THE PENINSULA
NEIGHBORHOOD CODE
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
Revised March 2012
GOVERNING CONSTRUCTION WITHIN THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
COMPONENTS OF THE
PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD CODE
The Peninsula Neighborhood is a new neighborhood in Iowa City designed to foster public life through its squares,
tree-lined streets, and front-porched houses while providing for a comfortable private life through the use of careful
standards that ensure a high level of privacy. The development of the Peninsula Neighborhood is governed by the
Peninsula Neighborhood Code, which is designed to achieve those goals in concert with builders working with the
techniques and scale of 21st century development.
The Peninsula Neighborhood Code (or "Code") is enforced by The City of Iowa City (or "The City"). The guiding
documents and maps that comprise the Code are as follows:
 Principles and Regulations (including Definitions and Building Placement Standards)
 The Neighborhood Regulating Plan
 The Sensitive Areas Development Plan (SADP) and Planned Development Overlay Plan (OPD) for The
Peninsula Neighborhood
In order to issue building permits for development within The Peninsula Neighborhood, The City interprets and
enforces the SADP/OPD, the Regulating Plan, and the Principles and Regulations. In carefully chosen instances, the
Principles and Regulations allow for specific deviations from Iowa City's Zoning Ordinance.
Development within The Peninsula Neighborhood is also subject to standards set out in The Peninsula
Neighborhood Covenants and Deed Restrictions, which are themselves privately administered and enforced by the
Developer and his assigns, including The Peninsula Neighborhood Architectural Review Board (or "PNARB").
The Peninsula Neighborhood Covenants and Deed Restrictions include:
 Architectural Standards
 Landscaping Standards
 Architectural Review Procedures
Before a building permit can be issued for any structure in The Peninsula Neighborhood, The City must have
written confirmation from PNARB that the submitted plans meet the standards of The Peninsula Neighborhood
Covenants and Deed Restrictions.
A. DEFINITIONS
Special definitions are additions or substitutions to the current list of definitions in the City of Iowa City Zoning
Ordinance. Certain terms in the Code are used in very specific ways, often excluding some of the meanings of
common usage. Wherever a word is in SMALL CAPITAL format, consult the definitions for the specific meaning.
B. THE NEIGHBORHOOD REGULATION PLAN
The REGULATING PLAN is the "master plan" for the neighborhood that provides specific information for the
disposition of each property or lot. The Plan also shows how each lot relates to the public spaces (STREETS,
GREENS, parks, etc.), the overall neighborhood and the surrounding environment. The Neighborhood and the
STREET are the "extra value" that makes the Peninsula Neighborhood an extraordinary place to live. For lots in
special locations, there may be additional design guidelines identified on the REGULATING PLAN of each phase
of construction.
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C. THE BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS
The Peninsula Neighborhood BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS establish the basic parameters governing
building form, including the envelope for building placement (in three dimensions) and certain required/permitted
building elements, such as porches, balconies, and fences. The Building Placement Standards establish both the
boundaries within which things may be done -- and specific things that must be done.
The goal of the Peninsula Neighborhood BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS is to shape good public space
and healthy outdoor private space (yards and gardens). They aim for the minimum level of control necessary to
meet that goal. Variances to the Peninsula Neighborhood BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS can be granted
only where the unique physical circumstance of a lot makes compliance impossible. The specific variance must also
meet the conditions of the City of Iowa City Board of Adjustment.
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD COVENANTS AND DEED RESTRICTIONS
The development of the Peninsula Neighborhood is also governed by private covenants and deed restrictions, as
mentioned above. Although not part of the City's purview, the intent of these Standards and Procedures is described
here so that the City understands how they will function in relation to the other Standards of the Code:
A. THE ARCHITECTURAL STANDARDS
The goal of the Peninsula Neighborhood Architectural Standards is a coherent and pleasing architectural character
that is appropriate to the Iowa City tradition. The Architectural Standards govern a building's architectural elements
regardless of location and set the parameters for allowable materials, configurations, and construction techniques.
Equivalent or better products than those specified are always encouraged.
B. THE LANDSCAPE STANDARDS
The purpose of the Landscape Standards is to ensure coherent neighborhood streets and to assist property owners
with understanding the relationship between the street and their own front yards. These Standards set the parameters
for planting and maintenance of trees on or near each lot.
C. THE ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW PROCEDURE
The Peninsula Neighborhood Architectural Review Board (the BOARD, or "PNARB") is established to administer
an ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW PROCEDURE to execute this authority and to protect the value of lots and
houses in the Peninsula Neighborhood. It is the responsibility of the BOARD to review architectural and landscape
plans for compliance with The Peninsula Neighborhood Covenants & Deed Restrictions and to provide design
guidance when necessary. The BOARD shall be solely responsible for interpreting and enforcing The Peninsula
Neighborhood Covenants & Deed Restrictions regarding architectural and landscape standards, as well as any other
standards not otherwise addressed and regulated by the City of Iowa City.
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PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
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THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
DEFINITIONS
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The following definitions are additions or substitutions to the current list of definitions in the City of Iowa City
Zoning Ordinance for use with this Code. Certain terms in the Code are used in very specific ways, often excluding
some of the meanings of common usage. Wherever a word is printed in SMALL CAPITAL LETTERS, it is being
used as defined herein.
ACCESSORY UNIT
A dwelling unit on a single-family lot incidental to the primary residence and no greater than 650 square feet in
size. (Note: This definition differs from the Definition of "Accessory Apartments" in the City Zoning Ordinance).
ALLEY
The open public Right of Way at the rear of lots that provides access to vehicle parking spaces (e.g., garages),
utility meters and garbage bins. The ALLEY Right of Way is generally 25 feet. (Note: This definition differs from
the Definition of "Alley" in the City Zoning Ordinance. See also COMMON DRIVE.
BACKYARD
All unbuilt portions of the lot excluding the FRONT YARD . (Note: This definition differs from the Definition of
"Rear Yard" in the City Zoning Ordinance).
BAY WINDOW
A generally U shaped enclosure, extending the interior space of the building outward of the exterior BUILDING
WALL. Projection not greater than 30 inches beyond the RSBL; walls and windows shall be between 90 degrees
(perpendicular) and 0 degrees (parallel) relative to the primary wall they spring from. Within any Code-required
FRONT PORCH, BAY WINDOWS shall not occupy more than 5 feet of the width of nor project more than 30 inches
into the FRONT PORCH. Note that these limitations apply only to projections beyond the RSBL and to structures
within Code-required FRONT PORCHES (and not to porches outside of or in excess of the Code FRONT PORCH
requirements).
BUILDABLE AREA
The area of the lot within which buildings will sit. The BUILDABLE AREA sets the limits of the building footprint
now and in the future -- additions must be within the BUILDABLE AREA. This provides for future growth in a
manner consistent with the Peninsula Neighborhood's Quality of Life goals. The BUILDABLE AREA is illustrated
in and set by the BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS. (Note: This definition differs from the Definition of
"Buildable Area" in the City Zoning Ordinance).
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS
The BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS (BPS) establish the basic parameters governing building
construction. This includes the envelope for building placement (in 3 dimensions) and certain required/permitted
building elements, such as porches, balconies and fences.
CIVIC GREEN, SQUARE
PUBLIC SPACES located within the neighborhood, as designated on the REGULATING PLAN. The CMC
GREEN is a primarily unpaved, formally configured, small public lawn or park. The SQUARE may be paved,
appropriate to a more highly trafficked area. Both shall have not less than 60% of their tract perimeter fronting
Rights of Ways and shall be surrounded by canopy STREET TREES. Their tract dimensions shall be no thinner than a
1:4 ratio, with a minimum tract dimension of 25 feet. Situated at prominent locations within the neighborhood and
often dedicated to important events or citizens, CIVIC GREENS and SQUARES may contain play equipment but shall
not include ball fields and courts.
COMMON DRIVE
A shared access easement (for two or more lots) typically found on EDGE LOTS. COMMON DRIVES may also be
placed to encompass adjacent utility easements. COMMON DRIVES shall be as configured on the REGULATING
PLAN. See also ALLEY.
COMMON LOT LINES
Lot lines shared by private lots, generally side lot lines.
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CONSERVATION LINE
A line established to guarantee the preservation of the Peninsula's natural areas and slopes and to preserve the views
from EDGE LOT houses. Land beyond the CONSERVATION LINE shall not be built upon, paved, driven on, re-graded
or otherwise disturbed.
CORNER LOT
A lot in which one side lot line is adjacent to a STREET. Where a PRIVACY BUILDING LINE (PBL) is located on the
side adjacent to the STREET, the PRIVACY SIDE restrictions on windows do not apply. Special building placement,
fencing, and landscape requirements may also apply.
DORMERS
Dormers are small roofed ancillary structures with windows providing light and air to occupiable space within the
roof. Dormers are permitted and do not constitute a STOREY so long as they do not break the primary eaves line, and
are individually less than 15 feet wide and are collectively not more than 50% of their respective facade.
EAVE, MAIN EAVES, OR EAVE HEIGHT
Used for measuring permitted building heights, the MAIN EAVES are the eaves of the primary roof of the building.
EDGE LOT
A lot located on the perimeter of the neighborhood whose rear lot line faces and/or is within the Peninsula
conservation area.
FRONT PORCH
The ground floor platform attached to the front or STREET or REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL) side of the
main building. (A FRONT PORCH may have a single ground floor platform or two platforms stacked at the ground
and second story levels.) Required FRONT PORCHES, as defined in the BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS, must be
roofed and enclosed by posts that extend up to the roof and shall not be otherwise enclosed except with balustrades
(railings) and insect screening.
FRONT YARD
The area of the lot from the STREET FRONTAGE to the enclosed portion of the building wall. This area is
contiguous with the STREET, and includes the FRONT PORCH. (Note: This definition differs from the Definition
in the City Zoning Ordinance).
FRONT YARD FENCE
The wood (picket) or wrought iron fence or masonry wall, between 30 and 40 inches in height, located within the
FRONT YARD (generally 1 foot behind & parallel to the property line of private lots and also along COMMON
LOT LINES to a point at least 10 feet back from the REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL).
GARDEN WALL
This may take the basic form of a FRONT YARD or a PRIVACY FENCE depending on its height and placement.
A garden wall shall allow no view through its surface.
OPEN SIDE
Where applicable, the side of the house and lot opposite the PRIVACY SIDE and PRIVACY BUILDING LINE
(PBL). There are no window restrictions on the OPEN SIDE, and a minimum setback is used, rather than a
REQUIRED BUILDING LINE. The OPEN SIDE of the house has no privacy restrictions because the windows on
the adjacent side of the neighboring house are restricted by PRIVACY-SIDE MANNERS (See PBL below).
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PEDESTRIAN PATHWAY
PEDESTRIAN PATHWAYS are interconnecting paved walkways that provide pedestrian and bicycle passage
through blocks running from STREET to STREET, ALLEYS or interior block parking areas. The easement width
for these pathways shall be between 10 and 25 feet and the paved walkway between 6 and 12 feet, except where
specifically noted on the REGULATING PLAN, and shall provide an unobstructed view through their length.
PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD (BOARD OR PNARB)
The PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD (BOARD or PNARB) is a group of
individuals created by The Peninsula Neighborhood Covenants & Deed Restrictions. The PNARB is established to
administer and enforce the architectural and landscape standards for new construction and future building
modifications, as well as certain portions of the BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS within the Code not
otherwise enforced by the City of Iowa City.
PRIVACY BUILDING LINE (PBL)
The PBL is the required side building line for lots where designated on the REGULATING PLAN. The building
must be built-to at least one point on the PBL, between four feet (4') and six (6’) from one side lot line. Windows
are restricted on this side of the building. The PBL is set consistently along a given STREET, allowing houses to
open to the other, OPEN SIDE yard. See also PRIVACY-SIDE MANNER.
PRIVACY FENCE
Fences and hedges along COMMON DRIVES, ALLEYS and COMMON LOT LINES, may be as high as eight (8)
feet above the adjacent ground provided that they are at least 10 feet behind the REQUIRED STREET BUILDING
LINE (RSBL). Within 10 feet of the RSBL only a FRONT YARD FENCE is permitted (see the BPS Siting
Specifications for limited exceptions to this rule for CORNER LOTS). Wire fences shall have a hardy species of
hedge or climbing vine planted along them (Consult the TOWN ARCHITECT ).
PRIVACY SIDE MANNERS
The Peninsula Neighborhood Covenants & Deed Restrictions have codified Charleston, South Carolina's urban
tradition of "North-Side Manners" into PRIVACY-SIDE MANNERS to provide a high level of privacy and a more
comfortable relation between adjacent houses on medium and small lots. See also PRIVACY BUILDING LINE
and refer to The Peninsula Neighborhood Covenants & Deed Restrictions for specific information.
PUBLIC SPACE
Property (STREETS, ALLEYS, CIVIC GREENS, SQUARES and parks) within the public domain and physically
within the neighborhood within which citizens may exercise their rights.
REGULATING PLAN
The REGULATING PLAN is the "master plan" for the neighborhood that provides specific information for the
disposition of each lot. The REGULATING PLAN specifies the BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD for each
lot and shows how each building contributes to the larger neighborhood, as well as the arrangement of PUBLIC
SPACE in relation to private space. There may be additional requirements for specific lots noted on the
REGULATING PLAN.
REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL)
The RSBL is the required building line (a requirement, not a permissive minimum as in a set-back), generally seven
(7) feet from the STREET FRONTAGE unless otherwise designated on the REGULATING PLAN. The building
(generally the FRONT PORCH) must be built-to (coincident with) or within 3 feet behind the RSBL. The RSBL for
each lot is shown on the REGULATING PLAN.
REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE 2 (RSBL2)
A required build-to line for certain EDGE LOTS. Where a RSBL2 is shown on the REGULATING PLAN, the
FRONT PORCH is optional. Buildings with no FRONT PORCH shall be built-to the RSBL2 for at least 40% of the
RSBL2 width.
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SIDEWING
The portion of a building extending along a side lot line toward the ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE or garage. This
optional portion may be built initially or as a later addition. The SIDEWING sits within the BUILDABLE AREA of
the lot as shown in the BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS.
STOOP
An entry platform on the RSBL side of a building. STOOPS, where required by the BUILDING PLACEMENT
STANDARDS, may be roofed but they may not be enclosed.
STREET, STREET FRONTAGE, AND SIDE STREET
1.
2.
3.
STREET includes all PUBLIC SPACE (STREETS, SQUARES, GREENS, parks) -- but not COMMON
DRIVES or ALLEYS.
STREET FRONTAGE refers to the lot line coincident with the STREET.
The SIDE STREET is the STREET of the longer lot line, generally with the lesser Right of Way along it.
STREET TREE
A deciduous canopy tree as listed in the STREET TREE list that accompanies the REGULATING PLAN. STREET
TREES are of a hardy species, large enough to form a street canopy with sufficient clear trunk to allow traffic to
pass under unimpeded.
STREET TREE ALIGNMENT LINE
A generally straight line that STREET TREES are to be planted along. This alignment is parallel with the STREET
and is set four (4) feet back from the curb, unless otherwise specified in the REGULATING PLAN.
STREETSCAPE
This term refers to the various components that make up the STREET, both in the Right of Way and on private lot
frontages. It includes pavement, parking spaces, planting areas, STREET TREES, streetlights, sidewalks, FRONT
YARD FENCES, FRONT YARDS, FRONT PORCHES, etc.
TOWN ARCHITECT
The TOWN ARCHITECT is an Urban Designer, familiar with New Urbanist principles and with the Peninsula
Neighborhood development, who will work with builders and property owners to show how the Peninsula
Neighborhood Code can satisfy their building needs in a cost efficient manner.
The role of the TOWN ARCHITECT has been established to administer an ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW procedure for
the development of properties within the Peninsula Neighborhood. It is the responsibility of the TOWN ARCHITECT
to review architectural and landscape plans for compliance with The Peninsula Neighborhood Covenants & Deed
Restrictions and to provide design guidance when necessary. The TOWN ARCHITECT shall be responsible for
interpreting and enforcing The Peninsula Neighborhood Covenants and Deed Restrictions regarding architectural
and landscape standards, as well as any other standards not otherwise addressed and regulated by the City.
The TOWN ARCHITECT will make recommendations to the City prior to and including consideration of Final
Development Plans or modifications of Final Development Plans prior to issuance of building permit, The TOWN
ARCHITECT will work on design solutions to meet handicapped access needs within the Peninsula Neighborhood
Code prescriptions and, where necessary, will recommend appropriate minor variations to be approved by city to
accommodate accessibility.
"WHERE CLEARLY VISIBLE FROM THE STREET "
Many requirements of this Code apply only where the subject is "clearly visible from the STREET." Note that the
definition of STREET includes parks, CIVIC GREENS, SQUARES, and all public areas except ALLEYS or COMMON
DRIVES. A building element more than 30 feet from the RSBL (for example, items along a COMMON LOT LINE 31
feet away from a RSBL) is by definition NOT Clearly Visible from the STREET. The intent is to restrict control to the
public realm where it has significance and limit public interference in the private realm.
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THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
REGULATING PLAN
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UNDERSTANDING THE REGULATING PLAN
As the principal tool for implementing the Peninsula Neighborhood Master Plan, the REGULATING PLAN
identifies the basic physical characteristics of each lot and the type of building assigned to it. It also identifies the
type and placement of STREET TREES on each STREET, as well as identified parking spaces.
A Preliminary REGULATING PLAN is submitted as part of the Preliminary Plat. The Landscape Plan is part of the
REGULATING PLAN as it defines STREET TREE placement. The illustration below explains the elements of the
REGULATING PLAN and will be useful as a reference when examining the plan.
A final REGULATING PLAN will be submitted with the final plat application for each development phase of the
Peninsula Neighborhood. The exact placement of lot lines, trees and parking spaces in the final plan may differ by a
few degrees or feet, but the basic configuration of the plan will not change.
Handicapped Access: The TOWN ARCHITECT will work on design solutions to meet handicapped access needs
within the Peninsula Neighborhood Code prescriptions and, where necessary, will recommend appropriate minor
variations to be approved by the City to accommodate accessibility needs. These variations may take the form of
mechanical lifts, conventional ramps, and other techniques as appropriate to the circumstance and available
technology. With the approval of the TOWN ARCHITECT such ramps and devices may project past the RSBL and
OPEN SIDE setbacks.
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THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS
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INTRODUCTION
The Neighborhood REGULATING PLAN identifies the BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS for all lots. The
goal of the BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS is good STREET form and desirable outdoor private space
(yards and gardens). They aim for the minimum level of control necessary to meet that goal. Variances to the
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS can be granted only where the unique physical circumstance of a lot
makes compliance impossible. The specific variance must also meet the conditions of the City of Iowa City Board
of Adjustment.
The BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARDS set the basic parameters governing building construction, including
the building envelope (in three dimensions) and certain required/permitted elements, such as porches, balconies, and
fences. The STANDARDS specify building types that will be built within the Neighborhood.
GENERAL GUIDING PRINCIPLES
1. BUILDINGS ARE ALIGNED AND CLOSE TO THE STREET.
Buildings form the space of the STREET. Building facades are aligned as a simple plane along the STREET.
2. BUILDINGS FORM AND PROTECT PRIVATE OPEN SPACE.
Whether a yard, garden or courtyard, private open space is an important complement to the public space of the
neighborhood.
3. BUILDINGS HAVE FRONT PORCHES OR BALCONIES.
This overview of the STREET contributes to healthful STREETS and safe neighborhoods, while serving as a buffer between
the house interior and STREET activity.
4. BUILDINGS ARE DESIGNED FOR TOWNS.
Rather than being simply pushed closer together, as in many suburban developments, buildings must be designed for their
close siting within towns and cities. Views are directed to the STREET and the BACK YARD, not toward the neighbors.
5. PROPERTY LINES ARE PHYSICALLY DEFINED BY FENCES, HEDGES OR GARDEN WALLS.
Land should be clearly public or private-in public view or private and protected.
6. VEHICLE STORAGE, GARBAGE AND MECHANICAL EQUIPMENT IS AWAY FROM THE STREET.
Access to garages shall be from the ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE. Where garages must be front-loaded, they shall be set at
least 20 feet behind the front plane of the heated space of the house.
These principles define the goal and intent of the Peninsula Neighborhood Code. Refer to the following BUILDING
PLACEMENT STANDARDS for the specific requirements for each building site.
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THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD
for
ESTATE HOUSE SITES
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Estate House Sites
The principal building shall be between 12 and 35 ft to its Eaves. The
accessory building shall be no more than 18 ft to its Eaves.
The first floor finished elevation shall be between 30 and 60 inches above the
average RSBL elevation.
The principal building shall be
the REQUIRED
STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL). For EDGE LOTS designated on the
REGULATING PLAN with a RSBL2 the FRONT PORCH is optional and
buildings without FRONT PORCHES shall be
the RSBL2. The
minimum side Setbacks are 4 ft (one side) and 10ft (both sides combined).
The REGULATING PLAN may designate a required PRIVACY BUILDING
LINE (PBL) 4 ft off one COMMON LOT LINE (generally the North or East).
The garage, parking for vehicles shall be kept within the designated GarageParking area (except for EDGE LOTS where the garage door (and/or parking
area) shall be at least 20 ft behind the front of the porch or front building wall
if there is no porch or below grade). Any designated COMMON DRIVE
easements shall be respected -- consult with the TOWN ARCHITECT.
A FRONT PORCH, minimum 8 ft deep with a width no less than
of the
building width (not to include any Side Street frontage), is required along the
RSBL. For EDGE LOTS with a RSBL2 (see the REGULATING PLAN) the
FRONT PORCH is optional.
A PRIVACY FENCE, maximum 8 ft in height, may run the remainder of the
rear and COMMON LOT LINES (except within the FRONT YARD area
which may only have a FRONT YARD FENCE).
Residential, Bed and Breakfast Homestay, and Home Occupation (by right
subject to Iowa City Zoning Regulations) uses are permitted.
Parking, occupant's workshop, Home Occupation, and Accessory Unit uses
are permitted in the buildable area at the rear of the lot. (Enclosed, below
grade parking is permitted adjacent to the RSBL as
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SPECIFICATIONS: ESTATE HOUSE SITES
HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS:
Principal building height is measured from the highest REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL) elevation
(ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE frontage for accessory buildings) to the main eaves or other point specified on the
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD (BPS). FENCE and GARDEN WALL heights are measured from
adjacent sidewalk (within 5 feet); when not fronting a sidewalk, heights are relative to the adjacent ground. On
EDGE LOTS, height for accessory buildings will be measured relative to the adjacent ground elevation on the
STREET side of the accessory building.
SITING SPECIFICATIONS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
The building(s) shall occupy only the specified (hatched) area of the lot. No parts of the buildings (excepting
overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30''), steps (not more than 72") and chimneys (not more
than 30''), garden trellises and other light unroofed garden structures) shall occupy the remaining lot area.
No parts of any building excepting overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30”), steps (not more
than 72") and chimneys (not more than 30'') shall encroach past the RSBL toward the STREET.
The building (the FRONT PORCH) shall be built-to or within 3’ behind the specified RSBL for at least 40% of
the building width. For EDGE LOTS, with an RSBL2, the FRONT PORCH is optional. Buildings with no
FRONT PORCH shall be built-to the RSBL2 for at least 40% of the RSBL2 width. That portion of the building
shall be composed as a simple plane (limited facade jogs less than 24" and porches, STOOPS, BAY
WINDOWS, and balconies are considered to be within this "a simple plane" requirement). For non-rectangular
lots the percentage minimum shall be measured against the narrowest lot width within the BUILDABLE
AREA for the primary building (not to include the buildable area for any SIDE WING or accessory building).
At least 35% of the lot area, and all required side setbacks, shall remain open and unpaved and not be built
upon (nor used for parking) except for overhanging eaves, cantilevered balconies, BAY WINDOWS, stoops,
decks, chimneys, and additionally in the BACK YARD only gazebos, green houses and steps except where
otherwise specified in the Code.
The Garage/parking setback shall be measured from the ALLEY ROW or the COMMON DRIVE edge of
pavement except where noted otherwise on the REGULATING PLAN.
CORNER LOTS:
1.
2.
The SIDE STREET RSBL shall be built-to either by the building wall and/or PORCH for not less than 50% of
its length. That portion of the building wall shall be composed as a simple plane (limited jogs as listed above in
Siting Specifications are considered "a simple plane" within this requirement) When a wrap-around PORCH is
used; the building wall may step forward to the RSBL at the termination of the PORCH.
The fence requirements for CORNER LOTS additionally allow, where the lot OPEN SIDE fronts a SIDE
STREET, a PRIVACY FENCE along that FRONT AGE as a substitute for the required FRONT YARD
FENCE. This PRIVACY FENCE shall begin no closer than 20 feet from the corner (ROW intersection) of the
frontage STREET.
Lots where RSBL is curved: The required FRONT PORCH (or building facade along RSBL2 for edge lots with no
porch requirement) shall be aligned on a tangent to a curve. Where the lot face is convex to the porch the porch shall
touch the RSBL at 2 points (where concave it shall touch at 1 point).
ELEMENTS SPECIFICATIONS:
1.
2.
3.
All lots bordering an ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE shall use the ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE as the sole
means of automobile access to the parking areas, unless otherwise approved by the City.
Garage doors shall not face (be at an angle of less than 90 degrees from) the RSBL unless if they are located at
least 50 feet back from the RSBL, and parking areas (unenclosed) shall not be located within 20 feet of the
STREET unless hidden by a GARDEN WALL.
For EDGE LOTS designated on the REGULATING PLAN with a second REQUIRED STREET BUILDING
LINE (RSBL2), both the FRONT PORCH and FRONT YARD FENCE are optional. The principal building facade
(enclosed portion) shall be built-to this RSBL2.
HOME OCCUPATIONS: Home occupations are permitted subject to Zoning Regulations.
ACCESSORY UNITS: Accessory units are permitted by right. For such units, the owner of the principal structure shall
occupy at least one (1) of the units. Conversion of primary structure single-family units for multiple family uses is
prohibited.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
16
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD
for
PENINSULA HOUSE SITES
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
17
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
I.
J.
K.
Peninsula House Sites
The principal building shall be between 12 and 35 ft to its Eaves.
The accessory building shall be no more than 18 ft to its Eaves.
Any FRONT YARD FENCE shall be between 30 and 40 inches in height.
The first floor finished elevation shall be between 30 and 60 inches above the
average RSBL elevation.
The first story shall have at least 9 feet clear height for 80% of its area. The
second floor shall have at least 8 feet clear height for 80% of its area.
The principal building shall be
the REQUIRED
STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL). For EDGE LOTS with an RSBL2
designated on the Regulating Plan, the FRONT PORCH is optional and the
facade of buildings without FRONT PORCHES shall be
the RSBL2.
The minimum side Setback is 4 ft (one side).
The garage, parking for vehicles (autos, trailers, boats, etc.) shall be kept
within the designated Garage-Parking area (except for EDGE LOTS where the
garage door (and or parking area) shall be set at least 20 ft behind the front
building wall or below grade). Any designated COMMON DRIVE easements
shall be respected -- consult with the TOWN ARCHITECT.
A FRONT PORCH, between 8 ft and 14 ft deep with a width no less than 40%
of the building width, (not to include any SIDE STREET frontage), is required.
For designated EDGE LOTS (see the REGULATING PLAN) the FRONT
PORCH is optional.
The REGULATING PLAN may designate a required Privacy Building line
(PBL) 4 ft off the COMMON LOT LINE (generally North or East).
A PRIVACY FENCE, maximum 8 ft in height, may run the remainder of the
rear and COMMON LOT LINES (except within the FRONT YARD area
which may only have a FRONT YARD FENCE).
Residential, Bed and Breakfast Homestay, and Home Occupation (by right
subject to Iowa City Zoning Regulations) uses are permitted.
Parking, occupant's workshop, Home Occupation, and Accessory Unit uses are
permitted in the buildable area at the rear of the lot. (Enclosed, below grade
parking is permitted adjacent to the RSBL as well.)
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
18
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
SPECIFICATIONS: PENINSULA HOUSE SITES
HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS:
Principal building height is measured from the highest REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL) elevation
(ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE frontage for accessory buildings) to the main eaves or other point specified on the
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD (BPS). FENCE and GARDEN WALL heights are measured from
adjacent sidewalk (within 5 feet); when not fronting a sidewalk, heights are relative to the adjacent ground
elevation. On EDGE LOTS, height for accessory buildings will be measured relative to the adjacent ground
elevation on the STREET side of the accessory building.
SITING SPECIFICATIONS:
1.
The building(s) shall occupy only the specified (hatched) area of the lot. No parts of the buildings (excepting
overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), steps (not more than 72") and chimneys (not more
than 24"), garden trellises and other light unroofed garden structures) shall occupy the remaining lot area.
2. No parts of any building excepting overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), steps (not more
than 72") and chimneys (not more than 24") shall encroach past the RSBL.
3. The building (the FRONT PORCH) shall be built-to or within 3’ behind the specified RSBL for at least 40% of
the building width. For EDGE LOTS, with an RSBL2, the FRONT PORCH is optional. Buildings with no
FRONT PORCH shall be built-to the RSBL2 for at least 40% of the RSBL2 width. That portion of the building
shall be composed as a simple plane (limited facade jogs less than 24" and porches, chimneys (not more than
24"), STOOPS, BAY WINDOWS, and balconies are considered to be within this "a simple plane"
requirement). For non-rectangular lots the % minimum shall be measured against the narrowest lot width
within the buildable area for the primary building (not to include the buildable area for any SIDE WING or
accessory building).
4. At least 35% of the lot area, and all required side setbacks, shall remain open and unpaved and not be built
upon (nor used for parking) except for overhanging eaves, cantilevered balconies, stoops, BAY WINDOWS,
decks, chimneys, and additionally in the BACK YARD only, decks, gazebos, green houses and steps except
where otherwise specified in the Code.
5. The Garage/parking setback shall be measured from the ALLEY ROW or the COMMON DRIVE edge of
pavement except where noted otherwise on the REGULATING PLAN.
CORNER LOTS:
1. The side street RSBL shall be built-to either by the building wall and/or porch for not less than 50% of its
length. That portion of the building wall shall be composed as a simple plane (limited jogs as listed above in
Siting Specifications are considered "a simple plane" within this requirement) When a wrap-around porch is
used; the building wall may step forward to the RSBL at the termination of the porch.
2. The fence requirements for corner lots additionally allow, where the open side of a lot fronts a side street, a
privacy fence along that frontage as a substitute for the required front yard fence. This privacy fence shall begin
no closer than 20 feet from the corner (ROW intersection) of the frontage street.
Lots where RSBL is curved: The required FRONT PORCH (or building facade along RSBL2 for edge lots with no
porch requirement) shall be aligned on a tangent to a curve. Where the lot face is convex to the porch, the porch
shall touch the RSBL at 2 points (where concave it shall touch at1 point).
ELEMENTS SPECIFICATIONS:
1. All lots bordering an ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE shall use the ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE as the sole
means of automobile access to the parking areas, unless otherwise approved by the City.
2. Garage doors shall not face the RSBL (they must be at an angle of not less than 90 degrees from the RSBL)
unless they are located at least 50 feet back from the RSBL. Unenclosed parking areas shall not be located
within 20 feet of the STREET unless hidden by a GARDEN WALL.
3. For EDGE LOTS designated on the REGULATING PLAN with a second REQUIRED STREET BUILDING
LINE (RSBL2) both the FRONT PORCH and FRONT YARD FENCE are optional. The principal building
facade (enclosed portion) shall be built-to this RSBL2.
HOME OCCUPATIONS: Home occupations are permitted subject to Zoning Regulations.
ACCESSORY UNITS: Accessory units are permitted by right. For such units, the owner of the principal structure shall
occupy at least one (1) of the units. Conversion of primary structure single-family units for multiple family uses is
prohibited.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
19
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD
for
COTTAGE SITES
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
20
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
M.
L.
N.
Cottage Sites
The principal building shall be between 12 and 35 ft to its Eaves.
The accessory building shall be no more than 18 ft to its Eaves.
Any SIDEWING shall be no more than 15 ft to its Eaves.
The FRONT YARD FENCE shall be between 30 and 40 inches in
height.
The FRONT PORCH floor elevation shall be between 28 and 60 inches
above the average RSBL elevation.
The first story shall have at least 9 feet clear height for 80% of its area.
The second floor shall have at least 8 feet clear height for 80% of its
area.
The principal building shall be
STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL),
REGULATING PLAN.
The minimum side Setback is 4 ft
as
the REQUIRED
designated on the
The REGULATING PLAN may designate a required PRIVACY
BUILDING LINE (PBL) 4 feet off one COMMON LOT LINE
(generally North or East).
The garage, vehicle parking (autos, trailers, boats, etc.) shall be kept
within the designated Garage-Parking area. (Enclosed, below grade
parking is permitted adjacent to the RSBL as well.)
A FRONT PORCH, between 8 ft and 12 ft deep with a width equal
to no less than 50% of the building width (not to include any SIDE
STREET
frontage), is required along the RSBL.
A PRIVACY FENCE, between 6 and 8 ft in height, shall run the
remainder of the rear and COMMON LOT LINES (except within the
FRONT YARD area which may only have a FRONT YARD FENCE).
Residential, Bed and Breakfast Homestay, and Home Occupation (by
right subject to Iowa City Zoning Regulations) uses are permitted.
Parking, occupant's workshop, Home Occupation, and ACCESSORY
UNIT uses are permitted in the buildable area at the rear of the lot.
(Enclosed, below grade parking is permitted adjacent to the RSBL as
well)
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
21
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
SPECIFICATIONS: COTTAGE SITES
HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS:
Principal building height is measured from the highest REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL) elevation
(ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE frontage for accessory buildings) to the main eaves or other point specified on the
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD (BPS). FENCE and GARDEN WALL heights are measured from
adjacent sidewalk (within 5 feet); when not fronting a sidewalk, heights are relative to the adjacent ground
elevation. On EDGE LOTS, height for accessory buildings will be measured relative to the adjacent ground
elevation on the STREET side of the accessory building.
SITING SPECIFICATIONS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
The buildings shall occupy only the specified (hatched) area of the lot. No parts of the buildings (excepting
overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), steps (not more than 72") and chimneys (not more
than 24") garden trellises and other light and unroofed garden structures) shall occupy the remaining lot area.
No parts of any buildings excepting overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), steps (not more
than 72") and chimneys (not more than 24") shall encroach past the RSBL
The building (the FRONT PORCH) shall be built-to or within 3’ behind the specified RSBL for at least 50% of
the building width. That portion of the building shall be composed as a simple plane (limited facade jogs less
than 24" and porches, and chimneys (not more than 24"), STOOPS, BAY WINDOWS, and balconies are
considered to be "a simple plane" within this requirement). For non-rectangular lots the 50% minimum shall be
measured against the narrowest lot width within the buildable area for the primary building (not to include the
buildable area for any SIDE WING or accessory building).
The SIDE STREET RSBL shall be built-to either by the building wall and/or PORCH for not less than 50% of
its length. That portion of the building wall shall be composed as a simple plane (limited jogs, as listed above in
Siting Specifications, are considered "a simple plane" within this requirement). When a wrap-around PORCH
is used; the building wall may step forward to the RSBL at the termination of the PORCH.
At least 25% of the lot area, and all required side setbacks, shall remain open and unpaved and not be built
upon (nor used for parking) except for overhanging eaves, cantilevered balconies, stoops, BAY WINDOWS
(not more than 30"), chimneys (not more than 30"), wood decks, and in the rear only, gazebos, green houses
and steps except where otherwise specified in the Code.
The Garage/parking setback shall be measured from the ALLEY ROW or the COMMON DRIVE edge of
pavement except where noted otherwise on the REGULATING PLAN.
Lots where the RSBL is curved: the required FRONT PORCH shall be aligned on a tangent to the curve.
Where the lot face is convex to the porch the porch shall touch the RSBL at 2 points (where concave it shall
touch at 1 point).
CORNER LOTS: The fence requirements additionally allow a PRIVACY FENCE along the SIDE STREET
FRONTAGE as a substitute for the required FRONT YARD FENCE. This PRIVACY FENCE shall begin no closer
than 20 feet from the comer (ROW intersection) of the frontage STREET
ELEMENTS SPECIFICATIONS:
1.
2.
All lots bordering an ALLEY shall use the ALLEY as the sole means of automobile access, unless otherwise
approved by the City.
Garage doors shall not face the RSBL. They must be at an angle of not less than 90 degrees from the RSBL.
Unenclosed parking areas shall not be located within 20 feet of the STREET unless hidden by a GARDEN
WALL.
HOME OCCUPATIONS: Home occupations are permitted subject to Zoning Regulations.
ACCESSORY UNITS: ACCESSORY UNITS are permitted by right. For such units, the owner of the principal structure
shall occupy at least one (1) of the units. Conversion of primary structure single-family units for multiple family
uses is prohibited.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
22
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD
for
COTTAGE FLATS SITES
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
23
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
COTTAGE FLATS SITES
The principal building shall be between 12 and 35 ft to its Eaves.
The accessory building shall be no more than 18 ft to its Eaves.
Any SIDEWING shall be no more than 15 ft to its Eaves.
The FRONT YARD FENCE shall be between 30 and 40 inches in
height.
The FRONT PORCH floor elevation shall be between 28 and 60
inches above the average RSBL elevation .
The first and second stories shall have at least 9 feet clear
height for not less than 75 % of their area.
The principal building shall be
the
REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL), as designated
on the REGULATING PLAN. The minimum side Setback is 4 ft.
The REGULATING PLAN may designate a required PRIVACY
BUILDING LINE (PBL) 4 feet off one COMMON LOT LINE
(generally North or East).
The garage, vehicle parking (autos, trailers, boats, etc.) shall be
kept within the designated Garage-Parking area and! or enclosed
and below grade.
A FRONT PORCH, between 8 ft and 12 ft deep with a width no
less than 50% of the building width (not to include any SIDE
STREET frontage), is required along the RSBL.
A PRIVACY FENCE, between 6 and 8 ft in height, shall run the
remainder of the rear and COMMON LOT LINES (except within
the FRONT YARD area which may only have a FRONT YARD
FENCE).
Residential, Bed and Breakfast Homestay, and Home Occupation
(by right subject to Iowa City Zoning Regulations) uses are
permitted.
Parking, occupant's workshop, Home Occupation, and
ACCESSORY UNIT uses are permitted in the buildable area at the
rear of the lot. (Enclosed, below grade parking is permitted
adjacent to the RSBL as well.)
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
24
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
SPECIFICATIONS: COTTAGE FLAT SITES
HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS:
Principal building height is measured from the highest REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL) elevation
(ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE frontage for accessory buildings) to the main eaves or other point specified on the
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD (BPS). FENCE and GARDEN WALL heights are measured from
adjacent sidewalk (within 5 feet); when not fronting a sidewalk, heights are relative to the adjacent ground
elevation. On EDGE LOTS, height for accessory buildings will be measured relative to the adjacent ground
elevation on the STREET side of the accessory building.
SITING SPECIFICATIONS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
The buildings shall occupy only the specified (hatched) area of the lot. No parts of the buildings (excepting
overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), steps (not more than 72") and chimneys (not more
than 24") garden trellises and other light and unroofed garden structures) shall occupy the remaining lot area.
No parts of any buildings excepting overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), steps (not more
than 72") and chimneys (not more than 24") shall encroach past the RSBL
The building (the FRONT PORCH) shall be built-to or within 3’ behind the specified RSBL for at least 50% of
the building width. That portion of the building shall be composed as a simple plane (limited facade jogs less
than 24" and porches, and chimneys (not more than 24"), STOOPS, BAY WINDOWS, and balconies are
considered to be "a simple plane" within this requirement). For non-rectangular lots the 50% minimum shall be
measured against the narrowest lot width within the buildable area depth for the primary building (not to
include the buildable area for any SIDE WING or accessory building).
The SIDE STREET RSBL shall be built-to either by the building wall and/or PORCH for not less than 50% of
its length. That portion of the building wall shall be composed as a simple plane (limited jogs, as listed above in
Siting Specifications, are considered "a simple plane" within this requirement). When a wrap-around PORCH
is used; the building wall may step forward to the RSBL at the termination of the PORCH.
At least 25% of the lot area, and all required side setbacks, shall remain open and unpaved and not be built
upon (nor used for parking) except for overhanging eaves, cantilevered balconies, stoops, BAY WINDOWS
(not more than 30"), chimneys (not more than 2430"), wood or decks, and in the rear only, gazebos, green
houses and steps except where otherwise specified in the Code.
The Garage/parking setback shall be measured from the ALLEY ROW or the COMMON DRIVE edge of
pavement except where noted otherwise on the REGULATING PLAN.
Lots where the RSBL is curved: the required FRONT PORCH shall be aligned on a tangent to the curve.
Where the lot face is convex to the porch the porch shall touch the RSBL at 2 points (where concave it shall
touch at 1 point).
CORNER LOTS: The fence requirements additionally allow a PRIVACY FENCE along the SIDE STREET
FRONTAGE as a substitute for the required FRONT YARD FENCE. This PRIVACY FENCE shall begin no
closer than 20 feet from the corner (ROW intersection) of the frontage STREET.
ELEMENTS SPECIFICATIONS:
1.
2.
All lots bordering an ALLEY shall use the ALLEY as the sole means of automobile access, unless otherwise
approved by the City.
Garage doors shall not face the RSBL. They must be at an angle of not less than 90 degrees from the RSBL.
Unenclosed parking areas shall not be located within 20 feet of the STREET unless hidden from the street by a
garden wall.
HOME OCCUPATIONS: Home occupations are permitted subject to Zoning Regulations.
HOUSING UNITS: Two dwelling units, within the principle building envelope restrictions of the COTTAGE FLATS
SITES BUILDING ENVELOPE STANDARDS, are permitted by right.
ACCESSORY UNITS: ACCESSORY UNITS are permitted by right. For such units, an owner shall occupy at least one (I)
of the units. Conversion of primary structure two-family units for multiple family uses is prohibited.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
25
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD
for
TOWNHOUSE SITES
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
26
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
Townhouses
The principal building shall be between 18 ft and 35 ft to its Eaves.
The accessory building shall be no more than 18 ft to its Eaves.
Any Sidewing shall be no more than 15 ft to its Eaves.
The Front Porch floor elevation shall be between 28 and 60 inches above
the fronting RSBL elevation.
The first story shall have at least 9 feet clear height for 80% of its area.
The second floor shall have at least 8 feet clear height for 80% of its area.
For each unit: the FRONT PORCH shall be
REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL).
the
SIDEWING area construction shall be
the PRIVACY BUILDING
LINE (PBL) (generally the North or East side).
The unit width shall be between 18 ft and 30 ft. A maximum of 6 units
shall comprise one building. There shall be a minimum 10ft gap between
buildings where multiple buildings are built (except where otherwise
designated on the REGULATING PLAN).
The garage, vehicle parking (autos, trailers, boats, etc.) shall be kept
within the designated Garage-Parking area (and/or as designated on the
REGULATING PLAN or enclosed and below grade).
A FRONT PORCH is required for each unit.
The FRONT PORCH, between 8 ft and 12 ft deep with a width no less
than 50% of the unit width (not to include any SIDE STREET RSBL),
shall
be Built the REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL).
PRIVACY FENCING, between 6 and 8 ft in height, shall be placed
along any unbuilt rear and COMMON LOT LINES (excluding
Rowhouse sites with no BACK YARD or courtyard area).
Residential, Home Occupation, and Bed and Breakfast Homestay uses
are permitted on all floors.
Ground Floor and Basement space may additionally include
Neighborhood Commercial uses by right (see attached Specifications).
Parking, occupant's workshop, Home Occupations, and Accessory Unit
«500 Sq Ft) uses are permitted in the buildable area at the rear of the lot.
(Enclosed, below grade parking is permitted adjacent to the RSBL as
well.)
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
27
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
SPECIFICATIONS: TOWNHOUSE SITES
HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS: Principal building height is measured from the highest REQUIRED STREET BUILDING
LINE (RSBL) elevation (ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE frontage for accessory buildings) to the main eaves or
other point specified on the BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD (BPS). FENCE and GARDEN WALL
heights are measured from adjacent sidewalk (within 5 feet); when not fronting a sidewalk, heights are relative to
the adjacent ground elevation. On EDGE LOTS, height for accessory buildings will be measured relative to the
adjacent ground elevation on the STREET side of the accessory building.
SITING SPECIFICATIONS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
The buildings shall occupy only the specified (hatched) area of the lot. No part of any building (excepting
overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), steps (not more than 72") and chimneys (not more
than 24") garden trellises and other light unroofed garden structures) shall occupy the remaining lot area.
No parts of any building excepting overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS, steps (not more than 72") and
chimneys (not more than 24") shall encroach past the RSBL.
Each unit of the building (its FRONT PORCH) shall be built-to or within 3’ feet behind the RSBL for at least 50%
of the unit's width (measured on a per-unit basis). That portion of the building facade shall be composed as a
simple plane (limited facade jogs less than 24" and PORCHES, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"deep),
chimneys (not more than 24"), STOOPS, and balconies are considered to be "a simple plane" within this
requirement).
The SIDE STREET RSBL shall be built-to either by the building wall and/or PORCH for not less than 65% of
its length. That portion of the building wall shall be composed as a simple plane (limited facade jogs as listed
above in Siting Specifications are considered to be "a simple plane" within this requirement) When a wraparound PORCH is used; the building wall may step forward to the RSBL at the termination of the PORCH.
NON-RECTANGULAR LOT MEASUREMENTS: the unit width parameters and PORCH minimums shall be
measured at the mid-point of the buildable area depth for the primary building (not to include the buildable area
for any SIDE WING or accessory building).
At least 15% of the lot area, and all required side setbacks, shall remain open and not be built upon except for
overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"deep), chimneys (not more than 30"), STOOPS,
cantilevered balconies, stoops, wood or composite decks and steps except where otherwise specified in the
Code.
Garage/parking setback shall be measured from the nearest ALLEY ROW or the COMMON DRIVE edge of
pavement except where noted otherwise on the REGULATING PLAN.
CORNER LOTS: The fence requirements for CORNER LOTS additionally allow, where the OPEN SIDE of a lot
fronts a SIDE STREET, a PRIVACY FENCE along that FRONT AGE as a substitute for the required FRONT
YARD FENCE. This PRIVACY FENCE shall begin no closer than 20 feet from the comer (ROW intersection)
of the frontage STREET.
Lots where the RSBL is curved: the FRONT PORCH or facade shall be aligned on a tangent to the curve.
Where the lot face is convex to the porch the porch shall touch the RSBL at 2 points (where concave it shall
touch at I point).
ELEMENTS SPECIFICATIONS: 1) All lots bordering an ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE shall use the ALLEY or
COMMON DRIVE as the sole means of automobile access to designated parking spaces, unless otherwise approved
by the City. 2) Garage doors shall not face the RSBL. They must be at an angle of not less than 90 degrees from the
RSBL. Unenclosed parking areas shall not be located within 20 feet of the STREET unless hidden by a GARDEN
WALL or enclosed and below grade.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL USES: The following uses are permitted by right: 1) Retail or personal service
establishments limited to the ground floor space within the existing structure. 2) Adult or child care homes. 3) Bed
and Breakfast Homestays. 4) Offices limited to dental practices, general medical practices, insurance, real estate or
travel agencies, accounting practices and law offices, limited to ground floor space within the existing structure.
PARKING: Iowa City Zoning Code Section 14-5A-5 H.4.i. restricting the number of parking spaces that may back
onto an ALLEY, may be waived if the site plan demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Building Official that parking
spaces are configured so as not to impede traffic on the ALLEY. Off-street parking spaces for Neighborhood
Commercial Uses are not required for the first 1500 square feet of floor area. Any Neighborhood Commercial Use
that exceeds 1500 square feet of floor area shall be required to provide parking spaces according to Section 14-5A-4
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
28
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
for the area in excess of 1500 square feet of floor area unless a reduction of required number of off-street parking
spaces is granted per Section 14-5A-4 F.
HOME OCCUPATIONS: Home occupations are permitted subject to Zoning Regulations.
ACCESSORY UNITS: Accessory units are permitted by right. For such units, the owner of the principal structure
shall occupy at least one (1) of the units. Conversion of primary structure single-family units for multiple family
uses is prohibited.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
29
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD
for
ROWHOUSE SITES
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
30
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
Rowhouse Sites
The principal building shall be between 18 ft and 35 ft to its Eaves.
The accessory building shall be no more than 18 ft to its Eaves.
Any SIDEWING shall be no more than 15 ft to its Eaves.
The FRONT PORCH or STOOP finished floor elevation shall be between
28 and 60 inches above the average fronting RSBL elevation.
The first story shall have at least 9 feet clear height for 80% of its area.
The second floor shall have at least 8 feet clear height for 80% of its area.
For each unit Either the FRONT PORCH or, on buildings without FRONT
PORCHES, the building facade shall be
the
REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL).
SIDEWING area construction shall be
the PRlVACY BUILDING
LINE (PBL) (generally the North or East side).
The unit width shall be between 18 ft and 30 ft. A maximum of 6 units
shall comprise one building. There shall be a minimum 10ft gap between
buildings where multiple buildings are built (except where otherwise
designated on the REGULATING PLAN).
The garage, vehicle parking (autos, trailers, boats, etc.) shall be kept
within the designated Garage-Parking area (and/or as designated on
the REGULATING PLAN or enclosed and below Grade ).
A FRONT PORCH or STOOP is required for each unit.
A FRONT PORCH, between 8 ft and 12 ft deep with a width no less than
50% of the unit width (not to include any SIDE STREET RSBL), shall be
the REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL). A STOOP
not more than 5 ft deep and 6 ft wide (parallel to the RSBL) plus steps
shall be built forward of the RSBL.
PRIVACY FENCING, between 6 and 8 ft in height, shall be placed along
any unbuilt rear and COMMON LOT LINES (excluding Rowhouse sites
with no BACK YARD or courtyard area).
Residential, Home Occupation, and Bed and Breakfast Homestay
uses are permitted on all floors.
Ground Floor and Basement space may additionally include
Neighborhood Commercial uses by right (see attached
Specifications).
Parking, occupant's workshop, Home Occupations, and Accessory
Unit «500 Sq Ft) uses are permitted in the buildable area at the
of the lot. (Enclosed, below grade parking is permitted
adjacent to the RSBL as well.)
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
31
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
SPECIFICATIONS: ROWHOUSE SITES
HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS: Principal building height is measured from the highest REQUIRED STREET BUILDING
LINE (RSBL) elevation (ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE frontage for accessory buildings) to the main eaves or other
point specified on the BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD (BPS). FENCE and GARDEN WALL heights are
measured from adjacent sidewalk (within 5 feet); when not fronting a sidewalk, heights are relative to the adjacent
ground elevation. On EDGE LOTS, height for accessory buildings will be measured relative to the adjacent ground
elevation on the STREET side of the accessory building.
SITING SPECIFICATIONS:
1. The buildings shall occupy only the specified (hatched) area of the lot. No part of any building (excepting
overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), steps (not more than 72") and chimneys (not more
than 24") garden trellises and other light unroofed garden structures) shall occupy the remaining lot area.
2. No parts of any building excepting overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS, steps (not more than 72") and
chimneys (not more than 24") shall encroach past the RSBL
3. Each unit of the building shall be built-to or within 3’ behind the RSBL for the minimum specified percentage
of the RSBL frontage: 50% for units with FRONT PORCHES, (measuring the PORCH), 85% for units without,
(measuring the facade),. That portion of the building shall be composed as a simple plane (limited facade jogs
less than 24" and PORCHES, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"deep), chimneys (not more than 24"),
STOOPS, and balconies are considered to be "a simple plane" within this requirement).
4. The SIDE STREET RSBL shall be built-to either by the building wall and/or PORCH for not less than 65% of
its length. That portion of the building wall shall be composed as a simple plane (limited facade jogs as listed
above in Siting Specifications are considered to be "a simple plane" within this requirement) When a wraparound PORCH is used; the building wall may step forward to the RSBL at the termination of the PORCH.
5. NON-RECTANGULAR LOT MEASUREMENTS: the unit width parameters and PORCH minimums shall be
measured at the mid-point of the buildable area depth for the primary building (not to include the buildable area
for any SIDE WING or accessory building).
6. At least 15% of the lot area, and all required side setbacks, shall remain open and not be built upon except for
overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"deep), chimneys (not more than 24"), STOOPS,
cantilevered balconies, stoops, wood or composite decks and steps except where otherwise specified in the
Code.
7. The Garage/parking setback shall be measured from the nearest ALLEY ROW or the COMMON DRIVE edge
of pavement except where noted otherwise on the REGULATING PLAN.
8. CORNER LOTS: The fence requirements for CORNER LOTS additionally allow, where the OPEN SIDE of a lot
fronts a SIDE STREET, a PRIVACY FENCE along that FRONTAGE as a substitute for the required FRONT
YARD FENCE. This PRIVACY FENCE shall begin no closer than 20 feet from the comer (ROW intersection)
of the frontage STREET.
9. Lots where the RSBL is curved: the FRONT PORCH or facade shall be aligned on a tangent to the curve.
Where the lot face is convex to the porch the porch shall touch the RSBL at 2 points (where concave it shall
touch at 1 point).
ELEMENTS SPECIFICATIONS: 1) All lots bordering an ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE shall use the ALLEY or
COMMON DRIVE as the sole means of automobile access to designated parking spaces, unless otherwise approved
by the City. 2) Garage doors shall not face the RSBL. They must be at an angle of not less than 90 degrees from the
RSBL. Unenclosed parking areas shall not be located within 20 feet of the STREET unless hidden by a GARDEN
WALL.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL USES: The following uses are permitted by right: I) Retail or personal service
establishments limited to the ground floor space within the existing structure. 2) Adult or child care homes. 3) Bed
and Breakfast Homestays. 4) Offices limited to dental practices, general medical practices, insurance, real estate or
travel agencies, accounting practices and law offices, limited to ground floor space within the existing structure.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
32
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
PARKING: Iowa City Zoning Code Section 14-5A-5 H.4.i. restricting the number of parking spaces that may back
onto an ALLEY, may be waived if the site plan demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Building Official that parking
spaces are configured so as not to impede traffic on the ALLEY. Off-street parking spaces for Neighborhood
Commercial Uses are not required for the first 1500 square feet of floor area. Any Neighborhood Commercial Use
that exceeds 1500 square feet of floor area shall be required to provide parking spaces according to Section 14-5A4for the area in excess of 1500 square feet of floor area unless a reduction of required number of off-street parking
spaces is granted per Section 14-5A-4 F .
HOME OCCUPATIONS: Home occupations are permitted subject to Zoning Regulations.
ACCESSORY UNITS: ACCESSORY UNITS are permitted by right. For such units, the owner of the principal structure
shall occupy at least one (1) of the units. Conversion of primary structure single-family units for multiple family
uses is prohibited.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
33
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD
for
LIVE WORK SITES
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
34
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
Live Work Sites
The principal building shall be between 18 ft and 40 ft to its Eaves.
The accessory building shall be no more than 18 ft to its Eaves.
Any SIDEWING shall be no more than 15 ft to its Eaves.
The ground floor elevation shall be between 3 and 18 inches above
the average adjacent sidewalk elevation.
The first story shall have at least 10 feet clear height for no less than
80% of its area. All second and third stories shall have at least 9 feet
clear height for no less than
of their area.
The principal building shall be
the
REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL), as designated
on the REGULATING PLAN.
SIDEWING AREA construction shall be
the PRIVACY
BUILDING LINE (PBL) generally the North or East side).
The unit width shall be between 18 ft and 30 ft. maximum of 8
units shall be contiguous as a single building. There shall be a
minimum 10 ft gap between buildings where multiple Live Work
buildings are built (except where otherwise designated on the
REGULATING PLAN.
The garage, vehicle parking (autos, trailers, boats, etc.) shall be
kept within the designated Garage-Parking area (and/or as
designated
the REGULATING PLAN.
Where provided, any Storefront Colonnade/Porch, shall be
between 8 ft and 12 ft deep with a minimum width of 75% of the
RSBL (not to include any SIDE STREET RSBL) and a minimum
clear height of 10 feet aligned along the REQUIRED STREET
BUILDING LINE (RSBL).
Such Storefront Colonnade/Porches shall exist only in
contiguous groupings of 4 (units) or more. These may step
forward of the RSBL provided there is a continuous public
access easement of at least 4 feet running through them and
provided that such an encroachment does not extend over the
ROW.
Residential, Home Occupation, and Bed and Breakfast Homestay
uses are permitted on all floors.
Ground Floor and Basement space may additionally include
Neighborhood Commercial uses by right (see attached
Specifications).
Parking, occupant's workshop, Home Occupations, and
Accessory Unit (<650 Sq Ft) uses are permitted in the buildable
area at the rear of the lot.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
35
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
SPECIFICATIONS: LIVE WORK SITES
HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS:
Principal building height is measured from the highest REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL)
elevation (ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE frontage for accessory buildings) to the main eaves or other point
specified in this BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD (BPS). FENCE and GARDEN WALL heights are
measured from adjacent sidewalk (within 5 feet); when not fronting a sidewalk, heights are relative adjacent
ground elevation. The ground story finished floor elevation shall be between 3 and 18 inches above the average,
adjacent sidewalk elevation and shall have a minimum 10 ft clear height.
SITING SPECIFICATIONS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
The buildings shall occupy only the specified (hatched) area of the lot. No part of any building (excepting
overhanging caves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), steps (not more than 72") and chimneys (not more
than 24"), garden trellises and other light and unroofed garden structures shall occupy the remaining lot area.
No parts of any building excepting overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not permitted on the ground story
front facade and in no case not more than 30"), steps (not marc than 30") and chimneys (not more than 24")
shall encroach past the RSBL.
Each unit of the building shall be built-to or within 3’ behind the RSBL for at least 75% of the unit’s RSBL
frontage width (measured on a per-unit basis). That portion of the building shall be composed as a simple plane
(limited facade jogs less than 24" and porches, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), chimneys (not more than
24"), STOOPS, and balconies are considered to be "a simple plane" within this requirement).
The SIDE STREET RSBL shall be built-to either by the building wall and/or PORCH for not less than 60% of
its length. That portion of the building wall shall be composed as a simple plane (limited facade jogs as listed
above in Siting Specifications are considered to be "a simple plane" within this requirement) When a wraparound PORCH is used; the building wall may step forward to the RSBL at the termination of the PORCH.
NON-RECTANGULAR LOT MEASUREMENTS: the unit width parameters and PORCH minimums shall be
measured at the mid-point of the buildable area depth for the primary building (not to include the buildable area
for any SIDE WING or accessory building).
At least 10% of the lot area, and all required side setbacks, shall remain open and n.it be built upon except for
overhanging eaves, cantilevered balconies, stoops, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), chimneys (not more
than 24"), wood or composite decks and steps -- except where otherwise specified in the Code.
The Garage/parking setback shall be measured from the ALLEY ROW or the COMMON DRIVE edge of
pavement except where noted otherwise on the REGULATING PLAN.
CORNER LOTS: The fence requirements for CORNER LOTS additionally allow, where the OPEN SIDE of a lot
fronts a SIDE STREET, a PRIVACY FENCE along that FRONTAGE as a substitute for the required FRONT
YARD FENCE. This PRIVACY FENCE shall begin no closer than 20 feet from the corner (ROW intersection)
of the frontage STREET.
ELEMENTS SPECIFICATIONS:
1.
2.
All lots bordering an alley or common drive shall use the ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE as the sole means of
automobile access to designated parking spaces, unless otherwise approved by the City.
Garage doors shall not face the RSBL. They must be at an angle of not less than 90 degrees from the RSBL.
Unenclosed parking areas shall not be located within 20 feet of the STREET unless hidden by a GARDEN
WALL, or below the fronting RSBL grade.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL USES:
The following uses are permitted by right:
1. Retail or personal service establishments limited to the ground floor space within the existing structure.
2. Adult or child care homes.
3. Bed and Breakfast Homestays.
4. Offices limited to dental practices, general medical practices, insurance, real estate or travel agencies,
accounting practices and law offices, limited to ground floor space within the existing structure.
Eating and Drinking Establishments maybe permitted by special exception on Lot 117.
PARKING: Iowa City Zoning Code Section 14-5A-5 H.4.i. restricting the number of parking spaces that may back
onto an ALLEY, may be waived if the site plan demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Building Official that
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
36
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
parking spaces are configured so as not to impede traffic on the ALLEY. Off-street parking spaces for
Neighborhood Commercial Uses are not required for the first 1500 square feet of floor area. Any Neighborhood
Commercial Use that exceeds 1500 square feet of floor area shall be required to provide parking spaces
according to Section 14-5A-4 for the area in excess of 1500 square feet of floor area unless a reduction of
required number of off-street parking spaces is granted per Section 14-5A-4 F .
HOME OCCUPATIONS: Home occupations are permitted subject to Zoning Regulations.
ACCESSORY UNITS: ACCESSORY UNITS are permitted by right. Conversion of primary structure single-family units
for multiple family uses is prohibited.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
37
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD
for
SMALL APARTMENT SITES
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
38
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
Small Apartment Sites
The principal building shall be between 22 ft and 48 ft to its Eaves.
Any accessory building or SIDEWING shall be no more than 15 ft to
its Eaves or parapet -- except where fronting a STREET, where it may
be up to 25 ft to its eaves or parapet.
Any unbuilt STREET FRONTAGE or COMMON LOT LINE shall
have a GARDEN WALL or PRIVACY FENCE along it, between 6 ft
and 8 ft in height.
The first floor finished elevation shall be between 28 inches and 66
inches above the average fronting RSBL.
The first story shall have at least 9 feet clear height for 80% of its area.
The second floor shall have at least 8 feet clear height for 80% of its
area.
The building shall be Built-To not less than 50% of the REQUIRED
STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL) which is designated in the
REGULATING PLAN. There are no required side setbacks.
The maximum building width along the STREET FRONTAGE is 170
ft. Not less than 10% o the Lot area shall be a contiguous BACK
YARD,
Any unbuilt STREET FRONTAGE or COMMON LOT LINE shall
have a GARDEN WALL or
VACY FENCE along it, between 6 ft
and 8 ft in height.
The garage, parking for vehicles (autos, trailers, boats, etc.) and
garbage bins shall be at least 20 ft from any STREET. FRONTAGE
and not clearly visible from the STREET.
FRONT PORCHES are permitted, between 8 and 14 feet deep and at
least 33% of the building width. Alternately, a roofed Balcony is
permitted on the 2nd & 3rd Floor units, between 5 and 7 ft deep and 6
and 10ft wide.
Parking, garages, and accessory uses may be placed to the rear of the
lot. Parking shall be no closer than 20 ft to any STREET FRONTAGE
unless hidden by a GARDEN WALL at least 4 ft in height or below
grade. Unenclosed parking shall be separated from adjacent less
intense building type by a GARDEN WALL type PRIVACY FENCE.
Residential, Home Occupation, and Bed and Breakfast Homestay uses
are permitted on all floors,
First Floor and Basement space may additionally include
Neighborhood Commercial uses by right (see attached Specifications).
Parking, garages, and accessory uses may be placed are permitted in
the buildable area at the rear of the lot. Parking shall be no closer than
20 ft to any STREET FRONTAGE and separated from adjacent use by
a GARDEN WALL or enclosed and below grade.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
39
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
SPECIFICATIONS: SMALL APARTMENT SITES
HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS:
Principal building height is measured from the highest REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL) elevation
(ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE frontage for accessory buildings) to the main eaves or other point specified on the
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD (BPS). FENCE and GARDEN WALL heights are measured from
adjacent sidewalk (within 5 feet); when not fronting a sidewalk, heights are relative to the adjacent ground elevation.
On EDGE LOTS, height for accessory buildings will be measured relative to the adjacent ground elevation on the
STREET side of the accessory building.
SITING SPECIFICATIONS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
The building(s) shall occupy only the specified area of the lot. No part of any building (excepting overhanging
eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), steps (not more than 72") and chimneys (not more than 30"),
garden trellises and other light and unroofed garden structures) shall occupy the remaining lot area.
No parts of any building excepting overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), steps (not more
than 72") and chimneys (not more than 30") shall encroach past the RSBL.
The building shall be built-to the specified RSBL for at least 50% of the RSBL width. That portion of the
building shall be composed as a simple plane (limited facade jogs less than 24" and porches, BAY WINDOWS
(not more than 30"), chimneys (not more than 30"), STOOPS, and balconies are considered to be "a simple
plane" within this requirement). For non-rectangular lots the 50% minimum shall be measured against the
narrowest lot width within the first 30 feet of the buildable area.
The SIDE STREET RSBL shall be built-to either by the building wall and/or PORCH for not less than 50% of
its length. That portion of the building wall shall be composed as a simple plane (limited facade jogs, as listed
above in Siting Specifications, are considered to be "a simple plane" within this requirement) When a wraparound PORCH is used; the building wall may step forward to the RSBL at the termination of the PORCH.
At least 25% of the lot area, and all required side setbacks, shall remain open and not built upon except for
overhanging eaves,
cantilevered balconies, stoops, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), chimneys (not more than 30"), and decks
except where the Code specifies otherwise.
The Garage/parking setback shall be measured from the ALLEY ROW or the COMMON DRIVE edge of
pavement.
The fence requirements for CORNER LOTS additionally allow a PRIVACY FENCE along the SIDE STREET
FRONTAGE as a substitute for the required FRONT YARD FENCE. This PRIVACY FENCE shall begin no
closer than 20 feet from the corner (ROW intersection) of the frontage STREET.
ELEMENTS SPECIFICATIONS:
1.
2.
3.
All lots bordering an ALLEY or common drive shall use the ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE as the sole means
of automobile access to designated parking spaces, unless otherwise approved by the City.
Garage doors shall not face the RSBL. They must be at an angle of not less than 90 degrees from the RSBL.
Unenclosed parking areas shall not be located within 20 feet of the STREET unless hidden by a GARDEN
WALL, or below the fronting RSBL grade.
If a balcony is used, the roof requirement can be satisfied if the balcony is directly below, and posting up to,
another roofed balcony.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL USES: The following uses are permitted by right:
1. Retail or personal service establishments limited to the ground floor space within the existing structure.
2. Adult or child care homes.
3. Bed and Breakfast Homestays.
4. Offices limited to dental practices, general medical practices, insurance, real estate or travel agencies,
accounting practices and law offices, limited to ground floor space within the existing structure.
PARKING:
1.
Iowa City Zoning Code Section 14-6N-l B2g restricting the number of parking spaces that may back onto an
alley, may be waived if the site plan demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Building Official that parking spaces
are configured so as not to impede traffic on the alley.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
40
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
2.
Off-street parking spaces for Neighborhood Commercial Uses are not required for the first 1500 square feet of
floor area. Any Neighborhood Commercial Use that exceeds 1500 square feet of floor area shall be required to
provide parking spaces according to Section 14-5A-4 for the area in excess of 1500 square feet of floor area
unless a reduction of required number of off-street parking spaces is granted per Section 14-5A-4 F.
HOME OCCUPATIONS: Home occupations are permitted subject to Zoning Regulations.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
41
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
BUILDING PLACEMENT STANDARD
for
BUNGALOW SITES
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
42
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
Bungalow Sites
The principal building shall be between 11 and 25 ft to its Eaves.
Optional FRONT YARD FENCES shall be between 30 and 40
inches in height.
FRONT PORCH floor elevation shall be between 24 and 60 inches
above the average front property line elevation.
The first story shall have at least 9 feet clear height for not less than
75% of its area.
The principal building shall be built to the REQUIRED STREET
BUILDING LINE (RSBL), as designated on the REGULATING
PLAN. The minimum side Setback is 4 ft.
The REGULATING PLAN may designate a required PRIVACY
BUILDINGS LINE which should be respected unless otherwise
approved by the City.
A garage may be attached to, or integral to, the principal building
and should be kept within the rear 42 feet of the Buildable area.
Uncovered parking (autos, trailers, boxes, etc.) should be limited to
the rear 22 feet of the Buildable area. (Enclosed, below grade
parking is permitted adjacent to the RSBL.)
A FRONT PORCH should be built to within 6’ of the RSBL and
should be a minimum of 7’ deep with a width no less than 40% of
the building width.
A PRIVACY FENCE, between 6 and 8 ft. in height, may be
constructed to delineate between open space and rear and
COMMON LOT LINES (except within the FRONT YARD area
which may only have a FRONT YARD FENCE).
Residential Bed and Breakfast Homestay, and Home Occupation (by
right subject to Iowa City Zoning Regulations) uses are permitted.
Parking, occupant’s workshop, Home Occupation, and
ACCESSORY UNIT uses are permitted in the buildable area at the
rear of the lot. (Enclosed, below grade parking is permitted adjacent
to the RSBL.)
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
43
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
SPECIFICATIONS: BUNGALOW SITES
HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS:
Principal building height is measured from the highest REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL)
Principe building height is measured from the highest REQUIRED STREET BUILDING LINE (RSBL) elevation (ALLEY
or COMMON DRIVE frontage for accessory buildings) to the main eaves or other point specified on the BUILDING
PLACEMENT STANDARD (BPS). FENCE and GARDEN WALL, heights are measured from adjacent sidewalk (within 5
feet), when not fronting a sidewalk, heights are relative to the adjacent ground elevation. On EDGE LOTS, height for
accessory building will be measured relative to the adjacent ground elevation on the STREET side of the accessory building.
SITING SPECIFICATIONS:
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
The buildings shall occupy only the specified (hatched) area of the lot. No parts of the buildings (excepting overhanging
eaves, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30'), step. (not more than 7'1") and chimney, (not more than 24") garden
trellises and other light and unroofed garden structures) shall occupy the remaining lot area.
The building or the FRONT PORCH, depending on which is foremost on the lot, shall be built to the specified RSBL for
at least 20% of the principle BUILDING width as measured at its widest point. (The width measurement should not
include limited façade jogs, porches, chimneys, STOOPS, BAY WINDOWS, or balconies along the building side.) The
portion of the building that is built to the RSBL shall be composed as a simple plane (limited facade jogs less than 24”,
porches, chimneys (not more than 24”), STOOPS, BAY WINDOWS, and balconies are considered to be "a simple
plane" within this requirement).
The principal building should be at least 22 ft. wide for at least 35% of the building depth.
The SIDE STREET RSBL shall be built-to either by the building wall and/or PORCH for not less than 25% of its
length. That portion of the building wall shall be composed u a simple plane (limited jobs, as listed above in Siting
Specifications, are considered "a simple plane" within this requirement). When a wrap-around PORCH is used; the
building wall may step forward to the RSBL at the termination of the PORCH.
At least 25% of the lot area, including all require d side setbacks, Shall remain open and unpaved and not be built upon
(nor used for parking) except for overhanging eaves, cantilevered balconies, stoops, BAY WINDOWS (not more than
30"), chimneys (not more than 30"), wood decks, and in the rear only, gazebos, green houses and steps except where
otherwise specified in the Code.
The Garage/parking setback shall be measured from the ALLEY ROW or the COMMON edge of pavement.
CORNER LOTS: The fence requirements additionally allow a PRIVACY FENCE along the SIDE STREET FRONTAGE as a
substitute for the required FRONT YARD FENCE. This PRIVACY FENCE shall begin no closer than 20 feet from the
corner (ROW intersection) of the frontage STREET.
ELEMENT SPECIFICATIONS:
1.
2.
All lots bordering an ALLEY shall use the ALLEY as the sole means of automobile access, unless otherwise approved
by the City.
Garage doors shall not face the front RSBL. They must be at an angle of not less than 90 degrees from the front RSBL.
Unenclosed parking area shall not be located within 20 feet of the STREET unless hidden by a GARDEN WALL.
HOME OCCUPATIONS: Home occupations are permitted subject to Zoning Regulations.
ACCESSORY UNITS: ACCESSORY UNITS are permitted by right. For such units, the owner of the principal structure shall occupy
at least one (1) of the units. Conversion of primary structure single-family units for multiple family units is prohibited.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
44
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
Multi-Unit Building Sites
The principal building should be between 18 ft and 48 ft to its Eaves.
Any accessory building should be no more than 18 ft to its Eaves. Any
SIDEWING should be no more than 15 ft to its Eaves.
The ground floor elevation should be between 28 and 60 inches above
the average adjacent public sidewalk elevation.
The first story should have at least 9 feet clear height for no less than
80% of its area. All intermediate stories should have at least 8 feet 8
inches clear height for no less than 80% of their area. All top stories
should have at least 8 ft clear height with volume ceilings per elevation.
The principal building and any surface level parking should be built a minimum of
15 ft away from any STREET or public Right-of-Way (ROW), 7’ away from any
COMMON LOT LINE (except where access is provided by common drive) and a
minimum of 3 ft away from any ALLEY ROW. If a PRIVACY BUILDING LINE
(PBL) is included on the lot, all SIDEWING ARA construction should be Built-To
the PBL.
The Maximum Width of the Primary Building along any Street Frontage is 200 ft.
The maximum allowable square footage for the primary building footprint is
20,000 (except where otherwise designated on the REGULATNG PLAN). A
minimum of 10% of the lot area should remain unbuilt and unpaved.
There should be a minimum 10 ft gap between buildings unless multiple MUB
buildings are built on a single lot (except where otherwise designated on the
REGULATNG PLAN).
The garage, vehicle parking (autos, trailers, boats, etc.) should be kept within the
sub-grade basement area or at least 20 ft from any STREET/FRONTAGE and be
shielded, either by the Primary building or a Privacy Fence/Garden Wall that is
between 6-8 ft high so as to not be clearly visible from the STREET.
When provided, any Colonnade/Porch/Balcony should be between 6 ft
and 12 ft deep within a minimum width of 25% of the individual unit
width and a minimum clear height of 9 ft on the first floor and 8 ft on
the upper floors.
Elements, such as Colonnade/Porches/Balconies and Bay windows may
project forward from the principal building provided that the depth of
such projections are equal to no more than 30% of nit width and do not
extend any closer than within 7 ft of any ROW nor encroach upon any
easements.
Residential, Home Occupation, and Bed and Breakfast Homestay uses
are permitted on all floors.
First Floor space may additionally include neighborhood commercial
uses by right. (See attached specifications.)
Basement/subgrade space may additionally include Parking uses by
right.
Parking, occupant’s workshop, Home Occupation, and Accessory Unit
(<650 Sq Ft) uses are permitted in the buildable area at the rear of the
lot.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
45
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
SPECIFICATIONS: MULTI-UNIT BUILDING SITES
HEIGHT SPECIFICATIONS:
Principal building height is measured from the highest adjacent sidewalk elevation (ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE
frontage for accessory buildings) to the main eaves or other point specified in this BUILDING PLACEMENT
STANDARD (BPS). FENCE and GARDEN WALL heights are measured from adjacent sidewalk (within 5 feet);
when not fronting a sidewalk, heights are relative to the adjacent ground elevation. The ground story finished floor
elevation shall be between 28 and 60 inches above the average adjacent sidewalk elevation and shall have a
minimum 9 ft clear height.
SITING SPECIFICATIONS:
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The buildings shall occupy only the specified (hatched) area of the lot, with the exception of colonnades,
porches, balconies, overhanging eaves, bay windows, steps, ramps, chimneys (not more than 24"), garden
trellises (and other light and unroofed garden structures).
The principle building should be built no closer than 15 feet of any STREET or public Right-Of-Way and no
closer than 7 feet of any common lot line. That portion of the building shall be composed as a simple plane
(limited facade jogs less than 24" and porches, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), chimneys (not more than
24"), STOOPS, and balconies are considered to be "a simple plane" within this requirement).
There should be a minimum 10 ft gap between buildings where multiple MUB buildings are built on a single lot
(except where otherwise designated on the REGULATING PLAN).
At least 10% of the lot area, including all required setbacks, shall remain open and not be built upon except for
overhanging eaves, cantilevered balconies, stoops, BAY WINDOWS (not more than 30"), chimney, (not more
than 24"), wood or composite decks steps and ramps -- except where otherwise specified in the Code .
Minimum Garage/perking setbacks of 3 feet shall be measured from the ALLEY ROW or the COMMON
DRIVE edge of pavement.
Minimum Garage/parking setbacks of 20 feet shall be measured from any Street Frontage or Public Right-OfWay and be shielded from clear view of the street by a PRIVACY FENCE or GARDEN WALL.
Minimum Garage/parking setbacks of 7 feet shall be measured from any COMMON LOT LINE and be
shielded from clear view of the neighboring property by a PRIVACY FENCE or GARDEN WALL (except
where access provided by a common drive).
ELEMENTS SPECIFICATIONS:
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Elements, such Colonnades/Porches/Balconies and Bay Windows may project forward from the principal
building provided that the depth of such projections are equal to no more than 30% of unit width and do not
extend any closer than within 7 ft of any ROW nor encroach upon any municipal easements.
Overhanging eaves, BAY WINDOM, step, ramps, chimneys (not more than 24"), garden trellises (and other
light and unroofed garden structures) may project from the principle building provided they do not extend any
closer than within 7 ft of any ROW nor encroach upon any municipal easements.
All lots bordering an alley or common drive shall use the ALLEY or COMMON DRIVE as the sole means of
automobile access to designated parking spaces unless otherwise approved by the City.
Garage doors shall be blocked of clear view of the STREET by either a GARDEN WALL or a PRIVACY
FENCE. Unenclosed parking areas .hall not be located within 20 feet of the STREET unless hidden by a
GARDEN WALL or PRIVACY FENCE.
NEIGHBORHOOD COMMERCIAL USES: The following uses are permitted by right:
1. Retail or personal service establishments limited to the ground floor space within the existing structure.
2. Adult or child care homes.
3. Bed and Breakfast Homestays.
4. Offices limited to dental practices, general medical practices, insurance, real estate, or travel agencies,
accounting practices and law offices, limited to ground floor space within the existing structure.
PARKING: Iowa City Zoning Code Section 14-5A-5 H.4.i. restricting the number of parking spaces that may back
onto an ALLEY, may be waived if the site plan demonstrates to the satisfaction of the Building Official that parking
spaces are configured so as not to impede traffic on the ALLEY. Off-street parking spaces for Neighborhood
Commercial Uses are not required for the first 1500 square feet of floor area. Any Neighborhood Commercial Use
that exceeds 1500 square feet of floor area shall be required to provide parking spaces according to Section 14-5A-4
for the area in excess of 1500 square feet of floor area unless a reduction of require d number of off-street parking
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
46
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
spaces is granted per Section 14-5A-4 F .
HOME OCCUPATIONS: Home occupations are permitted.
ACCESSORY UNITS: Accessory Units are permitted by right. Conversion of primary structure single-family units for
multiple family uses is prohibited.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
47
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
AMENDMENT SECTION
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
48
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
CITY PERMITTING
To ensure compliance with the Peninsula Neighborhood Code, the Building Official shall review and approve all
applications for building permit relating to exterior construction prior to issuance of a building permit.
A letter from the PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD ARCHITECTURAL REVIEW BOARD is necessary for the
Building Official to issue a building permit. The letter must certify that the proposed building, building modification
or addition, where relating to exterior construction, meets the parameters of The Peninsula Neighborhood Covenants
& Deed Restrictions.
CODE AMENDMENTS
Amendments to the Peninsula Neighborhood Code shall be reviewed and approved as an amended Planned
Development Overlay Zone (OPD) in accordance with the City of Iowa City Zoning Ordinance.
Petitioners shall submit an application and other such information as required by the Peninsula Code and Zoning
Ordinance. The application shall include evidence that the proposed amendment conforms to traditional
neighborhood or urban design principles as found in the Charter for the New Urbanism published by the Congress
for New Urbanism (CNU), or such other reference works generally recognized by CNU-affiliated design
professionals to be authoritative. Such evidence shall be certified by a qualified individual having experience in
traditional neighborhood or urban design and being a CNU member in good standing. The City of Iowa City may
request resumes, references, and other information and shall make a determination as to whether such reference
works or individuals are qualified.
Approved amendments to the Peninsula Neighborhood Code shall be incorporated within the body of the document.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
49
THE PENINSULA NEIGHBORHOOD
6/4/2003 1:42 PM
The Peninsula Neighborhood Code, which includes the Regulating Plan and the Building Placement Standards, has been prepared
for use in the Peninsula Neighborhood. All copyrights and publishing rights are exclusively reserved by Geoffrey Ferrell
Associates. The City of Iowa City and Terry L. Stamper Holdings, L.L.C. are granted full use of this manual for the promotion,
permitting, regulation, development and management of the Peninsula Neighborhood, including copying and distribution to
interested parties upon their request as a matter of public record for the parts of the Code that will be adopted as City ordinance.
All reproductions and publications of this manual, in whole or in part, shall carry the following credit: "Geoffrey Ferrell
Associates, Washington, D.C." This manual may not be otherwise photocopied, in whole or in part, without the expressed
written permission of Geoffrey Ferrell Associates, and may y not be used for any other purposes whatsoever.
Under the terms of the Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions for the Peninsula Neighborhood, the Peninsula
Neighborhood Code is binding on all parties having an interest in any portion of the community, and each owner is required to
comply with the requirements set forth herein. The Peninsula Neighborhood Code may, from time to time, be updated and
revised and approved procedures by the City of lowa City and the Peninsula Neighborhood management organization.
PRINCIPLES AND REGULATIONS FOR THE NEIGHBORHOOD
50