The following criteria are to be used by the Planning Board,
or, in the case of a minor site plan, the City Planner, in judging
applications for site plan reviews and shall serve as minimum requirements
for approval of the site plan. The site plan must also comply with
all other sections of this chapter. The site plan shall be approved
unless, in the judgment of the Planning Board, or, in the case of
a minor site plan, the City Planner, the applicant is not able to
reasonably meet one or more of these standards. In all instances,
the burden of proof shall be on the applicant.
A. Compliance with all applicable standards. The proposed development
shall comply with all good neighbor standards, performance standards,
the Zoning Ordinance and, if applicable, standards of the Natural Resource
Districts.
B. Other laws. The proposed development satisfies the requirements set
forth in this chapter, other local ordinances, and applicable state
and federal laws.
C. Compatibility with neighboring buildings. The bulk, location, and
height of proposed structures are compatible with neighboring properties.
D. Natural features. The structures and other improvements are harmonious
with the site's natural features, preserve the natural landscape,
and minimize grade changes.
E. Public safety. Access to the site and structures is adequate for
emergency responders and will not create fire hazards or other safety
hazards. The assigned street number shall be prominently displayed
on the front of the building or on a sign post.
F. Lighting. The proposed exterior lighting does not create glare or
hazards to motorists, is adequate for safety, and does not damage
the value or diminish the usability of adjacent properties.
G. Landscaping. Buffers, screens, and on-site landscaping is provided
to minimize the impact of parking areas and other features on neighboring
property.
H. Off-site impacts. The proposed development does not have a significant
detrimental effect on the use and peaceful enjoyment of abutting property
as a result of noise, vibrations, fumes, odors, dust, or other cause.
I. Vehicle circulation and pedestrian access. The provisions for vehicular
loading, unloading, parking, and vehicular and pedestrian circulation
on the site and onto adjacent public streets do not create hazardous
and unsafe conditions.
J. Flood hazards. The design conforms with flood hazard protection requirements.
K. Wastewater. Adequate provisions are made for disposal of wastewater.
L. Solid waste. Adequate provisions are made for disposal of solid waste,
including provisions for recycling.
M. Stormwater and erosion controls. Adequate provisions are made to
control erosion, sedimentation, and stormwater runoff and shall comply
with stormwater and erosion control requirements of the City of Saco
Zoning Ordinance.
N. Water supply. The proposed water supply is sufficient for the proposed
use, and for fire protection purposes. No degradation of service in
the area shall occur as a result of the proposed development. The
regular maintenance of private fire hydrants shall be documented.
O. Hazardous materials. Adequate provisions are made for the transportation,
storage and disposal of hazardous substances and materials.
P. Wildlife, scenery, and unique and critical areas. The proposed development
will not have an adverse impact on significant scenic vistas, significant
wildlife habitats, or unique natural areas that could be avoided by
reasonable modification of the plan.
Q. Traffic. The proposed development will not cause safety hazards and
will be consistent with generally accepted complete street standards.
R. Water quality. Surface water impacts of the proposed development
shall be no greater than allowed and permitted under state law.
S. Utilities. The proposed development does not impose an unreasonable
burden on sewers, storm drains, water lines, or other public utilities.
T. Audio-visual buffer. Setbacks and screening provide a robust audio/visual
buffer so as to minimize adverse impacts on nearby properties.
For proposed development located within the Resource Protection
Overlay District, Shoreland Zoning Overlay District, or Coastal Development
Overlay District, the Planning Board shall find that the proposed
development:
A. Will maintain safe and healthful conditions;
B. Will not result in water pollution, erosion, or sedimentation to
surface waters;
C. Will adequately provide for the disposal of all wastewater;
D. Will not have an adverse impact on spawning grounds, fish, aquatic
life, bird or other wildlife habitat;
E. Will conserve shore cover and visual, as well as actual, points of
access to inland and coastal waters;
F. Will protect archaeological and historic resources in accordance
with the Comprehensive Plan;
G. Will not adversely affect existing commercial fishing or maritime
activities;
H. Will avoid problems associated with floodplain development and use;
I. Is in conformance with the provisions of the Zoning Ordinance and land use standards.
J. If located in a structure, the structure is in an approved subdivision
and will not violate any other local ordinance or regulation or any
state law which Saco is responsible for enforcing.