93-66

Open Area Requirements in the Large-Scale Plan Subdistrict A

In Subareas A2 through A5 of the Large-Scale Plan Subdistrict A, the provisions of this Section shall apply to all open areas between the street wall of any development or enlargement and the street line.

(a)        Where such open areas are sidewalk widenings required pursuant to Section 93-61, or where a sidewalk widening is not required but an open area extends along the entire street line of the zoning lot, no obstructions shall be permitted within such open areas within five feet of the street line. Beyond five feet of the street line, up to a distance of 10 feet from the street line, obstructions shall be limited to seating, tables, and trees planted flush to grade. Any open area provided beyond 10 feet of the street line shall comply with the provisions of paragraphs (b) through (d) of this Section, as applicable.

(b)        All open areas less than 1,200 square feet in area, or open areas of any size but with a width or depth of less than 30 feet, shall be paved or contain landscaping. Paved areas shall be at the same elevation as the adjoining sidewalk or any adjoining public access area required pursuant to this Chapter.

(c)        All open areas at least 1,200 square feet in area, and with a width and depth of at least 30 feet, shall be paved and contain landscaping. Paved areas shall not be more than 2 feet, 6 inches above or below the level of the adjoining sidewalk or any adjoining public access area required pursuant to this Chapter.

(d)        Open areas described in paragraphs (b) and (c) of this Section may be occupied by features, equipment and appurtenances normally found in public parks and playgrounds, as listed in Section 37-726 (Permitted obstructions). In addition, gates or fences shall be permitted for open areas described in paragraph (c) of this Section, provided such gates are fully open during business hours, such gates or fences are not higher than five feet, and are a minimum of 65 percent open to permit visibility of the open area. No parking areas shall be permitted in any open area. Driveways in any open area shall lead directly to an enclosed parking or loading facility, except that portes-cocheres are allowed in any open area on zoning lots with at least 80,000 square feet of lot area. Building trash storage facilities and mechanical equipment shall be screened by a wall or planted area sufficient to visually conceal these facilities from the street or any public access area. All paved areas shall be accessible to the public during business hours and have lighting with a minimum level of two foot candles. Edges of planters in all landscaped areas shall not be higher than 2 feet, 6 inches above the level of any adjacent paved area.

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