§ 62-1462. Same—Purpose and intent.

(a)

The residential planned unit development (RPUD) is a concept which encourages and permits variation in development by allowing deviation in lot size, bulk or type of dwellings, density, lot coverage and open space from that required in any one residential zoning classification under this article. The purpose of a RPUD is to encourage the development of planned residential neighborhoods and communities that are below state and local level DRI (F.S. Chapter 380) threshold requirements and provide a full range of residence types, as well as secondary neighborhood commercial and institutional land uses. It is recognized that only through ingenuity, imagination and flexibility can residential developments be produced which are in keeping with the intent of this subdivision while departing from the strict application of conventional use and dimension requirements of other zoning districts and article VII of this chapter, pertaining to subdivisions.

(b)

This subdivision is intended to establish procedures and standards for residential planned unit developments within the unincorporated areas of the county, in order that the following objectives may be attained:

(1)

The clustering of significant areas of usable open spaces for recreation, agriculture, and the preservation of natural amenities, including threatened and endangered plant and animal species.

(2)

Flexibility to protect and to design with, and around, native upland and wetland habitats, native vegetation, farmlands and associated structures, historical features, and other unique features in a open space or greenways concept.

(3)

Creation of housing types and compatible neighborhood arrangements that give the home buyer or residents greater choice in selecting types of environment and living units.

(4)

Allowance of sufficient freedom for the developer to take a creative approach to the use of land and related physical development, as well as utilizing innovative techniques to enhance the visual and natural character of the county.

(5)

Efficient use of land that is intended to result in smaller street and utility networks, lessen impervious surface coverage resulting in reduced amounts of stormwater runoff, reduced development and long term future infrastructure maintenance and renovation costs.

(6)

Establishment of criteria for the inclusion of compatible associated uses to complement the residential areas within the planned unit development.

(7)

Simplification of the procedure for obtaining approval of proposed developments by the county for proposed land use, site considerations, lot and setback considerations, public needs and requirements, and health and safety factors.

(8)

The integration of continuous and physically linked sidewalks, walkways, bicycle paths and lanes, and multi-purpose trails into the transportation system to provide safe alternative modes and corridors of transportation internal to the site and externally to it's perimeter.

(9)

Potential utilization as a post-disaster review mechanism for reconstruction or redevelopment of residential and neighborhood commercial areas damaged or destroyed by manmade or natural disasters.

(Ord. No. 2000-61, § 3, 12-7-00)