HomeMy WebLinkAbout1997 - Recommended Plan of ActionCity of Sebastian
Riverfront Advisory Committee
Recommended Plan of Action
July, 1997
City of Sebastian
1225 MAIN STREET D SEBASTIAN, FLORIDA 32958
TELEPHONE (561) 589-5537 ❑ FAX (561) 589-2566
July 28, 1997
Sebastian City Council
City of Sebastian
1225 Main Street
Sebastian, Florida 32958
Dear City Council Members
^ We, the members of the Riverfront Advisory Committee, respectfully submit to you our
Recommended Plan of Action for the Sebastian riverfront area. This plan represents our work
during the past 15 months to include input from a variety of sources and resources that have
allowed us to make recommendations that we believe will well serve the City of Sebastian and its
citizens in the years ahead.
We believe that in our study, we have truly achieved a "balanced approach" that
considered the welfare of all the people of Sebastian regardless of station in life, personal interests.
or position in our community. This did not occur by accident. We Sought and received a great
deal of feedback and input from members of our community. We not only heard them but truly
listened to what they told us and incorporated their suggestions into the recommendations of our
committee. As a result, our recommendations may not be a grandiose as some people may have
hoped, but truly represent what most people believe Sebastian is - "A working hometown village,
not a gated community".
We also realized that there is more work that needs to be done and that our work only
represents the beginning. But we believe it is the right time to pass our report onto the City
Council, City staff, and other appropriate Commissions and Boards to integrate our work and
recommendations and get started with an action plan, Even during the relatively short period of
our study we have seen Sebastian continue to grow. It is important that this growth occurs with
vision and reasonable control in order to preserve the nature of the riverfront and the qualities that
caused many of us to come here in the first place.
^ City Council
Rivertront Advisory Committee
Page Two
In closing, we thank the City Council and all of the citizens of Sebastian for the high honor
and privilege of being selected to serve on the Riverfront Advisory Committee and to represent
"You - the people". We give special thanks to all of the people of Sebastian who faithfully
attended our meetings, encouraged us and even prayed for us.
Sincerely,
Riverfront Advisory Committee
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Riverfront Advisory Committee
Recommended Plan of Action
I. Introduction
II. Background Information on the Committee
III. Brief History and Background Information of the Riverfront area
IV. Summary of Committee's Activities
V. Statement of Principles
VI. Goals
VII. Action Items
1. "Old Florida Fishing Village" Theme
^ 2. Riverfront Performance Overlay District
3. Architectural Standards
4. Urban Design Standards
5. Landscape Ordinance
6. Sign Ordinance
7. Preserving the Riverfront Character Comprehensive Plan Amendment
6. Riverfront Mixed Use Zoning District
9. Historical Preservation
10. Parking
11. Intergovernmental Coordination
12. Preserving Waterfront Access
15. Maintain Citizen Involvement
,r^ VII. Additional Information
1.
Issues for Future Deliberations
Appendices
A. Riverfront Performance Overlay District
B. Preserving the Riverfront Character, Comprehensive Plan Amendment
C. RMU, Riverfront Mixed Use District, Zoning Amendment
Riverfront Advisory Committee
Recommended Plan of Action
1. Introduction
The history of Sebastian starts along the shoreline of the Indian River lagoon. The
first residents of the City used the river as an important source of food and a route of
transportation. Today, the City's waterfront distinguishes Sebastian from all other
communities in Florida. The two-mile shoreline is unique in its beauty and opportunities
for recreation and development. Sebastian is at a cross road, one path a final
opportunity to preserve its character through positive action, or the other path, to allow
Sebastian's Riverfront area to become a part of the nondescript, uncontrolled urban
,.� character that makes up most of the coast of Florida.
Two indisputable facts exist about the Riverfront area. The first is that the area is
going to develop. During the short life of the Riverfront Committee, several projects
have been proposed or have started construction in the Riverfront. Fortunately, all of
these projects have voluntarily conformed to the theme and architectural standards
recommended in the plan of action. The next development may not. Sebastian has
reached a population threshold which can support additional commercial development.
The population of the economic region in which Sebastian is located has grown to the
point where economic pressures will cause development of the City's riverfront. Change
will take place and this is the City's golden opportunity to set the standards of
development to preserve the character and result in a unique area, rarely found in
Florida.
Secondly, the City of Sebastian must determine what characteristics the City wishes
to preserve and adopt policies and regulations to protect those characteristics. Those
regulations must be implemented as soon as possible and they must be fair and
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uniformly applied. The credibility developed during this process must be protected by
the acceptance of the proposals in this Plan of Action. More importantly, the City's
desire to preserve the Riverfront will be achieved.
The Riverfront area of Sebastian, as determined by the City Council, is described
as that part of the City, east of the Florida East Coast Railroad (Map 1). The Riverfront
Advisory Committee fully supports and recommends that the area not be changed. The
Committee's objective in this recommendation is that, when one drives into the
Riverfront area of Sebastian, one will know that he or she is in Sebastian. In addition,
the Riverfront is to narrow to exclude any areas. US 1 is just as much part of the
Riverfront as is Indian River Drive.
This document is entitled a "Recommended Plan of Action". It is not intended to be
a fancy master plan which everyone praises and then sits on the shelf. This document
is a series of specific recommendations for action; specific ordinances, policies or
programs designed to preserve the character of the Riverfront area. The success of
the implementation of this plan can be measured by the number of the
recommendations adopted.
This document should also be viewed as the first step toward the long term
management of the City's Riverfront area. Additional areas of study have been
identified which the City should address in the future. The success of the
implementation of the goals described in this document should be evaluated annually.
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11. Background Information on the
Committee
In December, 1989, the City Council approved a recommendation to proceed with a
Waterfront District Study. In November, 1990, a Riverfront Study Commission was
appointed composed of seven members. That committee issued a report entitled "The
Community Vision for the Riverfront" in May, 1991.
In August, 1995, Ms. Carolyn Corum, a member of the City Council recommended
the formation of a Riverfront Task Force to develop architectural standards. The City
Council appointed five members in January, 1998. Later, two at large members and
two additional members were designated.
The Committee members are:
Mr. Tom Collins, Chairman
Mr. Don Smith, Vice -Chairman
Mr. Ed Moore (resigned 7/14/97)
Mr. Ken Chapin
Mr. Bruce Bennett
Ms. Carolyn Corum
Mr. Steve Wild
Mr. Tommy Thompson (alternate)
Mr. Stan Krulikowski (alternate) (resigned 4/4/97)
The committee met on Monday nights in the City Council chambers. The public was
invited and opportunities were provided for public input at every meeting.
III. Brief History and Backaround
Information of the Riverfront area
A. History
The Sebastian area has had a long and colorful history. In 1605, Captain
Alvaro Maxie, a Spanish soldier, made the first known record of the river
we now call the St. Sebastian River. Bernard Romans identified the St.
Sebastian River on a chart prepared in 1774. The 1860 federal census
listed Andrew P. Canova and Ed Marr as residents of the Sebastian area.
In 1865, August Park came by boat from Ft. Pierce. The 1880 census
listed five households in the area and by 1882 a post office was opened.
In 1903, the Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge was created. This
was the first federal bird refuge. The first graduating class from
Sebastian school was the Class of 1918. Sebastian was incorporated on
December 6, 1924. In 1929, the Bank of Sebastian failed and the City of
Sebastian was created on May 14, 1933.
The Riverfront area has always been important to the history of the City.
The waterfront was a place for steamboats to land. Commercial fishing
began in September, 1895. By the end of the year 103,890 pounds of fish
had been shipped by rail. The Pelican Island National Wildlife Refuge's
first warden was Paul Kroegel, a local resident. He was also the first
warden in the country. Most of the historical structures found in the City
are in the Riverfront area.
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B. Existing Land Use
The Riverfront area has a diverse mixture of land uses. This is a
result of the historical development patterns for the area. The uses
range from small single family homes to a large retail super center.
Map 2 is a generalized representation of the current land use
found in the Riverfront area. As shown on the map, the area is
dominated by commercial uses. There are pockets of single-family
residential uses throughout the Riverfront.
C. Current Zoning
Zoning in the Riverfront area today is a mixture of five commercial
zoning districts. The zoning is inconsistent with the
Comprehensive Plan. The zoning restrictions are often illogical.
For example, car sales are allowed in the General Commercial
Zoning District which is located along US 1. Boat sales are not
allowed there. Boat sales are only allowed in the zoning district
which is found primarily east of Indian River Drive. That area is
usually too narrow for any serious boat sales facilities. Much of the
existing single family residential use in the Riverfront area is
currently nonconforming use and cannot be expanded. As with the
future land use classifications, except for two zoning districts, the
zoning in the Riverfront area is not designed for that area.
The current zoning for the Riverfront area is a mixture of
commercial zoning districts — general commercial, commercial
limited, commercial, office and residential, general marine
commercial and marine commercial residential. There is a sixth
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101N district, public service, which includes most of the publicly owned
land.
Only the commercial office residential and marine commercial
residential districts allow residential uses. The general marine
commercial allows residential use only as a special use.
One of the results of the current zoning in the Riverfront area is
that some of the existing residential uses in the Riverfront are non-
conforming uses. As a non -conforming use, they can not be
expanded or enlarged.
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AV. C. Current Plans
The comprehensive plan for the City of Sebastian contains various
goals, objectives and policies which directly and indirectly effect
the Riverfront area. Map 3 is the current future land use map for
the Riverfront. Most of the area has general commercial,
commercial, office and residential, commercial waterfront, and
limited commercial future land use designation. The only area with
a residential designation is the area north of Davis Street between
North Central Avenue and Indian River Drive. The future land use
designation for that area is medium density residential which
allows up to eight units per acre.
The various policies which address the Riverfront are also found in
the comprehensive plan. These policies address issues such as
preserving scenic vistas, establishing a central core area for the
city in the Riverfront area, encouraging redevelopment and
renewal in the Riverfront area, and protecting the Indian River
Lagoon.
D. Existing Public Facilities
Transoortation. The Riverfront area is served by US 1 and CR -
512. US 1 is the major arterial running the length (north/south) of
the Riverfront area. US 1 is the gateway to the Riverfront area
from Brevard County and the Melbourne/Palm Bay area to the
north, and Vero Beach to the south. It is a four lane divided
highway with some on -street parking. The current long range
transportation plans of Indian River County include the six laning of
Oft� US1.
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CR -512 is the gateway to the Riverfront from the west. It provides
direct access to 1-95 west of the City.
The Riverfront area is served by the Community Coach, a bus
service provided by Indian River County. Several stops are
located in the area.
The Indian River is a major transportation facility. Located on the
eastern limits of the City is Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, which
provides a navigable waterway from Maine to South Florida. Three
miles east of the City is the Sebastian Inlet. This man-made inlet
provides direct access to the Atlantic Ocean.
Water and Sewer. The Riverfront area is provided with water and
sewer service by Indian River County Utilities. A water line and
sewer force main are located along Indian River Drive.
E. Historical Structures
The Sebastian Riverfront area has numerous historical structures.
These structures are an important element is establishing the
theme of the Riverfront area, as well as the look and feel of the
area. Preservation and restoration of those structures are an
important component of preserving the Riverfront area.
The Indian River County Historical Society maintains a list of the
historical structures found in the Riverfront area. The Society has
detailed background information on the structures. Map 4
identifies the location of the structures that are on the state
1' historical list.
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F. Deficiencies
The committee has identified some deficiencies within the Riverfront area
of which the major deficiency is parking. Due to the historical patterns of
development in the area, with numerous small lots platted before the
dominance of the automobile, parking is insufficient and difficult to
provide for in the redevelopment of the area. With the projected six
laning of US 1, the parking problem is expected to get worse.
This issue exists for various reasons. Historically, property has been
subdivided in the area primarily for residential purposes, and before
subdivision standards were adopted. Residential lots are not big enough
to handle off-street parking. Subsequent development, such as the
current alignment of US 1, has resulted in further reduction in the
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availability of land for parking. On -street parking is very limited. In
addition, the City has not aggressively provided public parking in the
Riverfront area.
The parking need is not just for the businesses located in the Riverfront
area, but also impacts the residents of the city who want to use the public
amenities of the area. The City needs to take a leadership role in
addressing this problem and look at innovative ways of meeting the need.
The recommendations this report can be used as a model in addressing
these deficiencies.
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IV. Summary of Committee's Activities
The Riverfront Committee met for the first time on May 1, 1996.
Since that time the committee has had a total of thirty-three
meetings. Most of the meetings occurred on Monday nights at 7:00
PM. There was a Saturday session with the local chapter of the
Architectural Institute of America. A joint meeting was held with the
Citizens Advisory Task Force for a "walk through" along the
riverfront to develop plans for the FDOT walkway.
All of the meetings were open to the public and public input was
actively solicited. For example, during the exercise to define the
architectural style of the Riverfront area, the public actively
participated in the evaluation of eighty slides representing different
buildings and architectural styles. The committee feels that the
tremendous amount of public input received during this process
adds to the credibility of this report. The recommendations
contained in this report is the result of the consensus which was
built with the committee members and the public. The committee
strongly feels that continued public input, in the future, is essential
for the success of the implementation of these recommendations
The committee addressed numerous issues during their
deliberations, these included: the theme for the Riverfront area,
land use, landscape standards, sign standards, architectural
standards, such as roofs, height, color and construction materials,
urban code, parking, the FDOT sidewalk along Indian River Drive,
1 ^ the Cav Corp property, and street lighting.
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The committee wishes to emphasize that the work on implementing
a plan for the Riverfront area is not completed, it has only started.
This should be a priority of the City leadership in the future. The
recommendations of this report must be implemented as soon as
possible in order to protect the Riverfront. The progress of
implementation should be monitored on a regular basis with an
annual report as to the success of the implementation. Items of
concern should include: were the recommendations implemented?
If not, why not? If they were, how successful were they in
protecting the character of the Riverfront? How can the
recommendations be improved?
Successful businesses constantly evaluate themselves to
10-Sdetermine if they have meet their goals and how can they improve
productivity and customer satisfaction. The City should do the
same for the Riverfront to prevent this from becoming another
report that sits and gathers dust.
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V. Statement of Principles
The City of Sebastian's Riverfront Committee adopted a set of principles to
ensure that all of the citizens of Sebastian are considered in developing the
unique and valuable resources of the Riverfront area for the future. The
Committee recommends that the City adopt these principles in guiding future
decisions in the Riverfront area.
The principles are:
Putting out a vision.
The Committee recommends the establishment of a theme of the
Riverfront area. All other recommendations from the Committee
will compliment this theme.
A balanced approach. I
The Committee recommends that the City take a balanced
approach. This includes:
a. considering the needs of all the citizens of Sebastian —
youth, seniors, residents, businessmen, sportsmen, etc.;
b. developing a mixture of uses and a variety of opportunities
for recreational, residential and commercial uses;
c. encouraging progress while protecting property rights;
d. protecting the environment and fostering use.
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Maximizing the use of what we already have.
The Committee recommends that the City protect, restore and
enhance the existing assets, including historical structures, found
in the Riverfront area. It is the intention of the Committee to
preserve those things that brought us to Sebastian.
Maximize the use of voluntary incentives.
The Committee recommends that the City limits the use of
regulations to what is required in the best interests of the citizens
of Sebastian.
Use public investment in support of the vision.
The Committee recommends that public projects such as
transportation, park and recreation improvements, and building
construction and renovation should help foster the vision for the
Riverfront area.
Preserve riverfront access.
The Committee recommends that river and ocean access is a
treasure to be enjoyed by all of the citizens of Sebastian.
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,"° I Flexibility in implementation.
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The committee recommends that some of the recommendations will
be done quickly and at a low cost. Some will be realized slowly,
over time.
Encourage citizen involvement.
The Committee provided opportunities for public input. The
Committee recommends that such opportunities be provided in the
future for public input and discussion. Public involvement is
essential to implement the other principles.
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V1. Goals
It has been said "if you don't know where you want to go, any plan will get you
there." It is important to clearly state what your goals are. The residents of
Sebastian and the property owners and businesses in the Riverfront area must
clearly understand what it is that the City is trying to achieve in the Riverfront
area.
The principles describe where the City is coming from, the foundation of this
study. The following goals describe where the City is trying to go. The
recommended actions identified later in this Plan of Action describe how the
City can achieve these goals.
Goal 1. Preserve and protect the character of the
Riverfront area of the City of Sebastian,
The character of the Riverfront area is a predominate feature of the
City of Sebastian. Most out of town visitors have seen the
riverfront area even if only as they drive through on US 1. The
Riverfront area is also one of the factors that have attracted people
to live in Sebastian.
The character of the Riverfront area — unobstructed views of the
Indian River, large oak trees and cabbage palms, short buildings,
residential uses, commercial establishments and fish markets — are
factors that the City wants to preserve. The City must take positive
action to preserve all of those characteristics.
It is the intent of this goal to maintain, foster and preserve the small
1001� village" quality of life in the Riverfront; to maintain, foster and
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10% preserve a sense of "community". Some aspects of this philosophy
are to preserve the historical buildings of the area, to establish a
common architectural theme, while avoiding an artificial look, and
to encourage existing properties to be improved or enhanced
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following this theme.
Goal2. Guide the development of the Riverfront area
of the City of Sebastian for the enjoyment
and benefit of all of the residents of
Sebastian
The purpose of guiding the development of the Riverfront area is to
preserve its character for all of the residents of Sebastian and our
out-of-town guests.
The City has the responsibility to implement programs to manage
the development. This can be accomplished through amendments
to the Land Development Code and the Comprehensive Plan. It
can also be accomplished by ensuring that City programs — public
works, parks and recreation, landscaping, signs, etc. — preserve
the Riverfront area character.
Goal3. Foster economic development within the
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Riverfront area, 11
Preservation of the Riverfront area character will require economic
investment by both the public and private sector. The efforts for
redevelopment and preservation must provide opportunities for
investments. There must be incentives for such investment to be
made, and it must make good sense financially.
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The City's regulations must preserve the character of the Riverfront
area, but must be flexible enough to address unique, individual
situations that exist there. Regulations should include a
'.grandfather" provision and provide for phased implementation.
The City's investments in the Riverfront area must further the goals
the City has for the Riverfront area.
Goal 4, Provide vision and leadership by the City ot�
Sebastian.
The success of any program is dependent on sound leadership
and leadership with a vision. The City, through cooperative efforts
with the City's residents, the Riverfront area property owners and
the businesses in the Riverfront area, must provide that leadership.
The City must take positive action in it's programs, plans and
regulations to provide that leadership.
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VII. Action Items
This document is an "action" document. This is not a plan of nice, universally
accepted descriptions of what the Riverfront might be or will be some time in the
future. It is a plan of action. A plan of specific actions recommended to be taken
to implement the principles and goals for the Sebastian's Riverfront area.
RECOMMENDATION #1: "OLD FLORIDA FISHING VILLAGE" THEME
The Riverfront Advisory Committee recommended that the City
adopt an "Old Florida Fishing Village" theme for the Riverfront
area. The intent of this theme is to preserve the historical
character of the Riverfront and to establish a description of how the
Riverfront will look in the future.
The "Old Florida Fishing Village" theme should be viewed as a
uniquely Sebastian theme. You can not take Key West, or Punta
Gorda, or Cedar Key and apply them to Sebastian. The rustic look
and feel of the "Old Florida Fishing Village' is articulated in the
recommendations of this report. All of the components - land use,
architectural, urban space, landscaping, signs — contribute to the
overall theme and enhance the present uses. One component can
not create a theme, but if one of the recommendations is not
implemented, the theme may not be achieved.
RECOMMENDATION #2: RIVERFRONT PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICT
The Riverfront Committee recommends that the City establish a
Riverfront Performance Overlay District in the Land Development (33,
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r. Code. The purpose of this Performance Overlay district is to
establish an area within the City where specific standards will be
implemented. These standards are one of the tools to achieve the
desired "Old Florida Fishing Village" theme.
The Performance Overlay district is a tool that is commonly used in
land development regulations. Some may consider it a "super
zoning district". It establishes an area where additional standards
are implemented. The Sebastian Riverfront area is unique, even to
the rest of Sebastian. The City's land development regulations
should include principles for that area separate from the rest of the
land development regulations. The Performance Overlay district
allows that.
A proposed ordinance is included in Appendix A.
RECOMMENDATION #3: ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS
The Riverfront Advisory Committee recommends that the City
amend the City's Land Development Code to include Architectural
Standards for development and redevelopment in the Riverfront
area. Appendix A is a proposed ordinance which would implement
this recommendation.
These standards are intended to preserve the "Old Florida Fishing
Village" character of the Riverfront. These standards were
developed through an interactive, public participation process.
Eighty slides of various architectural styles, including styles found
in the Riverfront area, in other waterfront communities, and in other
locations were shown to the Advisory Committee and the public.
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All participants were asked to indicate if each slide represents the
"Old Florida Fishing Village" and using just a few words, why or
why not.
The responses of the participants were summarized and the
common factors identified. The "Old Florida Fishing Village" is
described to be a small structure, with a metal, sloped roof, wood
siding, with a porch or balcony, and often with a fence. The
Victorian style building found in Key West or Cape May, New
Jersey, are too elaborate. The "Old Florida Fishing Village" does
not have a lot of gingerbread. As one participant described "the
intent is for fishermen's homes, not sea captain homes".
It is important to note that the Riverfront Advisory Committee is
recommending that the architectural standards be applied only to
new construction or when there is substantial renovation of an
existing structure. The Committee is recommending that existing
structures not be required to come into compliance in a fixed
period of time.
RECOMMENDATION #4: URBAN DESIGN STANDARDS
The Riverfront Advisory Committee recommends that the City's
Land Development Code be amended to include urban design
standards for the Riverfront area. The Committee worked with the
local chapter of the American Institute of Architects. One of their
recommendations was that the City should adopt design standards
for the Riverfront area but variations should be provided as one
continuous design along the Riverfront area would become
10-1 monotonous, boring and unattractive.
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The Committee recommends that the Urban Design Standards be
based on six types. It is the intent that these standards will
preserve and protect the character of the neighborhoods presently
found in the Riverfront area (map 5). The six types are:
TYPE I
Commercial
TYPE II
Low intensity residential/commercial;
TYPE III
Resort;
TYPE IV
Downtown,
TYPE V
Medium intensity residential/commercial;
TYPE VI
Waterfront;
Map S. Urban Design Standards Areas
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,.m� Each type reflects a different character. For example, type I
reflects the nature of the north end of US 1 in the Riverfront area,
with the existing commercial activities. Type II is intended to
enhance and protect the residential, low intensity look and feel
along North Central Avenue.
The Urban Design Standards fulfill several of the principals
adopted by the Committee. In addition to providing a vision for the
Riverfront area, the standards will protect what we already have,
and provide flexibility. The recommended ordinance to implement
the urban code is in Appendix A.
RECOMMENDATION #5: LANDSCAPE ORDINANCE
The Riverfront Committee recommends that the City amend the
100-1 Land Development Code to provide for additional landscape
requirements in the Riverfront area. The proposed landscape
requirements within the Riverfront area are additional to the
requirements for the rest of the City. It is the intent of the
Committee that landscaping play an important role in preserving
the character of the Riverfront area. Landscaping can be used to
effectively reduce the apparent size or mass of a building and allow
larger buildings to blend in with the existing building size.
The Committee is not recommending that the landscape
requirements be applied retroactively. The requirements should be
imposed only for new construction or substantial renovation.
The intent of the landscape ordinance is to provide for a higher
standard of landscaping in the Riverfront area. While imposing a
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s-� higher standard, it also provides for more flexibility. It is also
recommended that the City consider the establishment of a
Riverfront Tree Trust. Some sites for various reasons can not
properly handle the required number of trees. The tree trust would
allow property owners in the Riverfront to make a financial
contribution to the trust. The trust would then be utilized by the
City to plant trees on public lands and rights-of-way to help
beautify the Riverfront area.
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The proposed Riverfront area landscape standards are included in
Appendix A.
RECOMMENDATION #6: SIGN ORDINANCE
The Riverfront Committee recommends the inclusion of sign
standards for the Riverfront area in the Land Development Code.
The purpose of the sign ordinance is to support the "Old Florida
Fishing Village' theme, to avoid visual clutter, and to provided for a
uniform style of signage in the Riverfront area. The major result of
the implementation of the recommendations is the use of
monument signs, rather than tall, free standing signs. The existing
City landscape requirements conflict with many of the signs found
in the Riverfront area. As the trees in the landscaping mature, the
signs are blocked and are impossible to read. The use of
monument signs, a maximum of ten feet high, will allow businesses
to identify themselves, and at the same time be visible below the
trees.
It is the intent of the committee to allow nonconforming signs,
permitted before the adoption of the ordinance implementing these
recommendations, to continue until they are no longer used, the
business is sold and the sign changes or become hazardous, but
not to encourage their survival. The ordinance proposed for the
sign regulations is found in Appendix A.
RECOMMENDATION #7: PRESERVING THE RIVERFRONT CHARACTER
COMPREHENSIVE PLAN AMENDMENT
The future land use map of the City Comprehensive Plan identifies
seven different land use classifications in the Riverfront area. Only
one of the classifications is directly related to the Riverfront area.
The current future land use map does not address the Riverfront
area as a whole. It does not provide a comprehensive, unified
approached to managing the Riverfront area.
The Committee has carefully considered the Riverfront area and
finds that the entire area east of the Florida East Coast Railroad
must be considered as one area. The Riverfront area, particularly
from just north of Main Street to the southern city limits, is too
narrow to try to divide it into separate areas. The US 1 corridor is
just as important to the preservation of the character of the
Riverfront as is Indian River Drive. The committee strongly
recommends that the City Council manage the entire area as one.
The Riverfront Advisory Committee, therefore, recommends that
the Comprehensive Plan be amended, in the current five-year
update to include a single future land use designation for the
10-1 Riverfront area. It is recommended that the designation be entitled
29 61
n "Riverfront Mixed Use". The classification would encourage
residential uses as well as compatible commercial uses. The
classification should provide guidance on protecting the existing
character and uses in the Riverfront area. The purpose of this
single classification is to provide a single, coordinated and
comprehensive view of the Riverfront area.
The recommendation also includes incorporating the theme,
preserving waterfront access, and preserving the existing assets in
the Riverfront. Appendix B contains the proposed language for the
recommended Comprehensive Plan Amendment.
RECOMMENDATION #8: RIVERFRONT MIXED USE ZONING DISTRICT
The Riverfront Advisory Committee recommends that the City
establish a new zoning district — the Riverfront Mixed Use District
(RMU). A copy of the proposed zoning district is found in Appendix
C. This district would make residential use a permitted use
throughout the area. The committee's recommendation is not to
encourage the location of commercial and residential uses in the
same building. A few uses that are currently allowed would be
eliminated. These include used car sales, pawn shops, and adult
entertainment. Some uses would require US 1 frontage such as
gas stations and drive -up restaurants.
The purpose of the new zoning district is to provide a uniform
zoning regulation for the Riverfront area and to encourage
residential uses in the Riverfront area. Existing uses should be
protected by performance standards.
30 00
Ia
With the establishment of the RMU zoning district, the General
Marine Commercial and the Marine Commercial and Residential
zoning districts are no longer necessary. The uses permitted by
those districts are included in the proposed RMU district. The
committee recommends that those districts be abolished.
RECOMMENDATION #9: HISTORICAL PRESERVATION
The Riverfront area contains numerous historical structures. The
Archie Smith Fish House is on the list of National Historical Places.
Several other houses are also on the state list. These buildings
are important to the Riverfront's history and help to establish the
character of the Riverfront area.
The committee recommends that the City take an active role in the
protection and preservation of these structures. The Committee
recommends that the City include in the Comprehensive Plan an
optional Historic Preservation Element. It is also recommended
that in the future the City pursue grants to assist in the
preservation of these structures.
RECOMMENDATION #10: PARKING
The committee recommends that the City review the Land
Development Code regulation concerning off-street parking
requirements. These should be reviewed for reasonableness, and
not a hindrance to development or redevelopment of existing
properties.
31 &
1 - The Committee recommends that the City develop a plan for public
parking. This may be on existing city owned property, existing
rights-of-way, or lands to be purchased by the city. For example,
the City owns a small parcel of land on North Central Avenue, west
of US 1 and north of Main Street. North Central in not a through
street in that area. If angle parking was developed at that parcel,
some "public' parking would be developed right in the center of the
proposed "downtown" area of the City.
In order to pay for some of the public parking, the committee
recommends that the City consider the adoption of a "Riverfront
Parking Trust". The concept is that when a Riverfront property
owner of an existing structure is unable to meet all of the off-street
parking requirements on site, the property owner would be required
to meet a minimum amount of parking on site and then the owner
would be permitted to contribute an amount of money to the trust.
The City in turn would use the money from this trust to provide for
"public" parking. The City would benefit in two ways: property that
would not be redeveloped would be improved, property values
would increase and tax revenue would increase, and secondly, the
"public" parking would be paid for by the "Riverfront Parking Trust"
and not the general budget.
The committee also recommends that the City develop
private/public partnerships in addressing in the parking issue. One
concept concerns the property west of US 1, between Main Street
and Martin Avenue. The property owners would grant an
easement for the City to construct a driveway along the west side
of these properties. When the property is developed, the property
owner would put parking in on both sides of the drive. The parking
32
Oft, on the west side, between the drive and the railroad would be
available to the public. The parking on the east side would be for
the businesses. This would provide more convenient access for
the businesses in that area, reduce the number of curb cuts on US
1, assist in the redevelopment of that area, and increase the
amount of public parking available.
RECOMMENDATION #11: INTERGOVERNMENTAL COORDINATION
The City of Sebastian does not have the taxbase to construct many
of the important improvements needed in the Riverfront area.
There are several other agencies which can assist in achieving the
overall goals for the Riverfront area. The Committee recommends
that the City continue a very proactive approach to working with
these agencies. The City's staff should maintain a list of proposed
projects, identify funding opportunities, and establish close working
relationships with these agencies. The following is a list of several
of the agencies which can play a role in preserving the Riverfront
area.
St. Johns River Water Manaqement District (SJRWMD). The
SJRWMD is the regional agency responsible for the protection of
the area water resources. Their jurisdiction includes the Indian
River. They regulate the use of water as well as stormwater
management and flood control. The City currently has two projects
with the District — the enhancements at Riverview park and
stormwater management improvements on Main Street.
The City should continue to pursue such projects in the future.
There is a particular need to retrofit the existing stormwater
33 0
AON management system found in the Riverfront. Most of it was
designed and constructed before there was an understanding that
the solution to pollution is not dilution. The protection of the Indian
River will require improvements to the area's stormwater
management system.
Deoartment of Environmental Protection (DEPT. The DEP is the
state agency responsible for environmental protection and the
management of state lands. Since most of the land east of the
mean high water line of the Indian River is state owned land, DEP
plays a major role in the preservation of the Riverfront and the
Indian River.
The Department takes what is known as an "Ecosystem
Management" approach to regulations and land management.
Simply stated, this approach looks at the area in the whole, not on
a project by project basis or a lot by lot basis. The approach taken
by the Riverfront Advisory Committee has been very similar. The
area has been reviewed as a whole, not on a parcel by parcel
basis. This results in recommendations that are based on needs of
the entire area, not the wishes of an individual, or property owner.
The DEP has various grants that can be utilized to preserve the
Riverfront area and enhance access to the waterfront. One of
these grants is the FERDAP grant. This is a grant for recreation
development.
The Committee recommends that the City maintain a close liaison
with the DEP to ensure that their programs and regulations are
implemented to complement the "Old Florida Fishing Village"
theme. The Department also has various grant programs that can
be used to implement the recommendations of this plan of action.
Deoartment of Communitv Affairs (DCA). The DCA is the state
land planning agency. The City's comprehensive plan is reviewed
by DCA. It is recommended that the City include the
recommendation concerning the comprehensive plan in the update
of the comprehensive plan currently underdevelopment. The City
should also identify any grants which may be available through the
DCA which can be used to enhance the Riverfront.
Florida Inland Navigation District IFIND). The Florida Inland
Navigation District is a special district created to maintain the
Intracoastal Waterway. The district imposes an ad valorem tax on
properties in the city for that purpose. The Intracoastal Waterway is
a major transportation corridor immediately east of the city. The
waterway is an important resource to the boating community. The
District also has grants for the development and enhancement of
navigation projects.
It is recommended that the city establish a working relationship
with the Florida Inland Navigation District to ensure that the
intracoastal waterway continues to provide access to the city. The
city should also pursue grants from FIND to enhance navigation in
the city.
Florida Deoartment of State. The Florida Department of State
has, among their responsibilities, historic preservation. The
Department maintains lists of historically important sites and
rMN structures. The Department also manages several grant programs
35
SFS
1 - for historical preservation. The Committee recommends that the
City identify grants that may be used in the preservation and
restoration of historically significant buildings in the City.
Indian River Countv. Indian River County is responsible for utility
service in the Riverfront area. The county staffs the Metropolitan
Planning Organization, which establishes priority for expenditures
of transportation related projects. These are just two of several
areas in which the county can influence activities in the Riverfront
area. It is recommended that the City maintain coordination with
Indian River County to ensure that their activities promote the
recommendations of this Plan of Action.
Florida Department of Transportation (FDOT). Within the
^ Riverfront area, the FDOT plays a major role in public investment
effecting the character of the Riverfront area. FDOT projects will
impact the quality of the Riverfront area. US 1 is an FDOT
maintained highway. Drainage improvements along US 1 should be
designed to protect and enhance the water quality of the Indian
River. Future plans for widening US 1 to six lanes should be
carefully evaluated to determine the impact on the Riverfront area.
One example of how an FDOT project can be utilized to enhance
the Riverfront area is the walkway east of Indian River Drive. This
project, funded by federal enhancement funds, will provide a safe
walkway linking the entire waterfront. Visual access of the Indian
River will be enhanced by this project. In the future, the City should
cooperate with FDOT on similar projects.
36 S
.oft�
RECOMMENDATION#12: PRESERVING WATERFRONT ACCESS
It is recommended that access to the Riverfront be maintained in
the following manner to prevent unnecessary blockage of the view
of the river:
Prohibit the filling of any wetlands along the waterfront. The
filling of wetlands may result in the construction of structures
which would block the view of the waterfront.
2. Strictly enforce building setback requirements. Currently the
setbacks are not uniform. In the future, all building setbacks
along the waterfront, east of Indian River Drive, should be
uniform with the current requirements of the Public Service
zoning district, that is a 30 foot front setback and a 25 foot
rear setback. Waterfront accessory structures such as
docks and piers and other marine related activities should
be allowed in the setbacks.
3. In the case of contiguous property separated only by Indian
River Drive, open space requirements should be achieved
by locating the required open space east of Indian River
Drive. The density allowed for the entire parcel should be
allowed to be used on the parcel on the west side of Indian
River Drive. A conservation or scenic easement should be
obtain to ensure that the land east of Indian River Drive is
maintained as open space into the future.
37 67
4. If the City acquires land along the waterfront, the priority for
acquisition should be:
A. Parcels of land that are donated to the City.
B. Parcels of land that exceed 75 feet in depth (right-of-
way to edge of wetlands or high water mark).
C. Parcels of land that are adjacent to City owned
property.
D. Parcels of land that are of historical significance or
^ environmental significance.
,aft,
The City should pursue additional funding sources for land
acquisition to maximize the purchase value of the City's
dollars when it is in the City's interest.
5. The City should encourage the removal of exotic vegetation
such as Brazilian Peppers and Australian Pines.
61, The City should discourage the use of stockade fences east
of Indian River Drive.
The Committee recommends that the City amend the
comprehensive plan and land development code to implement
these recommendations.
rn
0 +
RECOMMENDATION #13: MAINTAIN CITIZEN INVOLVEMENT
The Committee recommends that the City maintain an advisory
committee that meets quarterly, or as needed, to maintain public
input on matters affecting the Riverfront area.
As indicated in the introduction of this document, this is a Plan of
Action. It outlines the first steps toward preserving the Riverfront
area. Several areas requiring additional review and
recommendations have been identified. The success of the work
accomplished to date is the result of a committee made up of
volunteers and active public participation. It is recommended that
the same format be continued.
The current Committee has been created by various actions of the
City Council. There has not been a formal action in the form of a
resolution or ordinance to create the Committee. It is
recommended that a continuing Committee be formally
established. It is further recommended that the Committee be
charged with the preparation of an annual report on the success of
achieving the above described goals. The Committee should also
perform other studies as requested by the City Council.
39
y5
..
VIII. Additional Information
The Committee's work is the first step of preserving the Riverfront area. The
recommendations of the committee should be implemented as quickly as
possible in order to protect the Riverfront. There were several issues that
require further study and the development of recommendations for the City
Council to consider. One area is the use of public property in the Riverfront
area. The City owns several pieces of property in the Riverfront. It is
recommended that the City develop a comprehensive plan for the use of each of
these parcels.
Water and sewer service are provided on a limited basis in the Riverfront. Some
property owners have indicated that the method of the expansion of the current
AM, system has hindered redevelopment of the area. It is recommended that a
comprehensive plan be developed to ensure that efficient service of water and
sewer is available to all parcels in the Riverfront.
40
Appendix A.
DIVISION VI. PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICTS
ARTICLE IXX
Sec. 20A-19.1 RIVERFRONT DISTRICT
Sec. 20A-19.1.1 PURPOSE AND INTENT
.A. Purpose: The portion of the City of Sebastian along the Indian River has a
unique history, style, and look which the city seeks to preserve. The
architectural style for the Riverfront is that of an "Old Florida Fishing Village."
The following sections establish architectural design criteria, urban design
criteria, sign standards and landscape standards for the Riverfront area. The
purpose of this article is to require that all development in the Riverfront District,
as stated herein, implement and maintain the "Old Florida Fishing Village"
setting.
The requirements of this Performance Overlay district are additional to the
regulations found elsewhere in this Land Development Code. In addition to the
site plan (Article X), landscape (Division III), and sign requirements (Division IV),
projects within the Riverfront District shall comply with these additional
regulations.
AWA B. Intent: This article is intended to promote imagination, innovation, and variety,
by focusing on design principles and encouraging creative solutions which
accomplish the following:
1. Foster creative approaches which emulate an "Old Florida Fishing
Village" character through use of quality design, building materials,
signs and landscaping.
2. Sustain the comfort, health, tranquillity, and contentment of residents
with a desirable environment.
3. Minimize incompatible surroundings and visual clutter which prevent
orderly community development and reduce community property values.
4. Encourage designs that maintain the community's low density and low
rise character.
5. Carefully balance the man-made system with the natural environment, in
a way which preserves, protects, and conserves the natural
environment.
C. Organization: Sec. 20A-19.1. is divided into the following eight sections:
19.1.1. Purpose and Intent
^y 19.1.2. Establish a Riverfront Performance Overlay District
19.1.3. Definitions
Appendix A. Pagel
19.1.4.
Administration, Permits, Procedures, Waivers, and
Violations and Remedies
19.1.5.
Riverfront District Architectural Codes
19.1.6.
Riverfront District Urban Code
19.1.7.
Riverfront District Landscape Code
19.1.8.
Riverfront District Sign Regulations
Sec. 20A-19.1.2
RIVERFRONT PERFORMANCE OVERLAY DISTRICT
A. Established: A special Performance Overlay district is hereby established to be
known as the Riverfront District.
B. Boundaries: The Riverfront District shall include that portion of the City of
Sebastian located east of the Florida East Coast Railroad to and including the
Indian River, north to the city limits located approximately at the south section
line of section 6, township 315, range 39E.
C. Riverfront District Reouirements: All development in the Riverfront District shall
comply with the requirements of this article. The standards and requirements set
forth at below shall apply to new development, to substantial renovation,
conversion in use from residential to commercial, and to building exterior
refinishing.
D. Effective date: The provisions of 20A-19.1 shall apply to all development within
the Riverfront District for which a complete application for site plan review,
pursuant to Article X of this code, has not been filed with the Community
Development Department on or before _, 1997.
Sec. 20A-1 9.1.3. DEFINITIONS
I. "Arcade" means a covered walkway located entirely on private property
along the street facade of a building which is open to the adjacent street
between columns which may be either weight-bearing or cosmetic.
Interior building space may be constructed above an arcade. An arcade
shall have a minimum clear height of twelve feet from the lowest point of
the ceiling and a minimum clear width of ten feet.
2. "Architectural Feature" means a structural or cosmetic feature of a
building or structure, including but not limited to chimneys, bay windows,
cornices, coping, parapets, porches, steps, staircases, screened utilities,
and tower structures of less than 215 square feet in area and a height of
not more than thirty-five feet. Architectural Features may encroach the
lesser of five feet or 60% of the width of a Setback. All rooftop utilities
and facilities such as air conditioning units shall be screened so as to not
be visible from public right-of-way.
3. "Balcony" means a structural platform surrounded by a railing or other
.-. retaining device which projects from the street facade of a building at an
elevated floor without direct support from the ground. On comer lots a
Appendix A. Page 2
Appendix A. Page 3
balcony may extend along two street facades, but it does not have to be
continuous. A balcony may extend over public sidewalk or right-of-way
but may not be designed or used as a means of building ingress or
egress above public right-of-way. A balcony shall have a minimum clear
height of twelve feet at ground level above sidewalks and a minimum
depth of three feet.
4.
"Depth" means a lineal dimension of a site or building measured on a
line perpendicular to the line of the street frontage.
5.
"Facade" means any face of a building (including the visible portion of
roof) which is visible from a roadway. For calculation purposes only, it
will be the building as seen in elevations.
6.
"Historic Building" means a building or structure of architectural,
historical, cultural or historic planning significance that has been
designated as such by a local, state or federal authority.
7.
"Low sloped roof' shall be defined as a roof with a slope less than 5:12
(rise:run). Flat roofs are included in this term and classification.
8.
"New Development" means the construction of a building or structure on
unimproved real property.
9.
"Outbuilding" means a secondary ancillary building, other than a storage
shed, located in the rear yard of the principal building. Outbuildings shall
have a maximum building footprint of 500 square feet and maximum
gross floor Area of 1,000 square feet. Outbuildings have a maximum
height of twenty feet. An outbuilding may have an unenclosed porch of
up to 20% of the floor area of the outbuilding, which shall not count as
part of the building footprint or gross floor area.
10.
"Parapet Wall" means a wall which serves as a guard at the edge of a
Balcony or roof.
11.
"Porch" means an open-air roofed structure surrounded by a railing or
other retaining device which is located along the facade of a building at
any level. A porch shall include columns which support its roof and floor.
A porch shall have a minimum depth of four feet.
12.
"Principal Building" means a building in which the principal use of the
property is located, on the property on which such building is located.
13.
"Renovation" means work which changes or modifies the original size,
location, materials or exterior finish of the components of a building. The
change may include expansion or upgrading of a building.
14.
"Storage Shed" means a structure which has a maximum building
footprint of 150 square feet and a maximum height of ten feet.
Appendix A. Page 3
Apok
15. "Street Facade" means that facade of a building which is nearest an
adjacent street.
16. "Substantial Renovation" means a development which includes:
improvements to existing buildings and site improvements
consisting of any combination of repairs, reconstruction and
alteration to a building or site the cumulative costs of which,
according to the latest edition of the Marshall and Swift Cost
Estimator, equal or exceed 50% of the current Indian River
County assessed value of the buildings on the site and site
improvements, not including the assessed value of the land, prior
to improvement; or
b. additions to existing buildings or structures totaling 50% or more
of the gross Floor area of all existing buildings or structures on the
site inclusive of any additions made during the previous three
years.
17. "Visible roof structure" means a partial or perimeter roof (used in
conjunction with a low sloped roof) that gives the appearance of having
a true gable, hip, shed, or mansard roof. A parapet wall is not a visible
roof structure.
18. "Vista" means a visual corridor at ground level not obstructed by
buildings, structures or portions thereof, which extends from public right-
of-way to the waters of the Indian River. A vista shall be a minimum of
ten feet in width and eight feet in height.
19. "Width" means a lineal dimension of a site or building measured on a
line parallel to the line of the street frontage.
Sec. 20A-19.1.4. ADMINISTRATION, PERMITS PROCEDURES. WAVIERS. AND
VIOLATIONS AND REMEDIES
A. Administration: The provisions of this Riverfront District shall be administered
and enforced by the Community Development Director, whose duties shall
include receiving and reviewing building permits and other land development
permit applications, assisting applicants in procedures required hereunder,
making decisions regarding the application of this Riverfront District to particular
properties, inspecting premises, and issuing permits and certificates of
occupancy. Nothing in this Riverfront District is intended to conflict with the
building codes of the City.
B. Permits: No building or other land development permit shall be issued by the
Community Development Director unless all provisions of this Riverfront District
have been met.
Appendix A. Page 4
C. Procedures for application and approval:
Application
a. Preliminary development review. A preliminary design review
may be requested by the applicant. Such a review may be filed
with the Community Development Department and include a
conceptual site plan and building elevations. A non-binding
preliminary written response shall be provided by the Community
Development Director.
b. Pre -application conference. Before beginning any new
development, substantial renovation, or conversion from
residential on private or public land, a pre -application conference
with the Community Development Department may be convened
at the request of the applicant to determine the applicability of
this Riverfront District. Pre -application conferences are
mandatory for all site plans, approved site plan modifications,
planned unit developments, and subdivision plats in the
Riverfront District. The pre -application conference is optional for
the construction or renovation of a single family residence.
C. Application. After the pre -application conference, an application
for development shall be submitted to the Community
^ Development Department in accordance with this Land
Development Code. In addition to the requirements of the
appropriate sections of this Code, a completed application for
development in the Riverfront District shall include a general
vicinity or location map, legal description, map of vegetative
cover, proposed development activities and design, building
plans, front, rear, and side architectural elevations, floor
elevations, documentation related to streets, parking, and
loading; tree removal and protection, landscaping, signs, exterior
color choices. and any other documentation as required by the
Community Development Director which demonstrate compliance
with this Riverfront District.
2. Review. All other applications for development approval shall be
reviewed by the Community Development Director and the appropriate
staff for compliance with the provisions of this Riverfront District and the
appropriate provisions of the Land Development Code.
3. Approval. All applications shall be approved as provided for in the
appropriate sections of the Land Development Code.
D. Waivers: The City Council may waive any of the provisions of this Article if the
City Council finds that the strict interpretation of the requirements of this article
places an inordinate burden on the property owner as defined by Florida
Statutes.
Appendix A. Page 5
E.
Violations and remedies: It shall be unlawful and a violation of this Land
Development Code for any person to construct, renovate or remodel a building
within the Rivertront District except in compliance with the provisions of this
Riverfront District. A violation of this Rivertront District shall be deemed a
zoning violation. In such event the Community Development Director may
initiate code enforcement proceedings to compel compliance. The City Council
may initiate appropriate civil proceedings including but not limited to a
declaratory action, injunction action and mandamus action to compel
compliance.
Sec.
20A-19.1.5 RIVERFRONT DISTRICT ARCHITECTURAL CODES
A.
Established: Architectural standards for all new or substantially renovated
buildings are hereby established. Existing building are not required to meet the
requirements of this section unless they are substantially renovated.
Sec.
20A-19.1.5.1 GENERAL
A.
Scope: The design of all structures in the Rivertront District shall comply with
the requirements of this code. This pertains to any building, group of buildings,
site development, alterations affecting building's exterior, parking lots, and
vehicular use areas. Compliance with the provisions in this code shall be
reviewed by the Community Development Department, Planning and Zoning
Commission and the City Council as appropriate. Precedence shall not be set
10-41
by any project or variances approved by the Community Development
Department, Planning and Zoning Commission, City Council, or the Board of
Adjustment
B.
Rivertront District Review Requirements:
1. A site plan as required by Article X. In addition to the requirements of
Article X, the site plan shall be in compliance with the urban design
requirements of Section 20A-19.6. The site plan shall locate any
"visually offensive elements" as described in the screening device
section.
2. A landscape plan as required by Section 20A-10.3. In addition to the
requirements of Sec. 20A-10.3. the landscape plan shall be in
compliance with the Rivertront District landscape requirements described
in Section 20A-19.7.
3. In addition to normal site plan review submittal requirements, the
following signed and sealed drawings are to be submitted to the
Community Development Department at the time of site plan review:
a. Tree Survey: Must indicate location of all protected trees as
defined in Article XIV. Locate within one foot tolerance and
^
identify species of each tree.
Appendix A. Page 6
b.
Roof Plan: Must indicate any "visually offensive elements" (as
described in Screening Device section) and descriptions of
screening devices.
C.
Buildina Elevations: Must include all exterior building elevations,
including all items affecting the appearance of the building. This
is to include, but not be limited to: roof design, complete
description of exterior building materials, exterior building colors,
all loading zones, mechanical and electrical equipment locations
and their required screening devices, and signs attached to
buildings. The building elevations shall represent the established
"Old Florida Fishing Village" theme architecture.
d.
Site Liahtina Plan (may be incorporated into site plan): Must
indicate site lighting plan, as well as a light fixture schedule with
cut sheets (written specifications and pictorial representation of
fixture) for all site lighting fixtures. This includes any site lighting
fixtures attached to building.
e.
Sian Elevations (minimum scale: 3/4" = 1' G"): These are to be
detailed drawings of building and site signage, including all items
affecting the appearance of signs including, but not limited to:
dimensions, area in sq. feet, complete description of finish
materials and their colors, and method of illumination. This is
required for all outdoor signs except those which cannot be
determined because the occupancy of the space is not known.
Any signs not approved for this reason must be approved prior to
the issuance of a sign permit.
f.
Color samples (minimum sample sizes: 3" x 5"): Building exterior
and exterior signage color samples shall be submitted.
D. ADproval for Chanae of Exterior Design Required: Any exterior change of any
structure in the Riverfront District, originally required to comply with this code
(building constructed, substantially renovated buildings, or building converted
from residential to commercial after _), shall require review by the
Community Development Department. Such changes shall include, but not be
limited to, colors, building materials, roof finishes, and signage. Routine
maintenance and replacement of materials which does not affect the approved
exterior design shall be exempt from this paragraph.
E. Prohibited Architectural Stvles: The following will not be considered to be of an
"Old Florida Fishing Village" architectural style nor appropriate for the Riverfront
District and are prohibited:
1. Corporate signature or commercial prototype architecture, unless such is
consistent with all requirements of this code. Examples of such include
fat roofed convenience stores and gas stations, and the like.
Appendix A. Page 7
2. Buildings which are of symbolic design for reasons of advertising and
buildings which are not compatible to the atmosphere of Riverfront
District. Examples of such include "A frame" style roofs, garishly colored
roofs, translucent architectural elements, and the like. Symbols attached
to buildings will not be allowed unless they are secondary in appearance
to the building and landscape, and are an aesthetic asset to the building
project and neighborhood.
3. Any kitsch architecture (pretentious bad taste) which does not resemble
a typical structure. Examples of such include structures that resemble
an exaggerated plant, fish, edible food, or other such items such as giant
oranges, ice cream cones, dinosaurs and the like.
4. Any architecture having a historical reference that is so unique and
different from current design philosophy of an "Old Florida Fishing
Village" that such reference is inconsistent and/or incompatible with
surrounding structures. Examples of such include igloos, domes or
geodesic domes, Quonset style structures, teepees, log cabins,
medieval castle, caves, and the like.
5. Styles that are not in the "Old Florida Fishing Village" theme. Art Deco
style is prohibited. Key West, Bahamian, or Victorian styles are
discouraged.
^ Sec. 20A-19.1.5.2 SPECIAL PROVISIONS.
A. Provisions: The "Uses" below must follow all criteria set forth in this code. The
following are added criteria for each specific "Use":
1. Residential: Rooftop screening devices will not be required for attic
ventilators or plumbing roof vents on residentially designated properties.
However, roof ventilators, roof vents, and the like are to be located
where they will be least visible from roadways.
2. Commercial: The materials and colors of shopping centers and
structures developed on shopping center outparcels shall be compatible
and harmonious with each other. Such coordination shall apply to roof
materials and their colors, wall finishes and their colors, freestanding and
wall signage, and other significant architectural details. This requirement
may be waived by the Community Development Department if:
a. the initial shopping center or outparcel was built prior to the
enactment of this code.
b. it is determined by the Community Development Department that
enforcement of this requirement would conflict with the intent of
this code.
Sec. 20A-19.1.5.3 DESIGN CRITERIA.
Appendix A. Page 8
.,
A. General Design Criteria:
All sides of a building are to be of compatible materials. Buildings with
facades fronting on more than one street should have equal design
considerations and consistent detailing on all street frontages.
B. General Items Which Are Prohibited:
Flat, blank, unarticulated, or massive facades located within view of a
roadway are prohibited. Facades located within view of a roadway are
to incorporate architectural elements providing breaks in the planes of
exterior walls and/or roofs. Facades located within view of roadway are
to be designed to lessen the appearance of excessive bulk (this is
especially important for large-scale commercial structures). Facades
should be articulated to relieve the mass. Facades should incorporate
elements relating to human scale. Facades can be divided by use of:
proportional expression of structure, openings, arcades, canopies,
fenestration, changes of the building, and the like. (Stepping or sloping
of a parapet wall in conjunction with a low sloped roof is prohibited.)
Flat, blank, unarticulated, or massive facades will be permitted on the
sides and rear of a building where "Blank Facade Foundation Planting" is
utilized (see landscape section for requirements).
2. The following materials or systems are prohibited as a finish and/or
exposed product: corrugated or ribbed panels, smooth finish concrete
block (standard concrete masonry units), precast concrete tee systems,
plywood or textured plywood. Plywood will be allowed for soffit material.
3. Plastic or metal is prohibited as a finish material for walls, facia, or trim.
This does not exclude the use of typical metal flashing, wall cap, drip
edge, and the like. This does not exclude the use of metal or vinyl facia
6 inches or less in height. Plastic is prohibited as a finish material for
slope roofs or visible roof structures.
4. Any exposed masonry in a stack bond is prohibited.
5. Lighting that follows the form of the building, parts of the building, or
building elements is prohibited.
6. Neon lighting trim where the neon tube is visible is prohibited (See Sec.
20A-19.1.8. for neon sign requirements).
7. Backlit transparent architectural elements, backlit architectural elements,
as well as illuminated or backlit awnings are prohibited. This does not
prohibit the use of glass blocks. This does not prohibit the use of an
illuminated sign attached to a building.
8. Facades that appear to be primarily awnings are prohibited. Awnings
shall not run continuous for more than 30% of the length of a facade.
Appendix A. Page 9
9. "Drive -up" windows or "loud speakers" located on a building facade that
faces a residential use are prohibited. They shall not be located on a
building facade that faces U.S. #1, unless they are designed in such a
manner as to be an aesthetic asset to the building and neighborhood.
10. Temporary storage sheds, car canopies, and the like are prohibited.
C. Roofs and parapets:
Slope Roofs: Gable, hip, and shed style roofs shall have a slope no less
than 5:12 (rise:run) and not greater than 10:12 (rise:run). Mansard style
roofs with a slope greater than 10:12 (rise:run) are prohibited. Generous
eaves on sloped roofs are encouraged. Rafters at overhangs should be
exposed. Any roof with a slope less than 5:12 (rise:run) ("low sloped
roof') shall not be visible from a roadway. Low sloped roofs must be
screened with a visible roof structure or parapet wall. Sheds, porches
and balconies roofs shall have a slope no less than 3:12 (rise:run).
2. Visible roof structures: Visible roof structures shall be of such height,
bulk, and mass, so as to appear structural, even where the design is
non-structural. Visible roof structures shall have a minimum vertical rise
of six feet (not including facia). Visible roof structures shall have a slope
no less than 5:12 and not greater than 10:12 (rise:run). Mansard style
visible roof structures with a slope greater than 10:12 (rise:run) are
prohibited. Where visible roof structures are utilized in a building design,
they shall be continuous around all sides of the structure, except where
incorporated with a parapet wall or other architectural element (this does
not allow "Stuck -on" roofs). Any facade that is not visible from a
roadway will not require a continuous visible roof structure on that
facade. Any building with less than 3500 square feet of enclosed space
and utilizing a low sloped roof must have a visible roof structure on all
facades which are visible from a roadway.
3. The following roof styles would not be in keeping with the intended
character of the Riverfront District and, therefore, are prohibited: "A
frame" style, bowstring, dome, gambrel, non -symmetrical gable or hip
(different slope on each side of ridge), Quonset style, or Polynesian
roofs.
4. The ridge or plane of a roof (or visible roof structure), that runs parallel
(or slightly parallel) with a roadway shall not run continuous for more
than 1 00'without offsetting or jogging the roof ridge or plane a minimum
of 16 inches. Low slope roofs are excluded from this requirement.
5. Roofing on sloped roofs and visible roof structures shall be
limited to the following systems:
'^ a. Cedar shingles with factory treated class B finish.
Appendix A. Page 10
�., b. Steel, copper, and factory painted aluminum standing
seam roofing.
C. 5-V crimp roof.
d. Galvanized metal or copper shingles of Victorian or
diamond shape or pattern.
e. Fiberglass or asphalt shingle.
Architectural standing seam roofs shall be limited to the following
systems: flat metal panels with narrow raised seams running 12 to 20
inches apart, which are secured with continuous seam covers or
mechanically seamed. Light and natural colors, as well as mill finish
metal roofs are encouraged. Mixing colors of metal panels is prohibited.
Roofs on any one site shall be of a one color.
6. Roofing materials are prohibited for use as a finish material on parapets
or any surface with a slope greater than 10:12 (rise:run), up to and
including vertical surfaces. This pertains only to those surfaces visible
from any point around the entire building perimeter, up to six feet above
grade. This does not exclude the use of metal facia six inches or less in
height. This does not exclude the use of typical metal flashing, wall cap,
drip edge, and the like. This does not exclude the use of roofing
materials as a screening device, as long as it does not function as a
building's parapet. This does not exclude the use of cedar shingles or
shakes as a wall materiel used below the roof line.
7. Plastic or metal roof panels or systems, corrugated or ribbed roof panels,
hot mopped systems, built-up, gravel, torched on, foam or fluid applied,
roll or membrane roofing, and the like are prohibited on any roof which is
visible from any roadway and/or residentially designated area. This does
not exclude the use of architectural standing seam metal roofing or
galvanized 5-V crimp metal roofing.
8. "Stuck -on" visible roof structure are not permitted. Partial parapet walls
are not permitted. If a parapet wall is used on a building, then a parapet
wall of the same style and material is to be continuous around all sides
of the structure, except where incorporated with a visible roof structure or
other architectural element. Introduction of any visible roof structure
shall not appear'fake". Any facade that is not visible from a roadway
will not require a continuous parapet wall on that facade. Stepping or
sloping of a parapet wall in conjunction with a low sloped roof is
prohibited.
D. Site:
1. All telephones, vending machines, or any facility dispensing
merchandise or a service on private property, shall be confined to a
Appendix A. Page 11
space built into the building or buildings, or enclosed in a separate
structure compatible with the main building's architecture. These areas
are to be designed with the safety of the user in mind. Public phones
and ATMs should have 24 hour access.
2. No advertising will be allowed on any exposed amenity or facility such as
benches and trash containers.
3. When at all possible, existing specimen trees, as defined by Article XIV,
Tree Protection, should not be removed, or, at the very least, should be
relocated on site. Use of tree wells, as well as adaptation and variations
of siting in order to conserve native vegetation, is encouraged.
4. Installation of utilities underground is required (Le.: telephone, electricity,
cable).
5. The use of thematic and decorative site lighting is encouraged. All
luminaires (fixtures) should be selected not only for their functional
value, but for their aesthetic qualities. In addition to safety and
resistance to vandalism, site lighting should be designed for visual effect.
Low lights of a modest scale can be used along with feature lighting
emphasizing plants, trees, entrances, and exits. Light bollards are
encouraged along pedestrian paths. The color of the light sources
(lamp) should be consistent throughout the project. Color of site lighting
^" luminaires, poles, and the like, shall be limited to dark bronze, black, or
dark green (decorative fixtures attached to buildings are exempt from
fixture color requirement).
Lighting is not to be used as a form of advertising or in a manner that
draws considerably more attention to the building or grounds at night
than in the day. Site lighting shall be designed to direct light into the
property. It is to avoid any annoyance to the neighbors from brightness
or glare. Roadway style luminaries (fixtures) such as cobra heads,
Name Heads, and the like are prohibited. Wall pack and flood light
luminaries are prohibited where the light source would be visible from a
roadway and/or existing residential uses. The following luminaire's light
distribution shall be a full 90 degree cutoff and meet IES (Illumination
Electrical Society) specifications:
a. All *H.I.D. luminaires mounted higher than 18 feet above grade.
b. All ceiling mounted `H.I.D. luminaires.
(`H.I.D.: High intensity discharge lamps include high pressure
sodium, metal halide, mercury vapor, and tungsten halogen.)
6. When chain link fences are used, they must be standard green or black
and planted with appropriate vines or adequate landscape to screen the
fence from view of a roadway. Barbed wire on fences are prohibited.
Appendix A. Page 12
E. Screenino Devices:
"Visually offensive elements", whether freestanding, mounted on roofs,
or anywhere on a structure, shall be concealed from view on all sides.
"Visually offensive elements" consist of: walk-in cooters/freezers,
transformers, electrical equipment (including panels and meters), water
or waste piping and valves, pumps, satellite dishes, antennas, fans,
exhaust vents, compressors, generators, tanks, and similar equipment.
Individual screens, building elements, or appropriate landscaping, are to
be used to completely screen the offensive elements. Parapet walls,
visible roof structures, individual screens, or building elements, are to be
used to completely screen roof mounted, visually offensive elements.
They are to be screened from view from any point around the entire
building perimeter. Screening devices shall relate to the building's style
of architecture and materials. All screening devices shall be designed so
that no pan of the offensive element extends beyond the top of the
screen, measured horizontally. Rooftop screening devices will not be
required for plumbing roof vents which are less than four inches in
diameter and less than twelve inches above roof penetration. These
roof vents should be located where they will be least visible from
roadways.
2. "Visual/sound offensive elements" shall be visually screened from
adjacent roadways with solid walls or fences. This is in addition to any
required landscaping. "Visual/sound offensive elements" consist of:
loading and unloading dock areas, dumpster and trash container areas,
and commercial grade HVAC equipment. Walls or fences at loading and
unloading dock areas shall be a minimum eight feet in height above
grade at loading area (where loading docks/areas are recessed, average
grade around building will be considered "grade"). All other walls or
fences shall be a minimum six feet in height. All dumpster and trash
container areas shall be completely screened on all four sides.
Acoustical material is to be used on inside face of walls or fences around
HVAC equipment.
3. Individual screens and walls shall relate to the building's style of
architecture and materials. A durable material such as reinforced
concrete masonry units is recommended with an architecturally
compatible finish. Wood fences as a screening device are encouraged.
4. Chain link fencing, with or without slats, is not acceptable as a screening
device.
F. Sionade:
Signage shall meet the requirements of 20A-19.1.8.
G. Colors:
Appendix A. Page 13
AOWA 1. The intent is to use colors that complement the adopted "Old Florida
Fishing Village" theme. Some national and regional commercial chain
stores typically paint their buildings using bright and garish colors, as a
means of attracting attention to their business. This practice is not
characteristic of the Riverfront District and is not compatible with this
code's objectives.
2. Whites, earthtones, and subdued greys are encouraged. These colors
can be described as being "softer', "older", "subdued", and "antique
looking".
3. Loud pastels and Bahamian style colors are discouraged
4. Fluorescent, bright, and shiny colors are prohibited.
5. Roof Colors (requirements for roofs that are visible from a roadway):
Metal roof colors shall consist of natural mill finish, white, light neutral
colors in the warm range, and a limited number of earth -tone colors.
Mixing or alternating colors of metal panels is prohibited. For remaining
roofs, the following shall dictate: Other than natural variations in color or
color blends within a tile, the mixing or alternating of roof color, in the
same roof material is prohibited. Colors and color blends shall not be
contrary to the intent of this code. Color for roofing which is glazed,
slurry coated, or artificially colored on the surface by any other means
shall be limited to the same colors as approved for metal roofs.
6. Natural Finish Materials: The color requirements listed above shall not
apply to the colors of true natural finish materials such as brick, stone,
terra cotta, concrete roof tiles, slate, integrally colored concrete masonry
units, copper, and wood finishes. Colors commonly found in natural
materials are encouraged, unless such material has been artificially
colored in a manner which would be contrary to the intent of this code.
Black, gray, blue, or extremely dark colors for brick, concrete masonry
units, roofing, or stone is prohibited.
7. Awnino Colors: Awning colors shall be limited to the primary building
color or trim color.
H. Building Walls
The exterior walls of the Principal Building shall be constructed of any of the
following materials and in the following specified manner. All materials shall be
used over the entire building or as continuous horizontal blends only. No
panelizing shall be permitted or other simulations.
Stucco with a "float finish," smooth or coarse, machine spray, dash and
troweled.
A-%, 2. Wood Clapboard 5" to the weather.
Appendix A. Page 14
10-41 3. Wood Shingles 7" to the weather.
4. On residential buildings only, wood board or batten board of a board
width from 8" to 12".
5. Wood shiplap siding smooth face 7" to the weather.
6. Coral, keystone or tabby.
7. Ashlar pattern, flush sawn finish.
8. Split face block.
I. Arcades and Dorches:
The Arcades and Porches of the Principal Building shall be constructed of any
of the following materials and in the following specified manner. No simulations
shall be permitted.
1. Materials shall either be of wood or conform to the construction materials
of the Principal Building.
2. Arches shall be not less than 16' in depth. Masonry piers shall be no
less than 16" by 16" and wood posts shall be no less than 4" by 4".
Balusters shall be separated not more than 5" on center.
J. Windows and doors:
The Windows and Doors of the Principal Building shall be constructed with any
of the following materials, configurations, operations and options. No
simulations shall be permitted.
1. Materials
a. Glass clear, low E, stained, leaded and beveled.
b. On side and rear elevations, translucent glass may be used.
C. Painted and stained wood.
d. Aluminum and vinyl dad wood.
e. Steel and aluminum.
f. Flat sky lights in sloped roofs.
g. Tinted glass may be used; however, in no case shall a street -side
.^ display window be of tinted glass other than to meet current
energy efficiency codes.
Appendix A. Page 15
r., 2. Configurations
a.
Square and vertical rectangular.
b.
Circular and semi -circular.
C.
Semi -ellipse.
d.
Octagonal.
e.
Diamond.
3. Operations
a.
Single and double hung.
b.
Casement.
C.
Fixed with frame.
d.
Awning windows.
e.
On side and rear elevations, sliders may be used .
4. Options
a.
Woods shutters sized to match openings, preferably operable.
b.
Wood and metal jalousies.
C.
Fabric awnings excluding quarterballs.
d.
Bahamas shutters.
e.
Screened windows and doors.
f.
Security grills of a pattern which is consistent with the "Old Florida
Fishing Village" theme, approved by the Community Development
Director.
K. Garden walls:
Garden walls are discouraged. The garden walls of the Principal Building shall
be constructed of either wood, wrought iron, or PVC lattice, or shall conform to
the construction materials of the Principal Building, including stone, brick, and
stucco. Chain link fence concealed by landscaping may be used along the side
and rear of the property. No simulations shall be permitted.
L. Outbuildings:
Appendix A. Page 16
,.., Outbuildings when permitted within the Urban District shall be constructed of the
same materials used in the Principal Building. Outbuildings may include
fountains, barbecues, pavilions, arbors, detached garages and carports, dog
houses, greenhouses, slat houses, pool and pool equipment structures,
cabanas and detached garage apartments and in-law apartment. Canvas
Outbuildings are not permitted. Where an outbuilding is designed for
residential use, there shall be not less than ten feet separation between the
outbuilding and the Principal Building.
Sec. 20A-19.1.6 RIVERFRONT DISTRICT URBAN CODE
Sec. 20A-19.1.6.1. PURPOSE
A. Purpose: The purpose of this part is to describe certain Performance Overlay
zones used to impose special development restrictions on identified areas. The
location of Performance Overlay zones is established by the City of Sebastian based
on the need for special protective measures in that area. The underlying uses in the
area, as determined in Division I of this Code, remain undisturbed by the creation of the
Performance Overlay zone. The Performance Overlay zone merely imposes additional
or different development standards than those that would otherwise apply.
B. Title:
The provisions of section 20A-19.7. shall be known as the "Riverfront District
'"ftk Urban Code."
Sec. 20A-19.1.6.2. GENERAL
A. Intent:
This Riverfront District Urban Code is designed to encourage development and
redevelopment within the Riverfront District as described below by offering
development incentives that are not otherwise available by this code including
the promotion of traditional building types with arcades, balconies, and porches,
the creation of a sense of place and the promotion of social interaction on the
streets of riverfront section of Sebastian, mandated building alignments to
define coherent streets, the location of outbuildings at the rear of lots for
affordable housing, the aesthetic protection of the streetscape from parking lots,
and traditional, durable construction which is harmonious with the architectural
heritage known as the "Old Florida Fishing Village" of Sebastian.
Sec. 20A-19.1.6.3. URBAN STANDARDS AND REGULATIONS
The following urban standards and regulations are governed by the categories
of 'BUILDING PLACEMENT," "OUTBUILDING," 'PARKING,"
"ARCHITECTURAL FEATURES," and "BUILDING HEIGHT," related thereto as
described in this Riverfront District Urban Code. The geographic location of
each of the seven Types is described in the Riverfront Urban District map.
Appendix A. Page 17
A. Urban types:
TYPE
TYPE II
TYPE III
TYPE IV
TYPE V
TYPE VI
B. Specifications:
1. TYPE I —COMMERCIAL
a. Description
Commercial
Low intensity residentiaVwmmercial;
Resort;
Downtown,
Medium intensity residential/commercial;
Waterfront;
The TYPE I urban space is characterized by large buildings,
parking, and minimal open space. The purpose of the TYPE I is
to provide for opportunities to develop general commercial
establishments.
b. Building Placement.
(1) The front building facade shall be constructed parallel to
the street along the front property line with a setback of
ten feet.
(2) The side setbacks are a minimum of ten feet. The side
setback shall be 15 feet when a commercial use is
abutting a residential use.
(3) The rear setback is zero feet. The rear setback shall be
15 feet when a commercial use is abutting a residential
use.
(4) The width of the principal building shall be not more than
90% of the lot width.
C. Outbuilding.
(1) outbuildings are permitted.
d. Parking.
(1) Parking shall not be located within ten feet of the front
and side property lines but may otherwise be located
anywhere on the property. Parking shall not be located
within twenty feet of property which has a residential use.
(2) All parking areas shall be screened by a landscape buffer.
Appendix A. Page 18
e. Additional Architectural Features.
(1) None required.
f. Building Height.
(1). The maximum building height is the lesser of three stories
or thirty-five feet.
2. TYPE II — LOW INTENSITY RESIDENTIAL/COMMERCIAL
a. Description
The TYPE II urban space is characterized by low density uses
dominated by open space. Parking is not a major feature on the
site. The purpose of the TYPE II urban space is to preserve the
existing low density residential areas of the Riverfront district.
b. Building Placement.
(1) The front building facade shall be constructed parallel to
the street with a setback of thirty feet.
(2) The side setbacks are ten feet.
(3) The rear setback shall be twenty feet.
(4) The width of the principal building shall be not more than
75% of the lot width.
C. Outbuilding.
(1) One outbuilding may be located in the 20 foot rear
setback. There shall be a five foot setback from the rear
property line for all outbuildings.
d. Parking.
(1) All parking areas shall be located behind the front building
facade and not within ten feet of the side or rear property
line.
(2) All parking areas shall be screened by a landscape buffer.
e. Additional Architectural Features.
i►. (1) Porches on the front building facade are required.
Porches shall have a minimum depth of four feet and a
Appendix A. Page 19
,.1 minimum length of 20% of the building width. On comer
properties, porches must be constructed along both street
facades.
(2) Wood picket fences, wrought iron fences or landscape
buffers are required along the front property line and on
comer lots, along the side property line. Arbors and
trellises are permitted in the front yard and may be located
along property lines. Except for arbors and trellises, the
minimum height of fences shall be three feet and the
maximum height shall be four feet. The maximum height
for arbors and trellises shall be ten feet. Above fences,
architectural features of up to twelve inches shall be
allowed. Such features shall be spaced a minimum of ten
feet apart. Chain link fences are not permitted in the front
yards.
Building Height.
(1) The maximum building height is the lesser of three stories
or thirty-five feet.
3. TYPE III -- RESORT
r� a. Description
The TYPE III urban space is characterized by large buildings with
significant open space with lush landscaping. The purpose of the
TYPE III urban space is to preserve the existing time
share/hotel/bed & breakfast character of the area. The TYPE III
area is also intended to establish and preserve the high quality,
well landscaped development in the area.
b. Building Placement.
(1) The front building facade shall be constructed parallel to
the street with a setback of twenty-five feet.
(2) The side setbacks shall be fifteen feet.
(3) The rear setback shall be fifteen feet.
(4) The width of the principal building shall be not more than
80% of the lot Width.
C. Outbuilding.
r.. (1) Outbuildings are permitted.
d. Parking.
Appendix A. Page 20
(1) All parking areas shall be located to the side or rear of the
principal building. No parking shall be located within ten
feet of the side or rear property line.
(2) All parking areas shall be screened by a wall or landscape
buffer from the street.
e. Additional Architectural Features.
(1) Porches and balconies are encouraged.
(2) Wood picket fences, wrought iron fences or hedges are
required along the front property line and on comer lots,
along the side property line of the adjoining street. Arbors
and trellises are permitted in the front yard and may be
located along property lines. Except for arbors and
trellises, the minimum height shall be three feet and the
maximum height shall be four feet. The maximum height
for arbors and trellises shall be ten feet. Above fences,
Architectural Features of up to twelve inches shall be
allowed. Such features shall be spaced a minimum of ten
feet apart. Chain link fences are not permitted in the front
^. yards.
f. Building Height.
(1) The maximum building height is the lesser of three stories
or thirty-five feet.
4. TYPE IV — DOWNTOWN
a. Description
The TYPE IV urban district is characterized by pedestrian
oriented development. The intent of the TYPE IV urban district is
to establish a "downtown" area for the City in the Riverfront
district.
b. Building Placement.
(1) The front setback is zero feet.
(2) For lots on the east side of US 1, the side setbacks are
five feet on one side and forty-five feet on the "other". For
lots west of US 1, the side yard setback is ten feet, fifteen
feet when abutting a residential use. For lots of less than
^ 100 feet in width, the other side yard is 25% of the lot
Width.
Appendix A. Page 21
�.
(3) The rear setback may be zero feet.
(4) The width of the principal building shall be not more than
50% of the lot width.
C.
Outbuilding.
(1) Outbuildings are not permitted.
d.
Parking.
(1) All parking areas shall be located to the side or rear of the
principal building and not within ten feet of the side or rear
property line.
(2) All parking areas shall be screened by a landscape buffer
from the street.
e.
Additional Architectural Features.
(1) Arcades, porches and balconies are encouraged.
f.
Building Height.
(1) The maximum building height is the lesser of three stories
or thirty-five feet.
5. TYPE
V — MEDIUM INTENSITY RESIDENTIALICOMMERCIAL
a.
Description
The TYPE V urban district is characterized by low to medium
density residential and commercial development. The buildings
are not as big as what would be allowed in the TYPE I or TYPE III
district. Open space is a major feature of the design of the site.
The purpose of the TYPE V district is to preserve the low to
medium intensity development in the area.
b.
Building Placement.
(1) The front building facade shall be constructed parallel to
the street with a front setback of twenty-five feet.
(2) The side setback is ten feet. The side setback is fifteen
feet when a commercial use is abutting a residential use.
(3) The rear setback is twenty feet.
Appendix A. Page 22
(4) The width of the principal building shall be not more than
80% of the lot Width.
C. Outbuilding.
(1) One outbuilding may be located in the twenty foot rear
setback. The rear setback for an outbuilding is five feet.
d. Parking.
(1) All parking areas shall be located behind the rear building
facade.
e. Additional Architectural Features.
(1) Porches on the front building facade are required.
Porches shall have a minimum depth of eight feet and a
minimum length of 20% of the building width. On comer
properties, porches must be constructed along both street
facades. Balconies are encouraged.
(2) Wood picket fences, wrought iron fences or hedges are
encouraged along the front property line and on comer
lots, along the side property line of the adjoining street.
Arbors and trellises are permitted in the front yard and may
be located along property lines. Except for arbors and
trellises, the minimum height shall be three feet and the
maximum height shall be four feet. The maximum height
for arbors and trellises shall be ten feet. Above walls and
fences, Architectural Features of up to twelve inches shall
be allowed. Such features shall be spaced a minimum of
ten feet apart. Chain link fences are not permitted in the
front yards.
f. Building Height.
(1) The maximum Building Height is the lesser of three stories
or thirty-five feet.
6. TYPE VI — WATERFRONT
a. Description
The TYPE VI urban district is characterized by maintaining vistas
to the Indian River and small building sizes. The purpose of the
TYPE VI district is to preserve visual access to the waterfront
while providing reasonable opportunities for limited development.
b. Building Placement.
Appendix A. Page 23
(1) The front building facade shall be constructed parallel to
the street with a front setback of twenty feet.
(2) The side setbacks are fifteen feet.
(3) The rear setback for all structures is fifteen feet from the
mean high water line.
(4) A minimum twenty foot vista shall be provided between
principal buildings.
(5) The width of the principal building shall be not more than
50% of the lot width.
(6) If a building facade is 100 feet or more in width measured
parallel to the nearest body of water, a vista of at least ten
feet in width and eight feet in height shall be required
within the building's facade to allow a visual corridor from
the public right-of-way to the adjacent body of water.
C. Outbuilding.
(1) One outbuilding is permitted in the rear yard. Outbuildings
shall be setback not less than fifteen feet from the side
and rear property lines and shall not be located within a
Vista.
d. Parking.
(1) Parking shall be located to the side of the principle
building and shall not be located within ten feet of the
front and side property.
e. Additional Architectural requirements.
(1) Porches on the front building facade are required.
Porches shall have a minimum depth of eight feet and a
minimum length of 20% of the building width. On comer
properties, porches must be constructed along both street
facades.
(2) Wood picket fences, wrought iron fences or hedges are
required along the front property line and on comer lots,
along the side property line on the adjoining street.
Arbors and trellises are permitted in the front yard and
may be located along property lines. Except for arbors
and trellises, the minimum height shall be three feet and
the maximum height shall be four feet. The maximum
Appendix A. Page 24
n height for arbors and trellises shall be ten feet. Above
walls and fences, Architectural Features of up to twelve
inches shall be allowed. Such features shall be spaced a
minimum of ten feet apart. Chain link fences are not
permitted in the front yards.
f. Building Height.
(1) The maximum Building Height is the lesser of two stones
or twenty-five feet.
C. Additional specifications and reouirements:
1 Storaoe sheds. One storage shed may be located on any lot within the
Urban District.
2. Multiple Frontages. In the event a single lot abuts more than two streets,
the setback and architectural requirements shall only apply to two street
facades.
3. Conflicts with Utilities, In instances where the required location of a
building, including architectural requirements, conflicts with existing
utilities or other public infrastructure, the developer shall be required to
relocate such utilities if the cost of relocation is less than 5% of the cost
of the proposed building or improvements (excluding land value), and
the utilities can be relocated within 150 feet of the subject property.
Otherwise, the Community Development Director may recommend
adjustments to the requirements of this Riverfront District Urban Code to
rectify any conflicts with utilities or other public infrastructure. No utilities
shall be located beneath a principle building. Any decision regarding the
relocation of utilities or public infrastructure may be appealed to the City
Council.
4. Historic Buildinas. The Community Development Director or the
Planning and Zoning Commission may recommend that requirements of
this Riverfront District Urban Code be waived by the City Council for the
purposes of preserving a Historic Building.
D. Front yard:
In those Urban Types in which require a front yard, the following uses shall be
prohibited:
1 . Clothes lines and other clothes drying apparatus.
2. Electrical meters.
^ 3. Air conditioning equipment including window units on the Building
Facade.
Appendix A. Page 25
4. Antennas and satellite- dishes.
5. Chain link fences.
Sec. 20A-19.1.7 RIVERFRONT DISTRICT LANDSCAPE CODE
Sec. 20A-19.1.7.1. LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTS
A. Requirements: All development in the Riverfront District shall comply with the
Landscaping requirements as described in Division III. Landscape and Tree
Ordinances an shall comply with the following additional requirements:
Landscape Strips
a. The width of the perimeter landscape strips shall be determined
by the required front, side and rear setbacks as described in the
Riverfront District Urban Code. For residential uses, as defined
in Sec. 20A -2.5.A., the perimeter landscape strips shall be 25%
of those setbacks.
Appendix A. Page 26
For community facility and commercial uses, the perimeter
landscape strips shall be 50% of those setbacks, but not less
than ten feet. When a zero front setback is allowed and is used,
a front perimeter landscape strip between the building and the
property line is not required. If the building is located within ten
feet of the front property line, the front yard shall be landscaped.
Where a commercial use abuts an existing residential use, the
perimeter landscape strips shall be 75% of those side or rear
setbacks as appropriate.
b.
The width of the interior landscaped strips located along the sides
of a community facility and commercial building which abut any
parking area shall be ten feet.
c.
The width of the landscaped strip of land located between the
building walls of a multi -family development and parking areas
shall be five feet.
d.
Required perimeter and interior landscape strips shall not be
used for any other uses including stonnwater management.
e.
No more than 25% of the required perimeter and interior
landscape strips shall be covered in sod or grass.
f.
All required perimeter and interior landscape strips not sodded or
grassed shall be covered in mulch. Lava rocks or other dark
rocks may be used in areas of high pedestrian traffic. In no case
can river rock, gravel, pea rock, or similar material be used in
Appendix A. Page 26
2.
required perimeter and interior landscape strips.
Interior landscaping requirements
Along the front sides and rear of all buildings, the following
foundation landscape strip shall be provided in accordance with
building height.
Building Heiaht
Foundation Plantina Strio Width
up to 12 high
5 feet
12' to 25' high
10 feet
over 25' high
15 feet
The purpose of the foundation landscape strip is to break up the
mass of a building. Clustering of materials is encouraged to
provide visibility to areas of the building face that may have
architectural features or signage.
b. Foundation landscape strips may be located away from a building
to avoid conflicts with architectural features (e.g. roof overhangs)
and vehicular access areas (e.g. drive -up windows). The depth
of the foundation landscape strip may be modified if the required
foundation landscape strip exceeds the required building setback.
Within such foundation landscape strips the following landscape
shall be provided:
(1) For buildings up to 12' high:
(a) Three shrubs for every ten square feet of required
area.
(b) Ground cover or flowering plants.
(c) The foundation landscape strips shall not be
grassed and shall be covered in mulch. Lava
rocks or other dark material may be used in areas
of high pedestrian traffic. In no case can river
rock, gravel, pea rock, or similar material be used
in the foundation landscape strips.
(2) For buildings 12' to 25' in height
(a) One understory tree for every ten feet of
foundation landscape strip. Trees may be
clumped in group plantings. The understory trees
may not count toward the required tree count
required by Division III.
Appendix A. Page 27
(b) Three shrubs for every ten square feet of required
area.
(c) Ground cover or flowering plants.
(d) The foundation landscape strips shall not be
grassed and shall be covered in mulch. Lava
rocks or other dark material may be used in areas
of high pedestrian traffic. In no case can river
rock, gravel, pea rock, or similar material be used
in the foundation landscape strips.
(3) For buildings over 25' in height:
(a) One canopy tree for every fifteen feet of
foundation landscape strip. Trees may be
clumped in group plantings. The canopy trees
may count toward the required tree count required
by Division III.
(b) One understory tree for every ten feet of
foundation landscape strip. Trees may be
clumped in group plantings. The understory trees
may not count toward the required tree count
required by Division III.
(c) Three shrubs for every ten square feet of required
area.
(d) Ground cover or flowering plants.
(e) The foundation landscape strips shall not be
grassed and shall be covered in mulch. Lava
rocks or similar dark material may be used in areas
of high pedestrian traffic. In no case can river
rock, gravel, pea rock, or similar material be used
in the foundation landscape strips.
d. Buildings with a flat, blank, unarticulated, or massive facade shall
provide a 100% increase (doubling) in the required plant material
quantities as specified above.
3. Tree requirements
a. The number of trees required shall be 25% more than that
required by Division III.
^ b. In order to encourage the installation of tall trees within the
Riverfront District, trees, other than palms, planted on the site,
Appendix A. Page 28
which are greater than twelve inches in height shall count as two
trees for meeting the required tree count.
In order to preserve the existing tall trees in the Riverfront District,
each tree other than palms, in excess of 30' in height, which is
preserved on the site shall have one additional tree credit over
and above the credit provided for in Division III.
4. Required landscape plan
a. The landscape plan for all required perimeter and interior
landscape strips shall include ground -cover, understory and
canopy plant material. The ground cover and/or understory plant
material shall be adequate to cover the landscape strip at the
time of installation.
b. The ground cover plant material shall be adapted to the lighting
conditions which will result as the understory and canopy plants
mature. It is recognized that as the understory and canopy plant
material matures, the ground cover will be reduced in area
covered.
C.
The understory plant material includes shrubs and hedges.
10-k, d.
The canopy plant material shall be sufficient to form a canopy
over the required perimeter and interior landscape strips within
five years. The canopy of the canopy plant material shall be
encouraged to continue over adjacent areas.
C.
The landscape plan shall include an irrigation plan, a description
of the soil preparation and a maintenance plan.
f.
The landscape plan shall provide for visual access to the Indian
River.
5. Other
requirements
a.
The street facade of a building may contain a hedge, potted
plants, or trees planted in public right-of-way.
b.
In the case of redevelopment where the location of required
Landscaping is precluded by existing buildings or permanent site
improvements, the placement of landscaping may occur off-site,
in planters, in openings within paved areas, or in other locations
as determined by the Community Development Director.
C.
For parcels east of Indian River Drive, the landscape plan shall
^
include a description of the existing and proposed shoreline and
wetland vegetation.
Appendix A. Page 29
Sec. 20A-19.1.8. RIVERFRONT DISTRICT SIGN REGULATIONS
Sec. 20A-19.1.8.1 GENERAL
A. Scope: This article shall be cited as the 'Riverfront District Sign Ordinance".
This Riverfront District Sign Ordinance consists of additional requirements
above and beyond the City of Sebastian Sign Ordinance (Article XV) and shall
supersede any less restrictive provisions found in the City of Sebastian Sign
Ordinance. All signage shall comply with the requirements of Article XV except
as modified by this Riverfront District Sign Ordinance. The following sign
ordinance requires compliance for all signage in the Riverfront District as stated
herein. This also pertains to any alterations affecting signage. Compliance with
the provisions in this code shall be reviewed for approval by the Community
Development Department. Precedence shall not be set by any sign variances
approved by the Board of Adjustment or the Community Development
Department.
B. Sian Review Reauirements: In addition to requirements of Article XV, Sign
Regulation, the following is to be submitted for approval to the Community
Development Department:
1. Sian Elevations (minimum scale: 3/4" = V-0"): These are to be detailed
drawings of all signage requiring a permit. Drawings are to include all
items affecting the appearance of signs, including, but not limited to:
dimensions, area in sq. feet, complete description of finish materials and
their colors, and method of illumination. This is required for all outdoor
signs except those which cannot be determined because the occupancy
of the space is not known. Any signs not approved for this reason must
be approved prior to the issuance of a sign permit.
2. Color samples (minimum sample sizes: 3" x 5"): signage color samples
shall be submitted, using the Pantone Matching System G numbers.
Include the color number on the back of each sample.
C. Aooroval for Chanae of Sian Design Reauired: Any exterior change of signage
in the Riverfront District, originally required to comply with this sign ordinance,
shall require review and approval by the Community Development Department.
Such changes shall include, but not be limited to, changes of: sign area (square
footage), sign copy area (square footage), sign copy (this does not apply to
"changeable copy' signage), height, shape, style, location, colors, materials, or
method of illumination. Routine maintenance and replacement of materials
which does not affect the approved design shall be exempt from this paragraph.
D. Prohibited Signs (This is in addition to Section 20A-15.4 of the LDC): The
following signs would not be considered appropriate for the Riverfront District
and are prohibited:
Appendix A. Page 30
1.
Lights or illuminations that flash, move, rotate, scintillate, blink, flicker, or
vary in intensity or color, except for time -temperature -date signs. Public
signs for traffic regulation and directional signs are excluded from this
prohibition.
2.
Message boards, message centers, electronic adjustable alternation
displays, or any sign that automatically displays words, numerals, and or
characters in a programmed manner. Public signs for traffic regulation
and directional signs are excluded from this prohibition.
3.
Portable or trailer style changeable copy signs.
4.
Signs with the optical illusion of movement by means of a design that
presents a pattern capable of giving the illusion of motion or changing of
copy.
5.
Strings of light bulbs used on non-residential structures for commercial
purposes, other than traditional holiday decorations at the appropriate
time of the year.
8.
Signs that emit audible sound, odor, or visible matter, such as smoke or
steam.
7.
Window signs. Such signage shall include temporary window signs. A
cumulative total of fifteen percent (15%) of window area per building
face may be used for display of business name, business hours,
entrance or exit information, credit card or membership signs,
restaurants menus, or flyers or posters related to not for profit
organizations. Permanently affixed window signs for the store's name
and address are permitted
8. Plastic or glass sign faces (including but not limited to: acrylic, Lexan®,
or Plexiglas®). High density polyurethane and PVC are exempt from this
prohibition. Portions of a sign which are changeable copy are exempt
from this prohibition. When used in conjunction with cut-out or routered
metal cabinets, plastic used only for copy or logos is exempt from this
prohibition. Plastic used for illuminated individual channel letters or
logos is exempt from this prohibition. Although highly discouraged, a
plastic sign face will be allowed only when all of the following
requirements are met for the plastic portions of a sign:
a. Plastic shall be pan formed faced. (embossed and/or de -bossed
copy and logos are encouraged)
b. Regardless of the opaqueness of a sign, all plastic signage
backgrounds shall be a dark color (the intent here is to reduce
light transmission from signage background); All signage
background colors shall be limited to those colors with a formula
having a minimum black content of 11%, and a maximum content
Appendix A. Page 31
,.s of 49% for any shade of white. Color formulas will be based on
the Pantone Matching System®.
All color must be applied on the "second surface" (inside face of
plastic).
d. Nothing shall be applied to the "first surface" (outside face of
plastic) (i.e.: paint, vinyl, etc..)
9. Neon lighting which exceed six square feet in area, and where the neon
tube is visible is prohibited. Neon lighting shall not be used for outlining
the building including the windows.
10. Rough plywood used for permanent signs.
11. Any material used in such a manner for a permanent sign that results in:
a. A flat sign without dimension, having a semblance to a "plywood
or temporary looking sign".
12. Disregard for consistency in materials and continuity of the sign design
for a permanent sign: installation of an additional sign (or signs) that
does not harmonize with the design or materials of the initial sign.
Examples of signage that is to be prohibited include:
a. Installation of a rear illuminated plastic faced sign with a 'Wood
look" front illuminated sign.
b. Combining signs with cabinets, faces or structure of awkwardly
different materials or proportions.
C. Attachment or mounting of signs where mounting hardware is left
exposed.
d. Signs with different color cabinets, frames, structure.
13. Appliques or letters of vinyl and similar materials are discouraged for use
on any permanent monument, freestanding, or roof signs. They are also
discouraged for use on any permanent wall or facade signs that exceed
three (3) square feet. Window signs as allowed in this Chapter are
excluded from this restriction. Regardless of size, appliques or vinyl
letters are prohibited for use on plastic sign faces.
14. Excluding illuminated individual channel letters, individual plastic or wood
letters exceeding four (4) inches in height are prohibited for use on any
permanent monument, freestanding, roof, wall, or facade signs.
,.� E. Items that are Encouraoed:
Appendix A. Page 32
r-•,. 1. Attractive and durable materials such as the following and are consistent
with the "Old Florida Fishing Village" theme are encouraged:
101
a. Shaped and fashioned 'Wood look" multi level signs are
encouraged (i.e.: sand blasted or carved). Considering the
extreme weather conditions in our area, a low maintenance,
durable material such as high density polyurethane and PVC are
encouraged and preferred over actual wood or MDO.
b. Internally illuminated aluminum cabinet with textured finish, and
cut-out inset or push through acrylic letters.
C. Backlit reverse pan channel letters (opaque faced) mounted on
sign that is harmonious with the project's architecture.
2. Signage that relates to the building's style of architecture and materials
is encouraged.
3. The use of thematic signage is encouraged.
4. Changeable copy signs are discouraged. Where allowed by this Article,
changeable copy signs are encouraged to have a dark opaque
background with translucent lettering.
F. Modifications and Additions to Definitions in Section 20A - 15.2
The following definitions are added to Section 20A - 15.2
a. Abandoned sign; any sign that has not been used for six months
or that the occupational license of the business owning the sign
has not been renewed.
b. Awning sign; any awning with lettering shall be considered a sign.
Where lettering is used on an awning, the area of lettering shall
be included in the percentage limitation of a project's sign area.
b. Permanent sign; any sign allowed to be displayed for an
unlimited period of time.
C. Wide -based sign monument; a freestanding sign with a solid
base having a width equal to or greater than the width of the sign.
G. Modifications of Sion Reoulations
1. Maximum copy area: Reduce to 50% of what is allowed.
2. Maximum area: Reduce to 50% of what is allowed.
Appendix A. Page 33
,rte 3. Maximum height: Reduce to no less than six (6) feet and no greater
than ten (10) feet.
4. Required setbacks from property lines or right-of-way: No change.
5. Distance separating signs: No change.
6. Billboards: none allowed in the Riverfront District.
H. Colors:
1. The following colors are encouraged for signage:
a. Use of earth -tone colors and pastels.
b. Darker backgrounds with light color sign copy.
C. Use of colors that match or are compatible with the project's
architecture.
d. Colors such as medium or dark bronze are acceptable and
encouraged. Polished or weathered true bronze, brass, or
copper metal finished are acceptable and encouraged. Precious
metal colors are allowed on sand blasted or carved 'Wood look"
A'* style signs.
2. The following colors are prohibited for signage:
a. The use of shiny or bright metallic or mill finish colors (i.e.: gold,
silver, bronze, chrome, aluminum, stainless steel, etc...) is
prohibited.
b. The use of garish colors (including but not limited to: purple,
chartreuse and/or fluorescent colors) is prohibited, unless such
colors are part of a State or Federal registered trademark. Color
choices which are considered unusual should submit early in the
review process. These colors are less likely to receive approval.
Sec. 20A-19.1.8.2 SPECIAL PROVISIONS
A. Multi -tenant spaces! In addition to the provisions in Sec. 20A-19.1.8.1, multi -
tenant spaces such as shopping centers, out parcels, commercial complexes
and parks, and office complexes and parks will be required to submit to the
Community Development Department a sign program for review and approval.
This sign program shall communicate the coordination and consistency of
design, colors, materials, illumination, and locations of signage. In multi -tenant
spaces where no established pattern exists as described above, the owner of
the multi -tenant spaces shall be required to submit a sign program for approval
prior to issuance of any new sign permits.
Appendix A. Page 34
B. Nonconformino sians: It is the intent of Sec. 20A-19.1.8. to allow
nonconforming signs permitted before the adoption of this Code to continue
until they are no longer used, or become hazardous, but not to encourage their
survival. Such signs are hereby declared to be incompatible with the overall
intent of Sec. 20A-19.1.8.
Removal of Nonconforninq Siqns: All nonconforming signs, except as
provided herein, shall be removed as otherwise provided in Sec. 20A -
19.1.8.2.B.
2. Continuance of Nonconforminq Siqns: A nonconforming sign may be
continued, subject to the following provisions:
a. A nonconforming sign shall not be enlarged or increased in any
way from its lawful size at the time of the adoption of this Code.
b. Nonconforming signs or nonconforming sign structures that are
defined as abandoned signs, under Sec. 20A-19.1.8.1,F.1.a.,
shall not be permitted for reuse.
C. Except as otherwise provided herein, there may be a change of
tenancy or ownership of a nonconforming sign, without the loss
of nonconforming status, if the property is not abandoned.
3. Repairs. Maintenance, and Improvements: Normal repairs,
maintenance, and improvements may be made. However, the cost of
such improvements made during any two year period shall not exceed
25% of the replacement cost of the sign at the end of the two year
period.
4. Reconstruction After Catastma: If any nonconforming sign is
damaged by fire, flood, explosion, collapse, wind, war, or other
catastrophe to such an extent that the cost of repair and reconstruction
will exceed 50% of the replacement cost at the time of damage, it shall
not be used or reconstructed except in full conformity with the provisions
of this Code.
5. Casual. Temoorarv. or Illegal Use: The casual, temporary, or illegal use
of any sign shall not be sufficient to establish the existence of a
nonconforming use or to create any rights in the continuance of such
use.
B. Modification to existinq nonconforminq siqns to meet compliance:
existing nonconforming signs may be modified in order to meet
compliance with Sec. 20A-19.1.8.. Modified signs will be subject to the
provisions in Sec. 20A-19.1.8..
C. Freestanding Sianaae:
Appendix A. Page 35
A"\
1. All freestanding signs shall be of a side -based monument style. Poles
may be used to support such a sing. The supporting structure shall be
visible for no more than two feet in height from grade. Base should be
constructed of substantial materials. Pole signs are permitted when the
supporting structures are completely screened from view with
landscaping or berth features.
2. Any freestanding signs constructed from Flat panel material such as high
density polyurethane, MDO, sheet metal, or the like, shall have a
distance of no less than 8" from face to face, and shall be enclosed on
all sides to cover internal frame.
D. Wall Signage:
1. The maximum vertical dimension of a facade or wall sign shall not
exceed 25% of the building height, not to exceed four (4) feet.
2. Awnings with lettering shall be considered a wall sign. Where lettering is
used on an awning, the area of lettering shall be included in the
percentage limitation of a project's sign area.
3. Wall signs (facade signs) are prohibited on roofs. Also see the LDC's
Section 20A -15.7.C.2.
E. Chanaeable Coov Siqns: Changeable copy signs shall be regulated under the
following guidelines. This Subsection shall not include electronic message
boards which are prohibited under Sec. 20A-19.1.8., except time -temperature -
date displays.
1. Freestandina Sians: changeable copy signs are prohibited except as
described herein below.
a. Changeable copy signs shall not comprise more than 25% of the
permitted sign area and shall be included as part of the permitted
sign area, except as described herein below.
b. Motor vehicle service stations and convenience stores with gas
pumps may utilize up to 100% of permitted sign area for
changeable prices of gasolines only (or as regulated by federal
law).
C. Movie theaters and other performance/entertainment facilities
may utilize up to 80% of permitted sign area for display of names
of films, plays or other performances currently showing. Such
changeable copy areas shall be included as part of the permitted
sign area.
d. Houses of worship may utilize up to 50% of permitted sign area
for changeable copy.
Appendix A. Page 36
e. Changeable copy signs shall be prohibited for office, industrial
and residential uses.
F. Illumination:
1. All external flood sign illumination shall be mounted at grade, directly in
front of the sign area.. Light source shall be completely shielded from
oncoming motorists view.
(Lexan®, Plexiglas®, and Pantone Matching System(D are all registered trademarks.)
Appendix A. Page 37
Appendix B.
/1 Preserving the Riverfront Character
V�
Comprehensive Plan Amendment
OBJECTIVE 1-3.3: ENCOURAGE REDEVELOPMENT AND RENEWAL
ss..s
The portion of the City along the Indian River has a unique history, style, and look
which the City seeks to preserve. By January, 1998, the City of Sebastian shall adopt
amended land development regulations for the riverfront area, including performance
standards which ensure that land development activities, resource conservation and
infrastructure issues are managed in a manner that will consider the needs of all the
citizens of Sebastian — youth, seniors, residents, businessmen, sportsmen, etc.;
develop a mixture of uses and a variety of opportunities for recreational, residential and
commercial uses; encourage progress while protecting property rights; protect the
environment while fostering compatible uses. The City shall maximize the use of what
already exists by protecting, restoring and enhancing the existing assets, including
historical structures, found in the riverfront area. It is the intention of the City to
preserve those things that brought our citizens to Sebastian. The City will preserve
riverfront access. River and ocean access is a treasure to be enjoyed by all of the
citizens of Sebastian.
•.a♦s
Policy 1-3.3.3: Riverfront District. The Riverfront District is described as that part of
the City of Sebastian located from the Florida East Coast Railroad east to and including
the Indian River Lagoon north of the city limits general located at the south section line
of section 6, township 31S, range 39E.
Policy 1-3.3.4: Waterfront Theme: The overall theme of the Riverfront District is an
"Old Florida Fishing Village." All City facilities and projects shall compliment that theme
in term of design. The City shall develop by January, 1998, procedures and
ordinances, including architectural standards, urban design standards, sign regulations
and landscape requirements, to implement the theme through the Land Development
Code in all development activities.
Appendix B. Pagel
Policy 1-3.3.5: Riverfront Mixed Use Designation (RMU). The Riverfront Mixed Used
designation is intended to provide a mixture of residential, commercial, recreational,
and institutional uses in the Riverfront District. The allowable residential uses are single
family, duplexes, multiple -family up to eight (8) units per acre, commercial resort
residential uses. Model homes and home occupations should be allowed as
conditional uses.
Community uses are child care services and facilities, marine related educational
institutions, cultural or civic activities, public protective and emergency services, places
of worship, public or not-for-profit administrative services, public and private utilities,
public parks and recreation. Nursing homes including rest homes and convalescent
homes should be permitted as a conditional use outside of the flood zone.
Commercial uses include business and professional offices, medical services, wet or
dry storage of boats, boat sales and rentals, marine power sales, marine fuel sales, bait
and tackle shops, restaurants (excluding drive-ins and fast food services), fish markets,
marine related specialty retail sales and service, marine accessory uses, farmer's
markets, yacht clubs, bars and lounges, waterfront general commercial activities, indoor
theaters and other enclosed commercial amusements, plant nurseries, hotels, motels,
transient quarters, and parking lots without a building on the lot.
Drive-ins and fast food services, vehicular service and
maintenance,
retail gasoline
sales,
veterinary services,
funeral homes, drive-through
facilities and
general retail
sales
and services should
be allowed as conditional uses. These uses would be
required to be located on a parcel adjacent to US1. Parking garages would be allowed
as a conditional use west of US 1.
Policy 1-3.3.6: Preserving Riverfront Access: River and ocean access is a treasure
to be enjoyed by all of the citizens of Sebastian. Access can be provided directly
through boat ramps, docks and piers. Access can also be provided visually through
walkways, control of exotic vegetation, open space, scenic easements, and
breezeways. The City shall develop by January, 1998, procedures and ordinances to
Appendix B. Page 2
�. protect and provide for access to the Riverfront District through the Land Development
Code.
The City by January, 1999, shall develop programs and identify funding sources to
acquire access to the Riverfront District.
Policy 1-3.3.7: Preservation of existing assets: The protection, restoration, and
enhancement of existing assets, including historical structures, is important in
implementing the "Old Florida Fishing Village" theme. The City shall develop by
January, 1998, procedures and ordinances to protect, encourage restoration and to
provide for enhancement of existing assets in the Riverfront District through the Land
Development Code.
The City by January, 1999, shall develop programs and identify funding sources to
protect, restore and enhance the historical structures in the Riverfront District.
Appendix B. Page 3
Appendix C.
RMU, Riverfront Mixed Use District
Zoning Amendment
Sec. 20A-X.X. RMU, Riverfront Mixed Use District.
A. Purpose and intent. The RMU district is established to implement
comprehensive plan policies for proving a mix of uses in the riverfront
district. The district is intended to preserve the existing character of the
riverfront area. The existing assets, including historical structures shall
be protected, preserved and enhanced. The zoning district is intended
to provide for a mixture of uses and a variety of opportunities for
recreational, residential and commercial uses while protecting the
environment.
B. Permitted uses. In this district as a permitted use a building or premises
may be used only for the below stated uses. All applicable provisions of
^ this code shall be satisfied.
s
Permitted uses: single family, duplexes, multiple -family up to eight (8)
units per acre, commercial resort residential, child care services and
facilities, marine related educational institutions, cultural or civic
activities, public protective and emergency services, places of worship,
public or not-for-profit administrative services, public and private utilities,
public parks and recreation, business and professional offices, medical
services, wet or dry storage of boats, boat sales and rentals, marine
power sales, marine fuel sales, bait and tackle shops, restaurants
(excluding drive-ins and fast food services), fish markets, marine related
specialty retail sales and service, marine accessory uses, farmer's
markets, yacht clubs, bars and lounges, waterfront general commercial
activities, indoor theaters and other enclosed commercial amusements,
plant nurseries, hotels, motels, transient quarters, and parking lots
without a building on the lot.
Appendix C. Page 1
�. C. Conditional uses. In the district, as a conditional use, a building or
premises may be used for only the following conditional uses upon
compliance with applicable conditions stated in article VI of the Land
Development Code and all other applicable provisions of this code,
including site plan review and performance criteria. The planning and
zoning commission shall ascertain if such conditions are satisfied.
Appeals of such decisions shall be heard by the city council.
Conditional uses: Home occupations, model homes, Nursing homes
including rest homes and convalescent homes, Drive-ins and fast food
services, vehicular service and maintenance, retail gasoline sales,
veterinary services, funeral homes, drive-through facilities, general retail
sales and services and parking garages.
D. Size and dimension criteria. The following are the minimum size and
dimension criteria for lots within this district. For lots located in the
Riverfront Overlay District (Sec. 20A-19.1) the additional requirements
of the overlay district shall be complied with:
1. Minimum lot size: None; except 10,000 square feet for new
subdivisions approved subsequent to the adoption of this
ordinance.
2. Minimum lot width: None; except 60 feet for new subdivisions
approved subsequent to the adoption of this ordinance.
3. Minimum lot depth: None; except 60 feet along the Indian River
waterfront and 100 feet on inland properties for new
subdivisions approved subsequent to the adoption of this
ordinance.
4. Maximum building height: 25 feet east of Indian River Drive and
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35 feet west of Indian River Drive.
Appendix C. Page 2
1.
5. Minimum living area: The minimum Floor area required,
exclusive of porches, terraces, attached garages, carport or
unroofed areas, shall be one thousand two hundred (1,000)
square feet. Every single-family dwelling unit shall be required
to provide a garage or carport. If a carport or similar unenclosed
vehicle storage structure is provided, then the principal structure
shall contain a fully -enclosed utility storage area of at least sixty
(60) square feet, which shall be designed as an integral part of
the principal structure. If a fully -enclosed garage is provided,
then no utility structure shall be mandated. The garage or
carport shall have a minimum interior clear dimension of ten (10)
feet by twenty (20) feet.
Duplex: 750 square feet per unit; efficiencies: 600 square feet
per unit; one bedroom units: 700 square feet; two bedroom
units: 850 square feet; three bedroom units: 1,000 square feet;
and each additional bedroom: add 100 square feet per bedroom
addition
6. Minimum building setbacks from property lines:
(a) Front yard: 0 feet
(b) Side yard: 10 feet between non-residential
uses, 15 feet between residential and non-
residential uses.
(c) Rear yard: 15 feet
7. Maximum building coverage: 50 percent
8. Minimum green area: 25 percent for non-residential
development and at least Fifty (50) percent for residential
Appendix C. Page 3
E. Development shall comply with the design standards for the Riverfront
District, Sec. 20A-19.1.
Appendix C. Page 4