The term PUD is used to refer to both the Planned Unit Development Overlay (zoning) and the plans for developing a site in such an overlay district. Plans must be written in accordance with the requirements of the PUD Chapter in the Norwood Zoning Code, Chapter 1155.
It is the stated intent of the PUD chapter of the Norwood Zoning Code to “accommodate creative and imaginative Planned Unit Developments” and to allow for “a variety of architectural designs, structural techniques and types of structures.” Further, the PUD overlay gives the Planning Commission the power to “permit the flexible spacing of lots and buildings.”
The PUD chapter is designed to encourage the clustering of buildings in order to preserve natural features and leave room for common greenspace and, in residential PUDs, shared community facilities. Under other zoning district requirements, lot sizes and setbacks are standardized. Also, the PUD overlay allows for mixed use projects which can include commercial and residential uses. Many zoning districts require strict separation of uses. Therefore, without the PUD overlay, many creative projects would require a number of variances, if they could be accomplished at all.
To accomplish the overall goals of the PUD chapter, certain requirements are spelled out. The Planning Commission may require that utilities be located underground, improving the aesthetic quality of the development. Walkways must be designed so that they separate and protect pedestrian traffic from vehicular traffic. And, in residential PUDs, a minimum of 25% of the area is required to be maintained as open space or recreational facilities. Open space may also be required in non-residential PUDs.
The PUD process also includes public hearings and public notification beyond what is required for a project carried out under standard zoning. If a project meets standard zoning requirements, no public hearing is required. It is only when a variance is needed that one public hearing is scheduled before the Board of Zoning Appeals.
In contrast, as part of the PUD process, at least two public hearings will be held. First, the Planning Commission must hold a public hearing, providing both general public notice and individual notices to property owners within 200 feet of the project site. Following this hearing, the Planning Commission makes a recommendation to City Council, and City Council then holds a public hearing, also making notification to the City overall and property owners within 200 feet. If the project is complex, the developer will probably file separate preliminary and final plans. In such cases, the Planning Commission and City Council must each hold an additional public hearing.
The PUD, therefore, benefits both the City
and the developer. The City gains additional control over the project design
and public input is provided for. The developer can be more creative, designing
a mixed use project, for example. The City and the developer work together
to design a project which benefits the community overall.