Standards to be met
The zoning board of review may not grant a special use permit unless it finds evidence to the satisfaction of the following standards that is entered into the record of the proceedings:
(1) That the special use is specifically authorized by this ordinance, and setting forth the exact subsection of this ordinance containing the authorization;
(2) That the special use meets all of the applicable requirements, development and performance standards, and criteria set forth in section 12 of this ordinance, the subsection of this ordinance authorizing the special use and that the use will comply with all set forth in sections 4 and 7 of this ordinance; except that the board may grant a variance from dimensional setbacks incorporated in the development standards of section 4.4(c) of the coastal resources overlay district, in accordance with the requirements of section 11 of this ordinance;
(3) That it will not substantially or permanently injure the appropriate use of surrounding property;
(4) That the granting of the special use permit will not alter the general character of the surrounding area or impair the intent or purpose of this ordinance or the comprehensive plan of the Town of Narragansett. In so doing, the board shall consider, whether or not satisfactory provisions and arrangements have been or will be made concerning, but not limited to, the following matters, where applicable:
a. Ingress and egress to the lot and to existing or proposed structures thereon with particular reference to automotive and pedestrian safety and convenience, traffic flow and control, and access in case of fire, emergency or catastrophe;
b. Off-street parking and loading areas where required, with particular attention to noise, glare or odor effects of the special use permit on adjoining lots;
c. Trash, storage and delivery areas
d. Utilities, with reference to locations, availability and compatibility;
e. Screening and buffering with reference to type, dimensions and character;
f. Signs, if any, and exterior lighting with reference to glare, traffic safety, and compatibility and harmony with lots in the zoning district;
g. Required yards and other open space;
h. General compatibility with lots in the same or abutting zoning districts.
(5) That the granting of the special use permit will substantially serve the public convenience and welfare;
(6) That the use will not result in or create conditions inimical to the public health, safety, morals, and general welfare;
(7) In addition to the above, the zoning board of review shall consider:
a. Access to air, light, views, and solar access.
b. Public access to water bodies, rivers and streams.
c. The conservation of energy and energy efficiency.
(8) Special conditions. In granting a variance or special use permit, or in making any determination upon which it is required to pass after public hearing under this ordinance, the board may apply such special conditions that may, in the opinion of the board, be required to promote the intent and purposes of the comprehensive plan of the town and this ordinance. Failure to abide by any special conditions attached to a grant shall constitute a zoning violation. Such special conditions shall be based on competent credible evidence on the record, be incorporated into the decision, and may include, but are not limited to, provisions for:
a. Minimizing adverse impact of the development upon other land, including the type, intensity, design, and performance of activities;
b. Minimizing adverse impact upon town services and facilities;
c. Controlling the sequence of development, including when it must be commenced and completed;
d. Controlling the duration of use or development and the time within which any temporary structure must be removed;
e. Assuring satisfactory installation and maintenance of required public improvements;
f. Designating the exact location and nature of development;
g. Establishing detailed records by submission of drawings, maps, plats, or specifications;
h. Minimizing any adverse environmental impacts; and
i. Establishing hours of operation of the use.
The zoning board of review may not extend or enlarge a special use permit except by granting a new special use permit.
(Ch. 1117, § 13, 12-18-2023; Ch. 1140, § 5, 12-15-2025)