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Ordinance No. 3,65530728 -1 PUBLISHED IN: THE BAYTOjdN SUN Tuesday, August 2, 1983 Monday, August 1, 1983 ORDINANCE NO. 3655 AN ORDINANCE OF THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS, REPEALING ARTICLE IV, "FIRE LANE EASEMENTS," OF CHAPTER 12; REPEALING CHAPTER 279 "SUBDIVI- SIONS"; ADOPTING A NEW CHAPTER 27 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN TO REGULATE SUB- DIVISIONS; PROVIDING A REPEALING CLAUSE; PROVIDING A SAVINGS CLAUSE; PROVIDING A PENALTY CLAUSE; AND PROVIDING FOR THE EFFECTIVE DATE HEREOF. BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF BAYTOWN, TEXAS: Section 1: That the City Council of the City of Baytown hereby repeals Article 1V, "Fire Lane Easements," of Chapter 12, of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Baytown. Section 2: That the City Council of the City of Baytown hereby repeals Chapter 27, "Subdivisions," of the Code of Ordinances of the City of Baytown. Section 3: That the City Council pf the City of Baytown hereby adopts a new Chapter 27, "Subdivisions," to the Code of Ordinances of the City of Baytown, which new Chapter 27 is attached hereto marked "Exhibit A," and made a part hereof for all intents and purposes. Section 4: All ordinances or parts of ordinances inconsistent with the terms of this ordinance are hereby repealed, provided that such repeal shall be only to the extent of such inconsistency and in all other respects this ordinance shall be cumulative of other ordinances regulating and governing the subject matter covered by this ordinance. Section 5: If any provision, section, exception, subsection, paragraph, sentence, clause or phrase of this ordinance or the application of same to any person or set of circumstances, shall for any reason be held unconstitutional, void or (" invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the validity of the remaining provisions of this ordinance or their application to other persons or sets of circumstances and to this end all provisions of this ordinance are declared to be severable. Section 6: Any person who shall violate any provision of this ordinance shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be punished by a fine of not less than Fifty and No /100 ($50.00) Dollars nor more than Two Hundred and No /100 ($200.00) Dollars. 30728 -1a Section 7: This Ordinance shall take effect from and after ten (10) days from its passage by the City Council. The City Clerk is hereby directed to give notice hereof by causing the caption of this ordinance to be published in the official newspaper of the City of Baytown at least twice within ten (10) days after the passage of this ordinance. INTRODUCED, READ, and PASSED by the affirmative vote of the City Council of the City of Baytown, this the 28th day of July, 1983. jzjY2z"- 2 CA--t4� ALLEN CANNON, Mayor ATT ST:�_ - ILEk ..HALL, City Clerk APPROVED: ANDALL B. STRONG, Cit ttorney W 30728 -1b CHAPTER 27 SUBDIVISIONS ARTICLE I. IN GENERAL Sec. 27 -1. Policy of the Commission. It is an expressed policy of the Baytown Planning Commission to review the possible influences of items, not specifically detailed in appropriate ordinances, for each development proposed within the City, it's planning area and it's extra - territorial jurisdiction. The items as discussed deal primarily with, but are not limited to the titles and description listed herein. (a) Entrances. Access and egress points for each development whether single family, multiple family or commercial. In addition to actual numbers of points, the Commission shall review setback at intersections for visual obstructions, whether parking is allowed along or within these driveways or roads; design of parking; and associated items that might have a negative effect on moving traffic into or out of a development. (b) Traffic Circulation and Flow. The Planning Commission, in addition to the items listed above, will review traffic circulation and flow within and outside a proposed development for the purpose of identifying possible increases in traffic volumes and congestion and offering alternative solutions. (c) Safety. The underlying desire of the Planning Commission is to ensure that proposed projects are developed in a manner so as to minimize any detrimental effects to a neighborhood where safety is concerned. This safety concern can consist of vehicular, pedestrian, pedicycle conflicts; fire or explosion hazards; and natural disasters. The consideration of these items does not restrict the Commission to the hazards themselves, but also to items associated with -each subject as prevention, control and evacuation that may result from any of these items. Sec. 27 -2. Scope of Chapter. These regulations shall govern every person, firm, association or corporation owning any tract of land within the city limits, 30728 -1c the planning area, or extra- territorial jurisdiction of the City of Baytown who may hereafter divide the same into two or more parts for the purpose of laying out any subdivision of any tract of land or any addition to said city, or for laying out suburban lots or building lots, or any lots, streets, parks or other portions intended for public use, or the use of purchasers or owners of lots fronting hereon or adjacent hereto and has not yet presented such subdivision plans to the Commission. The following regulations are adopted to control the subdivision of land within the corporate limits, the planning area, or the extra - territorial jurisdiction of the City of Baytown in order to provide the orderly development of the areas and to secure adequate provision for light, air, recreation, transportation, water, drainage, sewage, and other facilities. Sec. 27 -3. Definitions. (a) Subdivisions. (1) The division of a tract or parcel of land into six (6) or more parts, lots, or parcels for the purpose of transfer of ownership or building development, whether immediate or future; or (2) Any division of a parcel of land if any portion is intended for public use or use of purchasers or owners adjacent thereto, or if a new street is involved; (3) Provided, however, that a division of land which may be ordered or approved by a court or effected by testamentary or intestate provisions, or a division of land into lots or parcels of two (2) acres or more and not involving a new street shall not be deemed a subdivision. (4) The term includes resubdivision and, when appropriate to the context, shall relate to the process of subdividing or to the land subdivided. (b) Re- subdivision. The division or alteration of a tract or parcel of an existing subdivision, excepting lot consolidation and lot line adjustment. 2 30728 -1d (c) Plat. A map or chart of the subdivision. It shall include a plan, plat, or replat, in both singular and plural. (d) Commission. The City of Baytown Planning Commission. (e) Major Thoroughfares or Arterials. All streets so indicated on the thoroughfare plan, same being on file with the Director of Planning and Traffic. (f) Collector Streets. Those streets so indicated on the thoroughfare plan, same being on file with the Director of Planning and Traffic. (g) Minor or Residential Streets. All other streets not otherwise indicated. (h) Lot Consolidation. The incorporation of a number of lots into fewer lots, each of a larger size than the original lots. (i) Lot Line Adjustment. A minor change in lot line location. (j) Outdoor Living Area. Common outdoor area designed to provide a more pleasant and healthful environment for the occupants of a dwelling unit and the neighborhood in which such dwelling unit is located. It includes natural ground areas, patios, terraces, or similar areas developed for active or passive recreational activities. (k) Lot. A parcel or portion of land in a subdivision or plat of land, separated from other parcels or portions by description as on a subdivision or record of survey map or by metes and bounds, for purpose of sale or lease to, or separate use of, another. (1) Extra - territorial Jurisdiction. That land within 3 1/2 mi-les of the corporate limits of the City of Baytown, or as otherwise established by state law. (m) Planning area. That land within the extra - territorial jurisdiction of the City of Baytown and within one half (1/2) mile of the city limits proper from Burnett Bay eastward to Cedar Bayou stream, excluding all ten (10) foot strips. Sec. 27 -4. Enforcement; Penalties. (a) No map or plat of any subdivision or re- subdivision within the city, its planning area, or its extra - territorial jurisdiction, shall be filed or recorded unless and until the same has been authorized by the Commission. K 30728 -1e (b) It shall be unlawful for any owner or agent of any owner of land to lay out, subdivide, plat or replat any land into lots, blocks and streets within the city, its planning area, or its extra - territorial jurisdiction without the approval of the Commission. (c) It shall be unlawful for any owner or agent of any owner of land to offer for sale or sell property within the city, its planning area, or its extra - territorial jurisdiction which has not been laid out, subdivided, platted or replatted as required by , this chapter. (d) The city will withhold all city improvement of whatsoever nature, including the maintenance of streets, the furnishing of sewage facilities, and water service from all additions and subdividers which have not been approved by the Commission. (e) No street number and no building permit shall be issued for the erection of any building in the city on any piece of property other than an original or a re- subdivided lot in a duly approved and recorded subdivision without the written approval of the Commission. (f) In the event any provision of this chapter is violated within the city, its planning area, or its extra - territorial jurisdiction, the city may institute any appropriate action or proceedings in the district court to enjoin the violation of this chapter. (g) It shall be unlawful for any person to construct any improvement, other than public improvements such as streets, utilities, and drainage structures, in any development which has not had its final plat approved by the Commission and filed with the County Clerk. (h) Any person who shall violate any provision or provisions of this chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall, upon conviction thereof, be punished by a fine of not less than $50.00 and not more than $200.00 for each violation. Each day in which any violation shall occur or continue shall constitute a separate offense. Sec. 27-5. Land use restrictions within subdivision. (a) The legal department of the City of Baytown is hereby authorized to file suit or become a party to a suit on behalf 4 30728 -1f of the city in any court of competent jurisdiction for the purpose of enjoining or abating the violation of any restriction contained or incorporated by reference in any plan, plat, replat, or other instrument affecting a subdivision within the city limits of the City of Baytown which instrument is heretofore or hereafter duly recorded in the records of the county clerk of the county in which the subject property is situated and which restriction protects or tends to protect the residential character of the neighborhood where the subject property is situated; provided, however, that after a careful investigation of the facts and of the law, or either, if in the opinion of the City Attorney no legal cause of action could be alleged and proved, then in such event, the city shall not file or become a party to a suit. (b) The word "restriction" as used in this section, shall be construed to mean a limitation which affects the use to which real property may be put, fixes the distances buildings or structures must be set back from the property lines, street lines, or lot lines, or affects the size of a lot or the size, type and number of buildings or structures which may be built on the property. Sec. 27 -6. Appeal of Commission Decision. (a) Any person shall have the right to appeal any decision of the Commission to the City Council of the City of Baytown by making written request to the City Manager. Such request must be filed with the City Manager within fifteen (15) days after such person has been notified of the decision of the Commission on the matter involved. (b) No person shall have any right to appeal for relief to any Court in regard to any matter covered by this chapter until after such person has exhausted the appeal procedure provided for in this chapter. 5 30728 -1g ARTICLE II. PLATTING PROCEDURE Sec. 27 -18. Departmental Review (Stage One). There shall be a three -stage process for plats required to be submitted to the commission for approval, consisting of a departmental review (stage one), preliminary approval (stage two) and final approval (stage three). The number of copies of the development plan required to be filed at the appropriate times shall be fifteen (15) copies for Stages Two and Three (Preliminary and Final Approval). (a) Departmental Review. The owner, or his authorized agent, shall submit to the Department of Planning and Traffic, a plot plan, drawn to scale not less than 1" = 100' (preferably the scale of 1" = 20' or 1" = 60'). The developer and the planning staff shall meet together and determine whether the applicable requirements of this Code of Ordinances have been complied with. If there is disagreement on this issue, the applicant, by request, or the staff, may take this pre - preliminary information to the Commission for their determination. If the staff and applicant reach a satisfactory agreement, the applicant may proceed to prepare data for Stage Two - Preliminary Approval. (b) Preliminary Approval Application. Applications for Preliminary Approval shall be made by the owner, or his authorized agent, of all affected property and shall be filed on a form prescribed by the city planning staff and filed with said department. Applications shall be accompanied by a fee prescribed in the Fee Schedule, Sec. 27 -22, and accompanied by the following information: Sec. 27 -18 (b) (1) Platting Procedure. (1) Copies of the preliminary development plan of the entire development drawn to scale and showing streets, utility easements, building lines, relevant operational data, drawings and /or elevations clearly establishing the scale and open space. Such development plan shall include a location map showing information on the surrounding area within four hundred (400) feet of the development. A boundary survey or a certified boundary description by a registered engineer or licensed surveyor, plus contour information, shall 3072E -1h also be submitted. The elevation of all points used to determine the contours shall be indicated on the preliminary plan and said points shall be given to true elevation above mean sea level as determined by the city engineer. The base data shall be clearly indicated and shall be compatible to city datum, if bench marks are not adjacent. The following intervals are required: (i) One -foot contour intervals for ground slopes up to five ( 5 ) per cent. (ii) Two -foot contour intervals for ground slopes between five (5) per cent and ten (10) per cent. (iii) Five -foot contour intervals for ground slopes exceeding ten (10) per cent. All elements listed in this paragraph shall be characterized as existing or proposed and sufficiently detailed to indicate intent and impact. (2) A tabulation of the land area to be devoted to various uses, and a calculation of the average residential density per net acre. (3) A development schedule demonstrating that the developer intends to commence construction within one year after the approval of the final development plan, and will proceed diligently to completion. (4) If it is proposed that the final plan will be executed in stages, a schedule thereof shall be required. (c) The required data shall be submitted to the Director of Planning and Traffic not less than seven (7) days prior to the Commission meeting at which preliminary approval is sought. Sec. 27 -19. Preliminary Approval (Stage Two). (a) The application for preliminary approval shall be considered by the Commission in a public meeting. The developer or his Engineer shall be present. (b) The Commission shall determine whether the proposal 'conforms to city and other applicable regulations, and may approve or disapprove the application and the accompanying preliminary development plan or require such changes therein or impose such conditions of approval as are in its judgment necessary to ensure conformity to said regulations. Should positive or negative action not be taken within thirty (30) days after filing, the application and preliminary development plan shall be deemed approved unless said time has been extended by the developer. 30728 -1i (c) Preliminary approval does not constitute acceptance of the plat by the city, but is merely authority to proceed with preparation of the final plat. It shall be unlawful for any work to be done on the ground until the final plat has been approved, except basic site clearing may commence at the developer's risk. Sec. 27 -20.1 Engineering Report (Stage Two). Developers shall file three (3) copies of the engineering plans with the City Engineer after preliminary approval for review approval. The City Engineer may forward copies of the plans to County Agencies, if appropriate, for review of public improvements, including streets, utilities and drainage. When the development lies outside the planning area, the plans shall be forwarded to the County Agencies. The Commission shall not act on a final plat until it has first received a report from the City Engineer outlining drainage improvements or written approval from County Agencies, if appropriate. Sec. 27 -20.2 Final Approval (Stage Three). (a) Within one hundred and eighty (180) days after preliminary approval and within thirty (30) days of submission of the final plan, the Commission shall examine such plat and determine whether it conforms to all applicable criteria and standards and whether it conforms in all substantial respects to the previously approved plat. The developer or his Engineer shall be present at the meeting. When submittal of engineering data is required to a county agency and when it can be shown that the county agency required a longer time for approval of engineering plans, the Director of Planning and Traffic may extend the one hundred and eighty (180) days by ninety (90) days but not more than two hundred and seventy (270) days from preliminary approval action by the Planning Commission. (b) The final plat shall be submitted to the Director of Planning and Traffic at least seven (7) days prior to the Commission meeting at which final approval is sought and accompaned by the final filing fee as prescribed in the Fee Schedule, Sec. 27 -22. N. 30728 -1j (c) Three sets of plans and specifications for water, sewer, paving, and drainage prepared by an engineer registered in Texas, as approved in writing by the City Engineer, shall be submitted prior to the beginning of any construction of the subdivision to the Engineering Department. (d) The final plat shall show or be accompanied by the following data: (1) Plats shall be drawn upon sheets 24 x 36 inches to the scale of one hundred feet to the inch, unless another scale is approved by the Director of Planning and Traffic. (2) A title including name of subdivision, owner or owners and the certification of licensed land surveyor or registered engineer or registered public surveyor responsible for the plat, and the scale and location of the subdivision with reference to original land grants or surveys, the data and north point. (3) A certificate of ownership and dedication of all streets, easements, parks, and playgrounds to public use forever, signed and acknowledged before a notary public by the owner and lienholder of the land. (4) An accurate on- the - ground boundary survey of the property with bearings and distances and showing the lines of all adjacent land, streets and easements with their names and width. (Streets and lot lines in adjacent subdivision shall be shown dotted). All necessary data to reproduce the plat on the ground must be shown on the plat, including building lines. (5) Certificate of approval to be signed by the chairman and secretary of the Commission shall be placed on the face of the plat. (5.1) Certificate of approval from Harris County Flood Control District shall be placed on the face of the plat when one of their facilities is immediately adjacent or dedication to them is required. E 30723 -1k (6) All construction shall be inspected while in progress by the City Engineering Department and must receive final approval upon completion by the City Engineer. A letter by such officers stating that the construction conforms to the specifications and standards contained in or referred to herein must be presented to the Planning and Traffic Department prior to filing of the final plat. If the subdivider chooses to file security in lieu of completing construction prior to final plat filing, he may utilize one of the accepted methods of posting security. A subdivider may not file security in lieu of completing construction, if the water lines, sanitary sewer lines, lift stations (if any) and storm water systems are not completed and approved by the City Engineer, nor if less than seventy -five percent (75 %) of all required improvements have been completed. If the subdivider chooses to file security, the plat shall not be filed unless the subdivider has done one of the following: W Performance Bond. Has filed with the Department of Planning and Traffic a bond executed by a surety company holding a license to do business in the State of Texas, and acceptable to the City of Baytown, on the form provided by the City, in an amount equal to the cost of the improvements required by this chapter and within the time for completion of the improvements as estimated by the City Engineer. The performance bond shall be approved as to form and legality by the City Attorney; or (ii) Trust Agreement. Has placed on deposit in a bank or trust company in the name of the city, and approved by the City of Baytown, and filed a copy of same with the Department of Planning and Traffic, in a trust account a sum of money equal to the - estimated cost of all site improvements required by this chapter, the cost and time of completion as estimated by the City Engineer. Selection of the trustee shall be subject to approval by the City of Baytown and the trust agreement shall be executed on the form provided by the City and approved as to form and legality by the City Attorney; or 30728 -1j (iii) Unconditional Guarantee from bank or federall insured savings and loan association or other financial institution as approved by the City of Baytown. Has filed with the Department of Planning and Traffic a letter on the form provided by the city, signed by a principal officer of a bank or federally insured savings and loan association or other financial institution, acceptable to the City of Baytown, agreeing to pay to the City of Baytown, on demand, a stipulated sum of money to apply to the estimated costs of installation of all improvements for which the subdivider or developer is responsible under this chapter. The guarantee payment sum shall be the estimated costs and scheduling as prepared by the City Engineer. The letter shall state the name of the subdivision and shall list the improvements and amounts which the subdivider or developer is required to provide. (iv) Cashiers or certified check. Has filed with the Department of Planning and Traffic a cashiers or certified check payable to the City of Baytown in an amount equal to the cost of the improvements required by this chapter. After final inspection, the City Engineer shall notify the subdivider and the Director of Planning and Traffic in writing as to their acceptance or rejection of the construction. If accepted, the security is released. They shall reject such construction, only if it fails to comply with the standards and specifications contained or re- referred to herein. If they reject such construction, the City Attorney shall proceed to enforce the guarantees provided in .this section. The City Engineer may approve partial releases of the security retained by the City upon partial acceptance by the City Engineer of required improvements. Where good cause exists, the City Engineer may extend the period of time for completion under paragraph (6i, ii, iii, iv) of this section. Such extension of time shall be reported to the Department of Planning and Traffic. No such extension shall be granted unless security as provided in 11 30728 -1k said paragraph (6i, ii, iii, iv) has been provided by the subdivider covering the extended period of time. (7) Two copies of the proposed deed restrictions. (8) If any part of the plat lies in a flood hazard area, then one -foot contour lines shall be drawn with a very heavy line and designated. The plat shall also show the following statement in print equal in size to the certificates of approval: "Parts of this plat lower than the 100 -year flood elevation have a one percent (1 %) chance each year of being inundated by flooding." Sec. 27 -22. Filing Fee for Plats. (a) All applications to the Commission for the approval of any proposed plat required to be submitted to the Commission shall be submitted to the Planning and Traffic Department and shall be accompanied by a filing fee of Fifty and No /100 ($50.00) Dollars applicable to the final fee. Applicants shall also furnish to the Department additional fees as determined in conformance with the following schedule and the Commission shall not act upon any plat submitted to it unless all fees as provided herein have been received with the submittal. Preliminary fees shall cover a maximum of 180 days. (b) Final Plat. One and No /100 ($1.00) Dollar per dwelling unit plus Five and No /100 ($5.00) Dollars per acre for other uses, but not less than Fifty and No /100 ($50.00) Dollars. (c) Vacation of Subdivisions. Twenty -five and No /100 ($25.00) Dollars filing fee, plus Fifteen and N01100 ($15.00) Dollars per acre (gross area of whole tract), and in accordance with Section 5, Article 974a VTCS. Sec. 27 -23. Lot Consolidation and Lot Line Adjustment. (a) Lot consolidation or adjustment may be accomplished without replatting, provided the appropriate regulations are followed. The Director of Planning and Traffic is authorized to approve, without Planning Commission concurrance, when all the following requirements are met. 12 30728 -11 (b) Lot Consolidation Regulations. (1) No more than three (3) lots shall be affected by the proposed lot consolidation. (2) No such adjustment shall alter any public right -of -way or public easement. (c) Lot Line Adjustment Regulations. (1) Lot line adjustments may be made provided there is concurrence by the two owners of property involved in the lot line adjustment. (2) The proposed adjusted lot line is a single, straight line or is parallel to the existing lot line. (3) The lot line adjustment is not more than a minimum of ten (10) feet average relocation of the existing lot line. (4) The lot line adjustment shall not be inconsistent with any provision of recorded subdivision restrictions or convenants. (5) No more than two (2) lots are affected. (d) Procedure For Commission Approval. (1) The following shall be submitted to the Director of Planning and Traffic seven (7) days prior to the Commission meeting at which action is sought: (i) Completed application for Lot Line Adjustment form accompanied by a filing fee of Twenty and N61100 ($20.00) Dollars. (ii) Copies of deeds and restrictive convenants to all lots involved. (iii) Scale drawing on legal size paper snowing all lots involved, as platted, and as desired. (2) Action of the Commission shall be final and no proposal regarding the same lots shall be considered for a period of six (6) months. (e) Approval by the Director.of Planning and Traffic requires the submittal of items in (d) (i), (ii) and (iii) at any time. 13 30728 -1m ARTICLE III. OTHER DEVELOPMENTS Sec. 27 -31. Planned Unit Developments. (a) The purpose of this section is to encourage the appro- priate development of tracts of land of sufficient size to allow comprehensive planning and to provide flexibility in the application of certain regulations in a manner consistent with the general provisions of the city regulations. (b) Approval of, and eligibility for the application of this section shall be determined by the Commission. Generally, the site shall include not less than four acres of contiguous land, unless the Commission finds that the property of less than four acres is suitable by virtue of its unique historical character, topography, or other natural features, or by virtue of its qualifying as an isolated problem area. At preliminary approval the developer shall provide the Planning Commission with the proposed layout of the development. (c) The minimum lot area, width, frontage and yard requirements - for single - family residences otherwise applying shall not dictate the strict guidelines for development of the planned unit develop- ment. Minimum lot area, in this case, may be reduced only by the provision of outdoor living area, such that the total outdoor living areas, when added to the area in single lots, produces lots with a minimum area of not less than five thousand four hundred (5,400) square feet for each lot. (d) Whenever Outdoor Living Area is provided, the Commission shall require that an association of owners be created, which shall adopt such articles of incorporation and by -laws and impose such declaration of convenants and restrictions on such Outdoor Living Areas that are acceptable to the city legal department. Said association shall be formed for the purpose of maintaining all common areas. Such an association, if required, may undertake other functions. It shall be created in such manner that owners of property shall automatically be members and shall be subject to assessments levied to maintain said common area for the purposes intended. The dedication of fire lane, utility, flood control easements or any private streets or alleys shall be maintained by the association. 14 7 30728 -1n Sec. 27 -32. Condominiums. (a) It shall be unlawful for any developer or agent of any developer to offer for sale or sell any structure or building or offer for sale or sell any unit or units of a condominium project without the approval of the Commission. (b) Definitions: (1) "Condominium" means the separate ownership of single units or apartments in a multiple unit structure or structures with any common element. (2) "Condominium project" means a real estate condominium project; a plan or project whereby four (4) or more apartments, rooms (office spaces), or other units in existing or proposed buildings or structures are offered or proposed to be offered for sale. (3) "Condominium regime" means the declaring, through the recordation of a master deed, lease, or declara- tion, the intent to submit their property to joint ownership as a condominium. (4) "Developer" means a person who undertakes to develop a real estate condominium project. (5) "Unit" means an enclosed space consisting of one (1) or more rooms occupying all or part of a floor in a building of one (1) or more floors or stories regard- less of whether it be designed for residence, for business office, or for any other type of independent use, provided it has a direct exit to a thoroughfare or to a given common space leading to a thoroughfare. (6) "Townhouse -type dwelling unit" means a structure which is one or a series of dwelling units designed for single- family occupancy, which dwelling units are structurally connected or immediately adjacent to each other without side yards between individual dwelling units. (7) "Apartment -type dwelling unit" means those structures designed for or to be used for occupancy by more than three (3) families, or those units having more 15 30723 -10 than two (2) points or areas of attachment with other dwelling units, except that units located on the ends of structures shall have more than one (1) common point or area of attachment. (8) "Co- owner" means a person, firm, corporation, partner- ship, association, trust or other legal entity, or any combination thereof, who owns a unit or units within the condominium project. (9) "Council of co- owners" means the association of unit owners which administers and maintains the common property and common elements of the condo- minium regime. (10) "General common elements" means and includes: (i) The land, whether leased or in fee simple, on which the building stands; (ii) The foundations, bearing walls and columns, roofs, halls, lobbies, stairways, and entrances and exits or communication ways; (iii) The basement, flat roofs, yard and gardens, except as otherwise provided or stipulated; (iv) The premises for the lodging of janitors or persons in charge of the building, except as otherwise provided or stipulated; (v) The compartments or installation of central services such as power, light, gas, cold and hot water, refrigeration, central air conditioning, and central heating, reservoirs, water tanks and pumps, swimming pools, and the like; (vi) The elevators and shafts, garbage incinerators' and, in general all devices or installations existing for common use; and (vii) All other elements of the building desirable or rationally of common use or necessary to the existence, upkeep and safety of the con- dominium regime, and any other elements described in the declaration. 16 30728 -1p (c) Townhouse -type dwelling units: A proposed condominium project consisting of townhouse - type dwelling units shall in addition to the requirements of this section, comply with all townhouse subdivision regulations and any amendments thereto. (d) Apartment -type dwelling units: A proposed condominium project consisting of apartment - type dwelling units shall, in addition to the requirements of this section, comply with all fire lane easement regulations and any amendments thereto. (e) Procedure for approval: (1) Every developer, sole owner, or the co- owners of a building or buildings or proposed building or buildings within the city, its planning area, or its extra - territorial jurisdiction who expressly declare, through the recordation of a master deed, lease, or declaration, their desire to submit their property to a condominium regime shall file a plat of such land with the Commission for its approval in conformance with the standard rules of such Commission and dedicating public streets, easements, and all other dedications and convenants required herein. (2) Such map or plat shall accurately describe the entire area or tract of land upon which said building or buildings are located or are to be constructed and shall indicate the location of all public streets, buildings, easements, and common area. Such map or plat shall be prepared in conformance with the requirements and rules of the Commission. (3) In addition to such map or plat, said persons shall file the Declaration of Convenants, Conditions and Restrictions establishing a condominium regime with the Commission. Such declaration shall contain: 17 30728 -1q (i) The legal description of the land,-which description shall be depicted by a plat showing the land involved and the location of each building or proposed building to be located thereon. Each building to be denoted by letter, via: A, B, C, etc. (ii) The general description and the number of each apartment, expressing its square footage, location, and any other data necessary for its identification, which information will be depicted by a plat of such floor of each building showing also the letter of the building, and number of the floor and the number of the apartment. (iii) The general description of each garage, carport, or any other area to be subject to individual ownership and exclusive control; which information will be depicted by a plat showing such garage, carport, or other area appropriately lettered or numbered. (iv) The description of the general common elements less paragraph (1) above. (v) The description of the limited common elements. (vi) The fractional or percentage interest which each apartment bears to the entire condominium regime, the sum of which shall be one (1) if expressed in fractions and one hundred (100) if expressed in percentages. (vii) Any further provisions, matters, or convenants desired. (4) To insure the proper administration of the condominium regime and the creation of a council of co- owners, the developer shall submit the by -laws of the condominium project to the Commission for their review. 18 30728 -1r Sec. 27 -33. Townhouse Subdivision. (a) Definitions. (1) Townhouse shall mean a structure which is one of a series of dwelling units desigi family occupancy, which dwelling turally connected or immediately other without side yards between units. (2) Townhouse subdivision shall mean ied for single - units are struc- adjacent to each individual dwelling to those developments in which it is proposed to partition land into individual lots and construct townhouses which may be individually owned and where the minimum lot sizes are to be less than those required under this chapter. (3) Interior street shall mean public streets not more than 600 feet long with a "townhouse subdivision" which street is located and designed to serve a limited area within such subdivision and shall not serve other properties outside the subdivision. (4) Access street shall mean those public streets within or bounding a "townhouse subdivision" which serve a townhouse subdivision and other adjacent property. (5) Open space shall mean private property under common ownership designated for recreation area, private park (for use of property owners within the subdivision) plat lot area, plaza area, building setbacks (other than those normally required), and ornamental areas open to general view within the subdivision. Open space does not include streets, alleys, utility easements, and required building setbacks. (6) Parcel shall mean that tract of land proposed to be developed and owned in fee by the developer. (b) Townhouse Subdivision Requirements. Any person proposing or intending to develop a townhouse subdivision within the city, its planning area, or its 19 30728 -1s extra - territorial jurisdiction, shall, before any building permit is issued, cause a plat of such townhouse subdivision to be approved by the Commission, which plat shall be in conformance with all of the provisions of this chapter, except to the extent that such provisions are inconsistent with the following requirements, which shall control with regard to townhouse subdivisions: (1) Streets. (i) Interior streets shall have a minimum right- of -way of 50 feet and shall be developed with a minimum 29 -foot paving section with concrete curbs and gutters in accordance with standards set forth in Article IV of this Code of Ordinances. (ii) Access streets shall have a minimum right -of- way width of.60 feet and shall be developed with a minimum 39 -foot paving section with concrete curbs and gutters in accordance with such standards. (iii) All "townhouse subdivisions" shall have a direct access from at least one dedicated and accessible public street having a right -of -way width of not less than fifty (50) feet. (2) Building Setback Lines. (i) Building setback lines of 20 feet shall be required on all lots fronting or backing on an access street. (ii) Building setback lines of 10 feet shall be required on all lots siding on access streets or upon a plat boundary. (iii) No building lines shall be required on the sides of lots abutting interior streets, except where traffic safety or other factors necessitate the establishment of such setback. (iv) Where townhouse lots and dwelling units are designed to face upon an open or common access 20 30728 -1t court rather than upon a public street, and open or common court shall be at least forty (40) feet wide and not more than two hundred (200') feet long, measured from the public street upon which the court must open. Said court may not include vehicular drives or parking area in front of dwelling units. (3) Lots. (i) Lot area shall be a minimum of 2,500 square feet, except as provided herein below. (ii) Lot width shall be a minimum of 24 feet, except as provided herein below. (iii) If side yards are provided along interior lot lines, the side yard of each abutting lot shall be at least five (5') feet so that there shall be at least ten (101) feet between all adjacent buildings without a common wall. Side yards provided along a lot siding on an access street or along the boundary of the plat shall be at least ten (10') feet. (iv) Dwelling units shall be constructed up to interior side lot lines without side yards and windows shall not face an interior side lot line without a side yard. Windows may face a side lot line if the side wall of the dwelling unit is at least 10 feet from an adjacent building across an interior lot line. (v) Lot size may be reduced under the provision that open space, as defined herein, is provided according to the following schedule: For every 100 square feet of open space per lot provided, the minimum lot area may be reduced by 200 square feet and the width of the lot may be reduced as shown below. No lot shall, however, have a lot area of less than 2,000 square feet or a width of less than 20 feet. 21 30728 -1u Open space provided Per Dwelling Unit Lot 0 square feet 100 square feet 200 square feet 250 square feet Minimum Lot Area 2,500 square feet 2,300 square feet 2,100 square feet 2,000 square feet Minimum Lot Width 24 feet 23 feet 21 feet 20 feet Open space must be provided in increments as shown above, and credit will not be allowed on a proportionate basis. The dedication, location, and use of open space shall in all cases be subject to the approval of the Commission. (4) Density Standard. The maximum density shall not exceed eight (8) dwelling units per parcel acre, except that: (i) Credit may be given for up to one -half of any abutting permanent open space in computing the developer's parcel acreage. Examples of "permanent open space" would be an existing public park or flood control drainage easement. Land in private ownership or in public street right -of -way does not constitute "permanent open space." The determination of "permanent open space" eligibility shall rest with the Commission. (ii) Consideration may be given for townhouse subdivisions proposed in areas which are primarily commercial in nature or areas which are primarily devoted to multi - family dwelling projects at the time the plat is submitted, and where the townhouse subdivision has direct access to a major thoroughfare capable of handling the increased traffic volume generated. In general, property with direct access to and within 300 feet of a designated major thoroughfare shall qualify as a commercial area, as well as other areas that the Commission determine to be primarily commerical in nature. The determina- tion of whether an area is "primarily commercial" or "primarily multi - family" shall rest solely with the Commission. 22 30728 -1v (iii) The provisions of sub - paragraphs (i), (ii), (iii), and (iv) of this section shall apply to all townhouse subdivisions regardless of the density approved by the Commission. (5) Screening Walls. Where townhouse lots are backing or siding upon an existing public street, a 2- foot -wide private easement shall be provided abutting the street and a masonry wall not less than six (61) feet high shall be constructed upon the easement to provide a visual screen. Sec. 27 -34. Commercial developments. (a) Definitions (1) Dwelling,-Single-Family, Detached. A "single- family detached dwelling" is a fixed building containing only one dwelling unit and occupied by only one family and entirely surrounded by open space on its building site. (2) Easement. An "easement" is a grant by the property owner to the City, a corporation, or persons of the use of a strip of land for specific purposes. (3) Fire Lane Easement. A "fire lane easement" is an easement improved and maintained by the owner or co -owner of the land across which it is located. For the primary purpose of providing ingress and egress to buildings served thereby for policemen, firemen, and fire - fighting and emergency vehicles and equipment and for the location therein of water mains, fire hydrants, and other public utilities. A fire lane easement remains private property except for the restrictions herein imposed. (4) Person. A "person" is any individual, firm, partnership, or corporation of any nature whatsoever. (5) Street. A "street" is a public right -of -way which provided primary public vehicular access to abutting property and is designated as either a street, highway, 23 30728 -1w thoroughfare, major thoroughfare, freeway, parkway, avenue, lane, boulevard, road or drive. (6) Permanent Open Space. A "permanent open space" is an open space which in• the judgment of the Planning Commission, may be expected to remain open and un- developed. Examples of permanent open space would be existing public parks or flood control drainage easements. Land in private ownership or public street ,w right -of -way does not constitute permanent open space. (b) General Provisions (1) Every person, before making application for a building permit for the erection of any building or buildings on any tract of land within the corporate limits of the City of Baytown, shall file a plat of such land with the Planning Commission for its approval in conformance with the standard rules of such Commission and dedicating thereon fire lane easements and all other dedications and covenants required herein, WREN, the building or buildings: (i) Are designed for or to be used for occupancy by two (2) families, or (ii) Are designed for use or occupancy by more than one (1) business, industrial, or commercial establishment, or (iii) Is located more than 300 feet from a public street or in conflict with the major thoroughfare plan. (2) Such map or plat shall accurately describe the entire area or tract of land upon which said building or buildings are to be located and shall indicate the location of all public streets, fire lane easements, buildings, easements, and fire hydrants. Such map or plat shall be prepared in conformance with the requirements herein and with rules of the Planning Commission and shall be submitted according to Plat Submittal Procedure and Requirements. Upon final approval of the Planning Commission, said plat shall be recorded in the map records of the County wherein the land is situated. 24 30728 -1x (3) Notwithstanding the above general requirements, the Planning Director may, upon review of the preliminary plat submittal as required not require the filing of a final plat in the county records provided the following specific conditions are met: (1) A fire lane or utility easements will not be required due to the location and accessibility of the building(s) with respect to the existing public street system. (2) Density requirements are not exceeded. (3) All structures lie within 300 feet of a dedicated and improved street. (4) No conflict exists with the Major Thoroughfare Plan. (5) No street right -of -way dedication is required. This action does not release the developer from meeting drainage requirements. (c) Requirements ,(1) All structures shall be located so as to be within three hundred (300') feet of a dedicated, accessible, and improved public street or within one hundred fifty (150') feet of a dedicated, accessible, and improved fire lane easement. (2) No dwelling unit shall be located more than three hundred (300') feet from a functioning fire hydrant. (3) A fire lane easement shall have a minimum of twenty - eight (28') feet of paved roadway. (4) Fire lane easements shall receive primary access from a dedicated and improved public street of not less than fifty (50') feet of right -of -way. (5) Fire lane easements which curve, turn, or change directions shall have a minimum center line curve radius of thirty -five (35') feet. (6) Fire lane easements with reverse curves shall have a minimum tangent length of fifty (50') feet between points of curve. (7) Dead -end fire lane easements shall be terminated with an unobstructed vehicular turn - around or cul -de -sac with a minimum paved radius of forty (40') feet. 25 30728 -1y (8) Dead -end fire lane easements shall have a maximum length of three hundred (300') feet. (9) Fire lane delineation. Fire lane easements shall be marked and designated by a metal sign at the entrance or intersection of the fire lane easement and a public street, and shall also be posted every hundred (100') feet along the fire lane easement. This sign shall be on at least .065 thick, 12" x 18" aluminum blank. Lettering is to be red on a white background, and shall be reflective with a red border The sign shall state in 1 1/2 -inch letters the following: Fire Lane Easement. Pavement markings may be used in lieu of signing. The owner of a project or development containing fire lane easements shall be responsible for maintaining an open easement at all times. Said owner may be subjected to a fine of $10 per day for any object blocking any part of the fire lane easement at any time. (10) The dedication of public streets or easements to the City shall be by recorded plat. Said dedication shall conform to all the rules and regulations of the Planning Commission. (11) Public streets and /or fire lane easements shall be constructed in accordance with the minimum standards of the City's Engineering Standards. (12) No building permit other than a foundation permit may be issued for the construction of buildings under this section until such time as the water lines and fire hydrants necessary for protection have been constructed in a manner suitable to the fire chief or his designated representative. Flammable materials may not be stockpiled on a building site under a foundation permit, and such stockpiling shall be grounds for revoking a foundation permit. (d) Site Standards (1) Residential development designed for rental occupancy shall not exceed twenty (20) dwelling units per parcel acre except that: 26 30728 -1z (1) In computing the developers parcel acreage credit may be given for up to one -half (1/2) of any abutting permanent open space as determined by the Planning Commission. (2) In no case shall open space be utilized to permit densities in excess of one hundred and fifty per cent (150 %) of those otherwise permitted. (2) On -site parking shall be provided for residential development designated for rental occupancy at the rate of two and one - quarter (2 1/4) spaces per dwelling unit. (3) Controlled income and rent housing may be approved upon recommendation by the Planning Commission and approval of the City Council, utilizing the following criteria: (i) The site must be approved by the federal agency responsible for financing and the contemplated project must be subject to income limitations set forth in the federal regulations. (ii) Density allowances will take into consideration family sizes and age of intended occupants. (iii) Parking requirements may be adjusted by the Commission to fit demonstrated demand in similar projects. 27 30728 -laa ARTICLE IV. GENERAL STANDARDS Sec. 27 -41. Streets. (a) The street pattern of a neighborhood should provide adequate circulation within the subdivision and yet discourage excessive through traffic on local streets. (b) Major street locations, alignments, widths, and cross- sections shall be determined by the Commission. (c) Designated major streets shall be dedicated by the ' developer in accordance with the current Major Thoroughfare Plan on file in the office of the Director of Planning and Traffic. Developers seeking an exception to this requirement must show reasonable evidence that, (1) the thoroughfare will provide no benefit to their development, or (2) the size or shape of the parcel is such that right -of -way in excess of 60 feet will physically prevent the use proposed for the parcel. The developer shall pave with curb and gutter, both sides of a major thoroughfare along which he retains commercial acreage abutting the right -of -way. Where the developer proposes residential development along the major thoroughfare, the city may participate to the extent of one -half the paving and drainage cost along the residential section. Example 1: A developer plats a subdivision containing a portion of a major street, but retains commercial frontage on both sides of the street right -of -way. He would be required to pave both sides of the dual 24 -foot pavement. Example 2: A developer plats a subdivision containing a portion of a major street with residential lots on both sides of the street. The city may participate in the paving and drainage to the extent of one 24 -foot pavement and one -half the drainage cost of the lots abutting the major street. Example 3: A developer plats a subdivision containing a portion of a major street with one side commercial and one side residential. The city may participate to the extent of one -half the paving and drainage cost of the street. (For example the city may pay for 12 feet of paving plus one -half of any storm sewer serving the residential side of the street). 28 30728 -lbb (d) Right -of -way width (from Engineer Standards). (e) Street Curves. (1) Curves in major streets are to have a center line radius of 2,000 feet or more with exceptions to this standard granted only by the Commission. (2) Reverse curves are to be separated by a minimum tangent of 100 feet. (3) Curves in minor or residential streets are to have a center line radius of 300 feet or more unless unusual circumstances prevent it. Under no circum- stances shall the radius be less than 150 feet. (4) Collector streets are to have a center line radius of 800 feet or more with exceptions to this standard granted only by the Commission. (f) Intersections. (1) All streets, major, collector or minor, are to intersect at 90- degree angles. Variations must be approved by the Commission. (2) Acute angle intersections approved by the Commission are to have 25 -foot radii at acute corners. (3) Street offsets, when approved by the Commission, shall be a minimum distance of 125 feet on center line. (g) Cul -de -sac (Dead -End Streets with Turn - Arounds). (1) Turn - arounds are to have a minimum right -of -way radius of 50 feet for a single - family use and 60 feet for apartments, commercial, or other uses, except that turn - arounds where other than curb and gutter development is used shall have minimum right -of -way radius of 60 feet adjacent to land to be used for single - family residence and 70 feet adjacent to land to be used for other than single - family residence. No islands or planters shall be permitted. (2) Maximum length of a dead -end street with a pavement turn - around, 800 feet. (3) Temporary turn - arounds are to be used only where curb and gutter is not installed at the end of a street more than 400 feet long that will be extended 29 30728 -1-9c in the future. Base of turn - arounds to comprise six (6) inch stabilization with asphaltic topping. (4) Note for Temporary Turn - Around. "Cross- hatched area is temporary easement for turn - around until street is extended (directional) in a recorded plat." (h) Block Length. (1) Maximum block length for residential, 2,400 feet measured along the center of the block, or 1,200 feet from each intersection except under special conditions and upon approval by the Commission. (2) Maximum block length along a major thoroughfare, 3,000 feet or 1,500 feet from each intersection except under special conditions and upon approval by the Commission. (i) Partial or half - streets. Partial or half - streets may be provided where the Commission feels that a street should be located on a property line. Inside the city limits, the partial street may be dedicated,,with a one -foot reserve in fee along the property line. Outside the city limits, the following note shall be used on such partial streets: "This foot strip is dedicated as an easement for all utility purposes including storm and sanitary sewers and shall automatically become dedicated for street purposes when an insofar as a foot strip adjacent to it is so dedicated." (j) Reserves. Provisional one -foot reserve to be used along the side or end of streets that abut acreage tracts, as follows: "One -foot reserve dedicated to the public in fee as a buffer separation between the side or end of streets in subdivision plats where such streets abut adjacent acreage tracts, the condition of such dedication being that when the adjacent property is subdivided in a recorded plat, the one -foot reserve shall there -upon become vested in the public for street right -of -way purposes (and the fee title thereto shall revert to and rest in the dedicator, his heirs, assigns, or successors "). (k) Temporary Right -of -way. To be used to comply with Harris Road Law requiring minimum street width of 60 feet, as follows: "Cross- hatched strip feet wide to be 30 M 30728 -ldd temporarily dedicated for street purposes and will revert to the adjacent lot owners upon and to the extent of the acquisition of feet for street purposes on the opposite side of the street." (1) Street Names. (1) Proposed new names shall be submitted to the Director of Planning and Traffic for approval prior to the submittal of final plat. (2) Names shall be continuations of existing street names adjacent to or on line with proposed streets. (m) Engineering Data (Preliminary Plats to have approximate data) . (1) Streets. (i) Complete curve data (L, R, PC, PT) shown on center line or each side of street. Length and bearings of all tangents. (iii) Dimensions from all angle points and points of curve to an adjacent side lot line. (2) Lots: Complete bearings and dimensions for front, rear, and lot lines. (3) Water Courses and Easements. (i) Distances to be provided along the side lot lines from the front lot line to the point where the side line crosses the drainage easement line or the high bank of a stream. (ii) Traverse line to be provided along the edge of all large water courses in a convenient location, preferable along a utility easement if paralleling the drainage easement or stream. Sec. 27 -42. Sidewalks. Sidewalks shall be provided in all subdivisions and constructed as required by Chapter 26 of the.Code of Ordinances of the City'of Baytown, Texas. Sec. 27 -43. Lots. (a) The lot design of a neighborhood should provide for lots of adequate width and depth to provide open area and to eliminate over - crowding. Lots should be rectangular so far as practicable 31 30728 -lee and should have the side lot lines at right angles to the streets on which the lot faces or radial to curved street lines. Where the Commission approves a through lot, access to the rear of the lot shall be prohibited. (b) All lots shown on the plat'will be for residential purposes unless otherwise noted. (c) Side lot lines should be perpendicular or radial to street frontage and the following note may be in lieu of bearings: "All side lot lines are either perpendicular or radial to street frontage unless otherwise noted." (d) Rear and side driveway access to major thoroughfares shall be prohibited. (e) Double front lots are prohibited. (f) Minimum Lot Sizes. (1) 54 -foot width, unless otherwise approved. (2) 100 -foot depth, unless otherwise approved. (3) Radial lots to have minimum width of 40 feet at the building line. (4) Lot area minimum 5,400 square feet where served by sanitary sewers. (5) Corner lots are to be five (5) feet wider than the average interior lots in the block. (6) Corner lots with a width of less than 80 feet siding on a major thoroughfare shall be at least 15 feet wider than the average interior lots in the block. (7) Lots facing on a major thoroughfare shall be at least 10 feet deeper than average interior lot depths. (8) Lot width definition - average of front and rear lot dimensions. (9) Minimum usable lot depths for lots backing on natural drainage easements - 70 feet between front lot line and drainage easement. (10) Duplex lots - 3,000 square feet per unit. Two (2) off- street parking spaces should be provided per unit. Sec. 27 -44. Land to be Used for other Than Residential Purposes. (a) Reserves shall be labeled A, B, and C rather than numbered as blocks and lots. (b) Minimum building lines are to be provided for reserves. 32 30728 -1ff Sec. 27 -45. Numbering. (a) Blocks are to be numbered consecutively within the overall plat and /or sections of an overall plat as recorded. (b) All lots are to be numbered consecutively within each block. Lot numbering continues from block to block in a uniform manner that has been approved on an overall preliminary plat. Sec. 27 -46. Building Lines. (a) Residential. (1) Minimum 15 feet on front of all lots, 10 feet on side of corner lots, and 5 feet on side of interior lots. (2) Lots adjacent to major thoroughfares, minimum 35 -foot front building line when lots are facing or minimum 20 -foot side building line when lots are siding on thoroughfares. (b) Transitional building lines having a minimum angle of 45 degrees are to be provided where an offset in building lines is greater than 5 feet. Sec. 27 -47. Easements. (a) Drainage Easement. (1) Location and width to be determined by the City Engineer for plats within the city limits and the County Flood Control Engineer for plats outside the city or within the city adjacent to bayous or other major drainage facilities for which Flood Control is primarily responsible. (2) Easement for drainage adjacent to lots, tracts, or reserves shall be noted: "This easement shall be kept clear of fences, building, planting, and other obstructions to the operations and maintenance of drainage facility, and abutting property shall not be permitted to drain into this easement except by means of an approved drainage structure. (3) The dedication of any drainage structure or facility used for the retention or detention of storm water, shall be accepted only at the City's option. Final determination as to the acceptability shall be made by the Planning Commission after consideration of the 33 30728 -lgg City Engineering Department's evaluation and recommendation. The evaluation may be based on size, purpose and location of the facility; the need for fencing around the structure or facilities; ease of access for maintenance crews; and personnel, vehicles and equipment needed for maintenance. Consideration should also be given to other types of ownership of the structure or facility and alternative maintenance procedures. (b) Utility easements shall be in accordance with the Utility Location Standards, Ordinance 1764. (c) Platting of public streets or easements across private easements or fee strips. (1) A copy of the instrument establishing any private easement shall be submitted with the preliminary plat. (2) Easement boundaries must be tied by dimension to adjacent lot and tract corners. Where the private easement has no defined location or width an effort shall be made to reach agreement on a defined easement. Where no agreement can be reached, then pipe lines, electrical lines or other facilities shall be accurately located and tied to lot lines, and building setback lines shall be shown at a distance of ten feet from and parallel to the center line of the pipeline. (3) Prior to approval of the final plat, the developer or dedicator of any subdivision plat wherein public streets or easements are shown crossing private easement! or fee strips shall, by letter to the City Engineer, assume responsibility for seeing that any adjustments and protection of existing pipelines, electrical transmission lines, or other facilities shall be planned and provided for to the satisfaction of the holder of the private easements or fee strips and the City Engineer prior to the filing of the plat for record. (4) Prior to filing of the final plat for record, the following requirements shall be met: 34 30728 -lhh (i) The 6cveloper or dedicator of any plat shall obtain from the holder of any private easement or fee strip within the plat crossed by proposed streets or other public easements an instrument granting to the public the use of said public streets or easements over and across said private easements or fee strips for construction, operation, and maintenance of those public facilities normally using the type of public streets and easements indicated. This instrument shall be delivered to the Director of Planning and Traffic to be filed for record along with the plat. (ii) The developer shall furnish the Director of Planning and Traffic with a letter from the holder of the private easements or fee strips in question stating that arrangements in pipelines, electric transmission lines, or other similar facilities have been made to the satisfaction of the holder of the easement. Sec. 27 -48. Parks and Playground Sites. (a) Park and playground sites shall be reserved as indicated on the Park Plan. Size shall be in accordance with the Park and Recreation Advisory Board's plan for the park system. (b) Park sites within the city limits may be purchased, or a contract to purchase may be negotiated by the city prior to the submission of the final plat. If not, the subdivider shall not be required to reserve the land for such purpose except at his option. (c) It is requested, but not required, that park sites outside the city be reserved for two years for purchase at the developer's cost plus prorated cost of improvements. Sec. 27 -49. Survey Requirements. (a) Monuments, consisting of three - quarter inch iron rod, or larger, thirty -six inches in length, shall be placed at all corners of the block lines, the point of intersection of curves and tangents of the subdivision, flush with finished grade. (b) One bench mark for each five acres of property or fraction thereof shall be permanently installed in an approved manner, with 35 30728 -1ii their location and the elevation as shown on the plat. Permanent bench marks shall be five foot long concrete posts 6" in diameter with the top to be at least 12" below finish grade. (c) Lot markers shall be one -half inch metal rods, at least twenty -four (24) inches in length, placed at each corner of all lots, flush with the average ground elevation, or they may be countersunk, if necessary, to avoid being disturbed. 36 30728 -ljj ARTICLE V. OTHER DUTIES OF SUBDIVIDERS Sec. 27 -51. Payment for Required Improvements. The subdivider shall pay all cost for providing the subdivision with streets, water, sanitary sewer, storm sewer, street lights, and street markers, in accordance with the requirements of the subdivision ordinance and in accordance with plans and specifications for such improvements approved by the appropriated City or County Agencies. All improvements required in a subdivision will be installed at the developer's cost unless otherwise provided. The cost of utilities and /or streets which are required by the city to be larger than would normally be needed to serve the proposed addition may be partially reimbursed. If reimbursement is made, the reimbursal amount may be the difference between the cost of the facilities that would be adequate to serve the addition and the cost of the facilities required by the city. A reimbursement contract will be negotiated between the City Council and the developer. Sec. 27 -52. Construction of Improvements. The subdivider may award the contract for the installation of the approved improvements and make payment directly to the contractor, or as an alternate a subdivider may present the approved plans and specifications for the approved improvements to the City Council and the City Council may advertise for bids and award the contract, and the subdivider shall pay to the city the cost of the contract. Sec. 27 -53. Inspection. The subdivider or his contractor shall notify the City Engineer when installation of all approved improvements commences. The installation of such improvements shall take place under the inspection of the City Engineer or his field representative. Except that the City Engineer may choose not to inspect developments totally outside the planning area. Sec. 27 -54. As -built or Record.Plans. The subdivider shall present to the City Engineer reproducible and complete as -built plans for all paving, drainage structures, water lines, and sewer lines prior to final inspection. As -built or record plans shall be prepared by a registered engineer in a form acceptable to the Engineering Department. The as -built or record plans shall be delivered to the City Engineer prior to the filing of the plat or the release of any performance documents. 30728 -lkk Sec. 27 -55. Final Acceptance. The subdivider shall request, in writing, the final inspection of completed improvements. Upon receipt of this request, the City Engineer shall approve in writing all improvements when they are in accordance with approved plans and specifications. Sec. 27 -56. Guarantee. The subdivider or developer shall guarantee that all materials and workmanship in connection with the improvements required, under this chapter, are free of defects for a period of one year after acceptance of the improvements by the City Engineer. The subdivider or developer, if using construction contractors for furnishing the materials and /or installing the improvements required under this chapter shall require that all contracts include such a guarantee. In the event that the subdivider fails to perform the necessary work to correct defects during the guarantee period, the city will make necessary repairs and bill the subdivider for the total cost of the repair work. Sec. 27 -57. Governmental Liens. When it is determined that a governmental lien is outstanding against any parcel proposed for development, it shall be the responsibility of the applicant to satisfy this lien prior to the filing of the plat. These liens shall include, but not be limited to, paving, tax, mowing or special assessments. Sec. 27 -58. Traffic Control Devices. All pavement marking and signing required under this Chapter shall be in conformance with the Texas Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices. Sec. 27 -59. Cluster Box Mail Service Locations. U.S. Postal Service policies require that cluster locations to serve developments be provided. These locations shall be within street rights -of -way whenever possible. Commercial location may necessitate on site location for this purpose. All slab locations required under this section shall be in conformance with Postal Service specifications, and provided by the developer 38 30728 -111 ARTICLE VI. MISCELLANEOUS Sec. 27 -61. Flood -prone Area Requirements. (a) Development of flood -prone areas is prohibited except as permitted by this chapter and Chapter 12 1/2 (Flood Hazard Area Regulations). (b) Subdivision of flood -prone areas is prohibited where the cost of providing utilities and governmental services would pose an unreasonable economic burden. (c) The location, elevation, and construction of all utilities and facilities, such as sewer, gas, electrical, and water systems and streets shall be in such manner as to minimize or eliminate damage by flooding. (d) Adequate drainage shall be provided as to reduce the community's exposure to flood hazards with respect to adjacent, upstream and downstream developments. (e) No platted residential lot shall be approved that does not contain a suitable building site of sufficient elevation to permit construction utilizing a first floor elevation above the level of the 100 -year flood. Sec. 27 -62. Variances for this Chapter. (a) The Commission may authorize a variance from these regulations when, in its opinion, undue hardship will result from requiring strict compliance. In granting a variance, the Commission shall prescribe any condition or conditions that it deg- necessary or desirable considering the public interest; in making the findings hereinbelow required, the Commission shall take into consideration the following: (1) The nature of the proposed use of the land involved and existing uses of land in the vacinity; (2) The number of persons who will reside or work in the proposed subdivision. (3) The probable effect of such variances upon traffic conditions and upon the public health, safety, convenience, and welfare of the vacinity; (4) Any and all other facts the Commission may deem relevant. 39 30728 -1mm (b) No variance shall be granted unless the Commission finds: (1) That there are special circumstances or conditions affecting the land involved such that the strict application of this chapter would deprive the applicant of the reasonable use of his land; and (2) That the granting of the variance will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, welfare, or be injurious to other property in the area; and (3) That the granting of the variance will not have the effect of preventing the orderly subdivision of other land in the area in accordance with the provisions of this chapter. Such findings of the Commission, together with the specified facts upon which such findings are based shall be incorporated into the official minutes of the Commission meeting at which such variance is granted. Variances may be granted only when in harmony with the general purpose and intent of this chapter so that the public health, safety, and welfare may be secure and substantial justice done. Pecuniary hardship to the subdivider, standing alone, shall not be deemed to constitute hardship requiring variance hereunder. (c) No variance shall be granted as to required improvements, minimum lot sizes, flood hazard area regulations, bond require- ments, or utilization; provided, however, that a variance may be granted for drainage improvements in subdivisions located wholly outside the city limits by the Commission. (d) Variances may be granted as to all required improvements in subdivisions located wholly outside the city and its planning area, but within its extra - territorial jurisdiction, provided that said subdivision complies with the minimum standards set by the appropriate county governing body. (e) This action shall not relieve the developer from meeting the 100 -year storm runoff requirements. (f) All request for a variance shall be submitted in writing to the Planning Commission with preliminary approval. The request shall state why the developer feels his project meets the variance requireme 40 30728 -1nn Sec. 27 -63. Utilization. No building permit shall be issued until the City Engineer has stated in writing their acceptance of the subdivision improvements as provided in Section 27 -55, and the plat of the subdivision has been filed. Sec. 27 -64. Small Subdivisions. (a) Defined. A small subdivision is a subdivision of twelve or fewer lots. (b) Platting Procedure. (1) Submission. Application for preliminary approval shall be made by the owner or his authorized agent and shall be made on a form prescribed by the city planning staff. Applications shall be accompanied by a filing fee and accompanied by the following information: Fifteen (15) copies of the preliminary development plan of the entire development drawn to scale and showing streets or drives, utility easements, lots, and major landscaping features. A boundary survey or a certified boundary description by a registered engineer or licensed surveyor shall also be submitted. (2) Filing fee. All applications for small subdivisions shall be accompanied by $20.00 filing fee. (3) Commission approval. The Commission shall examine such application and determine whether it conforms to all applicable criteria and standards. (c) General standards. The developer of a small subdivision must comply in all respects with the Engineering and Construction Standards for Subdivisions established by this chapter except as provided by subsection (d) hereof. (d) Variances for small subdivisions. The Commission may grant a variance from these regulations when in its opinion undue hardship will result from requiring strict compliance. The variance may be granted ONLY for curbs, gutter, drainage storm sewers, sidewalks, and street widths (but not less than 26 feet of concrete). No variance may be granted on sidewalks if they will connect to existing sidewalks. 41 30728 -loo ARTICLE VII. ENGINEERING AND CONSTRUCTION STANDARDS FOR SUBDIVISIONS Sec. 27 -71. Streets. All streets will be reinforced concrete pavement on a compacted stabilized subgrade. Concrete pavement shall be provided with either an integral curb poured with the pavement or a separate curb constructed on top of, and doweled to, the concrete pavement. (a) Grade and Width (1) Grade: Gutter gradients shall be a minimum of one - quarter (1/4) of one percent. Crown sections shall slope not less than one - eighth (1/8) inch per foot. The minimum drop around curb return will be one -tenth (1/10) of one (1) foot. All gutter grades shall be above the design water surface of ditches and storm sewers. All grade changes with algebraic differences of one (1 %) percent or more shall be connected with a vertical curve. (2) Width: Minimum width back to back of curb of streets and right -of -way shall be as follows: Major Streets Collector Streets Residential or Minor Streets (b) Pavement Design Street Right -of -Way Width Width 60' 80' - 100' 39' 60' 29' 50' Pavement design shall conform to the following general requirements. References are made to Texas Highway Department "Standard Specifications for Road and Bridge Construction" adopted by the State Highway Department of Texas, January 3, 1972. (1) Concrete Pavement: Concrete pavement shall conform to the requirements of Item 360 Texas Highway Department, Standard Specification. Concrete pavement shall have a minimum thickness of six (6) inches for Residential and Residential Collector Streets and a minimum thickness of seven (7) inches for Commercial Collections, and Major Streets. Concrete 42 30728 -1pp pavement shall be reinforced with 3/8 -inch deformed bars for 6" concrete pavement and 1/2" deformed bars for 7" concrete pavement and twenty -four (24 ") inches center to center each way. (2) Subgrade for Concrete Pavement: All subgrades for concrete pavement shall be at least 6" in depth and compacted to or meet the requirements of 95% standard proctor density. The subgrade shall be lime stabilized when the plasticity index of the subgrade exceeds 19. The rate of application of lime should be 22 pounds per square yard. Compaction shall be accomplished by the use of approved and acceptable compacting equipment and testing shall be performed by a testing laboratory as approved by the City Engineer. (c) Curb and Gutter: Curb and combination curb and gutter shall be constructed of reinforced concrete. Cross section and shapes shall conform to standards on file with the City Engineer. Sec. 27 -72. Drainage and Storm Sewers. Adequate drainage shall be provided within the limits of the subdivision. The protection of adjoining property will be considered in the review of the plans submitted. (a) Size: Sizing of inlets, storm sewers, outfalls, culverts, any drainage ditches will be based on the following: (1) Design Storm: The design storm will be based on the rainfall intensity - frequency data used by the Harris County Flood Control District. The interior drainage system will be designed for a storm with a frequency of occurrence of once in five years. The intensity of a 60- minute rainfall on this frequency is 2.80 inches. Major drainage ditches and structures will be designed for a storm with a frequency of occurrence of once in 25 years. The intensity of a 60- minute rainfall on this frequency is 3.75 inches. (2) Runoff Computation: To determine the runoff rates for various areas, the standard rational method will be used, utilizing the Formula Q = CIA, 43 30728 -lqq where Q = rate of runoff in cubic feet per second, C = runoff coefficient, I = rainfall intensity for the particular duration in inches per hour, A = drainage area in acres. Drainage areas will be arrived at by considering location of high and low points on street grades, drainage divides in area, and general configuration of existing and finishing grades. Calculations for each major storm sewer line shall be shown on a "drainage data sheet" and shall be included in the proposed plans. All pertinent information (i.e., drainage areas, time of concentration, rainfall intensity, runoff coefficients, etc.) shall be listed on the data sheet. (3) Sizing of Storm Sewers: Sewers shall be sized to carry the discharge (Q) derived from the above formula. Capacity of storm sewers will be determined by the use of Mannings formula on the basis of hydraulic gradients rather than the physical slope of the pipe.' (4) Sizing and Spacing of Inlets: Inlets shall be spaced so that maximum travel distance of water in a gutter will not exceed 600 feet unless otherwise approved at all low points in the gutter gradient. Inlets will be sized using an allowable capacity of one (1) cubic foot per second per foot of opening for a throat height of five inches. Inlet design shall conform to standards on file with the City Engineer. (b) Design: Design of storm sewers, outfalls, culverts, and drainage ditches will conform to the following requirements: (1) Manholes: Manholes (inlets or junction boxes) shall be provided at all changes in grade or alignment, sewer intersections, street intersections, and at a minimum of 1,000 feet on straight lines. Design of manholes shall follow acceptable engineering practice, and shall be constructed of reinforced concrete sections in accordance with ASTM C -478 and /or clay brick conforming to the latest Rev. of ASTM C -32, Grade MM, and /or concrete brick conforming to the latest revision of ASTM C -55, Grade G -11. 44 30728 -lrr (2) Pipe: Pipe for storm sewers shall be concrete pipe in sizes as shown on the approved plans. All pipe shall be reinforced concrete pipe (RCP) conforming to the latest revision of ASTM C -76, Class III. Where, in the opinion of the City Engineer, added strength of pipe is needed for traffic loads over minimum cover or for excessive height of backfill, concrete pipe shall be ASTM C -76, Class IV or V. Abestos bonded or bituminous coated corrugated galvanized metal pipe (CGMP) may be used in the place of reinforced concrete pipe, provided such use is in accordance with the Texas Department of Highways and Public Transportation Standard Specifications for Construction of Highways, Streets and Bridges, Item 460. The gauge of the pipe used, however, shall be the next heavier gauge than the minimum required by Item 460. The use of corrugated galvanized metal pipe under streets is prohibited. Pipe shall have a minimum cover of not less than one (1) foot over the top of the pipe. (3) Ditches: Drainage ditches, when required, may be used for outfalls to natural or major drainage channels. The City Engineer, or the Flood Control District, may require that drainage ditches be used for outfalls to natural or major drainage channels when the use of such ditches will improve drainage of the development. Ditches shall have a minimum grade of not less than 0.10 percent and side slopes not steeper than 3:1. (4) Outfalls: Outfalls from sewers and ditches into natural drainage ways shall enter at a grade of the natural drainage channel. If necessary, drop- type outfall structures shall be used to prevent erosion. (5) Major Drainage Ways and Structures: Design of major drainage ways shall be coordinated and approved in writing by the appropriate Flood Control District or County Engineer. (6) All drainage improvements shall be designed to ensure that when a 100 -year rainfall event (as defined by Harris County Flood Control District) occurs, the drainage from the planned subdivision will not increase 45 30728 -1ss the water level in any existing creek, stream, or bayou above the water level previously associated with such 100 -year rainfall event. (c) Construction: Construction of all storm sewers, outfalls, culverts, and drainage ditches will conform to the City Engineer's specifications or the appropriate Flood Control specifications. Sec. 27 -73. Water and Sewer System. The developer may be required to submit a letter to the City Engineer from the Department of Health Resources approving the water and sanitary sewerage systems. Such letter will serve as certifications of water and sewerage system by the Department of Health Resources. The developers of the subdivision shall provide all water and sewer lines necessary to properly serve the subdivision. A metalized plastic tape located directly above all underground piping a minimum of one foot below grade and a minimum of two foot above the pipe shall be required. (a) Sanitary Sewer System (1) Materials: materials: Sanitary sewer lines shall be of the following (i) Vitrified clay pipe and fittings conforming the latest revision of ASTM C -700, with compression joints conforming to the latest revision of ASTM C -425, or ASTM C -594. Extra strength shall be used as required by the City Engineer. (ii) Acrylonitrile - Butadiene - Styrene (ABS) Composit Sewer Piping and fittings conforming to the latest revision of ASTM D -2680. (iii) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) and fittings conforming to the latest revision of ASTM D -30341 and ASTM D -1784, having a cell classification of 12454 -B and SDR -35 pipe shall have flexible elastomeric gasket joints approved by the City Engineer. (2) Construction: Sanitary sewers shall be constructed according to the latest revision of ASTM C -12, ASTM D -2321 and the City Engineer's specifications as to trenching, bedding, alignment, grade, instal- lation, backfill, and compaction. 46 30728 -1tt (3) Manholes: Manholes shall be spaced a distance not to exceed 500 feet and shall conform to the City Engineer's specifications. Manholes shall be constructed of precast reinforced concrete manhole sections in accordance with the latest revision of ASTM C -478 or of fiberglass in accordance with the City Engineer's specifications. Manhole rings and covers shall be 23 1/2" in diameter, be constructed of cast iron and have a minimum of two 3/4" holes in the covers. (4) Force Mains: Force mains shall be constructed of the following materials: (i) Cast iron pipe conforming to the latest revision of ASA A -21 encased in polyethylene tubing. (ii) Asbestos - cement pipe conforming to the latest revision of AWWA C -400, Class 100, with cast iron fittings conforming to the latest revision of ASA A- 21.11, and ASA A- 21.10, pressure class. (iii) Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) Class 160 SDR -261 conforming to the latest revision of ASTM D -2241. (5) Lift Stations: Lift stations should conform to minimum design criteria of the Department of Health Resources. An all weather access road, three phase service and potable water shall be provided. All structures located above ground shall be enclosed as approved by the City Engineer. (6) Testing: All sanitary sewer lines shall be tested in accordance with the City Engineer's specifications. All material, labor, and equipment necessary for testing shall be provided by the developer. All test results shall be submitted in writing to the City Engineer. (b) Water System (1) Materials: All pipe and fittings shall be approved by the American Water Works Association for carrying potable water. Water lines shall be constructed of the following materials. (i) Asbestos cement pipe and fittings conforming to the latest revision of AWWA C -400, Class 150, and ASTM C -296. 47 30728 -luu (ii) Polyvinyl Choloride and Fittings conforming to the latest revision of AWWA C -900, Class 160. (iii) Cast iron fittings shall conform to the latest revision of ASA A -21.10 and ASA A- 21.11. (2) Valves: All valves shall conform to the latest revisions of AWWA C -500 and open left. All valves shall be provided with an approved adjustable valve box and cover. At intersections of water distribution lines, the number of valves will be one less than the number of radiating lines. (3) Hydrants: All fire hydrants shall be Mueller improved or approved Equal meeting latest revision of AWWA 502. Hydrants shall be 3 -way with National Standard threading. Hydrants shall be located on six (6) inch or larger lines, looped with (6) inch or larger lines. Hydrants shall be spaced every 300 feet along access ways in commercial and industrial areas and every 600 feet along streets in residential areas in a manner acceptable to the Fire Department so that every building within the city limits will be within 500 feet radius of a standard city fire hydrant. There shall be a gate valve between the main and the fire hydrant. (4) Size: All water mains shall be a minimum of six (6) inches in diameter except where approved by the City Engineer. (5) Construction: Water lines shall be constructed according to the City Engineer's specifications as to trenching, bedding, alignment, grade, installation, backfill and compaction. (6) Testing: Bacterial analysis samples shall be taken by the Public Works Department before the new water system is connected to existing city lines. All water lines shall be tested in accordance with the City Engineer's specifications. All materials, labor and equipment necessary for testing shall be provided by the developer. All tests shall be submitted in writing to the City Engineer. 48 30728 -lvv Sec. 27 -74. Street Lights. Developers shall be required to install ornamental metal standard and high pressure sodium vapor lamps on public streets in subdivisions within the city limits as follows: (a) The location and minimum number of street lights stall be determined by the Director of Planning and Traffic. A developer may appeal the determination of the Director of Planning and Traffic to City Council if the developer wishes to install a lesser number of street lights. (b) Underground installation charges for the subdivision shall be based on cost to Houston Light & Power and shall be paid to the City by the developer. Any other charges related to the installation of street lights shall be paid by the developer. Upon payment of all installation charges, the City will pay the monthly service for the street light. (c) Street lights shall be located so as.to be of general benefit to the surrounding neighborhood. (d) A developer commits an offense if he intentionally or knowingly fails to pay for street lighting as required and approved by the Director of Planning and Traffic within 30 days after notice by the Director of Planning and Traffic that electrical power service is available for street lighting. (e) For those subdivisions where citizens would like additional street lighting, the following shall be in effect for mid -block locations. (1) The requestor shall be responsible to Houston Lighting and Power for all installation charges. (2) When the electrical service is provided at the rear of properties, the requestor shall be responsible for providing the required easement to the street. (f) When additional street lighting is requested at intersections, the city will provide only the monthly charge for the light. All installation charges shall be the responsibility of the requestor. Requests for additional street lighting at either mid -block locations or intersections shall be made to the Director of Planning and Traffic, who shall consider the benefit of the street light to the surrounding area, the cost of service of the street light to M 30728 -lww the city, and any other factors he deems necessary to approve or disapprove the request. The decision of the Director of Planning and Traffic may be appealed to City Council by the requestor. Sec. 27 -75. Street Name Signs. Street name signs approved and installed by the Director of Planning and Traffic shall be provided by the developer for all intersections in the subdivision. Sec. 27 -76. Utility Location Standards. Developers and utility companies will be required to locate utility lines within easements in accordance with City of Baytown Utility Location Standards. These standards are on file with the City Clerk and City Engineer. M