§ 5.3. General subdivision design.

The following principles shall guide the design and layout of proposed subdivisions in the county.

5.3.1.

Subdivisions should be designed to protect and maintain existing natural features on the site, including existing terrain, drainageways, stands of trees, and other elements. Where possible, existing trees and other vegetated areas should be utilized to satisfy landscaping and buffering requirements. Naturally occurring drainage paths should be maintained and utilized to the extent possible.

1.

No lot shall be designed, approved or employed for use in which an area more than thirty (30) percent of the prescribed minimum lot area is comprised of one (1) or more of the environmentally sensitive areas referenced in the net developable calculations of the zoning ordinance. This shall not apply to lots specifically created exclusively to preserve and maintain environmentally sensitive areas, as approved by the zoning administrator.

5.3.2.

Additional open spaces suitable for passive and active recreational use should be reserved where possible.

5.3.3.

Streets and lots should be laid out to provide a coordinated and efficient use of land and minimize the need for costly expansion of the external roadway system outside of the subdivision. This may include providing an interconnected network of streets within the subdivision and providing both roadway and pedestrian connections to adjacent compatible developments.

5.3.4.

Construction of the subdivision should be undertaken in a manner that minimizes the clear cutting and mass grading of land.

5.3.5.

No singular subdivision shall extend over a political boundary.