INC NEWS - UDO and impervious surfaces

[Pat Carstensen]

The UDO is pretty explicit about what can be used as a driveway int the FRONT yard, but doesn't deal with back yard.  This is clearly an issue.  

I think the logic was that neighbors wouldn't see the back yard, so it shouldn't be part of the code.  We overlooked the issues like
(1) run-off
(2) appearance to side and back neighbors

I would suggest a new clause that 
(1) limits % of impervious surface (which would also limit things like swimming pools)
(2) require screening around areas that park more than X cars
(3) If something close to the permitted amount of impervious surfaces is done, it must be surrounded by stuff that absorbs water (Mangum terraces, water gardens, trees) -- I don't know that we know any good best practices short of little ponds, but we should be figuring that out.

Hope this helps, regards, pat

10.2.3 Vehicle Parking Permitted in Residential Districts and Uses
Other than townhouses and apartments, residential uses may only utilize designated driveways
within any yard area between the primary structure and the street for
parking. Driveways shall be surfaced with an all-weather material with
edges clearly delineated and, within the area between the primary
structure and the street, shall not exceed 25 feet in width unless
wider driveways are shown on an approved site plan
or plot plan. Except for driveways, no additional curb cuts or vehicle
access points shall be permitted. Parked vehicles shall not block
pedestrian walkways There is footnote on a table on design standards:
3 Building coverage may be further restricted by the impervious surface requirements of Sec. 3087B, Impervious Surface Limits. 

(This may only apply in select watersheds?  I have no clue what 3087B is....)


> Date: Sat, 19 Apr 2008 08:39:08 -0400
> From: bragin at nc.rr.com
> To: inc-list at durhaminc.org; inc-list at rtpnet.org
> Subject: INC NEWS - UDO and impervious surfaces
> 
> I've been told by Planning Dep't. and Inspections Dep't. staffers that 
> the Durham UDO does not address the issue of impervious surfaces on 
> existing residential lots. In other words, there is no ordinance that 
> would prevent you from turning your entire back yard into a paved 
> parking lot.
> 
> I know there are people on this list much more conversant with the UDO 
> than I am. Can anyone confirm this for me?
> 
> Thanks,
> Barry Ragin
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