This Part 2 of this chapter provides specific standards for the design of subdivisions as well as requirements for improvements. Minimum standards of design are specified for each element of design or improvement. This article outlines the general goals of this Part 2. The provisions of these standards may be waived by the approving authority upon written request by the applicant, provided the applicant provides appropriate alternatives which demonstrate compliance with the desired outcome to a higher degree or will produce more desirable results than the application of a specific standard.
No owner of land shall make a subdivision of any land or proceed with the improvement or sale of lots in a subdivision, or the construction of any improvements, unless and until a plan is submitted and approved under this Part 2 or Part 3.
Not more than one building designed or available for use for dwelling purposes shall be erected, placed, or converted to use as such on any lot in the City zoned residential without the express consent of the Planning Commission. The placement of multiple residential structures on one lot requires approval under Part 3, Land Development. The approval of such an application shall be deemed the approval necessary to comply with this section. Accessory structures, such as garages, sheds, and pools, are not governed by this section.
The design of a subdivision shall be based upon an analysis of the existing conditions on the site, including all natural and man-made features. The analysis shall include an examination of the opportunities and constraints of the site based upon the existing conditions. The site analysis shall also consider the relationship of the site to the surrounding neighborhood. The project narrative shall summarize the site analysis and how it influenced the design of the subdivision.
Before considering requests for waivers or modifications of the standards or requirements contained in this Part 2, the Commission may require the applicant to prepare an alternative development plan which complies with the requirements of this Part 2. The original proposal shall then be considered in light of the alternative presented.
No construction-related permit, including foundation permits, building permits, or other related permits, shall be issued for a lot within a subdivision unless the plans approved under Part 2 or Part 3 have been approved and recorded and all improvements shown thereon have been installed or bonded. It is strongly recommended, but not required, that applicants withhold application for such permits until approvals under Part 2 or Part 3 have been obtained, as significant changes may occur during the approval process which could substantially alter the plans required for those permits.
All permits necessary for the construction of improvements and buildings upon lots shown on an approved subdivision plan shall be obtained and substantially completed within five years of the date of approval. Lots which do not comply with this section will require new approval relative to the physical improvements within the subdivision after the expiration of the fifth year. Application for such approval shall be made under the appropriate article(s) of this part.