Town of Centreville - Design Standards

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Town of
Centreville
Development
Design Standards
ADOPTED OCTOBER 7, 2010
Originally Adopted: October 7, 2010
Amended by Ordinance No. 12-2025
Effective Date of Current Revision: October 8, 2025

TABLE OF CONTENTS ___________________________________
1. GENERAL …………………………………………………… Page 6
A.) Background
B.) Purpose and Aspirations
C.) Applicability
D.) Severability
E.) Effective Date
F.) Authority
G.) Recognizing Historic Content
H.) Recognizing Green Building
2. RESIDENTIAL DESIGN…………………………………… Page 11
A.) Streets
1. Network Design
2. Street Signage
3. Specifications
B.) Sidewalk and Pedestrian
1. Connectivity
2. Specifications
C.) Structures
1. General Design
2. Building Materials
3. Roof Line Expression
4. Windows
5. Articulation of Walls
6. Front Yard/Entrances
7. Individual Outdoor Spaces
8. Location of Garages
D.) Open Space/Recreation
1. Open Space
2. Recreational Space
E.) Lighting
1. Residential
2. Sports and Athletic Field Facilities
3. Prohibited
4. Exempt
3. MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DESIGN……………… Page 31
A.) Structures
1. Front Yard and Building Entrance
2. Roof Line Expression
3. Architectural Features
B.) Open Space/Recreation
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1. Common Areas
2. Individual Outdoor Space
C.) Multi-Family Services
1. Mailbox Locations
2. Bus Drop Off/Pick Up
3. Screening of Trash and Service Areas
D.) Utilities
E.) Lighting
1. Residential
2. Sports and Athletic Field Facilities
3. Prohibited
4. Exempt
4. COMMERCIAL……………………………………………... Page 46
A.) Parking
1. Location of Parking Lot
2. Drive thru Businesses
3. Parking Lot Circulation
4. Parking Lot Landscaping
5. Parking Lot Screening
6. Pedestrian Walkways through Parking Lots
7. Mass Transit Bus Drop Off/Pick Up
B.) Sidewalk and Pedestrian
1. Connections
C.) Structures
1. Prominent Entrance
2. Massing
3. Ground Level Details
4. Screening Blank Walls
5. Plazas, Courtyards and Seating Areas
6. Site Furnishings
7. Orientation to Streets
8. Setbacks
9. Weather Protection
10. Roofline Expression
11. Concealing Rooftop Equipment
12. Expression
D.) Lighting
1. Height
2. Illumination
3. Design and Compatibility
4. Discouraged Lighting
5. Prohibited Lighting
6. Exempt Lighting
E.) Service Areas
1. Screening of Trash and Service Areas
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5. SIGNAGE…………….……………………………………… Page 71
A.) Signage
1. Definitions
2. General Provisions
3. Calculating Sign Area
4. General Sign Construction and Materials
5. Integration with Site/Building Design
6. Prohibited
B.) Design Standards for Permitted Signs
1. Awning Signs
2. Directional Signs (Instructional)
3. Freestanding Signs
4. Monument Signs
5. Ground Signs
6. Projection Signs
7. Wall Mounted Signs
8. Window Signs
6. UTILITIES/STORMWATER………………………………. Page 87
A.) Location and Appearance
B.) Maintenance and Ownership
7. DEFINITIONS………………….……………………………. Page 89
8. REVIEW PROCESS…………….……………………………. Page 93
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CHAPTER 1 CONTENTS __________ _
1. GENERAL ………………………………………………… Page 6
A.) Background
B.) Purpose and Aspirations
C.) Applicability
D.) Severability
E.) Effective Date
F.) Authority
G.) Recognizing Historic Content
H.) Recognizing Green Building
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1. GENERAL_______ __________
A. Background
The Town of Centreville Planning Commission, Staff and
URS Corporation were tasked in January 2008 by the Town
Council of Centreville with completing development design
standards for the Town. The Town has concern with the type
of development that could be placed in the surrounding areas
and wants to ensure all applicable parties involved in
development or redevelopment conform to the development
design standards set forth by the Town. Contributions
towards the development and coordination of this document
were made by the following:
Town Council
Frank C. Ogens, President
Norman P. Pinder Jr., Vice President
Timothy E. McCluskey, Council Member
Planning Commission
Christopher D. Frank, Chair
Elizabeth D. Brice, Vice Chair
Susan M. Lins, Secretary
Norma Coursey
Kara L. Snyder
Bob Elliott
Carol Hellmann
Planning Commission Emeritus
Dominik Barbalace
L. James Cooke, Jr.
Ed Novack
Brian Bagstad
Staff
Bob McGrory, Town Manager
Jane Saulsbury, Administrative Aide
Eva Kerchner, Zoning Administrator/Watershed Manager
Town Attorney
Stephen H. Kehoe
URS Corporation
Chris Rogers, AICP, Senior Project Manager
Debbie Pfeil, Senior Planner
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B. Purpose and Aspirations
The purpose of these Development Design Standards is to create development and
redevelopment that meet visual, functional and aesthetic objectives set forth by the Town. These
objectives include:
• Build on the rich historic heritage and character of Centreville.
• Create an environment that emphasizes beautification on each project.
• Maintain the scale and texture of development.
• Allow for infill development that is sensitive to its context.
• Encourage creative designs for sites and buildings.
• Support pedestrian movement and the use of bus transit and bicycles.
• Implement the Comprehensive Plan.
• Protect and enhance the Town’s environment for living and working in manners that
support and stimulate business and industry.
• Promote investment and occupancy in business and other properties.
• Encourage the renovation and adaptive reuse of all structures that have historic and/or
architectural significance.
• Ensure consistency with the objectives stated in the Community Plan.
The standards and guidelines in this ordinance intend to promote orderly community growth
which will protect and enhance property values for the community as a whole. Inherent in these
objectives is the expectation that well designed projects and economic development initiatives
support the community’s aesthetic values.
C. Applicability
After the effective date of this Ordinance, any new structures, any new structural alterations
and/or additions as well as signage associated with such new, altered or expanded structure shall
be in conformity with the provisions of this Ordinance. The following standards and guidelines
represent supplemental provisions to the Town of Centreville Code.
When the provisions of these standards and the Code of the Town of Centreville conflict, the
more restrictive regulation shall apply.
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The Planning Commission may review and recommend changes and/or additions to it to the
Town Council, which will consider such recommendations and any public comment prior to
voting on the changes.
D. Severability
Each section of the Ordinance and every part of each section is an independent section or part of
a section, and the holding of any section or part thereof to be unconstitutional, void or ineffective
for any cause shall not be deemed to affect the validity or constitutionality of any section or part
thereof.
E. Effective Date
All provisions of the Ordinance shall be in full force and effect on and after the effective date of
this ordinance.
F. Authority
The provisions of this document shall apply to all new development and redevelopment within
the zoning districts. Each development and/or redevelopment project shall be evaluated with
regard to how it achieves the overall design that meets the intent and directions of the
Development Design Standards.
Examples and illustrations included in this document are ways in which the intent of a standard
can be achieved. The graphic examples are meant to be illustrative, and are not the only
acceptable means towards accomplishing the intent of the standards. Applicants and project
designers are encouraged to consider designs, styles and techniques not pictured in the examples
that fulfill the intent of the design standard. The Town will expect the design of a project to
respond to each standard and guideline. The applicant assumes the burden of production and
persuasion to demonstrate how a proposed design meets the standards.
The standards in this document use the word “shall” while the guidelines use the word “should”.
Regardless of which term is used, each standard and guideline must be addressed by an
applicant. Listed below are helpful guidelines when designing or reviewing a proposed project:
• “Shall” statements indicate requirements and offer relatively little flexibility
unless choices are provided within the statements themselves. All projects must
include these elements as described.
• “Should” statements are encouraged guidelines.
The Planning Commission determines the applicability and conformity as well as the
interpretations of these regulations for each application. The flexibility within the Development
Design Standards are determined by the Planning Commission on a case by case basis for each
specific project.
G. Recognizing Historic Content
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New development should incorporate architectural elements that reinforce the established
character of Centreville. The table below can be used as a guide:
New Buildings, Signage and Landscaping
The following elements constitute existing features that could
be reflected in new buildings to include signage and landscaping:
a materials
b window proportions
c cornice or canopy lines
d roof treatment and pitch
e colors
Rehabilitating existing Historic Buildings
When rehabilitating existing historic buildings, property owners are
encouraged to follow the recommendations stated below:
a if original details and ornamentation are intact, they should
be retained and preserved.
b if original details and ornamentation are presently covered,
they should be exposed and/or repaired
c if original details are missing, missing parts should be
replaced to match the original in appearance. Remaining
pieces or old photos should be used as a guide.
If a proposed building is not adjacent to other buildings having a desirable architectural
character, the Planning Commission may require the application to use contextual elements
found elsewhere within the area.
H. Recognizing Green Building
Green building strategies are important not only because of their environmental and human
benefits, but for cost savings and increased affordability. The Town of Centreville promotes
energy efficient, healthy and environmentally friendly design and construction.
Energy efficient structures provide significant benefits including reductions in energy demand,
utility costs, and pollution, as well as enhanced human comfort, health, durability, quality, and
control. A voluntary program sponsored by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to
reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect the environment is the Energy Star Program.
While it is recognized there are several green building programs, it is understood these
techniques are important to the future sustainability of the environment.
The Design Standards are not intended to hinder any type of green building initiative. In
considering any proposal the Planning Commission will weigh the advantages of green design in
the context of the design standards.
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CHAPTER 2 CONTENTS ___________ ___
2. RESIDENTIAL DESIGN…………………………………… Page 11
A.) Streets
1. Network Design
2. Street Signage
3. Specifications
B.) Sidewalk and Pedestrian
1. Connectivity
2. Specifications
C.) Structures
1. General Design
2. Building Materials
3. Roof Line Expression
4. Windows
5. Articulation of Walls
6. Front Yard/Entrances
7. Individual Outdoor Spaces
8. Location of Garages
D.) Open Space/Recreation
1. Open Space
2. Recreational Space
E.) Lighting
1. Residential
2. Sports and Athletic Field Facilities
3. Prohibited
4. Exempt
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2. RESIDENTIAL DESIGN ____________
A. STREETS
1. Network Design
Intent-To strengthen and extend the existing established street network within the Town
of Centreville and to continue the overall character of the Town in new development.
New or extended streets in the Town of Centreville shall be designed to the standards
listed below.
Required Standards
• Any proposed street(s) shall be in consistent with the Transportation element in
the Comprehensive Plan.
• Isolated subdivisions providing no logical connections to existing streets or
community shall be discouraged.
• A street hierarchy shall be established in all residential subdivisions to include
both minor and collector streets. Driveways serving residential lots shall not
have access from collector streets within subdivisions.
• Intersections shall be designed for safety and to
facilitate both pedestrian and vehicular movement.
• Internal roads and aisles within multi-building
developments shall provide clearly discernable and safe
circulation throughout the development and especially
within parking areas.
• Proposed subdivision street layout plans shall
incorporate provisions for linkage streets which shall be
designed to provide future access and street connection
to adjacent vacant or undeveloped lands which may be
developed in the future.
• Linkage street stubs shall be provided on average of at least one (1) linkage street
right-of-way stub to adjacent vacant or undeveloped land greater than 5 acres.
The Planning Commission shall not approve any subdivision that does not fulfill
this requirement. The Planning Commission may require linkage street stubs to
land under 5 acres if it deems such linkage necessary to meet the Transportation
Element of the Comprehensive Plan.
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• When a proposed subdivision is being planned adjacent to previously subdivided
land and the previously subdivided land has incorporated linkage street stubs to its
perimeter as part of its recorded subdivision plan, the proposed subdivision shall
incorporate street connections to the existing linkage street right-of-way stubs as
part of its street system.
Encouraged Guidelines
• New development streets should be laid out in a grid pattern creating
numerous connections to existing streets. If possible, extension of existing
streets should be utilized. Streets do not necessarily need to be provided at
right angles and should be provided as appropriate based on surrounding
street network and natural characteristics of the site. Intersections,
however, must be generally provided at right angles.
Undesirable Desirable
• Transit stops and improvements where appropriate to the intensity of use and
expected demand should be provided.
• Residential lots fronting on collector and boulevard streets should take access
from alleys or minor side streets. Alleys shall be encouraged in residential
development.
• Traffic calming should be incorporated into the design of new subdivisions to
reduce vehicular speed and promote continuity in the traffic stream for a given
street or system of streets. Options may consist of traffic circles, islands, bump
outs and deflections or other techniques approved by the Planning Commission
and Town Engineer.
Discouraged
• Gated communities are discouraged.
2. Street Signage
The Town’s standard street sign has been identified in the pictures below, specific street
sign information may be provided by the Town’s Public Works Department.
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3. Street Specifications
The street specifications shall be designed as stated in accordance with the Town
Subdivision regulations.
B. SIDEWALK AND PEDESTRIAN
1. Connectivity
Intent-To improve the pedestrian environment by
making it easier, safer, and more comfortable to walk
among residences, to businesses, to the street sidewalk,
to transit stops, and to adjacent properties, and general
connections throughout the Town.
Required Standards
• True connections shall be created utilizing either sidewalks or pedestrian trails or
a combination of both to link the community or development to facilities such as
parkland, shopping centers, public buildings, employment centers, and schools.
Sidewalks shall be provided on both sides of residential streets. The Planning
Commission may approve another standard, if appropriate to a specific location or
situation.
• Sidewalks shall be provided along all street
frontages and connections to adjacent parcels and
development.
• Provisions shall be made to connect to future
development and planned or existing sidewalks or
pedestrian trails by dedication of easements for
future connections.
• Crosswalks shall be required to create a visual and tactile connection between
barrier free access curb ramps for the purpose of demarcation of appropriate
pedestrian street-crossing locations in the following instances:
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(a) At points of intersection between sidewalk and collector streets and at all
corners along a collector street or where local residential streets intersect
the collector street.
(b) At all signalized intersections adjoining the development site.
(c) At key locations to provide safe street crossing access to active or passive
parkland and open space areas, schools, playgrounds, neighborhood
shopping centers and similar pedestrian destinations within and adjoining
the development
• Pedestrian trails and connections shall be provided to
adjacent pedestrian facilities such as sidewalks and
trails and provide linkages to destinations within town
such as public buildings, parks, commercial centers and
other residential areas.
• Pedestrian trails shall be constructed of durable
materials including soil cement, fine crushed stone, or
paved with asphalt or other materials approved by the
Planning Commission.
• Existing informal paths or trails shall be recognized and
improved to ensure connection to and through sites, and
access to parks and open spaces.
• Sidewalks and trail crossing parking lots and driveways
shall be made more visible by varying the texture and
color or walkway materials.
Encouraged Guidelines
• Sidewalks, paths and trails should be integrated with
landscaping design.
2. Specifications
The sidewalk specifications shall be designed as stated in
accordance with the Highway Administration standards.
C. STRUCTURES
1. General Design
Intent-To assure that new neighborhoods and infill residential development will be of a
compatible style with existing neighborhoods within Centreville.
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Required Standards
• Single family residential units or infill
development shall be compatible with
surrounding residential structures.
Residential structures within new
subdivisions shall also be of a consistent
architectural style to that of the adjacent
neighborhoods and incorporate similar
material in the design of the homes, or
of an architectural style approved by the
Planning Commission.
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• Buildings shall incorporate front porches or stoops with or without overhangs
constructed of materials appropriate to the structure, if compatible with the
design.
Encouraged Guidelines
• Architectural styles that reflect traditional
architectural and historic context of the
Town of Centreville should be
encouraged.
• The use of additional compatible detail
and elements, such as picket fences, hedge
rows, trellises, etc., are also encouraged.
• The use of alleys and rear or side accessed
garages or parking areas behind homes is
encouraged.
2. Building Materials
Intent-To provide residential structures constructed of durable and aesthetically
appealing materials, and creates a quality living environment.
Required Standards
• Exterior materials shall consist of brick, stone,
stucco, fiber-cement composite, wood clap
board or shake type, or vinyl. Materials other
than standard building materials may be
approved by the Planning Commission.
• Roofing materials shall consist of asphalt or
wood shingle, slate, or colored segmented
metal roofing materials. Other materials may
be approved by the Planning Commission.
• No exposed concrete or concrete block shall be visible, except as approved by the
Planning Commission.
• Home foundation shall be faced with brick or pargeted stucco surfacing or other
materials as approved by the Planning Commission.
Encouraged Guidelines
• When vinyl siding is used, a variety of styles utilizing decorative architectural
elements should be used.
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3. Roof Line Expression
Intent- To ensure that rooflines present a distinct profile and appearance for the building
and express the neighborhood character.
Encouraged Guidelines
• Gables facing the street are encouraged.
• Dormers should be used to break up long
lengths of roof.
• No adjacent residential structures on the same
side of the street should have the same roof
face or style.
• Except for porches and dormers, structures should incorporate pitched roof forms
having a slope minimum of 6:12 (rise: run).
4. Windows
Intent-To enhance the scale of a building and delineate stories.
Required Standards
• Windows shall be provided in facades facing streets, comprising at least 20% of
the building wall area.
Encouraged Guidelines
• Windows should have visually prominent trim.
• Other decorative window features are
encouraged, such as:
(a) arched windows
(b) mullions
(c) awnings
(d) flower boxes
(e) window shutters, sized appropriately
and proportionately to the window
• A variety of window sizes and shapes that
contribute to overall composition is also
encouraged.
5. Articulation of Walls
Intent-To provide visual variety along the street facade.
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Required Standards
• Buildings shall include articulation along the facades facing and visible from
public view. Flat, bland walls are prohibited.
• Horizontal facades longer than 30
feet shall be articulated into
smaller units, consistent with the
residential scale. At least two of
the following methods shall be
included:
(a) distinctive roof forms
(b) window patterns
(c) color differentiations
(d) recesses/offsets/massing
• No adjacent residential structures shall have the same front façade.
6. Front Yard/Entrances
Intent-To provide separation between buildings and the
public pedestrian realm where the front yard functions as
usable outdoor space and provides a clear, welcoming, and
safe entry for pedestrians from the sidewalk into the
building.
Required Standards
• Primary building entrances shall be clearly identifiable and visible from the street
with well-defined walkways from pedestrian routes to building entrances.
• Primary building entrances shall face the street. If the doorway does not face the
street, a clearly marked and well maintained walkway shall connect the entrances
to the sidewalk.
Encouraged Guidelines
• Front yards should include an entrance sequence
between the sidewalk and the building including
elements such as porches, stoops, trellises, site
furnishings, low hedges, landscaped borders,
and special paving.
• Accent lighting may be used to highlight special
focal points, building/site entrances, public art
and special landscape features.
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• Signage identifying building address should be visible from the street and public
pedestrian walkway.
• Primary entrance doors should provide decorative elements such as architectural
trim, lighting and signage.
7. Individual Outdoor Spaces
Intent-To provide private outdoor space as distinct from common spaces that encourages
a sense of ownership by residents.
Encouraged Standards
• Outdoor spaces such as yards, decks, terraces, and patios should be delineated
from common public space. Delineation may consist of walls, fences, berms,
hedges, and landscaping.
• Outdoor spaces used to meet these standards should not be located within required
landscape buffer areas.
• Outdoor spaces should not be located adjacent to dumpster enclosures,
loading/service areas, or other incompatible uses.
8. Location of Garages
Intent-To ensure that garage doors do not dominate
street-facing facades, overshadow pedestrian
entryways and to allow free pedestrian access to
sidewalks by providing adequate driveway length for
parking of vehicles.
Required Standards
• A front loaded garage may extend up to 5 feet closer to the front lot line than the
building front façade provided it has a porch or other architectural feature to
soften the visual impact of the garage.
• Where improved alleys exist, access to garages shall be from the alley.
Encouraged Guidelines
• Garages should to be located to the rear or side of the residence, where possible.
• Garage doors should be of appropriate materials and enhance the character of the
structure and the residence.
• When garage doors are facing the street, they should be set back at least 20 feet
from the required sidewalk.
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D. OPEN SPACE/RECREATION
1. Open Space
Intent-To assure that residential developments within
the Town of Centreville provide visually attractive
open spaces, protected natural resources, and quality
recreational amenities.
Required Standards
• Areas of designated open space shall be located
to provide convenient access to open space by
residents within the community.
• Open space areas, with the exception of greens or specialized recreation areas,
shall be arranged to maintain contiguity with other designated open space areas or
similar areas on adjacent lands wherever possible in order to ensure the potential
for a contiguous open space network throughout the Town.
• Open space area shall be well
planned to protect existing scenic
view sheds.
• Areas of existing natural resources,
such as a stand of trees, habitat
areas, wetland or other unique
natural or historic feature shall be
incorporated into the overall open
space of the project.
• The Planning Commission may approve the use of improved wet pond storm
water facilities such as wet ponds and man-made ponds as open space as long as
such facilities also provide recreational and scenic amenities, such as fountains,
seating areas, piers, perimeter trails, etc, and that the facilities be appropriately
integrated into the landscape by location and landscaping. Stormwater facilities
should not comprise more than 25% of the total required open space. The
Planning Commission may approve stormwater facilities that compromise more
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than 25% of the required open space, if the Applicant can demonstrate additional
amenities are incorporated such as fountains, gazebos, and bridges that make the
pond more of an asset.
Encouraged Guidelines
• Central greens or squares should be provided within larger residential projects of
50 units or more.
• Any portion of open space designed to provide plant and animal habitat should be
kept as intact as possible. Trails should be designed to avoid fragmenting these
areas.
2. Recreational Space
Intent-To assure that residential developments within the Town of Centreville provide
quality recreational amenities to ensure quality of life for the passive and active
neighborhoods.
Required Standards
• Recreational Space within a residential project consisting of 20 units or more shall
provide at least two of the following from each category of recreational amenities.
Residential projects of less than 20 units shall provide at least two passive
recreation items per the zoning ordinance requirements.
Passive Recreation
(a) Greens
(b) Sitting area
(c) Picnic area
(d) Open lawn with trees
(e) Habitat/conservation areas
(f) Water features
(g) Historic structure or building(s)
(h) Community gardens or special interest landscape
(i) Rain garden
(j) Gazebo, pergola, or pavilion
(k) Outdoor site furnishings
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Active Recreation
a) Tot-lot or age appropriate playground
b) Play fields
c) Sports Courts such as tennis, basketball, volleyball, etc.
d) Bicycle paths and facilities
e) Trails
f) Swimming Pool
g) Club house or community center with indoor recreational facilities
h) Other appropriate recreational facilities as approved by the Planning
Commission
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• Parking for recreation and open space areas shall not be oversized so as to
discourage use as overflow parking for the residential areas.
• Recreational facilities shall be appropriately landscaped and lighted.
• Historic structures shall be incorporated into the overall open space plan for the
project.
E. LIGHTING
1. Residential
Intent- To permit reasonable use of attractive outdoor lighting for nighttime safety,
utility, security, and enjoyment while preserving the ambiance of the night; reduce
degradation of the nighttime visual environment and the night sky; minimize light
encroachment and glare by shielding and limiting outdoor lighting that is misdirected,
excessive, or obtrusive; and to conserve energy and resources to the greatest extent
possible.
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Required Standards
• Street light poles shall comply with the standard street light pole as identified in
this document. Any proposed alternative must be of equal quality or style. All
fixtures will be approved by the Planning Commission.
• Residential street lights shall not exceed 12 feet in height.
• Street lights shall be shielded from the sky (full-cutoff). Lighting styles for street
lights shall be of one of the following approved styles:
(a) Arlington Style or equivalent
(b) Clearwater style or equivalent
(c) Traditionaire style or equivalent
(d) Other styles as approved by the Planning Commission
Arlington Clearwater Traditionaire
Light style names are taken from the local electric provider’s pole types.
• All residential lighting shall be of a style compatible and consistent with the
architectural style and historic context of the structure or development.
• Building-mounted lights shall be shielded from the sky (full cut-off) and installed
below the eave line and no higher than 14 feet unless used to illuminate a second
story entry, eave, balcony, or outside stairway or door where in such case it
should be no higher than 8 feet above the floor elevation of the second story.
• Residential pole mounted (other than street lights) or wall-mounted fixtures shall
be shielded from the sky (full cut-off) limited to 8 feet in height above finished
grade.
• All building mounted lighting (other than those exempted in item 5) shall be
glare-free and shielded from the sky (full cut-off) and adjacent residential
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properties and structures, either through exterior shields or through optics within
the fixture.
• Historical character lighting (pole or building mounted) fixture less than 1000
lumens (60w incandescent) are exempted from the requirement to shield light
from the adjacent properties.
• Lighting levels and design shall comply with Illuminating Engineering Society of
North America’s Recommended Practices and Design Guidelines, latest edition
and/or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and as necessary for
safety.
Encouraged Standards
• Use lowest lamp wattage and lumen level possible.
• Light fixtures with motion sensors or automatic cutoff controls are encouraged to
minimize the duration of nighttime lighting.
• Light fixtures with soft yellow or orange lights instead of harsh white lights are
encouraged to protect the view of the night sky.
• Dark Sky Shades and Dark Sky Shields are encouraged for old existing fixtures to
protect the view of the night sky, minimize ground reflection and reduce light
trespass beyond the property line.
• Use IDA (International Dark-Sky Association) approved lighting fixtures.
2. Sports and Athletic Field Facilities in Residential Subdivisions
• The average and/or maximum light luminance, measured in foot-candles, shall not
exceed the recommended average or maximum guideline established for the
proposed recreational use by the Illuminating Engineering Society. The Town
may, as part of the special exception process, restrict lighting to a level less than
the Illuminating Engineering recommended guideline.
• The maximum height of outdoor lighting for courts (basketball, volleyball,
handball, horseshoe, etc.) shall not exceed twenty-five (25’) feet as measured
from finished grade.
• Lighting for night play for baseball, football or soccer facilities shall not be higher
than 100 feet above finished grade; however, for any lighting above 80 feet above
finished grade, the applicant shall demonstrate that the additional height is
necessary to reduce spill and glare.
• Lighting shall be directed to areas within the property line to minimize glare in
surrounding areas. Spillover and glare shall be minimized by using fixture cutoffs
and optically controlled luminaries at the boundary of lighted areas.
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• Lights shall be extinguished not later than (1) hour after the end of an event.
3. Prohibited
• Flashing lights – Any lights that flash, move, revolve, rotate, scintillate, blink,
vary in intensity or color, or use intermittent electrical pulsation.
• Upward lighting is prohibited unless it is for flag displaying purposes or
landscaping.
• The following lighting fixtures are prohibited in all new or re-development
projects:
(a) Cobra style fixtures
(b) Open bottom fixtures
(c) Flood light fixtures
(d) Mongoose fixtures
(e) Other non-fully shielded fixtures
Cobra Style Open Bottom Style Mongoose Style
• Colored lighting unless specifically approved by the Planning Commission.
4. Exempt
• The following lighting is exempt from lighting standards:
(a) Holiday decorations
(b) Construction or emergency lighting
(c) Additional lighting needed for highway safety, and state approved traffic
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control devices
(d) Industrial lighting shall be exempt from these standards; however,
illumination from lighting on site shall not traverse or leave the site.
Note: All lighting shall follow the guidelines as amended by the IESNA – Illuminating
Engineering Society of North America and/or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI)
and as necessary for safety.
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CHAPTER 3 CONTENTS ___ ___________ _________
3. MULTI-FAMILY RESIDENTIAL DESIGN……………… Page 31
A.) Structures
1. Front Yard and Building Entrance
2. Roof Line Expression
3. Architectural Features
B.) Open Space/Recreation
1. Common Areas
2. Individual Outdoor Space
C.) Multi-Family Services
1. Mailbox Locations
2. Bus Drop Off/Pick Up
3. Screening of Trash and Service Areas
D.) Utilities
E.) Lighting
1. Residential
2. Sports and Athletic Field Facilities
3. Prohibited
4. Exempt
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3. MULTI-FAMILY DESIGN _
All multi-family structures will be subject to the Residential Development Design Standards as
well as the standards listed below.
A. STRUCTURES
1. Front Yard and Building Entrance
Intent-To provide separation between buildings and the public pedestrian realm where
the front yard functions as a usable outdoor space and provides a clear, welcoming, and
safe entry for pedestrians from the sidewalk to the building.
Required Standards
• When there are common entries, they shall be clearly identifiable and visible from
the street with well-defined walkways from pedestrian routes to building entries.
• All structures shall have visible address number on the structure facing the
parking area or street with the ability to be seen during all hours of the day
(reflective material or illumination as determined by the Planning Commission).
• Front yards shall include an entrance sequence between the sidewalk and the
building including elements, such as trellises, site furnishings, low hedges,
landscaped borders, or special paving.
• Pedestrian scale lighting shall be provided to create conditions of personal
security.
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• Primary building entrances shall face the street or as determined by the Planning
Commission.
Encouraged Guidelines
• All landscape areas should include a wide range of plant materials including
perennials and flowering shrubs. A minimum of 40% plant material should
provide seasonal color or interest.
• Landscape planting should consider the use of native shrubs and groundcovers.
• Accent lighting should be used to highlight special focal points, building/site
entrances, public art and special landscape features.
2. Roof Line Expression
Intent-To ensure that rooflines present a distinct profile and appearance for the building
and express the neighborhood character.
Required Standards
• Structures shall incorporate pitched roof forms having a slope minimum of 6:12.
• Roof mounted mechanical equipment located on the exterior of the roof shall be
located within wells or pockets to preserve the visible rooflines. The mechanical
well floor would not be subject to the pitched roof requirement. However, in no
event shall such roof mounted equipment project above the building’s roof line.
All mechanical equipment and structures must be screened from view.
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3. Architectural Features
Intent-To ensure that all sides of a building have visual interest.
Required Standards
• All sides of the building visible from a street, public open space or alley shall be
given architectural treatment using four or more of the following:
(a) visible rooflines
(b) windows
(c) secondary entrances
(d) balconies
(e) architectural details
(f) awnings
(g) distinctive roof forms
(h) change in materials
(i) color differentiations
(j) recesses/offsets
(k) dormers
(l) gables
• Buildings shall include articulation along the facades facing and visible from
public rights of way.
Front
End
Rear
Rear
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Encouraged Guidelines
• Gables facing the street are encouraged.
• Windows should have visually prominent
trim.
• Other decorative window features are
encouraged, such as:
(a) arched windows
(b) mullions
(c) awnings
(d) flower boxes
(e) window shutters, sized appropriately and proportionately to the window
• A variety of window sizes and proportion shapes that contribute to overall
composition is also encouraged.
• Wing-roof porches to create roof line interest.
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B. OPEN SPACE
1. Common Areas
Intent-To provide a pedestrian friendly environment through the creation of a variety of
usable and interesting open spaces within multifamily developments. These spaces
should be centrally located for the development.
Required Standards
• Multi-family projects shall be sited to
maximize opportunities for creating usable,
well-integrated open space.
• Where provided, pedestrian spaces shall be
visible and accessible to residents.
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• Common outdoor spaces shall provide at least four of the following amenities to
accommodate a variety of ages and activities. The location and type of any such
amenities shall be approved by the Planning Commission. Amenities include:
(a) Site furnishings
(b) Picnic areas
(c) Patios or courtyards
(d) Gardens
(e) Open lawns with trees
(f) Play fields
(g) Special interest landscapes
(h) Pedestrian scale, bollard or other accent lightings
(i) Special pavings such as colored or stained concrete, stone, brick, or other
unit pavers
(j) Public art
(k) Water features
(l) Sports courts such as tennis, basketball, or volleyball
(m) Tot lot
(n) Play equipment
(o) Hardscape tables for card and board games
(p) Swimming pool
(q) Other options as determined and approved by the Planning Commission
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Encouraged Guidelines
• Outdoor seating opportunities such as
benches, seat walls, ledges, perches, boulders,
artwork, etc. should be provided near building
entries, along walkways, and other pedestrian
routes outside of parking areas.
• Garden elements, such as trellises, arbors,
hanging baskets, site furniture, and container
plantings are encouraged within open spaces,
along pedestrian circulation routes and to
define building and/or residential entrances.
• A minimum of 25% of the landscaped area
should be planted with trees and plants, other
than turf or lawn. Reforestation, buffering
and/or protection of existing woodlands may
satisfy this requirement.
• Perennials and/or annuals are encouraged to provide special interest and highlight
pedestrian areas such as building and/or site entrances, public open space, plazas
and major pedestrian routes.
2. Individual Outdoor Space
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Intent-To provide outdoor space that encourages a sense of ownership by residents.
Required Standards
• When present, individual outdoor spaces such as decks, terraces, and patios shall
be visually shielded from each other. Shielding may consist of walls, fences,
berms, hedges, and landscaping.
• Outdoor spaces used to meet these standards shall not be located within required
landscape buffers.
• Outdoor spaces shall not be located adjacent to dumpsters, service/utility
enclosures, loading/service areas, or other incompatible uses.
Encouraged Guidelines
• Where landscaped areas are provided, plant materials should be a mixture of
deciduous and evergreen varieties. A minimum of 20% plant varieties should
provide a variety of color, texture, aroma, and/or other special interest.
C. MULTI-FAMILY SERVICES
1. Mailbox Locations
Intent-To provide a safe and sheltered area for cluster mailbox service accommodating
multiple residents located within a multi-family development, if required by the U.S. Post
Office.
Required Standards
• Location of the cluster mailbox shall be centrally located to accommodate several
residents and built as determined by the local postmaster.
• A weather protected shelter/facility shall be built to allow the use of the facility to
pick up and drop off mail that is safe and provides pedestrian scale light.
• Pedestrian access to the mailbox location
shall be provided and clearly identified as a
safe and clear passage for pedestrians.
• The shelter/facility shall be built according
to the character of the neighborhood.
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2. Bus Drop Off/Pick Up Area
Intent-To provide a safe and sheltered area for bus services to include mass transit and
school bus service accommodating multiple residents located within a multi-family
development. All bus locations should be coordinated with Maryland Upper Shore
Transit and/or the County Board of Education.
Required Standards
• Twenty-five (25) dwelling units or more
are required to provide a bus drop
off/pick up area.
• Location of the bus service area shall be
centrally located. A designated parking
pull off from existing roadways to allow
traffic to continue to move in a safe
manner shall be provided.
• The parking area shall be next to a weather protected shelter/facility while
residents wait for the bus service.
• This facility shall be located in a safe and well lit area. The roadway network
shall be designed so that buses can maneuver easily and have clear view of bus
stops and pedestrian walkways.
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• The proposed facility shall also be built so the residents awaiting pick up can sit
and see the bus arriving.
• The shelter/facility shall be built according to the character of the neighborhood.
3. Screening of Trash and Service Areas
Intent-To provide a safe and clearly marked area for deliveries as well as trash service
pick-up. This area should be clear of vehicular traffic and high pedestrian volume to
enable delivery vehicles an area without any obstructions to perform such services. The
screening can reduce the impact of service, loading and trash storage areas.
Required Standards
• All service, loading and trash dumpster areas shall be screened by a combination
of masonry, wood, or vinyl walls and planting areas.
• Dumpsters shall be screened by walls and/or plantings on four sides and placed on
concrete pad.
• Loading areas shall be connected to the building or immediately adjacent to the
building which the loading area services.
• Shoulders or right of way areas shall not be used or designated as loading areas.
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D. UTILITIES
Intent-To ensure all utilities and equipment (heat, air, electric meters, vents, etc.)
are not visible from the street and/or parking lot level to ensure the character of
the community is preserved. Appropriate screening and/or landscaping may be
approved as determined by the Planning Commission
E. LIGHTING
Intent- To permit reasonable use of attractive outdoor lighting for nighttime safety,
utility, security, and enjoyment while preserving the ambiance of the night; reduce
degradation of the nighttime visual environment and the night sky; minimize light
encroachment and glare by shielding and limiting outdoor lighting that is misdirected,
excessive, or obtrusive; and to conserve energy and resources to the greatest extent
possible.
Required Standards
• Street light poles shall comply with the standard street light pole as identified in
this document. Any proposed alternative must be of equal quality or style. All
fixtures will be approved by the Planning Commission.
• Residential street lights shall not exceed 12 feet in height.
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• Street lights shall be shielded from the sky (full-cutoff). Lighting styles for street
lights shall be of one of the following approved styles:
(e) Arlington Style or equivalent
(f) Clearwater style or equivalent
(g) Traditionaire style or equivalent
(h) Other styles as approved by the Planning Commission
Arlington Clearwater Traditionaire
Light style names are taken from the local electric provider’s pole types.
• All residential lighting shall be of a style compatible and consistent with the
architectural style and historic context of the structure or development.
• Building-mounted lights shall be shielded from the sky (full cut-off) and installed
below the eave line and no higher than 14 feet unless used to illuminate a second
story entry, eave, balcony, or outside stairway or door where in such case it
should be no higher than 8 feet above the floor elevation of the second story.
• Residential pole mounted (other than street lights) or wall-mounted fixtures shall
be shielded from the sky (full cut-off) limited to 8 feet in height above finished
grade.
• All building mounted lighting (other than those exempted in item 5) shall be
glare-free and shielded from the sky (full cut-off) and adjacent residential
properties and structures, either through exterior shields or through optics within
the fixture.
• Historical character lighting (pole or building mounted) fixture less than 1000
lumens (60w incandescent) are exempted from the requirement to shield light
from the adjacent properties.
• Lighting levels and design shall comply with Illuminating Engineering Society of
North America’s Recommended Practices and Design Guidelines, latest edition
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and/or the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and as necessary for
safety.
Encouraged Standards
• Use lowest lamp wattage and lumen level possible.
• Light fixtures with motion sensors or automatic cutoff controls are encouraged to
minimize the duration of nighttime lighting.
• Light fixtures with soft yellow or orange lights instead of harsh white lights are
encouraged to protect the view of the night sky.
• Dark Sky Shades and Dark Sky Shields are encouraged for old existing fixtures to
protect the view of the night sky, minimize ground reflection and reduce light
trespass beyond the property line.
• Use IDA (International Dark-Sky Association) approved lighting fixtures.
2. Sports and Athletic Field Facilities in Residential Subdivisions
• The average and/or maximum light luminance, measured in foot-candles, shall not
exceed the recommended average or maximum guideline established for the
proposed recreational use by the Illuminating Engineering Society. The Town
may, as part of the special exception process, restrict lighting to a level less than
the Illuminating Engineering recommended guideline.
• The maximum height of outdoor lighting for courts (basketball, volleyball,
handball, horseshoe, etc.) shall not exceed twenty-five (25’) feet as measured
from finished grade.
• Lighting for night play for baseball, football or soccer facilities shall not be higher
than 100 feet above finished grade; however, for any lighting above 80 feet above
finished grade, the applicant shall demonstrate that the additional height is
necessary to reduce spill and glare.
• Lighting shall be directed to areas within the property line to minimize glare in
surrounding areas. Spillover and glare shall be minimized by using fixture cutoffs
and optically controlled luminaries at the boundary of lighted areas.
3. Prohibited
• Flashing lights – Any lights that flash, move, revolve, rotate, scintillate, blink,
vary in intensity or color, or use intermittent electrical pulsation, except
scoreboard.
• Upward lighting is prohibited unless it is for flag displaying purposes or
landscaping.
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• The following lighting fixtures are prohibited in all new or re-development
projects:
(f) Cobra style fixtures
(g) Open bottom fixtures
(h) Flood light fixtures
(i) Mongoose fixtures
(j) Other non-fully shielded fixtures
Cobra Style Open Bottom Style Mongoose Style
• Colored lighting unless specifically approved by the Planning Commission.
4. Exempt
• The following lighting is exempt from lighting standards:
(a) Holiday decorations
(b) Construction or emergency lighting
(c) Additional lighting needed for highway safety, and state approved traffic
control devices
(d) Industrial lighting shall be exempt from these standards; however,
illumination from lighting on site shall not traverse or leave the site.
Note: All lighting shall follow the guidelines as amended by the IESNA – Illuminating
Engineering Society of North America and/or American National Standards Institute and
as necessary for safety.
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CHAPTER 4 CONTENTS ___________ _
4. COMMERCIAL…………………………………………… Page 46
A.) Parking
1. Location of Parking Lot
2. Drive thru Businesses
3. Parking Lot Circulation
4. Parking Lot Landscaping
5. Parking Lot Screening
6. Pedestrian Walkways through Parking Lots
7. Mass Transit Bus Drop Off/Pick Up
B.) Sidewalk and Pedestrian
1. Connections
C.) Structures
1. Prominent Entrance
2. Massing
3. Ground Level Details
4. Screening Blank Walls
5. Plazas, Courtyards and Seating Areas
6. Site Furnishings
7. Orientation to Streets
8. Setbacks
9. Weather Protection
10. Roofline Expression
11. Concealing Rooftop Equipment
12. Expression
D.) Lighting
1. Height
2. Illumination
3. Design and Compatibility
4. Discouraged Lighting
5. Prohibited Lighting
6. Exempt Lighting
F.) Service Areas
1. Screening of Trash and Service Areas
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4. COMMERCIAL _
A. PARKING
1. Location of Parking Lot
Intent- To maintain a contiguous, active pedestrian realm along street fronts by locating
parking lots behind buildings.
In situations where there is one building on a property, the intention of the standard is to
require the parking relating to that building to be located primarily behind the building.
When one or more larger primary buildings are located in the interior of a property and
multiple satellite pads are located adjacent to the street frontages, the intent is to locate
the individual building pads close to the street frontage in a manner which breaks up the
appearance of the parking area bulk from the viewpoint of the adjacent street frontages.
When buildings and the open space adjacent to them are located near the property
frontage rather than being separated from the street frontage by parking areas, the need
for common space near the interior of the property is considered less essential.
Required Standards
• Commercial parking lots shall be located
behind buildings. Commercial parking lots
shall only be allowed to remain in front of
or beside buildings as permitted by the
Planning Commission.
• Parking lots shall provide a minimum 10
foot wide planting area between the
parking lot and street right-of-way to
include:
• a year-round sight barrier,
• evergreen shrubs,
• evergreen ground cover,
• shrub material maintained at
maximum height of 3 feet for
visibility and maintain year-round
color and interest.
2. Drive thru Businesses
Intent- To reduce the impact of car-oriented drive-thru businesses on pedestrian activity.
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Required Standards
• Drive-thru windows shall not be located between the building and major
roadways unless permitted by the Planning Commission.
• Drive through areas shall be separated from parking areas and provide safe access
to building entrances as approved by the Planning Commission.
3. Parking Lot Circulation
Intent- To provide safe and efficient vehicular and pedestrian circulation within parking
lots.
Required Standards
• Parking lots shall provide clear, logical, and well defined vehicular circulation
within and through the lot.
• Planting islands and curbing shall be used to clearly define and separate travel
lanes and parking areas.
• Pull in or back out parking spaces are prohibited on primary vehicular travel lanes
within parking lots with fifty (50) or more spaces.
• Parking spaces are prohibited in the vicinity of the driveway entrance and/or exit.
• Cross access easements shall be provided between commercial parcels to allow
for interconnection of parking areas.
• Provisions shall be made to connect to future development and planned or
existing adjacent parking lots by dedication of easements for future connections.
• Accommodation for loading and unloading shall be designed to provide adequate
space for efficient maneuvering into and out of loading position at properly
constructed docks located either within a building or in the yard on the same lot.
4. Parking Lot Landscaping
Intent- To reduce the visual impact of parking lots through landscaped areas and/or
architectural features that compliment the overall design and character of development.
(Also applicable to a storage lot, gas station aprons, and drive-thrus)
Required Standards
The number of trees required in the internal planting areas in parking lots shall be
dependant upon the location of the parking lot in relation to the building and public right-
of-way:
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• Where the parking lot is located between the
building and the public right-of-way, one tree
for every five spaces shall be provided (1:5).
• Where the parking lot is located to the side of
the building and partially abuts the public right-
of-way, one tree for every seven spaces shall be
provided.(1:7)
• Where the parking lot is located behind building
and is not visible from the public right-of-way,
one tree for every ten spaces shall be provided
(1:10).
• Internal Planting areas shall break up long rows
of parking, and to aid and facilitate vehicular
circulation through the parking lot.
• The Planning Commission may allow
extensively landscaped storm water facilities to
be counted towards the required landscaping.
5. Parking Lot Screening
Intent- To provide visually attractive screening of parking in development visible from
the public right-of-way, while providing visibility for surveillance.
(Also applicable to a storage lot, gas station aprons, and drive thrus)
Required Standards
• Parking lots that abut the public right-of-way shall be screened with one or a
combination of the following treatments:
o Low walls made of masonry, or other
similar permanently affixed materials,
and not exceeding a maximum height
of 3 feet.
o Raised planter walls planted with a
minimum 80% evergreen shrubs not to
exceed a total height of 3 feet,
including planter wall and landscape
planting.
o Landscape plantings consisting of trees of which at least 80% are deciduous.
Shrubs and groundcover materials of which at least 80% are evergreen.
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• Walls, fencing, and architectural details shall compliment the materials used in
adjacent architectural styles.
• Walls and raised planters shall not exceed a maximum height of 3 feet, unless a
screen treatment is provided that does not create a safety hazard.
• Where walls are provided, landscape planting areas shall be a minimum width of
5 feet and shall be located adjacent to the public right-of-way.
• Fencing around parking lots shall be in conformance with the existing Town
Code.
• All plant material used for parking lot screening shall be managed and/or selected
to provide clear views between 3 and 8 feet above the ground surface, for
surveillance purposes.
Prohibited Fencing
• Chain link fencing, with or without coating, shall not be used on any street
frontage, adjacent to a public sidewalk or adjacent to a residential designation.
6. Pedestrian Walkways through Parking Lots
Intent- To provide safe, convenient, and attractive walkways for pedestrians through
parking lots.
Required Standards
• For parking lots that contain greater than 50
parking spaces, pedestrian connections shall
be clearly defined in a combination of 2 or
more of the following ways:
o Special paving, such as colored concrete,
pavers etc. in an asphalt area.
o A continuous landscape area minimum 3 feet wide on at least one side of the
walkway (where walkways abut a public right-of-way and/or driving aisles,
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the landscape area shall be provided between the walkway and the public
right-of-way or driving aisle).
o Surfacing materials must be safe and conducive for navigation by strollers,
wheel chairs, walkers and carts.
• ADA compliant connections shall be provided from ADA parking stalls to the
main pedestrian walking routes and building entrances.
• Pedestrian walkways within parking areas shall be a minimum 5 foot width of
clear, unobstructed passage.
• Pedestrian walkways shall provide a distinct linkage between a main entrance to
the building and a concentration of vehicle parking spaces in order to encourage
its use by pedestrians.
• When buildings are not located directly adjacent to the sidewalk, pedestrian
walkways shall connect the public sidewalk in the right-of-way to the main
building entrance in a clear and direct manner, regardless of the number of
parking spaces.
• Where transit stops or pedestrian drop off sites occur in the public right-of-way (if
applicable), pedestrian walkways shall provide a direct and clear connection from
the building’s main entrance to the transit stop/pedestrian drop off site.
• Night lighting shall be provided where stairs, curbs, ramps, abrupt changes in
walk direction, and crossing vehicle lanes occur. Lighting must be ground-affixed
lighting only the area of concern.
• Pedestrian drop off areas shall be designated by signage or markings and not be
located near high volume travel lanes.
7. Mass Transit Bus Drop Off/Pick Up Area
Intent- To provide a safe and sheltered area for mass transit bus services, if the services
are available.
Required Standards
• Complexes totaling 100,000 square feet or more are
required to provide a mass transit bus drop off/pick
up area.
• Location of the bus service area shall be centrally
located. A designated parking pull off from
existing roadways to allow traffic to continue to
move in a safe manner shall be provided.
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• The parking area shall be next to a weather protected shelter/facility while
customers wait for the bus service.
• This facility shall be located in a safe and well lit area. The roadway network
shall be designed so that buses can maneuver easily and have clear view of bus
stops and pedestrian walkways.
• The proposed facility shall also be built so the customers awaiting pick up can sit
and see the bus arriving.
B. SIDEWALK AND PEDESTRIAN
1. Connections
Intent- To improve the pedestrian environment by making it easier, safer, and more
comfortable to walk among businesses, to the street sidewalk, to transit stops, and to
adjacent properties by providing sidewalks and general connections. Creating a network
of safe, convenient, and attractive internal linkages for pedestrians between retail and
mixed use developments while maintaining consistent street frontage and character for
street right-of-ways.
Required Standards
• Sidewalks shall be provided along all street frontages with appropriate
connections to adjacent parcels and developments
• All sidewalks must be installed using the requirements and specifications as
determined by the State Highway Administration (SHA).
• Any site work planned within State Roadways shall obtain approvals from the
State Highway Administration (SHA).
• Any new development or redevelopment shall provide for pedestrian connections
between all internal commercial and residential uses.
• Provisions shall be made to connect to future development and planned or
existing sidewalks or pedestrian trails by dedication of easements for future
connections.
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• Crosswalks shall be required to create a visual and tactile connection between
barrier free access curb ramps for the purpose of demarcation of appropriate
pedestrian street-crossing locations in the following instances:
o At points of intersection between local residential streets or State
maintained streets.
o At all signalized intersections adjoining the development site.
o At key locations to provide safe street
crossing access to active or passive
parkland and open space areas, schools,
playgrounds, neighborhood shopping
centers and similar pedestrian
destinations within and adjoining the
development
o The locations and criteria for curb ramps
must meet SHA design and construction
standards and the ADA Accessibility
Guidelines for Buildings and Facilities
(ADAAG) which gives requirements
under the Americans with Disabilities
Act (ADA) of 1990.
• Sidewalks and trails shall be integrated with overall landscaping design.
• Pedestrian connections shall be clearly defined in a combination of 2 or more of
the following ways: a trellis, special railing, bollards, and/or other architectural
features to accent the walkway at key points.
• Continuous landscape areas shall be a minimum of 3 feet wide on at least one side
of the walkway, except as walkways cross vehicular travel lanes (where walkways
abut a public right of-way and/or driving aisles, the landscape area shall be
provided between the walkway and the public right-of way driving aisle).
• Pedestrian connections shall be reinforced with pedestrian scale lighting, bollard
lighting, accent lighting or a combination thereof to aid in pedestrian way-finding.
• Pedestrian walkways shall include clear sight lines to building entrances and
should not be less than 5 feet wide.
Encouraged Guidelines
• Existing informal paths or trails should be recognized and improved to ensure
connection to and through sites, and access to parks and open spaces.
• Plant materials in pedestrian landscape areas should consist of a mixture of
evergreen and deciduous trees and shrubs. A minimum of 20% of plant varieties
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should provide year-round color, texture and/or other special interest. Shrubs
should be maintained at a maximum 3 foot height for visibility. Ground covers
should be evergreen varieties.
C. STRUCTURES
1. Prominent Entrance
Intent- To ensure that building entrances are welcoming and easily identifiable from
streets and sidewalks.
Required Standards
• Visual prominence - the principal entry to the building shall be marked by at least
one element from each of the following groups or any other combination of
elements as approved by the Planning Commission:
Group A Group B Group C
(a) recess (a) clerestory (a) stone, masonry or tile paving in entry
(b) o verhang (b) ornamental (b) ornamental building name or address
(c) canopy lighting fixtures (c) pots or planters with flowers
(d) portico (c) large entry (d) seating
(e) porch door(s)
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• No permanent or non-permanent element that is attached to the principle building
shall project or extend over the walkway with the exception of standards for
inclement weather protection.
2. Massing
Intent- To reduce the apparent bulk of multi-story buildings and single-story buildings 15
feet or more in height, and maintain town pedestrian scale by providing a sense of “base,”
“middle,” and “top.”
Required Standards
• Buildings shall have a distinct “base” at the ground level using articulation and
materials, such as stone, masonry, or decorative concrete. Distinction may also
occur through the following:
(a) windows
(b) architectural details
(c) canopies
(d) overhangs
(e) masonry strips and cornice lines
• The “top” of the building shall emphasize a distinct profile or outline with
elements such as a projecting parapet, cornice, upper level step back, or pitched
roofline.
Encouraged Guidelines
• The “middle” of the building should be made distinct by change in material or
color, windows, balconies, step backs, and signage.
3. Ground Level Details
Intent- To reinforce the character of the streetscape by encouraging the greatest amount
of visual interest along the ground level of buildings facing pedestrian streets.
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Required Standards
• Ground-floor, street-facing facades of commercial and mixed use buildings shall
incorporate at least five of the following elements:
(a) Medallions
(b) Belt courses
(c) Plinths or columns
(d) Kickplate for storefront window
(e) Projecting sills
(f) Tilework
(g) Pedestrian scale sign(s) or sign(s) professionally painted on windows
(h) Planter box
(i) Front porches or stoops
(j) Water table line
(k) Decorative panels
(l) Any element not listed here that meets the intent, as approved by the
Planning Commission
• Building facades not facing a street shall incorporate at least three of the above
mentioned items.
4. Screening Blank Walls
Intent-To ensure that buildings do not display blank, unattractive walls visible from the
street or public areas, including parking lots.
Required Standards
• Structures greater than 30 or more feet in
length facing streets or public areas
including parking lots where windows are
not provided shall have architectural
treatment. At least four of the following
elements shall be incorporated the facade:
(a) masonry (but not flat concrete block)
(b) concrete or masonry plinth at the base of the wall
(c) belt courses of a different texture and color
(d) projecting cornice
(e) projecting canopy
(f) medallions
(g) trellis containing planting
(h) decorative woodwork or tile
work
(i) opaque or translucent glass
(j) artwork
(k) vertical articulation
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(l) lighting fixtures
(m) recesses
(n) window walls
(o) an architectural element not listed above that meets the intent, as approved
by the Planning Commission.
5. Plazas, Courtyards, and Seating Areas
Intent- To reinforce and encourage the pedestrian nature of Centreville by providing
usable common space.
Required Standards
• Common spaces shall be visible and/or accessible to the public.
• Plazas, courtyards and other pedestrian spaces shall include at least three of the
following:
(a) special interest planting with a wide range of plant materials including
perennials and flowering shrubs. Approximately 65% plant material used
shall provide seasonal flower and/or foliage color.
(b) pedestrian scale, bollard, or other accent lighting
(c) special paving, such as colored/stained concrete, brick or other unit pavers.
The use of low impact development materials, if appropriate to the site
conditions, is encouraged.
(d) seating, such as benches, tables, or low seating walls
(e) water feature, such as a fountain, etc.
(f) decorative trash receptacle
(g) bicycle racks
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6. Site Furnishings
Intent- To create a more pedestrian friendly street frontage through the use of permanent
site furnishings at main pedestrian walkways, building entrances and other pedestrian
areas as approved for the proposed development.
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Required Standards
• Permanent site furnishings, such as benches, tables and other pedestrian amenities
shall be made of durable, weather-resistant and vandal-resistant materials.
• Permanent site furnishings shall be consistent with the overall character and
appearance of the development.
Prohibited
• Site furnishings shall not block pedestrian access to main walkways, open space
areas and/or building entrances, bus or pedestrian loading, or drop off areas.
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Encouraged Guidelines
• Permanent site furnishings, such as benches, tables, bike racks and other
pedestrian amenities, are encouraged to be provided at main pedestrian walkways,
building entrances, plazas, open spaces and other pedestrian areas.
7. Orientation to Streets
Intent- To ensure that buildings add to the liveliness of streets and the overall community
character.
Required Standards
• Buildings, along with trees and landscaping shall be predominant rather than
parking lots and free-standing signs.
• Pedestrian access to the building shall be visually and functionally clear and
should offer a convenient alternative to walking through driveway entrances and
exits.
Encouraged Guidelines
• People traveling along the main roadways should be able to see storefronts,
windows, merchandise, and other aspects of business activity.
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8. Setbacks
Intent- To ensure the visibility of retail businesses and establish active lively uses within
close proximity to the sidewalk.
Encouraged Guidelines
• Portions of buildings should be set as close as possible to the sidewalk or property
line, which can be accomplished in various ways. For instance, major portions of
single buildings should abut the sidewalk. In multi-building developments, one or
more buildings should be set to the sidewalk.
• The requirement for Common Space will be waived in the instance where a
development locates its parking area behind the building and locates the building
as close as is practical to the sidewalk and street frontage.
9. Weather Protection
Intent- To provide weather protection for pedestrians.
Required Standards
• Overhead protection providing
shelter from inclement weather
at the main building entrance
shall be required. Any method
used to provide said protection
shall be combined with the
method used to achieve visual
prominence.
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• Where buildings are adjacent to a sidewalk,
weather protection shall be provided. The
minimum depth of any weather protection
must be 5 feet unless limited by the building
code. The vertical dimension between the
underside of weather protection and the
sidewalk must be at least 8 feet and no more
than 12 feet.
10. Roofline Expression
Intent- To ensure that rooflines present a distinct profile and appearance for the building
and express the neighborhood character.
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Required Standards
• Commercial buildings shall be designed to promote a pedestrian scale.. To attain
the continuation of a pedestrian scale, the use of sloping elements shall be
required. Any alternative roofline not utilizing sloping elements must be approved
by the Planning Commission.
11. Concealing Rooftop Equipment
Intent- To screen view of rooftop mechanical and
communications equipment where visible from the
street level.
Required Standards
• Mechanical equipment shall be screened from
public areas by extended parapet walls or other
roof forms that are integrated with the
architecture of the building.
• Communication equipment shall be blended in
with the design of the roofs, rather than being
merely attached to the roof deck.
• Due to the nature and need for exposure of solar panels it may be difficult to
conceal solar panel equipment. Should it not be possible to conceal the panel
equipment, the location and placement of such equipment must be approved by
the Planning Commission.
Prohibited
• Painting mechanical equipment and erecting fences are not acceptable methods of
screening.
12. Expression at Entrances to Large Commercial Developments
Intent-To provide a reference point at the
end of a block of facades or to mark
intersections or entrances to developments
larger than 5 acres by providing visual
interest at their entrance to the street. These
expressions should be consistent with the
character of the Town and not appear as a
“gated community” separate from the Town.
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Encouraged Guidelines
• Developments at intersections should emphasize this unique aspect with two or
more of the following methods:
(a) placement of the primary entry
(b) articulation
(c) towers
(d) plazas
(e) distinctive roof forms
(f) other architectural features
(g) landscaping
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• All entrance signs will be subject to approval by the Planning Commission.
D. LIGHTING
1. Height
Intent- To permit reasonable use of attractive outdoor lighting for nighttime safety,
utility, security, and enjoyment while preserving the ambiance of the night; reduce
degradation of the nighttime visual environment and the night sky; minimize light
encroachment and glare by shielding and limiting outdoor lighting that is misdirected,
excessive, or obtrusive; and to conserve energy and resources to the greatest extent
possible.
Exterior lighting shall serve as a security measure and increase general visibility. The
lighting of buildings, landscaping, driveways, signs and other exterior uses of lighting
shall be designed to minimize the light and glare on adjacent neighborhoods and
roadways. Lighting along the main roadways should be geared to pedestrians, to
encourage main street activity into the evening hours.
Required Standards
• Pole-mounted fixtures in vehicular use or pedestrian areas shall not exceed a
mounting height of 12 feet, and such poles shall be located so as not to be a
hazard in the path of travel for pedestrian or vehicular access.
• All lighting shall be glare free and shielded from the sky (full cut-off) and
adjacent residential properties and structures, either through exterior shields or
through optics within the fixture.
• Safety lighting shall be provided at building entrance and doors sufficient to
illuminate the doorway.
• Outdoor lighting may exceed 12 feet in height if it meets one or more of the
following criteria:
o Building mounted lighting directed back at a sign or building facade; or
lighting on above-grade decks or balconies which shall be fully shielded.
o Additional lighting needed for highway or intersection safety as required
by State Highway Administration.
o Approved by the Planning Commission.
o Lighting levels shall not exceed minimums established by the IESNA
Recommended Practices and Design Guidelines Latest Edition edition and/or the
American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and as necessary for safety.
Encouraged Standards
• Use lowest lamp wattage and lumen level possible.
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• Light fixtures with motion sensors or automatic cutoff controls are encouraged to
minimize the duration of nighttime lighting.
• Light fixtures with soft yellow or orange lights instead of harsh white lights are
encouraged to protect the view of the night sky.
• Dark Sky Shades and Dark Sky Shields are encouraged for old existing fixtures to
protect the view of the night sky, minimize ground reflection and reduce light
trespass beyond the property line.
• Use IDA (International Dark-Sky Association) approved lighting fixtures.
2. Illumination
Intent- To maintain a safe, secure, and attractive environment using adequate and
attractive, and functional lighting.
Required Standards
• All lighting shall be glare-free and shielded from the sky and adjacent residential
properties and structures, either through exterior shields or through optics within
the fixture.
• Lighting shall not be used to attract attention to a business, but to provide
reasonable levels of lighting for safety and identification.
• Lighting levels shall comply with Illuminating Engineering Society of North
America’s Recommended Practices and Design Guidelines latest edition and/or
the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) and as necessary for safety.
• Safety lighting shall be provided at building entrance and doors sufficient to
illuminate the doorway.
3. Design and Compatibility
Intent- The design of exterior lighting fixtures shall enhance and complement the
character of a specific building or space, and must reflect the traditional elements of
Centreville.
Required Standards
• Lighting styles of both poles and fixtures shall be of a style compatible with the
design and architectural style of the buildings and facilities illuminated. Lighting
fixtures shall be appropriate for the type of development proposed.
• Pedestrian scale lighting shall also be accomplished with fixtures that are
mounted on buildings or located to accent architectural or landscape features.
Such fixtures shall be designed to enhance the overall architecture of the building,
provide lighting for pedestrians and not damage historic materials.
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4. Discouraged Lighting
• The use of up-lighting should be avoided to minimize light pollution of the night
sky and to prevent light trespassing onto adjacent properties.
5. Prohibited Lighting
• Flashing lights – Any lights that flash, move, revolve, rotate, scintillate, blink,
vary in intensity or color, or use intermittent electrical pulsation.
• Outdoor string of lights, including but not limited to those outlining lot lines, or
outdoor display or sales lots as approved by the Planning Commission.
• Luminous colored tube lighting.
• The following lighting fixtures are prohibited in all new or re-development
projects:
o Cobra style fixtures
o Open bottom fixtures
o Mongoose fixtures
o Other non-fully shielded fixtures
Cobra Style Open Bottom Style Mongoose Style
• Colored lighting unless specifically approved by the Planning Commission.
6. Exempt Lighting
• The following lighting is exempt from lighting standards:
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(a) Holiday decorations
(b) Construction or emergency lighting
(c) Additional lighting needed for highway safety, and state approved traffic
control devices
(d) Industrial lighting shall be exempt from these standards; however,
illumination from lighting on site shall not traverse or leave the site.
Note: All lighting shall follow the guidelines as amended by the IESNA-Illuminating
Engineering Society of North America and/or the American National Standards Institute
(ANSI) and as necessary for safety.
E. SERVICES AREAS
1. Screening of Trash and Service Areas
Intent-To provide a safe and clearly marked area for deliveries as well as trash service
pick-up. This area should be clear of vehicular traffic and high pedestrian volume to
enable delivery vehicles an area without any obstructions to perform such services.
Reduce the impact of service, loading and trash storage areas.
Required Standards
• All service, loading and trash dumpsters areas shall be screened by a combination
of masonry, wood, or vinyl walls and planting areas.
• Dumpsters shall be screened by walls, fences, gates and plantings and placed on
concrete pad.
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• Loading and service areas shall not face any residential district, unless no other
location is possible as deemed by the Planning Commission.
• Loading areas shall be connected to the building or immediately adjacent to the
building which the loading area services.
Shoulders or right of way areas shall not be used or designated as loading areas.
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CHAPTER 5 CONTENTS__________ ____
5. SIGNAGE…………….……………………………………… Page 71
A.) Signage
1. Definitions
2. General Provisions
3. Calculating Sign Area
4. General Sign Construction and Materials
5. Integration with Site/Building Design
6. Prohibited
B.) Design Standards for Permitted Signs
1. Awning Signs
2. Directional Signs (Instructional)
3. Freestanding Signs
4. Monument Signs
5. Ground Signs
6. Projection Signs
7. Wall Mounted Signs
8. Window Signs
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5. SIGNAGE ________ _
A. SIGNAGE
Intent-The purpose and intent of this Section is to assure that signage is aesthetically
pleasing while allowing the property owner to display the business as well as the
preserving the small Town character of Centreville. The Town Zoning Code will state
the requirements regarding permitted signs, off-premise signage and allowable
dimensions.
1. Definitions
Awning Sign - Sign that is part of or attached to an awning, canopy, or other protective
cover over a door, window or entrance.
Banner - A sign intended to be hung with or without frames, possessing characters,
letters, illustrations or ornamentations applied to paper, plastic, or fabric of any kind.
National flags, flags of political subdivision, and other such flags shall not be considered
banners.
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Bulletin Board- A changeable copy sign, which identifies and announces schedules for
churches, schools, or other noncommercial uses or activities.
Directional Sign - A sign, located on premise, directing traffic movement onto or within
the premise, including signs marking entrances and exits, parking areas, loading zones, or
circulation direction.
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Free-Standing Sign- A self-supporting sign resting on or supported by two or more
supporting elements or any other type of base on the ground (ground and monument).
Ground Sign - A sign suspended or supported by one or more uprights or braces
anchored in the ground with no more than 30 inches clearance from the bottom of the
sign to the ground below. Single support elements must be at least 50% of the width of
the sign.
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Hanging Sign- A sign parallel to the façade which hangs from the underside of the roof
of a porch or covered walkway.
Incidental Sign- A sign whose main purpose is to direct or inform the reader, but not to
identify or advertise the primary business, organization, institution, product or service
located on the premise. Examples include signs indicating hours of business, entrance,
exit, vacancy, office, menus, carry-out window, open house, garage sale, and yard sale.
Incidental signs are removed daily.
Monument Sign - A free-standing sign which rests directly on the ground and not on a
pole.
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Projection Sign - A sign, perpendicular to the façade other than a wall sign, which
projects from a structure or building face. An example includes an awning sign.
Roof Sign - A sign located or erected on or attached to a roof and which extends above
the ridge or peak of the roof. Also included is any sign which receives partial or total
support from a roof by means of girders, wires, etc., attached to, located or erected on a
roof. Roof Signs are prohibited.
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Wall Sign - A sign painted on or affixed to and mounted parallel to a building facade or
wall in such a manner that the facade or wall becomes the supporting structure for the
sign.
Window Sign - A sign installed on the inside or outside of a window, which is visible
from the sidewalk or street.
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2. General Provisions
Intent-To assure that signage is consistent with the architectural features of the buildings
on which it is placed allowing the merchant and property owners with a way to
effectively communicate without creating sign clutter.
Required Standards
• Only signs specifically permitted in these standards are allowed, and all signs
shall comply with these provisions.
• All permitted signs shall be subject to the following regulations:
o Signs shall not cover significant architectural detail.
o Signs shall be treated as an architectural element of a building or project
and shall be designed to be compatible and complimentary.
o Signs shall not project above the roof, parapet, or exterior wall.
• Elements of the sign shall create an overall cohesive design, reflect simplicity,
avoid visual clutter and ensure legibility. Each sign shall:
o Be consolidated into a minimum
number of elements, whether
words, symbols, or graphics,
o Have appropriate contrast,
o Be designed with a limited
number of, and harmonious use
of, colors,
o Be constructed with a minimum
number of materials.
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• The message shall be easy to read from the intended vantage point - public street,
public sidewalk, or public parking lot - but not be out of scale with the building,
site or streetscape.
Encouraged Guidelines
• Signs should be of a coordinated color scheme
and materials which reflect the architectural style
of the buildings, commercial complex or product
service.
• Signage should be on a pedestrian scale and
visible by pedestrian at grade/sidewalk level.
• Projecting signs, supported by ornamental
brackets and oriented to pedestrians and passing
vehicles are strongly encouraged.
3. Calculating Sign Area
Intent-To assure that the individual signs placed directly on buildings be designed to be
compatible with and complement the appearance of the building and that the size and
shape of the sign shall be in proportion to the space the sign is to occupy.
The calculation of sign area shall conform to the requirements of Chapter 170 of the
Centreville Code.
4. General Sign Construction and Materials
Intent-To ensure the signs is of quality construction and material as well as incorporates
good overall design.
Required Standards
• All signs shall be framed, constructed, and erected so as to compliment the overall
appearance of the building and site as well as the overall appearance of the sign.
• Sign Graphics. A sign’s graphic elements shall be executed in a professional
manner.
• General Sign Construction
o All signs shall be constructed, and erected in a professional and
workmanlike manner.
o Signs shall be structurally sound, maintained and located to pose no threat
to pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
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• Materials
o Signs shall be fabricated on and of materials that are of permanent quality,
good durability and are complimentary to the building to which they
relate.
o Materials used shall be those that weather well and reduce maintenance.
• Framing and Supports.
o Visible frames or supports for freestanding or projecting signs shall be:
▪ In scale with the size and character of the building;
▪ Designed either as a key element of the sign or minimized so as
not to detract from the sign.
o All signs attached to buildings shall be attached in a manner that preserves
the historic integrity of the building.
Encouraged Guidelines
• Signs should have a matte finish, not have a glossy or reflective finish.
5. Integration with Site/Building Design
Intent-To ensure that exterior signage is part of the overall design approach to a project.
Required Standards
• Signs shall be treated as an architectural element of a building or project and shall
be designed to be compatible and complimentary.
• The design of buildings and sites shall identify
locations and sizes for future signs. Multi-tenant
buildings and those which could be multi-tenant
buildings must submit a sign plan depicting the
method of signage and area allowances. Revisions
in the sign plan may be submitted for Planning
Commission approval by the management/owner
of a building. A part of each sign permit request
shall be an explanation of how the sign complies with the sign plan which shall
include the building management approval of the proposed sign. As tenants install
signs, it is expected that such signs shall be in conformance with an overall sign
plan that allows for advertising which fits with the architectural character,
proportions, and details of the development.
• All signs shall be reviewed for their impact on the overall building facade.
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• The sign and associated lighting fixtures shall
complement the architecture of the building on or
near which it is placed and should be placed in an
appropriate location on the building facade.
• If the building design or architecture does not clearly identify the appropriate
placement for a sign panel then individual letters are encouraged unless there is a
clear location for adding sign panels, such as establishing one or more repetitive,
common architectural features in order to create a repetitive sequence
• Whenever a new or renovated sign is proposed for an existing building:
o It may be determined that building
alterations are needed in order for the
proposed sign to be properly placed on
the building facade.
o Any inappropriate and extraneous
elements from past previous signage
shall be removed prior to the installation
of the proposed sign to improve the
clarity and design of the proposed sign
and restore the intended character of the
building.
Encouraged Guidelines
• A sign should be confined within the facade consistent with signs on adjacent
buildings and shall not extend beyond the identified signable area on the building
or over the edges of the sign panel.
• In multi-occupant buildings, signs for first floor occupants should not extend
above the window sill of the second.
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• Colors of the sign and the sign background should be compatible with the
building’s colors.
6. Prohibited
• Including, but not limited to: portable signs, inflatable signs, kites or other
unattended flying device which are meant to advertise or identify a specific
business, product, or event.
• Temporary or portable signs with changeable letters and numbers and portable
trailer signs with changeable text panels, unless otherwise permitted.
• Digital electronic signs of any kind, except for governmental and institutional
uses in non-residential zoning districts and public school uses in residential
zoning districts and subject to operational and other supplemental standards as
contained in the Zoning Ordinance.
• Revolving signs
• Pole mounted signs
• Roof signs
B. DESIGN STANDARDS FOR PERMITTED SIGNS
Intent-To ensure that exterior signage is part of the overall design approach to a project
and must not exceed the allowable size of the applicable zoning regulations.
1. Awning Signs
• Any portion of an awning containing advertising copy shall be treated as a wall or
building sign and shall be included in the overall area calculations for such signs.
Squared off, text only, symbols or graphics.
• Signs may be attached flat against awnings made of rigid materials, and shall not
project above the awning. Awnings of non-rigid materials (e.g. canvas) shall have
signs only appliquéd or painted on them.
• There shall be a minimum clearance of at least eight (8) feet between the bottom of
the awning and the ground at grade.
• One awning sign, the size of which shall not exceed twenty-five (25) percent of the
area of the awning. The location of the sign shall not exceed the limits of the awning.
2. Directional Signs (Instructional)
Directory signs may be provided to identify individual businesses or occupants of the
same building or building complex, in accordance with the following:
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• The display board shall be of an integrated and uniform design.
• No more than one sign panel not to exceed two (2) square feet in area is permitted per
directional sign.
• Directional signs shall be placed in one or more
groups nearest the pedestrian entrances adjacent to
the building complex only, and may be wall-mounted
or freestanding signs. Such signs shall not exceed
three (3) feet in height.
• Directional signs shall not contain advertising copy.
• The directional sign shall not be placed in areas that
would obstruct motorists’ vision of traffic.
3. Freestanding Signs
• All new or replacement freestanding signs shall be as defined herein. Such signs shall
be consistent with the architectural character of the site and building, incorporating at
least one of the primary materials, colors, or design elements of the associated
structure(s).
• The top of the sign shall not be more than fifteen (15) feet in height above ground
level and shall not exceed the height of the first floor.
• Berming shall not be used to exceed the maximum
allowable height of signs.
• The base or support elements of freestanding signs
should be integrated with the surrounding
environment. Landscaping may be required to buffer
such signs.
• Freestanding signs should be sited so that they
integrate with the location of street trees and other
site landscaping,
• Freestanding signs shall not be placed where they
obscure adjacent signs and important architectural
features such as entrances, display windows, or
decorative elements when viewed from the public
right-of-way.
• Freestanding signs must be designed to relate to and share common design elements
with the building and the sign(s) attached to the building, including multi-occupant
buildings.
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• A freestanding sign that provides a directory of occupants for a multi-occupant
building should have simplicity of design to compensate for the additional amount of
information provided.
• Approved year-round landscaping shall be used around the base of the sign to screen
lighting fixtures and utility sources in compliance with the Landscaping and Parking
lot design sections of this document.
4. Monument Signs
• Monument signs shall be designed with consistent design elements, such as a base
material, height, and lettering style, to create a visual continuity and quality to
development. Monument sign bases and/or signs shall utilize one of the following
complementary materials or elements as a primary feature to create visual continuity
throughout the Town:
• Sandstone or similar type of stone;
• River cobblestone;
• Brick;
• Color tinted and textured concrete masonry;
• Metal or iron detailing;
• Other materials of similar high-quality as utilized on the primary structures.
• Or other material as approved by the Planning Commission.
Monument-type signs shall be attached to the ground with a base whose width and
length are at least as large as the bottom edge of the sign face.
• The top of the sign shall not be more than fifteen (15) feet in height above ground
level and shall not exceed the height of the first floor.
• Approved year-round landscaping shall be used around the base of the sign to
screen lighting fixtures and utility sources in compliance with the Landscaping
and Parking lot design sections of this document.
5. Ground Signs
• The design and placement of ground signs and associated lighting fixtures shall
complement the overall visual appearance of the site.
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• Approved year-round landscaping shall be used around the base of the sign to screen
lighting fixtures and utility sources in compliance with the Landscaping and Parking
lot design sections of this document.
6. Projection Signs
• Projecting and suspended signs shall be treated as
building signs and shall be included in the overall
area calculations for building signs.
• The two sides of a projecting or suspended sign shall
be parallel back to back, and shall not exceed six (6)
inches in thickness, and ten (10) square feet in area.
• A projecting sign shall be hung at right angles to the
building and shall not extend more than thirty (30)
inches from a building wall.
• Projecting or suspended signs shall have a minimum clearance of eight (8) feet above
grade and shall not project into a vehicular or public way.
• The top of the sign, if suspended, should be in line with whichever is the most
successful application of scale, linear continuity or visibility as determined by the
Planning Commission.
• The maximum height of any projecting sign may not exceed the height of the building
to which it is attached or fifteen (15) feet above grade, whichever is lower.
• Buildings on corner lots may have one projecting sign facing each street.
• The size of the lettering and graphics on a projecting sign must be appropriate for
viewing by pedestrians.
7. Wall Mounted Signs
• For each business on a separate property,
wall-mounted signage for each street frontage
is permitted with a maximum area of one (1)
square foot of signage per one lineal foot of
street frontage, but in no case measuring an
aggregate of more than one hundred (100)
square feet.
• Buildings which have multiple businesses accessed by separate entrances shall be
permitted one building sign of a maximum of thirty-two (32) square feet per business.
• When two (2) or more businesses occupy one (1) building with common entrances
(i.e. without separate entrances) they shall be considered one (1) business for sign
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computation purposes. This means that for wall or building signs, buildings of this
nature are limited to one building sign per street frontage plus one directory sign per
common entrance.
• Structures abutting more than one street may have wall signs, with an aggregate size
as described above, for each wall facing a street.
• The depth of wall signs on multi-tenant buildings should be consistent.
• The size and location of wall signs shall be reviewed in terms of their relationship to
the building entry, height of sign fascia, or size of wall where the sign is to be
installed and the relationship to other signs on a building, as well as visibility from
the street, sidewalk or parking lot.
• On multi-tenant buildings wall signs should be evaluated for compatibility as part of a
sign program with the building and character of neighboring signs in terms of size,
color, lighting materials, sign style, and quality.
8. Window Signs
• Permanent window signs must be comprised of
individual letters, logos, or design elements that
are not encompassed by a solid opaque
background so as not to obscure the view through
the window.
• Shall not cumulatively exceed twenty-five (25)
percent of the area of the window on which they
are placed on the first floor and ten (10) percent
on all floors above the first floor.
• Signs of temporary or seasonal nature do not
require a sign permit.
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CHAPTER 5, 6, 7 CONTENTS __________ _
6. UTILITIES/STORMWATER……………………………… Page 87
A.) Location and Appearance
B.) Maintenance and Ownership
7. DEFINITIONS……………………………………………… Page 89
8. REVIEW PROCESS……………………………………….. Page 93
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6. UTILITIES/STORM WATER _______ _
A. LOCATION AND APPEARANCE
Intent- To ensure storm water and utility locations do not detract from the character of
the neighborhood, yet would provide access for maintenance. When possible, located to
the rear of the building and screened from pubic view. Landscaping and fencing are
methods most commonly used to camouflage the appearance of any utilities, to include
services such as phone, electric, cable, etc.
It is recommended, when possible to ensure deep, wet storm water ponds not be placed in
the front yard of any lot. If a pond is placed in the front yard area, it is recommended the
storm water pond be wet, aerated and fountained for aesthetics to include any allowable
landscaping.
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B. MAINTENANCE AND OWNERSHIP
Intent- To ensure the utilities are properly maintained and operational as designed, by the
owner of the property. This can be done through separate parcel identification in a major
subdivision or one parcel for complete ownership depending on the type of plan. The
Town shall not be responsible for any utilities that it does not provide through municipal
services.
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7. DEFINITIONS _
Belt Courses- A course (horizontal layer) of stone or brick, flush with the wall or projecting
from an exterior, masonry wall; used to mark a floor line or visually to reduce the
height of a building. Generally narrower than the other courses.
Candela (cd): Unit of luminous intensity. One candela is one lumen per steradian. Formerly
called the candle.
Clerestory- (1) is the upper part of the wall of a church (above the roofs of the aisles) having
windows in it; also, the windows in that wall and/or (2) in contemporary
architecture, an upper part of a wall whose windows allow light into the center of
a high-ceilinged room.
Cornice- Any molded projection which finishes or crowns the part to which it is attached.
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Dormer
Windows- A small house-like structure that projects from a roof and includes a window. A
method of admitting light and air to the attic, which was first used for sleeping
space. The roofs of most dormers are miniatures of large roof types, e . g .
Façade- Front or principal face of a building; any side of a building that faces a street or
other open space
Full Cutoff- A luminaire light distribution where zero candela occurs at or above an angle of
90° above nadir. Additionally, the candela per 1000 lamp lumens does not
numerically exceed 100 (10%) at or above a vertical angle of 80° above nadir.
This applies to all lateral angles around the luminaire.
Illuminating Engineering Society of North America (IES or IESNA)- The professional society
of lighting engineers, including those from manufacturing companies, and others
professionally involved in lighting.
International Dark Sky Association (IDA, Inc.)- A non-profit organization whose goals are to
build awareness of the value of dark skies, and of the need for quality lighting.
Lumen- Unit of luminous flux; the flux emitted within a unit solid angle by a point source
with a uniform luminous intensity of one candela. One footcandle is one lumen
per square foot. One lux is one lumen per square meter.
Luminaire- The complete lighting unit, including the lamp, the fixture, and other parts.
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Mullions- A vertical member separating (and often supporting) window, doors, or panels set
in series.
Parapet- A low guarding wall at any point of sudden drop, as at the edge of a terrace, roof,
battlement, balcony, etc.
Plinth- (1) A square or rectangular base for column, pilaster, or door framing. (2) When
used as a solid monumental base, often inscribed with moldings, bas reliefs, or
inscriptions, to support a statue or memorial (3) A recognizable base of an
external wall, or the base of courses of a building collectively, if so treated as to
give the appearance of a platform
Portico- A porch or covered walk consisting of a roof supported by columns
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Window
Walls- An expanse of glass running from floor to ceiling and wall to wall, sometimes
opening by means of sliding metal or wood frames.
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8. REVIEW PROCESS _
1
Pre-Application Meeting
Meeting with Staff to
discuss
Process, Application &
Fees

2
Application Submittal
(# of
copies,app.,fee,plans)

3
Determine Eligibility
as stated in document:
-New Structures
-New Structural
Alterations
-Additions
-Signage

4
Determine Process
For Specific Application
A B C
Not Subject to Consultant/P.
Administrative Staff Standards Commission
Signs & Simplified Site
Plan 170-48 Site Plan 170-47
 
5 5
Staff Requirement
Review Consultant Req. Review
Requirement Review Only Requirement Review Only
if met-move forward if met-move forward
if not met-kick back if not met-notify town to
application kick back
 
6 6
Staff Full Review Consultant Full Review
Regulation Checklist Regulation Checklist
Review Review
Provide written comments Provide written comments


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7 7
Review Comments Review Comments
forward comments to
applicant forward comments to town
(if applicable)
 
8 8
Determine Next Step Determine Next Step
if favorable-move forward
if favorable-move forward to PC
if not favorable-resubmittal if not favorable-resubmittal
option or deny option
 
9 9
Administrative Approval Planning Commission
Meeting to discuss
Approval granted on an application
administrative level Meets/Does Not Meet
94

95