Title
Ordinance To Amend And Re-Enact The Zoning Ordinance Of The City Of Hampton, Virginia by Amending Section 9-43 Entitled “Development Standards” Pertaining to the Front Yard Setback, Height, and Garage Location in the Infill Housing Overlay
Purpose
Background Statement:
Within Chapter 9 of the zoning ordinance is Article V, which deals with the Infill Housing Overlay. Staff is proposing changes to Section 9-43, entitled “Development Standards”, to change the height requirement, front yard setback, garage location, and it also creates a façade zone. Staff has noticed that variances have become necessary because some the current standards are in conflict with one another. For example, it is almost impossible for smaller lots with a small front yard setback to meet all of the requirements for facade design, front yard green area, and parking.
In recognizing the flaw with the ordinance being too restrictive, staff is proposing to change the setback line from a build-to line to the start of a ten (10) foot façade zone. Instead of 50% of the width of the structure being on the front setback line, now 50% of the width of the structure must be within the façade zone. Having a façade zone permits structures to be pushed back an additional ten (10) feet, allowing for more front yard in order to meet the parking requirements, green area requirements, and potentially still have room for a porch. Making the requirement relate to the width of the façade zone rather than the home also allows for flexibility with the design of the front of the home.
The main entry door is currently required to be on the front most façade of a proposed residential structure under the infill housing overlay. This has created a number of homes that have a similar look, instead of the variety that we typically seen throughout the city. Staff is proposing to allow the front door on other areas of the home that are within the proposed façade zone. With the allowance for flexibility of ...
Click here for full text