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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2026 - 01 UDO Amendments A21 DefMeasure 2026-04-21 Draft Redlined v2Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-1 Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies 21.1 RULES OF INTERPRETATION 21.2 GENERAL ABBREVIATIONS 21.3 DEFINITION OF GENERAL TERMS 21.4 RULES OF MEASUREMENT 21.1 RULES OF INTERPRETATION The terms in the text of this Ordinance are interpreted in accordance with the following rules of construction: A. The singular number includes the plural, and the plural the singular. B. The present tense includes the past and future tenses, and the future tense includes the present. C. The terms “must,” “shall,” and “will” are mandatory. D. The terms “may” and “can” are permissive. E. The terms “must not,” “will not,” “cannot,” and “shall not” are prohibiting. F. Any gender includes all genders. G. Whenever a defined word or term appears in the text of this Ordinance, its meaning must be construed as set forth in the definition. Words not defined must be interpreted in accordance with the definitions considered to be normal dictionary usage. 21.2 GENERAL ABBREVIATIONS The following abbreviations may be used within this Ordinance: A. BTZ is an abbreviation for “build-to zone.” B. GFA is an abbreviation for “gross floor area.” C. ft is an abbreviation for “feet.” D. N/A is an abbreviation for “not applicable.” E. sf is an abbreviation for “square feet.” F. SF is an abbreviation for “single-family.” G. SF-A is an abbreviation for “single-family - attached.” H. 2F is an abbreviation for “two-family.” I. TH is an abbreviation for “townhouse.” J. MF is an abbreviation for “multi-family.” Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-2 21.3 DEFINITION OF GENERAL TERMS The following are definitions of general terms used throughout this Ordinance with the exception of use definitions, which are defined in Article 8. 100-Year Floodplain. Land subject to a 1% or greater chance of flooding in any given year as specified in the City Ordinance Chapter 120, Flood Damage Prevention. Abandonment. To stop the use of property intentionally. Abut. To share a common wall or lot line without being separated by a public or private street or alley. Access. A way or means to provide physical entrance to a property or physical element of the landscape. Accessibility Ramp. A ramp or similar structure that provides wheelchair or similar access to a structure. Accessory Structure. A detached structure located on the same lot as the principal building that is incidental to the use of the principal building. Accessory Use. The use of land or a structure, or portion thereof, customarily incidental and subordinate to the principal use of the land or structure. Addition. Construction that increases the size of a structure in terms of building footprint, height, or floor area. Affordable Housing. Dwellings that are affordable by qualified very low and low-income households. Age-Restricted Housing. A multi-family dwelling or a planned residential development of various dwelling types where 80% of the dwelling units are required to be occupied by at least one person who is age 55 or older. Alley. A service road with one-way or two-way traffic providing a secondary means of public access to abutting property and not intended for general traffic circulation. Alteration. A change, addition, or modification in construction, other than cosmetic or decorative, or any change in the structural members of buildings such as bearing walls, columns, beams, or girders. Amateur (ham) Radio Equipment. An amateur (ham) radio station licensed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC), including equipment such as, but not limited to, a tower or building-mounted structure supporting a radiating antenna platform and other equipment. Ancillary. In regard to principal uses, a structure or use that provides support and is typically integral to a principal structure or use. Aquaculture/Aquaponics. A structure designed for the farming of aquatic organisms such as fish, crustaceans, mollusks, and aquatic plants under controlled conditions Architectural Feature. A part or projection that contributes to the aesthetics of a structure, exclusive of signs, that is not necessary for the structural integrity of the structure or to make the structure habitable. Architecturally Significant Structure. The quality of a building or structure based on its date of erection, style and scarcity of same, quality of design, present condition and appearance or other characteristics that embody the distinctive characteristics of a type, period or method of construction. Arterial Street. A street that meets the definition of the New York State Department of Transportation for the arterial street functional classification. Awning. A roof like structure typically made of cloth, metal, or other material attached to a frame that extends from and is supported by a building. Awnings are typically erected over a window, doorway, or building front and they may be raised or retracted to a position adjacent to the building. Balcony. A roofed or unroofed platform that projects from the exterior wall of a structure above the ground floor, which is exposed to the open air, has direct access to the interior of the building, and is not supported by posts or columns extending to the ground. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-3 Banner. A temporary sign printed upon flexible material mounted with or without rigid frames on a building. Bay Window. A window that projects outward from the structure, which does not rest on the building foundation or on the ground. Berm. An earthen mound designed to provide visual interest on a site, fully or partially screen undesirable views, reduce noise, or fulfill other similar purposes. Bike Facility. Improvements to accommodate bicyclists, including bike parking, bike lanes, and repair stations and the like. Bike Lane. A designated area within a street right-of-way reserved for bicycle travel and separated from the rest of the roadway by painted lines, other pavement markings, or physical barriers. Bike Share. A membership-based bike-sharing service that provides bike rental to members, billable by the hour or other time increments. Blank Wall. The horizontal linear dimension of contiguous building wall that does not contain fenestration, doors, or decorative elements such as banding, medallions, artwork such as murals and mosaics, change in wall plane of at least three inches, or other architectural or material embellishment. Any wall less than five feet in height is not considered to be a blank wall. Block. Defined in Section 21.4. Blockface. Defined in Section 21.4. Blue Roof. A roof designed to store water and discharge rainfall. Buffer. An area of dimensional separation between land uses, buildings, or structures, which is undeveloped, with installed screening and/or undisturbed and left in a natural condition. Buffer Yard. Land area with landscape plantings and other components used to separate one use from another and to shield or block noise, lights, or other nuisances. Build-To Zone (BTZ). Defined in Section 21.4. Build-Out Percentage. Defined in Section 21.4. Buildable Area. The portion of a lot, excluding required setbacks, where a structure or building improvements may be erected. Building. Any structure used or intended for supporting or sheltering any use or occupancy. Building Envelope. The three-dimensional space within which a structure is permitted to be built on a lot and which is defined by regulations governing building setbacks, maximum height, and bulk, by other regulations, and/or by any combination thereof. Building Coverage. Defined in Section 21.4. Building Height. Defined in Section 21.4. Building Line. A line measured at the building wall of a structure between lot lines including architectural features, such as facade modulation and bay windows. Building Permit. A permit issued by the duly designated building official authorizing the erection, construction, reconstruction, alteration, repair, conversion, or maintenance of a building, structure, or portion thereof. Building-Integrated Solar Energy System. A combination of solar panels and solar energy equipment integrated into any building envelope system such as vertical facades, semitransparent skylight systems, roofing materials, or shading over windows, which produce electricity for onsite consumption. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-4 Canopy. A canopy is a roof-like cover designed for protection from the weather or as a decorative embellishment affixed to a building or freestanding, with supports that extend to the ground. Car Share. A membership-based car-sharing service that provides automobile rental to members, billable by the hour or other time increments. Carport. An open-sided roofed vehicle shelter, usually formed by extension of the roof from the side of a building, but may be freestanding. A carport must be open on at least two sides. A carport attached to a structure is considered part of that structure. Certificate of Occupancy. A document issued by the proper authority allowing the occupancy or use of a building and certifying that the structure or use has been constructed or will be used in compliance with all the applicable municipal codes and ordinances Centerline (Road). A line representing the physical center of a roadway between road shoulders. Central Water Supply System. A permanently installed water supply system, including the facilities, works, and water sources used by such system, that is owned and operated by a single entity lawfully authorized to provide a supply of potable water to more than one user. A central water supply system may be a municipal central water system or a private central water system. Changeable Message Board. A sign designed where a portion of the sign area allows for a message to be changed manually. A changeable message board sign does not include electronic message signs or portable reader-board sign. Channel. A natural or artificial watercourse with a definite bed and banks that conducts continuously or periodically flowing water. Chicken Coop. An accessory structure where chickens are kept. Chimney. A vertical shaft of reinforced concrete, masonry or other approved material enclosing one or more flues, for the purpose of removing products of combustion from solid, liquid, or gaseous fuel. Clearing. Any activity that removes the vegetative surface cover. This can include, but is not limited to, logging equipment operation, the cutting and skidding of trees, stump removal and/or brush root removal. Coldframe Structure. A temporary unheated outdoor structure used for protecting seedlings and plants from the cold. Co-Location. Placement of equipment from more than one service or service provider on a single tower or site. Comprehensive Plan. The document adopted by the City Council containing policies for the general development of the City, which indicates the general location for physical growth of the community, together with any and all amendments thereto. Complete Streets. Infrastructure constructed/modified based on the Saratoga Springs Complete Streets Plan, as amended from time to time. Contour Line. Contour lines denote elevation or altitude and depth on maps. Conservation Easement. A perpetual restriction on the use of land, created in accordance with the provisions of Article 49, Title 3 of the Environmental Conservation Law or § 247 of the General Municipal Law, for the purposes of conservation of open space, agricultural land, and natural, cultural, historic, and scenic resources. Conservation Subdivision. A pattern of development that places dwelling units on those portions of a property most suitable for development, while leaving substantial portions as undeveloped open space. Contributing Historic Resource. A building, structure, site, or object located within a designated historic district that was constructed during the district’s period of significance and retains sufficient historic integrity to contribute to the architectural, cultural, or historical significance of the district. Corner Lot Element. An accentuated vertical element located on a building corner at a street intersection that can be located within a required step back. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-5 Cross-Access. A vehicular and/or pedestrian connection between abutting properties that connects the two sites and allows vehicles and/or pedestrians to travel between sites without the having to exit to the street. Day. A calendar day, unless otherwise specified as a business day in this Ordinance. Deck. A roofless outdoor space built as an above ground platform projecting from the wall of a structure and connected by structural supports at grade or by the structure. Density. The number of dwelling units per acre. Design Manual (Stormwater Management). The New York State Stormwater Management Design Manual, most recent version including applicable updates that serve as the official guide for stormwater management principles, methods and practices. Developer Agreement. An agreement between the City and the developer through which the City agrees to vest development use or intensity or refrain from interfering with subsequent phases or development through new legislation in exchange for provision of public facilities or amenities by the developer in excess of those required under current community regulations. Such agreements shall include "inclusionary housing agreements," etc. Dock. A fixed or floating structure, including moorings, used for the purpose of berthing buoyant vessels. Donation Box. An unmanned receptacle designed with a door, slot, or similar opening intended to accept and store donated clothes and household items. Dwelling. A structure, or portion thereof, designed exclusively for human habitation. Dwelling Unit. One or more habitable rooms which are occupied, or which are intended or designed to be occupied as a residence by one household or family, with facilities for living, sleeping, sanitation, and cooking. Easement. Authorization by an owner for the use, by others for a specific purpose, of a designated part of his property. Eave. The projecting lower edges of a roof overhanging the wall of a structure. Electronic Message Sign. A sign designed where a portion of the sign area uses changing light emitting diodes (LEDs), fiber optics, light bulbs or other illumination devices within the electronic display panel(s) to form a message or messages in text and/or image from where the sequence of messages and the rate of change is electronically programmed and can be modified by electronic processes. Time/temperature signs are not considered electronic message signs. Flashing signs, animated signs, and video display signs are not considered electronic message signs. Electrical Vehicle Charging Station. Vehicle battery charging equipment that supplies electric energy for the recharging of plug-in electric vehicles, including electric cars and plug-in hybrids. Encroachment. The extension, placement, or existence of any structure, or a component of such, into a required setback, adjacent property or right-of-way. Endwall. The wall of the end unit of a townhouse development that is not attached to another dwelling unit or party wall. Equine. A member of the equus genus of mammals in the family Equidae, including horses and ponies. Erect. To build, construct, attach, hang, place, suspend, or affix. Erosion Control Manual. The most recent version of the "New York State Standards and Specifications for Erosion and Sediment Control" manual, commonly known as the "Blue Book." Escape Well. A reinforced excavation that surrounds a basement window installed for emergency egress. External Illumination. Illumination by an artificial source of light not internal to the sign face. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-6 Exterior Lighting. The illumination of an outside area or object by any man-made device that produces light by any means. Exterior Stairwell. One or more flights of stairs, and the necessary landings and platforms connecting them, to form a continuous passage from the entryway of a floor or level to another in a structure located on the exterior of a principal building. Facade. An exterior building wall, from grade to the top of the parapet or eaves. A facade incorporates the full width of a building elevation, including any projections or recesses occurring across an elevation. The front facade is the principal elevation of a building and contains the building’s main entrance, the rear facade is the building’s rear exterior wall, and the side facades are a building’s side exterior walls. Family. One or more persons related by blood, marriage, civil union, or domestic partnership, and all adopted and foster children and all children under legal guardianship of any person in the household. A family is also defined as a group of no more than four unrelated persons maintaining a common household in a single dwelling unit. Farmland of Statewide Importance. Land, designated as “Farmland of Statewide Importance” in the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)’s Soil Survey Geographic (SSURGO) Database on Web Soil Survey, that is of statewide importance for the production of food, feed, fiber, forage, and oilseed crops as determined by the appropriate state agency or agencies. Farmland of Statewide Importance may include tracts of land that have been designated for agriculture by state law. Feather Flag/Sail. A freestanding attention-getting device, vertical in orientation, typically constructed of cloth held taut by a single post. Fence. A structure used as a boundary, screen, separation, means of privacy, protection or confinement, and is constructed of wood, plastic, metal, wire mesh, masonry, or other similar material and is used as a barrier, including retaining walls. 1. Fence - Open. A fence that has, over its entirety, more than 70% of the superficial surface consisting of regularly distributed openings. 2. Fence - Solid. A fence that has, over its entirety, no distributed openings. A shadowbox design fence is considered a solid fence. A chain link fence with slats is not considered a solid fence. Fence, Corral. Corral fences are fences designed and constructed with posts and two to four rails to contain animals. Final Plat. The final map upon which the owner's plan of subdivision is presented to the Board for approval, and which, if approved shall be submitted to the County Clerk for recording. The final plat is submitted as part of the final submission. Financial Security. Monetary backing provided by the owner, from a bank or financial institution, which guarantees the City that a specific amount of money will be kept available for the completion of an approved project. Said financial security is to be drawn on only by the City. First Floor Elevation. Defined in Section 21.4. Flag. Flags of any nation, state, municipality, or political subdivision, flags officially designated as a national, state, or local symbol, or flags of fraternal, religious, and civic organizations. Pennants and sails are not considered flags Floodlight. A powerful light, typically in a grouping of several lights, used to illuminate the exterior of a building or sign. Food Truck or Trailer. A motor vehicle or a food trailer towed by another vehicle, designed and equipped to prepare, assemble, and sell food and/or beverages directly to consumers. Foot-Candle. A unit of measure of illuminance equal to one lumen of light spread over an area of one square foot. Frontage. The boundary between a building and the right-of-way or the pavement of a public sidewalk. Frontage may also refer to the full linear dimension of this boundary. Garage. An accessory building or portion of a principal building used for the storage of motor vehicles of the occupants of the premises. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-7 Gazebo. A freestanding outdoor accessory structure with a roof designed for recreational use and not for habitation. Generic Legal Item Exchange Box. An outdoor accessory structure maintained by a property owner on private property where legal items such as books, recorded performing arts and media, puzzles, games, and the like, are kept for public and/or exchanges with no fees, sales, or other compensation and are publicly accessible. Glare. The effect by reflections of light with intensity sufficient as determined in a commercially reasonable manner to cause annoyance, discomfort, or loss in visual performance and visibility in any material respects. Grade. Defined in Section 21.4. Grading. Excavation or fill of material, including the resulting conditions thereof. Ground-Mounted Solar Energy System. A solar energy system that is anchored to the ground via a pole or other mounting system, detached from any other structure, that generates electricity for on-site or off-site consumption. Green Roof. A building roof partially or completely covered with vegetation and a growing medium, planted over a waterproofing membrane. It may also include additional layers such as a root barrier and drainage and irrigation systems. Greenhouse (Accessory). A structure constructed chiefly of glass, glasslike or translucent material, cloth, or lath, which is devoted to the protection or cultivation of flowers or other tender plants. Gross Floor Area (GFA). Defined in Section 21.4. Guestroom. A room occupied by one or more guests for compensation and in which no provision is made for cooking. Guestroom does not include rooms in a dormitory. Habitable/Living Space. A space in a building suitable for living, sleeping, cooking, bathing, washing or sanitation purposes. Hedge. A row of closely planted shrubs, bushes, or any kind of plant forming a boundary. Historically Significant Structure. The quality of a place, site, building, district or structure based upon its identification with historic persons or events in the City of Saratoga Springs. Home Occupation. Any commercial activity carried out for economic gain by a resident, conducted as an accessory use in the resident's dwelling unit. Telecommuting is not considered a home occupation. Horse Stable (Private). An accessory structure or land use that is designed, arranged, used, or intended to be used for the keeping of equines for the private use of the occupants of a principal building and their guests. Impervious Surface Coverage. Defined in Section 21.4. Industrial Stormwater Permit. A State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System permit issued to a commercial industry or group of industries which regulates the pollutant levels associated with industrial stormwater discharges or specifies on-site pollution control strategies. Infiltration. The process of percolating stormwater into the subsoil. Infrastructure. Facilities and services needed to sustain residential, commercial, industrial, institutional, and other activities, including, but not limited to, water lines, sewer lines, and rights-of-way. Institutional Use. A nonprofit, public, or quasi-public use, such as a place of worship, educational facility, hospital, assisted or custodial care facility, or government-owned or government-operated structure or land used for public purpose. Intensity of Use. Square feet of gross floor area, number of dwelling units, number of employees, or other factor used as a basis for requiring off-street parking or loading facilities. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-8 Land Disturbance Activity. Any activity including clearing, grading, excavating, filling, demolishing or stock piling that results in soil disturbance. Includes land development activity and construction activity. Landmark. A building, structure, site, object, or cultural resource that has been designated by the City Council pursuant to procedures described in Article 13.9.I, as having exceptional historical, architectural, cultural, or archaeological significance to the community, state, or nation and that retains sufficient integrity to convey that significance. Light Pole. Pole on which a luminaire is mounted. Light Pole Banner. Banners mounted on and with arms installed perpendicular to light poles. Lighting, Full Cut Off. A light distribution where the candela value is zero at or above horizontal (90°above nadir) and does not exceed 10% at or above a vertical angle of 80°above nadir. Lighting, Semi Cut Off. A light distribution where the candela value does not exceed 5% of the maximum intensity at or above horizontal (90°above nadir) and 20% at or above a vertical angle of 80°above nadir. Lot. Defined in Section 21.4. Lot Area. Defined in Section 21.4. Lot, Corner. Defined in Section 21.4. Lot Depth. Defined in Section 21.4. Lot, Interior. Defined in Section 21.4. Lot Line. Defined in Section 21.4. Lot Line, Corner. Defined in Section 21.4. Lot Line, Front. Defined in Section 21.4. Lot Line, Interior. Defined in Section 21.4. Lot Line, Rear. Defined in Section 21.4. Lot Line, Street. Defined in Section 21.4. Lot, Through. Defined in Section 21.4. Lot Width. Defined in Section 21.4. Maintenance Agreement (Stormwater Management). A legally recorded document that acts as a property deed restriction, and which provides for long-term maintenance of stormwater management practices. Marquee. A permanent roof-like structure that extends from the wall, with no supports extending to the ground, constructed over the entrance of a building of permanent building materials that includes a sign element along its edge for changeable messages, whether electronic or by hand. Metes and Bounds. A method of describing the boundaries of land by directions and distances from a known point of reference. Monument. A boundary or survey marker. Mural. A graphic displayed on the exterior of a building for the purposes of decoration or artistic expression, including but not limited to painting, fresco, or mosaic. A mural is public art and does not include any advertising or commercial content. Nadir. The angle pointing directly downward from the luminaire or 0°. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-9 Native Perennial Vegetation. Native wildflowers, forbs, and grasses that serve as habitat, forage, and migratory way stations for pollinators but excluding any prohibited or regulated invasive species as determined by the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation. Noncommercial Message. The expression of noncommercial ideas and messages. A noncommercial message does not promote a business, product, service, commercial entertainment, or other commercial activity offered on or off the premises. Nonconforming Lot. A lawful lot of record that predates comprehensive zoning or at one time conformed to the lot dimension requirements of the zoning district in which it is located, but because of this Ordinance, or a subsequent amendment to this Ordinance, does not meet current requirements. Nonconforming Sign. A sign that predates comprehensive zoning or at one time conformed to applicable zoning regulations, but because of this Ordinance, or a subsequent amendment to this Ordinance, does not meet current requirements. Nonconforming Site Element. A site development element, such as landscape or lighting, that predates comprehensive zoning or was constructed or installed in conformance with the applicable zoning regulations, but because of this Ordinance, or a subsequent amendment to this Ordinance, does not meet current requirements. Nonconforming Structure. A principal or accessory structure that predates June 1, 1980 comprehensive zoning or at one time conformed to applicable zoning regulations, but because of this Ordinance, or a subsequent amendment to this Ordinance, does not meet current requirements. Nonconforming Use. The use of a structure or land that predates June 1, 1980 comprehensive zoning or at one time was an allowed use within a zoning district, but because of this Ordinance, or a subsequent amendment to this Ordinance, is no longer allowed. Non-contributing. A feature, addition or building, structure, object or site which does not add to the sense of historical authenticity or evolution of an historic resource or landmark or where the location, design, setting, materials, workmanship, history, and/or association of the feature, addition or building, structure, object or site has been so altered or deteriorated that the overall integrity of that historic resource or landmark has been irretrievably lost. Non-Point Source Pollution. Pollution from any source other than from any discernible, confined, and discrete conveyances, and shall include, but not be limited to, pollutants from agricultural, silvicultural, mining, construction, subsurface disposal and urban runoff sources. Nonresidential Districts. Zoning districts that allow a variety of nonresidential uses such as retail, restaurant, service, and office, where such types of uses are the primary uses allowed, or where a wide range of commercial uses are allowed with residential uses to create mixed-use development. Nonresidential districts are identified in Section 2.1 as “Mixed-Use and Commercial Districts” (excluding AC, NCU and UN.), “Institutional Districts,” and “Industrial Districts.” Nonresidential Use. A structure or land used, or intended to be used for nonresidential uses, which includes, but is not limited to, retail, office, entertainment, recreation, public, institutional, and other nonresidential uses. Structures with multi-family dwellings with ground floor nonresidential uses are considered mixed-use development and considered a nonresidential use for the purposes of this Ordinance. Nonresidential Activities (For SWPPP). Any activity not included within definition of residential activity for purposes of establishing SWPPP requirements only. Nits. A luminance unit equal to one candle per square meter measured perpendicular to the rays from the source. Off-Premise Commercial Sign – Permanent. A permanent sign directing attention to a specific business, product, service, entertainment event, activity, or other commercial activity that is not sold, produced, manufactured, furnished, or conducted at the property upon which the sign is located. Off-Premise Commercial Sign – Temporary. A temporary sign directing attention to a specific business, product, service, entertainment event, activity, or other commercial activity that is not sold, produced, manufactured, furnished, or conducted at the property upon which the sign is located. This includes any ground-mounted, building-mounted, or sign painted, pasted, or otherwise affixed to any tree, rock, fence, utility pole, hydrant, bridge, sidewalk, parkway, curb or street, bench, or trash receptacle that directs attention off-premises. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-10 Off-Street Parking. The storage space for an automobile on premises other than streets or rights-of-way. Outdoor Display and Sales Area. Part of a lot used for outdoor sales and/or display of goods accessory to the principal use. Outlot. An area of land set aside within a retail center for a separate principal building that shares a circulation system and may share common parking with the larger retail center development but is separated from the principal building or buildings, typically located along the property line. Overlay District. A district established in the Ordinance that is superimposed on one or more zoning districts or parts of zoning districts. The standards and requirements associated with an overlay district may be more or less restrictive than those in the underlying districts. Owner. Any person or entity, including the owner of the title or a mortgage whose interest is shown of record in the mortgage and conveyance records; a person or entity shown as owner in the records of the tax assessor of the county in which the property is situated; or the agent of any such person or entity and those in possession of a dwelling, dwelling unit, or premises. Parapet. The extension of a false front or wall above a roofline. Parking Facility. A parking lot and/or parking structure. Parking facility does not include parking spaces and parking pads for individual dwelling units for single-family, two-family, or townhouse dwellings. Party Wall. A wall starting from the foundation and extending continuously through all stories to or above the roof that separates one building from another along a property line, but is in joint use by each building. Patio. A hard surface at or less than six inches above grade designed and intended for gathering or cooking and not used as a parking space. Patios are constructed such that its finished walking surface is laid or poured directly on finished grade. Pedestrian Facilities. Sidewalks, shared use paths, and similar facilities intended for pedestrian mobility. Performance Bond. An obligation in writing, under seal, issued by a surety company, satisfactory to the City, binding the obligator to pay a sum of money to the City if the obligor fails to satisfactorily install and/or maintain improvements as required under § 33 of the General City Law, including escrow agreement and other similar collateral or surety agreements. Pergola. An open structure, which may be either freestanding or attached to a structure, that forms a partially shaded pedestrian walkway, passageway, or sitting area, and is constructed of a semi-open roof and vertical posts that support cross-beams and a sturdy open lattice. If attached to a structure, it is considered part of the building. Freestanding pergolas are considered accessory structures. Personal Recreation Game Court. Game courts for sports such as tennis or basketball for the private use of the occupants of the property. Pervious Paving. A range of sustainable materials and techniques for permeable paving with a base and sub-base that allow the movement of stormwater through the surface. Gravel and loose rock are not considered pervious paving. Phasing (Stormwater Management). Clearing a parcel of land in distinct pieces or parts, with the stabilization of each piece completed before the clearing of the next. Planning Department Staff. Staff of the Saratoga Springs Office of Planning and Economic Development that provides technical assistance on development applications made to the City's Land Use Boards as well as other planning and development duties. Plat. A map representing a tract of land illustrating the boundaries and location of individual properties and streets, or a map of a subdivision or planned unit development site plan. Pollinator. Bees, birds, bats, and other insects or wildlife that pollinate flowering plants, and includes both wild and managed insects. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-11 Pollutant of Concern. Sediment or a water quality measurement that addresses sediment (such as total suspended solids, turbidity or siltation) and any other pollutant that has been identified as a cause of impairment of any water body that will receive a discharge from the land disturbance activity. Preliminary Plat. A drawing showing the salient features of a proposed subdivision submitted to the Board for its consideration prior to submission of the final plat. The preliminary plat is submitted as part of the preliminary submission. Porch. An architectural feature that projects from the exterior wall of a structure, has direct access to the street level of the building, and is covered by a roof or eaves. Porch – Unenclosed. A porch that is open on all sides that do not abut a principal building wall. Porch – Enclosed. A porch enclosed by walls, screens, lattice or other material. A screened-in porch is an enclosed porch. Porte Cochere. A permanent structure built over a driveway or entry drive attached to a dwelling that provides temporary shelter to persons exiting a vehicle. Property Line. A lot line. (See lot line definition.) Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-12 Prime Farmland. Land designated as “Prime Farmland” in the U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS)’s Soil Survey Geographic (SSURGO) Database on Web Soil Survey, that has the best combination of physical and chemical characteristics for producing food, feed, forage, fiber, and oilseed crops and is also available for these land uses. Principal Building. A non-accessory structure in which a principal use of the lot on which it is located is conducted. Principal Use. The main use of land or structures as distinguished from an accessory use. Public Art. Art in any media that has been planned and executed with the intention of being staged in the physical public domain, usually outdoors and accessible to all. Public Utility. A closely regulated private enterprise with an exclusive franchise for providing a public service deemed necessary for the public health, safety and welfare. Public Utility Facilities. Telephone, electric and cable television lines, poles, equipment and structures; water or gas pipes, mains, valves or structures; sewer pipes, valves or structures; pumping stations; telephone exchanges and repeater stations; and all other facilities, equipment and structures necessary for conducting a service by a government or a public utility. Recharge. The replenishment of underground water reserves. Recreational Vehicle. Any vehicle or boat designed for temporary living quarters, recreation, or temporary human habitation and not used as a commercial vehicle including, but not limited to, the following: boat/watercraft, camper trailer, motorized trailer, off-road vehicle, racing car or cycle, travel trailer, and truck camper. Refuse Container. A container for the collection of refuse with a hooking mechanism that permits it to be raised and dumped into a sanitation truck typically between one to two cubic yards. Recycling Containers. A container for the collection of recyclables. Residential Districts. Zoning districts where the primary permitted use is residential. Residential districts, within the use structure, may allow very limited compatible nonresidential uses, such as places of worship. Residential districts are identified in Section 2.1 as “Residential Districts” and include the NCU, AC, and UN Districts Residential Use. A structure designed and used or intended to be used for residential occupancy by one or more households, such as single-family, two-family, townhouse, and multi-family dwellings. Multi-family dwellings with ground floor nonresidential uses are considered mixed-use development and are considered a nonresidential use for the purposes of this Ordinance. Residential Activity (For SWPPP). Activities related to the development of living quarters for single-family or two- family dwelling units for purposes of establishing SWPPP requirements only. Right-of-Way. A strip of land dedicated for use as a public way. In addition to the roadway, it typically incorporates the curbs, tree belt, sidewalks, and shoulders. Roof-Mounted Solar Energy System. A solar energy system located on the roof of any legally permitted building or structure that produces electricity for on-site or off-site consumption. Roofline. The top edge of a roof or building parapet, whichever is higher, excluding any cupolas, pylons, chimneys, or minor projections. Satellite Dish Antenna. A dish antenna designed for transmitting signals to a receiver or receiving station or for receiving television, radio, data, communication, or other signals from other antennas, satellites, or other services. Secretary of the Interior's Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties. Principles developed by the National Park Service (36 CFR 68.3, as may be amended) to help protect historic properties by promoting consistent preservation practices and providing guidance to historic building owners and building managers, preservation consultants, architects, contractors, and project reviewers on how to approach the treatment of historic properties. The Secretary of the Interior Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties may also be referred to in this local law as "Secretary of the Interior's Standards." Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-13 Searchlight. An attention-getting device where an artificial light of high intensity is shined upward in a focused beam and can turn in any direction to attract attention to a location. Also known as sky-beams or sky spotlights. Sediment Control. Measures that prevent eroded sediment from leaving the site. Sensitive Areas (Stormwater Management). Cold water fisheries, shellfish beds, swimming beaches, groundwater recharge areas, water supply reservoirs, habitats for threatened, endangered, or special concern species. SEQRA. The State Environmental Quality Review Act of New York State as defined in 6 NYCRR 617. Setback. Defined in Section 21.4. Setback, Corner Side. Defined in Section 21.4. Setback, Front. Defined in Section 21.4. Setback, Interior Side. Defined in Section 21.4. Setback, Parking. Defined in Section 21.4. Setback, Rear. Defined in Section 21.4. Setback, Street. Defined in Section 21.4 Shared Use Path. A path that supports multiple recreation and transportation opportunities, such as walking, bicycling, and wheelchairs. Shed. An accessory structure, often purchased pre-built or as a kit in pre-fabricated sections, that is not designed to be served by heat or plumbing and does not need to be placed on a permanent foundation. A shed is typically intended to store lawn, garden, or recreational equipment. Sign. A lettered, numbered, symbolic, pictorial, or illuminated visual display designed to identify, announce, direct, or inform that is visible from a public right of way. Sign, A-Frame. A temporary sign ordinarily in the shape of the letter “A” or some variation thereof, which is displayed on the ground, not permanently attached to the ground, and usually two-sided, generally connected at the top and separated at the bottom. Sign, Animated. A sign that uses moving or changing lights to depict action, movement, or the optical illusion of movement of part of the sign structure, sign, or pictorial segment, or including the movement of any illumination or the flashing or varying of light intensity to create a special effect or scene. Animated signs do not include electronic message signs. Sign, Awning. An awning is a roof-like cover designed for protection from the weather or as a decorative embellishment, which projects from a wall or roof of a structure over a window, walkway, or door, with no supports that extend to the ground. An awning sign is a sign printed or displayed upon an awning. Sign, Balloon. A sign or advertising device designed to be airborne or inflated and tethered to the ground or other structure. This includes any air-inflated signs and any signs that inflate and move via air inflation. Sign, Blade. A sign that is attached to a rigid structure that extends more than 12 inches beyond the surface of the structure to which it is attached. Sign, Canopy. A canopy sign is a sign printed, mounted, or installed upon a canopy. A sign canopy may be one of two types: 1. Canopy - Non-Structural. A roofed structure attached to a building, which is not integral to the structure, that is made of durable, weather-resistant material such as canvas, canvas-like material, nylon, or vinyl-coated fabric, placed to extend outward from the building and is supported both by mountings on the structure wall and by supports that extend to the ground. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-14 2. Canopy - Structural. A roofed structure constructed of permanent building materials, such as metal, brick, stone, wood or similar building materials, that is constructed as part of and attached to a building, extends outward from the building, and is supported both by the structure and by supports that extend to the ground. Sign, Drive-Through. A sign constructed as part of drive-through facilities. Sign, Flashing. A sign with an intermittent or sequential flashing light source used primarily to attract attention. Flashing signs do not include electronic message signs. Sign, Freestanding. A sign that is placed on or supported by the ground, independent of the principal structure on the lot. Sign, Gateway. A sign that is installed over a pedestrian entryway and supported by the ground, independent of the principal structure on the lot, designed as an entryway feature to the property. Sign, Ghost. A painted wall sign that remains from an earlier time or advertises the use of a building that provides evidence of the history of the use of the building or activities of the community. A ghost sign is not an off-premise sign. Sign, Moving. A sign where the entire sign structure or a portion of which rotates, moves, elevates, or in any way alters position or geometry. A tri-vision sign where triangular prisms rotate inside a frame to show a new message and/or information are considered moving signs. Moving signs do not include clocks or barber poles. Sign, Portable. A sign whose principal supporting structure is intended, by design and construction, to rest upon the ground for support and may be easily moved or relocated for reuse. Portable signs include, but are not limited to, signs mounted upon a trailer, wheeled carrier, or other non-motorized mobile structure, with wheels or with wheels removed. Portable signs do not include a-frame signs. Sign, Roof. A sign that is erected, constructed, or maintained on and/or extending above the roof structure or parapet of any building with the principal support attached to the roof structure. Sign, Wall (Standard). A sign that is attached directly to an exterior wall of a building or dependent upon a building for support and projects 18 inches or less from the wall of a structure with the exposed face of the sign in a plane substantially parallel to the face of the wall. Window signs are not considered wall signs. Sign, Wall (Painted). A sign that is painted, applied, or affixed directly on the exterior wall of a building or structure. A painted wall sign is not limited to only the application of paint, but includes other methods of application and/or material, including, but not limited to tiles or screen-printing. Sign, Wall (Projected). A sign that is projected by an optical device that projects an image directly onto the exterior wall of a building or structure by light or other technological means. Sign, Window. A sign that is attached directly to, placed directly upon, or printed directly on the interior or exterior of a window or door of a building, or a sign placed on the interior within three feet of a window intended for viewing from the exterior of such a building. A window sign may be either permanent or temporary. Shadowbox design within display windows, where the window display is designed with a background enclosure against which signs are mounted that blocks view into the establishment, is considered a window sign and the entire area of the shadowbox is subject to the maximum sign area limitation. Significant Tree. A broadleaf tree that measures 12 inches or more in diameter at breast height or a coniferous tree that measures 24 inches or more in diameter at breast height. Any tree of an invasive species, regardless of size, is not considered a significant tree. Sketch Plan. A concept, informal map of a proposed subdivision or planned unit development site plan of sufficient accuracy to be used for the purpose of discussion and classification. Solar Energy Equipment. Electrical material, hardware, inverters, conduit, storage devices, or other electrical and photovoltaic equipment associated with the production of electricity. Solar Energy System. The components and subsystems required to convert solar energy into electric energy suitable for use. The term includes, but is not limited to, solar panels and solar energy equipment. The area of a solar energy system includes all the land inside the perimeter of the solar energy system, which extends to any Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-15 interconnection equipment. A solar energy system is classified as a Tier 1, Tier 2, or Tier 3 solar energy system as follows: 1. Tier 1 solar energy systems include the following: a. Roof-mounted solar energy systems b. Building-integrated solar energy systems 2. Tier 2 solar energy systems include ground-mounted solar energy systems with system capacity up to 25 kW AC and that generate no more than 110% of the electricity consumed on the site over the previous 12 months. 3. Tier 3 solar energy systems are systems that do not meet the definitions of Tier 1 and Tier 2 solar energy systems. Solar Panel. A photovoltaic device capable of collecting and converting solar energy into electricity. SPDES General Permit for Construction Activities GP-0-20-001 (as amended or revised). A permit under the New York State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (SPDES) issued to developers of construction activities to regulate disturbance of one or more acres of land. SPDES General Permit for Stormwater Discharges from Municipal Separate Stormwater Sewer Systems GP- 0-15-003 (as amended or revised). A permit under the New York State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (SPDES) issued to municipalities to regulate discharges from municipal separate storm sewers for compliance with EPA established water quality standards and/or to specify stormwater control standards. Stabilization. The use of practices that prevent exposed soil from eroding. Stacking Space. A space specifically designed and designated as a waiting area for vehicles patronizing a drive- through facility or service bay. Standpipe. A rigid vertical or horizontal pipe to which fire hoses can be connected, which may be building, ground, or roof mounted. State Historic Preservation Office (SHPO). The New York SHPO administers programs authorized by both the National Historic Preservation Act of 1966 and the New York State Historic Preservation Act of 1980. SHPO administers these functions: State and National Registers of Historic Places, historic rehabilitation tax credit programs, historic preservation technical assistance, consultation, and review for both above ground and below ground cultural resources, Certified Local Government (CLG) program, grants, historic resource survey and evaluation, and historic preservation education and outreach. Stepback. In building height, a stepback is the required additional distance that upper stories of a structure must be recessed from the facade of the stories below. Stoop. An exterior floor typically, constructed of stone, concrete, and/or masonry, with a finished floor elevation higher than the adjacent ground level, often with steps leading up to it, and utilized primarily as an access platform to a structure. A stoop may be roofed and designed with railings, but cannot be enclosed. Stop-Work Order. An order issued which requires construction activity on a site be stopped. Storage Battery. A device that stores energy and makes it available in an electrical form. Stormwater. Rainwater, surface runoff, snowmelt and drainage. Stormwater Hotspot. A land use or activity that generates higher concentrations of hydrocarbons, trace metals or toxicants than are found in typical stormwater runoff, based on monitoring studies. Stormwater Management. The use of structural or nonstructural practices that are designed to reduce stormwater runoff and mitigate its adverse impacts on property, natural resources and the environment. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-16 Stormwater Management Facility. One or a series of stormwater management practices installed, stabilized and operating for the purpose of controlling stormwater runoff. Stormwater Management Practices (SMPs). Measures, either structural or nonstructural, that are determined to be the most effective, practical means of preventing flood damage and preventing or reducing point source or non-point source pollution inputs to stormwater runoff and water bodies. Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). A plan for controlling stormwater runoff and pollutants from a site during and after construction activities. Stormwater Runoff. Flow on the surface of the ground, resulting from precipitation. Stream. A watercourse having a source and a terminus, banks and channel through which water flows at least periodically. Structural Alteration. Any change, other than incidental repairs, which would prolong the life of supporting members of a structure, such as the addition, removal, or alteration of bearing walls, columns, beams, girders or foundations. Structure. Any constructed or placed material in or upon the ground, including buildings, towers, sheds, pools, signs and the like, but excluding sidewalks, paving, grading, patios, and the like. Subdivision. The division of a lot, tract, or parcel of land into two or more lots. Surface Waters of the State of New York. Lakes, bays, sounds, ponds, impounding reservoirs, springs, wells, rivers, streams, creeks, estuaries, marshes, inlets, canals, the Atlantic ocean within the territorial seas of the state of New York and all other bodies of surface water, natural or artificial, inland or coastal, fresh or salt, public or private (except those private waters that do not combine or effect a junction with natural surface or underground waters), which are wholly or partially within or bordering the state or within its jurisdiction. Storm sewers and waste treatment systems, including treatment ponds or lagoons which also meet the criteria of this definition are not waters of the state. This exclusion applies only to man-made bodies of water which neither were originally created in waters of the state (such as a disposal area in wetlands) nor resulted from impoundment of waters of the state. Survey. The process of precisely ascertaining the area dimensions of a piece of land and conducted by an individual licensed by the New York State Department of Education. This process may also involve ascertaining the precise location of naturally occurring or built features, and topography. Tasting Room. An area within an alcohol production facility where guests may sample products produced on-site. Timber Harvesting. The felling and trimming trees and subsequent transportation of the logs to a mill. Unified Control. The combination of two or more tracts of land wherein each owner has agreed that his tract of land will be developed under the same development approvals. Use. The purpose or activity for which the land or structure is designed, arranged, or intended, or for which it is occupied or maintained. Video Display Sign. A sign, or portion of a sign, that displays an electronic video, whether pre-recorded or streaming. This includes projection of an electronic video on a wall or other surface. Watercourse. Any stream, pond, lake, drainage channel, or other area of land that is normally filled with water. Boundaries of a watercourse are measured at the high-water mark. Waterway. A channel that directs surface runoff to a watercourse or to the public storm drain. Wetland. An area that is inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a frequency and duration sufficient to support a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions, commonly known as hydrophytic vegetation. Wetland, Jurisdictional. An area of land that is characterized by hydrophytic vegetation, saturated soils, or periodic inundation, which is classified as a wetland or by either the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation or the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-17 Wind Turbine. A device that converts the wind's kinetic energy into electrical energy. White Roof. A roof designed to deliver high solar reflectance, reducing heat transfer to the building and the ability to radiate absorbed, or non-reflected solar energy. Yard. Defined in Section 21.4. Yard, Front. Defined in Section 21.4. Yard, Interior Side. Defined in Section 21.4. Yard, Corner Side. Defined in Section 21.4. Yard, Rear. Defined in Section 21.4. Zoning Lot. A lot or combination of lots within a single block, which may be designated by its owner or developer, or by the Zoning Officer to be used, developed, or built upon as a unit. A zoning lot may coincide with a lot of record or may be comprised of one or more lots of record under common ownership as specified in the conditions of Section 19.4. Zoning Officer. The administrative officer, or his/her designee, charged with enforcing the provisions of this Ordinance. 21.4 RULES OF MEASUREMENT This section provides the rules of measurement for the dimensional standards and locational characteristics within the Ordinance. A. Block and Blockface 1. A block is a tract of land bounded by streets, or a combination of streets and railroad rights-of-way. 2. Blockface is measured as that portion of a block or tract of land facing the same side of a single street and lying between the closest intersecting streets. BLOCK AND BLOCKFACE Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-18 B. Build-To Dimensions Certain dimensional requirements with the district require structures to be constructed at a build-to dimension. A build-to requirement is a boundary or alignment, parallel to a lot line, where a structure must be placed. This Ordinance includes two types of build-to dimensions: 1. Build-To Zone (BTZ) A build-to zone (BTZ) is the area on a lot, measured perpendicular from the applicable lot line, where the building line must locate within the minimum and maximum range of setback provided. The building line must be located within the build-to zone. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-19 2. Build-Out Percentage A build-out percentage specifies the percentage of the total lot width that must be occupied by the building line within the build-to zone. Public civic space included on-site, designed per the standards of Section 9.3, will count as part of the building line for the purposes of calculating the build-out percentage. BUILD-TO ZONE (BTZ): MINIMUM DIMENSION BEGINS AT LOT LINE (For example, a 0'-5' BTZ) BUILD-TO ZONE (BTZ): MINIMUM DIMENSION BEGINS BEHIND LOT LINE (For example, a 5'-15' BTZ) Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-20 BUILD-OUT PERCENTAGE C. Building Coverage That portion of the lot that is covered by principal buildings and accessory structures. Building coverage is measured from all overhangs and above ground projections such as eaves, cornices, bay windows, and balconies, and all ground level projections such as window wells, escape wells, porches, and decks. D. Building Height 1. Maximum building height is measured from grade (see item G below) at each side of the building as follows: a. The top of a flat roof, including structures designed with a decorative mansard roof concealing a flat roof. b. The midpoint between the ridge and the first hip or curb of a mansard or gambrel roof. c. The midpoint height between the eaves and the ridge in the case of a pitched roof. d. Any dormers on the roof that extend past the roofline cannot exceed the maximum building height permitted in the district, as measured from the adjacent average grade, or its equivalent, to the top of the dormer. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-21 2. For the purposes of building height measurement, roof types are defined as follows: a. Flat Roof: A roof that is not pitched and where the surface of the roof is generally parallel to the ground. A mono-pitched roof with a pitch of 2:12 or less, also called a shed roof, is a single-sloping roof surface, and is also considered a flat roof. b. Mansard or Gambrel Roof: A two-sided roof with two slopes on each side. The upper slope is positioned at a shallow angle, while the lower slope is steep. A gambrel roof has vertical gable ends, while a mansard roof is hipped at the four corners of the building. c. Pitched Roof: A gable or hip roof having a slope or pitch of at least one foot rise for each four feet of horizontal distance in the direction of the slope or pitch of the roof. A hipped roof is sloped in two pairs of directions compared to the one pair of direction for a gable roof. 3. The following architectural features and mechanical equipment are exempt from maximum height limitations, unless otherwise limited by any height restriction imposed by any airport authority, or other similar federal, state, or local authority. Such architectural features or mechanical equipment cannot exceed 25% in aggregate coverage of the roof area and cannot be used for human occupancy. a. Public utility poles, towers, and wires. Public utilities do not include wireless telecommunications, solar panels, and wind turbines unless operated by a government agency. b. Water tanks and standpipes. c. Building appurtenances such as chimneys, parapet walls up to 48 inches in height, skylights, steeples, flag poles, smokestacks, cooling towers, elevator bulkheads, monuments, stacks, ornamental towers and spires, unoccupied rooftop accessory structures, or penthouses to house mechanical equipment and the like. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-22 BUILDING HEIGHT E. Caliper Tree caliper is the diameter of a tree trunk, measured at four and one-half feet above the adjacent ground. F. First Floor Elevation The supporting base upon which a building sits and the finished elevation of the first floor living space as measured from grade as described in this section. Grade for first floor elevation is measured as follows: 1. The grade for measurement is the existing grade of adjacent lots or the existing grade of the sidewalk, as applicable. a. For an interior lot, the average of the existing grade at the interior side lot line of each adjacent lot. b. For a corner lot, the average of the existing grade at the interior side lot line of the adjacent lot and the grade of the adjacent sidewalk at the corner lot line. c. Where there is a difference in grade between the interior side lot lines, or in the case of a corner lot between the interior side lot line and the corner side lot line, the average between the two lot lines is used. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-23 2. For the subject lot, the grade used is the existing grade prior to any grading of the subject lot before construction. G. Grade The average of the finished ground level at six feet from the face of the building or the property line, whichever is less, of each wall of a building measured vertically along the facade and averaged. H. Gross Floor Area (GFA) The gross floor area (GFA) of a structure is the sum of the gross horizontal areas of all floors of the structure as measured from the exterior faces of the exterior walls or from the centerline of walls separating two buildings. I. Impervious Surface Coverage (non-SWPPP) Note: the following definition and measurement methodology applies to projects and properties not covered by an approved Stormwater Pollution Prevention Plan (SWPPP). Projects and properties covered by SWPPP shall utilize the Impervious Cover definition and methodology as specified in the NYS Stormwater Management Design Manual. 1. Impervious surface coverage is a measure of intensity of land use that represents the portion of a site that is occupied by structures, pavement, and other impervious surfaces that do not allow for the absorption of water into the ground. Maximum impervious surface of a lot is calculated as the percentage of all impervious surface area against the total area of the lot. 2. Impervious surfaces include: paved and gravel road surfaces, paved and gravel parking lots, paved and gravel driveways, paved sidewalks, building structures, decks, and miscellaneous impermeable structures such as patios, pools, and sheds. 3. Permeable pavement includes any materials installed, operated, and maintained to permit the passage of water through the pavement, including, but not limited to, porous concrete, porous asphalt, permeable interlocking concrete pavers, and concrete grid pavers. Permeable pavement is permitted, but will be calculated as impervious surface unless it can be materially demonstrated that the effective infiltration rate of the surface meets or exceeds 1.1 inches / hour. Permeable pavement must be designed in accordance with the NYS Stormwater Management Design Manual and installed per manufacturer’s instructions in order to be eligible for consideration as a permeable surface. J. Lot A lot is the basic development unit for determination of lot area, depth, and other dimensional regulations; or a parcel of land whose boundaries have been established by some legal instrument such as a recorded deed or recorded map and which is recognized as a separate legal entity for purposes of transfer of title or a zoning lot as defined or specified in this Ordinance. The following describes the types of lot configurations: 1. An interior lot is a lot other than a corner or through lot, bounded by two interior side lot lines. 2. A corner lot is a lot situated at the junction of, and abutting on, two or more intersecting streets. 3. A through lot is a lot which fronts upon two parallel streets, or which fronts upon two streets which do not intersect at the boundaries of the lot. A through lot is also called a double frontage lot. 4. A flag lot is platted so that the main building site area (the “flag”) is set back from the street on which it fronts and includes an access strip (the “pole”) connecting the main building site with the street. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-24 LOT K. Lot Area The total area within the boundaries of a lot, excluding any street right-of-way, usually defined in square footage. L. Lot Depth The distance from the front lot line to the rear lot line as measured from the midpoint of the front lot line to the midpoint of the rear lot line. In the case of triangular or similarly irregularly shaped lots, the rear lot line used to measure lot depth is a calculated line of ten feet in length entirely within the lot, parallel to and at a maximum distance from the front lot line. M. Lot Line A line of record bounding a lot, as indicated on an approved, filed, and recorded subdivision plat, which divides one lot from another lot or from a public or private street or any other public or private space and includes: 1. A front lot line is the lot line separating a lot from a street right-of-way. The front lot line of a corner lot is the shortest street lot line of a corner lot abutting a street. A front lot line for a through lot is both lot lines that abut a street. On a corner lot, where both street lot lines are equal, the applicant may choose which lot line is the front lot line. 2. A rear lot line is the lot line opposite and most distant from the front lot line. In the case of triangular or similarly irregularly shaped lots, the rear lot line is a calculated line of ten feet in length entirely within the lot, parallel to and at a maximum distance from the front lot line. 3. On a corner lot, the corner side lot line is perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to the front lot line and is the longer street abutting lot line of a corner lot. On a corner lot, where both street lot lines are equal, the applicant may choose which lot line is the corner side lot line. 4. On an interior lot, the interior side lot line is perpendicular or approximately perpendicular to the front lot line and abuts an adjacent lot. 5. A street lot line is any lot line separating a lot from a street right-of-way. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-25 LOT AREA, LOT DEPTH, AND LOT LINES N. Lot Width 1. Lot width is calculated as the average of the lot width at the front lot line, the lot width at the rear lot line, and the lot width at the midpoint of the lot. 2. For lots with a curved front lot line, the width of the front lot line is a chord measured as a straight line segment that intersects each of the two end points of the curved lot line 3. For flag lots, the lot width used for the front lot line is that of the front setback line, as defined in this section. The midpoint of the lot is calculated as the midpoint between the front setback line and the rear lot line. LOT WIDTH Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-26 O. Separation Measurement When uses are required to be measured a certain distance from another use or district, such separation distance is measured from a point of the lot line on which such use is proposed to be located to the nearest point on the lot line where the other use or district is located. P. Sign Dimensions 1. Calculation of Sign Area a. The sign area of each sign is the total exposed surface devoted to the sign’s message, including all ornamentation, embellishment, symbols, logos, letters, characters, other figures, or frames, whether structural or decorative. The calculation of sign area does not include any supports or bracing. For channel letters or freestanding logos/symbols, the sign area is calculated as the customary, applicable mathematical formula for the total area of each square, circle, ellipse, rectangle, or triangle, or combination thereof, that encompasses each word, logo, image, background, and/or display. b. Window area for the purpose of calculating maximum area of window signs is calculated as a continuous surface until divided by an architectural or structural element. Muntins or mullions one inch or less in size are not considered an element that divides window area. Total window area is calculated as length times width of the window area. Only the individual letters or logos of the window sign shall be used in the calculation of surface area. The transparent film around the perimeter of the individual letters or logos comprising the window sign and used to affix the window sign to the interior or exterior of a windowpane or glass door shall be exempt from the area calculations, provided that such portion of the transparent film maintains 100% transparency of the window. SIGN AREA - SIGN WITH BACKGROUND Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-27 SIGN AREA - CHANNEL LETTERS/FREESTANDING LOGOS SIGN AREA - WINDOW SIGNS 2. Measurement of Sign Height For ground signs, sign height is measured as the vertical distance measured from the normal grade at the base of the sign to the highest point of the sign, including any decorative elements. Normal grade shall be construed to be the existing grade prior to construction or the newly established grade after construction, exclusive of any fill, berm, mound, or excavation solely for the purpose of locating the sign, whichever is lower. 3. Measurement of Vertical Clearance For building-mounted signs, vertical clearance is measured as the vertical distance measured from the ground directly below the sign to the lowest point of the sign. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-28 SIGN HEIGHT VERTICAL CLEARANCE 4. Determination of Number of Sign Faces If the interior angle between two sign faces is 45° (degrees) or less, the sign area is computed as the area of one face only. If the angle between two sign faces is greater than 45° (degrees), the total sign area is computed as the sum of the areas of the two faces. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-29 5. Sign Setback A required sign setback is measured from the applicable lot line to the closest component of the sign or sign structure. Q. Yards and Setbacks 1. General Definitions a. A yard is the open space area between the building line of a principal building and the adjoining lot lines, exclusive of facade articulation, such as window or wall recesses and projections. b. A required setback is the required minimum distance a principal building must be located from a lot line, which is unoccupied and unobstructed by any projections of a principal building, unless permitted by this Ordinance. i. A build-to zone is considered a required setback. In the case of a build-to zone, the setback is the defined area (defined by minimum and maximum build-to lines) where the principal building must be located. c. A setback may be equal to or lesser than a yard. d. A setback is located along the applicable lot line for the minimum depth specified by the zoning district in which such lot is located. 2. Front Yard and Front Setback The front yard and front setback extend the full width of the lot between side lot lines measured perpendicular to the front lot line. a. Front Yard: A front yard is located between a principal building line and the front lot line. b. Front Setback: A front setback is the required minimum distance per the zoning district that a principal building must be located from the front lot line. c. Front setbacks on irregular lots are subject to the additional provisions: i. On a lot with a radial (curved) front lot line, the required front setback, as measured from the right- of-way line follows the curve of the lot line. ii. For flag lots, the front yard and setback is measured from the rear lot line of the lot that separates the flag portion of the lot from the street. For multiple flag lots that utilize a common drive, the front yard and setback may be measured from the lot line of the pole or access strip, as extended into the lot. d. Front setback averaging is calculated as per Section 3.3.B.1. 3. Interior Side Yard and Interior Side Setback The interior side yard and interior side setback extend along the interior side lot line between the front and rear yard or setback, measured perpendicular to the interior side lot line. a. Interior Side Yard: An interior side yard is located between a principal building line and the interior side lot line. b. Interior Side Setback: An interior side setback is the required minimum distance per the zoning district that a principal building must be located from the interior side lot line. c. Total Interior Side Setback: The total combined interior side setback required on the lot. This standard does not apply to corner lots. d. For single-family semi-detached and single-family attached developments, the interior side yard and interior side setback are only applicable to the side of the unit not located on the lot line (no shared wall attachment to another unit). For townhouse developments, the interior side yard and interior side setback are only applicable to end units of the development townhouse building. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-30 4. Corner Side Yard and Corner Side Setback The corner side yard and corner side setback extend along the corner side lot line between the front yard or front setback and the rear lot line, measured perpendicular to the corner side lot line. a. Corner Side Yard: A corner side yard is located between a principal building line and the corner side lot line. b. Corner Side Setback: A corner side setback is the required minimum distance per the zoning district that a principal building must be located from the corner side lot line. 5. Rear Yard and Rear Setback The rear yard and rear setback extend between interior side lot lines, measured perpendicular to the rear lot line. a. Rear Yard: A rear yard is located between a principal building line and the rear lot line. b. Rear Setback: A rear setback is the required minimum distance per the zoning district that a principal building must be located from the rear lot line. c. In the case of a corner lot, the rear yard and rear setback extend between the interior side lot line to the required corner side setback, measured perpendicular to the rear lot line. 7. Yard and Setback Requirements for Through Lots For through lots, both the front and the rear required setbacks must meet the required front setback of the zoning district. Article 21. Definitions & Measurement Methodologies City of Saratoga Springs UDO March 2022 21-31 YARDS AND SETBACKS