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Town of Coventry
Town of Coventry Zoning Ordinance
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§ 255-1350

Criteria for approval.

§ 255-1350. Criteria for approval.

  • A. The proposed project shall, in the opinion of the Commission, provide benefits that cannot have been derived from a conventional subdivision with a similar number of dwelling units. The Commission shall have the authority and flexibility to approve a RCD that provides useful and valuable open space and minimizes impervious surfaces. To gain approval, the developer shall configure lots, and streets, and parking areas to achieve those objectives. The Commission may suggest modifications to the plan if deemed necessary. In reviewing a proposal, the Commission shall consider the following criteria:

    • (1) Individual lots, buildings, streets, and parking areas shall be designed and situated to minimize alteration of the natural site features to be preserved.

    • (2) The usability of the open space intended for recreation or public use shall be determined by the size, shape, topographic, and location requirements of the particular purpose proposed for the site.

    • (3) The open space shall include irreplaceable natural features located in the tract (such as, but not limited to stream beds, significant stands of trees, individual trees of significant size, and rock outcroppings).

    • (4) The open space intended for recreation or public use shall be easily accessible to pedestrians, which accessibility shall meet the needs of the handicapped and elderly.

    • (5) The suitability of the open space intended for scenic value purposes shall be determined by its visibility from a significant number of units or buildings or length of public or private streets.

    • (6) Diversity and originality in lot layout and individual building design shall be encouraged to achieve the best possible relationship between development and the land.

    • (7) Individual lots, buildings, and units shall be arranged and situated to relate to surrounding properties, to improve the view from and the view of buildings, and to lessen area devoted to motor vehicle access.

    • (8) Individual lots, buildings, units, and parking areas shall be situated to avoid the adverse effects of shadows, noise, and traffic on the residents of the site.

    • (9) The open space shall, where applicable, encourage agricultural and forest management activities so long as impacts to the residential community are minimized. Areas in which prime agricultural soils are located shall be preserved to the greatest extent possible.

  • B. The applicant shall demonstrate compliance with Section IX (Residential Cluster Development General, Articles A-G) of Appendix B, Subdivision Regulations, of the Code of Ordinances of the Town.