Agenda Packet 9-16-19 Work Session

Home Browse Search

Findings Addressing ORS 197.312(5) September 3, 2019 4 Findings: Maximum lot coverage standards are related to both siting and design. In terms of “relating to siting,” the standard relates to the “space of ground occupied by or to be occupied by a building.” In terms of “relating to design,” the standard influences the construction plans for the dwelling such that the building is designed to strike the required balance between buildings and open lot area. Regarding Table 9.2750, the maximum lot coverage requirement of 50 percent that applies in most of the R-1 zone and in R-2 is a reasonable standard because it is an effective way to ensure that the added density will not overtake residents’ need for yard/open space (and possibly parking). It is also reasonable because it helps ensure that the increased densities do not create unnecessary “livability” concerns that residential neighborhoods are becoming overcrowded. This standard is also reasonable because the City must carefully manage the creation of impermeable surface area in the City based on the effect it has on the stormwater system. Compliance with the City’s NPDES permit is extremely important and is dependent in substantial part on the City’s ability to limit the quantity of stormwater that leaves development sites and that must be conveyed and treated before entering the State’s waterways. The University area neighborhood specific standard at EC 9.2751(17)(c)3. requires that all roofed areas be included as part of the maximum 50 percent lot coverage, whereas the standard that applies to the rest of the city does not include roof eaves, or carports, porches, and balconies that are open at least 50 percent of their respective perimeter in the calculation. It is reasonable that accessory dwellings within the city-recognized boundaries of Amazon Neighbors, Fairmount Neighbors and South University Neighborhood Association (“the university area neighborhoods”) are subject to specialized area-specific standards. The standards contained in EC 9.2751(17)(c) were adopted as interim protection measures for the existing single-family neighborhoods surrounding the University of Oregon (Amazon, Fairmount and South University), which have in recent years experienced a substantial increase in unforeseen housing development associated with the skyrocketing demand for student housing in the proximity of the university. Residents of those neighborhoods supported this regulation as a way to help make the new development less impactful on the livability of the neighborhood. Livability is an important Statewide Planning Goal 14 concept, along with accommodating the need for compact development. As part of Envision Eugene, the city is committed to completing area planning for the university area neighborhoods, including consideration of specific design standards for housing to addresses impacts from proximity to the University of Oregon. The interim protection measures are intended to limit further negative impacts until the area planning process is completed. It is expected that these interim measures will be replaced by a more comprehensive set of development and design standards established as part of the area planning effort. Until such that occurs, it is reasonable to limit overall building coverage on a lot in those areas. Outdoor Living Area Table 9.2750 Residential Zone Development Standards (See EC 9.2751 Special Development Standards for Table 9.2750.) R-1 R-1.5 R-2 R-3 R-4 Outdoor Living Area (13) Minimum Total Open Space – -- 20% of dev. site 20% of dev. site 20% of dev. site September 16, 2019, Work Session – Item 1