[CHAPTER 1165- Landscaping WORKING DRAFT v1.pdf]
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
CHAPTER 1165
Landscaping
1165.01 Purposes.
1165.02 General Standards
1165.03 Plant Location Guidelines
1165.04 Plant Selection Requirements
1165.05 Minimum Plant Size.
1165.06 Tree Lawns.
1165.07 Buffer Zones.
1165.08 Parking Area Landscaping.
1165.09 Alternative Landscaping Plan.
1165.01 PURPOSES.
The purposes of the landscaping requirements set forth in this Chapter are to:
• Enhance Community Aesthetics: Promote high-quality development that improves
the visual character of the City, frames views, enhances building facades, and
maintain a coordinated, year-round color palette.
• Provide Functional Buffering: Mitigate potential land-use conflicts by requiring
effective visual and acoustic screening between different zoning districts and along
public rights-of-way.
• Improve Site Functionality: Define vehicular and pedestrian circulation systems,
provide shade for large paved surfaces, and screen service areas, utilities, and
loading zones from public view.
1165.02 GENERAL STANDARDS
All required buffers, screens, berms and street lawns shall comply with the following
standards in addition to all other applicable requirements of this section:
1) All plant materials shall be hardy to Cuyahoga County and free of disease and
insects.
2) Artificial plant material shall not be used within any required landscaped area. This
shall not preclude the use of stone, shredded bark, wood chips, pine needles or
similar accent materials within planting beds.
3) All plant material, screens and berms shall not to alter drainage patterns on the site
or adjacent properties or to obstruct vision for safety of ingress or egress.
4) All plant material shall not cause damage to utility lines (above and below ground)
and public roadways.
5) The overall landscape plan shall not contain more than 33% of any one plant
species.
1165.03 PLANTING LOCATION GUIDELINES
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
Any front or side yard area visible from a public right-of-way shall incorporate an
appropriate combination of canopy trees, shrubs or ornamental trees, planting beds, and
living ground cover. Landscaping layouts shall be customized to meet the following distinct
planning objectives based on their specific land-use setting.
1165.03.A Industrial settings.
Focus on framing views, defining site boundaries, providing clear visual cues within
circulation systems, and screening utilities, on-site storage, loading zones, and mechanical
areas. Designs should prioritize providing shade and spatial definition to large, paved
surfaces.
1165.03.B. Commercial and Mixed-Use settings.
Focus on framing views, defining site boundaries, providing intentional visual cues within
vehicular and pedestrian circulation systems, and screening utilities and service areas
from public view.
1165.03.C Suburban Residential settings.
Enhance building facades and parking areas, define primary property entrances,
demarcate usable outdoor private spaces, and provide soft, natural screening from
adjacent residences where appropriate.
1165.03.D Rural Residential settings.
Prioritize the preservation and enhancement of existing natural vegetation and wildlife
habitats, while protecting unique, native site features.
1165.04 PLANT SELECTION REQUIREMENTS
1165.04.A General Standards.
To ensure successful establishment, minimal maintenance, and maximum environmental
value, all proposed landscaping plans must adhere to the following selection criteria:
1. Invasive Species Prohibition.
Any invasive species is prohibited. Refer to the Ohio Dept of Agriculture Invasive Plants list
and the Ohio Invasive Plants Council plant list to ensure compliance.
2. Natives are preferred.
Goal of up to 50% native species must be utilized within each of the following groups:
Shade Trees, Ornamental Trees, Shrubs, and Flowering Plants. The count is by species
type, not plant quantity.
3. Grasses Exemption.
Grasses and ornamental grasses need not be native.
4. Environmental Tolerance.
Landscape plans should prioritize salt-tolerant, drought-resistant, and deer-resistant
species.
5. Coordinated Color Palette.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
High priority is placed on a coordinated color palette that can produce colors throughout
the year. Preferred colors being Orange, Yellow, and Red. Species should be mixed together
so those colors can be continuously represented across changing seasons.
1165.05 MINIMUM PLANTS SIZE.
Table 1165.05-1
Plant Type
Minimum Size
Deciduous canopy tree caliper
2.5 inch caliper
Deciduous ornamental tree
2.5 inch caliper
Evergreen tree
7 feet in height
Deciduous shrub
24 inches in height
Upright evergreen shrub
24 inches in height
Spreading evergreen shrub
24 inch spread
1165.06 STREET LAWN.
Table 1165.06 Street Lawn Landscaping
B1
B2
B3
B4
Limited Industry
Mixed A, C, D
Depth
10 ft
20 ft
10 ft
10 ft
10 ft
Setback Depth
Canopy Tree
1 tree + 1 per 75 feet
1 tree + 1 per 50 feet
1 tree + 1 per 75 feet
Shrubs
6 per 50 feet
6 per 50 feet
Design
Street lawn landscaping need not be evenly spaced.
Clustering of trees and planting beds is encouraged to provide a more aesthetic and natural appearance.
Landscaping shall be located so it does not obstruct the vision of drivers entering or exiting a site.
1165.07 BUFFERS.
1165.07A. Buffer Requirements.
When a parcel abuts and different zoning district, that parcel shall provide landscaped
buffering meeting the requirements of Table 1165.04-1 and 1165.04-2.
Table 1165.07-1 Buffers
Zoning
District
Buffers Required Adjacent To:
One or Two
Family District
Multiple
Residence
District
Residential
Cluster District
Senior
Residence
District
All Other
Districts
B1
B
C
B
B
D
B2
B
C
B
B
D
B3
A
A
A
A
D
B4
A
B
B
B
D
LI
E
E
E
E
C
Table 1165.07-2 Buffer Requirements
Requirements (Plant quantities
required per 100 linear feet of
property line)
Buffer Zones
A
B
C
D
E
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
Minimum depth
30 ft
20 ft
10 ft
10 ft
30 ft
Canopy trees
1
2
2
May vary based
upon existing
conditions and
abutting land
use.
3
Ornamental trees
3
3
2
3
Evergreen trees
5
3
2
5
Shrubs
10
6
4
10
1165.07.B Buffering Modifications.
The reviewing authority may authorize a modification to the requirements of Table 1165.04-
2 upon a finding that:
1. The modification is necessary due to unique site conditions, such as existing topography
or utilities;
2. The proposed modification maintains the intended visual and acoustic screening; or
3. The applicant provides documentation that the modification provides equal or superior
screening compared to the standard requirement.
1165.07.C Existing Vegetation Alternative.
The planting quantities may be reduce to preserve existing healthy vegetation that exists
within the buffer area, subject to the approval of the reviewing authority.
1165.07.D Fencing Alternative.
Where a property is required to provide a buffer as set forth in Table 1165.04-1, the Planning
Director may approve the installation of a solid privacy fence in lieu of a portion of the
required landscape buffer, subject to the following criteria:
1. The fence shall be a permanent, opaque six-foot privacy fence;
2. The fence shall be located no less than five (5) feet from the property line; and
3. Upon the approval of a six-foot privacy fence, the required depth of the buffer zone may
be reduced by up to 50% of the requirement set forth in Table 1165.07-2.
1165.08 PARKING AREA LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS.
Table 1165.08-1 Parking Area Landscaping Requirements
Requirement Type
Standards
Perimeter screening trees
1 tree per 30 feet
Perimeter screening shrubs
15 shrubs per 30 feet.
Interior parking area landscaping
For every 20 spaces, area equal to 1 space
Interior parking area shade trees
1 per 16 spaces
1165.09 ALTERNATIVE LANDSCAPING PLAN.
The reviewing authority may approve an Alternative Landscape Plan, provided the plan is
prepared and sealed by a registered Landscape Architect.
---
[CHAPTER 1137 - Commercial and Industrial Districts.pdf]
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
CHAPTER 1137
Commercial and Industrial Districts
1137.01 Commercial and Industrial District Purposes.
1137.02 District-Specific Performance Standards
1137.03 Uses.
1137.04 Spatial Requirements.
1137.05 Accessory Uses and Structures.
1137.01 COMMERCIAL AND INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT PURPOSES.
1137.01. A - B1 Local Business Zone (B1)
The B-1 Local Business District is established to provide a convenient location for essential
goods and services catering to residents of nearby neighborhoods. This district is typically
characterized by mature, smaller-scale business uses situated on narrow lots with varied
setbacks. To ensure harmony with the surrounding community, the code mandates that
development remains low-intensity and aesthetically compatible with the abutting
residential character, specifically limiting building height to a maximum of 25 feet or two
stories. The district promotes pedestrian accessibility and a "human scale" environment.
1137.01. B- B2 Office Service Zone (B2)
The B-2 Office/Service District is applied to areas in transition, primarily shifting from
residential to office and service uses while maintaining compatibility with the surrounding
residential character. This district is characterized by a mixture of low-to-mid density
residential (including single-family homes converted for office use), low-intensity retail,
and institutional uses.
1137.01. C - B3 General Business Zone (B3)
The B-3 General Business District is established to accommodate a diverse range of retail
and service uses that serve the broader needs of the community, the region, and the
motoring public. This district is specifically designed for larger-scale operations that may
not be appropriate in other business zones, such as large-format retailers and auto-related
businesses. Because B-3 districts are typically situated along high-traffic corridors, the
zoning code emphasizes strict access management standards to ensure vehicular and
pedestrian safety. To maintain harmony with nearby neighborhoods, the district mandates
significant buffering and screening. Development standards in this zone allow for a more
intense scale than other business districts, permitting building heights up to 60 feet or five
stories.
1137.01. D - B4 Mixed Use Business (B4)
The B-4 Mixed-use Business District is a Town Center scale development district,
established to promote the redevelopment of North Olmsted’s core into a compact,
walkable town center that aligns with the city’s vision for a vibrant and sustainable
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
neighborhood. This district is intended to foster a harmonious blend of moderate-density
housing and small-scale non-residential uses, such as offices and retail, while ensuring
the scale and character remain compatible with nearby residential areas
1137.01. E - Mixed Use A (MUA)
The Mixed Use District A is a Regional Commercial scale development district established
to promote high-intensity commercial activity with the city's general welfare and aesthetic
character. Development standards within this zone permit a more intensive scale than
standard business districts, allowing for office buildings and hotels up to seven stories in
height and accommodating a wide range of permitted uses such as professional offices,
hospitals, restaurants, and health clubs. While primarily focused on commercial and
service-oriented sectors, the district also allows for the conditional integration of multiple-
family and senior housing, fostering a physically and functionally integrated environment
that supports diverse economic and social needs.
1137.01. F - Mixed Use C (MUC)
The Mixed Use District C is an institutional and residential district, established to regulate
the location and design of buildings. Its overarching purpose is to promote high standards
of exterior appearance. This district permits a variety of public, institutional, and residential
uses by right, including community centers, cultural facilities, libraries, parks, and one- and
two-family dwellings. Additionally, more intensive uses, such as business and professional
offices, hospitals, and primary schools, are allowed as conditional uses to ensure they are
compatible with the specific site design and the general welfare of the community. To
maintain neighborhood compatibility, the district requires appropriate setback when
abutting standard residence districts, and mandates that all utilities be installed
underground.
1137.01. G - Mixed Use D (MUD)
The Mixed Use District D is a commercial and residential district established to regulate the
design and promote high standards of exterior appearance. To accomplish this intent, each
development area within the district is specifically required to include uses from at least
two principal categories, fostering a functional integration of activities. Permitted uses
include a wide variety of sectors such as multiple-family and senior housing, professional
offices, hospitals, and retail establishments up to 10,000 square feet.
1137.01. H - Residential Office (RO)
The Residential Office District is established to create areas where residential uses and
small-scale office or professional service establishments can coexist, primarily serving as
a transition zone between established neighborhoods and more intensive non-residential
uses. The district's purpose is to maintain a residential appearance, scale, and density,
ensuring that permitted activities do not generate noise or traffic that would negatively
impact adjoining residential properties. To uphold this character, the code requires that all
structures be designed to a residential scale and proportion, incorporating features such
as natural construction materials (brick or stone), roof lines with vertical elements like
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
chimneys or gables, and residential-quality windows. Furthermore, to protect local streets,
any building used for non-residential purposes must have access from or front onto a
collector or arterial street. Restricted dimensional standards further define the district,
including a maximum building height of 35 feet
1137.01. I - Limited Industry (LI)
The Limited Industry District is established to provide a dedicated location for light
industrial activities that benefit from proximity to the interstate highway system, ensuring
accessibility for a large regional labor force and consumers. Its primary objectives are to
promote the city's economic development by offering convenient and sufficient districts for
industrial operations while simultaneously protecting nearby residential areas. To maintain
harmony with the surrounding community, the district restricts the types of permitted uses,
mandates significant buffering, and enforces strict performance standards designed to
prohibit or minimize noise, vibrations, and other objectionable environmental influences.
1137.01. J - Mall Area Mixed-Use Overlay (MAMU)
The Mall Area Mixed Use Overlay District is established to promote the redevelopment of
the area within and around the Great Northern Mall into a compact, mixed-use, and
walkable neighborhood that functions as a vibrant community hub. Its overarching purpose
to encourage the reuse of existing buildings and underutilized parking areas for more
efficient land use patterns. By increasing the density of residential and commercial
activities, the district seeks to increase retail, restaurant, entertainment activity, while
providing a variety of housing types for residents at different stages of life and income
levels. Additionally, the overlay mandates high standards for building quality and
streetscape design to foster a unique sense of identity, improves multi-modal
transportation safety to increase transit use, and incorporates sustainable, green
infrastructure practices.
1137.02 DISTRICT-SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
1137.02.A - Ground Floor Uses.
The front half of the ground floor usable floor area of buildings in the B3, B4 and MAMU
districts shall be restricted to the following permitted uses: General retail, Banks and
financial institutions, Bars, taverns, lounges and night clubs, Restaurant, Table Service,
Restaurant, Fast food (without drive-through), Microbreweries, Indoor commercial
recreation, Theaters and assembly halls, Cultural facilities such as museums and art
centers. Other allowed uses in the district may be considered in the front half of the ground
floor usable floor area by Conditional Use permit.
1137.02.B - Mall Area Mixed Use Overlay Applicability
The regulations and standards set forth in the MAMU shall apply to all new construction,
site development, and redevelopment of existing structures within the overlay boundary.
For the purpose of this section, 'redevelopment' shall include any expansion, renovation, or
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
alteration that affects 50 percent or more of the gross floor area, as determined by the
review authority.
1137.03 USES.
Table 1137-03-1 Uses
1137.03.A - Retail Uses
Standards
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA MUC
MUD
RO LI
MAMU
1) General retail less than 5,000
sqft per business unit
P
P
P
P
P
P
2) General retail 5,000 sqft to
50,000 sqft per business unit
P
P
P
C
P
3) General retail more than 50,000
sqft per business unit
1162.03.A
C
C
C
P
4) Thrift stores
1162.03.B
C
C
5) Smoke shops, hookah shops,
drug paraphernalia and electronic
cigarette shops
1162.03.C
C
C
C
6) Cannabis dispensary
1162.03.D
C
1137.03.B - Automotive-
Related Uses
Standards
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA MUC
MUD
RO LI
MAMU
1) Sales of new automobiles and
motorcycles
P
P
2) Vehicle, truck and trailer rental
C
C
3) Vehicle repair, major
1162.04.A
C
C
C
4) Vehicle repair minor
1162.04.A
C
C
C
C
5) Vehicle service station,
gasoline
1162.04.B
C
C
P
P
6) Vehicle service station, electric
1162.04.B
C
C
P
P
7) Vehicle towing facilities
1162.04.C
C
8) Vehicle wash facilities
1162.04.D
C
C
C
1137.03.C - Service-Related
Uses
Standards
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA MUC
MUD
RO LI
MAMU
1) Personal service
establishments
P
P
P
P
P
P
2) Professional service
establishments
P
P
P
P
P
P
3) Pharmacies*
P
P
P
P
C
4) Health and fitness center
C
P
P
P
5) School, commercial and
studios including art, dance,
martial arts and music
P
P
P
P
P
C
P
6) Mortuaries, crematoriums and
funeral homes
C
P
P
P
7) Dry cleaning and laundromats*
P
C
P
P
P
8) Massage establishments
P
P
P
9) Body branding, piercing and
tattoo
1162.05.A
C
P
P
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
10) Animal services, veterinary
office/clinic, animal hospital,
grooming, boarding, training, day
care
1162.05.B
C
C
P
P
P
11) Short-term lending
establishments, check cashing,
title loan companies and similar
1162.05.C
C
C
C
12) Radio, Television and
recording studio
C
P
P
P
13) Daycares, nursey schools and
child care establishments
1162.05.D
P
P
P
P
P
C
P
1137.03.D - Office-Related
Uses
Standards
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA MUC
MUD
RO LI
MAMU
1) General office and co-working
facilities
P
P
P
P
P
C
P
P
P
2) Medical or dental office, health
center, clinic or laboratory
P
P
P
P
P
C
P
P
3) Contractor office
P
P
C
C
P
4) Banks and financial
institutions*
P
P
P
P
P
C
5) Research, development and
testing laboratories
P
P
P
1137.03.E - Food
/Hospitality-Related Uses
Standards
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA MUC
MUD
RO LI
MAMU
1) Bars, taverns, lounges and
night clubs
C
C
P
P
P
P
2) Convention, banquet and
meeting facilities
C
P
C
P
3) Restaurant, Table Service
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
4) Restaurant, Fast food*
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
5) Microbreweries
1162.07.A
C
C
C
C
C
P
6) Sale and Consumption of
Unregulated Psychoactive
substances on premises
1162.07.B
C
C
1137.03.F - Lodging-Related
Uses
Standards
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA MUC
MUD
RO LI
MAMU
1) Hotels and motels
C
P
P
P
2) Bed and Breakfast Inn
1162.08.A
C
C
1137.03.G - Recreation and
Amusement-Related Uses
Standards
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA MUC
MUD
RO LI
MAMU
1) Indoor commercial recreation
C
C
P
P
P
P
2) High ceiling indoor commercial
recreation
1162.09.A
C
P
P
P
C
P
3) Outdoor commercial recreation
1162.09.B
C
C
C
C
C
4) Theaters and assembly halls
P
P
C
P
5) Cultural facilities such as
museums and art centers
C
C
P
P
C
P
P
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
6) Parks, playground, pools or
recreation areas
P
P
P
P
P
P
7) Golf courses
8) Sexually oriented business
1162.09.C
C
C
1137.03.H - Institutional
Uses
Standards
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA MUC
MUD
RO LI
MAMU
1) Government offices, buildings
and facilities
P
P
P
P
P
P
2) Churches and places of
worship
1162.10.B
P
P
P
P
C
C
P
3) Fraternal organization and
private clubs
P
P
P
P
P
C
4) Hospital
1162.10.D
P
C
C
C
P
C
P
C
C
5) Schools, K-12
1162.10.A
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
6) Schools, specialized/training
C
C
C
C
C
P
7) Community centers and senior
centers
P
P
P
P
P
P
8) Libraries*
P
P
P
P
P
9) Colleges and universities
1162.10.C
C
C
C
1137.03.I - Residential Uses
Standards
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA MUC
MUD
RO LI
MAMU
1) Single-family dwelling,
detached
P
P
2) Townhome or Single-family
dwelling. Attached, not more than
3 in a group
P
C
P
3) Townhome or Single-family
dwelling. Attached, more than 3 in
a group
P
C
C
C
P
P
4) Two-family dwelling
P
P
5) Upper story dwelling units
C
C
P
P
P
P
P
6) Multi-family buildings
C
P
P
7) Assisted living facility,
congregate housing, continuing
care retirement community, or a
nursing facility
C
C
C
C
C
C
8) Age restricted housing
C
C
C
P
C
9) Group home
C
C
C
10) Planned Development
1162.11.A
C
1137.03.J - Industrial Uses
Standards
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA MUC
MUD
RO LI
MAMU
1) Freight terminals
P
2) Artisan workshop
C
C
P
P
P
P
3) Assembling, manufacturing
and processing
C
P
4) Contractor yard for vehicles,
equipment, materials and/or
supplies
P
P
5) Warehousing and wholesale
business (not retail)
P
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
6) Warehousing distribution, e-
commerce and fulfillment centers
P
7) Cannabis cultivation
1162.12.B
C
8) Datacenters
1162.12.C
P
9) Self-storage facilities, Mini-
Warehouse or personal storage.
1162.12.A
C
Non-intrusive industrial use
1162.12.D
C
1137.03.K - Utility-Related
Uses
Standards
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA MUC
MUD
RO LI
MAMU
Public utility buildings,
substations and subinstallations
1162.13.A
C
C
C
C
C
P
C
Recycling collection centers
C
P
Wireless Telecommunications
1162.13.B
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
P
C
Solar Energy Systems
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
P
C
1137.03.L - Transportation
Related Uses
Standards
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA MUC
MUD
RO LI
MAMU
Transit stations, passenger bus
station, repairs and storage
garages
C
C
C
C
C
P
Commercial Parking Lot or
Structure
1162.14.A
C
C
C
1137.03.M - Agricultural
Uses
Standards
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA MUC
MUD
RO LI
MAMU
Farmer’s Stand
C
C
C
C
C
1137.03.N - Adaptive Uses
Standards
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA MUC
MUD
RO LI
MAMU
Adaptive Commercial Reuse
1162.16.A
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
Adaptive Residential Reuse
1162.16.B
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
1137.04 SPATIAL REQUIREMENTS.
Table 1137.04-1 Spatial Requirements
1137.04.A - Spatial
Requirements
B1
B2
B3
B4
MUA
MUC
MUD
RO
LI
MAMU
1) Min. Lot Area (sq ft)
5,000
25,000
5,000
5,000
15,000
15,000
15,000
10,000
15,000
5,000
2) Min. Lot Width (ft)
80
100
50
50
50
50
50
100
80
50
3) Min. Front Yard Setback (ft)
10
50
0
0
25
25
25
50
10
0
4) Max. Front Yard Setback (ft)
90
100
20
20
100
100
100
100
50
20
5) Min. Side Yard Setback (ft)
10
10
10
10
25
25
25
10
10
10
6) Min. Rear Yard Setback (ft)
20
20
25
25
50
50
50
10
20
25
7) Min. Building Frontage Width
60%
65%
60%
8) Min. Lot Coverage
40%
40%
60%
9) Max. Lot Coverage
65%
50%
90%
90%
40%
50%
30%
25%
75%
90%
10) Min. Height (ft)
20
20
20
20
11) Max. Height (ft)
35
35
60
75
75
45
60
35
45
75
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
1137.05 ACCESSORY USES AND STRUCTURES.
Table 1137.05-1 Accessory Uses and Structures
1137.05. A - Accessory Uses
and Structures
Standards B1
B2 B3
B4 MUA MUC MUD RO LI
MAMU
1) Home Occupations
1161.10
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
2) Private Garage and Driveway
1161.05
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
3) Accessory Structures
1161.12
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
4) Alternative Energy
1161.11
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
5) Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit
C
C
C
C
C
6) Drive-through facilities
C
C
C
P
C
C
C
C
C
7) Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
8) Outdoor dining
1161.13.B
C
C
P
P
P
P
P
9) Accessory Outdoor Display
P
P
P
P
P
P
10) Contractor’s Yard or Outdoor
Storage
1161.13.A
C
C
C
C
11) Sales of used commercial trucks,
recreational vehicles, construction
equipment, farm implements and
similar vehicles and equipment
C
C
12) Open-Air Market or Farmer’s
Market
C
C
P
P
P
P
13) Wireless Telecommunications
collocation on existing structures
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
14) Parking Lot
1163
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
14) Parking Structure
1163
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
---
[CHAPTER 1161- Basic Standards WORKING DRAFT v1.pdf]
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
CHAPTER 1161
Basic Standards
1161.01 Building Lots
1161.02 Dimensional Standards
1161.03 Building Design and Materials
1161.04 Performance Standards
1161.05 Driveways
1161.06 Access Management
1161.07 Sidewalks
1161.08 Fences and Walls
1161.09 Dumpsters and Commercial Trash Receptacles
1161.10 Home Occupation
1161.10 Alternative Energy
1161.11 Primary Use Standards
1161.12 Accessory Structures
1161.13 Accessory Uses
1161.01 BUILDING LOTS.
1161.01.A. Purpose.
The purpose of this Section is to clarify what is required for a parcel of land to be
considered a building lot.
1161.01.B. Applicability.
These standards shall apply to the use of all parcels of land in the City of North Olmsted.
1161.01.C. Standards.
1. A parcel of land may be used for building purposes if it is a “lot”, as defined in Section
1115.07 of these Regulations.
2. A parcel of land may be used for building purposes if it is a legally established lot of
record prior to the adoption of these Regulations, or prior to any relevant amendment
thereto, which fails to meet current dimensional standards, but qualifies for development
under the provisions of Chapter 1163.
1161.02 DIMENSIONAL STANDARDS
1161.02.A. Purpose.
The purpose of these standards is to establish a uniformity of scale for development within
each zoning district.
1161.02.B. Applicability.
Dimensional standards for lot area and lot width shall apply to building lots. Setbacks and
height, lot coverage and building frontage width, shall apply to development and other
activities.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
1161.02.C. Lot Area
Each building lot shall have at least the minimum area required for the zone in which it is
located.
1161.02.D. Lot Area Modifications
1161.02.E. Lot Width
Each lot shall have the minimum width along the frontage on a street required for the zone
in which it is located.
1161.02.F. Lot Width Modifications
1. Curvilinear Lots.
Lots with curvilinear frontage shall have the lot width measured at the front yard setback.
1161.02.G. Setback.
1. Minimum Front, Side or Rear Setback.
No structure shall extend within less than the minimum distances from any front, side or
rear property line, or any other property line as specified by the setback distances for the
zone. If the edge of the street shall be used as the front property line for properties that
extend to the centerline of the street.
2. Maximum Front Setback.
No structure shall be place farther back from the any front property line as specified by the
setback distances for the zone. If the edge of the street shall be used as the front property
line for properties that extend to the centerline of the street.
1161.02.G. Setback Modification
1. Front Yard Setback Averaging.
In a residence district, the minimum depth of the front yard need be no greater than the
average distance from the street line to the principal buildings on the two adjoining lots on
each side of the proposed site if developed with buildings.
2. Maximum Front Yard Setback.
3. Corner Lots- Side Yard Setback.
The side yard of the corner lot shall be the side the principal building without the primary
entrance.
4. Undersized Lot Width- Side Yard Setback.
If a lot does not have the required lot width for a conforming lot in the district, the side yard
will be 15% of the existing lot width. In no instance shall the side yard be less than 5 feet.
5. Mechanical Equipment.
Mechanical equipment, such as generators, air conditioning units shall have modified
setback requirements based on their footprint:
Table 1161.02.G-1 Mechanical Equipment Setback
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
Footprint
Side Yard Setback
Over 50 sq ft
District setback
15 to 50 sq ft
5 feet
Under 15 sq ft
2 feet
6. Projections
Pilasters, belt courses, sills, cornices, marquees, canopies, eaves and similar architectural
features and fire escapes may project two (2) feet into the area required for setback from a
property or street line.
1161.02.H. Height.
No structure shall exceed the maximum height as specified by the dimensional standards
for the zone in which it is located. This limitation, however, shall not apply to the following
when not for human occupancy: spires, ornamental cupolas, towers, chimneys, flagpoles
and silos, as well as features such as tanks and heating, ventilating, air conditioning,
railings, and elevator equipment, that are located on the roof of a building and do not
occupy more than 25 percent of the area of the roof.
1161.02.I. Height Modifications
1. Non-human occupancy use
Maximum height limit for the district shall not apply to the following when not for human
occupancy: spires, ornamental cupolas, towers, chimneys, flagpoles and silos, as well as
features such as tanks and heating, ventilating, air conditioning, railings, and elevator
equipment, that are located on the roof of a building and do not occupy more than 25
percent of the area of the roof.
2. Pitched Roof
Maximum ridge height may be exceed by 5 feet above the limit to accommodate standard
roof pitches.
3. Small Structures
For districts with a minimum height requirements shall not apply to structures with less
than 2,000 square feet.
1161.02.J. Lot Coverage.
The aggregate lot coverage of all structures, primary and accessory, on any lot shall not
exceed the ratio of coverage to the lot area as specified for the zone in which the structures
are located.
1161.02.K. Lot Coverage Modifications
1. Undersized Lots
For lots that do not meet the minimum lot area requirements, the maximum allowed lot
coverage shall be the maximum allowed square footage allowed for the minimum
compliant lot.
2. Multi-Parcel Developments
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
In commercial and industrial districts, projects involving multiple parcels the maximum
allowed lot coverage can be applied to the total area of the project.
1161.03 MATERIALS, DESIGN AND PLACEMENT.
1161.03.A. Materials.
All non-residential buildings, multi-family structures or mixed use structures shall be
composed of high-quality materials and, at a minimum, shall be comprised of:
Table 1161.03.A-1 Primary and Secondary Materials
1) Primary
Materials
brick, stone (natural or cultured), architectural pre-cast concrete, glass, high-
density stratified wood board, fiber reinforced concrete panels, stucco, or
architectural metal panels
Minimum 75%
2) Secondary
Materials
split face block, scored block, exterior insulation finish system (EIFS), wood, vinyl,
metal and other similar quality materials
Maximum 25%
1161.03.B. Materials Modification.
The reviewing authority may grant a modification to the minimum material percentages
established in Table 1161.03.A, up to a maximum adjustment of 15%, only upon finding
that the applicant demonstrates clear compliance with at least three (3) of the following
objective criteria:
Table 1161.03.B-1 Materials Modification
Criteria
Standard
1) Architectural Integration
and Context
The proposed alternative materials or ratios directly replicate, complement,
or harmonize with the predominant architectural materials of existing
adjacent or significant structures within 300 feet on the same block face.
2) Superior Performance
The alternative exterior cladding system provides an equivalent or superior
thermal insulation value, energy efficiency rating, or reduced carbon
lifecycle footprint compared to standard primary materials, as certified by a
licensed architect or engineer.
3) Durability
The alternative material meet or exceed the structural durability of standard
brick or stone.
4) Visual Interest
The architectural design incorporates deep reveals, pronounced shadow
lines, multi-planar wall offsets, or specialized integrated fenestration
systems across at least 40% of the affected facade, designed to create a
"rhythm" instead of a flat surface.
5) New Materials
The proposed material is a newly engineered building product not explicitly
listed in Table 1161.03-1, backed by independent testing documentation
proving it meets national standards for commercial exterior
weatherproofing, flame resistance, and color retention.
1161.03.C. Building Design.
All non-residential buildings, multi-family structures or mixed-use structures shall be
designed to incorporate the following:
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
Table 1161.03.C-1 Building Design Standards
Element
Standards
Requirement
1) Walls
Use recesses, projections, and wall relief (like columns or piers) to divide the
building's length and width.
2) Form /
Function
The internal function of the building shall provide the rationale for the division of
massing.
3) Visual
Interest
Use window patterns (fenestration) and architectural details to create a "rhythm"
instead of a flat surface.
4) Fenestration
Transparent fenestration is required on the public façade on each floor of the
building.
Windows shall be recessed from the exterior wall plane
Ground- Min. 50%
Upper- Min. 20%
5) Horizontal
The building design shall incorporate a distinct base, middle and top.
6) Top
Features to clearly define the top of a structure may be accomplished via a defined
parapet or cornice elements; distinct eaves; corbeled brick, masonry or stone;
architectural roof forms and other elements
7) Human Scale
The articulation of a building shall reduce its perceived height by dividing the
building into smaller scale elements to provide a "human scale" based on its
location.
8) Entrances
Each building shall have a clear, highly visible customer entrance(s) defining the
major entry points to the building. Corner lot- angled entrance permitted. Every
principal building shall feature at least one primary customer entrance facing
directly onto the primary public sidewalk or a pedestrian plaza connected to the
public right-of-way.
1 Every 70 ft
9) Screening
Buildings shall have architectural features to fully conceal rooftop equipment, such
as HVAC units, exhaust, vents, transformers, roof access, etc. from public view
1161.03.D. Building Placement.
All non-residential buildings, multi-family structures or mixed-use structures, the primary
front building facade shall be constructed within the area of minimum and maximum front
yards setback for the district or aligned with the established average front setback of
adjacent buildings on the same block face.
1161.03.E. Parking Placement.
All non-residential buildings, multi-family structures or mixed-use structures shall locate
surface lots according the requirements in 1163..
1161.03.F. Design and Placement Modification.
The reviewing authority may grant an administrative modification to the building design,
front setback placement, or parking location standards of Sections 1161.03.C through
1161.03.E, , only upon finding that the applicant demonstrates clear achievement of at
least two (2) of the following objective criteria:
Table 1161.03.F Design and Placement Modifications
Criteria
Standard
1) Civic Space
The site plan incorporates a permanent, publicly accessible open space,
courtyard, pocket park, or enhanced pedestrian plaza comprising a minimum
of 5% of the total lot area, directly connected to the public right-of-way.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
2) Covered Pedestrian
Connectivity
The project provides an integrated, weather-protected pedestrian network
(such as permanent arcades, covered colonnades, or awnings) spanning at
least 60% of the primary street-facing building facade.
3) Streetscape
Transparency
To compensate for architectural variations, the ground-floor transparent
fenestration along the primary public facade exceeds the minimum
requirement by at least 15% (reaching a minimum of 65% transparency).
4) Minimum Frontage
Build-Out
At least 65% of the total lot width along the primary public right-of-way must
be occupied by the principal building facade. Corner lots must fulfill this
build-out requirement along both street frontages
5) Public Art
At least 1% of the total construction cost used to create and install public art
within or near the site.
6) Structured or Below-
Grade Parking
The development provides 50% of required vehicular parking either within a
subterranean basement garage, beneath the building footprint, or structured
within a multi-level parking deck that is entirely wrapped by active
commercial or residential uses along all street-facing facades.
7) Mixed-Use
The building incorporates a true vertical mixed-use program, dedicating at
least 30% of the gross floor area on upper stories to residential dwelling units
or professional office spaces situated above active ground-floor retail or
service uses.
8) Streetscape and
Furnishings
The applicant installs a wider public sidewalk or a continuous, dedicated
street-tree and furnishing zone between the curb and the building facade that
exceeds standard municipal requirements by at least 4 feet, complete with
pre-approved street trees, decorative pedestrian-scale lighting, and
integrated waste receptacles.
9) Alley or Rear-Lane
Access
Vehicular access, service loading, and waste collection points are exclusively
accessed via an existing rear alley or a newly created internal service lane,
completely eliminating curb cuts and vehicular driveway interruptions along
the primary pedestrian street frontage.
1161.04 PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
1161.04.A. Prohibited Nuisances
No land or structure in any zoning district shall be used, occupied, or operated in a manner
that produces any dangerous, injurious, noxious, or objectionable element, including but
not limited to fire or explosive hazard, noise, vibration, smoke, particulate matter, dust,
odor, glare, heat, cold, dampness, or electrical interference, that exceeds the specific
thresholds, when observed at the property line of the lot on which the use is located.
1161.05 DRIVEWAY.
1161.05.A. Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to provide for safe vehicular access from the street into all
developed properties, minimize disruption of traffic on adjacent roadways, and control
drainage and sedimentation into and out of all driveways.
1161.05.B. Applicability and Permit Requirements
The provisions of this Section shall apply to all driveways within the City of North Olmsted.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
1161.05.C. Minimum Design Standards for All Zoning Districts
1. Driveways shall be constructed to provide year-round access for emergency and service
vehicles and shall have an all-weather passable surface not less than ten feet in width
when serving one lot and not less than sixteen feet when serving more than one lot.
Residential district driveways shall not exceed twenty-four feet in width at the street line
and shall not exceed thirty-feet at the edge of pavement of the street. Other (commercial,
industrial, etc.) shall not exceed thirty feet. A greater width may be allowed by the
Commission upon recommendation of the City Engineer.
2. The maximum number of driveways permitted from any lot to a street shall be as follows:
Table 1161.05.C-1 Maximum Number of Driveways
Length of Lot Width
Maximum
0 to 99 feet
1
100 to 299 feet
2
300 to 599 feet
3
600 to 899 feet
4
900 feet or more
5
3. Whenever practical, a driveway shall intersect a street at 90 degrees. In no case shall a
driveway intersect a street at an angle of less than 60 degrees.
4. For uses with a parking lot with more than 100 parking spaces, access to the site shall be
located no closer than 125 feet to any intersection or other driveway on the same side of
the street, as measured from the nearest right-of-way line to the nearest edge of the
driveway or edge to edge from the nearest driveway.
1161.06 ACCESS MANAGEMENT
1161.06.A. Functional Classification.
The roadways listed in Table 1161.7-1 have been designated by the Northeast Ohio
Areawide Coordinating Agency (NOACA) as having a functional classification of principal
arterial, minor arterial or major collector. NOACA's most current list of roadway functional
classifications shall govern the regulations of this Zoning Code.
Table 1161.06.A-1, Functional Classification (NOACA, 2016)
FC=3, Principal Arterial:
FC=, Minor Arterial:
FC=5, Major Collector:
Columbia Road north of Lorain
Road
Columbia Road south of
Butternut Ridge Road
Great Northern Boulevard
Lorain Road
Brookpark Road
Butternut Ridge Road
Cedar Point Road
Clague Road
Columbia Road south of Lorain
Road
Barton Road
Bradley Road
Dover Center Road
Porter Road north of Lorain Road
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
Stearns Road north of I-480
Fitch Road
Mastick Road
Stearns Road south of I-480
1161.06.B. Driveway Spacing Standards.
The following minimum spacing requirements shall apply to all curb cuts and driveways
within any non-residential zoning district for roads designated in Table 1161.07-1 as
Principal Arterial and Minor Arterial.
Table 1161.06-2, Driveway Spacing Standards
Posted Speed
Minimum Distance
25 mph
155 ft
30 mph
200 ft
35 mph
250 ft
These driveway spacing standards are guidelines and will be required if such distances can
be achieved given the property limits and site layout. However, the City recognizes that in
many cases these distances may not be feasible given the existing development and
property lines within the City. In these instances, the City will make a determination as to
what spacing will be required, and whether or not a driveway will be required to be
directionally restricted in lieu of not meeting the spacings listed in Table 1161.07-2.
1. Spacing between a proposed driveway and a street intersection, either adjacent or on
the opposite side of the street, shall not be less than the distances in Table 1161.07-2.
Measurements are from the near edge of the proposed driveway, measured at the throat
perpendicular to the street to the near lane curb or pavement edge of the intersecting
street.
2. Minimum spacing between two (2) driveways on the same side of the street shall be
determined based upon posted speed limits in Table 1161.07-2 and shall be measured
from centerline to centerline.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
3. To reduce left-turn conflicts, new driveways shall be aligned with those across the street,
where possible. If alignment is not possible, driveways shall be offset from those on the
opposite side of the street a minimum of 250 feet along arterial roads and 150 feet along
collector and local roads. These standards may be reduced where there is insufficient
frontage and shared access with an adjacent site is not feasible. Longer offsets may be
required depending on the expected inbound left-turn volumes of the driveways.
1161.06.C. Commercial Driveways Permitted.
1. The number of driveways serving a property in any non-residential zoning district shall be
the minimum number necessary to provide reasonable access and access for emergency
vehicles, while preserving traffic operations and safety along the public street.
2. Adjacent parcels in common ownership fronting on the same street shall be considered
as one (1) parcel when determining permitted driveways.
3. Access shall be provided for each separately owned parcel. Access may be via an
individual driveway, shared driveway or service drive. Additional driveways may be
permitted for property only as follows:
a. One (1) additional driveway may be allowed for properties with a continuous
frontage greater than 400 feet if the reviewing authority determines there are no
other reasonable access alternatives;
b. The reviewing authority determines additional access is justified without
compromising traffic operations along the public street; and
c. The minimum spacing requirements, specified in Table 1161.07-2 can be met.
1161.07 SIDEWALKS
1161.07.A. Requirement.
Sidewalks shall be constructed within the right-of-way or within the required setback area
of all public and private streets to ensure current and future connectivity as provided in
Section 903.03. Where sidewalks are not located within the right-of-way, but proposed to
be located on private property within the required setback area, a public access easement
shall be provided to the City and recorded as a condition of development plan approval.
1161.07.B. Modification.
The reviewing authority may modify the requirement for sidewalks, based on the following
criteria:
1. Pedestrian connectivity is already provided via sidewalks or pathways or as part of a
previously approved development plan in close proximity; or
2. The applicant has agreed to a payment-in-lieu arrangement with the City for construction
of sidewalks or pathways.
1161.08 FENCES AND WALLS
1161.08.A. Fences.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
Fences shall be permitted in accordance with the following regulations and the
requirements and specifications contained in Chapter 1369, Fences and Screen Walls, in
the Building Code.
1. Side and Rear Yards.
A fence not exceeding six (6) feet in height may be placed along any side or rear property
line providing it does not extend nearer the street line than the front building line.
2. Front Yards.
A fence may be placed between the front building line and front lot line so long as at least
fifty percent (50%) of the face is open space and the fence does not exceed thirty (30)
inches in height.
3. Corner Lots.
A fence not exceeding six (6) feet in height may be constructed on a corner lot in the side
and rear yards provided that the fence is set back at least five (5) feet from the front lot line,
sidewalk or street curb, which ever distance is greater from the abutting lot on the side
street. A fence that is at least fifty percent (50%) open and that does not exceed thirty (30)
inches in height may be constructed on a corner lot in the side and rear yards at the front
lot line of the abutting lot on the side street. The reviewing authority may reduce this
distance provided the fence placement provides adequate sight-line visibility, provides
adequate distance from public sidewalks or pedestrian paths and designed in a manner
that is harmonious and compatible to the greatest extent reasonably possible, with the
character of the surrounding area.
1161.09 DUMPSTERS AND COMMERCIAL TRASH RECEPTACLES
1161.09.A. Location.
1. Dumpsters, compactors and other forms of large commercial trash receptacles shall be
located only within paved areas in the side or rear yard, but not within any required buffer
area.
2. The location of receptacles shall not be within any designated parking or loading space.
1161.09.B. Screening.
Screening shall be provided in accordance with Section 1139.07.B.1-4.
1161.10 HOME OCCUPATION
1161.10.A. Home Occupations.
A home occupation may be permitted subject to the following requirements:
1. Only members of the family residing within the dwelling shall work therein;
2. The occupation shall be conducted wholly within the resident dwelling;
3. The home occupation shall not attract a greater number of automobiles to the premises
than normally associated with a single family residence;
4. Commercial trucks, tractors, trailers or other vehicles as defined in the Traffic Code or
other mobile equipment shall not be parked overnight in driveways or yards;
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
5. No equipment shall be used nor activity conducted which will create any dust, noise,
odors, glare, vibrations or electrical disturbances beyond the lot;
6. The residential character of the dwelling exterior shall not be changed;
7. Any signage shall comply with the provisions of Chapter 1163.
1161.11 ALTERNATIVE ENERGY.
1161.11.A. Purpose.
This Section is intended to promote the safe, efficient, and effective use of alternative
energy sources while ensuring that alternative energy structures are compatible with the
surrounding neighborhood. It is further the intent of this Section to encourage and facilitate
the implementation of alternative energy systems when implemented as an accessory use
to the principal use of a lot and/or building.
1161.11.B. Solar.
1. Roof-Mounted Solar Arrays.
a. The array shall not exceed the maximum height permitted in the zoning district by
more than two feet (2’).
b. The array shall not cover an area greater than the roof area of the structure.
2. Ground-mounted Solar Array
a. Gound-mounted systems shall meet all setback requirements.
b. Ground-mounted systems shall not be located in the front yard.
c. Ground-mounted system shall be calculated in the lot coverage requirements. A
ground-mounted system erected over existing or proposed impervious paved
parking space shall be exempt from lot coverage requirements.
1161.11.C. Wind.
1. Setback.
The required setback from any property line of any wind turbine shall be a distance equal to
1.1 times the maximum height of the turbine blade from the ground (measured from the
base at grade to the highest tip of the vertical blade).
2. Separating Distance.
The required separating distance to any adjacent residential structure shall be twice the
maximum height of the turbine blade from the ground (measured from the base at grade to
the highest tip of the vertical blade).
3. Noise and Vibrations.
Any noise or vibrations shall not be detectable at the property line.
1161.11.D. Geothermal.
1. Setback.
Geothermal installations are exempt from the setback requirements, unless the above
ground components exceed 3 feet in height.
2. Screening.
Geothermal installations shall be adequately screened.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
3. Front Yard.
Geothermal installations may be located in the front yard if adequate landscape screening
is provided.
1161.11.E. Other.
1. All other forms of alternative energy may be approved by minor development plan review
if the components are less than 3 feet above ground, otherwise the proposal may be
approved as major development plan review.
2. All other forms of alternative energy shall meet setback requirements and lot coverage
requirements.
3. All other forms of alternative energy shall not be located in the front yard.
1161.12 PRIMARY USE STANDARDS
1161.12.A Single-Family.
Parcels used for single-family dwellings in the following zoning districts may only contain
one (1) single-family dwelling and one (1) detached accessory dwelling unit.
1. A - One Family Residence (A-1R)
2. B - One Family Residence (B-1R)
3. C - One Family Residence (C-1R)
1161.12.B Standards for Auto Dealerships.
The following standards shall apply to facilities engaged in the sale of new automobiles and
motorcycles including accessory sales of used automobiles and motorcycles:
1. Showrooms and lots for the sale of used motor vehicles shall be located either on a
parcel of land upon which an existing showroom and/or lot for the sale of new motor
vehicles is located or upon a parcel of land which is physically contiguous to a parcel of
land containing an existing showroom and lot for the sale of new motor vehicles.
2. The minimum lot size shall be three (3) acres.
3. The use shall be located on Lorain Road, in addition to being allowed in the zoning
district.
4. Access to the site shall not be located closer than 125 feet to any intersection or other
driveway on the same side of the street, as measured from the nearest right-of-way line to
the nearest edge of the driveway or edge to edge from the nearest driveway.
5. Flags, pennants, balloons, ribbons, search lights, strings of lights or other distracting
devices are not permitted.
6. Audible paging systems and outdoor speakers are prohibited. Vehicles stored on the site
shall not be located by employees using audible methods such as keyless entry systems.
7. Outdoor areas shall conform to the following:
a. All vehicles shall be parked on approved paved surfaces.
b. Vehicle display or storage shall not be allowed in areas required for visitor,
employee or service parking.
c. All other merchandise available for sale such as clothing, accessories, tires,
collectibles, etc. shall be sold and displayed within an enclosed building.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
d. Accessory service work, including vehicle washing, repair and general
maintenance, shall be conducted entirely within an enclosed building.
1161.12 ACCESSORY STRUCTURES.
1161.12.A. Lot Coverage Requirement.
Any principal structures and accessory structures shall not exceed the maximum
allowable lot coverage.
1161.12.B. Front Yard Prohibition.
Any principal structures and accessory structures shall not be located in the front yard.
1161.12.C. Small Structure Setback.
Any principal structures and accessory structures under 500 sq ft shall be set back at least
5 feet from any property line. Any principal structures and accessory structures over 500 sq
ft shall meet setback requirements for the district.
1161.13 ACCESSORY USES.
1161.13.A Outside Storage.
1. Vehicles parked in parking spaces approved as such by the reviewing authority are not
considered outdoor storage.
2. Outside storage in business and industrial districts shall not extend into the area
required for setback from a street line or Residence District boundary line.
1161.13.B Outdoor Dining.
1. Location.
a. All Outdoor Dining shall take place entirely on private property, be used in
conjunction with, and under the same management and exclusive control of, an
approved restaurant located on the same or contiguous property owned or leased
by the applicant. Public property may not be used for dining facilities purposes
unless approved by the City Council. Public Right-of-Way, including but not limited
to public sidewalks, grass strips, and on-street parking areas within the Right-of-
Way, may not be used for Outdoor Dining unless approved by the City Engineer or
their designee.
2. Operation.
a. Outdoor dining activities shall be limited to the operational hours of the
restaurant.
b. Public address systems, live amplified music or other systems intended to convey
verbal messages through the use of amplified sound shall be prohibited after 10pm.
c. Outdoor dining areas located on property adjoining a residential district shall be
required to have a minimum setback of 50 feet from that district and, at a minimum,
screening and/or a screening fence which separates it from that district.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
d. Lighting shall be limited to that level which is necessary to illuminate the outdoor
dining area for patrons and staff and very low illuminance level decorative lighting.
Flashing/blinking lights shall be prohibited.
3. Accessibility
a. All outdoor dining areas must be accessible and show that a minimum 5-foot
public walkway to any entrance will be provided and maintained pursuant to
Americans with Disabilities Act and Ohio State Building Code. If outdoor dining is
located on a pedestrian path or sidewalk, a 5-foot public walkway is required across
or around the outdoor dining area.
4. Liquor or Alcoholic Beverages.
a. If liquor or alcoholic beverages are to be served at the outdoor dining area, the
enclosure of the outdoor dining area must also meet the requirements (if any) of any
agency having jurisdiction over the service of such beverages.
b. Outdoor dining areas that serve liquor or alcohol beverages shall be required to
have a fixed or temporary barrier, such as fencing, planters, or other barrier that
shall clearly define their boundaries.
7. Fire Safety.
a. Fire hydrants and fire hose couplings and/or connections on buildings shall not be
obstructed.
1161.13.C Accessory Dwelling Unit.
1. Purpose.
The purpose of this section is to provide homeowners with an opportunity to establish
secondary, independent living accommodations on single-family residential lots while
preserving neighborhood character, ensuring compatibility with surrounding properties,
and maintaining appropriate housing density and public health, safety, and welfare
standards. Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs) offer flexible housing options for diverse
household needs, including multi-generational living and attainable housing choices,
subject to clear design and development controls.
2. General Standards.
a. Accessory Dwelling Unit shall be allowed accessory only to a single-family
dwelling.
b. Accessory Dwelling Unit shall be limited to studio or one-bedroom composition.
c. Utilities and meters shall not be separated.
d. Yard and coverage requirements shall apply in accordance with the applicable
zoning district of which the Accessory Dwelling Unit is located.
e. Exterior materials, roof pitch and window proportions of the Accessory Dwelling
Unit shall match or visually complement the principal dwelling.
f. Off-street parking is required for the Accessory Dwelling Unit.
g. Second curb cuts or driveways to serve the Accessory Dwelling Unit are
prohibited.
h. Accessory Dwelling Unit shall comply with applicable Housing Codes, Building
Codes, Fire Codes, Health Codes, and any other applicable codes and ordinances.
2. Attached Accessory Dwelling Unit Standards
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
a. For attached Accessory Dwelling Unit shall not exceed 750 sq. ft. of floor area and
shall not exceed 25% of the floor area of the principal dwelling.
b. For attached Accessory Dwelling Units, any exterior entrances shall be on the
side or rear of the principal structure. Second front entrance is prohibited.
c. There shall be an interior connection between the attached Accessory Dwelling
Unit and the principal dwelling.
c. Attached Accessory Dwelling Units shall only located to the side or rear of the
principal dwelling.
d. Height shall no exceed principal dwelling height.
3. Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit Standards
a. For detached Accessory Dwelling Unit shall not exceed 1,000 sq. ft. of floor area
and shall not exceed 40% of the floor area of the principal dwelling.
b. Height of the detached Accessory Dwelling Unit shall not exceed 15 ft, unless
over a detached garage, in which case the maximum allowed height for the zoning
district shall apply.
c. Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit shall only be located in the Rear Yard.
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[CHAPTER 1162- Conditional Use Requirements WORKING DRAFT v1.pdf]
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CHAPTER 1162
Conditional Use Requirements
1162.01 Specific conditional use requirements.
1162.02 Separation Distance Requirements
1162.02 Retail-Related Uses
1162.03 Automotive-Related Uses
1162.04 Service-Related Uses
1162.05 Office-Related Uses
1162.06 Food /Hospitality-Related Uses
1162.07 Lodging-Related Uses
1162.08 Recreation and Amusement-Related Uses
1162.09 Institutional Uses
1162.10 Residential-Related Uses
1162.11 Industrial-Related Uses
1162.12 Utility-Related Uses
1162.13 Transportation-Related Uses
1162.14 Agricultural Uses
1162.15 Adaptive-Related Uses
1162.16 Accessory Uses and Structures
1162.01 SPECIFIC CONDITIONAL USE REQUIREMENTS.
1162.01.A. Applicability.
Any use listed in Chapter 1162, shall need to adhere to the following specific condition
listed herein, in addition to the general review criteria (1126.02) and the conditional review
criteria (1126.03).
1162.01.B. Waiver.
City Council may in its sole discretion waive any specific conditional use requirement
based upon a finding that a waiver of such specific requirements would have no adverse
impact to surrounding properties. Such waiver determination shall be final.
1162.02 SEPARATION DISTANCE REQUIREMENTS
1162.02.A. Same Use Class and Sensitive Uses.
The uses listed in Table 1162.02-1 shall maintain the minimum separation distances
specified therein from another of the Same Use Class, or from any applicable Place of
Worship, Park or Recreation Center, School or Daycare Facility, or Residential District.
1162.02.B. Measurement.
All separation distances shall be measured linearly in a straight line from the nearest
property boundary of the protected use parcel to the nearest property line or structural wall
of the proposed use, whichever is closer.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
Table 1162.02-1 Required Separation Distance Requirements
1162.02.C. Use Class
Same Use
Class
Place of
Worship
Park or
Rec. Center
School or
Daycare Facility
Residential
District
1) Thrift stores, Pawn Shops,
Secondhand store or resale
shop
3,000 ft
2) Smoke shops, hookah
shops, drug paraphernalia
and electronic cigarette
shops.
3,000 ft
2,500 ft
2,500 ft
2,500 ft
3) Body branding, piercing
and tattoo
3,000 ft
2,500 ft
2,500 ft
2,500 ft
4) Sale and Consumption of
Unregulated Psychoactive
substances on premises
3,000 ft
2,500 ft
2,500 ft
2,500 ft
5) Outdoor Commercial
Recreation- Motorized
200 ft
6) Sexually Oriented
Businesses
500 ft
500 ft
500 ft
500 ft
500 ft
7) Cannabis Dispensary
3,000 ft
250 ft
250 ft
250 ft
250 ft
8) Cannabis Cultivation
3,000 ft
250 ft
250 ft
250 ft
1162.03 RETAIL-RELATED USES
1162.03.A. General Retail Stores with 50,000 Square Feet or Greater.
1. These regulations shall apply to a retail or wholesale discount stores carrying a
multiple product line that contains 50,000 square feet or more of gross floor area, either
freestanding or as part of a shopping center development.
2. Minimum lot frontage is 300 feet along at least one (1) of the following main arterial
streets: Lorain Road, Brookpark Road or Great Northern Boulevard. All access to the
property shall be from those arterial streets.
3. Sixty percent (60%) of the lot area shall be located within one-half (1/2) mile of an
interstate highway interchange consisting of minimally both an eastbound and westbound
entrance and exit ramp. For the purpose of measuring the one-half (1/2) mile distance, the
one-half (1/2) mile arc shall begin at the intersection of the centerline of the interstate
highway and the centerline of the public street onto which the highway ramps are
connected. The Council may consider a distance of up to one (1) mile with a finding by the
new use is supporting transit oriented development or mixed-use development as
encouraged by the Comprehensive Plan.
1162.03.B. Thrift stores, Pawn Shops, Secondhand store or resale shop
1. The use shall be located at least 3,000 feet, measured lot line to lot line, from the
nearest thrift store, pawn shop, or secondhand store or resale shop.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
2. Outside storage and display shall be prohibited in conjunction with the operation of
Thrift Store.
3. A thrift store shall not occupy more than a maximum of twenty-five percent (25%) of
the net leaseable floor area of a shopping center.
4. Donation area(s), described as the location of and facilities for the donation of
merchandise to a thrift store, shall be located entirely within the interior of the thrift store
building; drive thru and/or drop off donation areas located outside of the thrift store
building are prohibited.
5. Donation boxes or containers, described as a remote and accessory facility to
accommodate the donation of merchandise for a thrift store, and which is located outside
of the building, are prohibited.
1162.03.C. Smoke shops, hookah shops, drug paraphernalia and electronic cigarette
shops.
1. The use shall be located at least 3,000 feet, measured lot line to lot line, from the
nearest tattoo, branding, hookah lounge, drug paraphernalia, smoking establishments.
2. The use shall be located within a commercial shopping center building with the
combined floor area of all businesses being 30,000 square feet or more.
3. The use shall be located at least 2,500 feet, measured lot line to lot line, from the
nearest Place of Worship, Park or Recreation Center, School or Daycare Facility.
1162.03.D. Cannabis Dispensary
1. The use shall be located at least 250 feet, measured lot line to lot line, from the nearest
Place of Worship, Park or Recreation Center, School or Daycare Facility.
2. No portion of the property upon which a Cannabis Dispensary is proposed shall be any
closer to another property containing an existing Cannabis Dispensary than 8,000 feet.
3. Cannabis Dispensary shall be entitled to engage in the sale, dispensing or distribution of
cannabis to qualified customers during the hours of 9 a.m. and 8 p.m. Monday through
Saturday. Sunday hours shall be limited to 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
4. The use shall be operated in a manner that ensures no odor from cannabis or cannabis
products is detectable at the property line or beyond. Odor mitigation technology (e.g.,
carbon filtration systems) shall be continuously operated. Documentation on the system
and certification by an appropriated licensed professional that the system will meet this
standard shall be submitted with application. Any application that fails to submit such
documentation shall be deemed incomplete.
5. Evidence shall be provided that all applicable requirements of the State of Ohio
governing the licensing of the facility are met and the use shall be operated at all times in
accordance with state requirements.
1162.04 AUTOMOTIVE-RELATED USES
1162.04.A. Vehicle Repair, Major or Minor.
1. All main and accessory structures shall be set back a minimum of 75 feet from any
residential district.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
2. The facility shall front on an arterial or collector street as defined in Table 1161.07-1,
and all access to the property shall be from that street.
3. Overhead doors shall not face any residential district. The Planning and Design
Commission may modify this requirement upon a determination that there is no
reasonable alternative and the visual impact will be diminished through use of building
materials, architectural features and landscaping.
4. Where applicable, vehicle stacking space shall be provided in front of each service
bay for at least two (2) vehicles.
5. All maintenance and repair work shall be conducted completely within an enclosed
building. Equipment, including hydraulic hoists, compressors, pits, lubrication, greasing
and other automobile repairing equipment shall be located entirely within an enclosed
building.
6. There shall be no outdoor storage or display of vehicle components and parts,
materials, commodities for sale, supplies or equipment.
7. Storage of wrecked, partially dismantled, or other derelict vehicles, or overnight
parking of any vehicle, except a tow truck, shall be permitted for no more than 30 days and
shall be within a designated area. Such area shall be appropriately screened from public
view in accordance with the screening requirements of Chapter 1139.
1162.04.B. Vehicle Service Station, Gasoline or Electric.
1. There shall be a minimum lot area of one (1) acre and minimum lot width of 150 feet
on an arterial street as defined in Table 1161.07-1.
2. Only one (1) driveway shall be permitted on any street, unless the Planning and
Design Commission determines additional driveways will be necessary to ensure safe and
efficient access to the site.
3. Pump islands shall be a minimum of 30 feet from any public right-of-way or lot line.
Tanks, propane, and petroleum products shall be set back at least 15 feet from any lot line.
4. Canopies covering gasoline pump islands providing protection from inclement
weather may be permitted in front of the established building line, provided that no portion
of such canopy is less than 15 feet from any street right-of-way line. Canopies shall be
constructed of materials consistent with the principal building. The proposed clearance of
any canopy shall be noted on the development plan. All signs, logos, or identifying paint
scheme shall be in accordance with Chapter 1163. The canopy shall not exceed 18 feet in
height. Lighting in the canopy shall be recessed, fully shielded and directed downward to
prevent off-site glare.
5. In the event that a gasoline station use has been abandoned or terminated for a
period of more than 12 months, all underground gasoline storage tanks shall be removed
from the premises, in accordance with state requirements.
6. A vehicle service station may be combined with other uses, such as convenience
store, vehicle wash, and/or restaurants provided that all relevant requirements are met and
the most restrictive requirements applicable to any single use shall apply. Parking
requirements may be modified, as provided in Chapter 1161.
1162.04.C. Vehicle Towing Facility.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
1. The facility shall front on an arterial street as defined in Table 1161.07-1, and all
access to the property shall be from that street.
2. Storage of wrecked, partially dismantled, or other derelict vehicles, or overnight
parking of any vehicle, except a tow truck, shall be limited to motor vehicles that have been
towed or transported pending the reclamation or disposition of such vehicles. Such area
shall be appropriately screened from public view in accordance with the screening
requirements of Chapter 1139.
1162.04.D. Vehicle Wash Facility.
1. All washing activities must occur inside a building.
2. Required stacking spaces for waiting vehicles shall not be located within a public or
private right-of-way and shall not conflict with maneuvering areas, parking spaces and
other activities. Stacking lanes shall be designed to prevent vehicle queues from extending
beyond the property.
3. The facility shall be located on an arterial street and all access to the property shall
be from that arterial street as defined in Table 1161.07-1.
4. Only one (1) driveway shall be permitted from any street, unless the Planning and
Design Commission determines additional driveways will be necessary to ensure safe and
efficient access to and egress from the site.
5. For automated drive-through wash facilities, a bypass lane is required that allows
bypassing waiting vehicles.
6. Overhead doors shall not face a street, except as approved by the Planning and
Design Commission in these circumstances:
a. When the doors of a through-garage are located at the front and rear of a building;
b. When a garage is located on a corner or through lot; or
c. When determined that a rear garage door would negatively affect an abutting
residential use or district.
7. A vehicle wash facility building and any accessory buildings and uses, including
vacuums, shall be located at least 100 feet from any residential district boundary.
9. The owner or operator must comply with all local noise regulations. Air handling
equipment shall be located on a roof, be equipped with intervening noise reduction baffles
and be in proper working condition.
1162.05 SERVICE-RELATED USES
1162.05.A. Body branding, piercing and tattoo.
1. The use shall be located at least 3,000 feet, measured lot line to lot line, from the
nearest tattoo, branding, hookah lounge, drug paraphernalia, smoking establishments.
2. The use shall be located within a commercial shopping center building with the
combined floor area of all businesses being 30,000 square feet or more.
3. The use shall be located at least 2,500 feet, measured lot line to lot line, from the
nearest Place of Worship, Park or Recreation Center, School or Daycare Facility.
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1162.05.B. Animal services, veterinary office/clinic, animal hospital, grooming,
boarding, training, day care
1. No part of the facility shall be located closer than 100 feet from any residential
zoning district.
2. If the facility is to include outdoor runs or exercise areas, minimum lot area shall be
one (1) acre.
3. No dog runs or animal exercise areas shall be located in a front yard.
Outdoor runs/exercise/relief areas shall be set back a minimum of 50 feet from all side
and rear property lines or the required setback for the zoning district, whichever is greater;
provided, a 100 foot setback shall be maintained from any residential district boundary.
4. Outdoor runs/exercise/relief areas shall be screened by a six (6) foot privacy fence
constructed of quality materials that are compatible with the surrounding neighborhood in
accordance with the screening requirements in Chapter 1139.
5. All animal noise and odor must be confined to any building used to house the
animals.
6. All animal excrement must be removed from any outdoor runs/exercise/relief areas
or yard and disposed of in a trash receptacle and removed off site on a weekly basis.
1162.05.C. Short Term Lending Establishments, Check Cashing, Payday Lender, Title
Loan Company or similar.
1. The use shall be located at least 3,000 feet, measured lot line to lot line, from the
nearest check cashing establishment, payday lender, deferred presentment lender,
pawnshop or title loan company.
2. The use shall be located within a commercial shopping center building with a total
floor area of all businesses being 30,000 square feet or more.
1162.05.D. Daycares, nursey schools and child care establishments.
1. When located in a residential district, the front yard setback shall be not less than
the required front yard setback for any adjacent properties. All buildings and accessory
structures shall be set back a minimum of 50 feet from any side or rear property line. All
parking areas shall be set back a minimum of 20 feet from any side or rear property line.
2. Outdoor play areas shall be enclosed by a secure fence at least four (4) feet high.
Play areas may not be located within a required yard.
3. The drop-off/pick-up area shall be of sufficient length and design to ensure that all
vehicle stacking and maneuvering occurs within the facility property and does not extend
into the adjacent public street.
4. Evidence shall be provided that all applicable requirements of the State of Ohio
governing the licensing of the facility are met and the use shall be operated at all times in
accordance with state requirements.
1162.06 OFFICE-RELATED USES
1162.07 FOOD/HOSPITALITY-RELATED USES
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
1162.07.A. Microbreweries
1. All mechanical equipment visible from the street, an adjacent residential use or
residential zoning district shall be screened using architectural features consistent with the
principal structure.
2. Access and loading bays are discouraged from facing toward any street; provided,
where such bays do face any street, adjacent to any residential use or residential zoning
district, the doors shall be closed at all times, except during the movement of raw
materials, other supplies and finished products into and out of the building.
3. Outdoor storage shall not be allowed, including the use of portable storage units,
cargo containers and tractor trailers.
1162.07.B. Sale and Consumption of Unregulated Psychoactive substances on
premises
1. The use shall be located at least 3,000 feet, measured lot line to lot line, from the
nearest Tattoo, Branding, Hookah Lounge, Drug Paraphernalia, Smoking Establishments or
establishment that serves, for consumption on site, unregulated psychoactive substances.
2. The use shall be located within a commercial shopping center building with the
combined floor area of all businesses being 30,000 square feet or more.
3. The use shall be located at least 2,500 feet, measured from lot line to lot line, from
the nearest Place of Worship, Park or Recreation Center, School, or Daycare Facility.
1162.08 LODGING-RELATED USES
1162.08.A. Bed and Breakfast Inn
1. A bed and breakfast shall not provide more than five (5) guest rooms, plus a common
area for use by all guests.
2. A bed and breakfast establishment shall be located only in a detached single-family
dwelling, designed and constructed for single family use, which shall contain at least 1,500
square feet of useable floor area. For each guest room in excess of two (2), an additional
100 square feet of floor area shall be required.
3. The bed and breakfast shall be the principal residence of the owner, who shall reside
there when the bed and breakfast is in operation. If the owner is not in residence in the
dwelling unit for 14 consecutive days or more, the bed and breakfast shall be closed until
the owner returns.
4. Meals shall be limited to breakfast and an evening snack, and shall be served only to
guests of the facility and members of the owner's family.
5. There shall be at least one (1) parking space provided for each guest room, in
addition to the parking spaces required to serve the principal residence.
6. One (1) sign in accordance with the requirements of Chapter 1163.
7. Cooking facilities are prohibited in bed and breakfast guest rooms.
8. Exterior refuse storage facilities shall be screened from view on all sides by a six (6)
foot solid decorative fence or wall or by other screening approved by the Planning and
Design Commission.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
9. In addition to the development plan required by this ordinance, a floor plan of the
dwelling units and the use of each room shall also be submitted with the conditional use
application.
1162.09 RECREATION AND AMUSEMENT-RELATED USES
1162.09.A. High Ceiling Indoor Commercial Recreation
Shall only be use for recreational activities that require ceiling heights higher than 20 feet.
1162.09.B. Outdoor Commercial Recreation.
1. The minimum front, side and rear setbacks shall be 50 feet for all buildings and
outdoor components of the recreational facility; provided, setbacks for any go-cart, vehicle
track or similar motorized activity shall be a minimum of 200 feet from any residential
district.
2. The minimum front, side and rear parking setbacks shall be 20 feet from adjacent
non-residential zoning districts and 50 feet from adjacent residential districts.
3. Lighting for night-time activity areas shall be directed and shielded so the light
source is not visible from any surrounding residential use. All lighting, including building
and security lighting shall conform to the requirements of Section 1161.10.
4. An operations plan describing the nature of the use, hours of operation, etc. shall be
provided.
1162.09.C. Sexually Oriented Businesses.
1. Intent.
The City of North Olmsted hereby recognizes that some uses, because of their very nature,
may have serious objectionable operational characteristics, particularly when they are
concentrated in a location, thereby causing a deleterious effect upon the adjacent areas.
The proximity of sexually oriented businesses to certain uses considered particularly
susceptible to the negative impacts of the concentration of sexually oriented uses tends to
erode the quality of life, adversely affect property values, disrupt business investment,
encourage residents and businesses to move or avoid the community, increase crime, and
contribute to a blighting effect on the surrounding area. There is convincing documented
evidence of the deleterious effect that sexually oriented businesses have on both existing
businesses around them and the surrounding residential areas to which they are adjacent.
Therefore, the following intents are served by these regulations:
a. This section describes the uses regulated and the specific standards necessary
to ensure that the adverse effects of these uses will not contribute to the
deterioration of the surrounding neighborhood, to prevent undesirable
concentration of these uses, and to require sufficient spacing from uses considered
most susceptible to negative impacts.
b. These provisions are not intended, nor shall they have the effect of, imposing a
limitation or restriction on the content of any communicative materials including,
but not limited to, sexually oriented materials that are protected by the First
Amendment to the United States Constitution.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
c. Additionally, it is not the intent of the provisions of this section, nor shall it have
the effect of, restricting or denying access by adults to sexually oriented materials
that are protected by said federal and state constitutions.
d. Further, it is not the intent of these provisions, nor shall they have the effect of,
denying access by the distributors and exhibitors of sexually oriented entertainment
to their target market.
2. Requirements.
A person wishing to operate a sexually oriented business within the City of North Olmsted
must obtain the following approvals:
a. A Conditional Use Permit, requiring review and recommendation by the Planning
and Design Commission and approval by City Council; and,
b. An Adult Entertainment Businesses license for such operations as required by
Chapter 761 of the Codified Ordinances of the City of North Olmsted and obtained
from the Director of Public Safety.
3. Uses Regulated.
a. Adult arcade.
b. Adult bath house.
c. Adult bookstore, novelty store, and video store.
d. Adult cabaret.
e. Adult motel.
f. Adult motion picture theater.
g. Adult theater.
h. Escort service.
i. Massage parlor.
j. Nude model studio.
k. Sexual encounter center.
l. Strip club or gentleman's club.
m. Uses determined by the Planning and Design Commission to be similar to the
uses listed above.
4. Conditional Standards of Approval.
a. A sexually oriented business may not operate as follows:
i. Within 500 feet of any property line of any lot in the City of North Olmsted,
which is either zoned single family residential, or upon which is located a
single family residence, church, playground, or school of any kind serving
children.
ii. Within 500 feet from any property line of any lot in the City of North
Olmsted which is either zoned for multi-family use or upon which is located
any multi-family residence.
iii. In a location in which any principal building or accessory structure,
including signs, is within 500 feet of any principal building or accessory
structure of another sexually oriented business.
iv. The location restriction shall not apply to multifamily residences more
than five (5) stories tall.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
v. The proposed sexually oriented business and any such zoned area or
existing use shall be measured in a straight line from the nearest property
line upon which the proposed sexually oriented business is to be located to
the nearest property line of that zoned area or existing use.
b. Any sign or advertising for the sexually oriented business must comply with the
provisions of this ordinance. No sign or advertising may include photographs,
silhouettes or drawings of any specified anatomical areas or specified sexual
activities or obscene representations of the human form and may not include
animated or flashing illumination.
c. The entrances to the proposed sexually oriented business at both the exterior and
interior walls, in a location visible to those entering and exiting the business, must
be clearly marked with lettering at least two (2) inches in height stating:
"Persons under the age of 18 are not permitted to enter the premises;" and
"No alcoholic beverages of any type are permitted within the premises."
d. No product or service for sale or gift, or any picture or other representation of any
product or service for sale or gift, shall be displayed so as to be visible by a person
of normal visual acuity from the nearest adjoining roadway or a neighboring
property.
e. No adult entertainment business may remain open at any time between the hours
of 1:00 a.m. and 6:00 a.m. on weekdays and Saturdays, and 1:00 a.m. and 10:00
a.m. on Sundays.
f. Off street and on-site parking areas shall comply with this ordinance, based on the
primary use as provided in Chapter 1161 and shall additionally be illuminated at all
times in compliance with Chapter 1161.
1162.10 INSTITUTIONAL-RELATED USES
1162.10.A. Schools, K-12
The purpose of these requirements is to integrate schools into the fabric of the City of
North Olmsted's neighborhoods, but not at the expense of the residential character of
those areas. Therefore, the scale of the school, parking lots and related uses shall be
compatible with abutting homes and in character with the surrounding neighborhood.
1. Minimum lot area shall be four (4) acres.
2. Minimum lot width shall be 200 feet.
3. Maximum building height may be up to 55 feet.
4. When located in a residential district, the front yard setback shall be not less than the
required front yard setback for any adjacent properties. All buildings, accessory structures
and outdoor activity areas (ball fields, tennis courts, playgrounds, bleachers, etc.) shall be
set back a minimum of 75 feet from any side or rear property line. All parking areas shall be
set back a minimum of 20 feet from any side or rear property line.
5. At least one (1) property line, meeting the minimum width requirement, shall abut and
have direct access to an arterial or collector street as defined in Table 1161.07-1.
6. To the extent practical, shared parking arrangements should be employed with other
uses in the vicinity, in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 1161.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
7. Lighting for night-time activity areas shall be directed and shielded so the light source is
not visible from any surrounding residential use. All lighting, including building and security
lighting shall conform to the requirements of Section 1161.10.
1162.10.B. Places of Worship.
The purpose of these requirements is to integrate places of worship into the fabric of the
City of North Olmsted's residential areas, but not at the expense of the residential
character of neighborhoods. Therefore, the scale of the facility, parking lots and related
uses shall be compatible with abutting homes and in character with the surrounding
neighborhood.
1. Minimum lot area shall be two (2) acres.
2. Minimum lot width shall be 200 feet.
3. When located in a residential district, the front yard setback shall be not less than the
required front yard setback for any adjacent properties. All buildings, accessory structures
and outdoor activity areas shall be set back a minimum of 50 feet from any side or rear
property line. All parking areas shall be set back a minimum of 20 feet from any side or rear
property line.
4. At least one (1) property line, meeting the minimum width requirement, shall abut and
have direct access to an arterial or collector street as defined in Table 1161.07-1.
5. To the extent practical, shared parking arrangements should be employed with other
uses in the vicinity, in accordance with the provisions of Chapter 1161.
1162.10.C. Colleges and universities
1. Minimum lot area shall be five (5) acres.
2. The use shall front on an arterial street as defined in Table 1161.07-1, and all access to
the property shall be from that street.
3. Buildings shall be located at least 100 feet from all property lines and parking lots shall
be located at least 50 feet from all property lines.
4. Landscaping and screening shall meet the requirements of Chapter 1139.
5. Parking shall meet the requirements of Chapter 1161.
1162.10.D. Hospital.
1. Minimum lot area shall be four (4) acres.
2. Minimum lot width shall be 200 feet.
3. When located in a residential district, the front yard setback shall be not less than 100
feet. All main and accessory buildings shall be set back a minimum of 100 feet from any
side or rear property line. All parking areas shall be set back a minimum of 50 feet from any
side or rear property line.
4. At least one (1) property line, meeting the minimum width requirement, shall abut and
have direct access to an arterial street as defined in Table 1161.07-1.
1162.11 RESIDENTIAL-RELATED USES
1162.11.A. Planned Development
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
1. Intent.
Planned Development Zoning is intended to encourage development property, allow
flexibility, more compact development, pedestrian-friendly site design, urban street
character, variety of housing typology, energy-efficient design, industry best practices, and
accommodation of a range of compatible land uses through appropriate site design. PDs
are intended to permit a more flexible approach to land use control and to promote
innovation and diversity of housing types.
2. Eligible Project Size.
Minimum parcel size or assemblage of parcels is 75,000 square feet.
3. The proposed PD should contain uses that are sensitive to the abutting land uses.
4. Mixed residential use within the planned development or within the same structure
located in the PD is encouraged where appropriate;
5. Subdivision Modifications.
The proposed PD shall comply with the subdivision requirements as set forth in Chapter
1101 of this Code and allow flexibility related to lot size, floor area, building height,
setbacks if a finding those modifications meet the intent of planned development
regulations and the following design principles.
6. Design Principles.
a. Building and Site Design.
i. Wherever feasible, buildings shall be designed to provide massing
configurations with a variety of different wall planes. Plain, monolithic
structures with long walls and roof plane surfaces are discouraged.
ii. Building facades should incorporate design elements such as changes in
color or texture; projections, recesses, and reveals; or equivalent elements
that subdivide the wall into human scale proportions. Blank facades are
highly discouraged on walls facing streets or pedestrian ways.
iii. Commercial Building facades shall have highly visible customer
entrances that feature canopies, overhangs, arcades, distinctive roof forms,
arches, display windows, or landscaped features. Primary entrances should
face streets on which they are located.
b. Vehicular Circulation and Access.
i. Circulation systems shall be designed to efficiently facilitate traffic flow, yet
designed to discourage speeds and volumes that impede pedestrian activity
and safety.
ii. Common or shared access points are encouraged.
iii. For Commercial Buildings, to the maximum extent feasible, common or
shared service and delivery access shall be provided between adjacent
parcels or buildings, and provided to the rear of buildings.
iv. Safe and adequate site distances shall be provided at all intersections.
c. Pedestrian Access and Circulation.
i. A coordinated pedestrian system shall be provided throughout the PD,
including connections between uses on the site, and between the site and
adjacent properties and rights-of-way where feasible.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
ii. For Commercial Buildings, continuous sidewalks or other pedestrian
facilities shall be provided between the primary entrances to buildings, all
parking areas that serve the buildings, and any public sidewalk along
perimeter streets.
d. Parking.
i. Adequate parking shall be provided, but excessive parking is discouraged. The
standards contained in Chapter 1161 shall be used as a guide, but those standards
may be modified without the need for a variance based upon other considerations
as determined by the Planning and Design Commission, and a finding by the
Commission that the modified parking standards would comply with the provisions
of the Code and the intent of the PD.
e. Streetscape Improvements.
i. A Streetscape Plan may be requested by the Director of Economic and Community
Development for mixed-use and/or commercial PD applications. The Streetscape
Plan shall address the relationship between vehicular and pedestrian traffic,
pedestrian facilities, street and sidewalk lighting, landscaping, street furniture, trash
receptacles, and transit stops.
ii. Vehicular streets shall be designed to be compatible with pedestrian ways to
encourage a pedestrian-friendly environment. The width of streets shall be sensitive
to pedestrian scale, and shall be minimized to avoid overwhelming that pedestrian
scale while allowing for efficient vehicular traffic flow.
f. Service Area and Mechanical Screening.
i. The location of service areas and mechanical equipment shall be considered as
part of the overall site design.
ii. Service areas and mechanical equipment shall be screened from public view.
g. Signage.
i. A master sign plan may be requested by the Director of Economic and Community
Development for mixed-use and/or commercial PD applications. The master sign
plan shall illustrate the location, type, size, and materials of all signage, pursuant to
Chapter 1163 and comply with all regulations therein.
h. Lighting.
i. A lighting plan, including a photometric illustration, may be requested by the
Director of Economic and Community Development.
ii. Lighting shall be designed to avoid spillover onto adjacent properties through the
use of cutoff shields or other similar features.
i. Urban Open Space.
i. Common open space (whether dedicated to public use or owned and maintained
in common by the owner or owners) shall be reserved for the leisure and
recreational use of all the project's occupants and readily accessible thereto.
j. Amenities.
i. PDs with residential uses should provide on-site amenities within the site open
space. These amenities may include but are not limited to: pocket parks, seating
areas, courtyards, play equipment, picnic shelter /barbecue area, or recreation
facilities
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
k. Utilities.
i. The proposed development shall provide, if possible, for underground installation
of utilities (including electricity and telephone) within both public ways and private
extensions thereof.
ii. Provisions also shall be made for acceptable design and construction of storm
water facilities including grading, gutter, piping, and treatment of turf and
maintenance of facilities. Stormwater facilities shall be designed and constructed in
compliance with Ohio Environmental Protection Agency regulations and local
ordinances.
1162.12 INDUSTRIAL RELATED USES
1162.12.A. Self-storage facilities, Mini-Warehouse or personal storage.
1. The minimum size of the site shall be not less than three (3) acres.
2. The facility shall front on an arterial or collector street as defined in Table 1161.07-1, and
all access to the property shall be from that street.
3. Storage of combustible or flammable liquids, combustible fibers or explosive materials,
as defined in the City's fire prevention code, or toxic materials shall not be permitted within
the self-storage buildings or upon the premises. However, storage of recreational vehicles
containing fuel and other automotive fluids is permitted.
4. The use of the premises shall be limited to storage of personal and business items,
except as otherwise provided, and shall not be used for operating a business, maintaining
or repairing vehicles or for any recreational activity or hobby.
5. Limited retail sales of products and supplies incidental to the principal use, such as
packing materials, packing labels, tape, rope, protective covers, locks and chains shall be
permitted within a central office.
6. Minimum separation between self-storage buildings shall be 24 feet. Internal drive aisles
shall be at least 24 feet wide and must be clearly marked to distinguish traffic flow.
7. Building design and materials shall be compatible with the existing and intended
character of the area.
8. To the maximum extent practical, storage unit doors shall not face public right-of-way.
9. Fences within front yards and any side yards adjacent to residential zoned property shall
be wrought iron or a similar decorative type. Chain-link or similar style fences are
prohibited.
1162.12.B. Cannabis Cultivation
1. The use shall be located at least 250 feet, measured lot line to lot line, from the nearest
Place of Worship, Park or Recreation Center, School or Daycare Facility.
2. No portion of the property upon which a Cannabis Cultivation is proposed shall be any
closer to another property containing an existing Cannabis Cultivation than 8,000 feet.
3. All cannabis cultivation shall occur within a secure and enclosed structure.
4. The use shall be operated in a manner that ensures no odor from cannabis or cannabis
products is detectable at the property line or beyond. Odor mitigation technology (e.g.,
carbon filtration systems) shall be continuously operated. Documentation on the system
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
and certification by an appropriated licensed professional that the system will meet this
standard shall be submitted with application. Any application that fails to submit such
documentation shall be deemed incomplete.
5. Evidence shall be provided that all applicable requirements of the State of Ohio
governing the licensing of the facility are met and the use shall be operated at all times in
accordance with state requirements.
1162.12.C. Datacenters
1. All data center operations, servers, and primary mechanical infrastructure, including
cooling units and power generation assets, shall be fully enclosed within a secure principal
structure or a sunken, fully-screened utility yard.
2. The use shall be operated in a manner that ensures zero measurable noise (in dBA) or
vibration above ambient background levels at the property line or beyond. Acoustic and
vibration mitigation engineering plans, certified by a licensed professional acoustical
engineer, shall be submitted with the application demonstrating full compliance with this
standard. Any application that fails to submit such documentation shall be deemed
incomplete.
3. All primary power generation, backup power generation, and microgrid assets (such as
fuel cells or micro-turbines) shall be operated entirely behind-the-meter as an independent
microgrid system, and all such generation and microgrid assets shall operate in
compliance with all applicable local, state, and federal environmental and emissions
standards.
4. Evidence shall be provided demonstrating compliance with all applicable local
electrical, utility interconnection, and life-safety codes prior to the issuance of a zoning
certificate.
1162.12.D. Non-intrusive industrial uses.
1. Any light industrial, assembly, prototyping, or specialized production activity that does
not fit into any other specifically enumerated use class shall be permitted only as a
conditional use, provided it meets all performance standards set forth herein.
2. Operational Confinement.
All operations, manufacturing, processing, assembly, storage, and material staging shall
occur entirely within a completely enclosed principal building. No outdoor storage of
materials, equipment, or finished products shall be permitted.
3. Performance Standards.
The use shall be operated in a strict manner that generates zero noxious or offensive
impacts at the property line or beyond, specifically including:
a. Noise. No measurable noise or vibration exceeding ambient background levels.
b. Odors, Dust, and Fumes. Zero detectable odors, dust, smoke, gas, or toxic fumes.
c. Glare and Heat. No direct glare, heat, or electrical interference perceptible
beyond the property boundaries.
4. Traffic and Delivery Compatibility. Commercial vehicle trips, deliveries, and loading
operations shall ensure compatibility with adjacent mixed-use or commercial corridors
without causing local congestion.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
1162.13 UTILITY-RELATED USES
1162.13.A. Public utility buildings, substations and subinstallations
1. The use shall be enclosed by a solid fence or wall at least six (6) feet in height above
finished grade.
2. Other uses including but not limited to office, commercial operations and storage of
vehicles or equipment shall not be permitted on the premises.
3. Landscaping and screening shall meet the requirements of Chapter 1139.
1162.13.B. Wireless Telecommunications
1. Monopole Requirement.
All freestanding Wireless Telecommunication Towers shall be constructed exclusively as a
monopole design, as opposed to a lattice or guy-wired structure.
2. Setbacks.
Wireless towers must be located a minimum distance of 1.1 times the height of the tower
from any dwelling unit.
3. Buffering
Landscape buffering shall meet the requirements of 1165.07.
4. Color and Finish.
The color of a tower and its antennas shall be determined by the Planning and Design
Commission to minimize visual impact, unless otherwise required by the Federal
Communications Commission (FCC) or Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
5. Engineering Certification and Safety Compliance.
A comprehensive report and engineering plans shall be prepared, signed, and sealed by a
qualified and licensed professional engineer, providing proof of full compliance comply
with all current Federal Communications Commission (FCC) standards and regulations,
meet or exceed all applicable structural integrity and safety standards and with all
applicable federal, state, county, and City laws, codes, and regulations.
1162.14 TRANSPORTATION-RELATED USES
1162.14.A Commercial Parking Lot or Structure.
1. Support adjacent Uses.
Facility must support parking needs of adjacent uses that do not have off-street parking. If
adjacent uses have off-street parking, then a parking study will be required to demonstrate
need.
2. Street Activation.
Placement, design and use of space shall support street activation and pedestrian activity
in the area. Any frontage along a street shall have either first floor retail, restaurant or
entertainment. Office or professional services uses may also be considered. These first
floor uses shall occupy at least the front 20 feet.
1162.15 AGRICULTURAL-RELATED USES
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
1162.16 ADAPTIVE-RELATED USES
1162.16.A Adaptive Commercial Reuse.
The purpose of these requirements is to permit the flexible modernization, reuse, and
appropriate expansion of nonconforming buildings to support community revitalization,
infill development, and City's comprehensive planning goals.
1. Existing Structure.
At least 50% of the existing structure is preserved.
2. Contextual Scale and Massing.
Any side, rear, or vertical additions shall respect the scale, rhythm, and proportion of
surrounding structures, ensuring that nonconforming expansions do not visually
overwhelm adjacent properties.
3. Design Transitions.
Development shall balance form with surrounding context, ensuring that older building
footprints are modernized without disrupting neighborhood character. Adjustments can be
considered when neighborhood development patterns support adjustments to setbacks,
height or lot coverage.
4. Street Activation.
Projects shall encourage a continuous street wall, supporting walkability and active
ground-use frontage. The reviewing authority may be flexible in the use or mix of uses
proposed that support street activation requirement.
5. Landscaping.
Projects shall comply with the landscaping requirements of 1165.
6. Feature Preservation.
Development shall preserve any historical or original features of the structure that add to
the neighborhood character.
1162.16.B. Adaptive Residential Reuse.
1. Purpose.
The purpose of these requirements is to permit the flexible conversion and adaptive reuse
of nonconforming or underutilized commercial, institutional, or historic structures into
residential dwelling units. These standards ensure that residential conversions are
compatible with the scale and character, protect neighborhood privacy, and maintain high-
quality architectural design.
2. Existing Structure.
At least 65% of the existing structure is preserved.
3. Unit Restrictions.
Conversion shall be restricted to a maximum of four (4) dwelling units per structure, unless
located in a higher-density mixed-use district.
4. Contextual Scale and Massing.
Any side, rear, or vertical additions shall respect the scale, rhythm, and proportion of
surrounding structures, ensuring that expansions do not visually overwhelm adjacent
properties.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
5. Landscaping.
Projects shall comply with the landscaping requirements of 1165.
6. Feature Preservation.
Original architectural features, historic windows, porches, and entryways that contribute to
neighborhood character shall be preserved and restored.
1162.17 ACCESSORY USES AND STRUCTURES
1162.17.A. Drive-Through.
1. Sufficient vehicular stacking capacity for the drive-in or drive-through portion of the
operation shall be provided to ensure that traffic does not extend into the public right-of-
way.
Use
Min. Stacking Spaces
Min. Waiting Spaces
Food-related
8
3
Service-related
3
0
Office-related
3
0
2. Stacking spaces shall be located so as not to interfere with vehicular circulation, fire
lanes, parking spaces and egress from the property by vehicles not using the drive-in or
drive-through portion of the facility.
3. Waiting spaces shall be provided in close proximity to the exit of the pick-up window to
allow for customers waiting for delivery of orders.
4. Internal circulation and ingress/egress from the site shall not substantially impair the
movement of other modes of transportation, such as bicycles and pedestrians, to and
through the site.
5. Any speakers for the transmission or broadcasting of voices or music shall be oriented
and/or muffled to prevent sound from being audible beyond the boundaries of the site.
1162.17.B. Sales of Used Commercial Trucks, Recreational Vehicles, Construction
Equipment, Farm implements AND Similar used Vehicles and Equipment.
1. Showrooms and lots for the sale of used commercial vehicles shall be located either on
a parcel of land upon which an existing showroom and/or lot for the sale of new
commercial vehicles is located or upon a parcel of land which is physically contiguous to a
parcel of land containing an existing showroom and lot for the sale of new commercial
vehicles.
2. The minimum lot size shall be three (3) acres with a minimum lot width of 350 feet.
3. The use shall be located on an arterial street and all access to the property shall be from
that arterial street as designated in Table 1161.07-1.
4. Flags, pennants, balloons, ribbons, search lights, strings of lights or other distracting
devices are not permitted.
5. Outdoor displays shall conform to the following:
a. Vehicles, for sale or otherwise, shall be parked on approved paved surfaces.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
b. Vehicle display or storage shall not be allowed in areas required for visitor,
employee or service parking.
c. All other merchandise available for sale, including, but not limited to, clothing,
accessories, tires, collectibles, etc. shall be sold and displayed within an enclosed
building.
d. Accessory service work, including vehicle washing, repair and general
maintenance, shall be conducted entirely within an enclosed building.
6. Audible paging systems or outdoor speakers are prohibited. Vehicles stored on the site
shall not be located by employees using audible methods such as keyless entry systems.
1162.17.C. Contractor’s Yard or Accessory Outdoor Storage.
1. Permanent outdoor storage areas shall be attached to and be considered part of the
principal building relative to all setback requirements. The storage area shall be fenced
with a decorative fence or wall at least six (6), but no more than eight (8), feet in height.
Chain-link, or similar style fences, are prohibited. Stored materials and stockpiles shall not
be piled or stacked higher than the height of the obscuring screen.
2. The outdoor storage area shall be arranged to provide safe pedestrian and vehicular
circulation and safe emergency access. Maneuvering aisles shall be kept free of all
obstruction.
3. The storage of soil, sand, mulch and similar loosely packaged materials shall be
contained and covered to prevent it from blowing into adjacent properties. The outdoor
storage of fertilizers, pesticides and other hazardous materials, unless packaged in
approved containers, is prohibited.
4. Lighting for security purposes may be required, as determined by the Planning and
Design Commission. All lighting shall conform to the requirements of Section 1161.10.
1162.17.D. Accessory Outdoor Display.
1. Outdoor display areas shall be arranged to provide safe pedestrian and vehicular
circulation and safe emergency access. Maneuvering aisles shall be kept free of all
obstruction.
2. Outdoor display shall not be permitted within any required yard areas. Furthermore, no
outdoor display area shall be located within 50 feet of any residential district boundary line.
3. Outdoor display areas located on parking lots shall not reduce the available parking
spaces to fewer than those required by Chapter 1161 for the principal use.
4. All outdoor display areas shall be paved with a permanent, durable and dustless surface
of asphalt or concrete and shall be graded and drained to dispose of all surface water.
5. All loading and truck maneuvering shall be accommodated on-site. Maneuvering in the
public right-of-way is prohibited.
6. Lighting for security purposes may be required, as determined by the Planning and
Design Commission. All lighting shall conform to the requirements of Section 1161.10.
1162.17.E. Open-Air Market or Farmer’s Market
1. Location.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
The use shall be located on private property, under the management of the property owner
or with a written agreement with the property owner. Public property may not be used for a
market unless approved by the City Council.
2. Operation.
The use shall be limited to one day per week. No vendors may sell before 8:00 am or after 7
pm.
3. Waste.
The use shall provide for composting, recycling, and waste removal in accordance with all
applicable health codes. The manager shall be responsible for ensuring that the site is
restored to a neat condition by no later than the end of the day.
4. Noise.
Public address systems, live amplified music or other systems intended to convey verbal
messages through the use of amplified sound shall be prohibited.
5. Parking Management.
Existing off-street parking and on-street parking shall be used in commercial districts.
Parking shall not overflow into residential neighborhoods. Applicant must submit a parking
management plan that details parking for vendors, parking for customers and overflow
parking. Written agreements with property owners are required for off-street parking.
6. Fire Safety.
Fire hydrants and fire hose couplings and/or connections on buildings shall not be
obstructed.
---
[CHAPTER 1126 Plan Review Types and Procedures.pdf]
DRAFT FOR PDC DISCUSSION 7/22/2026
CHAPTER 1126
Plan Review Types and Procedures
1126.01
Purpose
1126.02
Review Criteria
1126.03
General Submittal Requirements
1126.04
Pre-Application.
1126.05
Letter of Zoning Verification.
1126.06
Minor Development Plan Review.
1126.07
Major Development Plan Review.
1126.08
Development Plan Review Amendment.
1126.09
Conditional Uses
1126.10
Variance.
1126.11
Zoning Text or Map Amendment.
1126.12
Building Permit.
1126.13
Certificate of Occupancy.
1126.14
Expiration and Extensions.
1126.15
Compliance with Approved Plans.
1126.01 PURPOSE
The purpose of this chapter is to establish a uniform set of requirements for the planning
and design of developments within the community in order to achieve the following
objectives:
A. To protect the health, safety, morals and general welfare of the City;
B. To ensure compliance with the provisions of this ordinance;
C. To achieve the purposes of the City of North Olmsted Master Plan;
D. To promote the orderly and harmonious development of the City;
E. To prevent depreciation of land values;
F. To ensure a consistent level of quality throughout the community;
G. To protect the natural and built environment; and
H. To promote consultation and cooperation between applicants and the City so that
applicants may accomplish their objectives in the utilization of land, consistent with
the public purposes of this ordinance and the Master Plan.
1126.02 REVIEW CRITERIA
1126.02.A General Review Criteria.
Approval of a development plan, variances, zoning Amendments shall be granted only if the
development plan meets all applicable requirements outlined below. Unless a more
specific standard is provided in this ordinance, all uses, and structures subject to
development plan review shall comply with the following standards:
DRAFT FOR PDC DISCUSSION 7/22/2026
Table 1126.02.A-1 General Review Criteria
Criteria
Standards
1) Consistency with
the Comprehensive
Plan
All development shall be designed, constructed and maintained in conformance with the
applicable guidelines and standards established by the City of North Olmsted Master Plan.
2) Harmonious and
Compatible Design
The development must be designed in a manner that is harmonious and compatible to the
greatest extent reasonably possible, with the character of the surrounding area.
3) Compatibility of
Uses and Structures
The development is planned so land uses and densities create an appropriate transition to
existing or planned uses and densities on adjoining properties.
4) Minimize Hazards
The development must be designed so as to reasonably minimize hazards to adjacent property
and to reasonably reduce the negative effects of traffic, noise, smoke, fumes and glare to the
maximum extent possible.
5) Traffic Circulation
The number, location, size of access and entry points, and internal vehicular and pedestrian
circulation routes shall be designed to promote safe and efficient access to and from the
development, and circulation within the development. In reviewing traffic features, the number,
spacing and alignment of existing and proposed access points shall be considered relative to
their impact on traffic movement on abutting streets and adjacent properties.
6) Integration with
Transportation
System
Mixed use developments shall be designed to integrate into the adjacent transportation system
relative to:
1. Pedestrian connections to ensure accessibility to current or planned transit service, if
applicable;
2. Connectivity to existing and planned roadways, sidewalks and pathways;
3. Compatibility with the regional transportation system of arterial and collector streets;
Complete streets roadway design that accommodates multiple transportation modes;
4. Strategic locations of parking lots and structures; and
5. Access management to provide internal connections between uses and prohibit individual
driveway access to perimeter roads.
7) Storm Water
Storm water detention and drainage systems shall be designed so the removal of surface waters
will not have adverse effects on neighboring properties or public storm water drainage systems.
8) Landscaping
The landscape shall be preserved in its natural state, insofar as practicable, by minimizing
unnecessary tree and soil removal, and any grade changes shall be in keeping with the general
appearance of neighboring developed areas. Protection or preservation of existing landscaping,
buffers or street lawns may be required to ensure that the proposed uses will be adequately
buffered from one another and from surrounding property.
9) Buffers
Where non-residential uses abut residential uses, appropriate buffering and screening shall be
provided, so as to shield residential properties from noise, headlights and glare.
10) Lighting
Lighting shall be designed to minimize glare on adjacent properties and public streets. As a
condition of development plan approval, reduction of lighting during non-business hours may be
required.
11) Utility Service
All interior utility service shall be underground.
12) Exterior Uses
Exposed storage areas, machinery, heating and cooling units, service areas, loading areas, utility
buildings and structures, and similar accessory areas shall be located to have a minimum
negative effect on adjacent properties and shall be screened as reasonably necessary to ensure
compatibility with surrounding properties.
13) Emergency
Access
All buildings and structures shall be readily accessible to emergency vehicles.
14) Water and
Sewer
Water and sewer installations shall comply with all City specifications and requirements.
DRAFT FOR PDC DISCUSSION 7/22/2026
15) Impact on
Infrastructure
The development is staged in a manner that allows for and facilitates the timely provision of
public utilities, facilities and services.
16) Signs
Permitted signs shall be located to avoid creating distractions and visual clutter.
1126.02.B Conditional Use Review Criteria
In addition to the general review criteria (1126.02), approval of conditional uses shall be
granted only if the particular circumstances and facts applicable to each proposed
conditional use with respect to the following general standards:
1. The proposed use is physically and operationally compatible with the surrounding
neighborhood and abutting uses.
2. The proposed use will not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, equipment and
conditions of operations that will be detrimental to any persons, property or the general
welfare by reason of excessive production of traffic, noise, smoke, fumes, glare, odor or
other characteristic not comparable to the uses permitted in the base zoning district. A use
which produces smoke, fumes, glare or odor shall be considered detrimental to other
persons or property if it is objectionable to a reasonable person of ordinary sensibilities.
3. The use can be accommodated on the site consistent with all applicable design
standards and in conformance with all development regulations for the district in which it
will be located.
4. The proposed use will not impede the normal and orderly development and
improvement of the surrounding property for uses permitted in the district.
5. On-site and off-site traffic generation and circulation patterns shall not adversely impact
adjacent uses or result in hazardous conditions for pedestrians or vehicles in or adjacent to
the site.
6. The use will be adequately served by public facilities and services including, but not
limited to, water, sewer, electric, schools, streets, fire and police protection, storm
drainage, public transit and public parks/trails.
7. Any additional requirements codified in Chapter 1162, specific to the proposed
conditional use.
1126.02.C Additional Conditions.
During the review, City Council may impose additional requirements on a proposed
conditional use to ensure that potential significant adverse impacts on surrounding
existing uses will be reduced to the maximum extent feasible, including, but not limited to,
conditions or measures addressing:
1. Location on a site of activities that generate potential adverse impacts such as noise,
odor and glare;
2. Hours of operation and deliveries;
3. Location of loading and delivery zones;
4. Light intensity and hours of full illumination;
5. Litter control and placement of trash receptacles;
6. On-site parking configuration and facilities;
7. On-site circulation;
8. Vehicular access to the site;
DRAFT FOR PDC DISCUSSION 7/22/2026
9. Privacy concerns of adjacent uses; and
10. Other conditions as determined appropriate by City Council as related to each
application.
1126.03 GENERAL SUBMITTAL REQUIREMENTS.
1126.03.A. Complete Submission Requirements
In order for the reviewing authority to process an application it shall be substantially
complete and contain the necessary information sufficient to meet submittal standards.
Table 1126.01-1 provides the minimum required documentation required to determine if an
application is substantially complete.
Table 1126.03.A-1 Complete Submission Requirements
Pre-Application
Letter of Zoning Verification
Minor Development Plan Review
Major Development Plan Review
Development Plan Review Amendment
Conditional Use
Variance
Zoning Text Amendment
Zoning Map Amendment
Signage Permit
Building Permit
Online Application
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Required Fee
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Pre-Application Number
X
X
X
X
X
X
Approved Development Plan Review
Number
X
Property Owner Consent Letter
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
A-2 Survey- Existing Conditions
X
X
X
Simple Site Plan(s)
X
X
X
Detailed Site Plan(s) with Professional
Seal
X
X
Building Elevations and Footprint
X
X
Building Construction Documents
with Professional Seal
X
Information on Building Materials
X
Landscaping Plan(s)
X
X
Lighting Plan(s)
X
X
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Utility Plan(s)
X
X
Signage Plan(s)
X
Development Plan Amendment
X
Hardship Statement
X
Existing and Proposed Zoning Text
X
Existing and Proposed Zoning Map
X
1126.03.B. Minimum Standards for Submittals
1. Property Owner Consent Letter
a. Online Application Form bearing electronic signature(s) of the owner(s) of record,
or letter of authorization from the owner to a designated agent.
2. A-2 Survey- Existing Conditions
a. A-2 boundary survey of the premises or parcel of land prepared, stamped with an
embossed seal and signed by a Ohio-licensed land surveyor
3. Simple Site Plan(s)- A electronic document in pdf format shall include:
a. The location of the property in relation to surrounding areas;
b. Existing and/or proposed buildings, structures, and appurtenances thereof,
c. Existing and/or proposed parking and loading accommodations,
d. Existing and proposed landscape plan
e. Site data chart showing total and net lot area, proposed coverage, impervious
surface, floor area, height, setbacks and parking calculations.
4. Detailed Site Plan(s) with Professional Seal-
a. key map showing the location of the property in relation to surrounding areas,
b. Existing and proposed contour elevations with two (2) foot contour intervals;
c. Site data chart showing total and net lot area, proposed coverage, impervious
surface, floor area, height, setbacks and parking calculations.
d. Existing and/or proposed buildings, structures, and appurtenances thereof, on
the site and within 100 feet of the site
e. Existing and/or proposed parking and loading accommodations,
f. Access and egress details for pedestrian and vehicular traffic,
g. Location of existing and proposed signs,
h. Location of adjacent roads, curb cuts, and width of rights-of-way and travel way;
i. Site drainage plans and details;
j. Location of soil types, including identified wetlands;
k. Location of watercourses and flood boundaries;
l. Provisions for refuse disposal;
m. Limits of vegetation coverage and location of any significant trees to be retained
and/or to be removed;
n. Zoning classification of applicant's parcel and all abutting parcels.
5. Building Elevations and Footprint
a. preliminary architectural plans at acceptable scale showing floor plans and
exterior elevations of buildings and indicating building materials, textures and color
of all building façades, fenestration, roofs and other appurtenances.
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6. Building Construction Documents with Professional Seal
7. Information on Building Materials
8. Landscaping Plan(s)
a. General location and canopy outline of all existing woodlands, with an
identification of trees to be removed and trees to be preserved.
b. Description of methods to preserve existing trees.
c. Location of existing and proposed lawns and landscaped areas, including
percentage of lot area.
d. Planting plan, including number, location and type of all proposed shrubs, trees
and other live plant material with planting details.
e. Notation of required tree lawns, buffers and screening and calculation of required
plants.
9. Lighting Plan(s)
a. Site lighting details including an iso-footcandle plan and manufacturer’s cut
sheets.
10. Utility Plan(s)
a. Location of existing and proposed sanitary sewers.
b. Location of underground storm sewers and drains.
c. Location and size of existing and proposed water service and fire suppression
systems.
d. Fire service features on site, including fire hydrants and fire connections mounted
on buildings.
e. Storm water retention and detention ponds.
f. Location of above and below ground gas, electric and telephone lines, existing and
proposed.
g. Location of transformers and utility boxes.
11. Signage Plan(s)
12. Development Plan Amendment
a. A list of all proposed amendments and changes
b. Site Plans with the proposed change identified
13. Hardship Statement
a. Does the land itself, not the owner's plans, create the problem?
b. Would denying the variance take away a real property right?
c. Would granting the variance still honor the intent of the Zoning Code?
14. Existing and Proposed Zoning Text
15. Existing and Proposed Zoning Map
a. a map at an appropriate scale showing:
i. the property proposed to be rezoned indicating the existing zoning district
designation, the proposed boundary line(s), and the proposed zoning district
designation.
ii. a key map showing the location of the property in relation to surrounding
areas,
iii. properties within 500 feet in all directions of the premises proposed to be
rezoned
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1126.03.C. Additional Submittals
Notwithstanding the requirements of Section 1126.03 and Table 1126.03-1, the Director
may request additional information as may be required to determine compliance with the
applicable regulations. Additional information that may be required includes but not
limited to:
1. Traffic impact analysis.
a. TIA Required. Unless exempted by Section 1161.08.D, a Traffic Impact Analysis
(TIA) shall be required for any development anticipated to generate more than 100
peak hour in-bound or out-bound trips, based on the most recent edition of the Trip
Generation Manual published by the Institute of Transportation Engineers.
b. Redevelopment. In the case of redevelopment, trip generation will be defined as
the number of net new trips generated by the proposed use beyond the trips
generated by the previous use, unless the previous use has been discontinued for
more than 12 months.
c. Other Circumstances. The Planning and Development Director may waive the
requirement to complete a TIA, or may require a TIA to be submitted for
developments not exceeding 100 peak hour directional trips, based upon localized
safety, operational, or street capacity issues, including levels of service (LOS) of
existing roadways.
d. Exemptions. The TIA requirement will be waived for previously approved
developments for which a TIA was submitted in conjunction with a preliminary plat
for subdivision, final development plan, or mixed use development provided the TIA
is less than two (2) years old.
e. Procedure. The TIA shall be submitted along with applications for a preliminary
plat, development plan review, or mixed use concept plan. The TIA shall be prepared
by a professional transportation engineer, licensed in the State of Ohio and shall, at
a minimum:
i. Estimate the traffic that will be generated as a result of the proposed
development in addition to current (background) traffic volumes and
proposed developments in the immediate vicinity. The Planning and
Development Director and/or ODOT may also specify annual growth factors
to be used in the TIA;
ii. Evaluate site access and internal circulation;
iii. Evaluate the ability of the surrounding road network to support the
proposed development and the cumulative traffic of current and other
projected uses; and
iv. Identify specific improvements to the surrounding road network that are
necessary in order to support the traffic anticipated to be generated.
f. TIA Submission for Projects with Cumulative Impacts. A TIA shall be required for
development projects that do not otherwise meet the thresholds of a TIA if the
application is for a project that:
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i. Shares features such as site access, common ownership, or other
infrastructure with nearby undeveloped property for which future
development can be reasonably anticipated; and
ii. The cumulative impact of the overall development can be expected to
exceed the threshold for preparation of a TIA.
2. Market study.
a. Market Study Required.
The reviewing authority may require a formal Market Study for any major
commercial, retail, mixed-use development or for any conditional use where
economic viability, saturation, or local market demand impact is a material factor in
land-use compatibility.
b. Qualifications.
The market study shall be prepared by a qualified, independent real estate
economic analyst or professional market researcher with demonstrated expertise in
commercial real estate market analysis.
c. Minimum Contents.
At a minimum, the market study shall include:
i. A defined trade area supported by demographic, population growth, and
income projections;
ii. An evaluation of existing and projected supply and demand for the
proposed use within the trade area, including vacancy rates and competitive
property analysis;
iii. An assessment of the economic feasibility of the project and its
absorption rate; and
iv. An evaluation of potential blight, market cannibalization, or long-term
vacancy impacts on surrounding commercial corridors.
3. Parking study.
a. Parking Study Required.
A parking demand study may be required for any development requesting a
reduction in minimum parking requirements, utilizing shared parking, proposing
alternative parking standards, or for any high-intensity use to accurately determine
actual peak demand.
b. Qualifications: The parking study shall be prepared by a professional
transportation engineer or certified parking planner.
c. Minimum Contents: At a minimum, the parking study shall include:
i. Peak parking demand generation rates based on empirical data from
comparable developments of similar scale, use, and geographic/transit
context (using Urban Land Institute [ULI] or Institute of Transportation
Engineers [ITE] methodologies);
ii. An analysis of hourly, daily, and seasonal fluctuations in parking demand
for multi-tenant or mixed-use developments demonstrating opportunities for
shared parking efficiencies;
iii. An inventory of existing on-street and off-street public or private parking
supply within a 600-foot walking radius of the primary building entrance; and
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iv. A pedestrian and micro-mobility accessibility assessment illustrating how
alternative transportation modes (such as transit proximity, bike
infrastructure, and walkability) reduce baseline automobile parking demand.
1126.06.C. Modification to Submission Requirements
Upon written request, the Director of Economic and Community Development may reduce
the submittal requirements, provided sufficient documentation is submitted to determine
compliance with the applicable regulations.
1126.04 PRE-APPLICATION.
1126.04.A. Applicability
All Development Plan Reviews (Minor, Major and Amendment), Variances, Zoning
Amendments (Text and Map) shall require a pre-application.
1126.04.B. Submittal Requirements
Minimum submittal requirements for a Pre-Application shall be as set forth in Section
1126.03 and Table 1126.03-1.
1126.04.C. Proceedings
1. Reviewing Departments.
Upon submission, the Department of Planning shall transmit materials to other
departments for review and written comments from the following Departments:
a. Planning Department
b. Engineering Department
c. Fire Department
d. Police Department
e. Building Department
f. Law Department- Variances, Zoning Text Amendment and Zoning Map
Amendment proposals only.
2. Timeline.
Departments shall have 7 days to submit written comments and questions.
3. Report.
The Department of Economic and Community Development will prepare a report
summarizing to the extent possible:
a. Pre-Application Guidance
The pre-application review is a preliminary overview of the proposal with guidance
on a potential approval process. The guidance may consist of:
i. Recommendations regarding proposal compliance or lack of compliance
with the regulation of North Olmsted;
ii. Recommended approval process
iii. Missing information
iv. Comments and questions from Departments
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1126.05 LETTER OF ZONING VERIFICATION.
1126.05.A. Applicability
Upon written request the Department of Economic and Community Development may
issue a Letter of Zoning Verification to confirm, to the extent possible, the current zoning
status of a property. The letter of zoning verification is not an approval of existing or
proposed uses or improvements.
1126.05.B. Submittal Requirements
Minimum submittal requirements for a Letter of Zoning Verification shall be as set forth in
Section 1126.03 and Table 1126.03-1.
1126.05.C. Proceedings
1. Upon submission, the Department of Planning determine the current zoning status of the
property; and
2. The Letter of Zoning Verification shall be issued within 30 days of the receipt of a
complete application.
1126.05.D. Review Criteria
1. Determine the zoning district;
2. Current known use of the property;
3. Current known nonconformities.
1126.06 MINOR DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW
1126.06.A. Applicability.
The Director of Economic and Community Development shall review development plans in
connection with the creation of a use or the erection of a building or structure in any of the
following circumstances:
1. In MAMU, B3, B4, MUC districts, Principal and accessory buildings less than 50,000
square feet that will accommodate a use permitted by right;
2. All other district, Principal and accessory buildings less than 3,000 square feet that will
accommodate a use permitted by right;
3. Additions to existing buildings less than 3,000 square feet;
4. Alterations to existing buildings;
5. Changes in the use of any existing building in any zoning district, provided the use is a
permitted use in that zoning district;
6. Expansion of existing off-street parking areas, provided no change is proposed to the
number or location of existing driveways and such parking expansion does not encroach
into any required buffer yard; or
7. When, in the opinion of the Planning and Development Director, a project which
otherwise qualifies for minor development plan review may have an impact on surrounding
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properties, he/she may, in their sole discretion, submit the development plan to City
Council for review.
1126.06.B. Exceptions
Minor Development Plan Review shall not apply to permitted as of right one-family or two-
family residential dwelling, residential accessory building(s) or home occupations.
1126.06.C. Submittal Requirements
Minimum submittal requirements for a Minor Development Plan Review shall be as set
forth in Section 1126.03 and Table 1126.03-1.
1126.06.D. Proceedings
1. Application Submittal.
The applicant shall submit the development plan application and all required submittals as
set forth in Section 1126.03, in a format and number specified by the City on the
application form. The application shall include the required fees and deposits as
determined by City Council. The Director of Economic and Community Development shall
distribute the plans to obtain comments from City staff and consultants, as necessary.
2. Staff Review.
The Planning and Development Director may require the applicant attend a staff review
meeting based on the nature of the development being proposed. The purpose of this
meeting will be to discuss the proposed development project, zoning requirements and
review standards. The applicant may be required to submit revised exhibits, as determined
in the staff review meeting.
3. Decision.
Upon receipt of a final submittal, the Director of Economic and Community Development
shall review the development plan for completeness based on the requirements set forth in
Section 1126.03.
a. The Director of Economic and Community Development shall consider the
development plan, comments received and the applicable standards of this
ordinance and shall either approve the development plan as submitted if all
applicable requirements and standards have been met; approve the development
plan with conditions; or deny approval of the development plan, if applicable
requirements and standards have not been met. The Director of Economic and
Community Development 's review shall be based on the requirements of this
chapter and, specifically, the review standards of Section 1126.02.
b. The reasons for the Director of Economic and Community Development 's action,
along with any conditions that may be attached, shall be stated in writing and
provided to the applicant within ten (10) business days of receipt of the final
submittal. Conditions which are designed to ensure compliance with the intent of
this ordinance and other regulations of the City may be imposed during
development plan approval. Conditions imposed shall be based on the Review
Criteria in 1126.02
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c. If approved, a Development Plan Review Approval shall be issued by the Director
of Economic and Community Development.
4. Appeals.
Any request to appeal a decision made by the Director of Economic and Community
Development shall be provided to the City in writing within ten (10) business days of the
date of the decision. Appeals of administrative reviews shall be made by application to the
Planning and Design Commission.
1126.07 MAJOR DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW.
1126.07.A. Applicability.
Any development plans not considered a Minor Development Plan Review, Section 1126.06
and any Conditional Use or Conditional Accessory Use review. Major Development Plan
Review shall not apply to permitted as of right one-family or two-family residential dwelling,
residential accessory building(s) or home occupations.
1126.07.B. Submittal Requirements.
Minimum submittal requirements for a Major Development Plan Review shall be as set
forth in Section 1126.03 and Table 1126.03-1.
1126.07.C. Proceedings.
1. Application Submittal. The applicant shall submit the development plan application and
all required submittals as set forth in Section 1126.03, in a format and number specified by
the City on the application form. The application shall include the required fees and
deposits as determined by City Council.
2. Staff Review. Upon receipt of an application, the Director of Economic and Community
Development shall review the development plan for completeness against the required
application materials as set forth in Section 1126.03 for development plan review. The
Director of Economic and Community Development and all applicable reviewing
authorities, including but not limited to the Law Director, City Engineer, Fire Marshal and
Building Commissioner, shall review the application and associated materials. The Director
of Economic and Community Development may require the applicant attend a staff review
meeting based on the nature and complexity of the development being proposed.
a. If, following staff review, the application is deemed complete, it shall be placed
on the next available Planning and Design Commission agenda.
b. If, following staff review, the application is deemed incomplete, the applicant
shall be informed of the outstanding submittal requirements that resulted in the
determination. If a complete application is not submitted at least two (2) weeks
prior to the Planning and Design Commission meeting in which the application is to
be considered, the application will be held until all required documentation has
been provided.
3. Variances.
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Should the development necessitate a variance, the variance must be approved prior to the
development plan review by the Planning and Design Commission.
4. Planning and Design Commission Review.
If a variance is not requested, a public meeting shall be held in accordance with the notice
provisions of Chapter 149 of the Codified Ordinances.
a. The Director of Economic and Community Development shall prepare a report for
the Planning and Design Commission's review. The staff report and application
materials shall be distributed to the Planning and Design Commission prior to the
public hearing.
b. The Planning and Design Commission shall consider the development plan
against the requirements of this ordinance, the review standards of this chapter and
the standards for conditional use permits, if applicable. The Planning and Design
Commission shall make a recommendation to City Council on the application.
5. City Council Action.
City Council shall review the application, staff report and comments by members of the
Planning and Design Commission and public and make a final decision on the application.
City Council shall consider the development plan against the requirements of this
ordinance, the review standards of this chapter and the standards for conditional use
permits, if applicable.
a. If approved, a Development Plan Review Approval shall be issued by the Director
of Economic and Community Development.
b. If the plan is approved with conditions, a Development Plan Review Approval shall
be issued by the Director of Economic and Community Development prior to the
issuance of any permits.
6. Appeals.
The decision of City Council shall be final and may only be reviewed by a Court of Common
Pleas, pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 2506 of the Ohio Revised Code.
1126.08 DEVELOPMENT PLAN REVIEW AMENDMENT.
1126.08.A. Applicability.
Amendments to an approved development plan shall be permitted only where the holder of
an approved development plan notifies the Director of Economic and Community
Development of any proposed changes.
1126.08.B. Submittal Requirements
Minimum submittal requirements for a Development Plan Review Amendment shall be as
set forth in Section 1126.03 and Table 1126.03-1.
1126.08.C. Proceedings
1. Changes to an Minor Development Review Plan.
Proposed changes to a development plan approved administratively may be approved by
the Planning and Development Director.
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2. Changes to a Major Development Review Plan.
Proposed changes to a development plan approved by City Council shall be reviewed as
follows:
a. Minor Changes. Minor changes may be approved by the Director of Economic and
Community Development upon determining that the proposed revision(s) will not
alter the basic design and character of the development plan, nor any specified
conditions imposed as part of the original approval. Minor changes shall include the
following:
i. Reduction in size of any building and/or other structures.
ii. Movement of buildings or other structures by no more than ten (10) feet.
iii. Landscaping approved on the development plan that is replaced by
similar landscaping to an equal or greater extent.
iii. Changes in building materials to a comparable or higher quality material.
iv. Internal re-arrangement of a parking lot that does not affect the number of
parking spaces or alter access locations or design.
v. Changes related to required or requested by the City or County, State, or
federal regulatory agency in order to conform to other laws or regulations,
provided such changes do not alter the basic design and character of the
plan, nor any specified conditions imposed as part of the original approval.
b. Major Changes. Major changes are changes that fall outside the scope of minor
changes as defined in this section as determined by the Director of Economic and
Community Development. Major changes shall be reviewed in the same manner as
the original application, including review by the Planning and Design Commission.
1126.09 CONDITIONAL USE
1126.09.A. Applicability.
Certain uses more intensely affect the surrounding area in which they are located than
permitted uses in the same zoning district. If properly controlled and regulated, these uses
can be compatible within the zoning district. To provide this necessary control, such uses
shall be designated as conditional uses and allowable only upon review and approval of a
conditional use permit by City Council. Because of the uniqueness or special nature of a
conditional use with respect to location, design, size and method of operation, each use
that comes under review shall be considered individually.
Conditional uses are identified within each of the zoning districts established by this
ordinance. These uses may have operational characteristics such as traffic, noise, hours of
operation or other factors that warrant the imposition of other requirements, in addition to
the base requirements applicable to all uses allowed in the respective zoning district, in
order to mitigate potential impacts and safeguard surrounding properties.
Chapter 1118 specifies those added requirements for several uses identified as conditional
uses. In addition to these specific requirements, other conditions may be attached to an
approval to ensure that the proposed use satisfies the general review standards in chapter
1126.02 and the review criteria of 1126.03.
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1126.09.B. Submittal Requirements
Minimum submittal requirements for a Development Plan Review Amendment shall be as
set forth in Section 1126.03 and Table 1126.03-1.
1126.09.C. Proceedings
1. Planning and Design Commission.
The Planning and Design Commission shall hold a public meeting to review the application
and solicit input from the general public and surrounding landowners. Notification shall be
provided as required by Chapter 149 of the Codified Ordinances. The Commission shall
review the application against the requirements of this ordinance and the review standards
for site plans. At the public meeting, the Planning and Design Commission shall make a
recommendation to City Council on the application. The Planning and Design Commission
shall act on the request within 30 days of receiving the complete application.
2. City Council Action.
City Council shall review the application against the Planning and Design Commission's
recommendation, the requirements of this ordinance, and the review standards for site
plans. City Council shall take one of the following actions on the application: table, deny,
approve or approve with conditions.
3. Decision and Notice.
Within ten (10) days of the conclusion of the hearing, the Clerk of Council shall mail notice
of the decision to the owner of the use or structure for which the permit was issued and to
any other person who has filed a written request for such notice.
4. Effective Date. A decision to revoke a conditional use permit shall become final ten (10)
days after the date of the decision.
5. Appeals.
The decision of City Council shall be final and may only be reviewed by a Court of Common
Pleas, pursuant to the provisions of Chapter 2506 of the Ohio Revised Code.
5. Reapplication.
A conditional use permit application, which has been denied wholly or in part by City
Council shall not be resubmitted within 12 months from the date of denial; except on the
grounds of newly discovered evidence or proof of changed conditions. A reapplication shall
be processed in the same manner as the original application.
6. Revocation of Permit.
Upon determination by the Planning and Development Director that there are reasonable
grounds for revocation of a conditional use permit, a hearing shall be set before City
Council.
a. Notice and Hearing. Notice shall be given by the Clerk of Council in the same
manner required for a public meeting to consider approval as specified in Chapter
149 of the Codified Ordinances. At the public hearing, City Council shall hear
testimony of City staff and the owner of the use or structure for which the permit
was granted, or the owner's representative. At a public hearing, the testimony of any
other interested person shall also be heard.
b. Required Findings. City Council shall revoke the permit upon making one (1) or
more of the following findings:
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i. The permit was issued on the basis of erroneous or misleading information
or misrepresentation;
ii. The terms or conditions of approval of the permit have been violated or
that other laws or provisions have been violated; or
iii. There has been a discontinuance of the activity granted by the conditional
use permit for 12 consecutive months.
c. Decision and Notice. Within ten (10) days of the conclusion of the hearing, the
Clerk of Council shall mail notice of the decision to the owner of the use or structure
for which the permit was issued and to any other person who has filed a written
request for such notice.
d. Effective Date. A decision to revoke a conditional use permit shall become final
ten (10) days after the date of the decision.
1126.10 VARIANCE.
1126.10.A. Applicability.
Where there are practical difficulties or unnecessary hardships in the way of carrying out
the strict letter of the provisions of this Zoning Code, on appeal from the decision of the
Building Official, the Building and Zoning Board of Appeals shall have the power in a
specific case to vary or modify the application of any such provision in harmony with the
general purpose and intent of the Zoning Code so that the public health, safety, morals,
general welfare and convenience may be secured and substantial justice done.
1126.10.B. Submittal Requirements
Minimum submittal requirements for a Variance shall be as set forth in Section 1126.03
and Table 1126.03-1.
1126.10.C. Proceedings
1. Where there are practical difficulties or unnecessary hardships in the way of carrying out
the strict letter of the provisions of this Zoning Code, on appeal from the decision of the
Building Official, the Building and Zoning Board of Appeals shall have the power in a
specific case to vary or modify the application of any such provision in harmony with the
general purpose and intent of the Zoning Code so that the public health, safety, morals,
general welfare and convenience may be secured and substantial justice done. Such
variance shall be limited to specific cases where the following conditions, also, exist:
a. The practical difficulty or unnecessary hardship, which is inherent in and is
peculiar to the premises sought to be used because of physical size, shape or other
characteristics of such premises, or adjoining premises, which differentiate such
premises sought to be used from other premises in the same district, and as to such
premises sought to be used, shall create a difficulty or hardship caused by a strict
application of the provisions of the Zoning Code not generally shared by other lands
or structures in the same district;
b. The refusal of the variance or modification appealed from shall deprive the owner
of premises sought to be used of substantial property rights; and
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c. The granting of the variance or modification appealed from shall not be contrary
to the purposes and intents of the provisions of the Zoning Code.
2. In order to be entitled to relief under this section the appellant shall substantiate his
claim that each of the three conditions hereinbefore listed exist, and the Board shall make
a finding on each of such three conditions as they apply in each specific case as a
prerequisite of the granting of the variance or modification.
3. When a variance is granted by the Building and Zoning Board of Appeals in conjunction
with a Development Plan submittal required by Chapter 1126, the variance shall be final
and conditional and shall expire, be void and of no effect after the expiration of one (1) year
from the date of final City Council approval of the Development Plan unless (1) building
permits have been applied for and issued by the Building Department; or (2) the Director of
Planning and Development, upon timely application, administratively extends the approval
rendered by the Building and Zoning Board of Appeals for a period of up to one (1) year. The
failure of the Director to grant such request is final and not subject to review.
1126.11 ZONING TEXT OR MAP AMENDMENT.
1126.11.A. Applicability
A proposed amendment to the Zoning Code or the Zone Map may be initiated either by the
Planning and Design Commission or by introduction as an ordinance in Council.
1126.11.B. Submittal Requirements
Minimum submittal requirements for a Zoning Text or Map Amendment shall be as set forth
in Section 1126.03 and Table 1126.03-1.
1126.11.C. Proceedings
1. Commission Initiated.
If the amendment is initiated by action of the Commission, and upon its introduction as an
ordinance in Council, Council shall set the same for public hearing and provide for the
proper notice thereof, all as provided by the Charter and in this chapter. If the amendment
is initiated by its introduction as an ordinance in Council, the ordinance shall forthwith be
referred to the Commission.
2. Council Initiated.
Any ordinance amending this Zoning Code or the Zone Map referred by Council to the
Planning and Design Commission shall receive the consideration and be the subject of
approval or disapproval by the Commission, which shall report its action and
recommendation to Council in regard to such proposed ordinance within thirty days from
the date of the referral unless Council extends such period at the time of the referral or
before the expiration of such thirty day period or as established by Council. In the event the
Commission does not act on such proposed ordinance within the time in this section
specified, it shall be deemed to have approved such ordinance.
3. Public Hearing.
a. Date. Upon receipt of a notice of an action from the Planning and Design
Commission regarding a proposed ordinance amending this Zoning Code or the
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Zone Map, or upon the introduction of such an ordinance when initiated by the
Commission, Council shall establish a date for a public hearing of such ordinance.
The date of such public hearing shall be not less than thirty days after the date of
hearing is established.
b. Notice. The Clerk of Council shall give notice of such public hearing as required
by the Charter and such additional notice as may be directed by Council at the time
the date of the public hearing is established. Any notice given shall set forth the time
and place of public hearing and a summary of the proposed amendment.
c. File Copy For Inspection. A copy of the proposed ordinance or amended Zone
Map and all reports in connection therewith shall be on file for public inspection in
the office of the Clerk of Council.
d. Procedure; Recess. At a public hearing established by subsection (a) hereof, any
interested person shall be heard who desires to present reasons for or against the
adoption of a proposed amendment, subject, however, to reasonable regulations of
Council or rulings from the presiding officer. Council may, by motion, recess the
public hearing from time to time, but no further notice by mail or advertisement
shall be given for the time and place of any subsequent recessed public hearing of
that proposed amendment. Council need not take final action on such proposed
amendment at the time of such public hearing.
4. Council Action.
At any time after the conclusion of the public hearing required by this chapter, Council may
adopt the proposed ordinance by the affirmative vote of at least a majority of the members
of Council eligible to vote, provided the proposed ordinance was initiated by the Planning
and Design Commission or had received the prior approval of the Commission. If the
proposed ordinance or any part thereof has been disapproved by the Commission, it shall
be adopted only if it receives the affirmative vote of two-thirds of all members of Council
eligible to vote.
1126.12 BUILDING PERMITS.
1126.12.A. Applicability.
No excavation for a foundation, nor the erection, construction or alteration of any structure
or part of a structure, nor occupancy of any street with the building materials, nor erection
of temporary structures for construction purposes, nor any other improvement to real
property for which a building permit is required, shall be undertaken until a building permit
therefor has been issued by the Building Commissioner.
1126.12.B. Submittal Requirements
Minimum submittal requirements for a Building Permit shall be as set forth in Section
1126.03 and Table 1126.03-1.
1126.12.C. Proceedings
The Building Commissioner shall approve or disapprove a complete application for a
Building Permit within thirty (30) days of its filing. Failure to approve or disapprove the
DRAFT FOR PDC DISCUSSION 7/22/2026
application within this period, or the disapproval of the application, shall constitute an
adjudication order denying the issuance of a license under Section 3791.04 of the Ohio
Revised Code, and the applicant shall be entitled to an adjudication hearing in accordance
with Sections 119.07 through 119.13 of the Ohio Revised Code, as modified by Sections
3781.031 and 3781.19 of the Ohio Revised Code. Any order denying the issuance of a
Building Permit shall specify the reasons for such denial.
1126.13 CERTIFICATE OF OCCUPANCY
1126.13.A. Applicability
Upon completion of construction, all alterations, additions and new construction including
development projects requiring approval under Chapter 1126 must be reviewed and issued
a Certificate of Occupancy as required by the Ohio Building Code.
1126.13.B. Submittal Requirements
The application for building permit filed with the Building Commissioner shall constitute
the application for a Certificate of Occupancy.
1126.13.C. Proceedings
A Certificate of Occupancy or Conditional Certificate of Occupancy shall be issued within
ten (10) days after the erection or alteration of such buildings has been completed in
conformity with the building permit.
1126.14 EXPIRATION AND EXTENSIONS.
1126.14.A. Expiration.
Building permits must be obtained within one (1) year of the date of final plan approval or
the approval expires, along with the approval of any related variances. Upon expiration, no
person shall acquire any vested property interest in or upon the land whatsoever, nor
otherwise acquire any vested right to proceed with construction based upon such expired
final development plan approval. Upon expiration, any variances from this Code that may
have been issued in support thereof shall likewise expire, shall not vest any property right,
and shall not run with the land.
1126.14.B. Extensions.
Upon request from the developer or approval holder, the Director of Economic and
Community Development may grant one (1) extension of up to twelve (12) additional
months provided that:
1. The applicant provides the Planning and Development Department with a written
request for an extension prior to the date of expiration of the original development plan
approval;
2. There are no changes in the project; and
3. The zoning of the property is the same as when the project was approved.
DRAFT FOR PDC DISCUSSION 7/22/2026
1126.15 COMPLIANCE WITH APPROVED PLANS.
1126.15.A. Compliance Required and Stop Work Orders
No site development, improvement or construction activities shall be commenced or
permitted that fail to comply with approved development plans, including all conditions
imposed or variances issued, except upon amendment authorized and issued pursuant to
Section 1126.08. Any such deviation from final approved development plans shall be
subject to an immediate Stop Work Order and penalties provided by Chapter 1121.
1126.15.B. Final Approved Development Plan
Final approved development plan shall include:
1. the finally approved building, site;
2. signage plans for the property;
3. the landscaping and lighting plans for the property, and
4. all statements concerning the use and/or development of the property appearing
affirmatively on the face of the record of the proceedings of the owner's application for a
development plan which were expressly made a condition of Administrative approval or
City Council's approval pursuant to the provisions of Section 1126.05.
---
[CHAPTER 1166 - Illumination.pdf]
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
CHAPTER 1166
ILLUMINATION
1166.01
Purpose
1166.02
Applicability
1166.03
Exterior Lighting Standards
1166.04
Non-Essential Lighting
1166.05
Exemptions
1166.06
Prohibited Lighting
1166.01 PURPOSE.
These Regulations provide standards for the responsible use of exterior lighting within the
community with regard to the effectiveness and energy efficiency of outdoor lighting and its
impact on residents, wildlife and to the environment.
1166.02 APPLICABILITY.
The standards herein shall apply to all new and renovated exterior lighting where a Minor
Development Plan Review, Major Development Plan Review, Development Plan
Amendment, or Conditional Use application is required.
1166.03 EXTERIOR LIGHTING STANDARDS.
These requirements apply to all exterior light fixtures mounted on: buildings, signs,
structures, poles, bollards, and ground surfaces.
1166.03.A. Performance Standard.
Exterior lighting fixtures shall be installed in a manner to prevent light pollution in the forms
of light trespass and glare and to preserve, protect and enhance the character of the City.
1166.03.B. Shielding.
No light source or lamp used for a sign should be visible to pedestrians, from motor
vehicles, or from any surrounding property. Exterior lighting shall be full cut-off and shall be
arranged to deflect the light away from adjoining properties and adjacent streets. Exterior
building lighting fixtures used to illuminate sidewalks, entrances and service areas shall
also be full-cut off fixtures.
1166.03.C. Glare.
Non-residential buildings and structures shall minimize glare that could create a nuisance
for adjacent residential properties or for motorists.
1166.03.D. Light Trespass.
1. All exterior light fixtures shall be mounted, installed or aimed so that no direct light is
visible from within the property boundaries of all surrounding properties.
2. Lighting intensity shall not exceed zero (0) foot candles at the commercial or industrial
property line when abutting residentially zoned land. All on-site lighting of buildings, lawns,
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
parking areas and signs shall be designed so as not to shine onto any adjacent residential
property or building, or to cause glare onto any public street or vehicle thereon.
1166.03.E Luminaire Location and Height.
1. Required Setbacks.
Table 1166.03.C-1, Site Lighting Setbacks
Maximum Mounting Height
Minimum Distance from Residential Property Line
10 feet
15 feet
16 feet
30 feet
20 feet
40 feet
30 feet
180 feet
2. The reviewing authority may require lower mounting heights if the adjoining grade is
lower than developed grade
3. Concrete pedestals a minimum of 30 inches high shall be installed for all light poles in or
within five (5) feet of the parking lot.
1166.03.F. Canopy Lighting.
Light fixtures mounted under canopies shall be recessed with flat lenses so that the lens
cover is flush with the bottom surface of the canopy. Alternately, indirect lighting may be
used where light is reflected down from the bottom of the canopy. In this case, light fixtures
must be shielded so that direct illumination is focused exclusively on the underside of the
canopy.
1166.03.G. Illumination Levels.
1. Lighting shall be designed to provide even distribution of illumination and to avoid
creating hot spots. Maximum average illumination levels are provided in Table 1161.03.F-1:
Table 1166.03.F-1, Illumination Levels
Lighting Calculation Area Type
Maximum Average
Illumination
Maximum Illumination
at Any Point
1) Open parking lots
2.0 fc
5.0 fc
2) Sidewalks, entrances, pedestrian areas
5.0 fc
12.5 fc
3) Car dealership front row
5.0 fc
12.5 fc
4) Under service station canopy
15.0 fc
20.0 fc
2. Measurement. The average and maximum illumination levels shall not exceed that
permitted for each lighting calculation area type. A lighting calculation area shall be
defined as any area where the illumination level equals or exceeds 0.2 footcandle. A light
lost factor (LLF) as recommended by the manufacturer subject to approval by the city may
be applied to all calculations. A permanent dimming system or other permanent controls
may be used to reduce the illumination level of any fixture in order to meet the required
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
illumination levels; however, in no case shall the dimming system or other control be
permitted to reduce the illumination level of any fixture more than 15% in order to meet the
required illumination levels during normal business hours.
1166.04. Non-essential Lighting.
1. Operation.
All non-essential exterior lighting shall be required to be turned off after business hours,
leaving only lighting deemed essential for building security. (“Non-essential” can apply to:
display, aesthetic, parking and sign lighting)
2. Aesthetic Lighting.
Nonessential lighting for other areas may be installed upon approval of the reviewing
authority. This shall include landscape lighting, accent lighting of the structure, sign
lighting, decorative lighting and lighting for similar purposes. Light fixtures used to
illuminate flags, statues or any other objects mounted on a pole, pedestal or platform shall
use a narrow cone beam or light that will not extend beyond the illuminated object. For
upward-direct architectural, landscape and decorative lighting, direct light emission shall
not be visible above the building line roof
1166.05. Exemptions.
1. Outdoor Recreation.
Because of their unique requirements for providing greater night-time visibility, their need
to ensure public safety, and their limited hours of operation; stadiums (which include ball
diamonds, playing fields and tennis courts) are exempted from the exterior lighting
standards as specified above. Reasonable operating restrictions may be conditions of
approval.
2. Stadiums.
A lighting plan for stadiums shall be established at the time that the request for exterior
lighting is made and shall be subject to reviewing authority approval.
1166.06. Prohibited Lighting.
1. Floodlights and searchlights (or similar structures) are strictly prohibited from being
erected or used.
2. No flickering or flashing light shall be permitted, except for temporary holiday
decorations. The installation of any light fixture not specifically approved as part of a
development plan is strictly forbidden.
---
[CHAPTER 1135 - Residence Districts WORKIONG DARFT v1.pdf]
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
CHAPTER 1135
Residence Districts
1135.02 RESIDENCE DISTRICT PURPOSES.
1135.02.A. A - One Family Residence (A-1R)
The A-One Family Residence (A-1R) District is designated as North Olmsted’s most
restrictive residential zone, primarily intended to foster and protect lower-density
neighborhoods consisting of single-family detached dwellings. Building heights are limited
to two and one-half stories to preserve a consistent suburban scale.
1135.02.B. B - One Family Residence (B-1R)
The B-One Family Residence (B-1R) District is designated as North Olmsted’s second most
restrictive residential zone, primarily intended to establish and protect neighborhoods
comprised of single-family detached dwellings. Building heights are limited to two and one-
half stories to preserve a consistent suburban scale.
1135.02.C. C - One Family Residence (C-1R)
The C-One Family Residence (C-1R) District is designated as North Olmsted’s third most
restrictive residential zone, primarily intended to establish and protect neighborhoods
composed of single-family detached dwellings. Building heights are limited to two and one-
half stories to preserve a consistent suburban scale.
1135.02.D. Two Family Residence (2R)
The Two Family Residence (2R) District is established to provide for neighborhoods that
accommodate a mixture of one-family and two-family dwellings. A two-family dwelling in
this district is defined as a single building containing two units arranged either side-by-side
or one above the other.
1135.02.E. Residential Cluster (RC)
The Residential Cluster (RC) District is established to provide a more flexible and creative
approach to residential development than is possible under standard one- and two-family
zoning, specifically to encourage the conservation of natural site features like woodlands,
steep slopes, and wetlands. By allowing dwelling units to be grouped or "clustered" on
smaller individual lots, the district facilitates the preservation of significant common open
space.
1135.02.F. Multiple Residence (Apartment) (MR)
The Multiple Residence (Apartment) (MR) District is intended to create a balanced
residential community by providing a variety of dwelling types that meet the housing needs
of North Olmsted’s present and future population in specifically designated areas. The
district seeks to ensure adequate privacy, attractive arrangements, and the preservation of
open spaces.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
1135.02.G. Senior Residence (SR)
The Senior Residence (SR) District is established to recognize the specialized housing
needs of residents aged 55 and older, focusing on the provision of suitable, safe, and
decent housing that promotes neighborly relations and reduces feelings of alienation. The
district accommodates a variety of housing options, including independent and assisted
living centers, residential nursing homes, and single-family cluster units.
1135.03 USES.
Table 1135.03-1 Uses
1135.03.A - Residential Uses
Standard
A-1R B-1R C-1R
2R
RC
MR
SR
1) Single-family dwelling, detached
P
P
P
P
P
P
2) Townhome or Single-family dwelling.
Attached, Not more than 3 in a group
P
P
3) Townhome or Single-family dwelling.
Attached, More than 3 in a group
P
4) Two-family dwelling
P
P
5) Multi-family buildings
P
6) Bed and breakfast inns
1162.08.A C
C
C
C
7) Age Restricted Housing
C
C
C
P
8) Assisted living facility, congregate housing,
continuing care retirement community, or a
nursing facility
C
C
C
P
P
9) Group Homes
10) Planned Development
1162.11.A C
C
C
C
C
C
C
1135.03.B - Service-Related Uses
Standard
A-1F
B-1F
C-1F
2F
RC
MR
SR
1) Daycares, nursey schools and childcare
establishments
C
C
C
1135.03.C - Recreation and
Amusement-Related Uses
Standard
A-1F
B-1F
C-1F
2F
RC
MR
SR
1) Parks, playground, pools or recreation areas
C
C
C
P
2) Golf courses
C
C
C
C
1135.03.D - Institutional Uses
Standard
A-1F
B-1F
C-1F
2F
RC
MR
SR
1) Government offices, buildings and facilities
C
C
C
2) Churches and places of worship
1162.10.B C
C
C
3) Fraternal organization and private clubs
C
C
C
4) Cemetery, monuments and memorials
C
C
C
5) Schools, K-12
1162.10.A C
C
C
6) Community centers and senior centers
C
C
C
1135.03.E – Utility-Related Uses
Standard
A-1F
B-1F
C-1F
2F
RC
MR
SR
Wireless Telecommunications
1162.13.B C
C
C
C
C
C
C
1135.03.F - Adaptive Uses
Standard
A-1F
B-1F
C-1F
2F
RC
MR
SR
Adaptive Residential Reuse
1162.16.B C
C
C
C
C
C
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
1135.04 SPATIAL REQUIREMENTS.
Table 1135.04-1 Spatial Requirements
1135.04.A - Spatial Requirements
A-1F
B-1F
C-1F
2F
RC
MR
SR
1) Minimum Lot Area
10,000
8,000
7,500
7,500
4,000
2) Residential Units Per Acre
5
20
20
3) Minimum Lot Width
80
70
60
60
60
50
4) Front Yard Setback
50
50
50
50
40
20
20
5) Side Yard Setback
15
10
10
10
20
20
20
6) Rear Yard Setback
50
50
50
50
20
20
20
7) Lot Coverage
25%
25%
25%
35%
25%
50%
30%
8) Maximum Height
35
35
35
35
35
35
45
9) Open Space Requirement
30%
1135.05 ACCESSORY USES AND STRUCTURES.
Table 1135.05-1 Accessory Uses and Structures
1135.05.A - Accessory Uses and
Structures
Standard A-1F
B-1F
C-1F 2F
RC
MR
SR
1) Home Occupations
1161.10 P
P
P
P
2) Private Garage and Driveway
1161.05 P
P
P
P
3) Accessory Structures
1161.12 P
P
P
P
4) Animal Shelters
P
P
P
P
5) Detached Accessory Dwelling Unit
C
C
C
C
C
C
C
6) Alternative Energy Systems
1161.11 P
P
P
P
P
P
P
7) Wireless Telecommunications
Colocation on existing structures
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
---
[CHAPTER 1163 Off Street Parking.pdf]
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
CHAPTER 1163
Off-street Parking, Loading and Transportation
1163.01 Purpose.
1163.02 General requirements.
1163.03 Shared/Common Parking.
1163.04 Modifications of Parking Requirements.
1163.05 Lankbanked Parking.
1163.06 Required off-street parking spaces.
1163.07 Parking design.
1163.08 Off-street loading.
1163.09 Bicycle parking.
1163.01 PURPOSE.
The purpose of this chapter is to prescribe regulations for off-street parking of motor
vehicles in residential and non-residential zoning districts; to ensure by the provision of
these regulations that adequate parking and access are provided in a safe and convenient
manner; and to afford reasonable protection to adjacent land uses from light, noise,
air/water pollution and other effects of parking lot proximity.
1163.02 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS.
1163.02.A. General Parking Requirements.
For all buildings and uses established after the effective date of this ordinance, off-street
parking shall be provided as required by this chapter. In addition, the following shall also
apply:
1. Whenever the use of a building or lot is changed to another classification of use, off-
street parking facilities shall be provided for that use as required by this chapter.
2. If the intensity of use of any building or lot is increased through the addition of floor area,
increase in seating capacity or by other means, additional off-street parking shall be
provided as required by this chapter.
3. Off-street parking facilities in existence on the effective date of this ordinance shall not
be reduced below the requirements of this chapter, nor shall nonconforming parking
facilities that exist as of the effective date of this ordinance be further reduced or made
more nonconforming.
4. An area designated as required off-street parking including areas reserved for
landbanked parking shall not be changed to another use unless equal facilities are
provided elsewhere in accordance with the provisions of this chapter.
1163.02.B Location.
1. Off-street parking facilities required for one and two-family dwellings shall be located on
the same lot as the building(s) they are intended to serve and shall consist of a driveway
and garage.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
2. Off-street parking facilities required for all other uses shall be located on the lot where
the parking is required. In the event that required parking is proposed on a lot in common
ownership or leasehold with the lot where the parking is required, the applicant must
present and record a permanent easement and parking agreement for access and parking.
3. All driveways, drives, roadways and sidewalks used or intended for use as access to
buildings or uses in a non-residential district, or for any other use or purpose, including
access for emergency vehicles and apparatus, shall be located in their entirety within the
area zoned for that non-residential district.
1163.02.C. Maximum Allowed Parking.
1. Purpose.
In order to minimize excessive areas of pavement that detract from aesthetics, contribute
to high rates of storm water runoff and generate reflective heat
2. Maximum Parking Requirements.
The maximum number of parking spaces for the use or mix of uses for surface lot shall not
be exceeded.
3. Exceeding Maximum Allowed Parking.
The reviewing authority may approve additional surface parking spaces in excess of the
maximum allowed, based on documented evidence, to accommodate the use on a typical
day.
4. Exemption.
The maximum provision shall not apply to park-and-ride facilities, public parking garages,
structured parking that is a part of or associated with a mixed use building or development,
or other parking provided as part of a transit facility.
1163.02.D. No Minimum Parking.
There shall be no minimum number of required parking spaces for uses in the following
Zoning Districts:
1. Mall Area Mixed-Use Overlay (MAMU),
2. B3 General Business Zone (B3),
3. B4 Mixed Use Business (B4),
4. Mixed Use A (MUA), and
5. Mixed Use D (MUD).
1163.02.E. Structured Parking Incentive.
Developments that include structured parking, comprising of parking levels with 10 or
more parking spaces, shall be permitted an additional two stories or twenty-five feet (25')
of building height above the maximum.
1163.03 SHARED/COMMON PARKING.
1. Two (2) or more buildings or uses may share a common parking facility, provided the
number of parking spaces available equals the required number of spaces for all the uses
computed separately. Cumulative parking requirements for mixed-use developments or
shared facilities may be reduced by the reviewing authority where it can be determined that
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
one (1) or more of the factors listed in Section 1163.02.D applies. In any case, the
continued availability of required parking, either shared or by other means provided in this
chapter, shall be made a condition of any development plan approval and/or conditional
use permit approval, as provided by this ordinance.
2. Parking facilities for a place of worship or similar sporadically used facility may be used
to meet up to 50% of the off-street parking for theaters, stadiums and other places of
public assembly, stores and office buildings within 300 feet of the facility, as measured
from the nearest edge of the parking area to the nearest public entry point of the building or
use provided that the facility makes the spaces available and there is no conflict between
peak times when the uses are in need of the parking facilities.
3. A request for shared parking that will result in fewer than the total number of spaces
required for all uses separately may be approved by the reviewing authority as part of the
development plan review if supported by a shared parking analysis. A shared parking
analysis must address, at a minimum, the size and type of the proposed development or
combination of uses, the composition of tenants, the anticipated rate of parking turnover
and the anticipated peak parking and traffic loads for all uses that will be sharing off-street
parking spaces.
4. A shared parking plan shall be enforced through written agreement among all owners of
record and included in the development plan filed with the City. The owner of the shared
parking area shall enter into a written agreement including access and parking easements,
with authorization for enforcement by the City. The agreement shall state:
a. The land comprising the parking area shall remain subject to the easement and
parking agreement in perpetuity, in conjunction with the sale of the building which
the parking area serves; and
b. The owner agrees to bear the expense of recording the agreement which shall
bind his or her heirs, successors, and assigns.
5. An attested copy of the shared parking easement and agreement between the owners of
record shall be submitted to the Planning and Development Director and recorded in a
form established by the Law Director. The easement and agreement must be recorded
before issuance of a building permit or certificate of occupancy for any use to be served by
the shared parking area. A shared parking easement and agreement may only be revoked if
all required off-street parking spaces will be provided on-site following the review and
approval of the City. Upon written request signed by all property owners of record, the City
may approve the parties' recission of the written agreement and the City may consent to
satisfaction and release of the easement but only if other off-street facilities are provided in
accord with this Zoning Code.
1163.04 MODIFICATION OF PARKING REQUIREMENTS.
The reviewing authority may reduce the parking space requirements of this chapter for any
use, based upon a finding that one (1) or more of the following conditions shall be met:
1. Other forms of travel (such as transit, bicycle or pedestrian) are available and likely to be
used and, in particular, the site design will incorporate both bicycle parking facilities and
pedestrian connections.
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
2. Shared parking is available to multiple uses where there will be a high proportion of
multipurpose visits or where uses have peak parking demands during differing times of the
day or days of the week and meeting the following requirements:
a. Pedestrian connections shall be maintained between the uses; and
b. Unless the multiple uses are located on parcels under the same ownership,
shared parking agreements shall be filed as required in 1163.02.C(5) above.
3. Expectation of walk-in trade is reasonable due to sidewalk connections to adjacent
residential neighborhoods or employment centers. The site design incorporates pedestrian
connections to and through the site, providing safe and convenient access to the building
entrance.
4. The applicant has provided a parking study, conducted by a qualified transportation
engineer, demonstrating that another standard would be more appropriate based on actual
number of employees, expected level of customer traffic or actual counts at a similar
establishment.
5. Achieves compliance with landscaping requirements of 1165, in particular to
accommodate interior parking landscaping and park lot trees.
6. Electric vehicle charging stations can be counted as two parking spaces.
1163.05 LANDBANKED PARKING.
1. Where an applicant demonstrates that the parking requirements for a proposed use
would be excessive, the reviewing authority may defer the construction of a portion of the
required parking to a time in the future when it becomes apparent to the City that the
parking spaces need to be constructed. The development plan shall designate areas of the
site for future construction of the required parking spaces, meeting the design and
dimensional requirements of this chapter. Any area so designated shall be maintained in a
landscaped appearance and not occupy required street lawns or buffer zones or be used
for any other purpose.
2. The landbanked parking shall meet the requirements of this chapter if constructed.
Construction of the additional parking spaces within the landbanked parking area may be
initiated by the owner or required by the City, based on parking needs or observation, and
shall require approval of an amended development plan which may be approved by the
Planning and Development Director.
1163.06 REQUIRED OFF-STREET PARKING SPACES.
The minimum number of required off-street parking spaces shall be provided and
maintained on the premises or as otherwise allowed by this chapter, in accordance with
Table 1163.03-1.
1163.06.A. Fractional Parking Spaces
When units or measurements determining the number of required parking spaces result in
a fraction over one-half (1/2), a full parking space shall be required.
1163.06.B. Most Similar Use
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
In the case of a use not specifically mentioned, the requirement for off-street parking
facilities for a specified use which is most similar, as determined by the Planning and
Development Director, shall apply.
1163.06.C. Seating Calculation
Each 24 inches of bench, pew or similar seating facilities shall be counted as one (1) seat,
except if specifications and plans filed with a building permit application specify a
maximum seating capacity, that number may be used as the basis for required parking
spaces.
1163.06.D. Occupancy Capacity.
Where parking requirements are based upon maximum seating or occupancy capacity, the
capacity shall be as determined by the building code and fire code.
1163.06.E. Usable Floor Area.
Unless otherwise indicated, floor area shall be usable floor area (UFA) as defined in
Chapter 1115.
Table 1163.06-1, Parking Requirements by Use
Use
Min. Number of Parking
Spaces
Max. Number of Parking
Spaces (surface lot)
Retail Uses
1 per 500 sq. ft. of UFA
1 per 300 sq. ft. of UFA
Automotive Related Uses
1 per garage bay
1 per gas pump or EV
charger
1 per 2 employees on the
largest shift
2 per garage bay
2 per gas pump or EV
charger
1 per employee on the
largest shift
Service Related Uses
1 per 500 sq. ft. of UFA
1 per 300 sq. ft. of UFA
Office Related Uses
1 per 500 sq. ft. of UFA
1 per 300 sq. ft. of UFA
Food/ Hospitality Related Uses 1 per 100 sq. ft. of seating
area
1 per 75 sq. ft. of seating
area
Lodging Related Uses
0.5 per guest room
1 per guest room
Recreation and Amusement-
Related Uses
1 per 6 seats or 1 per 400 sq.
ft. of public floor area
1 per 3 seats or 1 per
200 sq. ft. of public floor
area
Institutional Uses
1 per 5 employees + drop-off
stacking zone
1 per 3 employees +
drop-off stacking zone
Industrial Uses
1 per 1,500 sq. ft. of GFA (or
1 per employee on largest
shift, whichever is less)
1 per 750 sq. ft. of GFA
Utility-Related Uses
1 per employee on largest
shift
2 per employee on
largest shift
Transportation Related Uses
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Residential Dwelling Unit
1 space per unit
2.5 spaces per unit
Detached Single Family
Dwelling
2 per dwelling unit, 1 must
be enclosed
1163.07 PARKING DESIGN.
1163.07.A. Location and Setbacks.
1. Yard Restrictions.
Off-street parking lots shall meet the front, side or rear yard restrictions and setback from
the front property line requirements applicable as specified for the zoning district. Where
rows of parking spaces are allowed in the front or side yard, rows may be any reasonable
configuration as determined by the reviewing authority.
Table 1163.07.A-1 Parking Location
Zoning District
Front Yard
Side Yard
Rear Yard
B1 Local Business Zone (B1)
2 rows allowed
Allowed
Allowed
B2 Office Service Zone (B2)
1 row allowed
Allowed
Allowed
B3 General Business Zone (B3)
Prohibited
1 row allowed
Allowed
B4 Mixed Use Business (B4)
Prohibited
1 row allowed
Allowed
Mixed Use A (MUA)
25 ft setback
Allowed
Allowed
Mixed Use C (MUC)
25 ft setback
Prohibited
Prohibited
Mixed Use D (MUD)
25 ft setback
Allowed
Allowed
Residential Office (RO)
Prohibited
Allowed
Allowed
Limited Industry (LI)
2 rows allowed
Allowed
Allowed
Mall Area Mixed-Use Overlay
(MAMU)
Prohibited
1 row allowed
Allowed
Multiple Residence (Apartment)
20 ft setback
10 ft setback
10 ft setback
Senior Residence
50 ft setback
25 ft setback
50 ft setback
2. Street Lawn and Buffer Restrictions.
Parking areas may not be located within any required street lawn as described in Section
1165.06 or buffer zone as described in Section 1165.07.
3. Street Lawn Modification.
Parking Areas may be located within the Street Lawn is a decorative screening wall of brick
or natural-looking stone not to exceed 30 inches or durable decorative fencing with brick
column posts not to exceed 48 inches. Shall be integrated with landscaping.
1163.07.B. Parking Construction.
The construction of any parking lot shall require approval of a development plan, in
accordance with Chapter 1126.
1. Pavement.
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All parking lots and vehicle and equipment storage areas shall be paved with asphalt or
concrete, and shall be graded and drained to remove surface water which might
accumulate. The reviewing authority may approve alternative paving materials, such as
permeable/grass pavers, for all or a portion of the parking areas, based upon credible
evidence of the durability and appearance of the proposed materials.
2. Drainage.
Surface water from parking areas shall be managed in accordance with City engineering
standards. The City Engineer shall approve any proposed detention or retention treatment.
3. Electric Vehicle Charging Stations.
a. Electric Vehicle Charging Stations may be placed at existing or proposed parking
spaces. b. Electric Vehicle Charging Stations are permitted accessory use in all
zoning districts and can count to the allowable parking modification found at
1161.04(6).
c. New parking lots or reconstructed parking lots shall include the required number
of Electric Vehicle Charging Stations shown in Table 1161.07.B-1.
Table1163.07.B-1 Minimum Required EV Chargers
Parking Spaces
EV Chargers
1) Less than 10 spaces
0
2) 10-25 spaces
1
3) Over 25 spaces
4% or 10, whichever is lower
4. Dimensions.
Parking space and aisle dimensions shall meet the following requirements and as specified
in Table 1163.07-2.
a. Angled parking between these ranges shall be to the nearest degree.
b. Space length may be reduced by up to two (2) feet if an unobstructed overhang,
such as a landscaped area or sidewalk, is provided. A sidewalk shall have a
minimum width of seven (7) feet where abutting a parking area. There shall be a
minimum distance of seven (7) feet between the parking lot curb and building.
Where curbing does not exist, bumper blocks shall be provided to protect
pedestrian space adjacent to the building.
c. All parking lots shall be striped and maintained showing individual parking bays,
in accordance with the following dimensions.
Table 1163.07-2, Minimum Dimensional Requirements
Angle
45°
50°
55°
50°
60°
70°
90°
Interlock (ft.)
42
45
46
50
51
54
60
Aisle Width (ft.)
12
13
14
16
17
18
24
Interlock Stall Depth (ft.)
15
16
16
17
17
18
18
Curb Length Per Stall (ft.)
12.7
11.7
11.0
10.4
9.9
9.6
9.0
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5. Stacking Spaces.
Stacking spaces for drive-through uses (such as banks, restaurants, car washes,
pharmacies, dry cleaners and oil change establishments) shall be at least 24 feet long and
ten (10) feet wide. Stacking spaces shall not block required off-street parking spaces.
Where the drive-through waiting lane provides for a single lane for five (5) or more vehicles
an escape/by-pass lane shall be provided to allow vehicles to exit the waiting lane.
6. Ingress and Egress.
Adequate vehicular ingress and egress to the parking area shall be provided by means of
clearly limited and defined drives. All parking lots shall provide interior access and
circulation aisles for all parking spaces. The use of public streets for maneuvering into or
out of off-street parking spaces shall be prohibited. Ingress and egress to a parking lot in a
non-residential zoning district shall not be through a residential district, except in
instances where access is provided by means of an alley that forms the boundary between
a residential and non-residential district.
7. Curbing.
A six (6) inch cast-in-place, continuous concrete curb or alternative, as determined by the
City Engineer, shall be provided around all sides of any parking lot to protect landscaped
areas, sidewalks, buildings or adjacent property from vehicles that might otherwise extend
beyond the edge of the parking lot. Curb openings are allowed for storm water drainage, as
recommended by the City Engineer. Plantings shall be set back two (2) feet from curbs to
allow for bumper overhang.
8. Fire Lanes.
Fire lanes shall be designated on the site and posted with signage prior to occupancy.
Vehicle circulation shall meet turning radius requirements set by the Division of Fire.
9. Crosswalks.
Pedestrian pathways and crosswalks in parking areas shall be distinguished from asphalt
driving surfaces through the use of striping or durable, low-maintenance, surface materials
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such as pavers, bricks, or scored, stamped or colored concrete to enhance pedestrian
safety and comfort as well as the attractiveness of the parking area.
10. Landscaping.
Compliance with parking lot landscaping standards located in chapter 1165.08.
11. Illumination.
Compliance with illumination standards located in chapter 1166.
1163.07.C. Barrier Free Parking in Parking Lots.
Within each parking lot, signed and marked barrier free spaces shall be provided at a
convenient location in accordance with the applicable requirements of federal, state and
local codes.
1163.07.D. Limitations on Use of Parking Lots.
1. Temporary Parking.
Off-street parking areas are intended only for temporary vehicle parking. Except when land
is used as storage space in connection with the business of a repair or service garage, use
of parking areas or open land is not permitted for the storage or parking of wrecked or
junked cars, or for creating a junk yard or nuisance.
2. Loading Spaces Restrictions.
Loading spaces and parking spaces shall be considered separate and distinct
requirements and shall be provided as individual components on the site as set forth in
Section 1163.05. In no case shall one component be construed as meeting the
requirements of the other.
3. Long-term Storage and Overnight Restrictions.
Parking lots and loading areas shall not be used for the long-term storage of trucks or
trailers, except where such outdoor storage is specifically permitted in the zoning district.
Overnight parking or storage of commercial vehicles shall be prohibited, except for uses
and locations approved for vehicle storage. This shall not be construed to prohibit the
parking overnight of commercial fleet vehicles or the short-term parking of trailers in
loading bays or staging areas related to commercial or industrial uses.
4. Vehicle Sales Display Restriction.
It shall be unlawful to use a parking lot or open area to store or park any vehicle for the
purpose of displaying vehicles for sale, except in an approved vehicle sales dealership.
5. Advertising Vehicle Restriction.
It shall be unlawful to use a parking lot or open area to store or park any vehicle for the
purpose of displaying advertisements, either mounted to or inscribed upon such vehicle,
except where the vehicle is used in conjunction with a lawful commercial use existing
thereon.
1163.08 OFF-STREET LOADING.
1163.08.A. Uses Requiring Loading Area.
On the same premises with every building, structure or part thereof, erected and occupied
for manufacturing, storage, warehouse, retails sales, consumer services or other uses
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similarly involving the receipt or distribution of vehicles, materials or merchandise, there
shall be provided and maintained on the lot adequate space for standing, loading and
unloading services in order to avoid undue interference with public use of the streets,
alleys and parking spaces. This provision shall not apply to retail sales and consumer
service uses of less than 10,000 square feet.
1163.08.B. Loading Area Requirements.
Loading and unloading spaces shall be paved and, unless otherwise adequately provided
for, shall be ten (10) feet by 50 feet, with 15 foot height clearance, according to the
following schedule:
Table 1163.08-1, Minimum Off-Street Loading Requirements
Building Net GFA
Minimum Truck Loading Spaces
1 - 25,000 sq. ft.
1 space
25,001 - 40,000 sq. ft.
2 spaces
40,001 - 100,000 sq. ft.
3 spaces
100,001 - 160,000 sq. ft.
4 spaces
Over 160,000 sq. ft.
5 spaces
1163.08.C. Orientation of Overhead Doors.
Access and loading bays facing any street, adjacent residential use or residential zoning
district, shall have the doors closed at all times, except during the movement of raw
materials, other supplies and finished products into and out of the building.
1163.08.D. Location.
The location of off-street loading facilities shall require approval by the reviewing authority
during the development plan review process.
1163.08.E. Residential Setback.
Loading and unloading spaces shall not be located closer than 50 feet to any residential
district boundary, unless the spaces are wholly within a completely enclosed building or
completely screened from the residential district by a solid, sight-obscuring wall or fence
at least six (6) feet in height and approved by the reviewing authority.
1163.08.F. Deliveries to Commercial Establishments.
The operation of loading facilities at commercial establishments shall meet the
requirements set forth in Chapter 741 of the Codified Ordinances.
1163.09 BICYCLE PARKING.
1163.09.A Purpose.
To promote pedestrian-scaled development in these areas of the city by providing public
accessibility, connecting residences and businesses to public green spaces and promoting
DRAFT FOR DISCUSSION AT PDC 8/26/2026
pedestrian and bicycle movement between adjacent residential, employment and
shopping areas.
1163.09.B. Applicability.
Major Development Plan Reviews for new construction and redevelopment projects
located in B-1, B-3 and B-4 Zoning Districts. Not applicable to additions.
1163.09.C. Bicycle Parking Standards.
Parking for bicycles shall be provided in B-1, B-3 and B-4 Zoning Districts as follows:
1. Amount.
Bicycle parking shall be provided at a minimum amount of five percent (5%) of the number
of spaces provided for car parking or as determined by the Planning and Development
Director based upon the use proposed. No development shall be required to provide more
than twenty (20) spaces.
2. Location.
Bicycle parking shall be located within 75 feet of the main entrance of the building it serves.
3. Design.
For each required bicycle parking space, a stationary object shall be provided to which a
user can secure a bicycle with at least two (2) points of contact with a six (6) foot cable and
lock. The stationary object shall be either a freestanding bicycle rack or a wall-mounted
bracket. Features of an acceptable bicycle rack:
a. Installed on a permanent foundation (e.g., concrete pad) to ensure stability or
securely anchored to the foundation with tamper-proof nuts if surface mounted.
b. Keeps both bike wheels on the ground.
c. Design that prevents the bicycle from tipping over.
d. Ability to support a variety of bicycle sizes and frame shapes.
e. Space to secure the frame and one or both wheels to the rack with a cable, chain
or u-lock.