Listed below are some of the most frequently asked questions about the Proposed Design Standards for New Construction in Plat A
Q. What are “Design Standards” and how do they differ from zoning ordinances.
A. Zoning ordinances typically include basic development standards that require a building be setback a certain distance from the street, property lines and other buildings along with limiting the maximum height of the building. Zoning also addresses what types of uses are allowed, such as single-family homes, apartments, etc. Design standards focus on how the building fits into a neighborhood. This typically includes consideration of architectural style and other features that have defined a neighborhood for decades, such as building materials, the height of the home, and architectural detailing. Some Utah examples of communities with design standards for historic areas include Logan, Murray, Ogden and Salt Lake City.
Q. When was final action taken on the proposed design standards?
A. The City Council considered these standards at their scheduled meeting on Tuesday, May 20, 2008. Agenda and Minutes
Q. Why were design standards proposed for Plat A in Springville?
A. Over the past few years, there has been a concerted effort by many of the resident-owners in Plat A to try to stabilize the area and appropriately recognize the historic significance of this part of our community. One of the concerns was that new construction complement or ‘fit in’ with what already exists. This fit includes consideration of the style, height and materials used on the house.
Q. How do the design standard affect me?
A. If you are building a new house or adding on to an existing one, you would be required to meet the standards.
Q. Will these design standards control what color I can paint my house?
A. No.
Q. What types of building materials were used historically?
A. Depending on the date of construction and architectural style, different types of materials were used. The most common materials found in Plat A include brick, wood siding and stucco. The proposed standards include those materials, along with newer materials such as fiber cement and wood composite siding as alternatives to wood siding. Other types of siding materials are included for rear additions to existing structures.
Q. Will this require a special permit whenever I do something on the exterior of my house, like installing new windows?
A. As currently written, only new construction would be affected by the standards.
Q.If I do want to make an addition to my house or build new on my lot, how long will the review take for approval?
A. It will be reviewed as part of your building plan check.
Q. What if I want to tear down the existing house on my lot and build a new house?
A. While preservation of existing buildings is generally encouraged, the design standards would not stop you from demolishing the existing house and building new. It would generally be advantageous to look at tax benefits or other incentives that may be available for preserving the existing home.
Q. Is the City going to provide any help for property owners to meet these new requirements?
A. The City Council and Planning Commission have discussed a range of incentives to try to encourage preservation of historic houses and help ensure that new construction meets the standards. These include everything from subsidizing design assistance for houses to reduced impact fees for electrical power upgrades. Additionally, the City has also discussed its intent to improve existing roadways with curb, gutter and sidewalks along with the installation of historic street lighting in the area. Please call for more information.
Q. Who should I call with questions?
A. Please call the Community Development department at (801) 491-7861.