04-18-2016 Planning Commission Packet

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#�s-3s�5 ° 14 April 2016 Page 2 of 2 excluding the basement/divided by the total square footage of the lot. FAR shall not exceed X on lots less than 2 acres in size. FAR+setbacks+ hardcover+graduated setback? Atternatively to address visual massing on narrow lots, the addition of a graduated setback requirement for the topmost story or the portions of the structure above X feet from existing grade may be beneficial for limiting the effects of massing on narrow lots: Eg. The third level above the basement shall be set back X feet from the outermost wall below it. (On all sides? Setback from property lines?) During the work session staff and Planning Commission discussed establishment of FAR limits as well as simpfifying the existing regulations to remove the half story limitation. Two different possible solutions were discussed as follows: Option 1: • Remove the number of stories limitation. • Keep height limitation as it is currently calculated at 30'. • Keep 15% structural footprint maximum (for lots under 2.0 acres). • Add a graduated setback. Question: What is the appropriate graduated setback? Option 2: • Remove the number of stories limitation. • Keep height limitation as it is currently calculated at 30'. • Remove 15%structural footprint maximum. • Establish a Floor Area Ratio limit for principal buildings. Questions: How should attics or areas beneath a roof structure be addressed? What is the appropriate FAR? Planning Staff Recommendation The Planning Commission is asked to open the public hearing, receive feedback, and then discuss the two options. The application should be tabled after direction is given to staff. A draft ordinance will be prepared for review at the May meeting. We solicited comments from a small group of builders active in Orono on the proposed options; received feedback is attached as Exhibit B.