HomeMy WebLinkAboutOrdinances 23-09-541 - 09/06/2023 - RZ23-05 Amend Chapter 64 - RETAINING WALLSSTATE OF GEORGIA
COUNTY OF FULTON
ORDINANCE NO. J3-09-5'//
RZ23-05
AN ORDINANCE TO AMEND CHAPTER 64, (CHAPTER 64 OF THE CITY CODE)
AS IT RELATES TO RETAINING WALLS
BE IT ORDAINED by the City Council of the City of Milton, GA while in a regularly ca ll ed
council meeting on September 6, 2023 , at 6:00 p.m. as follows :
SECTION 1. That the amended zoning ordinance as it relates to retaining
walls is hereby adopted and approved; and is attached hereto as if fu ll y se t
forth therein; and
SECTION 2. All ordinances, parts of ordinances, or regulations in conflict
herewith are repealed; and
SECTION 3. That this Ordinance shall become effective upon its adoption.
ORDAINED this the 6th day of September 2023.
Sec. 64-1. Definitions.
Wing wall means a wall that extends from an exter ior building wa ll and is architect1::1rall y structurally integrated
into the design of the building to which it is attached .
Article VII -Overlay District Authority, Division 5 -State Route 9 Overlay District
Sec. 64-1092. Screening and fencing.
(a) If visible from a public right -of-way or adjacent residential use , rear or side parking and loading areas shall be
screened from view by one of the following methods : placement behind the building, 100 percent opaque
fencing, or vegetative screen planted to buffer standards .
(b) Where a park ing lot, parking st ructure or gas fueling bay fronts directly on a public street, a continuous
screen of evergreen plantings shall be provided. Said screen shall be three feet in height at planting and four
feet minimum height at maturity and three feet to eight feet in width at maturity.
(c) Retaining walls shall be constructed as requ i red by Sec . 64-2403 .ee faced with or constrncted of stone, erick ,
or decorati>,e concrete mod1::1lar elock only. If any retaining wall eq1::1als or eHceeds three feet in height, a
contin1::101::1s evergreen 13lanting shall ee a1313ro 1,ed ey the city areorist .
(d) Refuse collection areas and re ceptacles shall be placed in the least visible location from public streets and
shall be enclosed on three sides with opaque walls . The fourth side shall be a self-closing gate made from
noncombustible materials . Opaque walls shall be a minimum of 12 inches higher than the receptacle . Wall
materials shall be noncombustible brick or stone . Refuse receptacles shall not be placed w ithin 50 feet of an
existing residential or AG -1 (agricultural) property line .
(e) Accessory site features located on the ground shall be screened from view from any publ ic right-of-way or
any residential use by one or a combination of the following : placement behind the build i ng, 100 percent
opaque fencing, or vegetative screen planted to buffer standards . Where walls or fences are used in lieu of
planted screens , landscape materials shall be i ncorporated into the screen i ng scheme .
(f) Accessory site features are proh i bited in the front yard or in any yard adjacent to a street .
(g) Accessory site features on a roof shall be screened from the view of public and private streets by a parapet
or other architectural feature or as approved by the community development director .
(h) Flat roofs shall be screened from the view of public and private streets by a parapet.
(i) Along public streets , fencing materials shall be primarily dark stained wood and could include accents of
natural or man -made stone, brick, alum inum , ornamental or decorative wrought i ron or architectural
concrete . Pictured below are examples that are in keeping with the equestrian and rural character of M i lton .
Unpainted and unstained pressure treated wood is prohibited.
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U) Fences and posts adjacent to a public street shall not exceed ~ 60 inches in height measured from finished
grade. When located on a commercial site, required fences shall also include a minimum three-foot-wide
landscaped strip on the exterior of the fencing . This landscaped strip may be included within any required
landscape strip per subsection 64-1090(a).
(k) Chainlink fencing may be used along golf courses, play fields, and other recreational areas . All chainlink
fencing shall be black or hunter green vinyl coated. Exception: chainlink fencing shall not be allowed if
fencing can be seen during any month of the year from the following streets : Windward Parkway, Deerfield
Parkway, Cogburn Road, State Route 9, Webb Road, Morris Road, and Bethany Bend.
(I) When required, fencing material around detention/retention facilities shall meet the fencing requirements
as specified by subsection 64 -1092(i) or as approved by the community development director.
(m) Painted chainlink fences are prohibited .
(n) Opaque fences are only permitted in side and rear yards not adjoining any roadways.
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Article VII, Division 6, Rural Milton Overlay Zoning District
Sec. 64-1141. Single-family type uses.
(a) Landscaping .
(1) Clear cutting is prohibited, however, land clearing, timber harvesting, tree farming and agricultural
clearing may be allowed within the context of a development clearing permit.
(2) No removal of protected trees (chapter 60, article II) is permitted on the site prior to the issuance of a
land disturbance permit, building permit, development clearing permit, or tree removal permit.
(b) Stormwater management facilities .
(1) All facilities shall be in compliance with the Stormwater Management Manual (chapter 20, article IV of
the City Code).
(2) All facilities shall be designed to create a natural look .
(3) Stormwater better site designs and nonstructural stormwater management practices shall be required
unless allowed by the director of public works .
(4) All detention facilities shall have a minimum ten-foot-wide landscape strip planted to buffer standards
with evergreen plantings exterior to any required fence and/or required access area .
(5) Detention facilities shall be located in the least conspicuous area of the site as engineering standards
will allow .
(6) The creat ion of shared stormwater management facilities are encouraged .
(c) Height.
(1) There shall be a maximum height limi t of two stories with the maximum he ight of 28 feet from average
finished grade to the bottom of the roof eave.
(2) Notwithstanding the height limit in subparagraph (1) above, the maximum height may be increased in
an amount based on the calculations shown as examp les in Table 1; however, in no event shall the
height be increased more than eight feet pursuant to this subsection (2).
Table 1-Examples of Increased Height
Building Type Drop in Grade Credit Maximum Wall Height
(Feet) (Feet) (Grade to Soffit in Feet)
Slab House O' O' 28'
Basement House: 10' 5' 28' + 5' = 33 '
50% Exposed
Basement House : 10' 7.5' 28' + 7.5" = 35 .5'
25% Exposed
Basement House : 15' 7.5' 28 ' + 7.5' = 35.5'
50% Exposed
(d) lot coverage.
(1) Lot coverage for each individual lot zoned AG -1, R-1, R-2 and CUP shall not exceed :
a. 25 percent for lots that front on private streets; and
b. 20 percent for lots that front on public streets .
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(2) Lots that are both (a) located within the Birmingham Crossroads Overlay District and (b) not zoned AG -
1 are exempt from the lot coverage requirements of subsection (d)(l) above.
(el Prohibited building components.
(1) The following building components shall be prohibited : metal gates, burglar bars, chain link fence,
metal roll down curtains .
(f) Retaining walls .
(1) Retaining walls shall be constructed as required by Sec . 64 -2403. of block or poured concrete with
natural stone ,.,eneer or solid stucco and 13rick only. lh•iewed from the street, walls shall pro,,ide a 360
degree veneer as described al3ove. Retaining walls above three feet high shall have a continuous
planting of evergreens or as approved by the city arborist.
Sec. 64-1142. Requirements for commercial and non-single-family type uses.
(a) Landscaping . On property with commercial or non -single-family type uses, thereon, landscaping should be
compatible in form, style and design with the natural setting and informal landscaping present in the area
and on the site before development . Landscaping should also be used as a buffer to screen a development
from adjacent residential and agricultural uses . In addition , such property shall comply with the following :
(1) Streetscape and landscape strips.
a. All properties shall provide a minimum ten-foot-wide strip along all public streets. The ten -foot-
wide strip shall be planted with a minimum two and one-half inches to three inches caliper
hardwood over-story. Additional over-story trees are encouraged. The ten -foot-wide strip may be
developed either (see subsection (b)(2) for additional landscape and screening requirements):
1. With hardscape elements such as plazas, planters, benches, fountains and tables in
addition to the required hardwood trees; or
2. With landscape elements consisting of 60 percent coverage in trees and shrubs and 40
percent coverage in grass and ground cover pursuant to this zoning ordinance, and the city
tree protection ordinance (chapter 60); or
3. With a combination of both landscape and hardscape elements .
b. Cluster planting is encouraged, however at a minimum, trees shall be planted in the center of the
landscape strip at a maximum distance of every 20 feet on average. Street trees are required to
be planted at one per 30 feet. They may be planted in clusters per the city arborist .
c. Specimen trees, as described in the city tree protection ordinance (chapter 60), located within
the minimum front yard shall be preserved .
d. A strip shall be planted with grass or sod between the back of curb or swale and the sidewalk or
the Milton Trail per the applicable city code .
(2) Parking lot landscape islands .
a. There shall be a minimum ten -foot-wide landscape island at the end of each parking bay .
b. There shall be a ten -foot-wide landscape island for every 72 feet of double row length or 90 feet
of single row length of parking spaces .
c. Landscape islands shall include one over-story shade tree per 180 square feet of landscape island
area.
d. Location of interior landscape islands shall vary from row to row to avoid a grid pattern and
rectilinear layout .
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(3) Landscape buffers .
a. For sites on four acres or less, a SO -foot-wide undisturbed buffer or alternative screening des ign,
w ith a ten-foot improvement setback, shall be located adjacent to all AG-1 zoning districts and all
property zoned, used, or developed for residential uses.
b. For sites on more than four acres, a 75 -foot-wide undisturbed buffer or alternative screening
design, with a ten-foot improvement setback, shall be located adjacent to all AG-1 zoning
districts and all property zoned, used, or developed for resident ial uses.
c. To make buffers seem natural, an equal mix of three species shall be used .
(4) Property owners are encouraged to develop a green space for recreation and public enjoyment.
(5) Clear cutting is prohibited, however, land clearing, timber harvesting, tree farming and agricultural
clearing may be allowed within the context of a development clearing permit.
(6) No removal of protected trees (chapter 60 , article II) is permitted on the site prior to the issuance of a
land disturbance permit, building permit, development clearing perm it, or tree removal permit.
(b) Screening and fencing. Landscaping and fencing materials on property with commercial or non-single-family
uses thereon, should be used to minimize visual and noise impact of parking, loading areas, detention ponds,
stormwater management facilities, and accessory site features as set forth herein .
(1) All loading spaces shall be screened from view of any public street by either :
a. A 15-foot-wide landscape strip planted with a continuous hedge of evergreen shrubs; or
b. Incorporated into the principal building .
Shrubs shall be moderately growing, be a minimum height of three and one-half to four feet at t i me of
planting, and reach a height of six feet within two years of planting.
(2) All parking lots shall be screened from view of any public street by a 15-foot-wide landscape strip
planted to buffer standards .
Plants shall be a minimum height of three and one -half to four feet at time of planting, and such plants
shall reach a height of six feet within two years of planting (see subsection (a)(l)) for additional
landscape and screening requirements).
(3) Refuse areas (dumpsters) shall be placed in the least visible location from public streets, and shall be
enclosed pursuant to rules of the Fulton County Health Department. Enclosures must be constructed of
the same exterior wall material used for the bu i lding. The enclosure shall be a foot higher than what is
contained in the interior. The door enclosing the refuse area shall be constructed out of an opaque
non-combustible material and appearance must be consistent with the prevailing architecture.
(4) Accessory site features, as defined in each zoning district of this zoning ordinance, shall be placed in
the least visible location from public streets, and shall be screened from view of any right-of-way or
any property zoned, used, or developed for residential uses , including the AG-1 zoning district, by one
of the following means :
a. Placement behind the princi ple building; or
b. Erection of a 100-percent opaque fencing, around the entire accessory structure which must be
constructed of the same type of exterior material used for the building; or
c. By a vegetative screening, which shall consist of evergreen shrubs, be three and one-half to four
feet at time of planting, and reach a height of six feet within two years of planting .
(5) Drive-throughs are prohibited .
( c) Storm water management facilities.
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(1) All facilities shall be in compliance with the stormwater management manual (chapter 20, article IV of
the City Code).
(2) All facilities shall be designed to create a natural look.
(3) Stormwater better site designs and nonstructural stormwater management practices shall be used
whenever possible .
(4) All detention facilities shall have a minimum ten -foot-wide landscape strip planted to buffer standards
with evergreen plantings exterior to any required fence and/or required access area .
(5) Detention facilities shall be located in the least conspicuous area of the site as engineering standards
will allow.
(6) The creation of shared stormwater management facilities is encouraged .
(d) Fencing and height.
(1) Fences shall be constructed as required by Sec . 64-417 . In >yards adjacent to an ei<terior street an
eq1:1estrian fence is req1:1ired .
(2) l=ences in yards adjacent to an e1<terior street shall not e1<ceed eO inches frorn finished grade .
f3till Retaining walls shall be constructed as r equired by Sec . 64 -2403. of block or po1:1red concrete with
nat1:1ral stone ¥eneer or solid st1:1cco and brick only. If ·,iewed frorn the street, walls shall pro¥ide a ~eQ
degree ¥eneer as described abo·.«e. Retaining walls abo¥e three feet high shall ha¥e a contin1:101:1s
planting of evergreens .
f4t~ Opaque fences are prohibited in yards adjacent to a public street except as set forth i n subsections
(b)(4) a~ and (b )(4) b of this section .
(e) Pedestrian safety. Construction of sidewalks and pedestrian amenities on property with commercial or non-
single-family uses thereon should encourage and promote walking to a development and within a
development. The placement of sidewalks , pedestrian amenities, and the Milton Trail (see chapter 48, article
VIII of the City Code) should contribute to the sense of place of the community. Sidewalks shall be
constructed along public road frontages and at least a five -foot landscape strip shall be planted between the
roadway or curb and the sidewalk or the Milton Trail, whichever applies . The sidewalk shall be set back from
the back of curb the maximum distance allowable within the right-of-way .
(1) Mandatory requirements ; pedestrian path design standards .
a. Proposed developments shall have a pedestrian network.
b. Paths shall comply with any applicable Americans with Disabilities Act standards for slope, width,
texture, level differences, and ramps .
c. Paths shall be a minimum of five feet in width .
d . Paths shall be clearly identified through painting, signage and texture change .
e. In order to facilitate travel, paths shall not be obstructed by any object or structure.
f. Paths shall be designed to minimize direct auto-pedestrian interaction .
g. Paths shall be connected to signalized crosswalks, where applicable.
h. Paths shall be a direct and convenient route between points of origin (i.e., bus stop) and
destination (i.e., shop, bank, etc .) with the following exception : sidewalks and paths may
meander to protect and maintain mature trees and other permitted landscape features .
Meandering sidewalks are discouraged .
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i. Internal walkways (paths) shall be constructed connecting the public sidewalk along the street to
the main entrance of the principal use of the property.
j. Pedestrian paths shall be colored and/or textured walkways or sidewalks.
(2) Encouraged elements; pedestrian paths and public spaces.
a. To increase safety, grade separation is encouraged between pedestrian paths and motor vehicle
access areas.
b. Paths are encouraged to be built alongside interesting and inviting features . Street furniture is
encouraged to be located adjacent to any path . Street furniture includes, but is not limited to,
benches, pedestrian scale lighting, trash receptacles, dog rubbish receptacles, and ganged
mai l boxes .
c. Community public spaces that promote gathering and have a park like design with streetscape
and hardscape elements are encouraged .
d. Paths are allowed to perpendicularly cross landscape strips .
e. Granite curbing is preferred over other types of curbing .
(f) Site lighting for parking lots, pedestrian paths and public entrances. Lighting on property with commercial or
non-single-family uses thereon should be compatible with the rural and historic setting of Milton. Lighting
should be minimal while at the same time ample enough for safety and night viewing and be in compliance
with the night sky illumination (chapter 64 , article II, division 7).
(1) Parking lot lighting shall meet the following minimum standards :
a. Light poles shall not exceed a height of 20 feet from finished grade .
b. Light poles shall not be allowed in tree islands .
c. Bases of light poles shall be compatible with the design of the primary building.
d. Parking lot light fixtures shall have the light cut off below 90 degrees and the beam shall be cut
off at 75 degrees .
e. Light pole arm styles shall be either Shepherd 's Crook or Acorn .
(2) Pedestrian lighting shall meet the follow i ng minimum standards :
a. Light poles shall not exceed a height of 15 feet from finished grade.
b . Light pole styles shall be either Shepard's Crook or Acorn .
(3) Light poles shall include a taper, either in their transition downward from post to decorative shaft
(base), or upward to ballast housing, or both.
(4) Shoe box and cobra styles are prohibited for light poles .
(5) Building-mounted lighting fixtures shall have a 45 -degree light cutoff.
(6) All exterior lighting in publicly accessible locations shall be architecturally decorative with a historic
style .
(7) Neon lighting is prohibited .
(8) Light housings and posts shall be a dark color/material and be nonreflective .
(9) Exterior lighting shall not exceed two-foot candles.
(g) Building size, orientation, setback, height, scale and parking. The design and layout of a commercial or non-
single-family development should build upon and complement the design of crossroads communities as
opposed to creating a new one . The size, orientation , setback and scale of buildings are integral elements of
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crossroads communities . A building's orientation and placement should complement and relate to adjacent
buildings , structures and properties . The placement of buildings should create an informal grouping and
relationship between them as opposed to being orderly and uniform . The location of a building should ta ke
into consideration its rural surrounding and take advantage of this by maintaining open views and spaces .
Bu i ldings should be in proportion, in scale and characteristic to their rural and natural setting. The building
design and material should contribute to the style and feeling of its rural surrounding . The visual impact of
parking should be minimized by placing it to the rear and by screening . Accessory structures such as
outparcel buildings, accessory structures, fences and walls shall have architectural features and exterior
materials consistent with the principal build i ng and are not required to meet the requirements except for
height listed in subsect ion (f). All structures shall be subject to review by the city architect prior to design
review board submittal. Such developments shall comply with the following.
{1) Building size.
a. On a development of four acres or less, the maximum building size shall be 20,000 square feet. If
two or more buildings are built, the total size of all buildings shall not exceed 25,000 square feet,
no single one of which shall exceed 15,000 square feet .
b. On developments larger than four acres, the maximum building size shall be 25,000 square feet .
c. A group of two or more buildings that share at least one contiguous wall will be considered as
one building.
(2) Orientation.
a. Build i ngs shall be oriented to a public street. An entrance to a building should be located on the
side of the building facing a public street .
b. Accessory structures shall be located so as to be least visible from a public street posit ion and
shall conform to the setbacks for the district standards.
c. Driveways shall be perpendicular to the street .
(3) Setbacks .
a. For all property and lots located adjacent to public rights-of-way and 400 feet or less from an
intersection, buildings except for accessory structures shall be set back no more than 20 feet
from the edge of the required landscape strip or easements . This 20-foot front yard area may be
developed with a combination of landscape and hardscape elements, such as plazas, fountains,
benches, and tables. Additional shade tree plantings are encouraged within public gathering
places and alongside pedestrian paths . Buildings shall have varying setbacks to create the
informal crossroads community setting.
b. For all property and lots located adjacent to public rights-of-way and more than 400 feet from an
intersection, buildings except for accessory structures shall be set back no more than 30 feet
from the edge of the required landscape strip or easements. Th is 30-foot front yard area may be
developed with a combination of landscaping and hardscape elements, such as plazas, fountains,
benches, and tables . Additional shade tree plant i ngs are encouraged within public gathering
places and alongside pedestrian paths .
c. Buildings within a development shall have a m inimum 20 -foot separation between buildings. This
area shall be developed as greenspace or with a combination of hardscape and landscaping .
d . If a building in a development cannot front a public st r eet and meet the requirements of this
article because other buildings are located there and no more space is available along the public
street, then the building can front on an internal street in the development . The standards i n this
article regulating a building's position and relation to the street apply to a building fronting an
internal street. The internal streets will also have to meet the standards specified for the public
right-of-way, including landscape and st r eetscape requirements .
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(4) Height.
a. Maximum building height shall be two stories with the maximum height of 30 feet from average
finished grade to the bottom of the roof eave .
(5) Scale. For every 80 feet of building length on a single face, there shall be variation in the exterior or as
approved by the city architect accompl ished through the follow i ng means:
a. For each 80 feet of building exterior wall , the bu i lding exterior and roof shall be offset by a
minimum of ten feet. Overhangs and roof lines shall follow the building 's locat ion.
b. For each 80 feet of building exterior wall , there shall be a change in details, or patterns or
materials .
(6) Parking .
a. Parking shall be shared among users within a common development. Parking shall be reduced
according to the shared parking standards established i n section 64-1411 . Additional reduction in
the number of parking spaces is encouraged.
b. All parking spaces built in excess of the mi ni mum number required by the city zoning ordinance ,
shall be constructed of pervious materia l.
c. No on -site parking shall be located to the front of a building or between a bu il ding and the public
right-of-way (see section 64 -1141(b)(l)) regarding landscaping if parking is in v iew from the ri ght-
of-way). Parking shall be located adjacent to internal streets , not a public right-of-way .
d . If an internal street is developed for use by the general public, one row of parallel or diagona l
parking is allowed between the street and the curb .
(h) Building and other structure design. Construct ion of buildings in styles and types not found in Milton shall be
avoided. Modern style using traditional elements and the r einterpretation of a style rather than the
mimicking of a style is encouraged . Exaggerated or excessive ly large or small architectural elements shou ld
be avoided. Elements should be in proportion with the overall building . In addition, buildings should reflect a
specific style and not mix elements of different styles . The design and architectural elements of the build ings
should be compatible to those of the area . In Milton, commercial buildings are built at the intersect ions of
two major roads in a pattern of rural development called "crossroads commun ities ." Residences are
constructed at the edge of these crossroads commun ities . The overlay district seeks to rep li cate this pattern
by having future nonresidential construction , built w ithin 400 feet from the edge of the r ight-of-way of an
intersection, include elements of the historic commercial buildings, and nonresidential bu ildings, constructed
over 400 feet from the edge of right-of-way of an intersection, include elements of the historic resident ial
bu i ldings . Accessory structures such as outparcel bu il di ngs , accessory structures, fences and walls shall have
architectural features and exterior materials consistent w ith the princ i pal building and are not required t o
meet the requ i rements listed in subsection (g). All structures shall be subject to review by the city architect
pr ior to design review board submittal. With the foregoing purposes in mind, buildings and structures on
property with a commercial or non-single -family use thereon, shall comply with the following:
(1) Building design.
a. All buildings constructed within 400 feet from the edge of right -of-way of an i ntersection of two
public roads shall be designed in accordance with the predominant commercial building types
(see section 64 -1150).
b. All buildings constructed over 400 feet from the edge of right-of-way of an intersection of two
public roads shall be designed in accordance with the predominant resident ial building types (see
section 64 -1150).
(2) Building material.
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a. At least 80 percent of exterior walls shall consist of one or a combination of the following
materials: horizontal clapboard siding; brick; and stone or as approved by the city architect.
Vertical clapboard is permitted on buildings built to look like barns. The brick shall be hand
molded or tumbled to create the appearance of old brick .
b. No more than 20 percent of any exterior wall may consist of glass, architecturally treated, precast
stone. All shall have a natural appearance or a historic appearance or as approved by the city
architect.
c. Exterior building walls shall not consist of metal panel systems, as cast smooth concrete masonry
or plain, reinforced concrete slabs, aluminum or vinyl siding, plywood, mirrored glass, press-
wood or corrugated steel. Exceptions are : mechanical penthouses and roof screens).
(3) Roof
a. Roofs shall be gable, pyramidal, or hip style . Shed roofs are permitted over porches, additions,
and accessory structures. Roof pitches shall be between eight over 12 and 12 over 12, inclusive or
as approved by the city architect .
b. Roof material shall be made out of the following materials : asphalt shingle, wood shingle, wood
shake, or standing seam metal.
c. Buildings with a minimum gross square footage of 15,000 square feet may have a lower pitched
roof if they meet all of the following standards :
1. A decorative parapet or cornice is constructed along all roof lines with a lower pitch than
specified in subsection (h)(3)a . of this section .
2. Roof top equipment is screened from public view from all adjacent public streets .
d. Mansard roofs are not permitted .
(4) Windows .
a. Buildings shall have a ratio of openings (e.g., windows and doors) to solids from 30 percent to so
percent, inclusive of the building exterior or as approved by the city architect.
b. For wall sections greater than ten feet wide:
1. No one window shall exceed 32 square feet. No grouping of windows shall exceed 100
square feet or as approved by the city architect.
2. Windows on the side of the building with the principal or main entrance shall have a
maximum distance between windows not to exceed one window width or as approved by
the city arch itect .
3. Windows on the building 's side and rear shall have a maximum distance between windows
not to exceed two window widths.
4. Windowsills shall be placed a minimum of two feet above finished grade.
c. A minimum of 80 percent of windows on each exterior wall shall have a vertical orientation. The
ratio of height to w idth of vertical windows shall be no less than 1.8 (height) to one (width) or as
approved by the city architect.
d. Window types shall include one or a combination of the following types: double-hung sash
window with 2/1, 3/1, 2/2, 4/4, 6/6, and 9/9 lights, casement windows and fixed windows or as
approved by the city architect. The upper sash of all windows shall have divided lights . Clip-ins
are prohibited .
e. If located on a corner lot, all of the exterior building walls facing a public street shall continue the
same window arrangements as the side w ith the principal entrance.
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f. If windows are paired or grouped in larger numbers, windows shall have divided lights of 2/1 or
more.
(5) Doors .
a. Doors used as entryways by the public are limited to the following types:
1. Wood or simulated solid wood door with raised panels .
2. Wood or simulated wood door with raised panels on the bottom half and glass on the top
half.
3. Glass door with divided lights.
b. Flush panel doors are prohibited as exterior doors .
(6) Architectural features . Architectural details are encouraged to create variety , visual in terest, and
texture on new buildings.
a. Main entrances shall include a minimum of two of the following elements:
1. Decorative columns or posts ;
2. Pediments ;
3 . Arches ;
4 . Brackets;
5 . Transoms over doorways ;
6. Sidelights;
7 . Porticos ; or
8 . Recesses/projections .
b. If used, shutters shall be operable and fit the size of the window.
c. If r oof dormers are present and they have windows, then the windows shall be glazed .
(7) Prohibited building components. The following building components shall be prohibited: steel gates,
burglar bars, chain link fence, steel roll down curtains .
(i) Building colors. All aspects of a commercial or non -single-family development should use colors common in
the area and in nature . Earth -toned, subtle and muted colors provide for a development that inco r porates
sensitivity to its natural surroundings .
(1) Paint colors shall be chosen from the range of traditional colors present in the area . Inappropriate high
intensity colors shall be avoided .
(2) Acceptable colors are listed in section 64-1144 .
(Ord. No. 14-06-207, § 1, 6-16 -2014)
Sec. 64-1143. Requirements for institutional type uses.
(a) Landscaping . On property with institutiona l uses thereon, landscaping should be compat i ble in form, style
and design with the natural setting and informal landscaping present i n the area and on the site before
development. Landscaping should also be used as a buffer to screen a development from adjacent
residential and agricultural uses . In addition , such properties shall comply with the following :
(1) Streetscape and landscape strips.
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a. All properties shall provide a min imum ten -foo t -wide str i p along all public streets . The ten-foot-
wide strip shall be planted with a minimum two and one-half inches to three inches cal i per
hardwood over-story . Additional over-story trees are encouraged . The ten -foot-wide stri p may be
developed either (see section 64 -11 42(b)(2) for additional landscape and screen ing
requirements):
1. With hardscape elements such as plazas, planters , benches , fountains and tables in
addit ion to the requi r ed hardwood t r ees ; or
2. With landscape elements consisting of 60 percent coverage in trees and shrubs and 40
percent coverage in grass and ground cove r pursuant to this zoning ordinance, and the city
tree protect ion ordinance (chapter 60); o r
3. With a combination of both landscape and hardscape elements .
b. Cluster planting is encou r aged, however, at a minimum trees shall be planted i n the center of t he
landscape strip at a maximum distance of every 20 feet on average . Street trees are r equired to
be planted at one per 30 feet . They may be planted in clusters per the city arbo r ist .
c. Specimen trees, as described i n the city tree protection ordinance (chapter 60), located with in
the min i mum front yard shall be preserved .
d . A strip shall be planted w ith grass or sod between the back of curb or swale and the sidewa l k o r
the Milton Trail per the applicable city code .
(2) Parking lot landscape islands .
a. There shall be a minimum ten -foot-wide landscape island at the end of each parking bay .
b. There shall be a ten -foot-wide landscape is land for every 72 feet of double row length or 90 feet
of single row length of park i ng spaces.
c. Landscape islands shall inc l ude one over-story shade tree per 180 square feet of landscape island
area .
d . Location of interior landscape islands sha ll va ry from row to row to avoid a gr id pattern and
rect i linear layout .
(3) Landscape buffe r s.
a. For sites on four acres or less , a SO -foot-wide undisturbed buffer or alternative screening design,
with a ten -foot improvement setback, shall be located adjacen t to all AG-1 zon ing dist ri cts and all
property zoned, used, or developed for resident ial uses .
b. For sites on more than four acres , a 75 -foot-w ide undisturbed buffer or alternative screen i ng
des ign , with a ten -foot improvement setback, shall be l ocated adjacent to all AG -1 zon i ng
districts and all property zoned , used , or developed for resident ial uses.
c. To make buffers seem natural , an equal mix of three species shall be used.
(4) Property owners are encouraged to develop a green space for recreation and publ ic enjoyment.
(5) No removal of protected trees (chapter 60 , article II) is permitted on the site prior to the issuance of a
land disturbance permit, building perm it , deve lopment clear i ng perm it , or tree removal perm it.
(6) Clear cutting is prohibited, however, land clea r ing, timber harvest ing , tree farming and agr icultu r al
clear i ng may be allowed within the context of a development clearing permit.
(b) Screening and fencing. Landscaping and fencing materials on property with i nstitutional uses thereon , should
be used to min imize visual and noise impact of park ing , loading areas, de t ention ponds , stormwater
management facilities, and accessory site features as set forth herein :
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(1) All loading spaces shall be screened from view of any public street by either:
a. A 15 -foot-wide landscape strip planted with a continuous hedge of evergreen shrubs; or
b. Incorporated into the principal building. Shrubs shall be moderately growing, be a minimum
height of three and one -half to four feet at time of planting, and reach a height of six feet within
two years of planting .
(2) All parking lots shall be screened from view of any public street by a 15 -foot-wide landscape strip
planted to buffer standards.
Plants shall be a minimum height of three and one-half to four feet at time of planting, and such plants
shall reach a height of six feet within two years of planting (see section 64-1141(a)(1) for additional
landscape and screening requirements).
(3) Refuse areas (dumpsters) shall be placed in the least visible location from public streets, and shall be
enclosed pursuant to rules of the Fulton County Health Department . Enclosures must be constructed of
the same exterior wall material used for the building . The enclosure shall be a foot higher than what is
contained in the interior. The door enclosing the refuse area shall be constructed of an opaque non -
combustible material and appearance must be consistent with the prevailing architecture .
(4) Accessory site features, as defined in each zoning district of this zoning ordinance, shall be placed in
the least visible location from public streets, and shall be screened from view of any right-of-way or
any property zoned, used, or developed for residential uses, including the AG -1 zoning district, by one
of the following means :
a. Placement behind the principle building ; or
b . Erection of a 100-percent opaque fencing, around the entire accessory structure which must be
constructed of the same type of exterior material used for the building; or
c. By a vegetative screening , which shall consist of evergreen shrubs, be three and one -half to four
feet at time of planting, and reach a height of six feet within two years or planting.
(5) Drive-throughs are prohibited .
(c) Storm water management facilities.
(1) All facilities shall be in compliance with the stormwater management manual (chapter 20, article IV of
the City Code).
(2) All facilit i es shall be designed to create a natural look .
(3) Stormwater better site designs and nonstructural stormwater management practices shall be used
whenever possible.
(4) All detention facilities shall have a minimum ten -foot wide landscape strip planted to buffer standards
with evergreen plantings exterior to any required fence and/or required access area .
(S) Detention facilities shall be located in the least consp ic uous area of the site as engineering standards
will allow .
(6) The creation of shared stormwater management facilities is encouraged.
(d) Fencing and height.
(1) Fencing shall be constructed as required by Sec . 64 -417 . In •;arels aeljacent to an e*terior street an
equestrian fence is requireel .
~ Fences in yarels aeljacent to a puBlic street shall not e*ceeel GO inches from finisheel graele .
Will Retaining walls shall be constructed as required by Sec. 64 -2403. of Block or poureel concrete with
natural stone •;eneer or soliel stucco anel Brick only. If vieweel from the street, walls shall pro·riele a 360
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degree ,;eneer as desErieed al301.•e . Retaining walls al3o,;e three feet high shall ha,;e a rnntinuous
planting of e·,ergreens .
f4till Opaque fences are prohib ited in yards adjacent to a public street, except as set forth in subsections
(b)(4) a7 and (b)/4) b of this section . and (13)(5) of this section.
(e) Pedestrian safety. Construction of sidewalks and pedestrian amenities on property with an institutional use
thereon should encourage and promote walking to a development and within a development. The
placement of sidewalks, pedestrian amenities , and the Milton Trail (see chapter 48, article VIII of the city
Code) should contribute to the sense of place of the community. Sidewalks shall be constructed along public
road frontages and at least a five -foot landscape strip shall be planted between the roadway or curb and the
sidewalk or the Milton Trail, whichever applies . The sidewalk shall be set back from the back of curb the
maximum distance allowable within the right -of-way .
(1) Mandatory requirements; pedestrian path design standards.
a. Proposed developments shall have a pedestrian network.
b. Paths shall comply with any applicable Americans with Disabilities Act standards for slope, w i dth,
texture, level differences, and ramps .
c. Paths shall be a minimum of five feet in width .
d . Paths shall be clearly identified through painting, signage and texture change .
e. In order to facilitate travel, paths shall not be obstructed by any object or structure.
f. Paths shall be designed to minimize direct auto -pedestrian interaction .
g. Paths shall be connected to signalized crosswalks, where applicable .
h. Paths shall be a direct and convenient route between points of origin (i.e ., bus stop) and
destination (i.e ., shop, bank, etc .) with the following exception : sidewalks and paths may
meander to protect and maintain mature trees and other permitted landscape features .
Meandering sidewalks are discouraged.
i. Internal walkways (paths) shall be constructed connecting the public sidewalk along the street to
the main entrance of the principal use of the property.
j. Pedestrian paths shall be colored and/or textured walkways or sidewalks.
(2) Encouraged elements; pedestrian paths and public spaces .
a. To increase safety, grade separation is encouraged between pedestrian paths and motor vehicle
access areas .
b. Paths are encouraged to be built alongside interesting and inviting features . Street furniture is
encouraged to be located adjacent to any path. Street furniture includes, but is not limited to,
benches, pedestrian scale lighting, trash receptacles, dog rubbish receptacles , and ganged
ma i lboxes .
c. Community public spaces that promote gathering and have a park like design with streetscape
and hardscape elements are encouraged .
d. Paths are allowed to perpendicularly cross landscape strips.
e. Granite curbing is preferred over other types of curbing .
(f) Site lighting for parking lots, pedestrian paths and public entrances . Lighting on property with institutional
uses thereon should be compatible with the rural and historic setting of Milton. Lighting should be min i mal
while at the same time ample enough for safety and night viewing and be in compliance with the night sky
illumination (chapter 64, article II, division 7).
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(1) Parking lot lighting shall meet the following minimum standards :
a. Light poles shall not exceed a heigh t of 20 feet from finished gr ade .
b . Light poles shall not be allowed in tree islands.
c. Bases of light poles shall be compatible w ith the design of the primary building .
d . Parking lot light fixtures shall have the light cut off below 90 degrees and the beam shall be cut
off at 75 degrees .
e. Light pole arm styles, shall either be Shepherd 's Cr ook or Acorn .
(2) Pedestrian lighting shall meet the follow i ng m ini mum standa r ds :
a. Light poles shall not exceed a he ight of 15 feet from finished grade .
b. Light pole arm styles shall be eithe r Shepard's Crook or Acorn .
(3) Light poles shall include a taper, either in their trans it ion downward from post to decorative shaft
{base), or upward to ballast housing, or both.
(4) Shoe box and cobra styles are prohibited for light poles .
(5) Building-mounted light ing fixtures shall have a 45-degree light cutoff.
(6) All exterior lighting i n publicly accessible locations sha ll be architectura lly decorative with a histor ic
style .
{7) Neon lighting is prohibited .
(8) Light hous i ngs and posts shall be a dark color/material and be nonreflective.
(9) Exterior lighting shall not exceed two-foot candles .
(g) Building size, orientation, height, scale and parking. The design and layout of an institutional type
development should build upon and complement the design of crossroads communities as opposed to
creating a new one . The size, orientation , setback and scale of buildings are integral elements of crossroads
commun ities. A building 's orientation and placement should complement and relate to adjacent bui ld ings ,
structures and properties . The placement of buildings should create an informal grouping and relationship
between them as opposed to being orderly and un iform . The location of a building shou ld take into
considerat ion its rural surrounding and take advantage of th is by maintain i ng open views and spaces .
Buildings should be in proportion, in scale and characteristic to the ir rural and natural setting . The build i ng
design and material should contribute to the style and feel in g of its rural surrounding. The visual i mpact of
parking shou ld be min imized by plac in g it to the rear and by screening . Accessory structures such as
outparcel buildings, accessory structures, fences and walls shall have arch itectural features and exterior
materials consistent with the pri ncipal building and are not required to meet the requirements except for
height listed in section 64 -1142(g). All structures shall be subject to review by the city architect prior to
design review board subm ittal. Such developments shall comply with the fol lowing :
(1) Building size.
a. On a development of four acres or less, the max i mum building size shall be 20,000 square feet. If
two or more buildings are built, the total size of all buildings shall not exceed 25,000 square feet,
no sin gle one of which shall exceed 15,000 square feet .
b. On developments larger than four acres , the maximum bui lding size shall be 25,000 square feet .
c. A group of two or more buildings that share at least o ne contiguous wall w i ll be cons idered as
one building .
(2) Ori entation .
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Pa ge 16 of 25
a. Buildings shall be oriented to a public street. An entrance to a building should be located on the
side of the building facing a public street .
b. Accessory structures shall be located so as to be least visible from a public street and shall
conform to the setbacks for the district standards .
c. Driveways shall be perpendicular to the street.
(3) Height.
a. Maximum bu i lding height shall be two stories w ith the maximum height of 30 feet from average
finished grade to the bottom of the roof eave except where allowed pursuant to section 64 -76 .
(4) Scale. For every 80 feet of building length on a si ngle face, there shall be variation in the exterior or as
approved by the city architect accomplished through the following means:
a. For each 80 feet of building exterior wall, the building exterior and roof shall be offset by a
minimum of ten feet . Overhangs and roof lines shall follow the building 's location .
b. For each 80 feet of building exter ior wall, there shall be a change in details, or patterns or
materials .
(5) Parking .
a. Parking shall be shared among users within a common development. Parking shall be reduced
according to the shared parking standards established in section 64-1411. Additional reduct ion in
the number of parking spaces is encouraged .
b. All parking spaces built in excess of the minimum number requi r ed by the city zoning ord i nance,
shall be constructed of pervious material.
c. No on-site parking shall be located to the front of a building or between a building and the public
right-of-way (see section 64 -1142(b) regarding landscaping if parking is in view from the right -of-
way). Parking shall be located adjacent to interna l streets , not a public right-of-way .
d. If an internal street is developed for use by the general public, one row of parallel or diagonal
parking is allowed between the street and the curb.
(h) Building and other structure design. Construction of buildings in sty les and types not found in Milton sha ll be
avoided . Modern style using traditional elements and the reinterpretation of a style rather than the
mimicking of a style is encouraged . Exaggerated or excessively large or small architectural elements should
be avoided. Elements should be in proportion with the overall building. In addition, buildings should reflect a
specific style and not mix elements of different styles . The design and architectural elements of the buildings
should be compatible to those of the area . In Milton, commerc ial buildings are built at the i ntersections of
two major roads in a pattern of rural development called "cr ossroads communities ." Res idences are
constructed at the edge of these crossroads communities . The overlay district seeks to replicate this pattern
by having future nonresidential construction, built within 400 feet from the edge of the right-of-way of an
intersection, include elements of the historic commercial buildings, and nonresidential bu i ldings, constructed
over 400 feet from the edge of right-of-way of an intersection, include elements of the historic residential
buildings. Accessory structures such as outparcel buildings, accessory structures, fences and walls shall have
architectural features and exterior materials consistent with the principal building and are not required to
meet the requirements listed in section 64-1142(h). All structures shall be subject to rev iew by the city
architect prior to design review board submittal. With the foregoing proposes in mind, bu i ldings and
structures on property with institutional uses thereon, shall comply with the following:
(1) Building design.
a. All buildings constructed within 400 feet from the edge of right-of-way of an intersection of two
public roads shall be designed in accordance with the predominant commercial building types
(see section 64 -1150).
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b. All bu il dings constructed over 400 feet from the edge of r ight-of-way of an in t ersectio n of two
pub li c roads shall be designed i n accordance w ith the predom inant res identia l building types (see
section 64 -1150).
(2) Bu ilding material.
a. At least 80 percent of external walls shal l cons ist of one o r a combinat ion of the follow i ng
materials : horizontal clapboa r d sid i ng; br ick ; and stone o r as approved by the city architect.
Vertical clapboard is permitted on build i ngs bu i lt to look like barns . The brick shall be hand
molded or tumbled to create the appearance of old br i ck.
b. No more than 20 percent of any exterior wall may cons ist of glass, architecturally treated , precast
stone. All shall have a natural appearance or a historic appearance .
c. Exterior bu ilding walls shall not consist of metal panel systems , as cast smooth concrete masonry
or plain , re inforced concrete slabs , alum i num or v inyl sid i ng , plywood , mirrored glass, press -
wood or corrugated steel. Notwithstanding the forgoing sentence, mechanical penthouses and
roof screens are allowed .
(3) Roof.
a. Roofs shall be gab le, pyramida l, or hip style . Shed roofs are perm itted over porc hes , add it ions ,
and accessory structures . Roof pitches sha ll be between eight over 12 and 12 over 12 inclus ive or
as approved by the city architect .
b. Roof material sha ll be made out of the following materials : asphalt shingle, wood shingle, wood
sha ke, or standing seam metal.
c. Bu il dings w ith a m i nimum gross square footage of 15 ,000 square feet may have a lower pitched
roof if they meet all of the follow ing standa r ds:
1. A decorative parapet or cornice is constructed along all roof lines with a lower pitch than
spec ified i n subsect ion (h)(3)a . of this sect ion .
2. Roof top equ i pment is screened from publ ic view from all adjacent public streets.
d. Mansard roofs are not permitted .
(4) Windows .
a. Bui ldings shall have a rat io of openings (e .g., w i ndows and doors) to solids from 30 percent to 50
percent inclus ive of the bu i lding exterior or as approved by the city architect.
b. Accessory structures or structures used secondary to the pri mary use of the development are no t
required to meet the window requirements above .
c. Fo r wall sections greater than ten feet w ide :
1. No one window shall exceed 32 square f eet. No grouping of windows shal l exceed 100
square feet or as approved by the city architect.
2. Windows on the side of the building with the principal or main entrance shall have a
maximum distance between windows not to exceed one w indow w idt h or as approved by
the city arch itect.
3. Windows on the building 's side and rear shall have a minimum distance between w indows
not to exceed two window w idths.
4. Windowsills shall be placed a min imum of two feet above finished grade.
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Pa g e 18 o f 25
d. A minimum of 80 percent of windows on each exterior wall shall have a vertical orientation . The
ratio of height to width of vertical windows shall be no less than 1.8 (height) to one (width) or as
approved by the city architect.
e. Window types shall include one or a combinat ion of the following types : double-hung sash
window with 2/1, 3/1, 2/2, 4/4, 6/6, and 9/9 lights , casement windows and fixed windows or as
approved by the city arch itect. The upper sash of all windows shall have divided lights . Clip -i ns
are prohibited .
f . If located on a corner lot, all of the exterior building walls facing a public street shall continue the
same window arrangements as the side w ith the principal entrance .
g. If windows are paired or grouped in larger numbers, windows shall have divided lights of 2/1 or
more .
(5) Doors.
a. Doors used as entryways by the public are limited to the following types :
1. Wood or simulated solid wood door with ra ised panels .
2. Wood or simulated wood door with raised panels on the bottom half and glass on the top
half.
3. Glass door with divided lights .
b . Flush panel doors are prohibited as exterior doors .
(6) Architectural features . Architectural details are encouraged to create variety, visual interest, and
texture on new buildings .
a. Main entrances shall include a m i ni mum of two of the following elements :
1. Decorative columns or posts ;
2. Pediments ;
3. Arches;
4 . Brackets;
5 . Transoms over doorways;
6. Sidelights;
7 . Porticos; or
8. Recesses/projections .
b. If used, shutters shall be operable and fit the size of the window.
c. If roof dormers are present and they have windows, then the windows shall be glazed.
(7) Accessory structures. Outparcel buildings, accessory structures , fences and walls shall have
architectural features and exterior materials consistent with the principal building .
(8) Prohibited building components. The following building components shall be prohib ited: steel gates,
burglar bars, chain link fence, steel roll down curtains .
(i) Building colors. All aspects of an institutional development should use colo rs common in the area and in
nature . Earth-toned, subtle and muted colors provide for a development that incorporates sensitiv ity to its
natural surroundings.
(1) Paint colors shall be chosen from the range of t r aditional colors present in the area . Inappropriate high
intensity colors shall be avoided .
RZ23 -05
Page 19 of 25
(2) Acceptable colors are listed in section 64-1150.
Sec. 64-1144. Requirements for agricultural type uses.
(a) Height.
(1) Comply with the zoning district's height requirement .
(b) Parking .
(1) All parking spaces built, which exceed the minimum number required by the city zoning ordinance,
shall be constructed of pervious material.
(c) Stormwater management facilities.
(1) All facilities shall be in compliance with the stormwater management manual (chapter 20, article IV of
the city Code).
(2) All facilities shall be designed to create a natural look.
(3) Stormwater better site designs and nonstructural stormwater management practices shall be used
whenever possible.
(4) All detention facilities shall have a minimum ten-foot-wide landscape strip planted to buffer standards
with evergreen plantings exterior to any required fence and/or required access area .
(5) Detention facilities shall be located in the least conspicuous area of the site as engineering standards
will allow.
(6) The creation of shared stormwater management facilities is encouraged.
(d) Fencing and height.
(1) Fencing shall be constructed as required by Sec . 64 -417 . In ·1aras aajacent to an elEterior street an
equestrian fence is requires .
(2) Fences in yaras aajacent to an elEterior street shall not e1Eceea 60 inches frorn finishes graae .
f3till Retaining walls shall be constructed as required by Sec . 64-2403 .of block or pourea concrete with
natural stone veneer or solia stucco ans brick only . If ,;iewea frorn the street, walls shall proviae a 360
aegree veneer as aescribea above. Retaining walls above three feet high shall ha•,<e a continuous
planting of e·,ergreens .
Sec. 64-2403. Retaining walls.
(a) Definitions:
Retaining wall means a wall or terraced combination of walls used at a grade change to hold soil and other
earth material at a higher position. Retaining walls may be attached to or independent from other structures. The
exposed side of a retaining wall shall be known as a "face ." The area between a lower wall and a successive higher
wall shall be known as a "terrace ."
(1) Retaining walls.
a. Purpose and intent. The City of Milton adopts this section to accomplish and ensure the
following:
i. To allow for the review of retaining walls of a size that may impact surrounding buildings,
land and uses;
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Page 20 of 25
ii. To require the const r uction of retaining walls in a manner consistent with engineering and
construction best practices ; and
ii i. To lessen the i mpact of large retain i ng walls on abutting properties and the public by
encouraging the use of landscaping and aesthetically pleasing design elements.
(2) Applicability and exemptions . The regulations and requirement conta i ned herein shall apply to all
retaining walls erected i n the City of M i lton, except the following :
a. Retaining walls measuring a height of less than four feet, which shall be exempt from requ iring a
permit.
b. Wing Walls
i.
ii.
iii .
Wing walls are permitted up to 10 feet in exposed height for a maximum distance of 25
feet and then sloping at a maximum of a 4:1 slope to a maximum of 6 feet in height.
Any wing wall or a portion of a wing wall above six feet in height shall be located outside
of the minimum yard of the applicable zoning district or transect zone .
A wing wall must be finished with brick or stone veneer. Modular block walls are
prohibited .
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&:f.:. A terraced combination of walls , in which each separate wall retains less than four feet of
unbalanced fill and in which each successive wall is separated by a distance of at least one t imes
(lx) the height of the highest wall.
(3) General provisions .
a. Determining retaining wall height. The height of a reta i ning wall shall be the distance from the
grade at the base of the face of the wall to the top of the finished wall. Terraced and wing walls
shall be measured i n the same manner.
b. Walls with in yard setbacks . A reta ining wall is allowed up to the property line in side and rear
yards except as prohibited in Sec . 64 -2403 (2) b. ii. for wing walls . Retaining walls four feet or
greater shall not be located within ten feet of the front yard property line, with the exception
that portions of such walls which measure less than four feet in height shall not be subject to this
RZ23-05
Pag e 21 o f 25
requirement. On lots subject to the rural viewshed, retaining walls are prohibited within 60 feet
of the right-of-way .
c. Foundations. No part of the retaining wall or wing wall foundation shall extend beyond the
property line or into the rural viewshed.
d. Fall protection. All retaining or wing walls four feet or greater in height shall be required to
provide fall protection. Fall protection systems may include, but shall not be limited to,
permanent landscaping or fencing .
e. Terracing . There shall be a maximum of two walls, regardless of height for purposes of terracing.
i . Minimum separation between terracing walls must match the highest segment of the
highest wall.
f. Height limitation. No single retaining wall shall exceed six feet in height at any point except as
allowed in Sec . 64-2403 (2) b.i.
g. Permitting. A permit shall be required for all retaining walls that retain four or more feet of
unbalanced fill. Any retaining wall greater than six feet tall allowed by variance shall require
engineered drawings:
i.
ii.
Walls above four *feet in height shall require engineered drawings for City Staff to review
and approval.7
Walls fo1:1r to six f'eet in height shall req1:1ire engineered drawings or ffieet city standards.
(4) Design guidelines.
a. Timber retaining walls over four feet are prohibited.
b. Poured concrete walls and block walls must be clad in brick or natural stone . Facing of such walls
shall be approved by the city architect.
c. Modular block walls shall be constructed of a beveled fa€€-; three-piece system ~ similar to the
Anchor™ Diamond Pro™ Stone C1:1t™ s•rsteffi . The modular block sty le, block size, and material
shall be approved by the city architect.
d. Retaining and wing walls shall be landscaped to mitigate any adverse visual impacts. Plant species
shall be selected to preserve the structural integrity of the wall. A planting plan shall be
submitted to and approved by the city arborist.
(5) Appeals. Notwithstanding, anything in the zoning ordinance to the contrary, no primary variance may
be granted except for:
a. Retaining walls not meeting the setback requirements indicated in subsection (3)b.; and
b. Retaining walls greater than six feet in height at any point, or a tiered system of more than two
walls provided that engineered drawings are submitted with the variance application .
(-Ord. No. 16-11-289, § 1, 11-21-2016)
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4.7 SCREENING AND FENCING (Article XIX, Crabapple Form Based Code)
4 .7.1 Fences, walls and hedges shall be subject to the following :
a. Where permitted within the first Layer, fences, walls and hedges shall not exceed 42 inches in
height. Retaining walls are excluded from this requirement .
b. In all other locations fences and walls shall not exceed 5 feet in height and shall be at maximum
of 50% opaque above 42 inches in height. This requirement shall not apply to fences and walls
screening refuse areas.
c. Allowed fencing material shall be three or four board wooden fencing with wood posts in the
First Layer .
d . Opaque fences are prohibited in the First Layer .
e. Chainlink fencing is prohibited from public view . All chainlink fence shall be black vinyl clad .
f. Retaining walls shall be constructed as required by Sec . 64-2403. faced with stone and brick only.
Retaining walls abo•re three feet high shall ha't'e a contin1:101:1s planting of e¥ergreens in front of
them-:
4.7.2 Loading docks and service areas shall be screened from view of any Thoroughfare ef..QL.Civic Space by either:
a. A minimum 6 foot high opaque fence matching the material of the building; or
b. A 15 foot wide landscape strip planted with a continuous hedge of evergreen shrubs. Shrubs shall
be moderately growing, be a minimum height of 42 inches at time of planting, and reach a
minimum height of 6 feet within two years of planting.
4.7 .3 Refuse areas (dumpsters) shall be placed in the least visible location from public streets, and shall be
enclosed pursuant to rules of the Fulton County Health Department. Enclosures shall be constructed of the
same exterior wall material used for the Principal Building. The enclosure shall be one foot higher than what
is contained in the interior. The door enclosing the area shall be made out of wood or a material that has the
appearance of wood .
4.7.4 Mechanical features such as HVAC condensers, electrical transformers, heat pumps, and similar features
shall not be placed in the First Layer and shall be screened from view of any Thoroughfare, Civic Space, or
any property zoned, used, or developed for Residential Functions, by one of the following means :
a. Placement behind the building ;
b. 100% opaque fencing which shall be constructed of the same type of exterior material used for
the Principal Building; or
c. By a berm or vegetative screening. The screening shall consist of evergreen shrubs, be a
minimum of 42 inches in height at time of planting, and reach a minimum height of 6 feet within
two years or planting.
4.7 .5 Detention ponds shall have a minimum 10 foot wide landscape strip planted to buffer standards with
evergreen plantings exterior to any required fence and or required access area.
(Ord .No . 15-04-242, § 1, 4-27-2015)
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4.7 SCREENING AND FENCING (Article XX, Deerfield Form Based Code)
4.7.1 Fences, walls and hedges shall be subject to the following:
a. General to zones T2, T3, T4, TS, T6
i. Chain link fencing is prohibited from view from a public Thoroughfare and shall be black or
hunter green vinyl clad . See Section 4.7l(e) for additional restrictions in the Five Acre Road
Zone .
ii. Retaining walls shall be constructed as required by Sec . 64 -2403 . faceel with or coAstructeel
of stoAe, brick, or elecorati>.1e coAcrete rnoelular block . RetaiAiAg walls abo•~e three feet high
shall have a coAtimwl:ls plaAting of evergreens in front of them .
b. Specific to the First Layer in all zones along State Route 9 and Windward Parkway.
i. A continuous fence is required in the First Layer except at driveway and pedestrian
walkway openings. Said fence shall also include a minimum 3 foot wide landscaped zone on
the exterior of the fencing, which may be included within any required Landscape Strip .
ii. Fences and posts shall be between 42 and 55 inches in height measured from finished
grade .
iii . Allowed fencing material shall be primarily pressure treated dark stained wood and may
include accents of natural or man-made stone, br ick, aluminum, ornamental or decorative
wrought iron or architectural concrete . Accents shall not exceed 20% of the total surface
area of the fence and any openings within it. Fencing shall be in keeping with the
equestrian and rural character of Milton. Unpainted or unstained pressure treated wood is
prohibited .
c. Specific to zones T2, T3, T4 except the First layer along State Route 9 or Windward Parkway .
i. Where permitted within the First Layer, fences, walls and hedges shall not exceed 42
inches in height. Retaining walls are excluded from this requirement.
ii. Opaque fences are prohibited in the First Layer.
iii. In all other locations fences and walls shall not exceed 6 feet in height and shall be at
maximum of 50% opaque above 42 inches in height. This requirement shall not apply to
fences and walls screening refuse areas or loading docks.
d . Specific to zones TS, T6 except the First Layer along State Route 9 or Windward Parkway.
i. Within the first Layer, fences, walls and hedges shall not exceed 55 inches in height.
Retaining walls are excluded from this requirement.
ii. Opaque fences are prohibited in the First Layer.
iii. In all other locations fences and walls shall not exceed 6 feet in height and may be 100%
opaque.
e. Specific to the Five Acre Road Zone .
i. Chainlink Fencing is prohibited.
ii. Perimeter fencing must be in keeping with the equestrian character of Milton .
4.7.2 The following elements shall be screened from view of any A-Grid Thoroughfare or Civic Space as set forth
below. To comply with the maximum height requirements above, any screening that exceeds the maximum
requirements for the First Layer shall not be located within it.
a. Loading docks and service areas shall be screened by either :
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Page 24 of 25
i. A minimum 6 foot high opaque fence matching the material of the building; or
ii. A 15 foot wide landscape zone planted with a continuous hedge of evergreen shrubs .
Shrubs shall be moderately growing, be a minimum height of 42 inches at time of planting,
and reach a minimum height of 6 feet with i n two years of planting.
b. Open Parking or gas fueling bays shall be screened by a continuous screen of evergreen plant i ngs .
Said screen shall be 3 feet in height at plant i ng and 4 feet minimum height at maturity and 3 to 8
feet in width at maturity .
4 .7.3 Refuse areas (dumpsters) shall be placed in the least visible location from an A-Grid Thoroughfare, and shall
be enclosed pursuant to rules of the Fulton County Health Department. Enclosures shall be constructed of
the same exter ior wall material used for the Principal Building . The enclosure shall be 1 foot higher than
what is contained in the interior. The door enclosing the area shall be made out of wood or a material that
has the appearance of wood .
4.7.4 Mechan ical features such as HVAC condensers, electr ical transformers, heat pumps , and si milar featu r es
shall not be placed in the First Layer and shall be screened from view of any A-Grid Thoroughfare, Civic
Space, or any property used or developed for Residential Functions, by one of the following mea ns:
a. Placement behind the building ;
b. 100% opaque fencing which shall be constructed of the same type of exterior material used for
the Principal Build i ng; or
c. By a berm or vegetative screening . The screening shall consist of evergreen shrubs, be a
minimum of 42 inches in height at t i me of planting, and reach a minimum height of 6 feet within
two years of planting.
4.7.5 Detention/retention ponds shall have a m i ni mum 10 foot w ide landscape area planted to buffer standards
with evergreen plantings exterior to any requ i red fence and or required access area . When requ i red , fencing
material around detention/retention ponds shall meet the fenc ing requ irements of Sect ion 4. 7.l(c) or as
approved by Warrant.
( Ord . No. 15 -04 -240, § 1, 4-27 -2015)
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