-stacked, 24
spaces if double-stacked. A ten-foot wide, curbed refuge island shall
be provided after a maximum of 12 parking spaces.
7.
So as to eliminate the creation of very large parking areas, the
Township shall have the right to require a division of parking areas
for each 100 cars or fraction thereof. The division may be by a ten-foot
planting strip, a four-foot grade separation, or any combination of
planting strip and grade separation as is deemed appropriate by the
Planning Commission.
8.
Parking areas shall be designed so that each motor vehicle may proceed
to and from the parking space provided for it without requiring the
moving of any other motor vehicle.
9.
No less than a five-foot radius of curvature shall be permitted for
all curblines in all parking areas
10.
Except at entrance and exit drives, all parking areas shall be set
back from the future right-of-way line at least 15 feet. The distance
between this required setback and the future cartway shall be maintained
as a planting strip.
11.
The use of pervious pavement in parking areas, in accordance with Chapter 26, Appendix C,[1] "Pervious Hardscaping Credit Criteria," is encouraged.
The construction of all automobile parking areas not intended to be
pervious shall be in accordance with the Warminster Township Specifications
and Design Standards for Street and Roads.
12.
In vertical or stacked parking structures, the following additional
requirements shall apply:
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
The minimum width of combination sidewalk and curb shall be six feet.
Where the sidewalk and curb are separated by an unpaved section, the
minimum width of the sidewalk alone shall be five feet along all streets,
unless otherwise specified by the Warminster Township Supervisors.
Residential areas shall have a three-foot planting strip between the
curb and sidewalk with a four-foot wide sidewalk, all other areas
to have a three-foot planting strip and five-foot sidewalk. Where
sidewalk width is reduced to four feet, passing areas, five feet by
five feet minimum, shall be provided every 200 feet.
2.
The grades and paving of the sidewalk shall be continuous across
driveways except in nonresidential and high-density residential developments
and in certain other areas where heavy traffic volume dictates special
treatment.
3.
The thickness of all sidewalks shall be constructed in accordance
with the Warminster Township Specifications and Design Standards for
Streets and Roads.
4.
Sidewalks shall be laterally pitched at a slope not less than 1/8
inch per foot to provide for adequate surface drainage and not more
than 2% to provide for accessibility in accordance with PennDOT and
ADA standards.
[Amended by Ord. 737, 1/19/2017]
5.
At corners and pedestrian street-crossing points, sidewalks shall
be extended to the curb with access ramps designed in accordance with
PennDOT and ADA design standards.
6.
Sidewalks shall not exceed a five-percent grade. Steps or a combination
of steps and ramps, designed in accordance with PennDOT and ADA standards,
shall be utilized to maintain the maximum grades.
7.
Sidewalks adjacent to angle-type parking areas shall have sufficient
additional width to permit pedestrian movement beyond the bumper overhang
area.
8.
Sidewalks shall be built in accordance with all the requirements
of the Warminster Township Specifications and Design Standards for
Streets and Roads.
9.
Access ramps shall be provided and constructed in accordance with
Warminster Township general specifications for sidewalk and in accordance
with Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Design Manual and ADA
requirements.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Street name plates shall be of metal construction; all corners shall
be rounded; the lettering shall be of standard proportions and spacing
in accordance with one of the alphabets used by the Pennsylvania Department
of Transportation. The lettering shall be such as required by the
Board of Supervisors. The plates shall be horizontal. The lower edge
of the name plate shall be a minimum of seven feet above the ground
level or curb. The name plate shall be attached to the standard by
rust-proof metal fasteners.
2.
The standard shall be rust-proof metal and shall be of sufficient
length to permit the same to be embedded in the ground a distance
of not less than three feet, as hereinafter provided, and to permit
the lower edge of the street name plate to be a minimum of seven feet
above the ground level or curb, as hereinafter provided. Upon erection,
the standard shall be embedded in a concrete base for a depth of not
less than three feet below the surface of the ground. Suitable backfill
material shall be placed in the hole around the post in successive
layers not exceeding 12 inches in depth, measured loose. Each layer
of backfill shall be thoroughly tamped to secure maximum practical
density so that the post will be plumb and rigid. Posts shall not
be installed in freezing or thawing weather. The standard shall be
of such metal construction as to hold the name plate rigidly in a
proper and permanent position and prevent it from swaying in the wind.
3.
The signs shall be located with a view to making them seen at all
times with a minimum of effort by both pedestrian and vehicular traffic
and as close to the side of the cartway or curb as practical but no
part of the name plate shall be permitted to overhang any part of
the cartway or curb.
4.
Street name plates, standards, installations, and locations shall
be subject to the approval and inspection of the Township Engineer.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
All curbs shall be constructed in accordance with the Warminster
Township Specifications and Design Standards for Streets and Roads.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
The lengths, widths, and shapes of blocks shall be determined with
regard to:
2.
In general, all blocks in a subdivision shall have a minimum length
of at least 500 feet and a maximum length of 1,600 feet.
3.
Whenever practicable, blocks shall be of such width as to provide
two tiers of lots of the minimum size permitted under the applicable
zoning classification, except in the case of lots along a major thoroughfare
where the lot fronts on an interior street.
4.
Modifications of the above requirements are possible in multifamily,
commercial, and industrial developments.
5.
Pedestrian crosswalks, not less than eight feet wide and with flush
curbing not less than five feet wide at each end shall be required
where deemed essential to provide circulation or access to schools,
playgrounds, shopping centers, transportation, and other community
facilities.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
The size, shape, and orientation of lots shall be appropriate for
the location of the subdivision and for the type of development and
use contemplated.
2.
Lot dimensions shall conform to the requirements of Chapter, Zoning.
3.
All lots shall abut on a street. Lots where the front and rear property
lines abut streets shall be prohibited, except in the case of reverse
frontage lots along major thoroughfares.
4.
In general, side lot lines shall be at right angles or radial to
the street line.
5.
The depth and width of lots reserved or laid out for commercial and
industrial uses shall be adequate to provide for off-street parking.
6.
Lots excessively deep in relation to width, or lots excessively irregular
in shape, are to be avoided. A proportion of 2 1/2 in depth to
one in width is generally accepted as a proper maximum.
7.
House numbers shall be assigned in accordance with Township requirements.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Blocks and lots shall be graded to secure proper drainage away from
buildings and to prevent the collection of stormwater in pools.
2.
All drainage provisions shall be of such design as to carry surface
waters to the nearest practical street, storm drain, or natural watercourse.
3.
The owner shall construct and/or install such drainage structures
and/or pipes which are necessary to prevent erosion damage and to
satisfactorily carry off such surface waters.
4.
No excavation shall be made with a cut face steeper in slope than
one horizontal to one vertical, except under one or more of the following
conditions:
A.
The excavation is located so that a line having a slope of one horizontal
to one vertical and passing through any portion of the cut face will
be entirely inside of the property lines of the property on which
the excavation was made.
B.
The material in which the excavation is made is sufficiently stable
to sustain a slope of steeper than one horizontal to one vertical,
and a written statement of an engineer or geologist, licensed by the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and experienced in erosion control and/or
soil mechanics, to that effect is submitted to the Township Engineer
and approved by him. The statement shall state that the site has been
inspected and that the deviation from the slope specified hereinbefore
will not result in injury to persons or damage to property.
C.
A concrete, segmental block, or stone masonry wall, constructed in
accordance with approved standards, is provided to support the face
of the excavation with approval of the Township Engineer.
5.
No fill shall be made which creates any exposed surface steeper in
slope than 1 1/2 horizontal to one vertical except under one
or more of the following conditions:
A.
The fill is located so that settlement, sliding, or erosion will
not result in property damage or be a hazard to adjoining property,
streets, alleys, or buildings.
B.
A written statement from an engineer, licensed by the Commonwealth
and experienced in erosion control and/or soil mechanics, certifying
that he has inspected the site and that the proposed deviation from
the slope specified above will not endanger any property or result
in property damage, is submitted to and approved by the Township Engineer.
C.
A concrete, segmental block, or stone masonry wall, constructed in
accordance with approved standards, is provided to support the face
of the excavation.
6.
The top or bottom edge of slopes shall be a minimum of five feet
from property or right-of-way lines of streets or alleys in order
to permit the normal rounding of the edge without encroaching on the
abutting property.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Easements with a minimum width of 20 feet shall be provided as necessary
for utilities and drainage.
2.
To the fullest extent possible, easements shall be centered on or
adjacent to rear or side lot lines.
3.
Nothing shall be permitted to be placed, planted, set or put within
the area of an easement. The area shall be kept as lawn.
4.
Where a subdivision or land development is traversed by a watercourse, there shall be provided a drainage easement or right-of-way conforming to the requirements of § 22-602, Subsection 8, Riparian buffer. The Township may require such drainageway improvements to effectively improve the quality and character of such drainageway or watercourse.
5.
Where stormwater or surface water will be gathered within the subdivision
or land development and discharged or drained in volume over lands
within or beyond the boundaries of the subdivision or land development,
the applicant or owner shall reserve or obtain easements over all
lands affected thereby, which easements shall be adequate for such
discharge of drainage and for the carrying off of such water and for
the maintenance, repair, and reconstruction of the same, including
the right of passage over and upon the same by vehicles, machines,
and other equipment for such purposes, and which shall be of sufficient
width for such passage and work. The owner shall convey, free of charge
or cost, such easements to the Township upon demand.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009; as amended by Ord. 737, 1/19/2017]
The owner, developer, or subdivider shall provide stormwater management in accordance with Chapter 26, Part 4, Stormwater Management, Chapter 26, Part 5, Neshaminy Creek Watershed Stormwater Management, Pennypack Creek Watershed Stormwater Management Ordinance, and as follows:
A.
Applicability.
(1)
This section shall apply to all areas of Warminster Township.
Regulated activities include:
(a)
Land development.
(b)
Subdivision.
(c)
Construction of new or additional impervious surfaces (driveways,
parking lots, etc.).
(d)
Construction of new buildings or additions to existing buildings.
(e)
Redevelopment.
(f)
Diversion or piping of any natural or man-made stream channel.
(g)
Installation of stormwater systems or appurtenances thereto.
(h)
Prohibited or polluted discharges.
(i)
Alteration of the natural hydrologic regime.
(j)
Nonstructural and structural stormwater management best management
practices (BMPs) or appurtenances thereto.
(2)
Stormwater management design and criteria such as stormwater runoff peak rate requirements and districts, runoff calculation methodology, stormwater management plan requirements, operations and maintenance requirements, etc., shall be as described in this section, the Chapter 26, Part 4, Stormwater Management, Chapter 26, Part 5, Neshaminy Creek Watershed Stormwater Management, and Pennypack Creek Watershed Stormwater Management Ordinance.
(3)
The standards contained in this section shall apply as minimum
design standards; however federal, state, and other Warminster Township
regulations may impose additional standards subject to their jurisdiction.
The more stringent requirements of this section, federal, state, and
other Warminster Township regulations shall apply to any activity
which requires compliance with other ordinances and regulations of
Warminster Township.
(4)
Earth disturbance activities and associated stormwater management
controls are also regulated under existing state law and implementing
regulations. This section shall operate in conjunction with those
parallel requirements; the requirements of this section shall be no
less restrictive in meeting the purposes of this section than state
law.
(5)
No regulated activities within the municipality shall commence
until the requirements of this section and all other applicable stormwater
management criteria are met.
(6)
All best management practices (BMPs) used to meet the requirements
of federal, state, and Warminster Township regulations shall conform
to the state water quality requirements and any more stringent requirements
as set forth by the Township.
(7)
Developers shall construct and/or install stormwater management
facilities, on site and off site, as necessary to meet the stormwater
management design and criteria provided by these and other Warminster
Township requirements and to:
(a)
Prevent erosion damage and to satisfactorily carry off, detain
or retain, and control the rate of release of stormwater.
(b)
Manage the anticipated peak discharge from property being subdivided
or developed and existing runoff being contributed from all land at
a higher elevation in the same watershed.
(c)
Convey stormwater along or through the property to a natural
outfall. If a developer concentrates dispersed stormwater flow or
redirects stormwater flow to exit at another location on the property,
the developer is responsible for constructing an adequate channel
on the adjacent property and on all downstream properties until a
natural outfall is reached.
1)
Natural outfall shall have sufficient capacity to receive stormwater
without deterioration of the facility and without adversely affecting
property in the watershed. This natural outfall may be a river, creek
or other drainage facility so designated by Warminster Township for
the proposed system.
(8)
Additional studies and higher levels of control than the minimum
provided in these and other Warminster Township requirements and criteria
may be required by the Board of Supervisors to ensure adequate protection
to life and property.
B.
Retention of existing watercourses and natural drainage features.
(1)
Whenever a watercourse, stream or intermittent stream is located
within a development site, it shall remain open in its natural state
and location and shall not be piped.
(2)
The existing points of natural drainage discharge onto adjacent
property(ies) shall not be altered without the written approval of
the affected property owners.
(3)
No stormwater runoff or natural drainage shall be so diverted
as to overload existing drainage systems (including existing stormwater
management facilities) or create flooding.
(4)
The Board of Supervisors may require a developer to provide a permanent easement along any watercourse located within or along the boundary of any property being subdivided or developed. The purpose of any such easement shall be for the maintenance of the channel of any watercourse; and the terms of the easement shall prohibit excavation, the placing of fill or structures and any alterations which may adversely affect the watercourse. The easement shall be provided for Zone 1 of the riparian buffer in accordance with § 22-602, Subsection 8. The developer will retain the easement until such time as one of the following is accomplished:
(a)
The easement is offered for dedication by the developer and
accepted by Warminster Township.
(b)
If an easement acceptable to the Township is established, the
maintenance shall then be the responsibility of the individual lot
owners over whose property the easement passes. For land developments,
the maintenance shall then be the responsibility of the owner.
(c)
A homeowners' association or other approved legal entity, approved
by Warminster Township, assumes responsibility for the maintenance
of the development, including the retention of the watercourse easement.
C.
Runoff control measures or best management practices (BMPs).
(1)
Stormwater runoff which may result from regulated activities shall be controlled by permanent stormwater runoff BMPs that will provide the required standards within this section, Chapter 26, Part 4, Stormwater Management, Chapter 26, Part 5, Neshaminy Creek Watershed Stormwater Management, and Pennypack Creek Watershed Stormwater Management Ordinance, or other requirements of Warminster Township. The methods of stormwater control or best management practices (BMPs) which may be used to meet the required standards are described in this section and "Pennsylvania Stormwater Best Management Practices Manual," December 2006, as amended. The choice of BMPs is not limited to those referenced in this section and/or the manual. Any selected BMP must meet or exceed the required standards.
(2)
Any stormwater facility located on state highway rights-of-way
shall be subject to approval by the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation.
(3)
Developers are encouraged to use BMPs other than the minimum
BMPs specified in this subsection, if appropriate, to provide for
additional water quality improvement and groundwater recharge. In
evaluating potential stormwater BMPs, the order of preference shall
be as follows:
(4)
Infiltration best management practices (BMPs). Infiltration
BMPs shall be designed in accordance with the design criteria and
specifications in the PA BMP Manual and shall meet the following minimum
requirements:
(a)
A detailed soils evaluation of the project site shall be performed to determine the suitability of infiltration BMPs per protocol in Chapter 26, Part 4, Stormwater Management, Chapter 26, Part 5, Neshaminy Creek Watershed Stormwater Management, and Pennypack Creek Watershed Stormwater Management Ordinance. The evaluation shall be performed by a qualified professional and, at a minimum, address soil permeability, depth to bedrock, susceptibility to sinkhole formation, and subgrade stability. The site testing shall include adequate sampling of all portions of the site not limited by one-hundered-percent protected natural resources to determine areas of the property which are suitable for infiltration BMPs. The general process for designing infiltration BMPs shall be:
1)
Analyze hydrologic soil groups as well as natural and man-made
features within the site to determine general areas of suitability
for infiltration BMPs.
2)
Provide field testing data at the elevation of the proposed infiltration zone (bottom surface of the infiltration facility) to determine appropriate percolation rate and/or hydraulic conductivity. Field testing guidelines are identified in Appendix B of Chapter 26, Part 4, Stormwater Management, Appendix A of Chapter 26, Part 5, Neshaminy Creek Watershed Stormwater Management, and the Pennypack Creek Watershed Stormwater Management Ordinance.[1]
3)
Design infiltration BMPs for required stormwater volume based
on field-determined capacity per Subsection C(4)(a)2 above.
(b)
Soil characteristics. Subject to the specific considerations
in Subsection C(4)(f) below:
1)
Infiltration BMPs are particularly appropriate in hydrologic
soil groups A and B, as described in the SCS TR-55 Manual.
2)
Low-erodibility factors ('K' factors) are preferred
for the construction of basins.
3)
There shall be an infiltration and/or percolation rate sufficient
to accept the additional stormwater load and to drain completely as
determined by field tests.
4)
A minimum of 10 feet of undisturbed fill or compacted impermeable
material shall separate the foundation wall of any building and an
infiltration BMP.
5)
A minimum of 50 feet of undisturbed fill or compacted impermeable
material shall separate water supply wells and an infiltration BMP.
6)
A minimum of 50 feet shall separate a septic system disposal
area and an infiltration BMP unless specific circumstances allow for
a reduced separation distance.
7)
Infiltration in native soils without prior fill or disturbance
is preferred but not always possible. Areas that have experienced
historic disturbance or fill are suitable for infiltration provided
sufficient time has elapsed and the soil testing indicates that infiltration
is feasible. In disturbed areas it may be necessary to infiltrate
at a depth beneath soils that have previously been compacted by construction
methods or long periods of mowing.
8)
The infiltration system shall have positive overflow controls
to prevent storage within one foot of the finished surface grade.
9)
Surface inflows shall be designed to prevent direct discharge
of sediment into the infiltration system.
(c)
Any infiltration BMP shall be capable of completely infiltrating
the impounded water within 48 hours from the peak of the storm.
(d)
Special attention shall be paid to proper installation of infiltration-oriented
stormwater management systems during construction and to careful avoidance
of soil compaction during site development.
(e)
Caution shall be exercised where salt or chloride would be a
pollutant since soils do little to filter this pollutant, and it may
contaminate the groundwater. Caution shall be exercised where infiltration
is proposed in source water protection areas. The qualified design
professional shall evaluate the possibility of groundwater contamination
from the proposed infiltration/recharge facility and perform a hydrogeologic
justification study if required by the Township Engineer.
(f)
Infiltration BMPs shall be constructed on soils with an infiltration
rate of a minimum of 0.25 inch per hour, including a safety factor
of 50% applied for design purposes (e.g., for soil which measured
0.5 in/hr, the BMP design should use 0.25 in/hr to insure safe infiltration
rates after construction) and shall have the following separation
between the bottom of the facility and seasonal high water table and/or
bedrock and/or groundwater (limiting zones);
1)
For runoff from impervious surfaces associated with residential
land use and/or pervious surface runoff associated with both residential
uses and nonresidential uses: a minimum depth of 36 inches between
the intended bottom of facility and limiting zones.
2)
For runoff from impervious surface associated with nonresidential
uses: a minimum depth of 36 inches between the bottom of facility
and limiting zones. The minimum required separation between the limiting
zone may be increased at the Township's discretion if project
specific conditions, such as anticipated contaminants, dictate greater
prevention of groundwater contamination.
3)
For rooftop runoff: a minimum depth of 24 inches between the
intended bottom of the facility and limiting zones.
(g)
Soils with infiltration rates in excess of 6.0 inches per hour
may require an additional soil buffer, such as an organic layer over
the bed bottom, if the cation exchange capacity (CEC) is less than
five and pollutant loading is expected to be significant.
(h)
All infiltration BMPs shall be designed to, as a minimum:
1)
Provide adequate storage to accommodate the volume of runoff
calculated as the difference between the predevelopment runoff volume
and the post-development runoff volume based on the largest required
design storm.
2)
Control the post-development peak rate of runoff to the predevelopment
peak rate of runoff for design storms greater than one-year, twenty-four-hour
storm.
3)
Provide an overflow or spillway which safely permits the passing
of runoff greater than that occurring during the largest design storm.
(5)
Wet pond and artificial wetland best management practices (BMPs).
(a)
Wet pond and artificial wetland BMPs shall be designed in accordance
with the design criteria and specifications in the PA BMP Manual.
(b)
Artificial wetland facilities shall meet the following minimum
requirements:
1)
At least 80% of the wetland shall be developed as a shallow
water emergent wetland, with a water depth between eight inches and
12 inches. It is recommended that the shallow water emergent wetland
area be separated into high marshes (zero to six inches below normal
water surface) and low marshes (six to 18 inches below normal water
surface). The remainder shall be constructed as open water with depths
between two feet and four feet.
2)
The length of the constructed treatment wetland between the
inflow and outflow points shall be maximized. The minimum length to
width ratio for all wetland systems shall be 3:1. A medial berm may
be used to reduce flow width and improve flow distribution and length.
3)
Constructed treatment wetlands shall be constructed on hydric
or wet soils and/or soils which have an infiltration rate of less
than 0.1 inch per hour. A base flow of 0.10 cfs/50 acres is recommended
for all constructed treatment wetland facilities, unless a source
of recharge is available such as a natural spring or well.
4)
A shallow forebay shall be provided adjacent to all inflow areas,
unless the inflow area provides less than 10% of the total inflow
to the facility. The forebay serves to enhance sediment trapping and
pollutant removal, as well as concentrating accumulated sediment in
an area where it can be readily removed. To create a forebay, a baffle
may be introduced to restrict hydraulic communication between the
inlet and the remainder of the retention basin. The minimum standards
for forebays are as follows:
a)
Minimum length shall be 10 feet.
b)
Sufficient storage volume shall be provided to trap sediment
between clean-out intervals (typically five to 15 years). At a minimum,
the forebay shall be sized to contain 0.25 inch per impervious acre
of contributing drainage.
c)
The forebay shall be three to five feet deep.
d)
The height of the berm or baffle separating the forebay from
the pond shall be one foot below the one-year water surface elevation
or at the normal water surface elevation, whichever is higher.
e)
The forebay shall be accessible and stabilized to accommodate
equipment used in removing accumulated sediment.
5)
A planting plan prepared by a landscape architect shall be developed
for the artificial wetland showing all proposed aquatic, emergent,
and upland plantings. The planting plan shall be developed to provide
a diversity of species resulting in a dense stand of wetland vegetation.
(c)
Retention basins/wet ponds shall meet the following minimum
requirements:
1)
Constructed treatment wetlands shall be constructed on hydric
or wet soils and/or soils which have an infiltration rate of less
than 0.1 inch per hour. A base flow of 0.10 cfs/50 acres is recommended
for all constructed treatment wetland facilities, unless a source
of recharge is available such as a natural spring or well.
2)
The length of the pond between the inflow and outflow points
shall be maximized, and an irregular shoreline shall be provided.
The minimum length to width ratio for all wetland systems shall be
2:1.
3)
A shallow forebay shall be provided adjacent to all inflow areas,
unless the inflow area provides less than 10% of the total inflow
to the facility. The forebay serves to enhance sediment trapping and
pollutant removal, as well as concentrating accumulated sediment in
an area where it can be readily removed. To create a forebay, a baffle
may be introduced to restrict hydraulic communication between the
inlet and the remainder of the retention basin. The minimum standards
for forebays are as follows:
a)
Minimum length shall be 10 feet.
b)
Sufficient storage volume shall be provided to trap sediment
between clean-out intervals (typically five to 15 years). At a minimum,
the forebay shall be sized to contain 0.25 inch per impervious acre
of contributing drainage.
c)
The forebay shall be three to five feet deep.
d)
The height of the berm or baffle separating the forebay from
the pond shall be one foot below the one-year water surface elevation
or at the normal water surface elevation, whichever is higher.
e)
The forebay shall be accessible and stabilized to accommodate
equipment used in removing accumulated sediment.
f)
Nonerodible material shall be used to construct the forebay
berm. Armoring, such as riprap, is generally preferred to stabilize
the upgradient face of the berm.
4)
Wet ponds shall be designed with public safety as a primary
concern. An aquatic safety bench shall be provided around the perimeter
of the permanent pool. The aquatic safety bench shall be a minimum
of 10 feet wide with a maximum slope of 10:1. A 3:1 slope shall lead
from the edge of the safety bench toward the deep water portion of
the pond for at least 15 feet. Slopes on the remainder of the pond
below the permanent pool elevation shall be a maximum of 2:1. The
portion of the pond devoted to storage and peak attenuation of storm
runoff, the terrestrial bench, shall be nearly level and shall be
planted with shrubs and trees that shade the pool and mitigate thermal
impacts. Terrestrial bench shall be at least 10 feet wide.
5)
A planting plan prepared by a landscape architect shall be developed
for the wet pond showing all proposed aquatic, emergent, and upland
plantings.
6)
The perimeter slope above the terrestrial bench shall have a
maximum slope of 4:1.
7)
Wet ponds shall have a deep water zone to encourage gravity
settling of suspended fines and to prevent stagnation and possible
eutrophication. The maximum depth shall not exceed eight feet.
8)
Wet ponds shall be capable of being substantially drained by
gravity flow. Where possible, wet ponds shall be equipped with a manually
operated drain that can be secured against unauthorized operation.
9)
The preferred method of low flow discharge from a pond is a
submerged, reverse-slope pipe that extends downward from the outlet
structure to an inflow point one foot below the normal water surface
elevation. Alternative methods may be employed and shall include provisions
to prevent debris clogging of the structure.
(6)
Bioretention facilities and rain gardens.
(a)
All concentrated discharges directed to a bioretention facility
shall be conveyed through a pretreatment filter strip. The filter
strip shall be designed to reduce the incoming velocities and to filter
out coarser sediment particles. Examples of pretreatment filter strips
include sand or gravel diaphragms, grass swales, sand filters, stone
check dams, etc.
(b)
Bioretention facilities shall meet the following minimum standards:
(c)
All bioretention facilities shall incorporate an organic mulch
layer. The organic mulch layer shall be standard landscape style,
single or double, shredded hardwood mulch or chips. The mulch layer
shall be well aged, uniform in color, and free of other materials
such as weed seed, soil roots, etc. The mulch layer shall be applied
to maximum depth of three inches. Grass clippings shall not be used
as mulch material.
(d)
Planting soil shall be a loam soil capable of supporting healthy
vegetative cover. Soils shall be amended with a composted organic
material consisting of 20% to 30% compost material and 70% to 80%
soil base, preferably topsoil. A soil analysis of the planting bed
soil shall verify that the soils meet the following:
1)
pH range between 5.5 and 6.5.
2)
Organic matter content 5% to 10%.
3)
Magnesium provided at 35 pounds per acre minimum.
4)
Phosphorus provided at 75 pounds per acre minimum.
5)
Potassium provided at 85 pounds per acre minimum.
6)
Soluble salts shall be less than 500 ppm.
7)
Clay content between 0% and 10%.
8)
Silt content between 30% and 55%.
9)
Sand content between 35% and 60%.
(e)
All bioretention facilities shall incorporate landscaping and
shall be provided with a landscaping plan prepared by a landscape
architect that meets the following standards:
1)
Plant species shall be selected based on the ability to tolerate
urban stresses, such as pollutants, variable soil moisture and ponding
fluctuations. A list of acceptable native plants is provided in the
PA BMP Manual.
2)
A minimum of three species each of trees, shrubs, and/or herbaceous
plants shall be selected to insure diversity.
(f)
In cases where the coefficient of permeability of the existing
soils is less than 0.1 inch per hour, an underdrain facility shall
be provided. The underdrain facility shall be protected from sediment
accumulation with filter fabric.
(g)
Where underdrain is proposed, an eight-inch deep sand bed shall
be provided between the planting soil bed and the underdrain system.
(h)
An overflow spillway or storm drain shall be provided to adequately
convey the fifty-year storm event. The spillway or storm drain facility
shall be set above the maximum proposed ponding depth.
(7)
Permeable pavement.
(a)
The type of permeable pavement material (perforated brick pavers,
concrete grid pavers, porous bituminous concrete, porous concrete,
etc.) shall be determined based on required surface infiltration rates,
total surface area of pavement, and proposed use of the pavement/parking
area.
(b)
Permeable pavements shall be constructed with a perimeter overflow
edge. The edge is intended to intercept runoff from the pavement if
for any reason the permeable surface were to become clogged. The perimeter
overflow edges shall connect directly into the base layer of the pavement.
(c)
Soil percolation/infiltration rates shall equal or exceed 0.2
inch per hour. Soils with infiltration rates in excess of 6.0 inches
per hour may require an additional soil buffer, such as an organic
layer over the bed bottom, if the cation exchange capacity (CEC) is
less than five and pollutant loading is expected to be significant.
(d)
Permeable pavement recharge beds shall dewater within 72 hours.
(e)
A minimum depth of 24 inches between the intended bottom of
the facility and the seasonal high water table and/or bedrock and/or
groundwater (limiting zones). The minimum required separation between
the limiting zone may be increased at the Township's discretion
if project specific conditions, such as anticipated contaminants,
dictate greater prevention of groundwater contamination.
(f)
All recharge bed bottoms shall be flat (0% slope). Porous pavement
surface slopes shall not exceed 2% and are encouraged to be designed
at 1%. In certain cases, the Township may allow surface slopes up
to 3% if natural grades are left largely undisturbed.
(8)
Extended detention/dual-purpose detention.
(a)
Detention basin BMPs shall be designed in accordance with the
design criteria and specifications in the PA BMP Manual and shall
meet the following the following minimum requirements.
(b)
Grading of detention basins shall be designed to utilize the
natural contours of land whenever possible. When such design is impractical,
the construction of the basin shall utilize slopes as shallow as possible
to blend the structure into the terrain.
1)
Maximum depth of stored water in detention basins shall be five
feet, unless a greater depth is approved by the Board of Supervisors.
2)
Maximum side slopes shall be a four-to-one ratio, horizontal
to vertical. A ten-foot wide access shall be provided for maintenance
of the facility with a maximum slope of 10:1 ratio.
3)
A minimum grade of 2% shall be maintained for all areas in the
basin where sheet flow occurs. A one-percent minimum grade shall be
maintained for channel flow in the basin.
(c)
The top width of the embankment shall be a minimum of 10 feet
for storage volumes greater than 15,000 cubic feet. The top width
of the embankment may be reduced to five feet for maximum storage
volumes under 15,000 cubic feet.
(d)
A cutoff trench shall be provided along the center line of any
dam or earth fill embankments. The trench shall have a bottom width
of not less than four feet, but adequate to allow use of equipment
necessary to obtain proper compaction. Side slopes of cutoff trench
shall be no steeper than 1:1 ratio. The trench shall be filled with
successive thin layers of relatively impervious material, each layer
being thoroughly compacted.
(e)
All basin embankments shall be placed in lifts not to exceed
eight inches in thickness and each lift shall be compacted to a minimum
of 95% of modified proctor density as established by ASTM D-1557.
Prior to proceeding to the next lift, the compaction shall be checked
by a soils engineer employed by the applicant/developer. Compaction
tests shall be run on the leading and trailing edge of the berm along
with the top of the berm. Verification of required compaction shall
be submitted to the Township prior to utilization of any basin for
stormwater management.
(f)
Spillways shall be provided to convey storm runoff around or
under the embankment in a controlled manner to prevent overtopping.
The spillway also must convey the water from the basin to a stable
outlet below without damage to the downstream slopes.
1)
Primary spillway. The riser shall be solidly attached to the
barrel and all connections for riser and pipe barrel shall be watertight.
The barrel and riser shall be placed on a firm foundation. The fill
material around the primary spillway shall be placed in four-inch
lifts and compacted to at least the same density as the adjacent embankment.
If the basin is being used as a temporary sediment control facility
during construction, the riser shall be constructed in accordance
with specifications set forth by PADEP and NRCS in the "Erosion and
Sediment Pollution Control Manual," latest edition.
2)
Emergency spillway. Whenever possible, the emergency spillway
for detention basins shall be constructed on undisturbed ground. Emergency
spillways constructed on undisturbed ground may be constructed of
reinforced vegetated earth. All other spillways shall be constructed
of riprap, concrete checkerblocks, or similar materials approved by
the Township Engineer.
a)
The minimum capacity of all emergency spillways shall be equal
to the peak flow rate from the one-hundred-year design storm.
b)
Emergency spillways shall extend along the upstream and downstream
berm embankment slopes. The upstream edge of the spillway material
shall be a minimum of three feet below the spillway crest elevation.
The downstream slope of the spillway shall extend to the toe of the
berm embankment. The emergency spillway shall not discharge over earthen
fill or easily erodible material.
3)
The minimum freeboard through the emergency spillway shall be
one foot. Freeboard is defined as the difference between the design
flow elevation through the spillway and the elevation of the top of
the settled basin berm. Six inches, minimum, is required between the
one-hundred-year water surface elevation and the emergency spillway
crest.
4)
Antiseep collars shall be installed around the principal spillway
pipe barrel within the normal saturation zone. The collars and their
connections to the pipe shall be watertight. The maximum spacing shall
be approximately 14 times the minimum projection of the collar measured
perpendicular to the pipe. The minimum projection shall be two feet.
5)
All basin outlets which discharge to surface waters shall have
energy dissipating devices designed in accordance with the PADEP "Erosion
and Sediment Pollution Control Manual," latest edition.
6)
Basins shall be protected against erosion by vegetative means
as soon as practical after construction and before runoff is directed
to the facility via storm conveyances. Areas that have eroded during
construction shall be regraded and stabilized prior to final seeding
procedures. Basins shall receive a minimum of eight inches of topsoil,
conditioned as needed, prior to seeding.
(9)
All stormwater control facility designs shall conform to the
applicable standards and specifications of the following governmental
and institutional agencies:
(a)
American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM).
(b)
Asphalt Institute (AI).
(c)
Bucks County Conservation District.
(d)
Federal Highway Administration (FHWA).
(e)
National Crushed Stone Association (NCSA).
(f)
National Sand and Gravel Association (NSGA).
(g)
Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection (DEP).
(h)
Pennsylvania Department of Transportation (PennDOT).
(i)
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation
Service, Pennsylvania (NRCS).
(10)
If special geological hazards or soil conditions, such as carbonate
derived soils, are identified on the site, the developer's engineer
shall consider the effect of proposed stormwater management measures
on these conditions. In such cases, the Township may require an in-depth
report by a competent soils engineer.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
General.
A.
Storm drains and appurtenances shall be required to be constructed
by the owner in any area from which the surface or subsurface drainage
could impair public safety or cause physical damage to adjacent lands
or public property. The system shall be designed to collect water
at the bottom of all vertical grades, immediately upgrade of all street
intersections, and other areas where excessive flow may occur.
B.
In the design of the storm sewerage system, the future use of undeveloped areas upstream shall be taken into account in calculating pipe sizes. The body of water or system shall be evaluated to verify its ability to handle the anticipated flows. Anticipated flows should be based on maximum impervious cover permitted under Chapter 27, Zoning, in effect at the time of plan submission.
2.
Storm drain pipes, inlets, and manholes.
A.
The design discharge for use in determining gutter flow, spacing
of inlets, and for pipe sizing of storm sewer shall be computed by
the rational formula Q = CIA, in which Q = discharge, cubic feet per
second; C = runoff coefficient; I = rainfall intensity, inches per
hour; A = area, acres. The storm drainage system shall be designed
to carry runoff from the twenty-five-year storm based on Region 5
rainfall intensity-duration-frequency curves, as supplied by PennDOT
in their Design Manual, Part 2, Highway Design (Publication 13), or
as amended. Storm sewer system shall have a minimum of one foot of
freeboard during a one-hundred-year storm event.
B.
All inlets must be designed to accommodate the twenty-five-year peak
flow rate. The capacity of all C-, M-, or S-type inlets shall be determined
from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation Design Manual,
Part 2, and any amendments. Spread of runoff in gutters shall not
exceed eight feet in width or 1/2 of the travel lane, whichever is
lesser, during a ten-year storm event.
C.
The spacing of inlets shall not exceed a maximum distance of 450
feet along any one continuous line.
D.
The minimum diameter of all storm sewer pipes shall be 15 inches
and the minimum grade shall be 1/2 of 1%.
E.
Storm sewer pipe shall be plain or reinforced concrete pipe or smooth-core,
corrugated polyethylene pipe.
F.
Arched or elliptical pipe may be permitted in lieu of circular pipe
when pipe cover is restricted.
G.
The crown of all pipes tying into an inlet or manhole shall be set
at equal elevations.
H.
An inlet or manhole shall be provided at all horizontal deflections
in the storm pipe system unless otherwise approved by the Township
Engineer.
I.
An inlets or manhole shall be provided all changes of grade, at all
locations where a transition in storm sewer pipe size is required,
and at all points of convergence of two or more influent storm sewer
pipes. It is desirable that an inlet be used for this purpose in lieu
of a manhole wherever possible.
3.
Channel flow.
A.
All drainage channels shall be designed to carry the peak flow from
a twenty-five-year storm with a minimum of six inches of freeboard.
Provisions shall be made to insure that larger runoff events do not
impair public safety or cause damage to adjacent lands or public property.
B.
Channels shall be designed to prevent erosion of channel bed or bank
areas. Suitable stabilization shall be provided where required to
prevent erosion from velocities that exceed the maximum permissible
for grass channels as determined by the Township Engineer.
C.
Storm sewers discharging into existing or proposed channels shall
enter at an angle less than 30°. If the angle is greater, bank
stabilization shall be required on the far bank.
D.
Vegetated channels shall have a maximum side slope of three horizontal
to one vertical.
E.
The design standards for channels shall follow PADEP Erosion and
Sediment Pollution Control Manual, latest edition, as a minimum guide.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Bridges and culverts shall be designed to carry the peak flow from
a one-hundred-year storm. The structures shall be designed in accordance
with the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation standards. The
structure shall be constructed to the full width of the right-of-way
or five feet beyond edge of finished cartway, whichever is greater.
2.
The approval of the Department of Environmental Protection shall
be required for all wetlands and waters of the U.S. or when the drainage
area exceeds 100 acres.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Purpose and intent. The purpose and intent of this section is to
preserve and promote the health, safety, and general welfare of the
public; to facilitate the creation of a convenient, attractive and
harmonious community; to conserve naturDesign standardsal resources,
including air and water; to conserve properties and their values;
to preserve the character of an area by preventing harmful effects
of potentially dissimilar uses; and to encourage the appropriate use
of land. More specifically this section is intended to minimize the
impact of dissimilar uses on adjoining or nearby uses by requiring
a buffer between the uses in order to lessen the impact of noise,
dust and other debris, motor vehicle headlight glare, artificial light
intrusion, and to other objectionable activities or impacts conducted
on or created by an adjoining or nearby use. Additionally, this section
is intended to require the landscaping of parking lots in order to
reduce the harmful effects of wind, heat and noise, and the glare
of motor vehicle headlights; to preserve underground water resources
and to permit the return of precipitation to the below grade aquifers;
to reduce the level of carbon dioxide; to prevent soil erosion; to
provide shade; and to enhance the overall appearance of the lot.
2.
Landscape plan requirements.
A.
Plans shall be drawn at an appropriate scale to accurately depict
compliance with the requirements set forth in this section.
B.
The landscape plan shall contain sufficient information regarding
existing features, rights-of-way, utilities, grading, stormwater management
facilities, easements and setback lines, driveways, parking areas,
buildings, vegetation, and all other information necessary to ensure
compliance with this section.
C.
All areas to be disturbed for utility installations, electric lines,
water and sewer lines, and the like, shall be shown on the landscape
plan and grading plan. The plans shall include a line marking the
limit of disturbance relative to existing vegetation.
D.
Plans shall include an inventory of all trees indicating size, species,
and location for all trees greater than three inches in caliper.
E.
The landscape plan shall be signed and sealed by a landscape architect,
registered in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, responsible for the
preparation of the plan.
3.
Maintenance of landscape improvements.
A.
The owner, or his agent, shall be responsible for the maintenance,
repair, and replacement of all landscape materials shown on the approved
landscape plan.
B.
All plant materials shall be maintained in a healthy growing condition,
and replaced when necessary, due to poor health or unsafe conditions.
C.
All landscaping shall be installed and maintained in accordance with
the approved landscape plan. Any removal, relocation, or substitution
in plant materials, shall be authorized by the Township or the Townships
representative.
D.
The omission, removal, replacement, relocation, or substitution of
approved plant materials, depicted on the approved landscape plan,
without prior approval shall be replaced at the owner's expense
and subject to review by the Township.
E.
Plantings and other materials shall not be installed until finished
grading has been completed.
F.
Plantings shall be installed, inspected, and approved prior to the
issuance of an occupancy permit.
4.
Street trees.
A.
Within any land development or subdivision, street trees shall be
planted along all streets except where the Township agrees that suitable
street trees are already in place.
B.
Street trees shall be located as to not conflict with signage, sidewalks,
easements, utilities, or site lines at intersections.
C.
One street tree shall be planted for every 40 lineal feet of street
frontage. The measurement shall not include widths associated with
driveway crossings or easements.
D.
Street trees shall be arranged either in a formal or informal manner.
Arrangements are subject to acceptance from the Township.
[Amended by Ord. 737, 1/19/2017]
E.
Street trees shall be planted five feet to 10 feet outside the legal
right-of-way line.
F.
Street trees shall not cause conflict with aerial utilities.
(1)
If trees are to be planted within zero to 15 feet of a utility
pole or line, measured along the ground from the base of the pole,
only trees which shall not exceed a height of 15 feet at maturity
shall be planted.
(2)
If trees are to be planted within 15 feet to 25 feet of a utility
pole or line, measured along the ground from the base of the pole,
only trees which shall not exceed a height of 30 feet at maturity
shall be planted.
G.
Street trees shall be a minimum of 2.5 inches in diameter, measured
at six inches above grade, and have a uniform canopy and spread at
the time of planting. Trees shall have a minimum height of seven feet
above grade before branching begins. Any trees installed which do
not meet these requirements shall be replaced upon notice from the
Township.
H.
All trees to be installed shall be balled and burlap in accordance
with the American Association of Nurserymen standards.
I.
Street trees shall be mulched to a depth of no less than three inches
in a six-foot diameter tree ring. Mulch shall not be placed against
the tree trunk or the root crown.
J.
Street trees shall be staked for no longer than one year after initial
installation. Trees shall be staked utilizing two two-inch-by-two-inch-by-eight-foot
rough sawn stakes. Trees shall be braced utilizing woven polypropylene
ties. Under no circumstances shall metal guy wiring be utilized for
bracing purposes.
K.
Plant species which are native to Pennsylvania and hardy to USDA
Planting Zone 6b shall be required, in lieu of alternate species.
5.
Buffers.
A.
Buffers shall be required in any subdivision or land development.
B.
General buffer requirements:
(1)
At the Township's discretion, existing vegetation within the
buffer yard that meets the objectives of buffer requirements may be
utilized to fulfill or partially fulfill buffer requirements.
(2)
Quantities, sizes, species, and locations of all existing plant
material that is being utilized to meet buffer requirements shall
be shown on the plans. All vegetation shall be permanently preserved
by a note on the record plan to ensure that it remains part of the
approved subdivision or land development.
(3)
The Township, or its authorized representative, must inspect
and approve all existing vegetation utilized to meet buffer requirements.
(4)
All buffer yards shall be kept clean of debris and rubbish.
(5)
Buffer yards may overlap front, side, and rear yards, however
the larger yard requirement shall govern.
(6)
No structure, stormwater management facility, utility, storage
of material, parking facility, or other site amenity shall exist within
the buffer which will inhibit the installation of required plant materials.
Access driveways may cross the buffer yard provided that they are
fairly perpendicular to the buffer yard.
(7)
Berming shall only be provided where the Township agrees that
it would be advantageous. Berms shall not exceed four feet in height,
and shall meander to follow the natural topography of the site. Berming
shall not adversely affect site drainage or drainage occurring from
off-site drainage areas on adjacent properties.
(8)
Maximum grading for berming purposes shall not exceed four feet
horizontal to one foot vertical.
C.
Buffer requirements:
(1)
Buffers shall be designed in accordance with the following requirements unless otherwise specified in Chapter 27, Zoning.
Situation
|
Buffer Class
| |
---|---|---|
Any new subdivision or land development
|
1
| |
Nonresidential use abutting residential use
|
2
| |
Multifamily residential use or mobile home park abutting other
residential use
|
3
|
(2)
Class 1 buffer requirements:
(a)
Buffer yard width: 15 feet to 20 feet.
(b)
Required quantities:
Canopy trees: 1 tree per 40 linear feet
| |
Evergreen trees: 1 tree per 60 linear feet
| |
Flowering trees: 1 tree per 60 linear feet
| |
Shrubs: 1 shrub per 20 linear feet
| |
Herbaceous perennials: 10 plants per 20 linear feet
|
(c)
Existing vegetation located within the buffer yard shall be
preserved and supplemented with the above materials.
(3)
Class 2 buffer requirements:
(a)
Buffer yard width: 30 feet.
(b)
Required quantities:
Canopy trees: 1 tree per 40 linear feet
| |
Evergreen trees: 1 tree per 30 linear feet
| |
Flowering trees: 1 tree per 30 linear feet
| |
Shrubs: 3 shrubs per 20 linear feet
| |
Herbaceous perennials: 10 plants per 20 linear feet
|
(c)
Existing vegetation located within the buffer yard shall be
preserved and supplemented with the above materials.
(4)
Class 3 buffer requirements:
(a)
Buffer yard width: 100 feet.
(b)
Required quantities:
Canopy trees: 1 tree per 20 linear feet
| |
Evergreen trees: 1 tree per 20 linear feet
| |
Flowering trees: 1 tree per 30 linear feet
| |
Shrubs: 10 shrubs per 20 linear feet
| |
Herbaceous perennials: 10 plants per 20 linear feet
|
(c)
Existing vegetation located within the buffer yard shall be
preserved and supplemented with the above materials.
6.
Parking area landscaping:
A.
All parking lots of six or more parking spaces shall be enclosed,
except for entrances and exits, by a hedge, no less than three feet
in height at the time of planting. The hedge shall consist of a mix
of evergreen and deciduous shrubs.
B.
One shrub shall be provided for each three feet of curb surrounding
the parking spaces along the exterior of the parking lot.
C.
One deciduous tree of 2.5 caliper inches shall be provided for every
five parking spaces. Trees shall be planted in locations that will
provide adequate shade on impervious surfaces. Parking area trees
shall not conflict with site lighting fixtures, aerial, and underground
utilities.
D.
Fifteen percent of all parking areas shall be dedicated to landscaping
and shall be sufficiently planted to reduce glare, heat, and noise.
Calculations for determining percentage of landscaped area shall be
determined as the total square footage of all parking stalls, multiplied
by 15%. The square footage of drive aisles are excluded from this
requirement. Plantings shall be located within or immediately surrounding
the proposed parking facility.
E.
Parking islands, as required per § 22-512, Subsections 5 and 6, shall contain a mix of trees, shrubs, and ground cover creating year-round interest. If islands are to be utilized as part of a stormwater management system, plantings shall be inclusive of trees, shrubs, and herbaceous perennials as defined in the landscape regulations for stormwater facilities contained herein.
F.
Plantings shall be able to survive soot, salt, and fumes. Trees which
have low-growing branches, seed pods, gum, thorns, or fruit that could
potentially clog drainage facilities shall not be permitted.
7.
Landscape regulations for stormwater management facilities.
[Amended by Ord. 737, 1/19/2017]
A.
Stormwater management facilities shall be designed to harmoniously
blend with features on site. Landscaping shall be provided to perform
functionally as well as aesthetically. Materials shall be laid out
in a manner to coincide with other landscape requirements, grading,
and existing vegetation.
B.
Required quantities, mixture, and arrangement of landscaping shall
be to the satisfaction of the Township Engineer and shall be utilized
to naturalize stormwater management facilities.
C.
Landscape requirements for stormwater management facilities.
(1)
Landscaping shall be a mixture of canopy trees, evergreen trees,
ornamental flowering trees, shrubs, and herbaceous perennials.
(2)
Use of native plant material is encouraged over exotic foreign
species.
(3)
Planting arrangements shall be grouped together to replicate
naturalized planting arrangements. Uniform planting patterns should
be avoided where possible.
(4)
Species specified within the facilities shall be tolerant of
anticipated environmental conditions. These conditions include frequent
inundation, permanent inundation, heat, wind, arid conditions, etc.
(5)
Landscaping shall be provided on basin floors, except for basins
with permanent ponds, and basin side slopes.
(6)
Large-scale landscaping shall not be placed on top of basin
berms, and shall be located a minimum of 10 feet away from underground
structures, pipes, under drains, etc.
(7)
Herbaceous perennials shall be provided within and around the
basin in lieu of sod.
(8)
A landscape schedule shall be provided to identify the proposed
species and quantities of landscape material provided within the stormwater
management facilities.
(9)
Thermal warming shall be reduced by placement of large scale
plant materials to the south and west portions of the facility. Inflow
and outflow areas shall be screened with shrub material.
(10)
Plantings shall not inhibit views, sightlines, or obstruct pedestrian
and vehicular circulation.
(11)
Plantings tolerant of road salts, and chemicals shall be utilized
where applicable.
(12)
Existing natural vegetation shall be preserved where possible.
8.
Replacement trees.
[Amended by Ord. 737, 1/19/2017]
A.
All replacement trees shall be regulated in accordance with Chapter 25, Trees, of the Code of the Township of Warminster and the following:
(1)
Any tree three inches in caliper or greater, removed in conjunction
with a subdivision or land development shall be replaced on site.
Should sufficient area not exist on site, the applicant may install
trees elsewhere in the Township, as directed by the Director of Parks
and Recreation, or provide a fee in lieu of replacement trees. The
fee for each tree shall be determined at market rate for installation,
guarantee, etc.
(2)
Replacement trees shall be a minimum of 2.5 inches in caliper
at the time of installation.
(3)
Replacement trees shall be provided at an inch-per-inch replacement
ratio.
(4)
Trees which are diseased and which should be removed for safety
or for the protection of other healthy trees, as certified by a trained
arborist, may be removed and will not be subject to the requirements
of this section.
(5)
Tree removal necessary to accommodate public utilities or public
facilities to be constructed or installed by the Township or the Township
Authority shall be exempt from the requirements of this section.
(6)
Trees required to be planted in accordance with this section
shall be installed in addition to other landscaping requirements set
forth in this section.
9.
Compliance chart.
A.
The following compliance chart shall be shown on the landscape plan,
to demonstrate compliance with this section of this chapter.
Landscape Compliance Chart
| ||||
---|---|---|---|---|
Required Quantity
|
Existing Quantity
|
Proposed Quantity
| ||
Street Trees (_____ L/F Total)
| ||||
1 tree per 40 L/F
| ||||
Buffer Plantings (_____ L/F Total)
| ||||
Buffer class _____
| ||||
Canopy trees
| ||||
Evergreen trees
| ||||
Ornamental flowering trees
| ||||
Shrubs
| ||||
Perennials
| ||||
Parking Area Plantings
| ||||
1 tree per 5 stalls
| ||||
1 shrub per 3 L/F perimeter
| ||||
15% parking area landscaping (_____ square feet)
| ||||
Stormwater Management Plantings (_____ square feet)
| ||||
1 tree per 200 square feet
| ||||
1 ornamental flowering tree per 100 square feet
| ||||
1 shrub per 20 square feet
| ||||
Replacement Trees
| ||||
Replacement trees (___ cal. inches removed)
|
10.
Disapproved plant list. Plantings listed below have been selected
based on their invasive characteristics. All plantings proposed for
installation shall not be classified as an invasive species according
to the most recent lists provided by USDA, DCNR Bureau of Forestry,
or the PA Department of Agriculture. Additionally, plantings chosen
shall be disease-free varieties.
Scientific Name
|
Common Name
| |
---|---|---|
Herbaceous Perennials
| ||
Aegopodium podagaria
|
Goutweed
| |
Allaria petiolata
|
Garlic mustard
| |
Carduus nutans
|
Musk thistle
| |
Cirsium arvense
|
Canada thistle
| |
Cirsium vulgare
|
Bull thistle
| |
Coronilla varia
|
Crown vetch
| |
Datura stramonium
|
Jimsonweed
| |
Galega officinalis
|
Goatsrue
| |
Heracleum mantegazzianum
|
Giant hogweed
| |
Hesperis matronalis
|
Dames rocket
| |
Lythrum salicaria, L. virgatum
|
Purple loosestrife
| |
Myriophyllum spicatum
|
Eurasian water milfoil
| |
Ornithogallum nutans, O. umbellatum
|
Star of Bethlehem
| |
Pastinaca sativa
|
Wild parsnip
| |
Perilla frutescens
|
Beefsteak plant
| |
Polygonum cuspidatum
|
Japanese knotweed
| |
Ranunculus ficaria
|
Lesser celandine
| |
Trapa nutans
|
Water chestnut
| |
Grasses
| ||
Arundinaria viridistriata
|
Running bamboo
| |
Bromus tectorum
|
Cheatgrass
| |
Equisetum hyemale
|
Scour rush
| |
Imperata cylindrica
|
Japanese blood grass
| |
Microstegium vimineum
|
Japanese stilt grass
| |
Miscanthus sinensis
|
Maiden grass
| |
Phalaris arundinacea
|
Reed canary grass
| |
Phragmites australis
|
Common reed
| |
Phyllostachys aureosulcata
|
Yellow grove bamboo
| |
Semiarundinaria murelae
|
Running bamboo
| |
Sorghum bicolor
|
Shattercane
| |
Sorghum halepense
|
Johnson grass
| |
Typha latifolia
|
Common cattail
| |
Shrubs
| ||
Alnus glutinosa
|
European black alder
| |
Berberis thunbergii
|
Japanese barberry
| |
Berberis vulgaris
|
European barberry
| |
Eleagnus angustifolia
|
Russian olive
| |
Eleagnus umbellata
|
Autumn olive
| |
Euonymus alatus
|
Winged euonymus
| |
Ligustrum obtusifolium
|
Border privet
| |
Ligustrum vulgare
|
Common privet
| |
Lonicera maackii
|
Amur honeysuckle
| |
Lonicera morrowii
|
Morrow's honeysuckle
| |
Lonicera morrowii x tatarica
|
Bell's honeysuckle
| |
Lonicera standishii
|
Standish honeysuckle
| |
Lonicera tartarica
|
Tartarian honeysuckle
| |
Rhamnus catharticus
|
Common buckthorn
| |
Rhamnus frangula
|
Glossy buckthorn
| |
Rubus phoenicolasius
|
Wineberry
| |
Rosa multiflora
|
Multiflora rose
| |
Spraea japonica
|
Japanese spiraea
| |
Viburnum opulus
|
European cranberrybush viburnum
| |
Trees
| ||
Acer platanoides
|
Norway maple
| |
Acer pseudoplatinus
|
Sycamore maple
| |
Albezia julibrissin
|
Mimosa
| |
Ailanthus altissima
|
Tree of heaven
| |
Maclura pomifera
|
Osage orange
| |
Morus alba
|
Mulberry
| |
Paulownia tomentosa
|
Princess tree
| |
Pyrus calleryana
|
Callery pear
| |
Ulmus pumila
|
Siberian elm
| |
Vines
| ||
Akebia quinata
|
Five leaf akebia
| |
Ampelopsis brevipendunculosa
|
Porcelian berry
| |
Celastrus orbiculatus
|
Oriental bittersweet
| |
Hedra helix
|
English ivy
| |
Lonicera japonica
|
Japanese honeysuckle
| |
Polygonum perfoliatum
|
Mile-a-minute vine
| |
Pueraria lobata
|
Kudzu vine
|
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Purpose and intent. The purpose of this section if to ensure adequate
and effective lighting is provided for streets, buildings, parking
lots, and other facilities to ensure the safety and comfort of the
users. Excessive lighting wastes energy; intrudes upon neighboring
properties; is a nuisance to pedestrians, cyclists, and motorists;
disturbs wildlife; and can jeopardize the health safety and welfare
of the general public. Management of outdoor artificial lighting shall
be designed to promote public safety; to minimize adverse effects;
to minimize glare; to minimize light trespass; to be utilized where
needed to the most efficient extent.
2.
DIRECT GLARE
DIRECT LIGHT
FIXTURE
FLOOD OR SPOT LIGHT
FOOTCANDLE
FULL CUTOFF
FULLY SHIELDED LIGHTS
GLARE
HEIGHT OF LUMINAIRE
IESNA
ILLUMINANCE
INDIRECT LIGHT
LAMP
LIGHT LOSS FACTOR
LIGHT TRESPASS
LUMEN
LUMINAIRE
LUX
OUTDOOR LIGHTING
OUTDOOR LIGHTING, TEMPORARY
SPORTS FIELD LIGHTING
Definitions. As used in this section, the following terms shall have
the meanings indicated:
Glare resulting from high illuminance or insufficiently shielded
light sources in the field of view.
Light emitted directly from the lamp, off the reflector or
reflector diffuser, or through the refractor diffuser lens, of a luminaire.
The assembly that houses the lamp(s) source.
Any light fixture that incorporates a reflector or a refractor
to concentrate light output into a directed beam in a particular direction.
A unit of illuminance. One footcandle is one lumen per square
foot.
A luminaire light distribution where zero candela intensity
occurs at an angle of 90° above nadir, and at all angles above
nadir.
Outdoor light fixtures shielded or constructed in a manner
that all light emitted by the fixture, either directly from the lamp
or a diffusing element or indirectly by reflection or refraction,
is projected below the horizontal plane through the fixtures lowest
light emitting part as certified by a photometric test report.
The sensation produced by lighting fixtures within the visual
field that is sufficiently greater than the luminance to which the
eyes are adapted to cause annoyance, discomfort, or loss in visual
performance.
The height of a luminaire shall be the vertical distance
from finished grade directly below the center line of the luminaire
to the lowest direct-light emitting part of the luminaire.
Illuminating Engineering Society of North America.
The quantity of light measured in footcandles or lux.
Direct light that has been reflected or has scattered off
of another surface.
The component of a luminaire that produces light.
The ratio of illuminance for a given area to the value that
would occur if lamps operated at their initial rated lumen output
and if no system variation or depreciation had occurred.
The shining of light produced by a luminaire beyond the boundaries
of the property on which it is located.
A standard unit of luminous flux. One footcandle is one lumen
per square foot.
A complete lighting unit, consisting of one or more lamps
together with the fixture.
A standard unit of illuminance. One lux is equal to one lumen
per square meter (lm/m2).
The illumination of an outdoor area or object by any man-made
device that produces light by any means.
Outdoor lighting that is used for a period of less than seven
days, with at least 180 days passing before being used again or used
annually for a period of 30 days or less.
Artificial outdoor lighting used for the sole intention of
illuminating areas to be used for sporting purposes.
3.
Applicability. The requirements of this section shall apply to all
outdoor lighting installations as follows:
A.
Outdoor lighting installations that are designed, constructed, erected,
or otherwise placed into operation after the effective date of this
section.
B.
Alterations, rehabilitations or renovations to existing outdoor lighting
installations which are commenced after the effective date of this
section, and which involve the complete replacement of an existing
lighting system with a new lighting system.
C.
Nonapplicability. The requirements of this section shall not apply
to outdoor lighting installations operating before the effective date
of this section, except for any lighting installation that creates
a safety hazard as deemed by the Township. Routine maintenance of
these preexisting outdoor lighting installations shall not have to
comply with the requirements of this section. Routine maintenance
includes the following:
D.
Exemptions. The requirements of this section shall not apply in the
following circumstances:
(1)
Where superseded by federal or state law.
(2)
Temporary emergency lighting used by police, fire, emergency
medical services, public works, or other public safety services.
(3)
Hazard/warning lights required by state or federal regulations,
except that all luminaires used must be red and must be shown to be
as close as possible to the minimum lumen output for that specific
task.
4.
General regulations:
A.
All outdoor lighting shall be aimed, located, directed, designed,
fitted, and maintained so as not to present a hazard to drivers or
pedestrians by impairing their ability to safely traverse, and so
as not to create a nuisance by projecting or reflecting objectionable
light onto a neighboring property or use.
B.
Floodlights and spotlights, where permitted, shall be installed and/or
aimed so that they do not project their output at neighboring properties,
or skyward, or directly onto a roadway.
C.
Except as otherwise permitted in this section, all fixtures shall
meet IESNA full cutoff criteria. No lighting shall be permitted that
results in glare beyond an angle of 30° from vertical plane, measured
from the light source, or results in glare beyond the property boundaries
upon which the luminaire is located.
D.
Except as otherwise permitted in this section, all fixtures shall
not exceed a height of 20 feet from finished grade. Fixtures located
in the historic district shall not exceed a height of 14 feet from
finished grade. If using LED fixtures, mounting height may be increased
to 24 feet, provided all glare requirements are met. This measurement
shall include the mounting base, pole, and total depth of the fixture
to be installed.
E.
Lighting fixtures shall be of a type and design appropriate to the
lighting application and aesthetically acceptable to the Township.
The use of searchlights, flashing strobe lights, and laser lights
is prohibited.
F.
All night lighting not utilized for safety or security shall be extinguished
between the hours of 11:00 p.m. and 7:00 a.m. Not more than 25% of
all lighting fixtures on site shall be considered security lighting.
G.
Vegetation screens shall not be employed to serve as the primary
means for controlling glare. Glare shall be controlled primarily by
use of cutoff fixtures, baffles, shields, mounting height, wattage,
aiming, and angle.
H.
Electrical feeds for lighting fixtures shall be run below grade,
and shall conform to the National Electric Code requirements and all
corresponding building codes.
I.
All lighting fixtures shall be placed within landscaped islands.
Should fixtures be required to be installed otherwise, they shall
be placed on a base 30 inches in height and no less than 18 inches
in diameter.
J.
All lighting, except as outlined herein, shall conform to the recommendations
for illumination and uniformity ratios specified by the IESNA Lighting
Handbook, latest edition.
K.
All fixtures specified on site shall be as electrically efficient
as possible. LED type lighting fixtures are preferred over high-intensity
discharge fixtures.
5.
Requirements for outdoor area lighting.
A.
This subsection applies to all outdoor lighting to be employed for
area illumination of parking lots, yards, roadways, streets, driveways,
entryways, and similar areas or lots.
B.
All fixtures shall conform to the IESNA definition of full cutoff
fixtures. Cut sheets, details, and the like shall be submitted to
the Township to demonstrate compliance.
C.
All luminaires shall be mounted plumb and level in accordance with
the intended application of their design.
D.
Fixtures that do not meet the IESNA definition of full cutoff shall
be prohibited.
E.
Illumination levels and ratios shall be in accordance with IESNA
recommendations.
F.
Maximum maintained illuminance levels. The maximum maintained illuminance
levels permitted within the property boundary during the night hours
shall be five footcandles.
G.
Maximum illuminance levels permitted at property lines or right-of-ways.
(1)
The maximum maintained illuminance levels permitted at the property
lines during the night hours shall be measured in horizontal footcandles
or horizontal lux according to the table listed below.
Location
|
Maximum Illuminance
(footcandles)
|
Maximum Illuminance
(lux)
| |
---|---|---|---|
Along any public right-of-way or roadway
|
0.5
|
5.4
| |
Along boundary of a nonresidential property
|
0.2
|
2.2
| |
Along boundary of a residential property
|
0.1
|
1.1
|
(2)
Exceptions:
(a)
Outdoor roadway lighting installations intended for illumination
of public roadways, streets, highways, cartways, and the like.
(b)
Designated vehicular or pedestrian entries/exits between properties
and public roadways. The area of illumination shall not extend beyond
50 feet from the center line of the designated entry/exit point or
in any direction along the property line/right-of-way.
(c)
Automotive dealership display areas for the sole use of display
for vehicular sales. All other areas shall conform to the requirements
herein.
H.
Illumination of outdoor canopies.
(1)
All lighting associated with outdoor canopies shall be shown
on the lighting plan.
(2)
All fixtures shall be mounted within the canopy structure and
pointed straight down. Fixtures shall not direct light above the canopy.
(3)
The canopy itself shall not be illuminated. If signage is placed
on the canopy, it shall be in accordance with the sign lighting regulations
contained herein.
(5)
Fixtures shall meet IESNA standards for full cutoff fixtures.
(6)
Illumination levels and ratios shall be in accordance with IESNA
recommendations.
I.
Illumination of sports and recreational lighting.
(1)
These regulations apply to all sports and recreational facilities,
including ball fields, ballparks, stadiums, tennis courts, basketball
courts, soccer fields, recreation fields, football fields, driving
ranges, firearm shooting ranges, and the like.
(2)
Sports and recreational lighting shall be shielded whenever
possible. Such lighting shall have directional and glare control devices
to minimize light trespass and sky glow.
(3)
All lighting, excluding security lighting, shall be equipped
with automatic shutoff control devices to extinguish light no more
than one hour past the expiration of an event.
(4)
Lighting levels and ratios shall comply with IESNA standards,
and all applicable regulations specified by the governing agency (i.e.,
PIAA, NCAA, etc.).
(5)
No direct light shall project off the property.
J.
Sign, facade, building, and landscape lighting.
(1)
The requirements of this subsection apply to all outdoor lighting
installations employed to illuminate signs, building facades, billboards,
structures, fountains, trees, shrubs, and the like.
(2)
All luminaires used for illumination of the above-mentioned
amenities shall be full cutoff.
(3)
Externally illuminated signs and billboards shall be lighted
from the top of the structure and aimed downwards.
(4)
Fixtures used for architectural lighting shall be designed and
aimed so as to not project their output beyond the objects intended
to be illuminated.
K.
Automobile sales display areas.
(1)
The requirements of this subsection apply to all outdoor lighting
installations employed to illuminate outdoor vehicular display areas
utilized in conjunction with automobile sales.
(2)
All luminaires used for illumination of the above-mentioned
amenities shall be full cutoff. All luminaires shall meet the definition
of full cutoff.
(3)
No fixtures shall be mounted in excess of 20 feet in height.
(4)
Illumination levels and ratios shall be in accordance with IESNA
recommendations.
6.
Lighting plan requirements.
A.
Plans shall be drawn at an appropriate scale to accurately depict
compliance with the requirements set forth in this section.
B.
The lighting plan shall contain sufficient information regarding
existing features, rights-of-way, utilities, grading, stormwater management
facilities, easements and setback lines, driveways, parking areas,
buildings, vegetation, and all other information necessary to ensure
compliance with this section.
C.
The lighting plan shall include all charts, diagrams, schedules,
calculations, etc., to ensure compliance with this section.
D.
The lighting plans shall depict all proposed landscaping to verify
that proposed landscaping and lighting locations do not conflict.
E.
The lighting plan shall include fixture details depicting mounting
heights, poles, etc., for each fixture.
F.
The lighting plan shall include product sheets of all proposed fixtures,
including manufacturer, product name and/or number, and IES file used
to depict lighting levels on the plan.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Where a proposed park, playground, school or other public use shown
in the Comprehensive Plan is located in whole or in part in a subdivision
or land development, the Board of Supervisors may require the dedication
or reservation of such area within the subdivision or land development
in those cases in which the Board of Supervisors deems such requirements
to be reasonable.
2.
Where deemed essential by the Board of Supervisors, upon consideration
of the particular type of development proposed, and especially in
large-scale planned unit developments, the Board of Supervisors may
require the dedication or reservation of such other areas or sites
of a character, extent, and location suitable to the needs created
by such development for schools, parks, and other neighborhood purposes.
3.
Where a proposed park, playground, or other public use is indicated
on a proposed subdivision or land development plan, the Parks and
Recreation Board shall review the plan and submit recommendations
to the Board of Supervisors.
4.
The following standards shall apply to the provisions of recreation
space:
A.
Areas set aside for recreational purposes shall be reasonably compact
parcels, placed to serve all parts of the subdivision or land development,
accessible from a public street.
B.
Playgrounds for active sports shall be of adequate size to provide
sufficient area for proposed uses and associated improvements, including
but not necessarily limited to parking and stormwater management.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
For any proposed subdivision, land development or revision of existing
land use anticipated to generate 100 or more trips per day, based
on the Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Trip Generation
Manual, most current edition, a transportation impact study shall
be required to be submitted to Warminster Township simultaneously
with the preliminary plan. The proposed use or development shall be
identified by using the appropriate land use code as indicated by
the ITE Land Use Code. Where doubt exists, the applicant shall seek
guidance by the Township Engineer. The provisions of this section
may be waived by the Township Board of Supervisors upon recommendation
of the Township Engineer if:
A.
The proposed subdivision or land development, in the opinion of the
Township Engineer, has no impact, or a negligible impact, on the type
and amount of highway or pedestrian traffic.
B.
A recent prior transportation impact study which includes the area
of the proposed subdivision or land development has previously been
performed, has been submitted to the Township, and in the opinion
of the Township Engineer remains current, and indicates that improvements
are not necessary or required.
2.
Conduct of a transportation impact study. The transportation impact
study shall be prepared by a professional engineer licensed in the
Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, practicing in traffic or transportation
engineering. The cost of said study is to be borne by the applicant.
3.
LEVEL OF SERVICE
MAJOR INTERSECTION
PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION
STUDY AREA
TRANSPORTATION
TRIP GENERATION RATES
VOLUME/CAPACITY ANALYSIS
WARRANTS FOR TRAFFIC SIGNAL INSTALLATION
Definitions. As used in this section, the following terms shall have
the meanings indicated:
As described in the Highway Capacity Manual, indicates how
well traffic moves on a particular highway facility or through a specific
intersection. There are six levels of servicing (LOS) ranging from
A through F. Level of service A indicates generally free movement;
level of service E represents maximum capacity of the facility; and
level of service F indicates congestion. Level of service C is considered
the design level of service, representing a stable traffic flow and
a relatively satisfactory travel speed.
Any intersection where traffic generated by the proposal
will have a significant impact on the operation of the intersection.
The transportation engineer shall seek guidance from the Township
Engineer prior to the submission of the transportation impact study.
Transportation service for the general public provided by
a common carrier of passengers generally on a regular route basis,
by the Southeastern Pennsylvania Transportation Authority or a private
operator offering service to the public.
For proposed developments anticipated to generate 250 or
less trips in an average weekday, the study area will extend approximately
1/2 mile along the adjacent roadway in both directions from all access
points or to a major intersection along these roadways. For proposed
developments anticipated to generate more than 250 trips in an average
weekday, the study area will extend to approximately one mile along
the adjacent roadway in all directions from all access points or to
a major intersection along these roadways. The transportation engineer
shall seek guidance from the Township Engineer prior to the submission
of the transportation impact study.
Any mode or movement of passengers or goods while utilizing
the existing or future transportation infrastructure, including but
not limited to pedestrian, bicycle, rail (transit and freight), bus
(school and transit), vehicular, and truck traffic.
The total count of trips to and from a study site per unit
of land use as measured by parameters such as dwelling units, acres,
square footage, etc. The trip generation rates are determined by the
ITE Land Use Code most applicable or by approval by the Township Engineer
of an alternate data source.
This procedure compares a roadway or intersection approach
to its capacity (maximum number of vehicles that can pass a given
point during a given time period). The procedures described in the
most current Highway Capacity Manual, by the Transportation Research
Board, as outlined in the PennDOT Design Manual, Volume 2, or most
current, shall be followed.
This is a series of eight warrants which detail the minimum
traffic or pedestrian volume or other criteria necessary for the installation
of a traffic signal. These warrants are contained in the Manual on
Uniform Traffic Control Devices, most current edition; prepared by
the U.S. Department of Transportation, Federal Highway Administration.
4.
General requirements and standards. A transportation impact study
shall contain the following information:
A.
General site description.
(1)
The site description shall include the size, location, proposed
land uses, construction staging, and completion date of the proposed
land development. If the development is residential, types of dwelling
units and number of bedrooms shall also be included.
(2)
A brief description of other major existing and proposed land
development within the study area shall be provided.
(3)
The general site description shall also include probable socioeconomic
characteristics of potential site users to the extent that they may
affect the transportation needs of the site (i.e., number of senior
citizens).
B.
Transportation facilities description. The description shall contain
a full documentation of the proposed internal and existing external
transportation system. This description shall include proposed internal
vehicular, bicycle and pedestrian circulation, all proposed ingress
and egress locations, all internal roadway widths and rights-of-way,
parking conditions, traffic channelization, and any traffic signals
or other intersection control devices at all intersections within
the site. The site design shall be shown to maximize potential public
transportation usage to and from the development, such as providing
adequate turning radius at all access points to allow a bus to enter
the development. Bus shelter and sign locations shall be designated
where appropriate. The report shall describe the entire external roadway
system within the study area. Major intersections in the study area
shall be identified and sketched. All existing and proposed public
transportation services and facilities within a one mile radius of
the site shall also be documented. All future highway improvements,
including proposed construction and traffic signalization, shall be
noted. This information shall be obtained from the three-year Transportation
Improvement Program and the twelve-year State Transportation Improvement
Program (TIP) from the Delaware Valley Region Planning Commission
and from the Pennsylvania Department of Transportation. Any proposed
roadway improvements due to proposed surrounding developments shall
be recorded.
C.
Existing traffic conditions.
(1)
Existing traffic conditions shall be measured and documented
for all roadways and intersections in the study area. Existing traffic
data must include twenty-four-hour automatic traffic recorder counts
with classification and speed data at the proposed site driveway.
Data must be obtained bidirectionally. In addition, existing peak
highway hour(s) traffic, and if appropriate, peak development generated
hour(s) traffic shall be recorded. Manual turning movement counts
at major intersections in the study area shall be conducted, encompassing
the peak highway and development-generated hour(s) (if appropriate)
and documentation shall be included in the report. The use of any
traffic count data greater than two years of age by date of submission
of the transportation impact study shall be prohibited without prior
approval of the Township Engineer.
(2)
Turning movement counts shall include heavy vehicles, pedestrian,
bicycle, and transit (where available) data. A volume/capacity analysis
based upon existing volumes shall be performed during the peak highway
hour(s) and the peak development-generated hour for all roadway and
major intersections in the study area. Levels of service and delays
shall be determined and provided in tabulation and graphic form for
each studied intersection and by turning movement. This analysis will
determine the adequacy of the existing roadway system to serve the
current traffic demand. Roadways and/or intersections experiencing
levels of service D, E or F shall be noted as congested locations
and an improvement shall be identified to mitigate identified deficiencies.
Signal optimization shall not be identified as a mitigation measure
as this is considered normal signal maintenance.
(3)
As part of the existing traffic conditions, a five-year crash
history (both reportable and nonreportable records), for each approach
of any studied intersection shall be obtained and reviewed. Crash
records shall be obtained through Warminster Township Police Department
and/or Pennsylvania Department of Transportation and shall be analyzed
for causation factors, patterns with the intent to provide possible
trend data or mitigation measures.
(4)
An electronic data file shall be provided to the Township Engineer
for any and all recorded traffic data, including manual turning movement
counts and automatic traffic recorder counts.
D.
Future no-build traffic conditions. The total future traffic shall
be calculated and consist of the existing traffic expanded to the
greater of the following: a three-year traffic data projection or
to the year of the anticipated full build-out of the proposed development.
The existing traffic shall be expanded with the annual growth rates
available from PennDOT Bureau of Planning and shall be compounded
annually. Levels of service and delays shall be determined and provided
in tabulation and graphic form for each studied intersection and by
turning movement. This analysis will determine the adequacy of the
future roadway system to serve the future traffic demand. Roadways
and/or intersections experiencing levels of service D, E or F shall
be noted as congested locations and an improvement shall be identified
to mitigate identified deficiencies. Signal optimization shall not
be identified as a mitigation measure as this is considered normal
signal maintenance.
E.
Transportation impact of the development. Estimation of vehicular
trips to result from the proposed land development shall be completed
from the average daily peak highway hour(s) and peak hour(s) of the
development generator(s). The peak hour analysis is assumed to be
a.m., p.m. and Saturday peak hours unless the Township Engineer has
approved the elimination of one or more of the aforementioned peak
hours. Vehicular trip generation rates to be used for this calculation
shall be obtained from the most current Institute of Transportation
(ITE) trip generation rates. These development-generated traffic volumes
shall be provided for the in-bound and out-bound traffic movements
as estimated, and the reference source(s) and methodology followed
shall be documented. No assumptions for the reduction of trip generation
data with respect to pass-by trips, diverted-link trips, and internal
capture shall be used without supporting documentation and approval
by the Township Engineer. All turning movements shall be calculated.
These generated volumes shall be distributed to the study area and
assigned to the existing roadways and intersections throughout the
study area. Documentation of all assumptions used in the distribution
and assignment phase shall be provided. Traffic volumes shall be assigned
to individual access points. Pedestrian volumes shall also be calculated,
if applicable. If school crossings are to be used, pedestrian volumes
shall be assigned to each crossing. Any characteristics of the site
that will cause particular trip generation problems shall be noted.
F.
Analysis of the transportation impact.
(1)
An estimation of vehicular trips to result from the proposed
land development shall be completed for the average daily peak highway
hour(s) and peak development-generated hour(s) combined with the existing
traffic expanded to the greater of the following: a three-year traffic
data projection or to the year of the anticipated full build-out of
the proposed development. In addition, the study shall include any
traffic generated by other proposed developments in the study area.
The existing traffic shall be expanded to a future year with the annual
growth rates available from PennDOT Bureau of Planning and shall be
compounded annually.
(2)
Vehicular trip generation rates to be used for this calculation
shall be obtained from the most current edition of the Institute of
Transportation Engineers (ITE), Trip Generation Manual. For all land
use proposals not listed in the ITE Manual, the transportation engineer
shall seek guidance from the Township Engineer. All turning movements
for site traffic shall be calculated. These generated volumes shall
be distributed to the study area and assigned to the existing roadways
and intersections throughout the study area. Documentation of all
assumptions used in the distribution and assignment phase shall be
provided, and numerical data shall be provided in both graphical and
tabulation form. Traffic volumes shall be assigned to individual access
points. Pedestrian volumes shall also be calculated, if applicable.
If school crossings are to be used, pedestrian volumes shall be assigned
to each crossing. Any characteristics of the site that will cause
particular trip generation problems shall be noted.
G.
Sight distance analysis. The study shall include a sight distance
analysis for all movements into and out of the proposed access driveway.
The analysis shall include the existing/available stopping sight distance
and the calculated minimum required stopping sight distance for all
anticipated movements into and out of the proposed site access(es).
The calculated minimum required stopping sight distance shall be based
on the eighty-fifth-percentile speed as indicated in the automatic
traffic recorder data by approach.
H.
Conclusions and recommended improvements.
(1)
Levels of service and time delays for all roadways and intersections,
by turning movement, shall be listed and shown in graphical and tabulation
form. All roadways and/or intersections turning movements showing
a level of service below C, or dropping one level of service with
a greater than ten-second delay over the no-build scenario, or showing
a level of service F and a greater than ten-second delay over the
no-build scenario, shall be considered deficient, and specific recommendations
for the elimination of these problems shall be listed. The listing
of recommended improvements shall include, but not be limited to,
the following elements: internal circulation design, site access location
and design, external roadway and intersection design and improvements,
traffic signal installation and operation, including signal timing,
and transit design improvements. All physical roadway improvements
shall be shown in sketches. Existing and/or future public transportation
service shall also be addressed. A listing of all actions to be undertaken
to increase present public transportation usage and improve service,
if applicable, shall be included.
(2)
The listing of recommended improvements for both roadways and
transit shall include, for each improvement, the party responsible
for the improvement, the cost and funding of the improvement, and
the completion date for the improvement.
(3)
An executive summary shall be included in the transportation
impact study providing a less detailed discussion of impacts identified
in the more comprehensive body of the report. The executive summary
shall include a level of service/delay matrix, by peak hour, intersection
turning movements for all studied scenarios (existing, future, no-build,
build and mitigation). The matrix is to provide a clear understanding
of deficiencies and mitigation measures.
5.
Time of submission.
A.
The transportation impact study shall be submitted to Warminster
Township Planning Commission and the Bucks County Planning Commission
with the preliminary plan application. It is strongly recommended
to submit the transportation impact study at the sketch plan stage
for large-scale land development and subdivision applications.
B.
If the proposed land development requires a Pennsylvania Department
of Transportation (PennDOT) highway occupancy permit (HOP), the applicant
shall initiate the HOP process simultaneously to the preliminary plan
submission in accordance with latest PennDOT procedures. The developer
shall include the Township Engineer in any and all meetings, including
the scoping meeting and/or or correspondence or discussions regarding
the permitting process. In addition, any documentation submitted as
part of the HOP process shall be simultaneously submitted to the Township
for review purposes.
(1)
TIS/HOP scoping meeting shall be scheduled to coincide with
sketch plan, if this submission is made. This meeting will provide
discussion of the project and potential problems and set the parameters
of the TIS for PennDOT review.
(2)
TIS shall be submitted to PennDOT for review and approval simultaneously
with the preliminary plan submission.
(3)
Construction plans for HOP shall be submitted to PennDOT for
review and approval simultaneously with the final plan submission.
6.
Implementation (subdivision land development building permits). The
Warminster Township Planning Commission, the Bucks County Planning
Commission, the Township Engineer, and the Township Supervisors shall
review the transportation impact study to analyze its adequacy in
solving any traffic problems that will occur as a result of construction
of the proposed subdivision or land development. The Township Supervisors
may decide that certain improvements on or adjacent to the site are
mandatory for plan approval and may attach these conditions to the
approval. If the Township Supervisors conclude that additional improvements
are necessary, the developer shall have the opportunity to resubmit
alternative improvements designs for approval.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Preliminary approval of the site plan must be obtained for the entire
proposed development. Final approval may be obtained section by section,
but such development section shall be specified on the preliminary
plan and must be numbered in the proposed order that they are to be
developed. Such order of development must be adhered to and, if changes
are required, plans must be refiled and reviewed and approved.
2.
Bonding procedures shall be required before final approval of the
land development plan and shall guarantee the improvements by the
builder of streets, sidewalks, curbs, streetlighting, street trees,
drainage facilities, utilities, and other facilities that the Board
of Supervisors may deem necessary.
3.
Arrangement of buildings and facilities.
A.
All of the elements of the site plan shall be harmoniously and efficiently
organized in relation to topography, the size and shape of the plot,
the character of the adjoining property, and the type and size of
the buildings in order to produce a livable and economic land use
pattern.
B.
Arrangement of buildings shall be in favorable relation to the natural
topography, existing desirable trees, views within and beyond the
site, and exposure to the sun and other buildings on the site.
4.
Access and circulation.
A.
Access to the dwellings and circulation between buildings and other
important project facilities for vehicular and pedestrian traffic
shall be comfortable and convenient for the occupants.
B.
Access and circulation for fire-fighting equipment, furniture moving
vans, fuel trucks, garbage collection, deliveries, and snow removal
shall be planned for efficient operation and convenience.
C.
Walking distance from the main entrance of building to a street,
driveway or parking area shall typically be less than 100 feet; exceptions
to this standard should be reasonably justified by compensating advantages,
such as desirable views and site preservation through adaptation to
topography. In no case shall the distance exceed 250 feet.
5.
Yards.
A.
Yards shall assure adequate privacy, desirable outlook, adequate
natural light and ventilation, convenient access to and around the
dwellings, and other essential uses.
6.
Grading.
A.
Grading shall be designed for buildings, lawns, paved areas, and
other facilities to assure adequate surface drainage, safe and convenient
access to and around the buildings, and for the conservation of desirable
existing vegetation and natural ground forms.
B.
Grading around buildings shall be designed to be in harmony with
natural topography and to minimize earthwork and the need for deep
footings.
7.
Streets.
A.
Streets shall be provided on the site where necessary to furnish
principal traffic ways for convenient access to the living units and
other important facilities on the property.
B.
Streets proposed to be dedicated for public use and maintenance shall
conform to the design requirements and specifications of this chapter,
Warminster Township Specifications, and Pennsylvania Department of
Transportation Publication 408 Specifications, and any amendments
thereto.
8.
Driveways.
A.
Driveways shall be provided on the site where necessary for convenient
access to the living units, garage compounds, parking areas, service
entrances of buildings, collection of refuse, and all other necessary
services. Driveways shall enter public streets at safe locations.
B.
Driveways shall be planned for convenient circulation for suitable
traffic needs and safety.
D.
All driveways shall be paved and constructed in accordance with the
Warminster Township and/or Pennsylvania Department of Transportation
Specifications and Design Standards for Roads and Streets.
9.
10.
Sidewalks.
A.
Street sidewalks and on-site walks shall be provided for convenience
and safe access to all living units from streets, driveways, parking
areas or garages, and for convenient circulation and access to all
project facilities.
B.
Width, alignment, and gradient of walks shall provide safety and
convenience for pedestrian traffic. Small jogs in the alignment shall
be avoided.
C.
The alignment and gradient of walks shall be coordinated with the
grading plan to prevent the passage of concentrated surface water
on or across the walk and to prevent the pocketing of surface water
by walks.
11.
Refuse collections.
A.
Outdoor collection stations shall be provided for garbage and trash
removal, in accordance with current Township requirements, when individual
collection is not made and indoor storage is not provided.
B.
Collection stations shall be located to avoid being offensive and
shall be convenient for both collectors and tenants. Trash containers
shall be screened or concealed from direct view of the public.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
Plotting of individual lots for commercial purposes shall be avoided
in favor of a comprehensive design of the land to be used for such
purposes.
2.
Preliminary approval of the site plan must be obtained for the entire
proposed development. Final approval may be obtained section by section,
but such development sections shall be specified on the preliminary
plan and must be numbered in the proposed order that they are to be
developed. Such order of development must be adhered to and, if changes
are required, plans must be refiled and reviewed and approved.
3.
Bonding procedures shall be required before final approval of the
land development plan, and shall guarantee the improvements by the
builder of streets, sidewalks, curbs, streetlighting, landscaping,
drainage facilities, utilities, and other facilities that the Board
of Supervisors may deem necessary.
4.
Arrangement of buildings and facilities. All of the elements of the
site plan shall be harmoniously and efficiently organized in relation
to topography, the size and shape of the plot, the character of the
adjoining property, and the type and size of the buildings in order
to produce a livable and economical land use pattern.
5.
Additional width of streets adjacent to areas proposed for nonresidential
use may be required as deemed necessary by the Board of Supervisors
to assure the free flow of through traffic from vehicles entering
or leaving parking areas.
6.
When adjacent lots proposed for nonresidential uses front on a collector
or arterial street, the owner may be required to provide a service
road for ingress and egress or, in lieu thereof, the owner may be
required to provide an area adjacent to the proposed lots for off-street
parking purposes.
7.
Every effort shall be made to protect adjacent residential areas
from potential nuisance of the proposed nonresidential development,
including the provisions of extra depths in parcels backing up on
existing or potential residential developments and provisions for
a permanently landscaped evergreen buffer strip.
8.
Streets carrying nonresidential traffic shall not normally be extended
to the boundaries of the adjacent existing or potential residential
areas or connected to streets intended for predominantly residential
traffic.
9.
Parking areas shall be located or designed in such a manner that
they are visibly secluded from eye level of the surrounding area.
Grading techniques, raised berms, landscaping, or fencing are satisfactory
methods to create such seclusion.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009; as amended by Ord. 737, 1/19/2017]
The owner, developer, or subdivider shall install erosion and
sedimentation control measures for any site improvements. The measures
shall be shown on a plan in accordance with present Township ordinances
and Bucks County Conservation District standards. All required permits
shall be obtained from the Bucks County Conservation District prior
to approval by the Township.
A.
All erosion and sedimentation control measures shall be regulated in accordance with Chapter 19, Erosion and Sediment Control, of the Code of the Township of Warminster, as well as all rules and regulations established by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.
B.
No regulated earth disturbance activities within the Township shall
commence until the Township approves an erosion and sedimentation
control plan for construction activities.
C.
Evidence of any necessary permit(s) for regulated earth disturbance
activities from the appropriate DEP regional office or County Conservation
District shall be provided to the Township.
D.
A copy of the erosion and sedimentation control plan, narrative report,
and any required permits shall be available on the project site at
all times.
E.
Additional erosion and sedimentation control designed standards and
criteria shall be applied where infiltration BMPs are proposed.
(1)
Areas proposed for infiltration BMPs shall be protected from
sedimentation and compaction during the construction phase to maintain
maximum infiltration capacity. Barriers such as orange construction
fencing should be used to protect and keep construction traffic away
from the area where infiltration BMPs are proposed. Inlets or pipes
that are installed to these systems should be completely sealed or
protected and monitored until the drainage areas are completely stabilized.
(2)
Infiltration BMPs shall not be constructed nor receive runoff
until the entire contributory drainage area to the infiltration BMP
has achieved final stabilization.
F.
Sediment traps per design criteria presented in the PADEP "Erosion
and Sediment Control Program Manual" are recommended to be used in
lieu of sediment basins.
G.
Detailed construction schedules shall be included in all erosion
and sediment control plans and stormwater management plans reviewed
by the Bucks County Conservation District.
[Ord. 690, 9/10/2009]
1.
General regulations.
A.
Grade changes and excavations shall not encroach upon the tree protection
zone (TPZ).
B.
No toxic materials shall be stored within 100 feet of a TPZ, including
petroleum based and/or derived products.
C.
The area within the TPZ shall not be built upon, regraded or modified
nor shall any materials be stored there either temporarily or permanently.
Vehicles and equipment shall not be parked in the TPZ.
D.
When tree stumps are located within 10 feet of the TPZ, the stumps
shall be removed by means of a stump grinder to minimize the effect
on surrounding root systems.
E.
Tree roots which must be severed shall be cut by a backhoe or similar
equipment aligned radially to the tree. This method reduces the lateral
movement of the roots during excavation which if done by other methods
could damage the intertwined roots of adjacent trees.
F.
Within four hours of any severance of roots, all tree roots that
have been exposed and/or damaged shall be trimmed cleanly and covered
temporarily with moist peat moss, moist burlap, or other moist biodegradable
material to keep them from drying out until permanent cover can be
installed.
G.
Point discharges of stormwater shall not discharge into the TPZ except
at existing channels or waterways.
H.
Sediment, retention, and detention basins shall not be located within
the TPZ.
2.
Tree protection areas shall be shown on the landscape plan and the
grading plan submitted by the applicant. Tree trunk locations as well
as tree canopy locations shall be shown.
3.
Prior to construction the TPZ shall be delineated by the following
methods:
A.
Tree protection during construction:
(1)
Tree protection areas shall be delineated to implement the standards
contained in this chapter regarding preservation of trees, woodlands,
and forests during the development and construction process.
(2)
Tree protection area. An area that is radial to the trunk of
a tree. The tree protection area shall be 15 feet from the trunk of
the tree to be retained, or the distance from the trunk to the dripline
(the line marking the outer edge of the branches of the tree), whichever
is greater. Where there is a group of trees or woodlands, the tree
protection area shall be the aggregate of the protection areas for
the individual trees.
B.
Protection from mechanical injury. Prior to any site work, clearing,
tree removal, grading or construction, the tree protection area shall
be delineated by the following methods:
(1)
The tree protection area that is delineated on the site prior
to construction shall conform to the approved development plans.
(2)
All trees scheduled to remain shall be marked. Where groups
of trees exist, only the trees on the edge need to be marked. The
Township shall then inspect the limits of clearing.
(3)
Once agreement is reached on the limits of clearing, a forty-eight-inch
high snow fence or other suitable fence, such as super silt fence,
mounted on steel posts located eight feet on center, shall be placed
along the boundary of the tree protection area.
(4)
Trees being removed shall not be felled, pushed or pulled into
a tree protection area or into trees that are to be retained.
(5)
Trees shall not be used for roping, cables, signs or fencing.
Nails and spikes shall not be driven into trees.
4.
Protection from grade change.
A.
When the original grade cannot be retained at the tree protection
area line, a retaining wall shall be constructed outside the tree
protection area.
B.
The retaining wall shall be designed to comply with the Township
standards for retaining walls.
C.
To ensure the survival of trees, the following methods shall be used:
(1)
The top of the wall shall be four inches above the finished
grade level.
(2)
The wall shall be constructed of large stones, brick, building
tile, concrete blocks, or treated wood beams (wood treated with CCA
shall not be permitted) not less than six inches by six inches. A
means for drainage through the wall shall be provided so water will
not accumulate on either side of the wall. Weep holes shall be required
within any wall.
(3)
Any severed roots as a result of excavation shall be trimmed
so that their edges are smooth and are cut back to a lateral root
if exposed.
5.
Trees damaged during construction.
A.
Tree trunks and exposed roots damaged during construction shall be
protected from further damage.
B.
Damaged branches shall be pruned according to National Arborist Association
standards. All cuts shall be made sufficiently close to the trunk
or parent limb but without cutting into the branch collar or leaving
a protruding stub. All necessary pruning cuts must be made to prevent
bark from being torn from the tree and to facilitate rapid healing.
6.
Protection from excavations. When there is no alternative but to
locate an electrical or other small utility line within a tree protection
area, the Township shall determine the most desirable location for
the line and the following guidelines shall be used: