§ 5.60

The special permit is required where specified in the Zoning Ordinance to establish and conduct certain uses presumed to be generally appropriate and compatible within a zoning district, but whose intensity, impacts, or other characteristics require discretionary review to ensure that projects meet all applicable standards and findings for the use at the designated location. Uses that require a special permit are considered generally lesser in intensity and impacts than those that require a use permit.

The Zoning Administrator shall hear and decide special permit applications.

A special permit may be granted if the Zoning Administrator makes all of the following findings:

A.

The proposed use conforms with the general plan, with the zoning ordinance, and with all standards applicable to the proposed use that have been adopted by the Planning Commission or Board of Supervisors;

B.

The site is adequate for the proposed use, including but not limited to being of adequate size and shape to accommodate all facilities and development features to integrate the use into the surrounding area and to provide any necessary or appropriate buffers between the use and the surrounding area;

C.

The proposed use will not be detrimental to the public health, safety, or general welfare. In this respect the Zoning Administrator shall further find, without limitation, that:

1.

Adequate off-street parking, loading and unloading areas (if applicable) and compliant access for individuals with disabilities will be provided;

2.

Appropriately designed site access will be provided, including safe and adequate access for fire and emergency vehicles (including secondary access where deemed necessary by the fire marshal);

3.

The use will not adversely affect water quality. Adequate wastewater treatment, disposal and sanitation facilities will be provided and will satisfy all applicable local, state and federal requirements;

4.

The use will not be detrimental to the adjacent area because of excessive noise, odor, dust or bright lights;

5.

The use will not substantially worsen traffic congestion affecting the surrounding area;

6.

Erosion will be adequately controlled; and

7.

Adequate storm drainage management exists or will be provided and will comply with all applicable local, state and federal requirements.

If all of the above findings cannot be made, the application shall be denied.

(Ord. No. NS-1200.355, § 8, 4-26-16)

Refer to Chapter 5.20 for procedures common to all land use processes, including special permits. Such procedures include, among others, application, modifications, environmental assessment, public hearing and notification, appeals, notice of approval or denial, limitation of time for establishing the use, life of a permit, revocation and modification of permits, and renewal of permits.