TOWN OF CHATHAM Local Law No. 2 of 2019 September 30, 2019

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Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 1 

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TOWNOFCHATHAM

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LocalLawNo.2of2019

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AlocallawenactinganewZoningLawfor

theTownofChatham

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September30,2019

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DevelopmentofthisZoningLawwaspartiallyfundedbythe

HudsonRiverValleyGreenway

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Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 2 

TableofContents

ARTICLEI,GeneralProvisions.......................................................................................................................5

§180‐1.Purpose.......................................................................................................................................5

§180‐2.Title.............................................................................................................................................6

§180‐3.Interpretation;conflictwithotherlaws.....................................................................................6

§180‐4.EnactmentandAuthority............................................................................................................6

§180‐5.RepealandReplacementofPriorZoningLaw.............................................................................6

§180‐6.Separate

Validity.........................................................................................................................6

§180‐7.EffectiveDate..............................................................................................................................6

§180‐8.OutstandingViola tions...............................................................................................................6

ARTICLEII,DefinitionsandWordUsage.......................................................................................................7

§180‐9.Interpretation;definitions..........................................................................................................7

ARTICLEIII,EstablishmentofDistrictsandDistrictRegulations.................................................................44

§180‐10.ZoningMapanddistricts........................................................................................................44

§180‐11.Copies

ofZoningMap............................................................................................................44

§180‐12.Districtboundaries................................................................................................................44

§180‐13.Lots.........................................................................................................................................44

§180‐14.Heightregulations..................................................................................................................47

§180‐15.Districtobjectivesandlandusecontrols................................................................................48

§180‐16SourceWaterProtection..........................................................................................................70

§180‐17through22RESERVED..............................................................................................................71

§180‐23.T‐1

TowerOne,T‐2TowerTwo,T‐3TowerThree.................................................................71

§180‐24.MiningFloatingMZone..........................................................................................................72

§180‐25.EnvironmentalProtectionOverlay.......................................................................................84

§180‐26.EPO‐1–SteepSlopeProtectionOverlay................................................................................87

§180‐27.EPO‐2‐ScenicViews/Ridgelines.............................................................................................93

§180‐28.DensityBonuses.....................................................................................................................

98

ARTICLEIV.SpecialRegulations................................................................................................................103

§180‐29.Siteplanreview....................................................................................................................103

§180‐30.Specialusepermits...............................................................................................................116

§180‐31.CommercialDesignStandards...............................................................................................123

§180‐32.RuralSitingStandards...........................................................................................................126

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Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 3 

§180‐33.HamletDesignStandards......................................................................................................128

§180‐34.IndustrialDistrictDevelopmentStandards...........................................................................130

§180‐35.FarmlandProtectionSitingStandards..................................................................................132

ARTICLEV,ProvisionsApplicabletoAllDistricts................................................................................134

§180‐36.AccessoryUses.....................................................................................................................134

§180‐37.Publicutilityuses,sitingandstructures...............................................................................138

§180‐38.Communicationorbroadcasttowersorfacilities.

...............................................................142

§180‐39.Small‐scalemines.................................................................................................................152

§180‐40.GarbageTrashBins................................................................................................................154

§180‐41.Homeoccupations................................................................................................................155

§180‐42.Off‐streetparking.................................................................................................................157

§180‐43.Off‐streetloading.................................................................................................................157

§180‐44.RoadsandDriveways............................................................................................................158

§180‐45.RegulationofTimbering........................................................................................................158

§180

‐46.Signs......................................................................................................................................166

§180‐47.Offensiveuse........................................................................................................................170

§180‐48.Airpollutionandfirecontrols..............................................................................................170

§180‐49.Noise.....................................................................................................................................170

§180‐50.Trailersandmobilehomes...................................................................................................172

§180‐51.Storageofmobilehomes,boats,trailersandtrucks............................................................172

§180‐52.Agriculturaluses...................................................................................................................

173

§180‐53.TemporaryLivingStructures................................................................................................173

§180‐54.Gradingpermits....................................................................................................................173

§180‐55.On‐sitewaterandsewersystems.....................................................................................174

§180‐56.Burnedbuildings...................................................................................................................175

§180‐57.Demolition............................................................................................................................175

§180‐58.IndividualStandardsforSpecialUses...................................................................................176

ARTICLEVI.NonconformingUses.............................................................................................................207

§180‐59.Continuationofexistinguses,buildings,

structuresorparcels............................................207

§180‐60.Discontinuance.....................................................................................................................207

§180‐61.Changes................................................................................................................................207

§180‐62.Cessation..............................................................................................................................207

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Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 4 

§180‐63.Expansion..............................................................................................................................207

§180‐64.Fire........................................................................................................................................207

ARTICLEVII.AdministrationandEnforcement.........................................................................................208

§180‐65.ZoningBoardofAppeals.......................................................................................................208

§180‐66.AdministrationandEnforcement........................................................................................215

§180‐67.Amendments.........................................................................................................................221

AppendixA.IllustrationofBuildableAreaandLotMeasurements.........................................................224

AppendixB.

Additionalspecialusepermitstandard s forOutdoorFiringRangesandHunting

Preserves..................................................................................................................................................225

AppendixC.AgriculturalDataStatement................................................................................................230

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Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 5 

Chapter180,ZONING

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TownofChathamLocalLawNo.2of2019

AlocallawenactinganewZoningLawfortheTownofChatham

BeitenactedbytheTownBoardoftheTownofChatham,Columbia

County,NewYork,asfollows:

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ARTICLEI,GeneralProvisions

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§180‐1.Purpose.

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A. Thepurposeofthischapteristoexerciseatown'srighttoprotectitscitizensbycontrollingtheuse

oflandsoastobroadlyprotectthepublichealth,safetyandgeneralwelfareandtocarryoutlocally

establishedgoalsandobjectivesinaccordancewithacomprehensiveplandesigned

topreserveand

protect,forthebenefitofthetownasawhole,thebasicallyrural‐agriculturalcharacteroftheTown.

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B. Furtherpurposes areto:

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(1) Protectworkingagriculturallandscapes,openspaces,scenicvistasandenvironmentally

sensitiveareas;

(2) PreservethehistoricalsettlementpatternsoftheTown;

(3) Promote

small‐scaleretailandservicesbusinessesinhamletsandotherdesignatedlocations

thatminimizeadverseenvironmentalandfiscalimpactsonthecommu nity;

(4) Promotetheeconomicviabilityoffarms,appropriatetourismandcreativeartsrelated

enterprises;

(5) Allowforavarietyofhousingtypesavailabletoallagesandincome

levels;

(6) Ensurethatnewinfrastructuredoesnotinitselfbecomeagrowthinducerandthatpublic

servicesareconcentratedinhamlets,businessdistricts,andareasclosetowhere

infrastructurealreadyexists;

(7) Maintainlowvolumeandruraltownroads,minimizeadversetrafficimpacts,andensurethe

Townhasquality,aesthetically

pleasing,andsaferoadsandpathways;

(8) Promotemulti‐modaltransportationopportunities;

(9) PromotegreenenergysourcesthatareconsistentwithChatham’sruralandscenicgoals;

(10) Encouragegrowthanddevelopmentthatsupportsrecreation;

(11) EnsurethatgrowthanddevelopmentisconsistentwiththeTown’shistoriccharacter;

(12) Protectand

preservetheTown’sgroundandsurfacewaterresourcesfrompollutionand

overuse;

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Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 6 

(13) Preservesitsenvironmentalresourcesincluding,butnotlimitedto,airquality,habitats,and

darkskies;and

(14) Promotegreenbuildingpractices.

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§180‐2.Title.

Thischaptershallbeknownasthe"ZoningLawoftheTownofChatham,NewYork."

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§180‐3.Interpretation;conflictwithotherlaws.

In their interpretation and application, the provisions of this chapter shall be held to be minimum

requirements,adoptedforthepromotionofthepublichealth,safetyorthegeneralwelfareandtheother

purposesasstatedforthischapter.Whenevertherequirementsofthischapterareatvariancewiththe

requirements

ofanyotherlawfullyadoptedrules,regulationsorordinances,themostrestrictiveorthose

imposingthehigherstandardsshallgovern.

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§180‐4.EnactmentandAuthority.

ThisZoningLawisenactedpursuanttotheauthorityandpowergrantedbyArticles2and3oftheNew

YorkStateMunicipalHomeRuleLaw,byArticle2oftheNewYork StateStatuteofLocalGovernments.

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§180‐5.RepealandReplacementofPriorZoningLaw.

BythisLocalLaw,theTownBoardoftheTownofChathamherebyrepealstheTown’spriorZoningLaw

andasitwassetforthinChapter180oftheTownofChathamTownCodereplacesitinitsentiretywith

thisZoningLawwhich,afteradoption,shallbesetforth

intheTownofChathamTownCodeatChapter

180.ThisrepealandreplacementshalltakeeffectatthemomentthisLocalLawZoningLawbecomes

effectiveasper§180‐7ofthisLocalLaw.

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§180‐6.SeparateValidity.

IfanyArticle,subsection,paragraph,clause,orotherprovisionofthisLawshallbeheldinvalid,the

invalidityofsuchsection,subsection,paragraph,clauseorotherprovisionshallnotaffectanyofthe

otherprovisionsofthisLaw.

§180‐7.EffectiveDate.

ThislawshallbecomeeffectiveuponfilingwiththeNewYorkStateDepartmentofState.

§180‐8.OutstandingViolations

NoBoardintheTownshallrevieworapproveanyapplicationforuseofaparcelifthereshallbean

outstandingzoningorothertowncodeviolationthereonuntilsuchviolationhasbeenremovedor

complianceachieved.

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Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 7 

ARTICLEII,DefinitionsandWordUsage



§180‐9.Interpretation;definitions.

Forthepurposeofthischapter,certaintermsorwordsusedhereinshallbeinterpretedasfollows:



A. Wordusage.

(1) Theword"person"includesafirm,association,organization,partnership,trust,companyor

corporation,aswellasanindividual.

(2) Thepresenttenseincludesthefuturetense;thesingularnumber

includestheplural,andthe

pluralnumberincludesthesingular.

(3) Theword"shall"ismandatory;theword"may"ispermissive.

(4) Thewords"usedoroccupied"includethewords"intended,designedorarrangedtobeusedor

occupied."

(5) Theword"lot"includesthewords"plot"or"parcel."



Termsdefined.Asusedinthischapter,thefollowingtermsshallhavethemeaningsindicated:



ABANDONMENT‐Therelinquishmentofproperty,oracessationoftheuseoftheproperty,bytheowner

orlesseewithoutanyintentionoftransferringrightstothepropertytoanotherownerorofresumingthe

useoftheproperty.Forminingrelateduses,abandonmentshallmeanthediscontinuanceofusebynot

performingthenormalfunctionsassociatedwiththeminingoperationforaneighteen‐monthperiod.



ACCESSFROMSTATEORCOUNTYHIGHWAY‐Whentheentrancetoandexitfromaparceloflandisfrom

apublichighwayonlandwhichhasbeenpurchasedorappropriatedbythestateorColumbiaCounty for

state or county highway purposes, or from all property over which the state or county has assumed

jurisdictionforhighwaypurposes,andallpropertywhichhasbecomepartofthestateorcounty

highway

systemthroughdedicationoruse.



ACCESSORYSTRUCTURE–Abuildingorfeatureforuse,occupancyorornamentation,whetherinstalled

on,above,orbelowthesurfaceoflandorwaterdetachedfromaprincipalbuildinglocatedonthesame

lotandcustomarilyincidentalandsubordinate totheprincipalbuildingor

use.



ACCESSORYUSE‐Auseoflandorofabuildingorportionthereofcustomarilyincidentaland

subordinatetotheprincipaluseofthelandorbuildingandlocatedonthesamelotwiththeprincipal

use.



ADAPTIVEREUSE–Thedevelopmentofanewuseforanexisting,

olderbuildingorforabuildingoriginally

designedforadifferentpurpose.Whenanexistingbuildingischanged,renovatedoradaptedfromaprior

usetoanewuse.



ADEQUATE PUBLIC FACILITIES REGULATION: A set of regulations that requir es  that the public facilities

required to service a certain level

of development be in place and functional  prior to approval of a

development.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 8 

AFFECTEDAREA‐Relatedtominingoperations,itisthesum ofthatsurfaceareaoflandorlandunder

waterwhichistobedisturbedbythemine.



AFFORDABLEHOUSING‐Housingthatcostsnomorethan30%ofthebuyer'sincomeforprinciple,interest,

taxes, and insurance. For

someone making $50,000 a year, an affordable house costs no more than

$15,000ayear($1250permonth).SeealsoWorkForceHousing.



AGINGINPLACE‐Aprogramthatallowsseniorcitizenstoremainintheirhomesand communitiesas

theyageandwhereallnecessaryservicesareprovidedso

thatthiscanoccur.



AGRICULTURE or AGRICULTURAL LAND USE‐The land and on‐farm buildings, equipment, manur e

processing and handling facilities, and practices which contribute to the production, preparation and

marketingofcrops,aquaculture,livestockandlivestockprodu ctsasacommercialenterprise,including

commercial horse boarding operations, on‐farm

 markets, timber processing, compost, mulch or other

biomasscropsandthemanagementandprocessingof“farmwoodland”



AGRICULTURALDATASTATEMENT‐Adocumentwhichidentifiesfarmoperationswithinanagricultural

districtlocatedwithinfivehundredfeetoftheboundaryofpropertyuponwhichanapplicationhasbeen

filedwith

thePlanningBoard,ZBA,and/orTownBoardasprovidedinsection305‐aofArticle23‐AAofthe

NYSAgricultureandMarketsLaw.



AGRICULTURALSTRUCTURE‐Astructuredesigned andconstructed tohousefarmimplements,hay,grain,

poultry,livestock,orotherhorticulturalproducts.Thisstructureshallnotbea

placeofhu manhabitation

but used in the raising, growing or storage of agricultural products by a farmer engaged in a farming 

operationincludingbutnotlimitedtobarns,sheds,poultryhousesandotherbuildingsandequipmenton

thepremisesuseddirectlyandsolelyforagriculturalpurposes.



AGRI‐TOURISM‐Activities

conductedonafarmoperationasdefinedbyNewYorkStateAgricultureand

Markets Law, and offered to the public, or to invited groups, for the sale of agricultural products,

education, recreation or active involvement in the farm operation.An agri‐tourism activity must be

secondarytotheprimaryfarm

useonaproperty.Agri‐tourismactivitiesmaybeconductedinanaccessory

building or structure.Agri‐tourism activities may include but are not  limited to on‐farm Bed and

Breakfasts,farmstayprograms,u‐pickoperations,maplesugaring,andpumpkinpatches 



AMBIENTNOISE‐isthebackgroundsoundpressurelevel

(noise)atagivenlocation,normallyspecified

asareferenceleveltostudyanewintrusivesoundsource.



ANIMALCAMP –A variationof a traditionaldogboarding  facilityknown as a kennel. While traditional

kennelskeepdogs inindividualcagesforthemajorityoftheircare, inmost

situations,atdogcamps,the

animals can be operational only during the day where dogs can play and socialize, both indoors and

outdoors,withsupervisionbyhumansandwithexercise,socializingandtrainingactivities.Ananimalcamp

thatalsoprovidesovernightfacilitiesfordogsisakennel.



ANIMALHOSPITAL‐Any

facilitydedicatedtocareandtreatmentofanimalswithovernightorshort‐term

treatment,includingaveterinaryclinic,butshallnotincludeakennel,boarding,camporotherwellanimal

housingorcare.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 9 

ANIMALSLAUGHTERFACILITY–Aplace whereanimalsarebutcheredforfood.



ANSI‐TheAmericanNationalStandardsInstitute,oritssuccessorbodies.



ANTENNA(S)‐ A device used in  communications which receives and transmits  electromagnetic waves,

microwave or other electronic communication signals from or to satellites or other instruments for

television,

radio,data,imagery,telephoneorotherformsoftelecommunicationsorbroadcast.



ANTENNA ARRAY‐One or more whips, panels, discs, or similar devices used for the transmission or

receptionoffrequencysignals,whichincludeomnidirectionalantenna(whip),directionalantenna (panel),

andparabolicantenna(disc)butdoesnotinclude thesupportstructure

definedinthissection.



APPLICANT‐Any individual or individuals, firm, partnership, association, corporation, company,

organizationorotherlegalentityofanykind,includingmunicipalcorporations,governmentalagenciesor

subdivisions thereof, who has a request for a permit to conduct a regulated activity before the Code

EnforcementOfficerorwho

hasanapplicationpendingbeforetheZoningorPlanningBoards.



APPROVINGAUTHORITY‐ThePlanningBoard,ZoningBoard,TownBoardorCodeEnforcementOfficer

ordesignee.



ATMOSPHERIC POLLUTION‐Discharging from stacks, chimneys, exhausts, vents, ducts, openings,

buildings, structures, premises, open fires, portable boilers, vehicles, processes, or any source, of any

smoke,soot,flyash,dust,cinders,dirt,noxiousorobnoxiousacids,fumes,oxides,gases,vapors,odors,

toxicorradioactivesubstances,waste,particulate,solid,liquidorgaseous matter,oranyothermaterials

insuchplace,mannerorconcentrationastocauseinjury,detriment,nuisanceorannoyancetothepublic,

ortoendanger

thehealth,comfort,repose,safety orwelfareofthepublic,orinsuchamannerastocause

orhaveanaturaltendencytocauseinjuryordamagetobusinessorproperty.



AUTOMOTIVESERVICESTATIONANDREPAIR‐Abuildingotherthanaprivateorparkinggarageusedfor

adjustment,

painting,replacementofpartsorotherrepairand/ormaintenanceofmotorvehiclesorparts

thereof,whetherornotaccessoryorincidentaltoanotheruse.Anybuilding,landareaorotherpremises,

or portion thereof, used for the retail dispensing or sales of vehicular fuels, servicing and repair of

automobiles,andincluding

asanaccessoryusethesaleand installationoflubricants,tires,batteriesand

similar vehicle accessories. An auto service station may be gas‐onlyand associated with sales of snack 

food, tobacco, drinks, newspapers and similar convenience goods as accessory or appurtenant to th e

principaluse.



AVERAGELOTSIZE‐

Theaveragesizeofalllotstobesubdividedfromaparcel.Useofanaveragelotsize

insteadofaminimumlotsizeintheAgricultureDistrictallowforeasierprotectionofopenspaces.

Parcelssubdividedusinganaveragelotsizereducesindividuallotareasandbulkrequirementsbutthe



numberoflotsremainsthesameaspermittedwithoutlotaveraging.

BACKGROUNDNOISE‐Levelofnoisemeasured,includingallsoundsourcesexceptthespecificsourcein

question.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 10 

BANK‐Anystructurewhichhousesbanks,trustcompanies,privatebankers,savingsbanks,safedeposit

companies, savings and loan associations, credit unions and investment companies or other financial

depositoryactivitiesasdefinedintheNYSBankingLaw.



BASEDISTRICT–TheprimaryzoningdistrictestablishedbytheTownof

Chatham.Basedistrictsin

ChathamareH‐1,H‐2,RL‐1,RL‐2,RL‐3,B,andI.



BED‐AND‐BREAKFAST – A type of commercial short‐term rental use in an owner occupied one‐family

dwelling, used for providing overnight accommodations to transients and a morning meal for

compensationtonotmorethantentransientlodgersandcontainingnomorethanfivebedroomsforsuch

lodgers.

BESTMANAGEMENTPRACTICES(BMPs)‐Schedulesofactivities,prohibitionsofpractices,generalgood

housekeeping practices, pollution pre vention and educational practices, maintenance procedures and

other management practices to prevent or reduce the discharge of

pollutants dire ctly or indirectly to

stormwater,receivingwatersorstormwaterconveyancesystems.BMPsalsoincludetreatmentpractices,

operating pr ocedures and practices to control runoff, spillage or leaks, sludge or water disposal, or

drainagefromrawmaterialsstorage.



BEDROOM–Aprivateroomplannedandintendedforsleeping,containinga

closet,andseparatedfrom

otherroomsbyadoor,andaccessibletoabathroomwithoutcrossinganotherbedroom.



BUFFER‐Open spaces, landscaped areas, fences, walls, berms or any combination used to physically

separateorscreenoneuseorpropertyfromanothersoastovisuallyshieldorblocknoise,lights,

orother

nuisances.



BUILDING‐Anystructurewhichispermanentlyaffixedtotheland,hasone ormorefloors,wallsanda

rooffortheshelter,supportorenclosureofpersons,animals,chattelsorpropertyofanykind.



BUILDINGENVELOPE–Thespacewithinwhichastructureandits

supportinginfrastructureispermitted

tobebuiltonalotandthatincludesthebuilding,driveway,andanylandsdisturbedforwellandseptic

systems.



BUILDINGFOOTPRINT‐Theareaofabuildingstructuredefinedbytheperimeterofthebuildingnot

includingdriveways,parkinglots,landscapesandothernonbuildingfacilities.



BUILDINGHEIGHT‐Theverticaldistancemeasuredfromtheaveragefinishedgradealongthewallofthe

frontofthebuildingtothehighestpointofsuchbuildingorstructure.



BUILDINGORFACILITY,PUBLIC‐Anystructurewhichisutilizedsolelyforgovernmentalor

quasigovernmentalactivities,includingbutnotlimitedto

municipalbuildings,postoffices,and

firehouses.



BUILDING,PRINCIPAL‐Abuildinginwhichisconductedthemainorprinci paluseofthelotonwhich

saidbuildingissituated.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 11 

CAMOUFLAGING‐The construction of facilities to house or support communication towers and/or

antennae so that the towers blend readily with the landscape, neighborhood, and adjacent

architectural features. Examples of camouflaging that may be used are silo and barn, windmill and 

simulatedtree.



CAMP,DAY‐Auseorparcelof

landwherepeople attendduringdaytimehoursforup to180daysper

year,participating inorganizedactivities, sports,and arts andcrafts,andmay eattogetherina  central

diningfacility.Anareausedfortheparkingorgathe r ingofanykindofrecreationalvehicle shallnotbe

construed to

 be a day camp.Use of trailers, camp trailers, campers, trailer coaches, travel trailers,

recreationalvehicles,motorhomes,buses,boardinghouses, hotels,ormotelsshallalsonotbeconstrued

tobeadaycamp.

SmallDayCamp–adaycampthatserves10peopleorless.

LargeDayCamp–

adaycampthatserves11peopleormore.

IncidentalDayCamp–adaycamponlessthan50acresoflandandthatisinoperationforless

than 14 days per year. An incidental day camp that serves 300 or more people shall meet all

requirements of Chapter

 72 of the Town of Chatham Code (Assemblies and Gatherings, Mass

Public).



CAMPSITE–Anyplotofgroundwithinacampgroundintendedforexclusiveoccupancybyacamping

unitorunitsunderthecontrolofacamperforrecreation,education,orvacationpurposes.



CAMPGROUND‐Aparcel ofland

upon which two or more campsites, including ‘glamping’ units are

located, established, or maintained for seasonal (up to 180 days) occupancy by camping units as

temporarylivingquartersforrecreation,education,or vacation purposes, but shall notinclude uses

limitedsolelytothepersonaluseoftheowner.Anareafor

thegathering,parkinganduseoflandby

recreationalvehicles,atrailerpark,oramotorhomeparkshallnotbeconstruedtobeacampground.



CAMPINGUNIT–Anytent,cabin,lean‐to,orsimilarstructureestablishedormaintainedandoperatedin 

acampgroundordaycampastemporary

livingquartersforrecreation,education,orvacationpurposes.

Tents, trailers, cabins, lean‐to’s, recreational vehicles or other similar structures used for temporarily

housingworkersshallnotbeconsid eredacampingunitandarenotallowed.Atent,yurt,cabinorother

structureadvertisedandusedasa‘glamping’useshall

beconsideredacampingunit.



CARETAKERDWELLING–SeeDWELLING,ACCESSORYRESIDENTIAL.



CCSWCD‐TheColumbiaCountySoilandWaterConservationDistrict.



CEASETOOPERATE‐Adiscontinuanceofuse,notperformingthenormalfunctionsassociatedwiththe

communicationtoweranditsequipmentonacontinuousandongoingbasisforover

120days,unless

extendedbythePlan ningBoardforgoodcauseshown.



CEMETERY‐Aburialgroundorgraveyard,whetherforprivateorpublicuse.



CHANGEOFUSE‐Thechangeofuseoroccupancyofland,orbuildings,structures,orotherimprovements

onland,fromeither residential,commercialor

industrialtooneoftheotheruses,orchangeinthe nature,

substance or intensity of the same use including, but not limited to, changes in use which require the



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 12 

issuanceofaCertificationofOccupancypursuanttotheNewYorkStateBuildingandFireCode.Anyuse

that substantially differs from the previous use of a building or land.Chapter 3 (Use and Occupancy

Classification)oftheBuildingCodeofNewYorkStateshallbeusedtodefineuses

thatarenotspecifically

definedinthislocallaw.Changeofoccupancyorchangeofowne rshipshallnotbeconstruedasachange

ofuse.



CLEANWATERACT‐TheFederalWaterPollutionControlAct(33U.S.C.§1251etseq.)andsubsequent

amendmentsthereto.



CLEARCUTTING‐Completecuttingand

removingofanentirestandoftreesreplacedbynaturalor

plantedregeneration.

CLEARING‐Anyactivitythatremovesthevegetativesurfacecoverinrelationtoclearinglandfor

structures,improvementsorusesregulatedbythiszoninglaw.

CLUBHOUSE–Abuilding,orportionofabuilding,usedbyamembershipclub.

Aclubhouseisnota

countryclub.



CO‐LOCATION‐Themountingofantenna(s)orothertelecommunicationsorbroadcastequipmentused

by two or more providers, persons, firms or corporations on the same antenna support  structure,

monopoleorantennatower.



COMMERCIALDESIGNSTANDARDS‐Asetofguidelinestobefollowed

insite and/orbuilding design

anddevelopmentofcommercialusestohelpmaintainthecharacterofacommunityandpreventnew

commercial development from dramatically changing the physical and visual footprint of the

community.



COMMERCIALFACILITY–Anystructureusedforthesale,manufacture, storage,orprovisionofgoodsor



services.



COMMERCIAL HORSE BOARDING OPERATION‐meansa farm operation, consisting of  at leastseven

acresandboardingatleasttenhorses,regardlessofownership,thatreceivestenthousanddollarsor

moreingrossreceiptsannually fromfeesgeneratedeitherthroughtheboardingofhorsesorthrough

theproductionforsale

ofcrops,livestock,andlivestockproducts,orthroughbothsuchboardingand 

suchproduction.Under nocircumstancesshallthisbeconstruedtoincludeoperationswhoseprimary

on‐sitefunctionishorseracing.Acommercialhorseboardingoperationthatisproposedoris initsfirst

orsecondyearofoperation

mayqualifyasafarmoperationifitisanagriculturalenterprise,consisting

ofatleastsevenacres,andboardingatleasttenhorses,regardlessofownership,bytheendofthefirst

yearofoperation.



COMMERCIALRECREATIONFACILITYINDOOR–Anindoorplacedesignedandequippedforthe

con duct

of sports and similar recreational activities, which are available to peopl e of all ages and which are

conductedandutilized forfinancialbenefitoftheownerthereof.Ahealthclubisaformofacommercial

recreationalfacility,indoor.ThisusedoesnotincludeMotorizedVehicleRacetrackorCourse;

whichuse

isnotpermitted.SeealsoCommercialRecreationFacility,Outdoor.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 13 

COMMERCIALRECREATIONFACILITY,OUTDOOR‐Arecreationallanduseconductedoutsideofabuilding,

typicallyinvolvingbutnotlimitedtoathleticfields,miniaturegolf, skateboardpark,swimming,bathing,

wadingandothertherapeuticfacilities,tennis,handball,basketballcourts,battingcages,ortrampoline

facilities,andoperatedforprofitasabusiness.Thisuse

doesnotincludeMotorizedVehicleRacetrackor

Course,gocarts,paintball;whicharenotpermitteduses.Itdoesincludeanoutdoorrecreationalcourt

orathleticfield,natureandecologyrecreationarea,communitygarden,picnicarea,etc.



COMMONPLANOFDEVELOPMENT‐Wheremultipleconstructionactivitiesareoccurring,orwilloccur,

whetherinstagesorphasesforasingleparceloronacontiguousareaaspartofasingleendeavor.



COMMUNICATIONORBROADCASTTOWERSANDFACILITIES‐Asitedevelopmentincludingastructure

onwhichantennasorothertelecommunicationsorbroadcastdevicesarelocatedfortelevision,radio,

data, imagery, telephone or

other forms of telecommunications and all related structures and

improvementsnecessaryfortheoperationofsaidfacility.



COMMUNITYCENTER –A facilityused  for recreational, social, educational,andcultural activities. A

community center may be owned and operated by a governmental  agency, or by a not‐for‐profit

privateorganization

ormembershipclubprovidedthefacilityand/oractivitiesareopentothepublic.



COMPATIBLE:Auseoflandorbuilding(s)that,intermsofdevelopmentintensity,buildingcoverage,

design, dimensions, occupancy, traffic generation, parking re quirements, access and circulation, site

improvements,andpublicfacilitiesandservicedemands,isconsistentwithand

similartotheexisting

communitycharacterandtraditionalneighboringusesandwhichusedoesnotsignificantlyadversely

affect community character and the quality of life and health, safety and welfare of persons in

surroundingornearbybuildingsorlands.



COMPLETED TOWN OF CHATHAM APPLICATION‐An application for development that includes

 all

requireddocumentsandsubmittalspursuanttothislaw,andwhereanegativedeclarationhasbeenmade

oradraftenvironmentalimpactstatementhasbeenacceptedbythereviewingagency.



COMPLETEAPPLICATION‐AnapplicationfordevelopmentthathasbeenreviewedunderSEQRAPart617

andhas receivedeither anegative

declaration bythereviewing boardor adraft environmentalimpact

statementhasbeenacceptedbysuchboard.



COMPREHENSIVEPLAN,TOWNOFCHATHAM‐Adocumentthatdetailsanunderlyingpurposetocontrol

landusesforthebenefitof thewholecommunitybaseduponconsiderationofthecommunity’sproblems

andapplyinga

generalpolicytoobtainauniformresultandadoptedpursuanttoNYSTownLaw272‐a.



CONDOMINIUM‐ Multiple housing units that are individually owned, but that share land  and

infrastructure.Theycanbe inthe formof amulti‐familyhouse, multi‐unit apartmentbuildingortown

houses.Ownership

issharedalongwith attendantresponsibilitiesfortheprovision,maintenanceand/or

repair of common internal facilities, utilities, services, exterior building surfaces, land, landscaping and

otheroutdoorfacilities.



CONSERVATIONEASEMENT–Alegalagreementintheformofaneasement,covenant,restrictionor

otherinterestinrealpropertycreatedunderand

subjecttotheprovisionsofArticle49,Title3,ofthe



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 14 

NewYorkStateEnvironmentalConservationLaw,whichlimitsorrestrictsthedevelopment,

managementoruseofsuchrealpropertyinperpetuityforthepurposeofpreservingormaintainingthe

scenic,agricultural,openhistoric,recreational,archeo logical, architecturalornaturalcondition,

character,significanceoramenitiesoftheproperty.



CONSERVATION SUBDIVISION‐Pursuant to

 Chapter 135 of the Town of Chatham  Code, a residential

subdivisionwherethenumberofdwellingunitsthatwouldbeyieldedbyaconventionalsubdivisionplan

are allowed to be placed on the parcel to be subdivided in a flexible manner, where lot sizes, road

frontages,andother bulkdimensions

areallowed tobe relaxedandwherea majorityoftheremaining

land is left in its natural  open space condition in perpetuity. Conservation development results in a

flexibility of design and development to promote  the most appropriate use of land, to facilitate the

adequate and economical provisions of streets and

 utilities, and to preserve the natural and scenic

qualitiesofopenlands.



CONSTRUCTIONACTIVITY–Anyactivityinvolvingtheclearing,cutting,excavation,fillingorgradingof

landthatalterslandtopographyorvegetativecoverinconnectionwiththeconstructionor

improvementofastructureasregulatedbythisZoningLaw.





CONSISTENT IN SCALE ‐ Conveys the community value that the harmony of the visual landscape and

activities of daily life in Chatham should be prese rved and maintained. Scale is the relationship of a

particular project or development, in terms of size, height, bulk, intensity, and aesthetics to its

surroundingsand

thecharacterofthecommunityasawhole.



CONTINUING CARE RETIREMENT COMMUNITY (CCRC)‐A facility or facilities established to provide a

comprehensive,cohesivelivingarrangement fortheelderly,orientedtotheenhancementofthequality

oflifeandwhich,pursuanttothetermsofthecontinuingcarecontract,ata

minimum:



a. providesindependentlivingunitsandprovidesame alplan.Theindependentlivingunitcan be

made available either through a non‐equity arrangement or through an equity arrangement

including,butnotlimitedtoacooperativeorcondominium.

b. providesarangeofhealthcareandsocialservices,subject

tosuchtermsasmaybeincludedwithin

thecontract,whichshall includeadult carefacilityservicesofan on‐siteoraffiliatedadult care

facility,andataminimum,sixtydaysofprepaidservicesofanon‐siteoraffiliatednursingfacility

forresidentsnotreceivingservicesundera

fee‐for‐servicecontract;

c. providesaccesstohealthservicesasdefinedinthecontract,prescriptiondrugs,andrehabilitation

services



CONVENIENCESTOR E/MINI‐MART–Aretailestablishmentofupto5,000squarefeetsellingprimarilyfood

products,householditems,newspapersandmagazines,candy,andbeverages,andalimitedamount

of

preparedfoodsforoff‐premiseconsumption.Conveniencestoresmayalsoincludethesellingoffueland

fuelpumps/islands.



COUNTRY CLUB – A recreational facility, usually restricted to members and their guests, which could

include a clubhouse, dining and eating establishments, and recreational facilities such as golf course,

tenniscourts

andswimmingpools.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 15 

CRITICALorRAREHABITATORSPECIES–AllspeciesorhabitatslistedbyNewYorkStateasendangered,

threatened or of special concern, listed as rare by the New Yor k State Natural Heritage Program (with

codesG1,S1;G2,S2;orG3,S3),orontheNewYorkStateNatural

HeritageActiveInventoryListorWatch

List.



CROPS,LIVESTOCKAND LIVESTOCKPRODUCTS–Field crops,fruits,vegetables,horticulturalspecialties,

livestock and livestock products including furs, maple sap, Christmas trees, aquaculture and woody

biomass.Cropsmayalsoincludegrapes,hops,andgrainsusedforbeverages.



CUSTOMARYUSE–Ausethat

isincidentalandusuallyfoundassociatedwithaprincipaluse.



DATEOFRECEIPTOF COMPLETEDTOWNOF CHATHAM APPLICATION‐A completeapplication shall be

deemedreceivedbythe PlanningBoard on the dateofthe first regular meetingofthePlanningBoard

followingthefilingofthecompletedTownof

ChathamapplicationandsupportingplanswiththePlanning

Board.



DAYCAMP–SeeCamp,Day.



DAYCARE‐Daytimecarefortheneedsofpeoplewhocannotbefullyindependent,suchaschildrenor

elderlypeopleincluding suchstructuresandsurroundingareasutilizedfor suchpurposeandthatmeet

the

definitions,approvalsandrequirementsofNYSSocialServicesLaw§390,and§413etseq.



DAYCARECENTER–Adaycarefacilityinaresidenceandforgreaterthan6people.



FAMILYDAYCARE–adaycarefacilityinaresidenceandforsixpeopleorfewer.



COMMERCIAL

DAYCARECENTER–adaycarefacilitynotinaresidenceandforgreaterthan6

people.



DECorNYSDEC–NewYorkStateDepartmentofEnvironmentalConservation.



DECIBEL‐Astandardunitofacousticmeasurementasdeterminedbyasoundmeasuremen tdevice.



DEMOLITION:Theactof

pullingdown,destroying,removing,moving,relocating,orrazingaregulated

structureorportionthereof,orcommencingtheworkoftotalorsubstantialdestructionwiththeintent

ofcompletingsame,includingremovalofastructure.

DENSITY–Theratiooflandareaperdwellingunitordwellingstructure.



GROSSDENSITY–

Theratioofdwellingunitsorstructurestothelandareofthetotallot.



NETDENSITY–Theratioofdwellingunitstothelandareaofthelotaftersubtractingnon‐bui ldable

areasandenvironmentalconstraints.



DEPOSIT‐Tofill,place,ejectordumpanymaterial,butnot

includingstormwater.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 16 

DESIGN PROFESSIONAL‐New York State licensed professional engineer, professional land surveyor,

licensed architect, certified professional in erosion and sediment con trol or other duly recognized

professionalperformingservicepursuanttosaidlicensureandorcertification.



DIRECTDISCHARGE‐DirectdischargeinvolvesthedischargeofpollutantstowatersoftheUS.Discharge

apoll utantmeans:(a)Anyadditionofanypollutant orcombinationofpollutantstowatersoftheUnited

States from any point source, or (b) Any addition of any pollutant or combination of pol l utants to the

watersofthecontiguouszoneortheoceanfromanypointsourceotherthan

avesselorotherfloating

craftwhichisbeingusedasameansoftransportation.Thisdefinitionincludesadditionsofpollutantsinto

watersoftheUnitedStates.



DIRECTLYINFRONT–SeeYard,Front.



DISTURBANCE‐Anyphysicalactivitywhichresultsinthemodificationoftopographybycuttingorfilling,

stripping

oftopsoil,and/orplacingofphysicalstructuresorimprovementsthereonwhichresultsinsurface

runoffwhichrequirescollectionorchanneling;dischargesthroughpipes,sewers,orotherconveyances

ownedbyaState,municipality,orotherpersonwhichdonotleadtoatreatmentworks;anddischarges

through pipes, sewers, or other

conveyances, leading into privately owned treatment works.It also

includesany actionthatcausesan alterationtosoilorvegetation.Theactionmaycreatetemporaryor

permanent disturbance. Examples include development, exterior alterations, exterior improvements,

demolitionandremoval ofstructuresandpavedareas,cutting,clearing,damaging, orremovingnative

vegetation.



DOMICILE‐Aperson’sfixed,permanent,andprincipalhomeforlegalpurposes.Forthepurposesofthis

definition, “Domicile” is distinct and different from “residence.”As is often noted by courts and

commentators,apersonmayhavemanyresidences,butcanhaveonlyonedomicile.Propertyusedfor

Class 2 or 3

 short‐term rental use must be the domicile of the property owner. The Town Board shall

prescribeascheduleofacceptabledocuments whichshallconstituteproofofaperson’sdomicileforthe

purposesofthisZoningLaw.



DRAINAGEFLOW‐Thegravitationalmovementofwaterorotherliquidsbysurface

runofforoverland

surfaceflow.



DRIVE‐INRESTAURANTorDRIVETHRUFACILITY‐Anyplaceorpremisesusedforthesale,dispensingor

serving of any retail commodity, food, refreshments or beverages in automobiles, including those

establishmentswherecustomersmayservethemselvesandmayeatordrinkthefood,refr eshmentsor



beveragesonthepremises,includingfoodtrucksorvehiclesfromwhichsuchcommodities,food,etc.are

sold.



DRIVEWAY‐Aprivateentrancedrive,privatelyownedandmaintained,andnotmeantforusebythe

generalpublic,whichcommonlyleads toasingleprincipaluse.



DRYCLEANER–Anestablishmentproviding

forthewashinganduseofdry‐cleaningchemicalstowash

personalitems.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 17 

DWELLING,ACCESSORYRESIDENTIAL‐Aseconddwellingunit,eitherin,oradded to,anexistingsingle‐

familydwelling, or inaseparate accessorystructure suchas barns and garages  on the samelotas the

existing single‐family dwelling, for use as a complete, independent living facility with provisions in the

dwellingforcooking,eating,sanitation,andsleeping.Suchadwellingisa secondaryand subordinateuse

to the principal dwelling. . A caretaker dwelling, farm worker dwelling and ECHO units (Elder Cottage

HousingOption)areformsofanaccessorydwellingbutmayhaveadditionaldevelopmentstandards.



DWELLING,MULTIFAMILY‐Aresidential

buildingdesignedfororoccupiedbythreeormorefamilies

withthenumberoffamiliesinresidencenotexceedingthenumberofdwellingunitsprovided.



DWELLING,SINGLE‐FAMILY‐abuildingdesignedasaone‐familyresidenceandusedoroccupied,or

intendedtobeusedoroccupied,asthe

homeorresidenceofoneormorepersonsmaintaininga

household.Thisshallincludemanufacturedhomeswhenaffixedtoapermanentfoundation.



DWELLING,TWO‐FAMILY‐Adetachedbuildingcontainingtwodwellingunitsother thanamobileor

manufacturedhome(onchassis),designedforandoccupiedbytwofamiliesonly.



DWELLINGUNIT‐Oneroom,orroomsconnectedtogether,constitutingaseparate,independent

housekeepingestablishmentforowneroccupancy,rentalorlease,andphysicallyseparatedfromany

otherroomsordwellingunitswhichmaybeinthesamestructure,andcontainingindependentcooking,

sleepingandtoiletfacilities.Adormitory,hotel,mo tel,nursing

home,fraternityorsororityhouseor

othersimilarbuildingshallnotbede emedtobeadwellingunit.



ELECTRICVEHICLECHARGINGSTATION‐Asystemforthechargingofanelectricvehicle.Components

typicallyincludeachargingkioskandatransformer.



ELECTRICVEHICLECHARGING‐TheuseofanElectric

VehicleChargingStationbywhichelectricvehicles

are“fueled”throughthetransferofelectricityintothevehiclebattery.



EMERGENCY‐Apubliccalamityortheexposureofanypersonorpropertytoimminentdanger.



EMERGENCYDEMOLITION:AdemolitionauthorizedpursuanttotheNewYorkStateUniformBuilding

Codeand

TownofChathamChapter127,whenafterinspection,itisdeterminedbytheCode

EnforcementOfficerorotherauthorizedofficial,afterconsultationwiththeTownEngine er,thata

regulatedstructureposesanimminentthreattothehealthorsafetyofthecommunitythatcannotbe

adequatelymitigated,and thatimmediatedemolition

isnecessarytoprotectpublichealthandsafety.

ENVIRONMENTALPERMITorLANDDEVELOPMENTPERMIT‐Thatformofapprovalrequiredtoconduct

regulatedactivitiesinvolvinglanddevelopment,timberharvesting,stormwater,soilerosionandsediment

control,pollutantdischargetoairandanyactivitywithinwetland,watercourseorcontrolledareas.



EPOD

–AnacronymfortheenvironmentalprotectionoverlaydistrictsestablishedinthisLaw.Twosuch

districtsareestablished:EPOD1andEPOD2.



EROSION‐Thewearingawayofthelandsurfacebyactionofwind,water,gravityorothernatural

forces.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 18 

ESSENTIALSERVICES‐Theerection,construction,alterationormaintenancebypublicutilitiesor

municipalorothergovernmentalagenciesofundergroundoroverheadgas,electrical,water

transmission,ordistributionsystems,wasteremovalsystemsandtelecommunicationsfacilities

includingpoles,wires,mains,drains,sewers,pipes,conduitcablestrafficsignals,hydrants,street signs

andsimilar

equipmentandaccessoriesinconnectionwiththosefacilities,butnotincludingbuildings

reasonablynecessaryforthefurnishingofadequateservicebysuchpublicutiliti esormunicipalorother

governmentalagenciesorforthepublichealthorsafetyorgeneralwelfare.



EV CHARGING STATION– An electric vehicle charging station, electric

 recharging point, charging point,

chargepointandEVSE(electricvehiclesupplyequipment)thatsupplieselectricenergyfortherecharging

ofelectricvehicles,suchasplug‐inelectricvehicles,includingelectriccars,neighborhoodelectricvehicles

andplug‐inhybrids.



EXCAVATION‐Thepermanentremovalofoverburdenandminerals,asdefinedherein,from

theground

intheaffectedarea –oranyactivitywhichremovesorsignificantlydisturbsrock,gravel,sand,soilorother

naturaldeposits.



EXISTING LOTSOFRECORD‐Alegally existing lot atthetimeof  adoptionof  this chapter duly  filed and

recordedintheColumbiaCountyClerk'sofficeas

eitheranindividual parceloflandorpartofanapproved

subdivision, in accordance with the Town's Land Subdivision Regulations and applicable provisions of

TownLaw.



EXTRACTIVEOPERATION– SeeMiningOperation.



FAMILY‐One or more persons related by blood, marriage or adoption, living and cooking together,

exclusive of household

 servants; a  number of persons living together as a single housekeeping unit,

althoughnotrelatedbyblood,adoptionormarriage,shallbedeemedtoconstituteafamilyunit.



FARM MARKET – The seasonal or year‐round retail selling of farm products in a permanent structure 

grownonsiteona

farmoperationorfromother farmoperationsintheareaalongwithothernon‐farm 

products.(SeealsoStand,Farm)



FARMLAND‐Landusedinagriculturalproduction,asdefinedinSubdivision4of§301ofArticle25‐AAof

theStateAgricultureandMarketsLaw.



FARM BREWERY, WINERY, CIDERY

OR DISTILLERY‐Any place, premises, or use  located on a farm

operation,inwhichNewYorkStatelabeledbeer,wine,ciderorliquorismanufactured,storedandsold,

asdefinedintheNYSAlcoholicBeverageControlLaw.



FARM OPERATION‐Shall include the land and on‐farm buildings, equipment, manure processing

 and

handlingfacilities,andpracticeswhichcontributetotheproduction,preparationandmarketingofcrops,

livestockandlivestockproductsincludingacommercialhorseboardingoperationandanon‐farmmarket

asacommercialenterprise.SeealsoAgriculture.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 19 

FARMORRESIDENTIALPOND‐Aman‐madeorartificiallycreatedbodyofwatertobeusedforfire

protection,recreation,beautificationoragriculturalpurposes.



FARMSTAND–SeeStand,Farm.



FARMWORKERHOUSING‐Anaccessoryresidentialdwellingorotherdwellingusedtohousehiredfarm

workersonaparcel

oflandusedasafarmoperation.Single‐wideanddouble‐widemanufacturedhomes

maybeusedasfarmworkerhousingasper180‐36(B).



FILL‐Anycleansoilorrockmaterials(sandorclay)usedtoraisethegroundelevation.



FILLING‐Anyactivitywhichdepositsnaturalor

artificialmaterialsoastomodifythesurfaceor

subsurfaceconditionsofland,lakes,ponds,wetlands orwatercourses.



FINALSTABILIZATION‐Whenallsoildisturbingactivitiesatthesitehavebeencompletedandauniform

perennialvegetativecoverwithadensityof80%hasbeenestablishedorequivalent stabilizationmeasures



(such as the use of mulches, riprap or geotextiles) have been employed on all areas not permanently

improvedbypavement,concreteorstructures.



FINISHEDGRADE‐Theelevationatwhichthefinishedsurfaceofthesurroundinglotintersectsthewalls

orsupports of a building orotherstructure.If  the

lineof intersection is not reasonably horizontal, the

finishedgrade‐‐incomputingheightofbuildingandotherstructuresorforotherpurposes‐‐shallbethe

averageelevationofallfinishedgradeelevationsaroundtheperipheryofthebuilding.



FISCALIMPACTANALYSIS‐ananalysisoftheprojectedtotalcostsandrevenues

associatedwithaspecific

development application where the costs include, but are not limited to, those related to town, fire,

ambulance,police,school,highwayandothermunicipalinfrastructure.



FLOODHAZARD,AREAOF‐Landwithinacommunitysubjecttoaonepercent(1%)orgreaterchanceof

flooding in any given

year as shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps developed by the Federal

EmergencyManagementAgency.Also,commonlyreferredtoasbasefloodplainor100‐yearfloodplain.

Seealsofloodrelatedtermsincluded inChapter140(FloodDamagePrevention).



FLOOD,100‐YEAR‐Thehighestleveloffloodthat,onthe

average,islikelytooccuronceevery100years

(i.e.,thathasa 1%chanceofoccurringeachyear).SeealsofloodrelatedtermsincludedinChapter140

(FloodDamagePrevention).



FLOODPLAINORFLOODPRONEAREA‐Alandareaadjoiningariver,stream,watercourse,orlake,which

islikelyto

beflooded.SeealsofloodrelatedtermsincludedinChapter140(FloodDamagePrevention).



FLOODWAY‐The channel of a river or other watercourse and the adjacent land areas that must be

reservedinordertodischargethebasefloodwithoutcumulativelyincreasingthewatersurfaceelevation

morethanadesignated

heightasdeterminedbytheFederalEmergencyManagementAgency.Seealso 

floodrelatedtermsincludedinChapter140(FloodDamagePrevention).





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 20 

FOODPROCESSING‐afacilityaspartofafarmoperationwherefarmproductsprimarilygrownor

producedonthefarm,aswellasmaterialsfromoutsideresourcesnecessarytoproduceafarmproduct,

areprocessedintomeatfoods,orafacilitywhereplantsandplantproductsareprocessedintocanned,

frozen,orfreshfoodproducts.Theactivitieswhichcomprise‘foodprocessing’underthisdefinitionshall 

includetheprocessingofanimalson‐farmtotheextentthatthoseactivitiesareallowedbyapplicable

StateandFederalregulationsAsimilarfacilitynotpartofafarmoperation,orahomeoccupation,isa



commercialuseallowedonlyintheIdistrict.



FOOTPRINT(See"BuildingFootprint") 



FORESTLAND‐Areasorstandsoftrees,themajorityofwhicharegreaterthan12inchesindiameterat

breastheightormaturetrees,coveringanareagreaterthan½acre.



FORESTRY‐The management of forests

 and timberlands when practiced in accordance with accepted

silvicultural principles, through developing, cultivating, harvesting, transporting and selling trees for

commercialpurposes,whichdoesnotinvolveanylanddevelopment.



FRONTAGE‐Theextentofabuildingoroflotalongastreetorroad.



FUELSTORAGEFACILITY–asingleproperty

orcontiguousoradjacentpropertiesusedforacommon

purposewhichareownedoroperatedbythesamepersononorinwhicharelocated:



• Oneormorestationarytankswhichareusedsingularlyorincombinationforthestorageor

containmentofmorethanonethousandonehundredgallonsofpetroleum;or



• Allstationarytanksusedforstorageofusedoil;or 

• Anytankwhosecapacityisgreaterthanonehundredtengallonsthatisusedforthestorageor

containmentofpetroleum,thevolumeofwhichistenpercentormorebeneaththesurfaceof

theground.





FUNERALHOME–Abuildingusedforthepreparationofthedeceasedforburialandthedisplayofthe

deceasedandassociatedrituals.



GLAMPING–Avernaculartermreferringtoacampingunit,whetheraplatform,tent,yurt,cabin,lean‐to

orotherstructureadvertisedandusedasa

‘glamorouscamping’experience.Arecreationalvehicleofany

typeshallnotbeconsideredeitherglampingoracampingunit.



GLARE–Lightingenteringtheeyedirectlyfromluminairesorindirectlyfromreflectivesurfacesthatcauses

visualdiscomfortorreducedvisibility.



GOLF COURSE and/or COUNTRY CLUB  with or without clubhouse‐A

tract of land consisting of a

landscaped area for playing golf or other sporting, recreational and social facilities, whether generally

open to the public or having a private or semi‐private membership including all associated structures.

However, motorized vehicle racetracks or courses are not included in this or any other permitted

 use

withinthetown.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 21 

GRADING‐The alteration or reshaping of the surface or subsurface conditions of land, lakes, ponds,

wetlands or watercourses by excavation, filling, or any combinationthereof. Grading that extracts less

than100cubicyardsofmineralsoffsiteshall requireagradingpermitasper180‐54.



GROUPHOME‐Adwelling

whereinmorethanoneunrelatedindividualresidesbaseduponplacementor

theauthorityofafederalagency,orofNewYorkStateunderVolumeB ‐1,Title18,Articles4‐7.Agroup

homeshallbeconsideredafunctionalfamilyunitwhichisanintegralcomponentofarecognizedprogram

ofphysicalormentalhealthrehabilitati on orothercustodialsupervision andcarelivingarrangementsin

aone‐familydwelling,withorwithoutresidentsupervisorypersonnel.Thistermshallnotincludenursing

homes,dormitories,orsimilarfacilities.



FIRINGRANGE,INDOOR‐Abuildingutilizedforpublic/privateshootingpracticeorothersimilar

activities

offirearmsorotherweaponsandwhichisconductedentirelywithinanenclosedbuilding.



FIRINGRANGE,OUTDOOR‐Abuildingorparceloflandutilizedforpublic/privateshootingpracticeor

othersimilaractivitiesoffirearmsorotherweaponsandwhichisnotconductedentirelywithinan

enclosedbuilding.



HAMLET‐Arelatively

denselypopula tedareawithinthetownthatisnotpartofanincorporatedvillage.

They are char acterized by densely situated homes mixed with small business  and surrounded by area

farmsandopenspace.AlsoreferredtoasaTraditionalSettlementPattern.



HAULAGEWAY‐Allroadsutilizedforminingpurposes,together

withthatareaoflandoverwhich

materialistransportedthatarelocatedwithinthepermittedarea.



HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ‐ Any material , including any substance, waste or combination thereof, which

because of its quantity, concentration or physical, chem ical or infectious cha racteristics may cause, or

significantlycontributeto,asubstantialpresentor

po tentialhazar dtohumanhealth,safety,propertyor

theenvironmentwhenimproperlytreated,stored,transported,disposedoforotherwisemanaged.



HEALTHCLUB–Anestablishmentthatprovidesfacilitiesforaerobicexercises,runningandjogging,

exerciseequipment,gamecourts,swimmingfacilities,andsaunas,showers,massageorlockers.



HEIGHTOFSTRUCTURE

OFBUILDING‐Theverticaldistancemeasuredfromtheaverageelevationofthe

finishedgradealongthesideofthestructureorbuildingfrontingontheneareststreetlinetothehighest

pointofthehighestroof.Inthecaseofastructure,theheightshallbemeasuredtothehighestpoint.

Said

finishedgradeusedinsuchmeasurem entshallnotvaryfromthe naturalgradebymorethanthree(3)

feetinapplyingthisdefinition.



HISTORICCHARACTER‐Describestheindividualorcollectivequalitiesandattributesof Chatham’sphysical

andvisuallandscapethatembodyorevoketheevents,places,traditions,struggles,

fashions,movements,

and personalities  of  its past. Historic character also descri bes the unique architectural style and scale,

includingproportion,form,andarchitecturaldetail .Thephysicallayoutof thecommunity,itslandscape

patterns, the  pre‐automobile network of dirt roads, and other elements also contribute strongly to

Chatham’shistoricchara ct er.Among

theseelementsareactiveagriculturaloperationswithlowdensity

residentialdevelopmentinterspersedwithdenserpopulationcenterssuchasthehamletsandvillage,dirt



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 22 

andpavedroadsandwindbreakslined witholdmaturetrees,stonewalls,ruralsetbacks,agriculturalland

usesandstructures,andsmall/irregularfieldorpasturedimensions.Specifically,Chatham’scommunity’s

historiccharacteris strengthenedbythepresenceofhistoricfarmhouses,barnsandout‐buildingsfrom

theperiodsofitssettlementthroughthe

years.



HOME OCCUPATION ‐ Any occupation, business or professional activity that results in a product or

service,thatisconductedinwholeorinpartinadwellingorresidentialaccessorybuilding(abuilding

accessory to a dwelli ng) that is owner‐occupied and clearly subordinate in space utilization and

intensityto

theresidentialuseofthelot.



MINORHOMEOCCUPATION‐Anoccupationor businessactivityresultinginaproductorservice

forfinancialgain,conductedwhollyintheprincipalresidentialdwellingunitontheparcel,orinan

accessorystructureonthesameparcelwiththeprincipalresidence, andwhichis

clearlysecondary

totheuseofthedwellingforlivingpurposes.Minorhomeoccupationsdonotchangethecharacter

of the structure(s), lot or neighborhood and has no exterior evidence of that use within the

structure(s).Thisworkisconductedwithnoemployeesorindependentcontractorsinadditionto

the

owner/operator,producesonlyhouseholdquantitiesandtypesofwaste,hasalownumberof

dailyclientvisits,utilizesexistingparkingthatisavailablewithminor,ifany,physicalalterationof 

the property to facilitate parking, requires  no outdoor material storage, and  does not involve

deliverytruckvisitsdifferentfromnormalresidential

uses.Signage,ifpresentatallislimitedtoa

smalldoororlawnplaque.Afamilydaycareoperationservinguptosixchildrenandashort‐term

rental having 2 be drooms (double occupancy) for rent shall be considered a minor home

occupation.NopermitfromthePlanningBoard

isrequiredforminorhomeoccupationsthatmeet

therequirementsforsuchauseexceptforshorttermrentals/minorhomeoccupationasdefined

inSection180‐9andwhichshallmeetallrequirementsasperSection180‐58(Z).



INTERMEDIATEHOMEOCCUPATION –Anoccupationorbusinessactivityresultingin

aproductor

serviceforfinancialgain,conductedwithintheprincipalresidentialdwellingunitontheparceloran

accessorystructureonthesameparcelwiththeprincipalresidencethatisclearlysecondarytothe

useofthedwellingforlivingpurposes,wheretheenterpriseisconductedbyanowner/operator

who

mustresideonthepremisesandwheresuchoperationmayemployonlyoccupantsofthe

principalresidencewithoneortwootheremployeesorindependentcontractorsdirectlyrelatedto

theoperationoftheoccupation.Intermediatehomeoccupationsmayalsohaveadditionalparking

spacesandsignagebutnootherexteriorevidence

ofabusinessactivityonthepremises.(Noform

ofshort‐termrentalisincludedasanintermediatehomeoccupation).



MAJORHOMEOCCUPATION:Abusinessactivityresultinginaproductorserviceforfinancialgain,

conductedwhollyorpartlywithinadwellingunitoraccessorystructureasanon‐residential

use

thatis secondaryandsubordinatetotheuseofthedw ellingforlivingpurposesandwhichdoesnot

changetheresidentialcharacterofthedwellingunitorvicinity.Theenterpriseisconductedbyan

owner/operator who must reside on  the premises and may employ up to four persons or

independent

contractorsdirectlyrelatedtotheoperationoftheoccupationonsite, inadditionto

theowner/operatorandanyotherfamilyparticipantsinthehomeoccupationwhoresideonthe

premises.Amajorhomeoccupationdoeshaveexte riorevidenceoftheoperationthatmayinclude

oneormoreofthefollowing:clients

orcustomeractivityonaregularbasisthroughouttheday,a

sign,exteriordumpstersorwastereceptacles,storedequipmentorvehiclesincludingconstruction



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 23 

equipment,andde livery truckvisitsorothertrafficbeyondthatexpectedofatypicalresidence.A

daycare centerservingmorethansixchildrenshallbeconsideredamajorhomeoccupation.There

is also a category of Short‐term rental use that is a major home occupation (see, Class 3

Major

Home Occupation Short‐termRental Usedefined under “Short‐term Rental Useof a Residential

Home”elsewhereinthisDefinitionssection,andalsoin§180‐58(Z)(5)(e).



HOSPITALORCLINIC‐Aninstitutionforhealthcareprovidingpatienttreatmentbyspecializedstaffand

equipment,andoften,butnotalwaysproviding

forinpatientcareorlonger‐termpatientstays.



HOTEL or MOTEL – A facility offering commercial overnight sleeping accommodations, consisting of a

buildingorgroupofbuildings.Additionalaccessoryservicesmaybeincluded suchasrestaurants,meeting

rooms,entertainmentandrecreationalfacilities.Amotelisthesameasa

hotelexceptthatitmayhave

roomsaccessibleonlyfromtheoutsideandnotfromacommoninteriorentrance.Aninnisthesameas

ahotelormotelexceptthatitmaybeoperatedfromwithinaformerresidentialstructure.Motelsand

hotelsmayhaveadwellingon‐site

usedbythemanageroroperator.Hotelsandmotelsareallcommercial

operationsandshallbeconsidered theprincipaluseoftheproperty.



HOUSEOFWORSHIP(Church,Synagogue,Temple,Mosque,etc.)‐Abuil ding,placeorlocationof

worshipbyareligionorreligiousorganization,asrecognizedbyInternalRevenue

ServiceGuidelines.



HUNTINGPRESERVE‐Theuseofbuildingsand/orlandsforthereleaseorcontainmentofanimalsforthe

purposessetforthinNYSEnvironmentalConservationLawArticle19Title 17.



ILLICITDISCHARGE‐Anydirectorindirectstormwaterornon‐stormwaterorairdischargewithout

applicablepermit(s).



IMPERVIOUS

SURFACEORCOVER‐All materialsorstructuresonorabovethegroundsurfacethat

preventswaterfrominfiltratingintotheunderlyingsoils.Impervioussurfacesinclude,without

limitation:pavedand/orgravelroadsurfaces,parkinglots,driveways,andsidewalks;compacteddirt

surfacedroads;buildingstructures;rooftopsandmiscellaneousimpermeablestructuressuch

aspatios,

pools,andsheds.

IMPORTANTAESTHETICFEATURES‐DenoteselementsofChatham’sarchitectureandlandscapethathave

beenidentifiedbythecommunityassignificanttothelocalqualityoflifeandsenseofplace.Theymaybe

specificelementssuchasstructures,scenicroads,parks,waterways,crossroads,andstonewalls;or

they

maybemorediffuseresourcessuchasopenspaces,formal/informalhistoricdistricts,andscenicviews.

In Chatham, these include historic structures and landscapes, country roads, agricultural fields and

operations,viewsofhillsandmountains,streamsandwetlands,andthehamletareas.



IMPULSIVENOISE–Asingle,multipleorrepetitive

suddenburstofnoiseofshortduration.Impulsive

noisecanbecreatedby,butnotlimitedtoexplosions,orconstructionequipmentsuchaspiledrivers.



INCIDENTAL–Subordinateandminorinsignificanceandbearingareasonablerelationshiptotheprimary

use.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 24 

INDIVIDUALSEWAGETREATMENTSYSTEM‐Afacilityservingoneormoreparcelsoflandorresidential

households,oraprivate,commercialorinstitutionalfacilitythattreatssewageorotherliquidwastesfor

dischargesintogroundwaterofNewYor kState,exceptwhereapermitforsuchafacilityisrequiredunder

the

applicableprovisionofArticle17oftheEnvironmentalConservationLaw(ECL).



JUNK–Anyscrap,waste,reclaimablematerial,ordebris,whetherornotstored,forsaleorintheprocess

of being dismantled, destroyed, processed, salvaged, stored, baled, disposed of, or for other use or

disposition.



JUNK VEHICLE –

Any rusted, wrecked, damaged, dismantled or partially dismantled, inoperative, or

abandonedmotorvehiclenolongerintendedorinconditionforlegaluseonthepublichighways.



JUNKYARD‐Anareaoflandwithorwithoutbuildingsused fororoccupiedbythestorage,keeping,or

abandonmentofjunk,includingscrap

metalsorotherscrap,usedorsalvaged buildingmaterials,orthe

dismantling, storage, stockpiling,  demolition, or abandonment  of automobiles or other vehicles or

machineryorparts thereof,orafacilitywhichmeetsthedefinitionof‘junkyard’asdefinedintheNew

YorkStateGeneralMunicipalLaw.



KENNEL,BOARDINGFACILITY

ORANIMALCAMP‐Anystructure,facility,andgroundsoperatedassitefor

theshort‐orlong‐termkeepingofdogs,cats,domesticorfarmanimals,asthosetermsaredefinedinthe

NYSAgricultureandMarketsLaw.Nomorethan25dogsshallbekeptinanykenneloranimalcamp

as

pertheUseTable.Thenumberofdogsinadogbreedingfacilityshallnotbesubjecttothismaximum.



LAND DISTURBING OR DEVELOPMENT ACTIVITY‐A change of the land surface, including removing

vegetativecover,excavating,filling,grading,creatingimpermeablesurfaces,andtheconstructionofany

structure,that

significantlychangesthelandorvegetation.Thisincludesbutisnotlimitedtogradingand

clearingtoconstructahouseorcommercialstructure,anewroadordriveway,afoundation,oraseptic

system.



LARGEMINE–Aminethatremoves750cubicyardsormoreofmaterialeachyear

andthatrequiresa

MiningPermitfromtheNYSDepartmentofEnvironmentalConservation.



LIBRARY‐A structure or use where literary and artistic materials, such as computer access, books,

periodicals,newspapers,p a mphlets,prints,records,andtapes,arekeptforreading, reference,orlending,

includingbutnotlimitedtothedefinitionof

suchtermassetforthintheNYSEducationLaw.



LIGHTINDUSTRIALACTIVITY–Auseinwhichaproductismanufacturedbutthemanufacturingprocess

andfacilityha veminimalimpacton theproperty wherethemanufacturingtakesplaceandalmostnone 

onadjacentproperties,withqualitiesincluding:

*Creation

ofnoise,vibration,light,odor,dust,smoke,orotherairpollutionnoticeableatorbeyond

thepropertyline;

*Nochangetothecharacterofthesurroundingneighborhood;

*Adequatescreeningofoutsidestorageofgoods,materials,orequipment;

*Signslimitedinsize;

*Nochemical,metal,orhazardouswaste,orpotentialcontamination

ofsurfaceorgroundwater;

*Adherencetoallapplicablecommercialdesignandotherstandards citedinthiszoninglaw.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 25 

*AdherencetoallStateandfederalregulations.



LIMITEDCOMMERCIALFACILITY–Aretailshopwithamaximumof3,000(threethousand)squarefeet.

Itindicatesthetypesofnon‐residentialusesthatwouldbeallowedin selectedcommunitylocations

suchashamletareas.Theevolutionofmanyhamletareasin

andnearChathamhasincludedmixeduse

withcommercialactivitiessuchasmills,orcornerstoreslocatedwithinaclusterofresidences.



Typically,thecommercialusesarefewinnumberandsmallinscalerelativetotheoverallsizeof

thehamletandthenumberofnearbyresidentsandstructures.

Limitedcommercialusesdesired

inChathammightincludehome ‐basedbusinesses,restaurants,bed& breakfasts,smallretailshops

(with goods like antiques or specialty foods), and country groceries. High‐volume retail

establishments such as convenience stores, filling stations, and fast‐food restaurants would not

qualifyasalimitedcommercialuse.

High‐impactcommercialestablishmentssuchasautoservice

firmsormodernmanufacturingfirmswouldalsonotbeconsideredlimitedcommercialuses.



Limitedcommercialusemayalsorefertoausethathasminimalimpacton thepropertywhereit

takesplaceandalmostnoneonadjacentpropertieswithqualitiesincluding:

• Nocreationofnoiseorvibration,light,odor,dust,smoke,orotherairpollutionnoticeableator

beyondthepropertyline;

• Theuseshouldnotchangethecharacterofthelotorthesurroundingneighborhood;

• Theoutsidestorageofgoods,materials,orequipmen t relatedtothelimitedcommercial

use

shouldbescreened;

• Signsarelimitedinsize;

• Theuseshouldnotgeneratechemicalwaste,heavymetals,orotherpotentialcontaminationof

surfaceorgroundwater.



LONG‐TERMRENTALPROPERTY‐Theuseofaresidentialhomewherebyallorpartofthehomeis

rentedbythe

propertyownertoaparticulartenantforarentaltermofmorethanthirty(30)

consecutivecalendardays.



LONG‐TERMRENTER‐Apersonorpersons,otherthantheowner,whooccupi esaresidenceusedasa

long‐termrentalproperty.

LOT‐Alotisaparceloflandhaving

definedboundariesandconsideredasaunit.Exceptasotherwise

providedinthischapter,a lotshallbeofsufficientsizetomeetminimumzoningandrequirementsfor

use,coverageandarea,andtoprovidesuchyardsandotheropenspacesasarehereinrequired.Such

lotshallhavefrontageon

animprovedpublicstreetunlesswhereexceptedbythischapter,oronan

approved private street, and may consist of: a single lot of record; a portion of a lot of record; a

combinationofcompletelotsofrecord,orcompletelotsofrecordandportionsoflotsofrecord,

orof

portionsoflotsofrecord;oraparceloflanddescribedbymetesandbounds,providedthatinnocase

of division or combination shall any residual lot or parcel be created which does not  meet the

requirementsofthischapter.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 26 

LOTMEASUREMENTS(SeeExhibitAinTownCodeforillustration.)

(1) DEPTHOFALOT‐Theaveragedistanceofalotmeasuredfromthefrontlotlinetotherear

lotline.

(2) WIDTHOFALOT‐Thedistancebetweenstraightlinesconnectingfrontandrearlotlinesat

each

sideofthelot,measuredacrosstherearoftherequiredfrontyard;provided,however,

thatwidthbetweenthelotlinesoftheirforemostpoints(wheretheyintersectwiththestreet

line)shallnotbelessthan80%oftherequiredlotwidth,exceptinthecaseoflotsonthe



turningcircleofcul‐de‐sacwherethe80%requirementshallnotapply.



LOTOFRECORD‐Alotwhichispartofasubdivision, theapproved,filedmapofwhichisrecordedin

theofficeoftheColumbiaCountyClerk,oralotorparceldescribedbymetesand

bounds,the

descriptionofwhichhasbeensorecorded.



MANUFACTURED HOME‐A factory‐manufactured dwelling unit built on or after June 15, 1976, and

conforming to the requirements of the Department of Housing and Urban Development  (HUD),

ManufacturedHomeConstructionandSafetyStandards,24CFRPart3208,4/1/93,

transportableinone

ormoresections,whichinthetravelingmode,is8feet(2438mm)ormoreinwidthor40feet(12192mm)

or more in l ength, or, when erected on site, is 320 square feet (29.7m

) minimum, constructed on a

permanentchassisanddesignedtobeusedwithorwithoutapermanentfoundationwhenconnectedto

therequired utilitiesandincludestheplumbing,heating,airconditioningandelectricalsystemscontained

therein.Theterm“manufacturedhome”shallalsoincludeany structurethatmeetsalltherequirements

 this defini tion except the size requirements and with respect to which the manufacturer voluntarily

files a certification required by the United States Secretary of Housing and Urban Development and

complieswiththestandardsestablishe d underTitle42oftheUnitedStatesCode.Theterm“manufactured

home”shallnotincludeany

self‐propelledrecreationalvehicle. Seealsomobilehomeandmodularhome.



SINGLE‐WIDEMANUFACTUREHOME.Amanufacturedhome,transportableinonesection.A

recreationalvehicleisnotincludedinthisdefinition.



DOUBLE‐WIDEMANUFACTUREDHOME.Amanufacturedhome,transportableintwosections.



MEMBERSHIP CLUB – a group of people

 organize d for a common purpose to pursue common goals,

interests,oractivitiesonpropertyownedbytheclub,whichpropertymayormaynothaveastructureon

it, and usually characterized by certain membership qualifications, payment of fees or dues, regular

meetings, and a constitution and bylaws. An outdoor

firing range is a separate use and shall not be

consideredamembershipclubinthislocallaw.



MINERAL‐Peat,topsoil,sandandgravelshallbeconsideredminerals.



MINIMUMYARD–TheareaoflandcontainedwithintherequiredsetbackspursuanttoTable1ofthis

ZoningLaw.



MINI

‐WAREHOUSE–Seeself‐storagefacility.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 27 

MININGFLOATINGZONE‐TheareainwhichtheTownBoardmayestablishaspecificzoning districtto

allowminingtooccurwithintheTown'sRL‐1,RL‐2,RL‐3andIndustrialZones.



MININGOPERATION/MINING‐Theexcavationofoverburden,rocks,andmineralsfromtheearthpursuant

to 180‐24;

the preparation and processing of minerals, including any activities or processes or parts

thereoffortheextractionorremovalofmineralsfromtheiroriginallocationandthepreparation,washing,

cleaning,crushing,stockpiling orotherprocessingofmin eralsatthemine locationso asto makethem

suitableforcommercial,industrial,or

constructionuse;exclusiveofmanufacturingprocesses,atthemine

location; the removal of such materials  through sale or exchange,  or for commercial, industrial or

municipal use; and the disposition of overburden, tailings and waste at the mine location.All mines

removing>100cubicyardsofmaterialperyearshall

onlybepermittedthroughestablishmentofaMining

FloatingZone.



MININGPLAN‐Adescriptionoftheapplicant'sminingoperationwhichshallincludemaps,plans,

writtenmaterialsandotherdocumentsasrequiredbytheTownand/ortheDEC.



MIXED‐USE–Whenbothresidentialandcommercialusesarelocated

inthesamestructure.Home

occupationsshallnotbeconsideredamixed‐use.Allnonresidenti alusesinhamletsandbusinessdistrict

inamixed‐usestructureshallfrontthestreet.



MODIFIEDSITEPLANREVIEW–Areviewprocess,carriedoutbythePlanningBoard,orientedtocertain

agriculturallanduses,

anddesignedtoallowforastreamlinedprojectreviewallowingforanopportunity

toexamineaproposedagriculturalprojectand toevaluateandmitigatepotentialimpactstoprotectand

preservepublichealth,safetyand welfarewithout  unduly burdening farm operations. Amodified site

planreviewincludesbutisnotlimitedto

evaluationoftrafficflow,parking,andsignage.



MOBILEHOME‐Afactory‐manufactureddwellingunitbuiltpriortoJune15,1976,withorwithoutalabel

certifyingcompliancewithNFPA,ANSIoraspecificstatestandard,transportableinoneormoresections,

whichintravelingmod e,is8feet(2438mm)

ormoreinwidthor40feet(12192mm)ormoreinlength,

orwhenerectedonsite,is320squarefeet(29.7 m

)minimum,constructedonapermanentchassisand

designedtobeusedwithorwithoutapermanentfoundationwhenconnectedtotherequired utilities,

andincludestheplumbing,heating,airconditioningandelectricalsystemscontainedtherein.Theterm

“mobilehome”shallnotincludetraveltrailersoranyself‐propelledrecreationalvehicle.



MOBILEHOMEPARK‐Anyparceloflandwhichisplannedandimprovedfortheplacementoftwoor

moremobileormanufacturedhomeswhichareusedasdwellingsandforoccupancyofmorethan90 

consecutivedaysandconsistentwithChapter151oftheTownofChathamTownCode.





MODULARHOME‐Amanufacturedsingle‐familydwellingunit,conformingtoapplicableprovisionsofthis

code and bearing insignia of approval issued by the State Fire Prevention and Code  Council, which is

constructedbyamethodorsystemofconstructionwherebythestructureoritscomponentsarewholly

or in

 substantial part manufactured in a manufacturing facility, intended or designed for permanent

installation,orassemblyandpermanentinstallation.Amodularhomeshallbeconsideredthesameasa

single‐familyhome.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 28 

MONOPOLE‐Anyfreestandingpolethatservesasacommunicationorbroadcasttower,andupon

whichanantenna,orantennasorothertelecommunicationsorbroadcastequipment,isorhasbeen

located.



MOTORVEHICLESALESROOM,GARAGEORLOT‐Anylot,structureoruseofstructureforthepurposeof

exhibiting,selling,

leasingorotherwiseofferingcars,trucks,sportutilityvehiclesoranyvehicle

regulatedbytheNYSDepartmentofMotorVehicles.



MULCHING‐Theapplicationofalayeroforganicmaterialsuchaswoodchips,hay,pinebarkorother

materialatasufficientthicknessforthepurposeofeffectively

controllingerosion.



MUSEUMSandARTGALLERIES‐Anyuse of astructureor space fortheprimary purposeof  displaying,

storing,exhibitingartorhistoric,scientificorcultural artifactsand/orobjects,forthosestructuresused

forperformingmusic,playsandothersimilarartisticendeavors.



NATIONALPOLLUTANTDISCHARGEELIMINATIONSYSTEM

(NPDES)‐Thenationalsystemforthe

issuanceofwastewaterandstormwaterpermitsundertheFederalWaterPollutionControlAct(Clean

WaterAct).

NEIGHBORHOODCOMMERCIALFACILITY‐Anycommercialfacilityintendedprincipallytoservethearea

inwhichitislocated.SeealsoLimitedCommercialFacility.



NON‐COMMERCIALTIMBERCUTTING–Cutting

andremovaloftreesforpersonalusebylandownerand

notforsale.



NON‐CONFORMING STRUCTURE‐A structure or building, the size, dimensions, or locatio n or which

lawfullyexistedpriortotheadoption,revision,oramendmentofthisZoningLawbutthat failsbyreason

ofsuchadoption,revision,or

amendmenttoconformtothepresentrequirementsoftheZoningLaw.



NON‐CONFORMINGUSE:Anyuseofabuilding,structure,ortractofland,whichwaslawfullyinexistence

priortotheadoption,revision,oramendmentofthisZoningLawbutthatfailsbyreasonofsuchadoption,

revision,or

amendmenttoconformtotheuseprovisionsandrequirementsoftheZoni ngLaw.



NON‐STORMWATERDISCHARGE‐Anydischargethatisnotcomposedentirelyofstormwater.

NURSINGORCONVALESCENCEHOME‐Along‐termcarefacility licensedbytheStateofNewYork  that

offers 24‐hour room and  board and health

care services, including basic and skilled nursing care,

rehabilitation,andafullrangeofothertherapies,treatments,andprograms.



NURSERY and GREENHOUSE‐A structure where plants are cultivated and sold for retail or wholesale

purposesandincludesanyoperationengagedintheproductionofanyagriculturalplanttoproducetrees,



shrubs,bushes,sod,flowers,ferns,plantsorassociatedproductsthatwill beusedinanotherlocation.A

farmoperationmayincludeuseoflandforanurseryorgreenhouse.



NYSDECorDEC‐NewYorkStateDepartmentofEnvironmentalConservation.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 29 

OCCASIONAL–Whenanactivitytakesplaceatinfrequentorirregularintervalsbutnotformorethansix

timesperyear.Synonymouswith‘nowandthen’.



OCTAVEBAND‐Therangeofsoundfrequenciesdividedintooctavesinordertoclassifysoundaccording

topitch.



OFFICE‐Aplacein

whichbusiness,clerical,orprofessionalserviceactivitiesareconducted. Theterm

officedoesnotincludebusinessesthatsellgoods.



OPENSPACE‐Undevelopedlandswithoutdwellings,structures,roads,ordriveways.Someoftheselands

mayprovideopportunitiesforactiveorpassiverecreationaluse.Inruralareas,thistermtendsto

apply

tolargerarea s oflandwhileinmoredenselydevelopedareassuchashamletsandvillages’smallerparcels

ofsizemayserveasavaluableopenspace.Landsinactiveagriculturaluseshallbeconsideredopenspace.

Yardsofmowngrasswithinorsurroundinghousingdevelopments,officeparks,or

otherinstitutionsisnot

considered open space. Open space land may either be publicly or privately owned. Land with active

extractiveindustriessuchasopenminingorclearcuttingoftimberisnotconsideredopenspaceuntilit

theactivityhasceased,andthelandhasbeenallowedtorecoverand

re‐vegetate.



OPERATORandOPERATORTHEREOF(MINING)‐Anyperson,corporation,firm,partnershiporotherentity

conductingaminingoperationwithintheTownofChatham,andshallincludeanyowneroflandorother

premisessituatedwithinthesaidTownwhopermitsorconsentstotheuseofsuchlandor

otherpremises

by any person, corporation, firm, partnership or other entity for a mining operation unless such other

person,corporation,firm,partnershiporotherentityisconductingthesameonsuchpremisesundera

leasegrantinghimsoleoccupancy,useandpossessionofsuchpremisesforatermofat

leastoneyear

andisapermitteeforanactivitypermittedbythisChapter.



OUTDOORFIRINGRANGE–Apublicorprivatefacilitydesignedforthepurposeofprovidingaplaceon

whichtodischargefirearms,shootairguns,and/orarcheryequipment.Afiringrange mayhaveseveral

rangesconstructed

withinacomplex.SeeAp pendixBforadditionaldefinitionsrelatedtooutdoorfiring

range.



OUTDOORWOODFURNACEORBOILER–Fuelburningdevices(1)designedtoburnwoodorotherfuels;

(2) that the manufacturer specifies for outdoor installation or installation in structures  not normally 

occupiedbyhumans;and(3) 

thatareusedtoheatbuilding spaceand/orwaterthroughthedistribution,

typicallythroughpipes,ofagasorliquid(e.g.,waterorwater/antifreezemixture)heatedinthedevice.



OVERLAYDISTRICT:Azoningdistrictthatencompassesoneormoreunderlyingzones(basedistrict)and

thatimposes additional requirements above that

required by theunderlying zone.Overlay zones deal

withspecialconditionsorenvironmentalresourcesandusuallyapplytoseveraldistrictsandfollownatural

linesinsteadofparcelboundariesorroads.



OVERBURDEN‐Alloftheearth,vegetationandothermaterialswhichlieaboveoralongsideamineral

deposit.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 30 

OWNER‐An individual, firm, association, syndication, partnership, or corporation having sufficient

proprietaryinterestinaparcelofland.WhenreferringtoaShort‐TermRentaluse,anownerisaTownof

Chathampropertyownerwholivesintheresidentialdwelli ng ora ccessorydwelling.



OWNER‐OCCUPIED–Aresidentialhome

locatedonpropertyinwhichtheprop ertyownerlives(is

physicallypresent)andwhichpropertyisthepropertyowner’sdomicileassuchisdefinedinthisZoning

Law.Seealsodefinitionof“domicile”herein.



PARCEL‐See"Lot."



PARK‐Atractoflanddesignatedandusedbythepublicfor

activeandpassiverecreation.



PARKING‐Anareain,under, oroutsideofabuildingorstructure,designedandusedforparkingmotor

vehicles,includingparki nglots,ingarages,andprivatedriveways.SeealsoStorage.

PARKINGLOT,PRIVATE –– A parceloflandused to provideparkinginanoff‐

street,ground‐levelopen

areaforthetemporaryplacementofmotorvehiclesfortheexclusiveuseoftheownersofthelotonwhich 

theparkingareaislocatedorwhomeverelsetheypermittousetheparkingarea.

PARKINGSPACE,OFF‐STREET

(1) Forpurposesofthischapter,aspace

adequateforparkinganautomobilewithroomforopening

doorsonbothsides,togetherwithproperlyrelatedaccesstoapublicstreetoralleyandmaneuvering

room.Requiredoff‐streetparkingareasforthreeormoreautomobiles shallhaveindividualspaces

markedandshallbesodesigned,maintainedandregulated

thatnoparkingormaneuvering incidental

toparkingshallbeonanypublicstreet,walkoralley,andsothatanyautomobilemaybeparkedand

unparkedwithoutmovinganother.



(2) For purposes of rough computation, an off‐street parking space and necessary access and

maneuveringroommaybeestimated

tobe300squarefeet,butoff‐streetparkingrequirementswill

beconsideredtobemetonlywhenactualspacesmeetingtherequirementsaboveareprovidedand

maintained, in a  manner appropriate to the circumstances of the case, and in accordance with all

ordinancesandregulationsoftheTown.

PERMITTED

USEBYRIGHT‐Anyuseal lowedinazoningdistrictandsubjecttotherestrictionsapplicable

to that zoning district and for which no review by the Planning Board is required. However, a building

permitissuedbytheCodeEnforcementOfficermayberequired.



PERSON‐Any individual, organization, person, firm,

 partnership, association, corporation, company or 

legalentity of any kind, including any political subdivision of the staterecognized by law andactingas

eithertheownerorasowner'sagent.



PERSONALSERVICESHOP‐Anestablishmentprimarilyengagedinprovidingservicesinvolvingthecareof

apersonorhisorher

apparel,suchasabarbershoporbeautyparlor,shoerepair,tailoring ordressmaking,

optician,clothingrentalshop,photographicstudioandothersimilarservices.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 31 

PERSONALUSE–Auseforpersonalenjoymentandnottobee ngagedinforprofitorcommercialgain

andnotinconnectionwithanytradeorbusiness.



PERVIOUSSURFACE–Asurfacethatallowsthepercolationofwatertotheunderlyingsoil.



POCKETPARK‐Avery smalltract of

land established,designatedand  usedbythepublicforactiveand

passiverecreation.Theseareoftenonlylargeenoughforasmallgarden,playground,picnictableorpark

benches.



POLLUTANT AND POLLUTANTS OF CONCERN‐Dredged spoil,  filter backwash, solid waste, incinerator

residue, treated or untreated sewage, garbage, sewage sludge,

 munitions, chemical wastes, biological

materials, ra dioactive ma terials, heat wrecked or discard ed equipment, rock, sand and industrial,

municipal, agriculturalwaste,ballast dischargedinto water and pollutantsdischarged toairwhichmay

causeormightreasonablybeexpectedtocausepollutionofthewatersorairofthestateincontravention

of

thestandardsorguidelinesasdefinedbyNYSDECinitsregulationsorguidancedocuments.



POND–Asmallbodyofstillwaterformednaturallyorbyhallowingorembankingforfarmor

recreationalpurposes.



PORTABLEON‐DEMANDSTORAGEUNITS‐Intendedtocoveranystructureusedfortemporarystorage

including

butnotlimitedtoportableondemandstorage(PODS),storageandsemi‐trailers,or

commercialboxvansthatareparkedfortemporaryconstruction,orduringrenovation,ormoving

preparation.



PRELIMINARYPLAT–Amaporplanwithsupportingdocumentation,showingtheproposedlayoutofthe

subdivisionthatissubmittedfor

preliminarysubdivisionapproval.



PREMISES‐Anybuilding,lot,parceloflandorportionofland,whetherimprovedorunimproved,

includingadjacentsidewalksandparkingstrips.



PRINCIPALBUILDING‐Abuildinginwhichisconductedthemainorprincipal useofthelotonwhichsuch

buildingislocated.



PRINCIPALUSE‐The

primaryuseoflandorbuildingsasdistinguishedfromasubordinateoraccessory

use.



PRIVATECLUB–Abuildingandrelatedfacilitiesownedoroperatedbyacorporation,association,orgroup

ofindividualsestablishedforthefraternal,social,educational,recreational,orculturalenrichmentofits

members and not primarily for

 profit and whose members pay dues and meet cer tain prescribed

qualificationsformembership.



PRIVATESTABLE‐Astructureand/oruserelatingtotheraising,riding,boarding,training orkeeping of

horsesorothersimilaranimalsandpartofafarmoperation.Thisshallnotincludearidingacademyand

similaractivities

relatingtothehiringorrentingofsuchanimalsforrecreationaluse.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 32 

PUBLIC BUILDING – Any building used exclusively for public purposes by any department or branch of

government, buildings of aninstitutional nature and serving a public need such as a post o ffice,police

station,andfirestation.



PUBLIC UTILITY‐A privately or publicly owned facility, considered an essential service, that

 serves the

generalpublic,andwhoorwhich isorare subjectto thejurisdiction, supervision, lawsandregulations

prescribedbyorpursuanttoprovisionsoftheNewYorkStatePublicServiceLaw,theNYSPublicService

CommissionorTitle16oftheNewYorkCodeofRulesandRegulations. 



PURETONE‐Asoundhavingasinglepitch.



RECLAMATION‐The conditioning of disturbed land to make it suitable for any future productive use,

includingbutnotlimitedtotheplantingofforests,theplantingofcropsforharvest,theseedingofgrass

andlegumesforgrazingpurposes,the

protectionandenhancementofwildlifeandaquaticresources,the

establishment of recreational, residential, commercial, industrial and historical sites or for other uses

demonstratedtobeconsistentwiththepolicyoftheTownand/ortheNYSDEC.



RECLAMATIONPLAN‐Adescriptionofoperationstobeperformedbytheapplicanttoreclaim

thelandto

be mined over the life of the mine. The reclamation plan shall include maps, plans, the schedule for

reclamation,writtenmaterialandotherdocumentsasrequiredbytheTownand/ortheNYSDEC.



RECREATIONALAREAAND/ORFACILITY,NONPROFIT‐Aplacedesi gnedandequippedfortheconductof

sports

andleisuretimeactivities, whichisnotconductedorutilizedforfinancialbenefitoftheowner

thereofandisunderthesponsorshipofacharitableorganizationorgroup.Thisusedoesnotinclude

MotorizedVehicleRacetrackorCourse;whichisausenotpermitted.



RECREATIONAL COURT –Operated by a

private landowner and open  only to friends and family of that

landownerincludingbutnotlimitedtotennis,basketball,volleyball.ARecreationalCourtdoesnotinclude

playingfields,playgrounds,oruseforanymotorizedvehicle.



RECREATIONAL VEHICLE (RV) – A vehicular ‐type portablestructurewithout permanentfoundation that

can be

towed, hauled, or  driven and is primarily designed as a temporary living accommodation for

recreationalandcamping purposes.Theseincludebutarenotlimited totraveltrailers,truck campers,

campingtrailersandself‐propelledmotorhomes.See180‐58(II)forpersonaluseofrecreationalvehicle.



RECREATIONFACILITY,PRIVATE‐A

placedesig nedandequippedfortheconductofsportsandleisuretime

activities,are availabletopeopleofallagesandwhichareconductedandutilizedforfinancialbenefitof

theownerthereofwhichisavailabletoaclosedsetofindividualsormembers.Thisusedoesnotinclude

MotorizedVehicle

RacetrackorCourse,gocartsandpaintball;whichareusesthatarenotpermitted.



RECREATIONFACILITY,OUTDOOR–shallmeanarecreationfacilityconductedwhollyorpartiallyoutdoors

suchasbutnotlimitedtotennisandothercourts,baseballfields,mini‐golf,golf,drivingrange,andother

similar

uses.ThisusedoesnotincludeaMotorizedVehicleRacetrackorCourse,gocartsandpaintball;

whichareusesthatarenotpermitted.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 33 

REDEVELOPMENT‐Thereconstructionormodificationofanypreviouslydevelopedland,regardlessof

use,whichinvolvesdisturbancetosoiloritsexistingoverlayingcover.



RESEARCH OR TESTING FACILITY‐A commercial structure and/or use for planned search or critical

investigationandthetranslationofresearchfindingsorotherknowledgeinto a

plan ordesignforanew

productorprocessorforasignificanti mprovementtoanexistingproductorprocesswhetherintended

forsaleoruse.



RESIDENTIALCLUSTER‐SeeChathamTownCode,Chapter135ConservationSubdivisions.



RESTAURANT‐A useorstructureinwhichpreparesandservesfoodand/or

drinkispreparedandserved

tocustomersinreturnformoney,includingdiningatsuchlocation,take‐outorfordelivery.



RETAILSALES‐Theuseoractofmakinggoodsand/orcommoditiesavailableforpurchaseorleasetothe

public,withtheintentthatsuchgoodsshallbe

utilizeddirectlybythepurchaserandnotresold.



RETAILSTORE/SHOP‐Thelocationorstructurefromwhichretailsalesisconducted.



RETAININGWALL– Astructurethatisconstructedbetweenlandsofdifferentelevationstostabilizethe

surfaces,preventerosion,and/orprotectstructures.



RIDGETOPORRIDGELINE‐The

long,narrowcrestorhorizontallineofhillsormountains,usuallyatthe

highestelevation.



RIDINGACADEMY‐Theuse oflandfor the provisionof commercialequine activitiesincluding,but not

limitedtoridinglessons,trialridingactivitiesortrainingofhorsesorthroughtheproductionforsaleof

crops,

livestock,andlivestockproducts,orthroughboththeprovisionofsuchcommercialequine activities

and such products.Under no circumstances shall this use be construed to include operations whose

primaryon‐sitefunctionishorseracing.



Ridingandtrainingactivitiesthataredirectlyrelatedtoandincidentaltotheboarding

andraisingof

horses,includingridinglessonsforpersonswhoownorhavealong‐termlease(sixmonthsorlonger)

fromthefarmownerforthehorsethatisboardedatthefarmandusedforsuchactivities,arepartof

a“commercialhorseboarding”farmoperation.Horseshowsfor

horseseitherboardedatorowned

bythefarmoperation,whicharenotopentothegeneralpublic,arealsopartofthefarmoperation.

Ridingacademiesandothertypesofcommercialequineoperationsareeligibleforprotectionasfarm

operationsforpurposesofAML§305‐a.Aridingacademy

generallyoffersridinglessonstothepublic

andtoindividualsthatdonotownorhavealong‐termleaseforthehorsethatisboardedandused

at the facility for such riding. Eligibility for AML §305‐a protection is extended to not only horse

training,butalsototrail

riding,ridinglessons,andothercommercialequineactivities,regardlessof

whethertheclientisboardingahorseatthefarm.



ROAD–Anyvehicularwaythatisanexistingstate,countyorTownroadway,orshownuponasubdivision

planapprovedpursuanttoChapter170oftheTownofChatham

SubdivisionLaw,oroneshownonthe

officialmapoftheTownofChatham,ifany.Astreetandroadshallbesynonymous.Aroadcollectstraffic

andprovidesaccesstoresidences,commercialuses,andfarms.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 34 



ROOMINGHOUSE–Adwellingunitorpartthereofinwhich,forcompensation,lodgingandmealsare

providedforlong‐termresidencybyanindividualorindividualsformorethan30daysatatime.



RURALROAD–Alow‐volumeroadeitherpaved,orgravel,servingprimarilyresidences,

farms,

agriculturallandsorrecreationallands.Alowvolumeroadgenerallyhaslessthan400vehiclesperday.



RURAL CHARACTER – Chatham’s  rural landscape pattern is typically a patchwork of lands shaped by

currentorpast‘countryside’economicactivitiessuchasagriculture,forestry, orlow‐densityresidential

uses,interspersedwith

openspacesleftorrevertingtoanaturalstate.Therearelocalconcentrationsof

populationandstructuresinhamletsortheVillageofChatham,butthesearetypicallyoflimi tedsize.The

Village of Chatham is a typical rural village in that it is larger than hamlets and has a higher

 share of

structuresdevotedfullyorpartially tocommercialactivity.Ruralvillagesdonothaveanextensivestreet

gridortransportationnetworkandhaveapedestrianscalelimited toa fewblocksinbreadth.Hamlets

typically have a fairly well‐defined border/buffer of undeveloped open spaces and agricultural lands.

Hamlets

are typically located at key road crossings, near important civic structures such as places of

worship,or adjacent to historically important natural features likestreams. Theseareas have a diverse

mixoflotsizeandarchitecturalstyles.Historicstructuresfromvariousperiodsinthecommunity’slifeare

present.Outsidethesepopulation

‘centers’,residentstypicallyoccupyarangeofresidentialtypessuch

asestates,farmsteadsandmoremodesthomes.Featuresofactiveorpastagriculturalactivityareoften

present, including but not limited to crop fields, hay fields, livestock pasture, corrals, orchards, farm

buildingssuchasbarnsorsilos,stonewalls,windbreaks,hedgerows,

orwoodlots.MostofChatham’slocal

roadways tend to be narrow and curvy with limited driveways or crossroads. Many rural roads are

unpavedandlinedwithtrees,fences,orstonewalls.Ruralcharacteralsoembodiesaqualityoflifebased

upontraditionalrurallandscapes,activities,lifestyles,andaestheticvalues.Ruralareasare

characterized

byabalancebetween thenaturalenvironmentandhuman  useswithlow‐densityresidentialdwellings,

farms,forests,miningareas,outdoorrecreationandotheropenspaceactivities."Ruralcharacter"shall

alsobedefinedasthepatternsoflanduseanddevelopment:



• Inwhichopenspace,thenaturallandscape,and

vegetationpredominateoverthebuilt

environment;

• Thatfostertraditionalrurallifestyles,rural‐basedeconomies,andopportunitiestobothliveand

workinruralareas;

• Citizensunderstandand valuethenatureoffarmingandtheroleitplayswithinthetown;

• Thatprovidevisuallandscapesthataretraditionally

foundinruralareasandcommunities;

• Thatarecompatiblewiththeuseofthelandbywildlifeandforfishandwildlifehabitat;

• Thatreducetheinappropriateconversionofundeveloped landintosprawling,low‐density

development;

• Thatgenerallydonotrequireextensivemunicipalservices;and

• Thatare

consistentwiththeprotectionofnaturalsurfacewaterflowsandgroundwaterand

surfacewaterrechargeanddischargeareas.



SECONDHOMEOWNER–Apersonthatowns adwellingunitwithintheTownofChathamandthatintends

tooccupyitastheirresidenceforpartoftheyearinaddition

toaprincipalresidencelocatedelsewhere.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 35 

SEDIMENT‐Solidmaterial,bothmineralandorganic,thatisinsuspension,isbeingtransported,has

beendepositedorhasbeenremovedfromitssiteoforiginbyerosion.



SEDIMENTATION‐Theprocessbywhichsedimentresultingfromacceleratederosionhasbeenoris

beingtransportedoffthesiteofthe

land‐disturbingactivityorintoalakeornaturalwatercourseor

wetland.



SELFSTORAGEFACILITY‐Commercialstructuresdividedintospacesthatarerentedtoconsumersfor

storageofpossessionsonaweekly,monthlyorothersimilarperiodicbasis.



SELF‐STORAGECONTAINER‐Alargecontainerdesignedandrentedorleased

forthetemporarystorage

of commercial or residential household goods, that does not contain a  foundation or wheels for

movement.Examplesofth isuseincludepiggybackco ntainersthatcanbetransportedbymountingona

chassis,and “POD” type boxes  that  canbetransported on a flatbed  or other  truck;

butdo not include

prefabricated sheds that are not designed for transport after erection, or commercial trailers used by

constructionorotherusesintheregularperformanceoftheirbusiness.



SENIORHOUSING‐Independentlivingapartmentsorcottages,condominiums,in‐lawapartments,

cohousing,adulthomes,andContinuingCareRetirementCommunities(CCRC's).



SENSITIVEENVIRONMENTALFEATURE‐Referstoanaturalresourcethathasahighpotentialforsignificant

damage or degradation fr om direct or cumulative impacts arising from new development or shifts in

existinglanduses.Somesensitiveenvironmentalfeatureshavebeeninventoriedmappedoridentifiedas

being locally, regionally, nationally, or

globally significant for its rarity and/or degree of threat faced.

Typical examples include but are not limited to, wetlands, streams/river corridors, steep slopes,

floodplains, highly erodible soils,  and aquifer recharge and discharge areas, and habitats of rare or

endangeredspecies.



SEQRA‐ThisstandsfortheStateEnvironmentalQualityReview

ActwhichistheNewYorkStatelawthat

regulateswhenandhowenvironmentalreviewsfordevelopmentprojectswillbedone.

SETBACK‐Thedistancebetweenabuildingandanylotline.



SCHOOL,PRIVATE‐Ause,structure(s)orinstitutionforlearningandsubsidizedbynon‐public,

nongovernmentalorother

similarfunding.



SCHOOL,PUBLIC‐Ause,structure(s)orinstitutionforlearningandsubsidizedbytaxes,governmentalor

othersimilarfunding.



SHORT‐TERM‐Short‐termmeansthirty(30)consecutivecalendardaysorless(countingportionsof

daysasfulldays).Thisdefinitiondoesnotapplytoshort‐

termrentaluses.



SHORT‐TERMRENTALUSEOFARESIDENTIALHOME‐Theuseofaresidentialhomewherebyallorpart

ofthehomeisrentedbythepropertyownertoaparticulartenantasfollows:



(a) Class1Non‐Home‐OccupationShort‐termRentalUse‐(alsoreferredtoherein

forconvenience

asa“Class1Short‐termrentaluse”.Theuseofaresidentialhome,regardlessofwhetherornot



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 36 

thathomeisthepropertyowner’sdomicileforshort‐termrentalpurposeswhichmeetsthe

followingcriteria:

1. Intheaggregate,thehomeisusedforshort‐termrentaluseforforty‐four(44)daysorless

inaparticularcalendaryear;

2. Notmorethanfive(5)bedrooms,as

definedin§180‐9(b),inthehomeareusedforshort‐

termrentalpurposes;and

3. Theremayormaynotbeemployeesorindependentcontractorsinthehomethatprovide

servicesinconnectionwiththeshort‐termrentaluseorwhichfacilitateshort‐termrental

use.

(b) Class2

MinorHomeOccupationShort‐termRentalUse‐(alsoreferredtohereinforconvenience

asa“Class2Short‐termrentaluse”.Theuseofaresidentialhomeforshort‐termrental

purposeswhichmeetsthefollowingcriteria:

1. Theresidentia lhomeisthepropertyowner’sdomicile;

2. Intheaggregate,

thehomeisusedforshort‐termrentalusemorethanforty‐four(44)days

inaparticularcalendaryear;

3. Notmorethantwo(2)bedrooms,asdefinedin§180‐9(b),inthehomeareusedforshort‐

termrentalpurposes;

4. Therearenomorethanone(1)

employeeorindependentcontractorin thehome providing

servicesinconnectionwiththeshort‐termrentaluseorwhichfacilitateshort‐termrental

use;and

5. ComplieswiththeapplicablerequirementsforminorhomeoccupationssetforthinSection

180‐41oftheZoningLaw.

(c) Class3MajorHome

OccupationShort‐termRentalUse‐(alsoreferredtohereinforconvenience

asa“Class3Short‐termrentaluse”.Theuseofaresidentialhomeforshort‐termrental

purposeswhichmeetsthefollowingcriteria:

1. Theresidentia lhomeisthepropertyowner’sdomicile;

2. Intheaggregate,thehomeis

usedforshort‐termrentaluseformorethanforty‐four(44)

daysinaparticularcalendaryear;

3. One(1)ortwo(2)bedrooms,asdefinedin§180‐9(b),inthehomearerentedforshort‐

termrentalpurposes,withmorethanone(1)employeeorindependentcontractor

inthe

homeprovidingservicesinconnectionwiththeshort‐termrentaluseorwhichfacilitate

short‐termrentaluse,orbetweenthree(3)andfive(5)bedroomsinthehomearerented

forshort‐termrentalpurposesregardlessofwhetherthereareemployeesorindependent

contractorsinthehomeproviding

servicesinconnectionwiththeshort‐termrentaluseor

whichfacilitateshort‐termrentaluse;and

4. ComplieswiththeapplicablerequirementsformajorhomeoccupationssetforthinSection

180‐41oftheZoningLaw.

(d) Class4InvestmentPropertyforRent‐(alsoreferredtohereinforconvenience

asa“Class4

short‐termrentaluse”.Theuseofaresidentialhomeforshort‐termrentalpurposeswhich

meetsthefollowingcriteria:

1. Theresidentialhomeisnotthepropertyowner’sdomicile;

2. TheresidentialhomeislocatedonpropertywhollylocatedineithertheBusiness(B) 

orIndustrial

(I)zoningdistrict;

3. Notmorethanfive(5)bedrooms,asdefinedin§180‐9(b),inthehomeareusedfor 

short‐termrentalpurposes,andtheremayormaynotbeemployeesorindependent



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 37 

contractorsinthehomethatprovideservicesinconnect ionwiththeshort‐termrentaluse

orwhichfacilitateshort‐termrentaluse;and

4. Intheaggregate,thehomeisusedforshort‐termrentaluseformorethanforty‐four(44)

daysinaparticularcalendaryear.



SHORT‐TERM

RENTER‐Apersonorpersons,otherthantheowner,whooccupiesaresidenceutilizedfor

short‐termrentaluseofaresidentialhome.



SIGN‐Anyobject,device,display,orstructure,orpartthereof,situationoutdoorsorindoorsthatisuse d

toadvertise, identify, display, direct,or attractattention toan

object, person,institution, organization,

business, product, service,  event, or location by any means, including words, letters, figures, design,

symbols,fixtures,colors,illumination,orprojectedimages.



SIGN,OFF‐SITE‐Asignatalocationotherthanthepremisesonwhichthebusiness,commodity,service,

ororganizationisconducted,sold,

oroffered.



SIGN,ON‐SITE‐Asignrelatinginitssubjectmattertothepremisesonwhichitislocated,ortoproduct,

accommodations,servicesoractivitiesonthepremises.On‐sitesignsdonotincludesignserectedbythe

outdooradvertisingindustryintheconductoftheoutdoor

advertisingbusiness.

SIGNS,NUMBERSANDSURFACEAREA

(1) Forthepurposeofdeterminingnumberofsigns,asignshallbeconsideredtobeasingledisplay

surfaceor display devicecontaining elements organized,relatedand composed toform aunit.

Wherematterisdisplayedinarandom manner withoutorganized

relationshipofelements,or

where there is reasonable doubt about the relationship of elements, each element shall be

consideredtobeasinglesign.

(2) Thesurfaceareaofa signshallbecomputedasincludingtheentireareawithinaregulargeometric

formorcombinationsofregulargeometricforms

comprisingallofthedisplayareaofthesignand

includingalloftheelementsofthematterdisplayed.Framesandstructuralmembersnotbearing

advertisingmattershallnotbeincludedincomputationofsurfacearea.

SIGN,TEMPORARY–on‐siteandoff‐premisesignsplacedfornomorethan

thirtydayspriortoanevent

orelectionandnomorethansevendaysaftersucheventorelection.

SIGNIFICANTTRAFFICINCREASE–Whenrelatedtotraffic,itreferstovehicularuseexceedingthe

existingtwo‐waydailytrafficgeneratedbythegreaterof1)100newcartripsonthe

roadgeneratedby

thedevelopmentor2)10%ofthepreviouslyexistingdailymovementsonthatroad.



SINGLEOWNERSHIP–Propertiesownedorcontrolledbythesameindividual,corporation,partnership

orotherentityasshownonthedeed.



SITEPLANREVIEWANDAPPROVAL–Thereviewandapprovalby

thePlanningBoardofanapplicationfor

development using a systematic process that starts with the overall design concept and ends with

evaluationofdesigndetailspursuanttoTownLaw27 4‐a.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 38 

SITEPREPARATION‐Theactivitiesofstripping,excavation,filling,grading andcompacting,nomatter

whatthepurposeoftheseactivities.



SKETCHPLAN‐Aconceptorinformalmapofaproposedsubdivisionorsiteplanthathassufficient

accuracytobeusedforthepurposeofdiscussionduringtheinitial

stagesofareviewprocess.



SMALLMINE–an extractiveoperationremovinglessthan 750 cubicyardsofmineralper yearandthat

doesnot require aNYSDECMining Permit. Small mines shall meet requirementsof180‐39. Operations

extractinglessthan100 cubicyardsshallbe consideredagradi ng

operationandshallrequireagrading

permitasper180‐54.Smallminesthatsolelysupportafarmoperationortownroadmaintenanceuses 

shallbeexemptfrom180‐23.1and180‐39unlessaNYSDECMiningPermitisrequired.



SMALLRECREATIONAREA–Aparceloflandlocated

withinaconservationsubdivisionandusedforpublic,

non‐commercial recreation including but not limited to playground, ballfields, soccer fields, picnicking,

tennis,basketball,volleyball,swimmingpools,andcommunitygardens.



SOIL‐Allunconsolidatedmineralornonlivingorganicmaterialofwhateveroriginwhichoverlies

bedrock.



SOLAR FARM – Energy ge neration facility

 or area of land equal to or greater than 40,000 square feet

principally used to convert solar energy to electricity, whether by photovoltaics, concentrating solar

thermaldevicesorvariousexperimentalsolartechnologies,designedandintendedtosupplyenergysolely

intoautilitygridforsaletothegeneralpublic.A

communitysolarfarmisasolarfarmwhoseelectricityis

sharedbymorethanonehousehold.



SOLARPANEL–Aphotovoltaic(PV)panelwhichgenerateselectricityfromsolarradiation.



SOUND‐Anoscillationinpressure,partialvelocityorotherphysicalparameterinamediumwith

internalforcesthatcausecompressionand

rarefactionofthemedium.



SOUND‐LEVEL METER‐An instrument, including a microphone, an amplifier, an output meter and

frequency‐weightingnetworks,usedforthemeasurementofsoundinaspecif iedmannerandcalibrated

indecibels.



SOUND REPRODUCTIONDEVICE‐Anydevice, instrument, mechanism, equipment or apparatus for the

amplification of any sounds from any radio, phonograph, stereo, tape player, musical instrument,

television,loudspeakerorothersound‐makingorsound‐producingdeviceoranydeviceorapparatusfor

thereproductionoramplificationofthehumanvoiceorothersound.



SPECIALUSEPERMIT‐Alanduse whichisdeemed

permissiblewithinagivenzoningdistrictordistricts,

but which may have the potential to exhibit characteristics or create impacts incompatible with the

purposesofsuchdistrict.Thespecialuseshall,therefore,besubjecttoapprovalbythePlanningBoardin

accordancewithconditions setforthforsuchuse,as

wellasotherapplicableprovisionsofthislaw.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 39 

STAND,ROADSIDEORFARM‐Atemporarystructureincludingsmallbuildings,carts,wagons,orstands

for the seasonal and  temporary display and sale offarmproducts from the farm at which the stand is

located.



STATEPOLLUTANTDISCHARGEELIMINATIONSYSTEM(SPDES)‐Thesystemestablishedpursuantto

Article17of

theECLand6NYCRRPart750forissuanceofpermitsauthorizingdischargestothewaters

ofthestate.



STEEPSLOPES‐Anyslopewithtopographicgradientof15%orhigher.



Slopesof15%butlessthan25%.Theseslopesaredefinedandmeasuredasslopingfifteen(15)feet 

or more vertical per one hundred (100) feet horizontal when there are five (5) adjacent contour

intervalsoftwo(2)feeteachsothatinaggregate,theydelineateaslopeofatleastfifteen (15)percent

butlessthan25%.



Slopes of25% or more. Theseslopesare defined and

measured as sloping twenty‐five(25)  feet  or 

moreverticalperonehundred(100)feethorizontal)whenthereare five(5)adjacentcontourintervals

oftwo(2)feeteachsothatinaggregate,theydelineateaslopeofatleasttwenty‐five(25)percent.



STORAGE–Thekeeping,inanunenclo sedarea,ofanygoods,junk,material,merchandise,

orvehiclesin

thesameplaceformorethan30consecutivedays.SeealsoParking.



STORAGEFACILITY,COMMERCIAL–Anenclosedstructureusedforthecommercialstoringofanyitem

includingvehiclessuchasbutnotlimitedtotraveltrailer,car,boat,orrecreationalvehicle.



STREAM–Perennialandintermittent

watercoursesandclassifiedbytheNewYorkStateDepartmentof

EnvironmentalConservationofAA,A,B,C(t)orC(ts).Thesearewatercoursesth atalsomayrequireaDEC

ProtectionofWaters Permit.Astreambankisthatlandareaimmediately adjacenttoandwhichslopes 

towardthebedofa

watercourseandwhichisnecessarytomaintaintheintegrityofthewatercourse.A

bankwillnotbeconsideredtoextendmorethan50feethorizontallyfromthemeanhighwaterline;with

thefollowingexception:Whereagenerallyuniformslopeof45degrees(100%)orgreateradjoinsthebed

ofa

watercourse,thebankisextendedtothecrestoftheslopeorthefirstdefinablebreakinslope,either

anaturalorconstructed(road,orrailroadgrade)featurelyinggenerallyparalleltothewatercourse.



STRIPPING‐Anyactivitywhichremovesorsignificantlydisturbssoils,trees,brush,grassoranyother

kind

ofvegetation.

STRUCTURE‐Anything constructed or erected with a fixed location on the ground or attached to

something having a fixed location on the ground. Among other things, structures include buildings,

swimmingpools,mobilehomes,walls,fencesandtenniscourts.



SUBDIVISON–Thedivisionofalot,tractor

parceloflandintotwoormorelots,tracts,parcelsorother

divisionsoflandforsale,development,orlease.



SUBSIDIZEDRENTALUNIT‐Assistancetowardrentalorpurchasepricefrompublicorprivateagency.

Thisisdifferentfrom"affordablehousing"



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 40 



SUPPORTSTRUCTURE‐Astructuredefinedandconstructedspeci f ically tosupportanarrayantenna,and

may include a monopole, self ‐supporting (lattice) tower, guy wire support tower and other similar

structures.Anydevicewhichisusedtoattachatowerfacilitytoanexistingbuildingorstructureshallbe

includedin

thisdefinition.



SWIMMINGPOOL‐Anystructureintendedforswimmingorrecreationalbathingcapable ofcontaining

water over twenty‐four inches deep (sixhundred and ten centimeters) deep.This includes in‐ground,

above‐groundandon‐groundswimmingpools,hottubs and spas.



SWIMMING POOL, PRIVATE WITH FENCE‐A

swimming pool intended solely for personal use in

conjunction with a residence and not open to the public, which in accordance with the NYS Fire and

BuildingCode,necessarilyrequirestheinstallationofaprote ctivebarriersurroun dingsuchpooltoprevent

unwantedaccess.



SWPPP‐Thestormwaterpollutionpreventionplanas

requiredbyNYSDEC.



TEMPORARYLIVINGSTRUCTURE–Astructure,including amobileormanufacturedhomethatiserected

solely in conjunction with construction work, without any foundation  or footings, and that is removed

whenthedesignatedtimeperiodforwhichthetemporaryresidentialuseofthestructurehas

expired.A

recreationalvehicleortraveltrailerisnotatemporarylivingstructure(seeTravelTrailer).



TENANT‐Occupantofresidence(otherthanOwner)onmonthtomonthorlong‐termbasis.Apersonor

persons,otherthantheowner,whooccupiesaresidenceformorethan30daysoron

along‐termbasis.



THEATER‐Auseorstructurewhereperformancesormotion‐pictureshowscanbepresented.



TIMBERHARVESTING‐Thefellingoftreesforcommerciallumberorfirewoodproduction.



TOPSOIL‐Thenaturalsurfacelayerofsoil,usuallydarkerthansubsurfacelayers,toadepthofatleast

six

incheswithinanundisturbedareaofsoils.

TOTALMAXIMUMDAILYLOAD(TMDL)‐Themaximumamountofapollutanttobeallowedtobe

releasedintoawaterbodysoasnottoimpairusesofthewater,allocatedamongthesourcesofthe

pollutant.



TOWERFACILITYorFACILITY‐See"communication

orbroadcasttowersandfacilities."



TOWNHOUSE‐Asingle‐familydwellingunitconstructedinagroupofthreeormoreattachedunitsin

whicheachunitextendsfromfoundationtoroofwithopenspaceonatleasttwosides.



TRACTORTRAILER–Acargocarryingtransportvehicle.Itincludes

both:theactualtruckwhichcontains

theengine;andatrailer,alsoknownasa semi‐trailer,thathas wheelsbutwithoutafrontaxleand no

engine.Whencombinedtheyformthetractortrailer.Atractortrailerisalsocommonlyreferredtoasan

18‐wheelerreferringtothe

numberofwheelspresentontheunitasawhole.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 41 

TRADEMARKEDARCHITECTURE–A commercialbuildingusedbyabusinesshavingmorethanfivedifferent

business locations that is designed to be virtually identical to buildings used by that business in other

communitiesorplacesbecauseofstandardizedarchitecture.



TRAVELTRAILER/RV‐Any portable vehicleorstructurewhichis designed to

betransported onitsown

wheels;whichisdesignedandintendedtobeusedfortemporarylivingquartersfortravel,recreational

orvacationpurposes;andwhichmayormaynotincludeoneoralloftheaccommodationsandfacilities

includedinamobilehome. Alsoknown asarecreationalvehicle.



UNREASONABLENOISES‐Anynoisewhichisdefin edin§180‐49hereinafter.



VARIANCE‐Avarianceisarelaxationofthetermsofthischap terwheresuchvariancewillnotbecontrary

tothepublicinterestandwhere,owingtoconditionspeculiartothepropertyandnottheresultof

the

actions of the applicant, a literal enforcement of this chapter would result in unnecessary and undue

hardship.



VARIANCE, AREA‐A variance from the area and bulk requirements or supplementary regulations of a

relatedcharacter(suchasamount,size,locationofdesignoraccess,off‐streetparking,landscaping,si gns)

authorizeonaspecificlotapermittedusewhichcouldnotfeasiblybeestablished withoutrelieffrom

oneormoreofthedimensionalrequirementspertainingtothedistrict.



VARIANCE,USE‐Avariancefromtheuseregulationstoallowthees tablishmentonaspecificlotofause

otherwiseprohibitedin

thedistrict.



VEGETATIVECOVER‐Grasses,shrubs,trees,andothervegetationwhichholdandstabilizesoils.



VERNAL POOL – A wetland in a small,  shallow depression within an uplandforest.Vernal pools have a

physical isolation from navigable bodies of water, do not support fish and provide essential breeding

habitat

for certain amphibians and invertebrates.Vernal pools are flooded in spring or after a heavy

rainfallbutare usually dr yduringsummer and fill againinautumn.Inthewintervernal pools may be

frozenoverafterhavingbeenfilledwithfallrains.Inthespring,usuallyaroundmid‐Marchthrough

April,

thepoolsmelt,andamphibiansbegintolaytheireggsthere.



VETERINARY OFFICE‐A building or use where the practice of the profession of veterinary medicine is

carriedoutandshallincludediagnosing,treating,operating,orprescribingforany animaldisease,pain,

injury,deformityorphysicalcondition,orthe

subcutaneousinsertionofamicrochipintendedtobeused

to identify an animal.Boarding facility shall be ancillary use only for animals treated in the veterinary

officeandthisuseshallnotincludekennels,boardingfacilityoranimalcamps.

VIEWSHED–Thegeographicalareathatisvisiblefroma

location.Itincludesallsurroundingpointsthat

areinline‐of‐sightwiththatlocationandexcludespointsthatarebeyondthehorizonorobstructedby

terrainandotherfeatures(e.g.,buildings,trees).



WASTEWATER‐Waterthatisnotstormwater,iscontaminatedwithpollutantsandisorwillbe

discarded.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 42 

WATERBODY‐Anynaturalorman‐madebodyofwater,suchasapond,lake,wetland,orwetarea

whichdoesnotnecessarilyflowinadefinitedirectionorcourse.



WATERCOURSE‐Anynaturalorartificialstream,river,creek,ditch, channel,canal,conduit,culvert,

drainageway,gully,ravineorwashinwhich

waterflowsinadefinitedirectionorcourse,either

continuouslyorintermittently,andwhichhasadefinitechannel,bedandbankandanyareaadjacent

theretosubjecttoinundationbyreasonofoverflow,floodorstormwater.



WATERRECREATION‐Activities,sportsorhobbieswhichoccur,whetherinwholeorinpart,

in,on,

aroundorrelatedtowater,includingbutnotlimitedtoswimming,boating,fishi ng,andwaterskiing.



WATERSTORAGE‐Auseorstructureintendedtoretainwaterforcurrentorfutureconsumptionoruse,

includingbutnotlimitedtowatertowers,reservoirsanddams.



WAREHOUSE‐Abuilding

orpartofabuildingforstoringofgoods,waresandmerchandise,whetherfor

theownerorforothers,andwhetherforapublicorprivateuse.

WEDDINGRECEPTION,PARTIES,ORPRIVATEEVENTFACILITY‐Acommercialactivityatalocationwhere

eventsareheld,includingbutnotlimitedtoweddings,parties,

meetings,familyreunions,andcorporate

events. The event locations can include, but not limited to tents, gazebos, barns, open  areas, and

residentialorcommercialstructures.Eventsforwhichtheowneroroperatoroftheve nuereceivesnofee

orotherremunerationin connection withthe eventand no feesare

chargedtoattendees shallnotbe

considered commercial events. Similar events held by not‐for‐profit organizations by and for their

membershipshallnotbeconsideredcommer cialevents.

Wedding Reception, Parties, Private Event Facility as part of a Farm Operation (Does not include

privateweddings,parties,andspecialevents):seeagri

‐tourismandSection180‐29(C)(2).

WETLANDS‐Anywetlands,asthattermisdefinedbytheNYSDECinArticle24FreshWaterWetlands,

Title23ofArticle71oftheECLandorasdefinedbySection404oftheCleanWaterAct,orasotherwise

Protectedby

theCodeoftheTownofChatham.



WHOLESALE‐Theuseoractofmakinggoodsand/orcommoditiesavailableforpurchaseorlease,with

theintentthatsuchgoodsshallberesold.



WINDTURBINEorMILL–



1. Whennotusedinconnectionwithfarmoperation,awindmill

isdefinedasasinglewindtur bine

with a generating capacity of 27.5 kW or less designed solely for on‐site power consumption

exceptthatunusedor  excesspowermaybesoldtoanelectricalutility companyinaccordance

withtheprovisionsofSection66‐loftheNewYork

StatePublicServiceLaw.



2. Whenusedinconnectionwith“farmoperation”assuchisdefinedinSection301,subdivision11

oftheNewYorkStateAgricultureandMarketsLaw(NYSAML),aWindMillisconsideredanon‐

farmbuilding and is further defined as a single  wind turbine designed

solely for on‐site power



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 43 

consumptionasgovernedbytheNYSAMLand/orSection66‐loftheNewYorkStatePublicService

Law.



WORKFORCEHOUS ING‐ALLhousingthatisbuilttobeaffordabletosomeonewhocan'taffordmarket

ratehousing.Workforcehousingalsoreferstohousin gnearparticularjobcentersaffordabletothe

people

whohavethosejobs,whatevertheyare.



YARD–Anopenspacethatliesbetweentheprincipalbuildingand/oraccessorybuildingsandthe

nearestlotline.

Yard,Front–Aspaceextendingthefullwidthofthelotbetweenanybuilding andthefrontlotline

andmeasuredperpendicular

tothebuildingattheclosestpointtothefrontlotline.



Yard,Rear–Aspaceextendingacrossthefullwidthofthelotbetweentheprincipalbuildingandthe

rearlotlineandmeasuredperpendiculartothebuildi ngtotheclosestpointoftherearlotline.



Yard,RequiredMinimum–Theminimumopenspacebetweenalotlineandtheyardlinewithin

whichnostructureispermittedtobelocatedexceptasprovidedinthiszoninglaw.



Yard,side–Aspaceextendingfromthefrontyardtotherearyardbetweentheprincipal

building

andthesidelotlineandmeasuredperpendicularfromthesidelotlinetotheclosestpointofthe

principalbuilding.



ZERO‐LOTLINE‐Thelocationofabuildingonalotinsuchamannerthatoneormoreofthebuilding’s

sidesrestdirectlyonalot

line.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 44 

ARTICLEIII,EstablishmentofDistrictsandDistrictRegulations



§180‐10.ZoningMapanddistricts.



TheZoningMapsofficiallyentitled"ChathamZoningMap"andEnvironmentalProtectionOverlayMaps

are hereby adopted as part of this chapter. The maps show a division of the Town into the following

districts:





H‐1 HamletOne

H‐2 HamletTwo

RL‐3 RuralLandsThree 

RL‐2 Rural

LandsTwo 

RL‐1 RuralLandsOne

B Business 

I Industrial 

T‐1 TowerOne 

T‐2 TowerTwo

T‐3 TowerThree

M MiningFloating 

EPO‐1 EnvironmentalProtectionOverlay–SteepSlopes

EPO‐2EnvironmentalProtectionOverlay–ScenicViews/RidgeLines



§180‐11.CopiesofZoningMap.

RegardlessoftheexistenceofotherprintedcopiesoftheZoningMap,whichfromtimetotimemaybe

madeor published, the official Zoning Map,whichshallbe locatedin the office of the TownClerk  and

availableontheTownwebsite,shallbethefinalauthorityastothe

currentzoningstatusofthelandand

waterareas,buildingsandotherstructuresintheTown.



§180‐12.Districtboundaries.

District boundaries shown within the lines of roads, streams and transportation rights‐of‐way shall be

deemed to follow the center lines. The abandonment of roads by the Town pursuant to the New York

StateHighwayLawshallnotaffectthelocationofsuchdistrictboundaries.WhentheCodeEnforcement

Officer

cannotdefinitelydeterminethelocationofadistrictboundarybysuchcenterlines,bythescale or

dimensionsstatedontheZoningMap,orbythefactthatitclearlycoincideswithapropertyline,heshall

refuseaction,and theZoning BoardofAppeals,uponappeal,shall interpretthe

locationof thedistrict

boundary with reference to the scale of the Zoning Map and the purposes set forth in all relevant

provisionsofthischapter.



§180‐13.Lots.

A. Lotswhichabutonmorethanonestreetshallproviderequiredfrontagealongeverystreet,unless

specificallyexceptedbythischapter.



B. Projectionsintominimumyard.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 45 

(1) Allstructures,whetherattachedtotheprincipalstructureornot,andwhetheropenorenclosed,

shallnotprojectintoanyminimumyard.

(2) Overhangs,cornices,baywindows,etc.,mayprojecttwofeetsixinchesintoaminimumyard.

(3) Porcheswithoutroofs,balconiesnotactingasroofsandentrance

stepsmayprojectfivefeet

intoaminimumyardforawidthnotexceeding16feet.

(4) Structuresessentiallyatgradelevel,suchaspavedterracesandretainingwallslessthantwo

feetinheight,mayprojectintominimumyardsbutmaynotbecloserthanfourfeettoanylot



line.

(5) Openfencesandrailingslessthanthreefeetinheightareexcludedfromminimumyard

requirements.Fencesuptosixfeetinheightareexcludedfromsideandrearyardrequirements

andmayprojectfourfeetintothefrontyard.



C. ZeroLotLines.Azero‐lotline

developmentmaybedoneonlyinconjunctionwiththesubdivi sionof

propertythroughamajorsubdivisionlocatedwithinanyhamletdistrict.ThePlanningBoardshall

specificallyapproveuseofazero‐lotlinelayout.Eachplatpreparedpursuanttothesezerolotline

standardsshallcontainthefollowingnotationon

thefaceoftheplat:



“ThisplathasbeenapprovedundertheprovisionsofChapter134and180relatingtozerolotline

construction.Nobuildingpermitmaybeissuedforanyconstructionuponthelandsencompassed

withinthisplatexceptinstrictconformitywiththerestrictionscontainedinthe

TownofChatham

Code.”



(1) Zerolotlinedesignstandards.NotwithstandinganyotherprovisioninChapter180,azero‐lot

linedevelopmentmaybeapprovedandthereafterdevelopedinconformitywiththefollowing

designstandards:



(a) Alldwellingsconstructedwithinthezero‐lotlinedevelopmentshallbesoconstructedas

to

shareacommonpropertylinewithanadjoiningparcelorlot.

(b) Alllotslocatedwithinthezero‐lotlinedevelopmentshallbeaminimumof20,000square

feetifwaterandsewerareavailable,or1acreifanindividualsepticsystemistobe

providedfor.

(c)

Alllotslocatedwithinazero‐lotlinedevelopmentshallbedesignatedashavingthe

followingpropertylines:



1. Frontstreetpropertyline,whichshallbethepropertylineadjacenttothestreetor

publicthoroughfarebywhichaccessisgainedtothelot;

2. Rearlotline,whichshall

bethelotlineoppositethefrontstreetpropertyline;

3. Interiorpropertyline,whichshallmeanthelotlinesharedwiththeadjoiningparcelor

lotsexceptforcornerlots,wherethesidestreetpropertylineshallbeknownastheside

streetpropertyline;

4. Commonpropertylineshall

meanthepropertylineonwhichthedwellingstructureis

located,andwhichissharedwithanadjoiningpropertyowner;

5. Thedwellingunitshallbeplacedupononlyoneinteriorpropertylinewithzerosetbacks.



(2) Alldwellingunitsshallbeplacedaminimumof15feetfromthe

rearpropertylineanda

minimumof25feetfromthefrontstreetpropertyline.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 46 

(3) Alldwellingunitsshallbeplacedaminimumof15feetfromthesidestreetpropertyline,or10

feetfromtheinteriorpropertyline,asthecasemaybe.



(4) Accessorybuildingsandstructuresshallobservesetbackrequirementsapplicabletothezone.



(5) Eachdwellingunitshall

beprovidedwithaseparatewatermeter,electricmeter,gasmeter(if

applicable),andsepticsystem(ifapplicable),whollycontainedonitslot.



(6) Nozero‐lotlineshallbeallowedfortheyardadjacenttoapublicorprivatestreet.



(7) Aminimumoftwooff‐streetparkingspaces

shallbeprovidedoneachplattedlot.



(8) Eachdwellingshallbelocatedonitsownindividualplattedlot



D. LotsinExistence.Inanydistrict,notwithstandinglimitationsimposedbyotherprovisionsofthis

chapter,asinglelotinexistenceonJuly2,1972,maybebuilt uponsubject

tothefollowing

conditions:



(1) Suchlotmustbeinseparateownership,andnotofcontinuousfrontagewithothersuchlotsin

thesameownership.Thisprovisionshallapplyeventhoughsuchlotsfailtomeetthe

requirementsforareaorwidth,orboth,thataregenerallyapplicableinthe

district,provided

thatyarddimensionsandotherrequirementsnotinvolvingareaorwidthofthelotshall

conformtotheregulationsforthedistrictinwhichthelotislocated.



(2) Notwithstandingseparatedeedsorlegaldescriptions,alllandswhicharecontiguousor

separatedbyaTownorcountyroad,

andareinsingleownership,shallbeconsideredtobea

singleparcelforthepurposeofthischapter,andnoportionofsaidparcelshallbeusedorsold

whichdoesnotmeetlotwidthandarearequirementsestablishedbythischapter,norshallany

divisionoftheparcelbe

madewhichleavesremaininganylotwidthorareabelowrequirements

statedinthischapter.Ifanyoftheselotscontainmorethanonemaindwellingorstructure,the

ZoningBoardofAppealswillconsideravariance.



(3) Abuildingorstructuremaybeerectedaseitherapermitteduse

orspecialpermitteduseasmay

beapplicableonanyexistinglotofrecordwhichdoesnotconformtothelotarea,lotwidth

and/orlotfrontagerequirementsoftheDistrict,providedthat:

(a) Section265‐aoftheNewYorkStateTownLawiscompliedwithifapplicableto

thespecific

lot.



(b) Suchlotmaynotbeusedformorethanonedwellingunitand itsassociatedaccessory

structuresunlessspecificallyauthorizedunderthischapter,includingaccessorydwelling

units,farmworker,guestandcaretakers’housesandotherancillaryandrelateddwellings

createdunderthespecialusepermitrequirementsofthislocal

law. 

andtheNewYorkStateDepartmentsofHealthandEnvironmentalConservationforpotable

watersupplyandsewagedisposalfacilities.



(d) AllotherareaandbulkregulationsandotherapplicableprovisionsoftheTownCodeare

compliedwith.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 47 

(e) Suchlotwaslawfullyinexistenceontheeffectivedateofthislocallaw.





E. LotCoverage.Inalldistricts,structuresmaynotcovermorethan30%ofthelot.Inaconservation

subdivision,anindividualstructureonalotmayexceedthisrequirementbuttheoverallproject

maynot.



F. MultiplePrincipleUsesonOneParcelProhibited.Inalldistricts,parcelsmay 

nothavemorethan

oneprincipleuse.



(1) Aprinciplestructuremayhaveanaccessorystructureasper180‐36.



G. FlagLots.Generally,nosubdivisionofpropertyshallresultinthecreationofaflaglot.However,in

itsdiscretion,thePlanningBoardmayallowflaglotswhere:(a)

flaglotsmayareneededtoaccess

currentlyexistinglotsthatarelandlockedhavingnoroadfrontage;or(b)inothercircumstances

whereaflaglotwouldbebeneficialtoprotectviewsorotherresources.



H. LotsAlongKinderhookLake.LotsalongthefollowingroadsintheH‐1District

nearKinderhookLake

shallbeexemptfromH‐1setbacksandotherbulkdimensionalrequirements.Intheselocations,

setbacksofnewstructuresmaymatchthoseofadjacentstructurestoensureconsistencywith

existingdevelopment.



(1) Route203fromCrestviewDrivesouthtoChapelDrive;bothsides

(2) ChapelDrive,but

notChapelDriveExtension

(3) EastShoreDrive;bothsides

(4) NiagaraMohawkRoad;bothsides

(5) ElectricParkRoad;bothsides

(6) MarinaDrivel;bothsides

(7) EberleRoadfromElectricParkRoad;bothsides,butnotEberleRoadfromLittleLakeRoad

(8) KellsLane;bothsides

(9)

Route203fromChapelDrivesouthtoTownBoundary;westsideonly



§180‐14.Heightregulations.

Exceptforfarmingpurposes,inalldistrict’sstructuresshallnotexceedaheightof35feetaboveaverage

groundlevel.Districtbuildingheightregulationsshallnotapplytobarns,grainelevators,silos, flagpoles,

radioortelevisionantennae,transmissiontowersorcables,spires,orcupolas,chimneys,elevatororstair

bulkheads, parapets or

 railings, water tanks or cooling towers, or any similar structures, provided that

suchstructuresintheiraggregatecoverageoccupy nomorethan10%oftheroofareaofthebuilding.The

ZoningBoardofAppeals(ZBA)mayauthorizeavariancetotheheightregulationsinanydistrict,provided

that the

ZBA determines to grant the variance in accordance with the standards applicable to area

variancesinthisZoningLaw.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 48 

§180‐15.Districtobjectivesandlandusecontrols.



A. Inalldistricts,usesaresubjecttoruralsitinganddeve lopment standardsdesign ed toreduceintensity

ofuse,limitpollution,limitdischargestoairwaterandsoil,limittraffic,protectpavedandunpaved

roads, and control excessive lighting. Specificpur poses for each district are set forth below. The

description

of the purposes and  objectives for each district are intended to provide guidance and

detail as to the Town’s vision for each district, and to aid decision‐makers in making discretionary

decisions.



(1) HamletDistrict.Objective:toprovideareasinoradjacenttotheexistinghamlets withahousing

density

and development pattern normally found in small villages. In order to promote hamlet

styledevelopment,newusesandaccessoryusesshallbesubjecttotheproposedruralsitingand

development standards and be tailored for each hamlet area. Residential uses which could

negatively impact the hamlet areas should be allowed only

 via a special use permit. For

nonresidentialuses,HamletDistrict shouldaccommodate,byspecialpermit,limitedcommercial

facilitiestoservethehamletinwhichtheyarelocatedandtheimmediatesurroundingareas.This

district promotes mixed‐use cores where all new non‐residential structures be subject to the

proposed rural

siting and development  standards, site plan review and special use permits to

assureconsistencywithhamletcharacter.Eachhamlethassitingcriteriaandsize limitationsfor

certainnon‐residentialuses.



(2) RuralLands Districts.Objective:Toprovidefor areasin Chathamhaving lowdensityresidential

andlowintensityusesthat

areconsistentwithagriculturalusesandconservationoftheTown’s

environmentandcompatiblewithsurroundingrurallands.



Rural Lands 1 (RL‐1): Is the district having the lowest intensity of uses in Chatham where

principal uses are single‐family and two‐family dwellings, agricultural uses ,  and home

occupations.Otheruses

areallowedprovidedthereiscompatibilitybetweentheuse andthe

surroundingrurallands.RuralLands2(RL‐2):Thisdistrictcontainsthemajorityoffarmlands

in Chatham and its’ purpose is to prevent incompatible uses which might destroy the

agricultural environment of the area. Principal permitted uses in this district

 are oriented to

farming and farm‐related agricultural activities and low‐density residential uses. Specially

permittedusesareallowedonlywhentheydonotinterferewithagriculturalactivities.



RuralLands3(RL‐3):Thisdistrictprovides spaceforruralresidencesatahigherdensitywhere

soils have good surface drainage

 characteristics and on‐site sewer systems would properly

function.Largeminimumacreagesarerequiredforuseswithpotentiallylargeimpactsonthe

surroundingresidentialarea.



(3) Business District (B). Objective: This district provides for commercial activities to supplement

existing business areas in the town, and to serve those businesses that

 are highway oriented

and/orthatrequirelargeareas.Retailbusinessesher eareorientedtoservelocal‐scaleneedsand

have performance criteria to control large parking lots, large volumes of traffic, and

environmentalwastes(lowairemissionsandlowvolumeofdischargetonearbywaterbodies).

Buildingfootprintsarelimited

toensureconsistencyandscalewithsurroundingruralcharacter.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 49 

(4) IndustrialDistrict.Objective:Thisdistrictprovideslocationsfortheestablishmentofsmall‐scale 

manufacturing and industry to provide for economic growth, employment opportunities and a

broadeningofthetaxbaseinChatham.TheDistrictlocationsprovideeasyhighwayaccesspoints

anddonot conflictwithmajorreside ntialareas.Zoning

supportsbusinessesbutcontrolslarge

parkinglots,largevolumesoftraffic,andenvironmentalwastes(lowairemissionsandlowvolume

ofdischarge to nearby water bodies).Buildingfootprintsarelimited to ensure consistencyand

scalebutallowforlargerbuildingsasperthedimensionstableforthisDistrict.



(5) Tower

1,2and3Districts.Objective:Thesedistrictsareestablishedtoallowforthedevelopment

of telecommunications towers located  in appropriate locations with development standards

(18023and180‐38).



(6) MiningFloatingZone.Objective:Thisdistrictisestablishedtoallowformining inamannerthat

considersthehealth,safety

andgeneralwelfareoftheresidentsbyremovingdangerscreatedby

excessive noise and/or light, excessive quantities  of dust, deep excavations remaining in the

ground;traffic dangers;exposure ofthebareearthto windactionandother naturalelements;

creationofartificialpools ofwater; pollutionofwater; danger tothe

groundwater, watershed,

wildliferesources,includingfloraandfauna,anddestructionofnaturaldrainage ways.Thisdistrict

isdesignedtomitigateimpactsandtoassurethatanyminingiscompatiblewiththecharacterof

the surrounding community, and to prevent excessive noise; prevent land from being left in a

hazardous state; prevent

soil erosion; protect the natural vegetative cover of such land; and

preventdestructionofnaturaldrainageways.Atthesametime,itisrecognizedthatthemining

providedforinthisMiningFloatingZoneisnecessaryandusefulandshouldbeallowedwhennot

inconflictwiththeexpresspurposesof

thissection.



(7) Environmental Protection Overlay Zones. Objective: Two environmental protection overlay

districts are established to provide special controls over land development located in sensitive

environmentalareaswithintheTownofChatham.



B. No building or land shall hereafter be used or occupied, and no building or part thereof

shall be

erected,movedoraltered,unlessinconformitywiththeregulationshereinspecifiedforthedistrict

inwhichitislocated.Usesoflandand/orbuildingsnotpermittedbythisZoningLawareprohibited.



C. Nobuildingshallhereafterbeerectedoralteredtoexceedtheheight,toaccommodate

orhousea

greaternumberof families, and/or to have narrower or smaller rear yards, front yards, side yards,

inneroroutercourts,thanspecifiedhereinforthedistrictinwhichsuchbuildingislocated.



D. Nopartofarequiredminimumyardorotheropenspacearoundanybuilding

shallbeincludedasa

partofayardorotheropenspacesimilarlyrequiredforanotherbuilding.



E. WithregardtoparcelslocatedonTownroads,thefrontyardistobemeasuredfromthecenterofthe

road. In such cases, twenty‐five (25) feetshall be added

to the otherwise minimum required front

yard.



F. ThereviewingCEO/and/ortheBoardreceivinganapplicationmadetotheTownofChathamshall

reviewandconsider GISmapsincludedintheCom prehensivePlan,TownAgriculturalandFarmland 



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 50 

Protection Plan, their updates, or other studies that may be accepted by the Town Board for

informationandassistanceinunderstandingimpactsduringitsreviewofallapplicationsasperthis

chapter.



G. DensityMeasurementsandNet/AverageLotSizes



(1) Purpose:AspertheChatham’sComprehensivePlan,theTown

hasestablishedcommunitygoals

toprotecttheenvironment,preserveopenspaces,promotefarma ctivities,andmaintaintherural

character.Residential density is established in the Table of Dimensions.This density shall be

consideredasabasedensitytobeadjustedtotakeintoconsiderationthespecificenvironmental

sensitivitiesthatmaybe

presentonaparcelandtoensurethatthedensityallowedmatchesthe

capacityofthatparticularparcel.



(2) Applicability.Netacreageshallbeused.IntheRLdistricts,averagelotsizesmaybeusedatthe

discretionoftheapplicant.



(3) The density of development for any parcel

in existence in the Rural districts as of the date of

adoptionofthisZoningLawshallbebaseduponthenetacreageoftheparcel.Netacreageshall

becalculatedasfollows:



(a) Identifythetotalacreage(gross)oftheparcel. 

(b) Subtractallacreageontheparcelconstrained

withthefollowingenvironmentalfeatureson

theparcel:

1. Any100‐yearfloodplainasdefinedbytheFederalEmergencyManagementAgency

(FEMA)FloodHazardBoundarymapsasthosemapsnowexistorastheymaybe

amendedfromtimetotime;

2. Wetlands,includingNewYorkStatedesignatedwetlands(excluding

the100‐foot

buffer),wetlandsregulatedbytheU.S.ArmyCorpsofEngineersoranysuccessor

agency,andwetlandsasmaybedesignatedonanyhabitat orbiodiversitymapthatmay

bedevelopedfortheTown;

3. Landscoveredbywaterincludingstreams,naturallakesorponds,orconstructedwater

bodiesincludingretentionanddetentionbasins;and

4. Landshavingslopesmorethan25%slope.



(4) Thetotalgrossacreageminustheenvironmentallyconstrainedacreageequalsthenetacreage.

Todeterminethenumberofallowableresidentialunitsonthesite,dividethenetacreagebythe

allowable number of acres

per unit required within the zoning district. Round down fractional

unitsof0.5orlessandroundupfractionalunitsgreaterthan0.5.Theresultingnumberisthenet

densityallowedonthesite.



(5) Whenever a minor or major subdivision occurs on parcels that  are not subdivided into the

maximumnumberoflotsallowedbythisZoningLawatonetime,thePlanningBoardshallrequire

anotationtobeplaced onallplatmapstoclearlyinf ormthelandowner(s)howmanyadditional

lotsremaineligibletobecreatedinafuturesubdivision.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 51 

(6) Allowance for Average Lot Size. The Planning Board  shall allow for averaging lot sizes when a

subdivisiontakesplace.Lotsmayvaryinsizeprovidedthatalllocal,countyandstatewaterand

septic/wastewaterrequirementsaremetforeachandeverylot,andprovidedthattheaverage

sizeof

alllotsequalsthedensityrequirementofthatdistrict.



(7) MonitoringLotSplits.Theadjusteddensitycalculatedpursuanttothissectionisthetotaland 

maximum development potential for a particular parcel, regardless of the number of times a

parcelissubdivided.Oncethisfulldevelopmentpotentialhasbeenreached

throughsubdivisions,

nofurtherdensityorsubdivisionactivityshallbeallowed.TheTownofChathamrecognizesthat

properadministrationoftheaveragedensityconceptisimportantinmeetingtheintentofthis

law. The following  procedures have been established to help ensure proper monitoring of lot

splits.



(a) Anofficial

parcelmapindicatingexistinglots,parcelnumbers,andlandownershipshallbe

establishedalongwithanofficialregistercontainingthisinformation. 

(b) TheTownshallmaintainarecordoftheestimatedallotmentoflotsanddwellingunits

possibleunderthislawforeachparcelunderreview.

calculatethenumberoflotsallowedasperthissectionofthislaw.

(d) Apropertyownersubmittingaminorormajorsubdivisionplanshallberequiredtospecify

onhis/herplanandonanyapprovedfinalplat,whichlotorlotsshallcarrywiththemthe

righttoerect

orplaceanyunusedallocationofdwellingunitstheparcelmayhave.Plat

notesshallberequiredtoindicatethetotalnumberoflotseligibletobecreated,the

numberoflotsproposedtobeallocatedaspartofthesubdivision,andthenumberof

remaininglotsthatcouldbecreated

infuturesubdivisionspursuanttothedensity

requirementsofthissubsection.

(e) Asallotmentsareusedup,theofficialparcelmapandregistershallbeupdatedtoreflect

thesechanges.Allfutureplatmapsshallalsoreflectthisinformation.

(f) Theofficialmapandregistershallbemaintainedbythe

PlanningBoardClerkuponfinal

approvalofeachsubdivisionandcopiesmadeavailableforinspectionbythepublic.

 

H. UseandBulkRegulationTables.Thefollowingtablesidentifies thedimensionalrequirements(Table

1)and permitteduses(Table 2) for all land uses within the Town ofChatham. Useswhich  are

not

listedonthistableshallbedeemedprohibiteduses.



 





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 52 

Table1.TableofDimensionsforeachDistrict

.





H‐1

 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I

MinimumLotArea

(Acres)orDensity

(dwellingsperacre)

1.5

acres

1.5

acres

1dwelling

per10

acres

1dwelling

per5

acres

1dwelling

per3

acres

2acres 2

acres

MinimumWidth

(Feet)

150 150 300 300 300 200 200

MinimumYard

Dimensions(Feet)

‐ Front

‐ Each

Side‐Rear



25



25



50



50



50



25

‐

50



25

50

MaximumHeight

(Feet)

35 35 35 35 35 35 35



With regard to parcels located on Town roads, the front yard is to be measured from the center of the road. In such

cases, adding 25 feet shall be added to the otherwise minimum required front yard.

ForlotsinH1andH2intheKinderhookLakeareaasdefinedin180‐13(H),lotarea,width,andminimumyard

dimensionrequirementsofTable1maybewaivedsothatnewlotbulkdimensionsmatchthoseofadjacent

structurestoensureconsistencywithexistingdevelopment.Suchwaiver

mayoccuronlywhenpotablewaterand

wastewatersystemsareapprovedbytheColumbiaCountyDepartmentofHealth.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 53 

Table2:TableofPermittedUsesinallDistricts

P=PermittedUsewithNoPlanningBoardReviewRequired.ABuildingPermitmayberequired.

SPR=SitePlanReviewandApprovalbythePlanningBoardrequired.

SUP=SpecialUsePermitandSitePlanReviewandApprovalbythePlanningBoardrequired.Asite

planreviewisnotrequiredaspartof

aspecialusepermitprocessonlywhenthespecialuseistobewithinanexistingstructureandnochange s tosuchstructure,signage,

lighting,parkinglotorothersitefeaturesareproposed.

X=ProhibitedUse

X‐(P2)=ProhibitedUseandUnderFurther

ReviewbyTownofChathamasPartofPhase2OngoingImplementationofComprehensivePlan

MSP=ModifiedSitePlanReviewandApprovalbythePlanningBoardrequired.Allusesnotincludedinthetableshallbedeemedtobe

prohibited.



Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

Accessoryresidential

dwellinginexisting

ornewaccessory

building

SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP X X 180‐36

Accessoryresidential

dwellinginexisting

single‐familydwelling

SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP X 180‐36

Accessorybuildings

usedforresidential

uses:garages,sheds,

poolhouse,personal

workshop

Pif≤200sf;

SPRif>200sf

Pif≤200sf;

SPRif>200sf

Pif≤700sf;

SPRif>700sf



Pif≤700sf;

SPRif>700sf

Pif≤700sf;



SPRif>700sf

Pif≤700sf;

SPRif>700sf

Pif≤700sf;

SPRif>700sf

180‐36

and180‐36E

forAccessory

UseSitePlan

Review



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 54 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

Accessorybuildings

usedforcommercial

uses:office,studio,

workshopfor

business,<5000sf

SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP SPR SPR 180‐36

Adaptivereuseof

buildingswithan

alloweduse

Pifnewuseis

Permitted,

SPRfor

Changeof

Use,SUPif

newuse

requires

specialuse

permit

Pifnewuseis

Permitted,

SPRfor

Changeof

Use,SUPif

newuse

requires

specialuse

permit

Pifnewuseis



Permitted,

SPRfor

Changeof

Use,SUPif

newuse

requires

specialuse

permit

Pifnewuseis

Permitted,

SPRfor

Changeof

Use,SUPif

newuse

requires

specialuse

permit

Pifnewuseis

Permitted,

SPRfor

Changeof

Use,SUPif

newuse

requires

special

use

permit

Pifnewuse

isPermitted,

SPRfor

Changeof

Use,SUPif

newuse

requires

specialuse

permit

Pifnewuse

isPermitted,

SPRfor

Changeof

Use,SUPif

newuse

requires

specialuse

permit

180‐29(C)

Agriculture,

AgriculturalLand

Uses,Farm

Operation

MSP MSP P P P P P 180‐32,35,

52,29(C)

Agri‐tourismonand

relatedtoaFarm

Operationwithno

overnight

accommodations

MSP MSP MSP MSP MSP X X 180‐58(Y)and

29(C)

AnimalCamp X X SUP SUP X SPR X 180‐58(A),

Maximumof

10dogsinRL1

andRL2,25

dogsinB



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 55 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

Animal

Hospital/Veterinary

Office

X X SUP SUP SUP SPR SPR

180‐58(A),30

(H),Onlywith

accessfroma

Stateor

County

highway

AnimalSlaughter

Facility

X X X X X SUP SUP



AutomotiveRepair,

Commercial

X X X X X SUP SPR 180‐58(B)and

(C)

Bank X X X X X SPR X 

Bed & Breakfast

located on farm

in support ofa

farm operation

(agritourism)

MSPifina

NYSAg

District;SUP

ifnotinNYS

AgDistrict

SUP MSPifina

NYSAg

District;SUP

IfnotinNYS

AgDistrict

MSPifina

NYSAg

District;SUP

notinNYS

AgDistrict

MSPifina

NYSAg

District;SUPif

notinNYS

AgDistrict





X  X  180‐58(D)and

(Y)

BedandBreakfast

(notaspartofafarm

operation)

SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP X  X  180‐58(D)and

(Z)



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 56 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

Brewery,Cidery,

Winery,Distillery(as

partofafarm

operation)

MSPifona

farm

operationin

NYSAg

District

MSPifona

farm

operationin

NYSAg

District

MSPifona

farm

operationin

NYSAg

District

MSPifona

farm

operationin

NYSAg

District

MSP

ifona

farm

operationin

NYSAg

District

SPR  SPR  

Brewery,Cidery,

Winery,Distillery(not

aspartofafarm

operation)

X X SUP SUP SUP SPR  SPR 

Onlywith

accessfroma

Stateor

County

highway

Campground X X SUP SUP X X  X  180‐58(HH)

CaretakerDwelling SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP  SUP  SeeAccessory

Dwelling

Cemetery X X SUP SUP X X  X 

180‐58(E),

requires3acre

minimumlot

size

CommunityCenter SUPonlyifan

adaptive

reuseof

existing

structure

SUPonlyifan

adaptive

reuseof

existing

structure

SUPonlyifan

adaptive

reuseof

existing

structure

SUPonlyifan

adaptive

reuseof

existing

structure

SUPonlyifan

adaptive

reuseof

existing

structure

SUP  SUPonlyif



anadaptive

reuseof

existing

structure

180‐58(G),

maximum

building

footprintof

2,500square

feet,Onlywith

accessfroma

Stateor

County

highway



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 57 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

CommercialDayCare

Center

X X X X X SPR  SPR 180‐58(F),

Onlywith

accessfroma

Stateor

County

highway

Commercial

Recreation,Indoor

X X X X X SPR  X 180‐58(G)

Communicationor

BroadcastToweror

Facility

See180‐23.AllowedonlyinT1,T2,andT3districts    

ContinuingCare

Retirement

Communities

includingnursing

home

SUP SUP X X SUP X  X Seealso18058

(FF),Onlywith

accessfroma

Stateor

County

highway

ConvenienceStoreno

drivethru

X X X X X SUP  SUP 180‐58(K)

DayCamp,Small SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP X  X 

180‐58(HH),



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 58 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

DayCamp,Large X X SUP SUP X X X

180‐58(HH),

Onlywith

accessfroma

Stateor

County

highway

DayCamp,Incidental P P P P P X X

180‐58

DayCareCenter

servingmorethansix

children

SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP  SUP 

180‐58(F)

DryCleaner X X X X X SUP  SUP  180‐30(H)

ElectricVehicle

ChargingStation

P P P P P P  P  180‐58(JJ)

Excavationaspartof

constructionofother

permitteduse

P P P P P P  P  180‐54

FamilyDayCarein

homeuptosix

children

P P P P P P  P  180‐58(F)

FarmWorker

Housing

MSP X MSP MSP MSP X  X  180‐36(B)



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 59 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

FoodProcessingnot

aspartofaFarm

OperationoraHome

Occupation

X X X X X X  SUP  

Forestry,Commercial

TimberHarvesting

See180‐45RegulationofTimbering  

FuelStorageFacility

notfarm‐related

X X X X X SUP  SUP  180‐58(H)

FuneralHome SUP SUP X  X SUP SPR  SPR  

GroupHomes P P P  P P P  P  180‐58(I)

HealthClub X X X  X X SPR  SPR  180‐58(G)

Accessonly

fromStateor

County

highway

Healthcareand/or

DentalOffices

X X X  X X SPR  SUP  180‐58(R)

HomeOccupation‐

Minor(Seeshort

termrentalforthat

 use)



P P P  P P P  P  180‐41

HomeOccupation‐

Intermediate

SPR SPR SPR  SPR SPR SPR  SPR  180‐41



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 60 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

HomeOccupation–

Major(Seeshort

termrentalforthat

use)

SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP SPR  SPR  180‐41

HotelorMotel X X X  X X SUP  SUP  180‐58(GG)

HouseofWorship SPR SPR SPR  SPR SPR SPR  SPR  

HuntingPreserve X X SUP SUP X X  X  Asper

AppendixB

and180‐58

(J)

Kennels X X SUP SUP X SPR  X  180‐58(A),

Maximumof

10dogsin

RL1andRL2,

25dogsinB

Library SPR SPR X  X SUP SPR  X  

LightIndustryand

LightManufacturing

X X X X X X SUP 180‐34and

180‐58(N)

LimitedCommercial

Facility,nodrive

throughoperation,

notpartoffarm

operation,<3000sf

SUP SUP X X X SPR SPR 180‐30(H)and

shallnot

exceed3,000

squarefoot

building

footprint



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 61 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

Long‐Term

ResidentialRental

P P P P P X X 

MembershipClub SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP SPR SPR

180‐58(G),

maximum

building

footprintof

2,500square

feet,Onlywith

accessfrom

StateorCounty

highway

Mini‐warehouseor

Self‐Storage,

Commercial

X X X X X SPRifinan

existing

building;SUP

ifinnew

building

SPRifinan

existing

building;SUP

ifinnew

building

180‐58(L)

Mining,Commercial See180‐24.A llowedonlywithestablishmentofaMiningFloatingZone 

Mixed‐Use

(residential&

commercial)inone

structure

SUP SUP X X X SUP SUP 

MobileHomePark SeeTowofChathamTownCodeChapter151(MobileHomes).AllowedinalldistrictsonlywithalicenseapprovedbytheTown

BoardasperTownCodeChapter151

MotorVehicle

Salesroom,SalesLot

withautorepairas

accessoryuse

X X X X X SUP SUP 180‐58(B),

mustbe

screenedfrom

viewfrom

road



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 62 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

Museum,Art  Gallery,

TheaterorCultural

Facility,Nature

Center/Ecology

OutdoorUse



SUP SUP X X X SPR SPR 180‐58(M)

and(U)

Multi‐Unit

ResidentialDwelling

<4units

SUP SUP X X SUP X X 180‐58(FF)

Non‐Commercial

Forestry&Timbering

>1acre

See180‐45RegulationofTimbering     

Non‐Commercial

Forestryand

Timbering<1acre





See180‐45RegulationofTimbering     

Nursery/Greenhouse

Structure,

Commercial

MSPifona

farm

operationin

NYSAg

District,

regulatedas

retail

operationif

not

MSPifona

farm

operationin

NYSAg

District,

regulatedas

retail

operationif

not

MSPifona

farm

operationin

NYSAg

District,

regulatedas

retail

operationif

not



MSPifona

farm

operationin

NYSAg

District,

regulatedas

retail

operationif

not

MSPifona

farm

operationin

NYSAg

District,

regulatedas

retail

operationif

not

SPR SPR 



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 63 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

OfficeBuilding X X X X X

SPRif≤2000

sf;SUPif>

2000sfto

20,000sf

SPRif≤2000

sf;SUPif>

2000sfto

30,000sf

180‐58(R),

maximum

20,000square

footbuilding

footprintinB

and30,000sf

inI

OutdoorFiring

Range,publicor

private

X X SUP SUP X X X Asper

AppendixB

and180‐58(J)

OutdoorWood

Furnaces

X X SPR SPR X SPR SPR 180‐58(S)

Personal Service≤

2,000sf

SUP SUP X X X Pifin

existing

structure,

SPRifnew

Pifinexisting

structure,

SPRifnew



PondAssociatedwith

FarmOperation

MSP MSP MSP MSP MSP X X 180‐58(CC)

PondorDetention

BasinforResidential

orNon‐farm

CommercialUse

SPR SPR SPR SPR SPR X X 180‐58(CC)

PortableTemporary

OutdoorStorage

PodsforResidential

P P P P P P P 180‐58(Q)

PrivateClub X X X X X SUP X 



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 64 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

PrivateSchool X X X X X SUP SUP 180‐58(AA)

PrivateOutdoor

RecreationalCourtor

AthleticField

P;SUPifmore

than1

P;SUPifmore

than1

P;SUPifmore

than1

P;SUPif

morethan1

P;SUPifmore

than1

P P 180‐58(G)

PrivateSwimming

Pools>300sfsurface

area

P P P P P X X 180‐58(DD)

PrivateSwimming

Poolsaboveground

and≤300sfof

surfacearea

P P P P P X X 180‐58(DD)

PublicBuilding SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP Mustprovide

landscaped

bufferwhen

adjacenttoa

residence

PublicUtility SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP 

Recreation‐facility,

outdoor(commercial)

X X X SUP SUP SUP X

180‐58(G),

Onlywith

accessfroma

StateorCounty

highway

ResearchorTesting

Laboratory

X X X X X SUP SPR 180‐58(N)



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 65 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

Residential

Cluster/Conservation

Subdivision

SeeChapter135    X X 

Restaurant,NoDrive

Through

SUP SUP X X X SPR SPR 180‐58(O),

max.15,000sf

building

footprint

RetailSales>3000

squarefeetwitha

maximumof20,000

sfinBand30,000sf

inIdistricts.For

retailsales≤3000sf,

seelimited

commercialfacility

X X X X X SPRifin

existing

building,SUP

ifinnew

building

SPRifin

existing

building,SUP

innew

buildingif

theretail

salesare

accessory

useto

principal

industrialuse

180‐58(EE),

maximum

20,000square

footbuilding

footprintinB

and30,000sf

inI

RidingAcademy SUP SUP MSP MSP  MSP X X 

RoomingHouse SUP SUP SUP SUP SUP X X 

SeniorHousing SUP SUP X X X SUP X Seealso180‐

58



(FF)

Short‐TermRental:

Class1Non‐Home

Occupation

Pwithpermit

andall

requirements

per180‐58

(Z)

Pwithpermit

andall

requirements

per180‐58

(Z)

Pwithpermit

andall

requirements

per180‐58

(Z)

Pwithpermit

andall

requirements

per180‐58

(Z)

Pwithpermit



andall

requirements

per180‐58

(Z)

Pwithpermit

andall

requirements

per180‐58

(Z)

Pwithpermit

andall

requirements

per180‐58

(Z)

180‐58(Z)



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 66 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

Short‐TermRental:

Class2MinorHome

Occupation

Pwithpermit

andall

requirements

per180‐58

(Z)

Pwithpermit

andall

requirements

per180‐58

(Z)

Pwithpermit

andall

requirements

per180‐58

(Z)

Pwithpermit

andall

requirements

per180‐58

(Z)

Pwithpermit



andall

requirements

per180‐58

(Z)

Pwithpermit

andall

requirements

per180‐58

(Z)

Pwithpermit

andall

requirements

per180‐58

(Z)

180‐58(Z)

and180‐41

ShortTermRental:

Class3MajorHome

Occupation

SUP,with

permitand

all

requirements

of180‐58(Z)

SUP,with

permitand

all

requirements

of180‐58(Z)

SUP,with

permitand

all

requirements

of180‐58(Z)

SUP,with

permitand

all

requirements

of180‐58(Z)

SUP,with

permit

and

all

requirements

of180‐58(Z)

SPR,with

permitand

all

requirements

of180‐58(Z)

SPR,with

permitand

all

requirements

of180‐58(Z)

180‐58(Z)and

180‐41

ShortTermRental:

Class4Investment

Property



X X X X X SUP with

permit

per 180‐

58(Z)

SUP with

permit

per 180‐

58(Z)

180‐58(Z)

Sign

TobereviewedandapprovedbyPlanningBoardwhenpartofaprojectrequiringSitePlanReview(SPR)or

SpecialUsePermitapproval(SUP).IfnotpartofaSPRorSUPprocess,signtobepermittedbyCode

EnforcementOfficerandshallmeetallsignrequirements.



180‐46

Single‐Family

Dwelling

P  P  P  P  P  X X Seealso

Chatham

TownCode

Chapter151

forMobile

and

Manufactured

Homes

 SmallMine



 X  X  SUP  SUP X  X X 180‐39



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 67 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

SmallRecreational

AreaandPocketPark

(aspartofa

conservation

subdivision)

P  P  P  P  P  SPR X 180‐58(V)

SolarFarm,onlyin

NYSAgricultural

District,orasshown

onSolarOverlay

Districtmapasmay

exist

X  X  SUP  SUP SUP  X X 180‐58(X)

SolarPanelsfor

IndividualOn‐Site

Residential,Farmor

BusinessUseupto25

kwGroundMounted

SPR  SPR  SPR  SPR SPR  SPR SPR 180‐58(W)

SolarPanelsfor

IndividualOn‐Site

Residential,Farmor

BusinessUseupto25

kwRoofMounted

P  P  P  P  P  P P 180‐58(W)

StorageFacility,

Commercial(travel

trailer,cars,boats,

andotheritems)

X  X  X  X  X  SPRifinan

existing

building;

SUPifin

newbuilding

SPRifinan

existing

building;

SUPifinnew

building

180‐58(P),

maximum

15,000square

footbuilding

footprint



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 68 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

TemporaryLiving

Structure[1]

Permitfrom

CEO



Permitfrom

CEO

Permitfrom

CEO

Permitfrom

CEO

Permitfrom

CEO

Permitfrom

CEO

Permitfrom

CEO

180‐53

TemporaryRoadside

Stand

P P P P P P P 180‐52(C),

180‐25,180‐

29,180‐46

Townhouse SUP SUP X X SUP X X 

Two‐FamilyDwelling,

whetherasanew

structureor

conversion

P P P P P X X 

WaterStorageFacility

oringroundreservoir

SPR SPR SPR SPR SPR SPR SPR 180‐58(BB)

WeddingReceptions,

PartiesandSpecial

Eventsaspartof

FarmOperation,

Commercial(Does

notincludeprivate

weddings,partiesor

specialevents)

MSP MSP MSP MSP MSP X X 180‐58(Y)

SeeBedand

Breakfastas

partoffarm

operation

when

overnight

lodgingis

included.

WeddingReceptions,

PartiesandSpecial

Eventsnotpartof

X X X X X SUP SUP 



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 69 

Use H‐1 H‐2 RL1 RL2 RL3 B I OtherUse‐

Specific

Requirements

FarmOperation,

commercial(Does

notincludeprivate

weddings,partiesor

specialevents)

WindTurbinefor

individualresidence,

farmorbusinessuse

MSPifina

NYSAg

District;X

otherwise

MSPifina

NYSAg

District;X

otherwise

MSPifina

NYSAg

District;SUP

IfNot

MSPifina

NYSAg

District;SUP

IfNot

MSPifina



NYSAg

District;SUP

IfNot

MSPifina

NYSAg

District;SUP

IfNot

MSPifina

NYSAg

District;SUP

IfNot

180‐58(T)

[1]Arecreationalvehicleusedformorethan30daysbutlessthansixmonthsshallalsobeconsideredatemporarylivingstructureandshallmeetall

requirementsof180‐58(II).







Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 70 

§180‐16SourceWaterProtection



A. Additionaldocumentationrelatedtolocationofnewwaterwellsshallberequiredforminoror

majorsubdivisionspursuanttoChapter170(SubdivisionRegulations).

B. TheminimumseparationdistancesfornewwaterwellsshallbeasperNewYorkStateandColumbia

CountyHealthDepartmentrequirements:



ContaminantSource

SeparationDistanceto

WaterWell

(Feet)

Chemicalstoragesitesnotprotectedfromtheelements(e.g.,saltandsand/salt 300

Landsurfaceapplicationorsubsurfaceinjectionofeffluentordigestedsludgefroma

Municipalorpublicwastewatertreatmentfacility



200

Landsurfaceapplicationorsubsurfaceinjectionofseptagewaste 200

Landsurfacespreadingorsubsurfaceinjectionofliquidorsolidmanure 200

StorageAreasforManurepiles 200

Barnyard,silo,barnguttersandanimalpens 100

WastewatertreatmentabsorptionsystemslocatedincoarsegravelorintheDirect

pathofdrainagetoawell



200

Fertilizerand/orpesticidemixingand/orcleanupareas 150

Seepagepit(followingseptictank) 150

Undergroundsinglewalledchemicalorpetroleumstoragevessels 150

Absorptionfieldorbed 100

Containedchemicalstoragesitesprotectedfromtheelements(e.g.saltandsand/salt

storagewithincoveredstructures)



100

Septicsystemcomponents(non‐watertight) 100

Intermittentsandfilterwithoutawatertightliner 100

SanitaryPrivypit 100

Surfacewastewaterrechargeabsorptionsystemconstructedtodischargestormwater

fromparkinglots,roadwaysordriveways



100

Cemeteries 100

Sanitaryprivywithawatertightvault 50

Septictank,aerobicunit,watertighteffluentlinetodistributionbox 50

Sanitarysewerorcombinedsewer 50

Surfacewaterrechargeabsorptionsystemwithnoautomotive‐relatedWastes

(e.g.,clear‐waterbasin,clear‐waterdrywell)



50

Stream,lake,watercourse,drainageditch,orwetland 25

Allknownsourcesofcontaminationotherwisenotshownabove 100





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 71 

C. ThePlanningBoardmayrequiresubmittalofcopiesofthefollowingaspartofanysiteplan,special

use,orsubdivisionreviewprocess:

• CopiesofNewYorkStateDepartmentofEnvironmentalConservationWellCompletionReports

forcompletedwell(s)(includingthewelllogandpumptestdata).

• Anyandallwaterqualitytestingresults.

• Proposedindividualwatersupplysystemdetailssuchaspumps,storage,treatment,controls,

etc.



D. ThePlanningBoardmayrequireanynewmajorsubdivisionthatreliesonon‐sitegroundwater

withdrawalsand/oron‐sitesewagedisposaltocompleteahydrogeologicalstudy.Thepurposesof

suchhydrogeologicalstudiesareto:(1)assess

theadequacyoftheavailablegroundwatersupplyto

supporttheproposeddevelopment;and(2)evaluatethepotentialimpactsforadverseimpacts

uponanynearbygroundw aterusersandsurfacewaters.Indeterminingtheneedfora

hydrogeologicalstudy,thePlanningBoardshouldbeguidedbytheSourceWaterProtectionStudy

forthe

TownofChathammapsofareaswithlowerthanaveragewellyields(Figure8)orhigher

hydrogeologicsensitivity(Figure12).

E. ThePlanningBoardshallrequireahydrogeologicalstudyforanyproposedprojectthathas

projectedon‐sitegroundwaterwithdrawals and/oron‐sitesewagedisposalflowsequaltoor

exceeding

1,000gallonsperdaywiththeexceptionofminorsubdivisionsandagriculturaluses.

F. Thebasisforapprovalofaprojectsubjecttoahydrogeologicalstudyshallincludethefollowing

criteria:

(1) Adequacyofcontrol measurestopreventgroundwaterorsurfacewatercontamination.

(2) Theproposedusewillnotresultin

reductionsingroundwaterlevels orchangesingroundwater

qualitythatlimittheabili tyofagroundwaterusertowithdrawgroundwater.

§180‐17through22RESERVED



§180‐23.T‐1TowerOne,T‐2TowerTwo,T‐3TowerThree.



A. Thesespecialoverlayareasprovidelocationsfortheconstructionofcommunicationandbroadcast

towersbyspecialusepermitandinaccordancewithfederalandstatelaw.Allrequirementsof180‐

38(CommunicationorBroadcastTowersorFacilities)shallbemetforallcommunicationand

broadcasttowerswithintheseOverlay

DistrictsoranywherewithintheTownofChatham.Minimum

setbackrequirementsofthevariousaffectedunderlyingzonesshallnotbereducedbythe

implementationofthesezones.SuchsetbacksshallbeincreasedwithintheT‐1,T‐2,andT‐3Zones

asper180‐23and18038.Additionally,thebase

ofanyguywireshallbesubjecttothenormal

setbackrequirementsoftheunderlyingzoneinwhichtheproposedtoweristobesited.However,

noapplicantshallreceiveaspecialusepermitinZonesT‐2andT‐3unlesstheapplicantprovides 

sufficientevidenceasestablishedby

propagationmapspreparedbyaradiofrequencyengineer,to

showthatatowerinsuchzoneisnecessarytoprovidereasonablecoveragewherecoverageisnot

beingprovidedbyanyothercarrierwithintheTownofChathamassetforthhereinafter.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 72 

B. Thefollowingthreespecialoverlaycommunicationandbroadcasttowerandfacilityzoningdistricts

withintheTownofChathamareherebycreated:



(1) DistrictT‐1,consistingoftheareaoflandwithintheNewYorkStateThruwayright‐of‐way

commencingandenteringtheHamletofNorthChathamat

orneartheintersectionofState

Route203andSmithRoadandtraversingtheTowninagenerallysoutheasterlydirectionand

exitingtheTownintheHamletofEastChathamatorneartheintersectionofCountyRoute9

andOldMillStreet;



(2) DistrictT‐2,consistingofthe

areaoflandwithin2,000feetofthecenterlineoftheTaconic

StateParkwayright‐of‐wayboundedbytheTownofChatham/VillageofChatham/Townof

Ghent/TownofAusterlitzTownlineonthesouthandNYSRoute295tothenorth,exceptany

areawithin500feetofNYS

Route295;and



(3) DistrictT‐3,consistingoftheareaoflandboundedbytheTownofChatham/Townof

KinderhookTownlineandRoute203onthewest;theConrailtracksonthesouth;GooldRoad

ontheeast;andSutherlandandSullivanRoadonthenorth.



C. Antenna

arraysshallbeallowedontallstructuresthroughouttheTown,providedthattheZoning

BoardofAppealsdeterminesthatsuchinstallationwillnotextendtheheightofthestructuremore

thanfivefeet,canbeappropriatelycamouflagedandotherwiseconformstotherequirementsof

thischapter.



§180‐24.MiningFloatingMZone.

MiningofallkindsisprohibitedthroughouttheTownofChathamexceptasspecificallysetforthinthis

section.Smallminesextractin gmorethan100cubicyards,butlessthan750cubicyardsmaybe

permittedthroughestablishmentofaMiningSpecialPermitpursuanttoSection180‐39.Allmines

extracting

>750cubicyardsperyearshallonlybeallowedafterestablishmentofaMiningFl oatingM

Zonepursuanttothissection.LargeminesshallalsorequireavalidminingpermitissuedbytheNYS

DepartmentofEnvironmentalConservation.TheTownBoardseekstopromotethesafety,healthand

generalwelfare

oftheresidentsoftheTownofChathambyremovingthedangertohealth,safetyand

lifecausedbycreationofexcessivenoiseand/orlight;excessivequantitiesofdust;deepexcavations

remainingintheground; trafficdangers;ThereisherebycreatedaMiningFloatingZonelocatedas

shownandsodesignated

ontheZoningMapoftheTownofChatham,whichisapartoftheCodeofthe

TownofChatham,andshallbeaddedto§180‐10thereof.EnactmentofalocallawbytheTownBoardis

requiredtolocateanMZone.AnMZonemaybe

createdonlywithintheRL‐1,RL‐2,RL‐3andIZones.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 73 

LotSize,DensityandYardDimensionsforMiningFloatingMZone 

MinimumLotSize  MinimumYardDimensions(Feet)

Area(Acres) Width(Feet) MinimumArea

PerFamily

(Acres)

Front EachSide Rear

10 400 ‐‐ 200 200 200



A. Applicationprocess.

(1) ApersonseekingtolocateanMZoneshallsubmitanapplicationtotheTownBoardbyfilingan

applicationwiththeTownClerk,signedbytheownerorownersoftheproperty orabya duly

designatedandauthorizedagentofsaidowneror

owners.



(2) OncetheTownBoardhasreceivedacompletedTownofChathamapplicationtolocateanM

Zone,itmaydecidetome etwiththeapplicanttodiscuss theapplicationanddetermine

whetheradditionalinformationisneeded.TheTownBoardmay,atitsdiscretion,declineto

consideranyapplication

foraMiningFloatingZone,eitherinitially,oratanypointlaterduring

theapplicationprocess.TheTownBoard’sdecisionastowhethertoamendtheZoningLaw

pursuanttoanapplicationtoestablishanMZoneshallbetotallydiscretionary. Thereceiptof,

andreviewofanapplicationbythe

TownBoard,shallnotcreateanyobligationonthepartof

theTownBoardtoapprovesuchapplicationandtheapplicantproceedswiththeapplicationat

his/herownriskwithregardtotheeffortandexpensesconnectedtothepursuitofsuch

application.TheBoardmayalso,atitsdiscretion,

decidetoholdinformationalmeeting(s)to

obtainpublicinputontheproposal.



(3) IftheTownBoarddecidestoconsidertheapplicationtolocateanMZone,itshalltransmita

copyofthecompletedTownofChathamapplicationtoboththeZoningBoardofAppealsand

thePlanningBoard

forareviewandrecommendation.TheBoardsshallofficiallyrespondtothe

TownBoard'sreferralwithin45daysofthereceiptoftheapplicationfromtheTownBoard,

unlesseitherBoardrequestsanextensionandsuchextensionisgrantedbytheTownBoard.In

addition,thecompletedTownofChathamapplication

shallbereferredtotheColumbiaCounty

PlanningDepartmentasmayberequiredbytheNewYorkStateGeneralMunicipalLaw.



(4) TheTownBoardshallcomplywithallStateEnvironmentalQualityReviewAct(SEQRA)

requirements.



(5) IftheTownBoarddecidestoconsidertheapplicationtolocatean

MZone,theTownBoardshall

scheduleapublichearingonthepropo sedMZoneapplicationincompliancewithallapplicable

sectionsofTownLaw.TheZoningandPlanningBoards'recommendationandthereferralfrom

theColumbiaCountyPlanningDepartment,ifany,shallbeintroducedatthepublichearingand

become

apartoftheofficialmeetingminutes.



(6) Within60daysaftercompletionofthepublichearing,theTownBoardshalldeterminewhether

toapprove,approvewithconditionsordenytheapplication.Inconsideringanapplicationfor



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 74 

designationofanMZone,theTownBoardmustdeterminethattheapplicationmeetsthe

following:



(a) Theuseshallbedesigned,locatedandoperatedsoastoprotectthepublichealth,safety

andwelfareofthecommunity.

(b) Thelo cation; size;natureandintensityoftheuse;thesize

ofthesiteinrelationtotheuse;

andthelocationofthesite,withrespecttostreetsgivingaccesstotheuse,shallassurethat

theusewillbeinharmonywiththeappropriateandorderlydevelopmentofthe

neighborhoodinwhichtheusewillbelocatedandthe

natureandheightofthebuildings,

wallsandfenceswillnotdiscouragetheappropriatedevelopmentanduseofadjacentland

andbuildingsorimpairthevaluethereof.

residentialorcommercialwatersupply;drainage;nearbywetlands

andnearbycritical

environmentalareasasdefinedintheStateEnvironmentalQualityReviewActoras

establishedbytheTownofChatham.

(d) Theuseshallnotbemoreobjectionabletonearbyproperties,byreasonofaestheticor

visualimpact,noise,fumes,vibrationorflashinglights,thanwouldanypermitted

useinthe

area.

(e) Theuseshallnotgenerateunduetrafficcongestionoradversetrucktraffic,createatraffic

hazardorimpactthesafetyofpedestriansorchildrenonschoolbusroutes.

(f) TheuseshallhaveadequateroadfrontageandsafeaccessdirectlyontoapavedTown,

countyor

statehighway.

(g) TheuseshallbedesignedinaccordancewiththeapprovalstandardsspecifiedinSubsection

Dbelow.



(7) IftheTownBoarddecidestogranttheapplicationforanMZone,this chaptershallbeamended

toreflectthechangestothetextofthezoneregulations,and

thezone,appropriatelylabeled,

shallbeshownontheZoningMap.TheboundariesoftheMZoneshallbenole ssthan200feet

fromthepropertylineoftheadjacentproperties.



(8) WithinsixmonthsaftertheTownBoardhasadoptedazoningame ndmentcreatinganMZone,

the

applicantshallapplytothePlanningBoardforsiteplanapprovalpursuanttothischapter.

ThePlanningBoardshallgrantapprovalifitfindsthat thesiteplansatisfiesthestandardsand

criteriaofthissectionandthischapter.Ifmorethansixmonths’elapsebetweenTownBoard

approvaland

thesubmissionofasiteplanapplication,theMZonedesignationshallexpire,and

thepropertyshallreverttoitspreviouszoning classification,followingnoticetotheapplicant

andownerandapublichearing,unlessanextensionisgrantedtotheapplicantbytheTown

Board.



(9) If,afterthe

passageofoneyearfromthedateofsiteplanapprovalbythePlanningBoardthe

miningoperationhasnotstarted,theMZonedesignationshallexpire,andthepropertyshall

reverttoitspreviouszoningclassification,unlesstheapplicantshallobtainanextensionfrom

theTownBoard.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 75 

B. Applicationinformation.



(1) AnapplicantforaMiningFloatingZoneandsiteplanapprovalunderthissectionshallfile25

copiesofitsapplicationandanyattachmentswiththeTownClerkalongwithonecomplete

electroniccopyinpdffileformat.Theapplicationshallstatethespecificintendeduse

forthe

propertyandshallincludeaschematicsiteplandepictingtheapproximatesize,heightand

locationoftheproposedstructures,parkingareas,roads,openspace,descriptionandmaps

showingphasingoftheproject,areclamationplan,astormwaterpollutionpreventionplan,a

visualimpactassessment,anoiseassessment,a

trafficimpactanalysisandotherfacilitiesthat

areassociatedwiththeminingoperation.Uponreview,thePlanningBoardmayrequire

additionalstudiesoranalysistoadequatelydetermineiftheproposedMzonewillmeetthe

criteriaofthischapter.AnapplicationforanMZoneshallalsoincludeacompletedfull



environmentalassessmentformasrequiredbySEQRA,Article8oftheEnvironmental

ConservationLawandPart617ofTitle6oftheNewYorkCodes,RulesandRegulations.Each

copythereofshallsetforthandinclude:



(a) CopyofanydocumentsubmittedtoorreceivedfromtheNewYorkState

Departmentof

EnvironmentalConservation(the"DEC")inconnectionwithanapplicationsubmittedto

suchagency,includingbutnotlimitedtotheapplicableminingpermitgrantedbythesaid

DEC.

(b) Adetailedstatementofthenatureoftheproposedoperationandthemannerinwhichitis

proposedtobe

conducted,andofthenumberofacresoflandtobeusedinconnectionwith

theactivity.

eitherpresentlyontheareaofproposedoperationsortobebuiltthereon. 

(d) A

statementastothesourceofrequiredwatertobeutilizedintheoperationandthe

amountofsuchuseannually.

(e) Astatementastotheamountofmineralsproposedtoberemovedandthemannerof

removalthereofduringthepermitperiodandduringanysubsequentperiod.

(f)

Astatementastotheperiodoftimerequiredtocompletetheproposedminingoperation,

includinganyproposedrestorationandreclamation.

(g) Aproposedplanofreclamationoftheareaproposedforsuchusage,withastatementasto

theamountofsuchreclamationproposedtobeaccomplished withinthepermit

period,and

atimescheduleastoreclamationproposedtobeaccomplishedsubsequenttothepermit

period.Wherenoreclamationisproposed,astatementtothateffectwillbesubmitted

statingthereasonorreasonsthatreclamationisnotproposed.Whereaproposedplanof

reclamationissubmitted,aneasement

executedandacknowledgedbytheowneror,if

morethanone,theowners,runningtotheTownandpermittingentryonthelandto

performreclamationintheeventofthefailureoftheapplicanttotheTown'ssatisfaction

shallbesubmitted.

(h) Astatementsettingforththeproposedhoursof

operation;theleveloftraffictobe

producedandtheproposedroutestobeusedbysuchtrafficduringsuchtime.

(i) Anabstractoftitleorothersatisfactoryevidenceoftheownershipofthelandonwhichthe

operationistobeconducted.

(j) Astatementastothe

existinggroundwaterlevel,andthemethodologyforarrivingatsuch

statement,atthelocationproposedfortheMZone.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 76 

(k) Atopographi calmapshowingtheboundaryofthetotalpropertyonwhichtheoperationis

proposedtobeconductedandallotheradjacentpropertyandstreetsandhighwayswithin

500feetoftheperimeterofthelandonwhichtheoperationisproposedtobeconducted

and,also,showing

allstructureswithintheareaofthemap,theownersofalllandshownon

themapandthezoningclassificationofallsuchland.Suchmapshallshowcontour

elevationsattwo‐footintervalsusingUnitedStatesGeologicalSurvey data.Suchmapmay

bereferredtoasthe"topographicalsite

map."

(l) Astatementastothecurrentzoningclassificationofthelandonwhichtheoperationis

proposedtobeconducted.

(m) Atopographicalmapshowingtheboundaryofthetotalpropertyonwhichtheoperationis

proposedtobeconducteddistinctlyoutlinedandallpropertywithin500feet

thereof,with

contourelevationsattwo‐footintervalsusingUnitedStatesGeologicalSurveydataand

showing,inadistinctivefashion,proposedcontourelevationsattwo‐footheightsafter

reclamation,ifanyisproposed,andaftereachstagethereof.Suchmapmaybereferredto

asthe"reclamationplanmap."

(n) The

written,notarizedconsentofeachnon‐applicantownerofthepremisesonwhichthe

operationisproposedtobeconducted.

(o) Astatementsettingforththerecordofcomplianceforanypriorminingactivitiesofthe

applicantoranyrelatedperson.



(2)Eachsuchmapshallbepreparedbyeither

aprofessionalengineerdulylicensedbytheStateof

NewYorkorbyasurveyordulylicensedbytheStateofNewYorkandshallbecertifiedtothe

Townastotheaccuracythereofbysuchpreparer.Suchcertificationshallbeprovidedwithin

30daysofthedateof

theapplicationtotheTownBoardandshallberecertifiedwithin30days

ofthedateofthesiteplanreviewapplication,unlesssuchsiteplanreviewapplicationismade

within30daysoftheenactmentbytheTownBoardoftheMZone.Eachsuchmapshallbe

drawnin

ascaleofnotgreaterthanoneinchto100feetnorlessthanoneinchto20feet.(3)

UponacceptanceoftheapplicationandthedeemingofsametobecompletebytheTown

Board,theapplicantshallbycertifiedmailnotifyallcurrentlandownerswhoselandis

adjacent

to,directlyopposite,orwithin500’oftheperimeteroftheproposedzone,oftheapplication.

Noticeshallbemailed,returnreceiptrequested,atleast10calendardayspriortothehearing.



C. Publichearing.NonewMZonemaybelocatedandnoapprovalunderthissectionshall

beissued

underthissectionuntilafteralegallynoticedandadvertisedpublichearingbytheTownBoard,in

accordancewiththeTownCode.ThelegalnoticeshallalsobepostedontheTown'swebsite.

BeforetheTownBoardpublichearing,theTownCodeEnforcementOfficershallinvestigatethe

factsand

circumstancesoftheapplicationandsubmitareportinwritingtotheTownBoardpriorto

thepublichearing,whichreportshalleitherbereadatthepublichearingormadeavailablefor

publicinspectionduringthehearingandwhichshallincludebutnotbelimitedtoarecommendation

regarding

whethertheapplicationcomplieswiththezoningrequirementsandwhetherallitems

requiredhereinhavebeensubmitted.Nothingcontainedintheprecedingsentenceshallbedeemed

tolimitthepoweroftheTownBoardtoactontheapplicationiftheTownCodeEnforcementOfficer

failstosubmitsuchareport.





D. Approvalstandards.EachlocallawlocatinganMZoneshallinclude,butnotbelimitedto,the

followingprovisions:



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 77 

(1) Miningoperationsmayonlybeconductedbetweenthehoursof7:00a.m.and5:00p.m.,

MondaythroughFridayandbetweenthehoursof8:00a.m.and12:00noononSaturdays.

MiningoperationsmaynotoccuronanySundayorlegalholidaysassetbytheTownBoard.



(2) All

accesspointsandroadwaystotheaffectedareashallbefromapavedTown,countyorstate

highway.Novehiclesutilizingoraccessingtheaffectedareashallstop,stand,parkoridle

outsidetheaffectedarea.



(3) Allminingoperationsshallbeconductedwithoutunnecessarynoi s eandshallatall

timesbein

conformitywiththen‐enactedportionsoftheTownCoderelatingtonoise.



(4) Barriersshallbeerectedandmaintainedaroundtheareaofoperationandshall haveno

openingsotherthanagateorgatesforingressandegress,andeachsuchgateshallbekept

locked

atalltimesexceptduringtheworkinghoursoftheoperationwhentheoperatororan

ownerofthelandoranagentoremployeeoftheoperatororoftheownerisinside.Such

barriershallbemaintaineduntilreclamationoftheareaiscomplete,andafterreclamationsuch

barriershallbemaintainedaroundeachandeverypitorexcavationexceedingsixfeetindepth.

Thisstandardmaybewaivedormodifiedwithrespecttoanyparticularminingoperation,

providedtheTownBoardfindsthatthepublicsafetywillnotbejeopardized,andsubjectto

suchconditionsastheTow n

Boardmayimpose.



(5) Atnotimeshallanyminingoperationsbeconductedwithin200feetofanyadjacentproperty

lineortheboundaryofanypublicstreetorhighway.



(6) Atnotimeshallanyminingoperations,parkingofvehiclesorequipmentorstockpilingof

mineral,overburdenor

otherproductoftheminingoperationbeconductedwithin200feetof

anyresidenceorbusinessstructure.



(7) Allminingoperationsshallbeconductedinasafemanner,and all slopesshallbeexcavatedand

maintainedatsafeanglestopreventcollapseofuppergradesurfacesanddangertochildren.



(8) Noexcavationshalladverselyaffectgroundwaterlevelsofotherproperties.



(9) Allhaulagewaysshallbepavedwithblacktoporsimilarmaterialforaminimumof250feetfrom

intersectionwiththepublicroadway.Allotherhaulagewaysshallbetoppedandmaintained

withmaterialsofnolessqualitythanitem

fourgravel,orcomparablequality,withinthe

affectedarea.



(10) Anyvehicleenteringapublicroadshallbefreeofexteriordirt,mudorotherdebrisandshallbe

washedpriortoleavingthelimitsofanyaffectedarea,ifnecessary,toremovesame.



(11) Overburdenremovedinconnection

withanysuchoperationshallnotberemovedfromthe

premisesandshallbearrangedinaberm‐likeconditioninamannerdesignedtohelpprevent

noise,dust,andotheremissionsfromescapingthemine.Intheeventthattopsoilis theproduct

beingremovedfromtheminingoperation,sufficient

reservesofsuchmaterialshallbekept

withintheaffectedareasufficienttocompletethereclamationplan.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 78 



(12) Topsoilshallbere‐spreaduponthesurfaceofthelandfromwhichsuchmineralshavebeen

removedunlessthisrequirementisexpresslywaivedbytheTownBoard.



(13) Allhaulagewaysshallbeatallpointsatleast200feetfromanyresidenceorpublicbuilding,

providedthat

thisstandardmaybewaivedormodifiedbytheTow nBoard.



(14) Allmaterialsusedasfillshallbefreefromgarbage,refuse,offalorotherdeleteriousor

unwholesomematter.



(15) Allareasonwhichoverburdenhasbeenre‐spread,asrequiredhereinabove,orbyany

approvedplanofreclamation,

shallbepreparedforandseededwithgrass,unlessother

vegetationorplantingwithvinesorothercoveringisspecifiedinanapprovedplanof

reclamation.



(16) Alltruckshaulingmaterialsfromanyoperationregulatedorlicensedunderthissectionshallbe

loadedinsuchamannerasnotto

spreadorspillsuchmaterialsonanystreetorhighwaywithin

theconfinesoftheTown. 



(17) Noremovalofearthfromthegroundshallbemadeinsuchmannerastoundermine,weaken

ordepriveofsupportotherlandsinthevicinityorsoastosubstantiallyobstruct,impede

or

changethecourseoforthenaturalmovementorflowofsurfacewatertherein,orotherwise

adverselyaffectanypublicwaterway,publicbodyofwater,wetland,lake,pond,river,creek,

waterwayorbodyofwaterwhichisusedasapartofanydrainagesystem.



(18) Allfacilities,including

butnotlimitedtothatusedforthecrushing,screening,wa shing,

stockpilingorprocessingofminerals,shallatalltimesbelocatedonlyinanareaapprovedby

thePlanningBoard.



(19) InorderthattheTownbeassuredtheabilitytoenforcetheprovisionsoftheMiningFloating

Zone

issuedasperthisChapter,andhavethecompletedexcavationmeetprovisionsofthe

ZoningLawandotherapplicablelawsorordinancesoftheTown,theapplicant,uponthe

creationofaMiningFloatingZone,shallgranttotheTown,itsofficersoremployees,theright

toenterupon

thepremisestodeterminethattheprovisionsofthenewzonearebeingfulfilled

andrequiresuchworktobedoneasmaybenecessarytomeettheconditionsofthezone.



(20) Maintenance,repairandfuelingofvehiclesandequipmen tshallbeconductedsoasto

minimizeandprevent

lubricantandfuelspillstothemaximumpracticableextent.Minevehicles

andminingequipmentshallbemaintainedinproperoperatingcondition.



(21) Alldischargesofsilt,sedimentorprocesswatershallbeconfinedwithinthepermitareaunl ess

priorapprovalfromtheNewYorkStateDepartmentofEnvironmentalConservationRegional

WaterQualityEngineerisobtained.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 79 

(22) Nochemicaladditionstoprocessingwatershalloccuratanytimeunlesspriorapprovalfrom

theNewYorkStateDepartmentofEnvironmentalConservationRegionalWaterQuality

Engineerisobtained.



(23) Nopollutionofthegroundwaterorsurfacewatersshalloccur.



(24) Theapplicantshallagreetoengagein

aprogramofminesitesecuritythroughtheuseofgates

andbarrierstopreventunauthorizedentrytothemineproperty.



(25) TheapplicantshallagreetoreporttotheTownCodeEnforcementOfficerallspillsofchemicals,

includinggasoline,motoroilorhydraulicfluids,inexcessofonegallon

atanyonetime,within

onehourofdiscoveryofsuchspill.



(26) Theapplicantshallagreetofile,annually,atleast30dayspriortotheanniversarydateofthe

enactmentofacertificationthatallconditionsimposedbytherespectiveBoardsaremet,that

theminingoperationcontinues 

tobeincompliancewiththeBoard’sapprovalandproofthat

anybondrequiredisineffect.



E. Bond/insurance.

(1) IntheeventtheTownCodeEnforcementOfficerorotherdesignatedTownofficershall

determinethatthebondrequiredbyanyentityhavingjurisdictionovertheuseproposedinthe

applicationisinsufficienttocompleteitscontemplatedpurpose,orintheeventtheusedoes

notfallwithinthejurisdictionofanyothergovernmentalbodyoragencyhavingsuperior

jurisdictiontothatoftheTownBoardorthePlanningBoard,asthecasemaybe,thefilingofa

performancebond

mayberequiredasfollows:



(a) BeforethelocationofanynewMZoneortheissuanceofanypermitasperthisChapter,the

TownBoardshall,unlessitshallhavefirstdeterminedthatnobondis required,requirethat

abondbeexecutedandfiledbytheapplicant

andbyanyandallownersofthepremiseson

whichsaidoperationistobeconducted.Suchbondshallbeissuedbyasuretycompany

licensedtodobusinessintheStateofNewYork.Suchbondshallbeinanamountequalto

twicetheestimatedcostof

suchreclamationor$5,000,whicheverbethegreatersum.Such

bondmustbeapprovedbytheTownAttorneypriortotheenactmentofanylocallaw

locatinganMZone.Suchbondshallprovidethatincaseofanyfailureordefaulttoperform

theworkrequiredtobeperformedthe

bondshallbecalled,uponwrittennoticetothe

principalorprincipalsandtothesuretysentbycertifiedmailtotheiraddressesasshownin

thebond,unlesssuchfail urebecorrectedwithin90daysofthemailingofsuchnoticetothe

principal(orprincipals)andsurety.The

ninety‐daynoticeofsuchdefaultorfailuremaybe

givenatanytimeaftersuchdefaultorfailure.

(b) Ifsaiddefaultisnotcuredwithintheninety‐dayperiod,theTownshall,uponwritten

requesttothesurety,receivethefullamountofthebondandcommencereclamation.

(c)

SaidbondmaynotbecancelledforanyreasonunlessauthorizedinwritingbytheTown.

(d) IfthesuretynotifiestheprincipalorTownofitsdesiretocancelthebond,suchnoticemust

beatleast120daysinadvanceofthecancellation.Thisnoticeshallhereinafterbe

referred

toas"cancellationnotice."



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 80 

(e) Theprincipalmustreplaceanycancelledbondwithin90daysofthereceiptofcancellation

notice,andthefailuretodosoisadefaultunderthissection,triggeringtheprincipal's

requirementtocommencereclamation.Ifreclamationisnotcompletedbeforethe

expirationofthecancellationnoticeperiod,the

Townmaycallthebond dueasstatedin

SubsectionE(1)(b)above.

(f) SaidbondshallremaininfullforceandeffectuntilreleasedbytheTown,exceptthatthe

TownBoardorPlanningBoardmayreducetheamountthereofinapropercase.Priortoany

suchreleasetheTown

BoardorPlanningBoardmayrequireastatementshowingthe

mannerofcompliancewiththeplanofreclamation,andatopographicalmapoftheareaon

whichthemining operationwasconductedandtheareawithin300feetoftheperimeterof

theareaofoperation,showingcontourelevations at

intervalsofheightsoftwofeet.The

TownBoardshallreferanyrequestforreleaseofanysuchbondtotheTownCode

EnforcementOfficer,whoshallreportoncompliancewiththeplanofreclamationwithin15

daysofsuchreferral.

(g) Saidbondshallalsoprovidethatthetimefor

compliancewithanysuchplanofreclamation

shallbedeemedtobeacceleratedandterminate120daysafterthedateofrevocationof

suchpermitpursuanttotheprovisionsofthissectionasineffectatthetimeofsuch

revocation.

(h) Inlieuofsuchbond,theTownBoard

orPlanningBoardmaypermitaletterofcreditora

cashdeposittobemadewiththeTown,subjecttotheapprovals,conditionsandforfeitures

specifiedhereinaboveinthecaseofabond.



(2) BeforetheenactmentofalocallawasperthisChapter,theapplicantshallpresent,

tothe

Town,certificatesofinsuranceevidencingtheacquisitionofliabilityinsurancecoverageinthe

amountsdeemedbytheTownBoardtobeappropriateandbyresolutionfordeath/bodily

injuryandpropertydamage.Saidinsuranceshallbemaintainedthroughout thelifeofthe

MiningFloatingZoneandforathree‐year

periodafterreclamationhasbeencompleted,and

theaforementionedcertificatesshallprovidefor120days'noticetotheTownpriorto

cancellationbythecarrier.



F. Exceptions.Thefollowingoperationsandusesareherebyexceptedfromtheapplicationof§180‐24:



(1) AllexistingminespermittedbytheTown

andoperatingonthedateofenactmenthereofshall

continuetobeoperatedpursuanttothetermsandconditionsoftheirrespectivepermits.



(2) Excavationorremovalofearth,mineralorrockincidenttohighway , sidewalkordriveway

constructiontotheextentsuchtopsoil,sand,earthand/orgravelisremoved

solelyfromthe

bedofsaidhighway,sidewalkordriveway.



(3) Themovingofearth,mineralorrockfromoneportionofpremisestoanotherportionofthe

samepremisesasanincidenttoconstructionofabuildingorotherimprovementtolandoras

anincidenttofarmingor

landscaping,subjecttotherequirementsforobtainingagrading

permitsetforthat§180‐54ofthischapter.



(4) Removalofearth,mineralorrockfromtheareaofasubdivisiongrantedfinalapprovalbythe

PlanningBoardoftheTownofChathampursuanttoanythen‐applicablezoninglaw

ofthe



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 81 

TownofChatham,providedthatanysuchremovalbeinaccordancewithplansand

specificationsapprovedbysaidPlanningBoard.



(5) Constructionofsewage‐disposalsystems.



(6) AnyoftheexceptionssetforthintheNewYorkStateAgricultureandMarketsLaw.



(7) Anysanitarylandfillordumpoperation

conductedbytheTownofChathamoronitsbehalf.



(8) AnyminingoperationconductedbytheTownofChatham.



(9) Gradingper mitsasdefinedin§180‐9ofthischapter.



(10) Small‐scaleminingasdefinedin§180‐9ofthischapter.



G. Postingandentryon

postedpremises.



(1) Theoperatorunderthissectionshallcausetheoutsideperimeterofthepremisesonwhichthe

miningoperationisconducted,ortheoutsideperimeterofthatportionofthepremiseson

whichsuchoperationisconducted,tobepostedwithappropriatenoticeshavingdimensionsof

notless

than11inchessquare,containing,withlettersofnotlessthanoneinchinheight,the

followinglanguage:



"Notrespassing.Thesepremises aresubjecttoalocallawoftheTownofChatham,Columbia

County,NewYork.Unauthorizedentryuponthesepremisesconstitutesanoffensepunishable

byafinenot

exceeding$100orimprisonmentfornotmorethansixmonths,orboth." 



(2) Suchnoticesshallbepostednotfartherapartthan100feetandshallbepostedoneachsideof

eachentranceintothepremisesonwhichsuchoperationisbeingconducted.Noperson,other

thanthoselawfully

engagedinoperationsthereonortheTownCodeEnforcementOfficer, 

policeofficerorauthorizedTownrepresentative,shallenterontoanysuchpostedpremises.



H. Reimbursementofreviewcosts;indemnification.



(1) Theapplicantunderthissectionshallberequiredtoestablishanescrowaccounttoreimburse

theTownofChathamfor

thelegitimatecostsofreviewassociatedwiththeuseofprofessionals

qualifiedtoreviewtherequiredplans,reportsandothertechnicalinformationsubmittedin

supportofanapplicationforaminingoperationorsmall‐scalemine.Theinitialamountofthe

escrowaccountshallbedeterminedonacase‐by‐

casebasisbytheTownBoardand/orPlanning

Boardtobereasonableandnecessarytocoverthecostofthereviewtobeincurredbythe

Town.AllnecessaryreviewingprofessionalsassistingtheTowninsuchreviewsshallprovidean

estimateoftheapproximatecostofreviewservicestothePlanning

BoardorZoningBoardof

Appealsinordertoestablishtheescrow.TheTownshallsubmitanitemizedbilltotheapplicant

atleastfivebusinessdayspriortoanydeductionofsuchamountbilledfromtheescrow

account.Therespective Boards mayperiodicallyandattheirdiscretionrequirethe

replenishmentoftheescrowaccount.Uponcompletionoftheapplicationandreviewprocess,



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 82 

anybalanceremainingintheescrowaccountshallberefundedtotheapplicantwithin30days

ofthesubmissionandpaymentofthefinalbillbytheTownandpaymentinfull ofall

applicationandapprovalfees.



(2) Inanyapprovalmade,therespectiveBoardsshallrequireanirrevocable

commitmentfromthe

ownerofthemineandrelatedfacilities,theownerofthelanduponwhichthemineislocated,

andanyandalllesseesandtheaffiliatesofanyoftheabove,todefend,indemnify,andholdthe

TownofChatham,itsboards,officials,employeesandagents,free

andharmlessfrom

judgmentsorcosts,includingreasonableattorneys'fees,arisingdirectlyorindirectlyfromthe

construction,use,operationand/orreclamationoftheminingoperationandaffectedareas

exceptastothosearisingfromtheTown'sownnegligence.



I. Complaints.Anypersonmayfileacomplaintofanyviolationof

thissection,inwriting,withthe

TownCodeEnforcementOfficer,whoshallinvestigatethesameandreportthereontotheTown

Boardwithin10days.



J. Abandonmentofuse;rescissionorsuspensionoflocallawauthorizingMiningFloatingZone.



(1) IftheTownCodeEnforcementOfficer,oranyauthorizedreprese ntative

oftheTown,findsthat

anyminingoperationpermittedasperthisChapterisnotbeingconductedinaccordancewith

theprovisionsofthissectionorofthesiteplanapprovalunderwhichsuchoperationis

conducted,issuedeitherunderthissectionorpriortotheeffectivedateher eof,or

is

abandonedasdefinedherein,suchfactsshallbereported,bysuchTownCodeEnforcement

OfficerorotherTownrepresentative,totheTownBoard,whichmaydirectthatanorderin

writingbeservedupontheapplicantdirectingthattheconditionsthereinspecifiedasbeingin

violationofthissectionor

suchpermitberemediedwithinfivedaysafterdateofserviceof

suchorder.



(2) Suchordermaybeservedeitherbypersonaldeliveryupontheoperatorinthesamemanneras

apersonaldeliveryofasummonsorbycertifiedmail .Ifserved bycertifiedmail,serviceshallbe



deemedtohavebeenmadefivedaysaftermailingthereof.Ifsuchconditionsarenotremedied

withinfivedaysaftersuchservice,theTownBoardmaycauseanoticeinwritingtobeserved

upontheoperatordirectinghimtoappearbeforetheTownBoardonadateandat

aplace

withintheTownspecified insuchnoticeandshowcausewhysuchlocallaworpermitshould

notberescindedorsuspended.



(3) Suchnoticemaybeservedeitherbypersonaldeliveryontheoperatorinthesamemannerasa

summonsorbycertifiedmail;ifserved

bycertifiedmail,serviceshallhavebeendeemedto

havebeenmadefivedaysaftermailingthereof.Thehearingshall besetforadateatleast10

daysandnotmorethan30daysafterserviceofthenotice.TheTownBoardmayholdsuch

hearingandtestimonyofwitnesses

maybeheardthereat.



(4) TheTownBoard,aftersuchhearing,mayelecttorescindsuchlocallaworsiteplanapprovalor

suspendthesame.Suchsuspensionmay,byitsterms,leadtoarescissionofthelocallawupon

failureoftheoperatortocomplywiththeterms

ofsuspension.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 83 

(5) Norescissionorsuspensionofsuchlocallaworsiteplanapprovalshallbeorderedbysuch

Boardintheabsenceofafindingofaviolationthereof.Anorderofsuspensionorrevocation

shallbeservedupontheoperatoreitherbypersonaldeliverytotheoperatororby

certified

mailandshallbeeffectiveimmediatelyuponservice;ifserviceismadebycertifiedmail,service

ofsuchordershallbedeemedcompletedfivedaysaftermailing.Allservicebycertifiedmail

underthisactionshallbemailedtotheoperatorathisaddressasshownintheapplication

under

thislocallawand,inaddition,ifamorecurrentaddressbeknown,tosuchcurrent

address.ThissectionshallnotprecludetheTownfromenforcingthissectionbyanyother

lawfulmeans,includinganyactionforapenalty,forinjunctiveorotherrelief.



K. TerminationofMiningFloatingZone.

IntheeventthattheTownBoardelectstorescindalocallaw

orrevokeasiteplanapprovalenactedorgrantedinaccordancewiththeaboveprovisions;the

TownBoarddeemstheminingoperationtobeabandonedinaccordancewiththedefinitionherein;

ortheTownCodeEnforcementOfficer

certifiesthatreclamationhasbeencompletedinaccordance

withthereclamationplanfortheM Zone,theMiningFloatingZonecreatedbylocallawauthorized

hereinshallterminateandthelandwithinthesaidzoneshallreturntoitsformerzoningdesignation

setforthintheTownCodeoftheTown

ofChatham.



L. Penaltiesforoffenses.Eachandeveryviolationoftheprovisionsofthissectionoroftheconditions

and/orrestrictionsofapermitissuedasperthisChapterorofapermitissuedundertheCodeofthe

TownofChatham,NewYork,priortotheeffectivedate

hereof,foraminingoperationshallbe

deemedanoffenseagainstthissectionandshallbepunishable byafineofnotmorethan$250or

imprisonmentfornotmorethansixmonths,orboth.Eachday'scontinuedviolationofthissection

shallconstituteaseparateandadditionalviolation. 



Injunctiverelief.NothingcontainedhereinshallprohibittheTownBoardfrommaintaining,andthe

TownBoardisauthorizedtomaintain,anactionorproceedinginthenameoftheTowninanycourt

ofcompetentjurisdictiontocompelstrictcomplia ncewiththeprovisionsofthissectionandthe

conditionsof

anypermitissuedasperthisChapteroranyvalidpermitissuedbythePlanningBoard

and/orZoningBoardofAppealspriortotheeffectivedateofthissection,ortorestrainbyinjunction

theviolationofanyprovisionofthissectionorofanysuchpermit.



N. Administrativerules

andregulations.TheTownBoardmay,atanytimeandfromtimetotime,by

resolution,adoptproceduralrulesandregulationswithrespecttoapplicationsandwithrespectto

theadministrationandenforcementofthissection,providedthesamearenotinconflictwiththis

section.



O. Severability.Ifany

clause,sentence,paragraph,sectionorpartofthissectionshallbeadjudicated

byanycourtofcompetentjurisdictiontobeinvalid,suchjudgmentshallnotaffecttheremainderof

thissectionbutshallbeconfinedinitsoperationtotheclause,sentence,paragraph,sectionorpart

thereofdirectlyinvolvedinthe

controversyinwhichsuchjudgme ntshallhavebeenrendered.



P. Miscellaneous



(1) ThissectionisexpresslyadoptedpursuanttotherelevantsectionsoftheNewYorkStateTown

LawandtheNewYorkStateMunicipal HomeRuleLaw.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 84 



(2) AllotherprovisionsoftheCodeoftheTownofChathamshallremaininfullforceandeffect.



(3) ThissectionshallbeeffectiveimmediatelyuponfilingwiththeSecretaryofState.



Q. Fees.Feesforapplicationsandreviewsprovidedforbythissectionshallbeinthe

amountor

amountsasestablishedbytheTownBo ardfromtimetotime.SaidfeesshallbepostedintheTown

HallontheofficialScheduleofFeesfortheTownofChatham.



§180‐25.EnvironmentalProtectionOverlay.

A. Purpose.Thepurposeoftheenvironmentalprotectionoverlaydistrictsestablishedinthisarticleis

toprovidespecialcontrolsoverlanddevelopmentlocatedinsensitiveenvironmentalareaswithin

theTownofChatham.Thesedistrictsandtheregulationsassociatedwithinthemaredesignedto

preserveandprotectuniqueenvironmentalfeatureswithinthe

Townasestablishedintheadopted

TownofChathamComprehensivePlan.

B. OverlayDistrictsEstablished.Twoenvironmentalprotectionoverlaydistrictsareherebyestablished. 

Theregulationscontained ineachenvironmentalprotectionoverlaydistrict(EPO)arenotintended

tobesubstitutedforothergeneralzoningdistrictprovisionsbutshallbesuperimposedover

the

basezoningdistrictprovisionsandshouldbeconsideredasadditionalrequire mentstobemetby

theapplicantordeveloper,priortoprojectapproval.Inordertoaddressthegoals,setforthinthe

TownofChatham’sComprehensivePlan,thefollowingenvironmentalprotectionoverlaydistricts

areherebyestablished:

 EPO‐1

EnvironmentalProtectionOverlay–SteepSlopes

 EPO‐2 EnvironmentalProtectionOverlay–ScenicViews/RidgeLines



C. ProceduresforReviewofaProjectWithinanEnvironmentalOverlayDistrict.



(1) Applicability.Allproposedsinglefamily,two ‐familyandmulti‐familyresidentialandall

commercialdevelopmentshallmeetallEPOrequirementsasper

thisZoningLawexceptforthe

following.Agriculturalusesorstructuresforwhichamodifiedsiteapprovalisrequiredshallalso

meetEPO‐1andEPO‐2requirements,asapplicable.ThefollowingusesareexemptfromEPO

requirements:



(a) Customaryresidentialaccessoryuses(b) Farmandresidentialponds.

repairormaintenanceofexistingstructuresoruses;

(d) Temporaryroadsidestandssmallerthan100squarefeet;

(e) Interioralterationsthatdonotsubstantiallychangethenatureoruseofanexisting

commercialstructure;

(f) Anychangeinusewhichdoesnotrequiretheissuanceofacertificateofoccupancy

pursuant

totheNewYorkStateBuildingandFireCode;

(g) Residentialgardenuses

(h) Garageandlawnsales;



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 85 

(i) Usesandstructureswhichhavealreadylawfullyinitiatedconstru ctionpriortothe

enactmentofthislocallaw.



(2) AllEPOrequirementsareinadditiontoanybasedistrict,siteplanorspecialusepermit

requirementsandconditions.



(3) Whenaproposeduserequiressiteplanreviewand/orspecial

usepermitapproval,thePlanning

BoardshallintegrateallEPOrequirementsandproceduresintothoseprocesses.Wherea

proposeduseisapermitteduseanddoesnotrequiresiteplanorspecialuseapprovals,no

buildingpermitshallbeis sueduntilthePlanningBoardapprovesthatEPOdev elopmentandthe

CEO

hasissuedanEPODevelopmentPermit.



(4) SevenpapercopiesandoneelectroniccopyinpdfformatofanapplicationforanEPO

developmentapprovalforaprojectwithinanenvironmentaloverlaydistrictshallbemadein

writingtotheTownPlanningBoard.Suchanapplicationshallbemadeby

thepropertyowneror

his/heragentandshallbeaccompaniedbyany materialsorinformation,includingbutnot

limitedtoascaledsiteplanpreparedandcertifiedbyalicensedengineerorlandsurveyorthat

containsthefollowing minimuminformation:



(a) Alocationplanandboundarylinesurveyofthe

property.

(b) Thelocationofallenvironmentalprotectionoverlaydistrictboundaries,landspreserved

withaconservationeasement,orTown,countyorstateparklandorothersimilarareas

withinand/oradjacenttotheproperty,asdefinedbythisarticle.

sewers,water

andstormdrainsonthepropertyorwithin200feetoftheproposedworksite.

(d) Thelocationofallexistingandproposedimpervioussurfaces,suchasdriveways,sidewalks,

etc.,onthepropertyorwithin200feetoftheproposedworksite.

(e) Existingandproposedcontourlevelsat

intervalsoffivefeetfortheproperty,unlesssuch

propertyislocatedwithintheEPO‐2Districtwherecontourlevelsshallberequiredat

intervalsoftwofeet.

(f) Thetypeandlocationofallexistinglandcoverincluding,butnotlimitedtoactive

agriculturalfields,forestedareas,andother

undevelopedlands.Notewhethertrees

locatedonthepropertyarematureorhavesixinchesormorewithinand/oradjacenttothe

property.

(g) Thelocationofallstreams,waterbodies,orexistingandproposeddrainageways,swales,

etc.,withinand/oradjacenttotheproperty.

(h) EachapplicationforEPOdevelopment

approvalshallbeaccompaniedbyanapplicationfee

asmaybesetbytheTownBoard.Thisfeeshallbeinadditiontoanyotherfeerequiredfor

thedevelopmentunderthischapter.

D. Applicationreview;publichearing;issuanceordenialofpermit.



(1) TheBuildingDepartmentshallrefera

completedTownofChathamdevelopmentapplicationto

theTownPlanningBoard.ThePlanningBoardshallconductapublichearingontheapplication.

Thepublichearingshallbeconductedwithin62calendardaysofthereceiptofthecompleted

TownofChathamapplicationandshallbeadvertisedintheofficialnewspaper

oftheTownat

leastfivecalendardaysbeforethepublichearingandpostedontownwebsite.Thetimeframe



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 86 

maybeextendedbymutualdecisionofboththePlanningBoardandtheapplicant.ThePlanning

Boardshalldirecttheapplicanttoadditionallyprovidenoticeofthepublichearinganddata

regardingthesubstanceoftheapplicationtothecurrentownersofallpropertyadjacentto,

directlyopposite,orwithin

500’oftheapplicant'sproperty.Noticeshallbemailed,return

receiptrequested,atleast10calendardayspriortothehearing.Theapplicantissolely

responsibleforthepublicationandmailingofthenotice.TheapplicantandthePlanningBoard

shallreviewtheownermailinglistpriortodistribution.



(2)

Priortomakingafinaldecision,thePlanningBoardmayalsorequestareportfromtheTown

Engineerorotherappropriatedepartmentoragencyinactingonsuchpermitapplication.



(3) FollowingtherequiredpublichearingandcompletionofallSEQRrequirementsandtimeframes 

thePlanningBoard,shallissuea

writtendeterminationtoapprove,deny,orapprovewith

conditionstheEPOdevelopment,subjecttothestandards,criteriaandotherregulations

containedinthisarticlewithin62days.Thistimeframemaybeextendedbymutualagreement

byboththePlanningBoardandtheapplicant.



(4) Anydevelopmentpermitissuedby

thePlanningBoardinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofthis

articlemaybeissuedwithreasonableconditions.Suchconditionsshallbemadespecificallyto

meetthegoalsoftheEPOandtoensurethepreservationandprotectionofenvironmentall y 

sensitiveareas.Everypermitissuedpursuanttothisarticleshallalsocontain

thefollowing

conditions:



(a) TheCEO/,TownEngineerand/orotherappropriateTownofficialshallhavetherightto

inspecttheprojectfromtimetotime.

(b) ThepermitholdershallnotifytheCEO/InspectororotherappropriateTownofficialofthe

dateonwhichprojectconstructionistobegin,at

leastfivedaysinadvanceofsuchdate.

undertakingoftheactivi tiesauthorizedbythepermi t.

(d) TheCEO/shallhavetheauthoritytoissueastopworkorderorremedyanyviolationofthe

permitconditionsasper§180‐66.



E. Conflict.Incaseofanyconflictbetweentheprovisionsofsection180‐26or180‐27,the

requirementsoftheunderlyingdistrict,othersectionsofthischapter,theTownRoadSpecifications,

orChapter170,SubdivisionofLand,thissectionshallcontrol.



Approvalconditions.AnyconditionofapprovalnecessarytomeetanyEPOregulationsshallbe

clearlynotedonthefinalplatorplanandfiledwiththeColumbiaCountyClerk.Alldeedsofnew

residentialunitswithintheEPO‐2Districtshallcontainreferencestotheridgelinedesign

requirements,enumeratedin

180‐27shallbeplacedonthesubdivisionplatasaconditionof

approval.



G. DevelopmentPermitRequired.PlanningBoardapprovalfordevelopmentinanyEPOOverlayshall

berequiredpriortotheissuanceofabuildingpermitforusessubj ecttotheEPOprovisions.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 87 

§180‐26.EPO‐1–SteepSlopeProtectionOverlay



A. Purposes.ThepurposeofthisArticleistoprovideforthereasonableuseofsteepslopeswhile

ensuringdevelopmentwillnotinducesoilerosion,requireexcessivegrading,increaseslope

instability,orcreatesewagedisposalproblemsandshallbeinconformancewiththefollowing 

objectives:



(1) Guardagainstpropertydamage

andpersonalinjury,andminimizethepotentialforerosion,

slopefailure,streamsiltation,increasedrunoff,floodingandcontaminationofsurfacewaters

causedbytheadverseeffectsofsitepreparationandconstructiononsteepslopes.



(2) Conserveexistingwoodlandsforairandwaterqualitybenefits,toprovidehabitatforwildlife,

and

tomaintaintheecologicalbalanceamongthenaturalsystemsonsteepslopeareas.



(3) Permitlandusesbyrightthatarecompatiblewithprotectionofsteepslopeareasand

encouragetheuseofsteepslopeareasforopenspaceandconservationuses.



(4) Requiredevelopmenttoavoidsteepslope

areaswhereverpossible,andrequirealllanduse,

clearing,grading,andconstructiontosatisfydevelopmentstandards.



(5) Protectadjoiningpropertiesfromharmfulconsequencesofdevelopmentpermittedunder

theserequirements.



(6) Maintainruralroadsservingtheselocations.



B. EPO‐1ApplicationRequirements.ApplicationsforadevelopmentpermitwithintheEPO‐

1shall

include:



(1) AplanpreparedandstampedbyaLicensedProfessionalEngineerorSurveyorwhichaccurately

locatestheproposedusewithrespecttotheEPO‐1boundariesandexistingdevelopment

within200feetoftheproposeduse,togetherwithallpertinentinformationdescribingthe

parcel,andatopographical

surveywithcontourelevationsatnogreaterthan5‐footintervals.



(2) Aplanofproposeddevelopmentoruseofthesite,conforming tothepreliminaryplanofthe

subdivision,siteplanorspecialuserequirements,withcontoursshownat2‐footintervals,

wherefeasible,throughoutthesteepslopeareas

proposedfordevelopmentoruse.Contours

shallbeaccuratelydrawnfromon‐sitesurveyoraerialphotographicsources.



(3) Proposedmodificationstotheexistingtopographyandvegetativecover,aswellasthemeans

ofaccommodatingstormwaterrunoff.



(4) Documentationofanyadditionalengineeringand/orconservationtechniquesdesignedto

alleviateenvironmental

problemscreatedbytheproposedactivities.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 88 

(5) Specificationsofbuildingmaterialsandconstructionincludingfilling,grading,materialsstorage,

watersupply,andsewagedisposalfacilities.



(6) Anerosionandsedimentcontrolplan,andastormwaterpollutionpreventionplanshallbe

preparedifthedisturbanceisequaltoorgreaterthan1acre,inaccordancewiththeNew

York

StateDepartmentofEnvironmentalConservationSPDESGeneralPermitforStormwater

DischargesfromConstructionActivities(PermitNo.GP‐0‐15‐002).Thefollowingtechnical

standardsshallalsobeusedinthedesignandinstallationofallerosion,sedimentcontroland

stormwaterpracticesdesignedorinstalledunderthischapter:



(a) New

YorkStandardsandSpecificationsforErosionandSedimentControl(EmpireState

ChapteroftheSoilandWaterConservationSociety),orthemostcurrentversionorits

successor(alsoreferredtoasthe"ErosionControlManual").

(b) NewYorkStateStormwaterDesignManual,latestedition(NewYorkStateDepartmentof

Environmental

Conservation),orthemostcurrentversionoritssuccessor.

Service),orthemostcurrentversionoritssuccessor.

(d) SoilSurveyofColumbiaCounty,NewYork(USDANaturalResourceandConservation

Service),orthemostcurrentversionoritssuccessor.



(e) NewYorkStateDepartmentofEnvironmentalConservationSPDESGeneralPermitfor

StormwaterDischargesfromConstructionActivityPermitNo.GP‐0‐15‐002,orasamended

orrevised,orthemostcurrentversionoritssuccessor.



(7) Thelocationofanyexistingorplannedroad.



(8) WrittenconfirmationfromtheChiefofthelocalfiredepartmentthattheDepart menthas

reviewedemergencyaccesstotheareatobedevelopedandstatesthatemergencyaccessis

satisfactorytoprovideadequatefireprotectionandprotectiontohumanhealth.



C. GeneralProvisions



(1) TheSteepSlopeOverlayDistrictshallbeanoverlay

onallzoningdistricts.Foranylotorportion

thereoflyingwithintheSteepSlopeOverlayDistrict,theregulationsoftheoverlaydistrictshall

beinadditiontoanyregulationsoftheunderlyingdistrict.



(2) Anychangestotheunderlyingzoningofanylotoranypartthereofwhichis

locatedintheS teep

SlopeConservationDistrictshallhavenoeffectontheoverlyingSteepSlopeConservation

District.



(3) Alluses,activitiesanddevelopmentoccurringwithintheSteepSlopeConservationDistrictshall

beundertakenonlyinstrictcompliancewiththeprovisionsofthisZoningLaw,withallfederal

andstate

laws,andwithallotherapplicableTownshipcodesandordinances.



(4) Allbuildinglotstobecreatedshallcontainatleast2acresofareawithslopeslessthan25%.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 89 

(5) DisturbanceLimits.Baseduponsteepslopecategory,thefollowingdisturbancelimitsonany

givenlotshallbethemaximumareaofsuchslopesthatmayberegradedand/orstrippedof

vegetation:



SteepSlopeCategory



DisturbanceLimit

Slopesatleast15%butlessthan20% 25% 

Slopesatleast20%butlessthan25% 20% 

Slopesatleast25%butlessthan30% 10% 

Slopes30%orgreater 5% 



(6) Gradingorearthmovingonallsteepslopeareasshallnotresultinearthcutsorfillswhose

highestverticaldimensionsexceed10feet,exceptwherenoreasonablealternativesexistfor

constructionofpublicroads,drainagestructures,andotherpublicimprovements,inwhichcase

suchverticaldimensionsshallnotexceed

20feet.Finishedslopesofallcutsandfillsshallnot

exceedaratioofthreefeetinruntoonefootinelevation(3:1),unlesstheapplicantcan

demonstratethatsteeperslopescanbestabilizedandmaintainedadequately.Thelandscap e

shallbepreservedinitsnaturalstateinsofaraspracticable.



(7) TheapplicantfordevelopmentonlandwithintheEPO‐1shallprovideevidencethat:



(a) Proposedbuildingsandstructuresareofsoundengineeringdesignandthatfootingsare

designedtoextendtostablesoiland/orrock.

(b) Proposedroads,drivesandparkingareasaredesignedsothatlandclearingand/orgrading

willnotcauseacceleratederosion.Bothverticalandhorizontalalignmentofsuchfacilities

shallbesodesignedthathazardousconditionsarenotcreated.

appropriatestormwatermanagementfacilitieswillbeconstructed asnecessary.

(d) Proposednon‐agriculturaldisplacementofwillnotcauseerosionorotherunstable

conditions.Theapplicantshall

provideanerosionandsedimentcontrolplanandsupporting

evidence.

(e) Proposedon‐lotsewagedisposalfacilitiesshallbeproperlydesignedandconstructedin

conformitywithapplicableregulations.



(8) DevelopmentRegulationsforMajorSubdivisionshavinglandswithintheEPO1.

(a) EachparceloflandlocatedintheEPO‐1district,

havingmorethan25%oftheparcelin

steep

slopesandproposedforresidentialuseshallbesubdividedconsistentwiththefollowing

requirements:



(1) ConservationSubdivision.Allmajorsubdivisionsthathavemorethan25%ofitsparcel

acreage,priortosubdivision,withintheEPO‐1shallbedesignedasa

conservation



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 90 

subdivisionpursuanttoChapter135andshalllocateallthesteepslopesonthatparcel

withintherequiredprimaryopenspacetobepreserved.

(2) YieldPlan.Themaximumnumberofdwellingunitstobepermittedontheparcelshall

bebaseduponthestandardsforsubdivisionwithintheunderlying 

zoningdistrict,as

demonstratedbyanactualyieldplan.Theyieldplanmustidentifythesite'sprimaryand

secondaryresources,asidentifiedaspartofthenaturalfeaturesplan,anddemonstrate

thattheprimaryresourcescouldbesuccessfullyabsorbedinthedevelopmentwithout

disturbance.Thenumberofunitsshownonthe

yieldplanwillbethemaximumnumber

ofunitsthatmaybepermittedintheeligiblereceivingareas.

(3) Themaximumimperviousgroundcover(perlot)onslopes >15%shallbe20%.

(4) ThePlanningBoardshallevaluateallpotentialimpactsofamajorsubdivisiononroads

andshallminimize

impactstoallroads,especiallyto wnruralroadsbyminimizinggrade

changes,placementofnewculverts,paving,removalofvegetationorotheractivities

thatwouldaltertheruralroadcharacterorleadtochangedorincreasedmaintenance

needsonsuchroad.



(9) Anyfillplacedonthelotshallbe

properlystabilizedand,whenfoundnecessarydepending

uponexistingslopesandsoiltypes,supportedbyretainingwallsorotherappropriatestructures

asapprovedbytheTownEngineer.



(10) Allretainingwallsrequireacertificationbyaprofessionalengineerthatthewallwas

constructedinaccordancewithapprovedplansandapplicable

buildingcodes.



(11) Anydisturbanceofsteepslopesshallbecompletedwithinoneconstructionseason,and

disturbedareasshallnotbeleftbareandexposedduringthewinterandspringthawperiods.

Permanentvegetativecovershallbeplantedwithinthreedaysaftercompletionofgrading.



(12) Thealignmentofroads

anddrivewaysshallfollowthenaturaltopography,minimizeregrading

andcomplywithdesignstandardspursuanttotheTownofChathamSubdivision,180‐44,and

anyhighwaystandards.



(13) Themaximumgradeofaroadordrivewayshallnotexceedeightpercent(8%).



D. ProhibitedUsesandDevelopmentonSlopes

Of15%ButLessThan25%.Thefollowingusesare

specificallyprohibitedonslopesof15%butlessthan25%:



(1) Removaloftopsoilexceptwhenrelatedtoanapprovedspecialuseorsubdivision.



(2) Solidwastedisposal,recyclinguses,junkyards,orotheroutdoorstorageuses.





E. Special

UseStandardsandCriteria.Inconsideringaspecialuse application,thePlanningBoardshall

considereachofthefollowing:

(1) Relationshipoftheproposedusetotheobjectivessetforthinthislocallaw.



(2) Adverseeffectsonabuttingproperties.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 91 



(3) Adverseeffectsonroads.



(4) Theneedforawoodlandmanagementplanonwoodedsteepslopeareas.



(5) Proposedroads,drivewaysandparkingareasaredesignedsothatlandclearingand/orgrading

willnotcauseacceleratederosion.Bothverticalandhorizontalalignmentforsuchfacilitiesshall

beso

designedthathazardousconditionsarenotcreated.



(6) Alternativeplacementsonnon‐steepslopeareaswerecarefullyevaluatedforstructures,

includingbuildings,retainingwalls,swimmingpools,roads,accessdriveways,parkingfacilities

andotherdevelopment,andcanbeshowntobeinappropriateorinfeasibletothesatisfaction

of(Municipality).



(7)

Proposedon‐lotsewagedisposalfacilitiesareproperlydesignedandconstructedinconformity

withapplicableregulations.



(8) Proposednon‐agriculturaldisplacemen tofsoilisforpurposesconsistentwiththeintentofthis

Articleandwillbeexecutedinamannerthatwillnotcauseerosionorotherunstable

conditions.The

applicantshallprovideanerosionandsedimentcontrolplanandsupporting

evidence.

Surfacerunoffofwaterwillnotcreateunstableconditions,includingerosion,andappropriate

stormwatermanagementfacilitieswillbeconstructedasnecessary.



(9) Grading,FillingandErosionandSedimentationBestManagementPractices.



F. ThePlanningBoardmayrequireoneormoreofthefollowingtobeincorporatedintositeplansand

developmentapprovalsintheEPO‐1:

(1) Alltopsoiltobestrippedfromtheareabeingdevelopedshallbestockpilednotlessthan200 

feetfromanybodyofsurfacewaterandshallbeimmediatelyseededwithrye

grassmixture

withaquickgerminationtime.



(2) Allfillslopesshallbeimmediatelystabilizedusingappropriatetechniqueswhichmeetthedesign

criteriadescribedintheNewYorkStandardsandSpecificationsforErosionandSediment

Control.



(3) Erosionandsedimentcontrolmeasures,includingbutnotlimitedtosiltfencing,sediment

traps

andcheckdams,shallalsobeemployedwherenecess ary forsuppl ementaryerosioncontrol

measures.



(4) Allcutslopesandembankmentfillsaretobeimmediatelylaidbackandstabilizedusing

appropriatetechniqueswhichmeetthedesigncriter iadescribedintheNewYorkStandardsand

SpecificationsforErosionandSediment

Control,whichmayincludethefollowing:



(a) Gradetofinishedslopes.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 92 

(b) Scarified. 

(d) Seededwithperennial rye grass.Seedshallbeappliedattherateofnotlessthanfive

poundsper1,000squarefeet.

(e) Mulchedwithnotlessthanoneinchandnotmorethanthree

inchesofstraw(twotonsper

acre)andanchoredinasuitablemanner.



(5) Temporaryon‐sitesedimentationbasinsfortheimmediatecontroloferosionandsediment

transportaretobeprovidedwhenandwhererequiredorordered.Thelength,widthanddepth

ofsuchbasinsaretobedetermined

inthefieldinaccordancewiththeNewYorkStandardsand

SpecificationsforErosionandSedimentControlorTownEngineer.



(a) Allerosioncontrolstructuresaretobemaintainedinproperfunctioningorderandaretobe

replacedorrepairedasnecessary.

(b) Constructionequipmentshallnotunnecessarilycrosslive

streamsexceptbymeansof

bridgesandculvertsorotherapprovedmethods.

(d) Onlythesmallestareaoflandpracticableshouldbeexposedatanyone‐timeduring

development.Erosioncontrolrequirementsshallincludesurfacestabilizationmeasures

appliedassoonas

practicableinportionsofthesitewhereconstructionactivitieshave

temporarilyorpermanentlyceased,butinnocasemorethansevendaysafterthe

constructionactivityinthatportion ofthesitehastemporarilyorpermanentlyceased.From

November1throughMarch31,anydisturbedareamustbestabilizedusing

aheavymulch

layer,arollederosioncontrolproductoranothermethodthatdoesnotrequireseed

germinationtocontrolerosion.

(e) Thepermanentfinalvegetationandstructuresshallbeinstalledassoonaspracticalandas

maybedirectedbytheTownEngineer.

(f) Allerosioncontrolmeasuresemployedduring

constructionshallcomplywiththestandards

foundinNewYorkStandardsandSpecificationsforErosionandSedimentControl,latest

edition.

(g) Phasingshallberequiredonallsitesdisturbinggreaterthanoneacrewith,thesizeofeach

phasetobeestablishedbyeitherthePlanningBoardortheCEO/CEO

dependingonwhat

reviewprocesstheprojectrequires.



(6) Mitigationofimpactsonruralroads.



G.Maintenanceafterconstruction.Theowneroroperatorofanypermanentstormwatermanagement

practicesinstalledinaccordancewiththis chap tershalloperateandmaintainthestormwater

managementpracticestoachievethegoalsofthischapter.

Properoperationandmaintenancealso

include,ataminimum,thefollowing:

(1) Apreventive/correctivemaintenanceprogramforallcriticalfacilitiesandsystemsoftreatment

andcontrol(orrelatedappurtenances)whichareinstalledorusedbytheowneroroperatorto

achievethegoalsofthischapter.



(2) Writtenproceduresfor

operationandmaintenanceandfortrainingnewmaintenance

personnel.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 93 



H. Maintenanceagreements.Asaconditionoftheapprovalofalanddevelopmentpermit,the

CEO/CEOmayrequirethatamaintenanceagreementforthefutureoperationandmaintenanceof

oneormoreofthestormwatermanagementpracticesproposedforthesite,inaformacceptableto

theTownAttorneyand

bindingonallsubsequentlandowners,beexecutedandrecordedinthe

officeoftheCountyClerkasadeedrestrictionontheproperty.Theagreementshallensurethatany

stormwatermanagementfacilityisaccessibleandmaintainedinproperworkingconditiontomeet

designstandardsandanyotherprovisionsestablishedby

thischapter



I. Contractorcertification.Acopyofallnoticesofintentandallcontractor’scertifications,required

pursuanttotheNewYorkStateGeneralPermitforStormwaterDischargesfromConstruction

ActivityPermit,asamendedorrevised,foralllanddisturbances,developmentorredevelopment

locatedwithintheTownofChathamshall

alsobefiledwiththeCEO/andtheChathamPlanning

Board,tobeplacedintheapplicant'sfile.



§180‐27.EPO‐2‐ScenicViews/Ridgelines



ThelocationsandboundariesoftheEPO‐2districtisshownonthemapentitled“Environmental

ProtectionOverlay2”.ThecriteriaofinclusionoflandswithintheEPO‐2includepresenceofaridgeline,

addinga40‐footchangeinelevationbufferaroundtheridgelinewithinaquarterofa

mileofsuch

ridgeline,andvisiblefromapublicroad,



Theboundariesofthisdistrictarebasedonavailabletopographicdataandarenotbasedonland

surveys.Fieldinvestigationsand/orotherenvironmentalanalysesmayberequiredinorderto

determinewhetherornotaparticularpieceofpropertyis

includedwithintheoverlaydistricts.Any

applicantthatbelievesthattheproposedprojectsiteorbuildingenvelopeisnotactuallywithinthe

EPO‐2mayprovidetothePlanningBoard,attheapplicant’sexpense,atopographicalsurveybya

licensedprofessionalthatsubstantiatestheapplicant’sposition.IfthePlanningBoardagrees

withthe

applicant,itmayrulethattherequirementsofthissub‐sectiondonotapplytotheprojectbecauseitis

notlocatedintheEPO‐2.



A. Applicability.

(1) Landsubdivision,specialusepermit,andsiteplanapproval.Theprovisionsofthissectionshall

applytoallapplications

forlandusedevelopmentincludingsubdivision,specialusepermits,site

plan approval, zoning variances, zoning amendments, building permits for new residential

dwellings,dwellingadditionsexceeding300squarefeet,andaccessorystructuresexceeding300

square feet, where such activity or development is located within the mapped EPO‐2 District.

However, the

EPO‐2 District requirements shall not be used to lessen the underlying zoning

district density. Except as provided herein, no land  shall be developed, and no building or

structure erected, expanded, or developed unless the Planning Board upon granting such

approvalfinds that the development proposed will beconsistent with  the

re quirementsof the

EPO‐2District.ThePlanningBoardisherebyauthorizedtoimposereasonableconditions,which

itdeemsnecessaryinordertomakesuchafinding.Theprovisionsoftheunderlyingzoningdistrict

shallremainineffectexceptwhereotherwisespecifiedherein.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 94 



(2) Exemptions.ThefollowinglandusesareexemptfromcompliancewiththeEPO‐2requirements:



(a) Agricultural structures, including those that require a Modified Site Plan Review, that are

locatedonafarmoperationareexemptfromallEPO‐2requirements.

(b) Telecommunication towersproposed withinthe EPO‐2

shallbeallowedonly withintheT1,

T2orT3districts.Whereallowed,allrequirements ofZoningLaw Section180‐38shallbemet,

andnegativeimpactstothevisualcharacteroftheEPO‐2bothwithintheTdistrictandwithin

theviewshedoutsidetheTdistrictshallbemitigated.

Thefollowingactivitiesareexemptfrom

theEPO‐2requirements,subjecttoadeterminationbytheTownCEO/CEOthatsuchactivities

involvenecessarynormalmaintenanceandupkeepofpropertyand/orinvolvepublichealth,

safetyoremergencysituations:



(1) Lawncareandmaintenanc e.

(2) Gardeni ngactivities.

(3) Treeandshrubcare

andmaintenance.

(4) Removalofdeadordeterioratingvegetation.

(5) Removalofstructures.

(6) Repairandmaintenanceofstructures.

(7) Repairandmaintenanceoffaultyordeterioratingsewagefacilitiesorutilitylines.

(8) Reconstructionofstructuresdamagedbyanaturaldisaster.

(9) Publichealthactivities,ordersandregulationsofthe

NewYorkStateDepartmentof

Health,ColumbiaCountyDepartmentofHealthorotheragenciesundertakesin

compliancewith§24‐0701,Subdivision5,oftheNewYorkStateEnvironmental

ConservationLaw,asamendedorchanged.

(10) Anyactualorongoingemergencyactivitywhichisimmediatelynecessaryforthe

protectionandpreservation

oflife,propertyornaturalresourcevalues.



B. DevelopmentStandards.AlldevelopmentwithintheEPO‐2Districtshallcomplywiththedesign

standardsandprinciplesprovidedinthissub‐section.Therequirementsareintendedtoensurethat

futuredevelopmentwithintheEPO‐2createsnomorethanaminimalimpact

ontheDistrictand

surroundingarea,makespreservationofthescenicvaluesprovidedbyridgelinesintheTownof

Chathamacentralfocusofanyfuturedevelopmentinthoselocations,requiresthatnew

developmentwheretheEPO‐2andhamletsoverlapfollowtraditionalsettlementpatterns,and

providesgeneralsitingprinciples 

tohelplandownersandthePlanningBoardplanprojectsthatfit

intothescenicandruralcountrysidefoundinthehigherelevationsoftheTown.



(1) Morespecifically, thefollowingstandardsaddress sitedesignandarchitecturaldesignintheEPO‐

2:



(a) Placementofstructures.Structuresshallbesitedat

thelowestelevationpossiblesothatthe

rooflinedoesnot  extendabovetheridgelinewhenvi ewed frompublicroadsandlocations

accessible to the public. Within the EPO‐2, building lots, building sites, including areas of

clearedvegetation,shallbeclearlydesignatedontheapplicablesubdivisionplatand/orsite

plan

inrelationtotheEPO‐2boundary.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 95 

(b) Restrictionsonheight.WithintheEPO‐2,noprincipaloraccessorystructurewithabuilding

heightofgreaterthan35feetshallbeconstructe d.

obstructingpublicviewsofhighlyvisiblelandsidentifiedwithin

theEPO‐2District.Thismay

beaccomplishedeitherbypositioningbuildingsandareasofdisturbancebelowaridgelineor

bypositioningbuildingsandareasofdisturbance ataridgelinesothattheelevationofthe

rooflineisnogreaterthantheelevationofthenaturaltreeline.Buildingsandlots

shallbe

laidouttoreducethevisualimpactofthestructures.Thisshallnotbeinterpretedtomean

thatthebuildingsshouldnotbeseen,onlythattheyshouldnotprotrudeabovethetreesor

hilltops.Buildings shallbedesigned to conformtothecontoursofthe site, and

driveways

shall be compatible with the slopes and building design.No building will be allowed on

exposedridgesorrockoutcroppings.Publicviewsshallbeconsi deredtobefromanypublic

road,park,orpublicopen space.Visibilityshallbemeasuredusingacondi tionofnoleaves

ontrees.

(d) The

naturalelevations andvegetativecoverofridgelinesshallbedisturbedonlyifthecrest

of a ridge and the tree line  at the ridge remains unobstructed.Grading, cut and fill, and

retainingwallsshouldbeminimizedforridgeline developmentbyusinginnovativebuilding

techniqueswhichreflectthenaturaltopographyof

thesite.Whencutandfillisunavoidable,

itshouldbestabilizedbyroundingandlandscapin g.However,undernocircumstancesshall

more than 100 feet along the ridgeline, to a width of 100 feet generally centered on the

ridgeline,bedisturbed.

(e) Landscaping. As  a condition of approval of any major

 subdivision, the area around each

principal and accessory structure shall include at least one tree ofaspecies with a matur e

heightofatleast35feetforeach2,500squarefeetoflotorparcelarea;provided,however,

thatthisrequirementshallnotrequireanysingle‐family residentiallot

tocontainmorethan

eighttreesunlessgrowingnaturallyonthesite.Treesinstalledtomeet the requirementsof 

thissubsectionarepreferablytobeofnativeconiferous  species,shallbeaminimumofsix

feettallwhenplanted,andshallbeplantedbeforeacertificateofoccupancyisissuedfor

the

principal structure, or if that is not possible due to planting season or weather conditions,

thenwithinonemonthoftheplantingseasonforthespecies.Landscapingsurvivabilitymust

also be addressed and assured. Any existing trees  that meet the height requirement are 

counted towards satisfaction of the tree

requirements, regardless of whether they are

coniferousordeciduous.



(1)Aspartofamajorsubdivisionapplication,theapplicantsubmittingsuchplanmayrequest

approval of a landscape plan in which the vegetation requirements for certain lots or

tracts may be increased, decreased or deleted, to reflect the degree of

visibility of

structures located in various portions of the subdivision or site. Additionally, such

applicantmayrequestalternativeplacementoflandscapingoncertainlotsandtractsif

suchplacementprovidesadequatemitigationofthevisualimpactoftherooflineofthe 

principal structure. Landscaping required by this section shall be credited

 against the

landscapingrequirementsimposedbyanyothersectionofthischapter.



(f) Tree cutting. All timber harvesting in  the EPO‐2 shall comply with 180‐45 (Regulation of

Timbering) and the Timber Harvesting Guidelines for New York and Best Management



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 96 

Practices,aspromulgatedbytheNewYorkStateDepartmentofEnvironmentalConservation

(DEC)andavailablefromtheTown'sPlanningDepartment.

(g) Thissectionisnotintendedtolimitforestmanagementinridgelineareaswhenpracticedin

accordance with environmentally  sound and sustainable silvicultural principles. Forest

management constitutes a beneficialand

desirable use of the Town's forest resourcesand

makesvitalcontributionstotheeconomy,environmentandaestheticfeaturesofChatham.

ThetraditionofusingChatham'sforestresourcesfortheproductionofforestproductsand

related commercial activities, for recreation, and for sustenance of the Town's wildlife is

essentialtoafavorable

qualityoflife.

(h) Lighting.ExteriorlightingintheEPO‐2Districtshallbecontrolledinbothheightandintensity

and under no circumstances shall the  light level at any lot line exceed 0.2 foot‐candle,

measuredatgroundlevel.Floodlightsshallnotbeusedtoshinelightdirectlyon

anyportion

of a principal or accessory structure facade (except for the temporary lighting), and all

outdoor light sources mounted on poles or buildings or trees to illuminate driveways,

sidewalks,walkways,parkinglots,orotheroutdoorareasshallusefullyshieldedlightfixtures

tolighttheground.Forpurposesofthis

section,a"fullcutofflightfixture"isoneinwhichno

morethan2.5%ofthetotaloutputisemittedat90°fromtheverticalpoleorbuildingwallon

whichit ismounted.Allsuchfixturesshallbeinstalledorshieldedsothatpartofthelightbulb

or

lightsourceisnotvisiblebeyondthepropertyboundaries.

(i) Utilities.Allutilityhousingsshallbesafelyscreenedbynativeplantspeciesandlocatedsoas

tominimizetheirvisualimpact.Allelectric,telephone,television,andother communication

lines,both  mainandservice connections,servicing newdevelopment,shallbeprovidedby



underground wiring within easements of dedicated public street rights‐of‐way, installed in

accordance with the prevailing standards and practices of the utility or other companies

providingsuchservices.Allserviceentrancelinestothestructure(s)shallbeburied.

(j) DrivewaysandParking.Drivewaysshallbegovernedby therequirements

ofChapter164of

theTownCodeoftheTownofChatham(RoadSpecifications).IfrequirementsfromChapter

164 are inconsistent with protecting the ridgeline and scenic view goals  of the Town, the

requirements of this Chapter shall control.Parking lots for nonresidential  and multifamily

residentialusesshallbeprovidedwith

screenedparki nglocatedwhollyatthesideand/orrear

ofthestructures,providedsuchanarrangementdoesnotcreateasignificantvisualeffect.If

parking is provided at the side of structures, at least a ten‐foot‐wide landscaped area

(exclusiveofthatrequiredforsidewalksorutility easements)shall 

beprovidedbetweenthe

roadright‐of‐wayandtheparkinglot,tobeplantedwithshadeorornamentaltreesandat

leastathree‐foot‐highevergreenhedge,wallorfence.Inaddition,atleastonetreeandthree

shrubs shall be provided for each eight parking spaces in interior

 areas of the parking lot,

whethersuchlotisprovidedatthesideorrearofstructures.

(k) Allmajorsubdivision,ordevelopmentonparcelsgreaterthan50acresinsizeandforwhich

theapplicantseekssubdivisionofsuchparcelintomorethanthreeparcels,shallbedesigned

with

a Conservation Subdivision design pursuant to Chapter 135 of the Town of Chatham

Code.

(l) Clearingofexistingvegetationattheedgeoftheroadshallbereviewedandapprovedbythe

Planning Board. Clearing shall be minimized as necessary to create road and driveway

entranceswithadequatesightdistance,and

atotherlocationsontheparceltomaximizeuse

ofexistingvegetationasscreening.Curv eddrivewaysshallbeusedtoincreasethescreening

ofbuildings.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 97 

(m) Dimensional regulations.Thefollowingdimensional regulationsshallapplytodevelopment

withintheEPO‐2District:

(1) No building footprint shall exceed 7,500 square feet unless the structure is to be used

exclusivelyforagriculturalpurposes.

(2) The maximum allowable impervious surface cove rage on any parcel proposed for

subdivisionor

developmentshallbe15%.Toimplementthisrequirement,restrictionson

impervious surface coverage for individual subdivided lots shall be shown on any

subdivisionplat.

(3) Maximumbuildingheightrequirementsshallapplytothepeakof therooflineexceptfor 

cupolas or turrets as well  as silos or barns when used in

 conjunction with agricultural

operations,whichmayexceedthemaximumbuildingheight.



(n) Preventionofsoilerosion.Nositeplanorsubdivisionplatshallbeapprovedunlessitincludes

soil erosion and sediment control measures, prepared in accordance with the standard s

described in manuals in common usage, such as the New

 York State Department of

Environmental Conservation's Reducing the Impacts of Stormwater Runoff from New

Development or the New York State Soil and Water Conservation Committee's New York

GuidelinesforUrbanErosionandSedimentControl.Landownersshallbearfullresponsibility

fortheinstallation,construction,andmaintenanceofallerosioncontrolme asures

required

asaconditionofapproval.

(o) ThePlanningBoardshallevaluateallpotentialimpactsofamajorsubdivisiononroadsand

shallminimizeimpactstoallroads,especiallytownruralroadsbyminimizinggradechanges,

placementofnewculverts,paving, removalofvegetationorotheractivitiesthatwouldalter

the

ruralroadcharacterorleadtochangedorincreasedmaintenanceneedsonsuchroad.



(2) InanyapplicationwithintheEPO‐2district,andsubjecttothissection,featuresthatprovide

scenicimportancetoridgelineareasshouldbepreservedtothemaximumextentfeasible.These

featuresinclude,butarenot

limitedto,individualhe althytreeswithinopenfieldsthatareat

least18inchesindiameteratbreastheight(dbh),historicstructures,hedgerows,publicor

privateunpavedcountryroads,andstonewallsandthefollowing:



(a) ArchitecturalDesign.

(1) Colorandmaterialsusedforbuildingsshouldbecompatiblewiththe

naturallandscape.

Earthtonecolorsandnaturalmaterialssuchaswood,naturalbrick,tile orearthtone

concreteshinglesarerecommended.

(2) Theslopeoftheroofshouldbeorientedinthesamedirectionofthenaturalterrainand

mirrortheangleofthenaturalhillside.

(3) Windowsshouldbe

oflowreflectivity,largewindowsshouldbescreenedbynative

trees,andupperfloorwindowsshouldbesmallersoastoreducevisualimpacttothe

maximumextentpossible.

(b) Vegetation.Existingvegetationwithinridgelineareasshallbepreservedtothemaximum

extentpractical.Everyattemptshallbemadetolimit

cuttingnecessaryforeither

constructionortheopeningofviewsfromtheprojectsitesoastomaintainnative

vegetationasascreenforstructures,asseenfrompublicroadsorparksorotherpublic

views.Nativeshrubsandtreesshallberetainedtohelpmaintainnaturaldrainageswales,



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 98 

reduceerosion,andpreservethecharacterofthehillside.Existingvegetationandtrees

shouldbeprotectedfromdamageduringconstruction.

easementstoprotectorbufferviews.Aconservationeasementshallfollow§247ofNew

YorkState

GeneralMunicipalLawand§§49‐0301through49‐0311oftheNewYorkState

EnvironmentalConservationLaw.



C. Referral.TheTownofChatham'sridgelineareascontainsignificantwildlifehabitats.Toreceive

assistanceinitsreviewofapplications,theapplicableboardmayrefertheproposedplantotheNew

York

StateDepartmentofEnvironmentalConservationand/ortheNewYorkNaturalHeritage

Programforitsreviewandrecommendations.Toreceivefurtherassistance,suchreviewingboard

mayrefertheproposedplanstoanysuchagenciesorofficialsoftheTown,county,state,orfederal

governmentastheboardmaydeemappropriate.



Waiver.ThePlanningBoardmaywaivesomeoralloftheregulatoryrequirementsofthissectionin

theEPO‐2Districtonlyunderanyofthefollowingcircumstances:

(1) ThestructureorareawithintheEPO‐2Districtissituatedsothatitdoesnotcreateavisual

impact,whenviewed

fromvisuallysensitiveareas,includingpublicviewlocations,scenicroads

orimportantviewsidentifiedintheTownofChathamComprehensivePlanorScenicRidgeline

Map;or



(2) ThePlanningBoardfindsthattheworktobedoneisofaminornatureandisconsistentwiththe

designstandardsset

forthinthissection;or



(3) Theuseinvolvescommerc ialagriculturaloperations.



AnysuchwaiverbythePlanningBoardshallbedoneinwritingprovidingreasonabledetailandreference

tothecriteriafoundintheprecedingsection.Suchwrittenwaivershallincludethereasoningforwaiving

oftherequirements

andhowthewaiverwillnotcompromisethegoalsofthesection.



§180‐28.DensityBonuses.

A.PurposeandApplicabilityandIncentives.



(1) Purpose.Pursuantto§261‐boftheNewYorkStateTownLaw,theTownofChathamhereby

establishesaprogramtoencouragethepreservationofopenspace,

topromote

environmentallysustainableandenergyefficientdevelopment,toenhancepublicaccessto

recreationallandsorwaterbodies,topromotedevelopmentofhousing forseniorcitizens,and

topromoteprovisionofotherfacilitiesandamenitiesthatwouldbenefittheTownbyproviding

incentive(s)toapplicantsseekingapprovalofasubdivision

orsiteplan.ThePlanningBoardmay

grantzoningincentivesthatareincompliancewiththeTownofChathamComprehensivePlan

andwiththeprovisionsofthissection.



(2) Applicability.

(a) Theincentivessetforthhereinmaybeapplicabletoresidentialdevelopmentsinanyzoning

districtexcepthamletdistricts.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 99 

(b) Whereanapplicationseekssubdivisionapprovalaswellasotherapprovals,theprojectshall

beconsideredinitsentiretyand incenti v esshallnotbegrantedseparatelyforallapprovals.

alreadyrequiredunderotherprovisionsof

thisLocalLaworStatelaw,includingany

mitigationmeasuresrequiredpursuanttotheStateEnvironmentalQualityReviewAct.



(3) Incentives.Anapplicantmayapplyforanincentiveadjustmenttothemaximumunitdensity

requirementsofthisLawinexchangeforoneormoreofthefollowingbenefits.Butin

nocase

shallthetotalapprovedincentivesexceeda30%aggregateincreasetothemaximumunit

densityfortheproposedproject.

(a) PermanentConservationofNaturalAreasorOpenSpaces.Abonusmaybegrantedforthe

permanent preservation of open space lands through a conservation easement when a

subdivisionis

designedasandcomplieswiththeTownConservationSubdivisionLaw(Chapter

135), up to a fifteen percent (15%) increase to the maximum unit density for the zoning

district.

(b) Cultural,archaeological,historicfacilitie sorotheruniquefeaturesdeededtomunicipalityor

qualifiednot‐for‐profitagencies.Abonusmaybe

grantedforthepermanentpreservationof

acultural,archaeologicalorhistoricresourceorfacility,uptoafifteenpercent(15%)increase

tothemaximumunitdensityforthezoningdistrictmaybeapproved.

recreational lands

 or facilities open to the public, public access to streams, access to old

railroadbeds,accesstootheropenspacelands,theprovisionoffishingrights,orprovisionof

publictrailsandpublictraillinkages,uptoafifteenpercent(15%)increasetothemaximum

unitdensityforthezoning

districtmaybeapproved.

(d) Senior Housing.For the provision of housing dedicated for use by senior citizens, up to a

thirty percent (30%) increase to the maximum unit density for the zoning district may be

approved.Thebonusunitsmaybeassignedforeitherseniorcitizenornon‐seniorcitizen

units

butmayonlybedistributedproportionatelytotheratioofseniortonon‐seniorunits.(For 

example, if 100% of all proposed units are for senior housing, then the applicant may be

eligiblefora30%bonus.If50%ofproposedunitsareproposedforseniorcitizenoccupancy,

then

theapplicantmaybeeligibleforamaximumofa15%bonus.)

(e) EnergyEfficientandEnvironmentallySustainable(Green)Structures:Abonusmaybegranted

when projects and structures are designed using LEED certified and other green building

technologies, up to a fifteen percent (15%) increa se to the maximum unit density

 for

residential development, or adjustments in area requirements for non‐residential

developmentinthezoningdistrictmaybeapproved.



(4) ProceduresandCriteriaforApprovalofIncentives.

(a) Wherethepl otfallswithintwoor morecontiguousdistricts,theTownBoardmayapprovean

incentivedevelopmentrepresentingthecumulativedensity

asderivedfromsummingofall

residential lots allowed in all such districts together  with the incentive density, and may

authorizeactualconstructiontotakeplaceinalloranyportionofoneormoresuchdistricts.

(b) Examplesofwaysthatcommunitybenefitsmaybeaccomplishedare:

(1) Use

ofpermanentconservationeasements.

(2) Donationsoflandinfeesimpleforconservationandothercommunitybenefitpurposes.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 100 

(3) Constructionofamenities,servingaTown‐wideneed,accessibletothegeneralpublic,

aboveandbeyondthatrequiredtomitigateproposedimpactsinaccordancewith

SEQRAandtheTownlaw.

(4) Constructionorimprovementtopublicworksaboveandbeyondthatrequiredto

mitigateproposedimpactsinaccordancewith

SEQRAandtheTownlaw.

recommendationfromthe PlanningBoard priortothePlanningBoard grantofpreliminary

platorsiteplanapproval.Anylotorlotsproposedtobepartofanincentiverequestshall

be

shownandidentifiedonallplanssubmittedforreview.

(d) Applica tionsforincentives inexchangeforamenitiesshallbesubmittedtotheTownBoard

and Planning Board simultaneously.In order to preliminarily evaluate the adequacy of

amenitiestobeacceptedinexchangefortherequestedincentive,thefollowinginformation

shallbegivenbytheapplicant tobothboards:

(1) Identification oftherequestedincentiveinsufficientdetail.

(2) Identification oftheproposedamenityinsufficientdetail.

(3) Anarrativewhichdescribesthebenefitstobeprovidedtothecommunitybythe

proposedamenity.

(4) Anarrativewhichdescribestheimpacts

ontheTown’sinfrastructureandemergency

servicesasiftheproposedsubdivisionincludingtheincentiveweredevelopedtoits

fullestpotential.Thisincludesevaluationoftheproposedsewer,water,transportation,

wastedisposalandemergencyserviceprotectionfacilitiesandwhatimpactthose

additionaldemandswillbeplacedonthesefacilities.

(5)

AnarrativethatexplainshowtheamenityhelpsimplementthevisionoftheTownof

ChathamComprehensivePlan.

(e) Applicants may first seek non‐binding input from the Planning Board as to whether the

proposalisworthyofconsiderationpriortothepreliminaryplatorsiteplanapplication.The

Planning Board

 shall schedule a workshop to discuss the incentive application with the

applicant. The intent of the workshop is to share information between the applicant, the

PlanningBoard,TownBoardmembers,andinterestedmembersofthepublic.Theworkshop

willnot suppl anttheformalhearingwhichwillbeconductedbythe

TownBoardlaterinthe

review process. The applicant shall pr ovide  to the Planning Board the site plan with the

densitybonusincludedasanalternativeaswellasonewithoutthedensitybonussothatthe

PlanningBoardandpubliccancompareside‐by‐sidewhatisallowedwithoutthe

bonusand

whatwouldgoinifthebonuswasgranted.

(f) ThePlanningBoardmayengageaconsultanttoassistinreviewoftheapplication,thecostof

whichwillbebornebytheapplicantpursuanttoChathamTownCodeArticle138.

(g) PlanningBoard Procedures.ThePlanning Board

shall,beforemaking arecommendationto

theTownBoard,refertheproposalforreviewandcommenttoothergovernmentalagencies

asmayberequiredandmayrefertheproposaltootherboardsandofficialsintheTownfor

reviewandcomment.

(1) CompliancewithSEQRA.AllapplicablerequirementsoftheState

EnvironmentalQuality

ReviewActshallbecompliedwithaspartofthereview,workshopandhearingprocess.

(a) EverydecisionbythePlanningBoardconcerninganapplicationforuseofincentive

zoningonaparticularprojectwillfullycomplywiththeprovisionsofSEQRA.

(b) Theapplicant willsubmit an

EnvironmentalAssessmentForm,Part1,asrequiredby

thePlanningBoardaspartoftheapplication.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 101 

submittedpursuanttothissection.

(2) ThePlanningBoardshallholdalegallynoticedpublichearing.Thepublichearingrelated

totheincentiveapplicationmaybecombinedwithanypublichearingthePlanning

Boardholdspursuant

toSEQRAoranyotherstateorlocallaw.Atleastfivedays’notice

(fourteen

(14) days if a draft environmental impact statement or supplemental environmental

impactstatementisrequired)ofthe timeandplaceofahearing willbe publishedinan

officialne wspaperof theTown.Allcurrentproperty

ownersadjacent to,directlyopposite,

orwithin500’ oftheappli cant's  propertyshall benotifiedofthepublic hearing.Notice

shallbemailed,returnreceiptrequested,atleast10calendardayspriortothehearing.

Allpublicnoticesshall specifically notifythe publicthat adensity bonus is being sought

and shall briefly describe the bonus being soughtand the proposed community benefit

soughttobeexchanged,therefore.



(3) ThePlanningBoard,inconsiderationofanapplicatio nfordensityincentives,shallmake

awrittenstatementoffindingsmakingarecommendationfororagainstadensitybonus

and setting forth in

reasonable detail the reasons based on evidence in the record

supporting its recommendation.The findings shall include, but not be limited, to the

following:

(1) Thattheproposedadjustmentswouldnothaveasignificantadverseimpactonthe

property,ortoadjoiningproperty,ortotheneighborhoodinwhichtheproperty

is

situated.

(2) Thatpropereasements,suretyorperformanceguarantees,ifnecessary,between

theapplicantandtheTownisorwillbeinexistenceasofthedatethefinalplatmap

issignedbytheChairmanofthePlanningBoard.

(3) Thatthenecessarywaterandsepticrequirementscan

bemetwiththeproposed

densityadjustments.

(4) Thattheproposedamenityprovidessuff icientpublicbenefittoprovidethe

requestedincentive.

(5) Developmentcapacity.Thattheproposedproject,includingtheincentive,canbe

adequatelysupportedbythepublicfacilitiesavailableorprovidedasaresultofthe

project,includingbutnot

limitedtosewer,water,transportation,wastedisposal

andfireprotection,withoutreducingtheavailabilityofsuchfacilitiesforprojects

permittedasofrightundertheTownofChathamZoningLaw.

(6) Publicbenefit. Thatthepublicbenefitrealizedbytheamenityprovidedbythe

applicantiscommensuratewiththeincentive

grantedbythePlanningBoard.

(7) Projectquality.Thattheprojectisinharmonywiththepurposeandintentofthis

locallawandwiththestatedobjectivesandwillpromotethepurposesherein,that

theprojectissufficientlyadvantageoustorenderitappropriateforgrantofan

incentiveandthat

theprojectwilladdtothelong‐termassetsoftheTownof

Chatham.

(8) ComprehensivePlan.Thattheuseofanincentivefortheparticularprojectis 

consistentwiththeComprehensivePlan.

(10) ThePlanningBoard’sreferraltotheTownBoardshallincludeareportwiththe

followinginformation:





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 102 

(a) Anevaluationofhowtheincentivewouldbenefitthesiteandhowincreased

densityrelatestoadjacentusesandstructures.ThePlanningboardshallassess

whethersuchbenefitswouldnototherwiseresultasprovidedintheprovisions

oftheTown’slaws.(Thisevaluationisnotintendedtoserveas

asiteplanor

subdivisionreview,whichwouldotherwiseoccurafterafinaldecisionofthe

PlanningBoardontheincentiveapplication.)

(b) ASEQRAde terminationastowhethertheproposalwillhaveasignificant

impactontheenvironment.

waste

disposal,andemergencyservicefacilitiestoservetheproposedincentive

developmentandthatsuchdevelopmentwillnotesubstantiallyand

deleteriouslyimpactuponthedevelopmentprerogativesofneighboringlands

pursuanttolocallaw.

(4) ThePlanningBoardmayrecommendthattheTownBoardplaceconditionsonanygrant

ofadensity

bonustoensurethatthePlanningBoard’sfindingsareappliedthroughthe

subsequentplanreview,permittingandconstructionphasesoftheproject.

(5) ThePlanningBoard’sdecisionshallbewithinitsdiscretion,subjecttotheprovisionsof

this Section, and the Planning Board is free to recommend for or against any

 density

bonusapplicationinaccordancewithitsgoodjudgmentbasedonitsreview..



. TownBoardApprovalProcess.



(1) ShouldthePlanningBoardmakeapreliminarydeterminationtorecommendissuanceofan

incentive,withinsixty‐two(62)daysofreceiptoftheapplicationfortheincentive,orinthe

eventtheapplicationmightcauseapresentorfutureexpenditureofpublicfunds or

commitment

ofpublicfinancialresources,itshallrefertheapplicationtotheTownBoardfor

finalapproval.ThistimeframemaybeextendedbyagreementofboththePlanningBoardand

applicant.



(2) TheTownBoardshallholdaproperlynoticedpublichearing.Within62daysofthecloseofthe

publichearinganduponcompletionoftheSEQRAprocess,theTownBoardwilltakeactionto

approve,approvewithmodificationsorconditions,ordenytheproposedincentivezoning

application.Regardlessof

thesubstanceofthedecision,theTownBoard’sdecisionshallbein

writingandshallsetforthinreasonabledetailthereasonsinsupportofitsdecision,including

specificallyaddressingtherecommendationoftheTownPlanningBoardandany

recommendationsorcommentsreceivedfromtheColumbiaCountyPlanni ngBoard.Acopy

of

theTownBoard’sdecisionshallbefiledintheofficeoftheTownClerk,withacopyofthe

decisionprovidedtotheapplicant,thePlanningBoard,theZoningBoardofAppealsandthe

CodeEnforcementOfficer.Thetimefra memaybeextendedbyagreementbyboththeTow n

Boardandapplicant.



(3) UponTownBoardapproval,thePlanningBoardisauthorizedtoactontheapplicationfor

preliminaryandfinalapprovalpursuanttotheSubdivisionRegulations,andorSitePlanReview

pursuanttothischapter.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 103 



ARTICLEIV.SpecialRegulations



§180‐29.Siteplanreview.



A. ThePlanningBoardshallreviewallplansfornonresidentialuses,publicandsemipublicbuildings,

multifamilyresidentialunits,timberoperations,whetherornotsuchdevelopmentincludesa

subdivision,clusteredsubdivision,conservationsubdivision,orresubdivisionofasite.Whenever

thecircumstancesofaproposeddevelo pmentorapplicationrequirecompliancewiththis

SitePlan

ReviewSectionandwithanotherlocallaw,ordinanceorrequirementofthetownsuchas,butnot

limitedto,SpecialUsePermitsandSubdivision,thePlanningBoardshallintegrate,totheextent

reasonablypracticable,siteplanreviewwiththeproceduralandsubmissionrequirementsforsuch

othercompliancesoas

nottodelayreviewanddecision‐making.



B. Landuse activities whichareexemptedfromtheSitePlanReviewrequirementsofthisChapterare:

(1) Singleandtwo‐familydwellings,unlessinanEPO‐1orEPO‐2OverlayDistrict.IfinanEPO

Overlay,seesection180‐26and

180‐27.



(2) Ordinaryrepairormaintenanceofexistingstructuresoruses;



(3) Structuresassociatedwithafarmoperation,commercialhorseboardingoperationandriding

academy,andotheragriculturalstructuresasdefinedunderN.Y.StateBuildingandFireCode

Regulationsandagriculturallanduses,withtheexceptionof

roadsidestandsforthesaleof

agriculturalproductsfromapermanentstructure.SeeSection180‐29(C)(2)forModifiedSite

PlanReviewforCertainAgriculturalUses.Temporaryroadsidestandssmallerthan100square

feetareexempt;



(4) Ext erioralterationsoradditionstoanexistingresidentialstructurewhichdonot

substantially

changeitsnatureoruse;



(5) Interioralterationsthatdonotsubstantiallychangethenatureoruseofanexistingcommercial

structure;



(6) Anychangeinusewhichdoesnotrequiretheissuanceofacertificateofoccupancypursuantto

theNewYorkStateBuildingandFireCode;



(7) Residentialgardenusesandresidential,noncommercialtimbercutting;



(8) Garageandlawnsales;



(9) Customaryresidentialaccessoryuses.



(10) Usesandstructureswhichhavealreadylawfullyinitiatedconstructionpriortotheenactment

ofthisZoningLaw.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 104 

(11) Anyusethatrequires aspecialusepermitpursuanttoTable2andArticleIVthatisproposedto

bewithinanexistingstructureorthatutilizesexistingfacilitiesandwheretherearenochanges

proposedtotheexistingstructureotherthannormalmaintenanceandrepairtosuchstructure,

ortoaparkinglot,signage,lighting,orotherfeaturessitedontheparcel.Seealso§180‐30.



C. SitePlanApplicationProcedure

(1) SketchPlan.AsketchplanconferencebetweenthePlanningBoardandapplicantshall beheld

toinitiallyreviewthebasicsitedesignconceptandto

generallydeterminetheextentofsite

planreviewnecessaryfortheintendedprojectandtheinformationtoberequiredonthesite

planandinaccompanyingreports.ThePlanningBoardshallscheduleasitevisitbyatleast

two(2)ofitsrepresentativestofamiliarizeitselfwiththeparcelandproject,

preferablyprior

tothesketchplanmeeting,butnolaterthan30daysfromthesketchplanmeetingforsite

planapprovaloraspecialusepermit.

(a) ThePlanningBoardshallpublishthedate,placeand timeofthesketchplanmeetingonthe

Townwebsiteandinthe

localpapersothatthepubliccanlearnabouttheproposalatthe

earlieststageofprojectreview.

(b) Theapplicantshallprovideseven(7)papercopiesandoneelectroniccopy(pdf)ofthe

followinginformationtothePlanningBoardfortheSketchPlanconferenceatleastten(10)

daysprior

toaregularlyschedule d PlanningBoardmeeting:



(1) Astatementandroughsketchshowingthelocationsanddimensionsofprincipaland

accessorystructures,parkingareas,access,signs,existingandproposedvegetation,

otherplannedfeatures;generalanticipatedchangesintheexistingtopographyand

naturalfeatures;andwhereapplicable,measuresandfeatures

tocomplywithwetland,

stream,floodhazardandfloodinsuranceregulations,ifneeded.

(2) Anareamapshowingtheparcelunderconsiderationforsiteplanreview.

(3) Atopographicorcontourmapofadequatescaleanddetailtoshowsitetopography.

ThePlanningBoardshallhavethediscretiontowaive

theprovisionofatopographical

mapintheeventthattheapplicantshallshowthatthecon tourofthesubjectmatter

parcel(s)doesnotimpacttheprojectinanymanner.

(4) Asketchmapshowingknownlocationsofnaturalfeaturesandresourcessuchas

wetlands,vernalpools,streams,lakes,steepslopes,

orfloodplainssothatthedesign

componentsoftheprojectcanbeevaluatedincontextwiththehabitatsandecologyof

thesite.TheTownofChathamComprehensivePlanandtheTownofChathamFarmland

ProtectionPlanmaybeconsultedbytheapplicantinformulatingthisportionofthe

sketch

map.

(5) Astatementindicatingwhichzoningdistrict(s)theprojectisproposedtobelocatedin

andwhetheranyportionoftheprojectpropertyislocatedinacertifiedNew YorkState

AgriculturalDistrictorwithintheEPO1orEPO2Districts.





isinconformitywiththeTownofChathamZoningLaw,willrequireamodifiedsiteplan

reviewasperSection180‐29(C)(2)orafullsiteplanreviewasperSection180

‐29,

determineiftheprojectisconsistentwiththeComprehensivePlan,andidentifyissuesand

concernstobeaddressedduringthereviewprocess.ThePlanningBoardshallalsoreview

withtheapplicantsubmissionrequirementstodeterminewhatspecificinformationistobe



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 105 

presentedwiththesitepl anapplicationandwhatgeneraltimeframesareapplicablefor

SEQRAandthesiteplanreviewprocess.



(2) ModifiedSitePlanReviewforAgriculturalUses.



Theprocessoutlinedinthissub‐sectionaffordstheTownofChathamanopportunityto

examineaproposedagriculturalproject

andtoevaluateandmitigatepotentialimpactsto

protectandpreservepublichealth,safetyandwelfarewithoutundulyburdeningfarm

operations.



(a) Applicability:Anynewagriculturalstructurethatislargerthan7,500squarefeetbuilding

footprintandthatisproposedtobesitedwithintheEPO‐1orEPO‐2

districts,orany

agriculturalstructureproposedtobebuiltwithin100’ofastreamorwetlandshallbe

requiredtomeetallrequirementsandproceduresofthisModifiedSitePlanReview

pursuanttothissub‐section.Anyother agriculturalbuildingsareexemptfromtheprovisions

ofthissection.Anapplicationto

thePlanningBoardshallberequiredforanyagri‐tourism

eventwithanexpectedattendanceofover300peopleperday.

(b) Amodifiedsiteplanreviewshallrequirethesubmissionof,andconsistofareviewof,the

following:

(1) Sketchoftheparcelonalocationmap(e.g.,

taxmap)showingbou ndariesand

dimensionsoftheparceloflandinvolvedandidentifyingcontiguousproperties,the

ownersofsuchcontiguousproperties,andanyknowneasementsorrights‐of‐wayand

roadways.

(2) Identificationoftheexistingfeaturesofthesiteincludinglandandwaterareas,water,

sewerorsepticsystems,

andtheapproximatelocationofallexistingstructuresonor

immediatelyadjacenttothesite.

(3) Representationoftheproposedlocationandarrangementofbuildingsandusesonthe

site,includingmeansofingressandegress,parkingandcirculationoftraffic.

(4) Indicationoftheproposedlocationandarrangementof

specificlanduses,suchas

pasture,cropfields,woodland,livestockcontainmentareas,ormanurestorageor

compostingsites.

(5) Sketchofanyproposedbuilding,structureorsign,includingexteriordimensionsand

elevationsoffront,sideandrearviews,includingcopiesofanyavailableblueprints,

plansordrawingsofsame.Wherethe

applicationdoesnotproposelargescale

improvementsorcomplexplanningorsafetyissues,thenaplandrawntoscalebya

surveyorshallnotbearequirement.

(6) Ashowingorstatementbytheapplicantthatanyexteriorlightingnewlyinstalledshall

bedownward‐directedandinstalledsothatno

partofthelightbulborlightsourceis

visiblebeyondthepropertyboundary.

(7) Adescriptionoftheexistingand/orproposedfarmoperationandanarrativeofthe

intendeduseandlocationofproposedbuildings,structuresorsigns,includingany

anticipatedchangesintheexistingtopographyandnaturalfeaturesof

theparcelto

accommodatethechanges.Thisshallincludethenameandaddressoftheapplicant

andanyprofessionaladvisors.Iftheapplicantisnottheowneroftheproperty,provide

authorizationoftheowner.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 106 

(8) Ifastructureisproposedtobelocatedwithin200feetofastream,lake,orwetland,

theapplicantshallprovideacopyofthefloodplainmapandwetlandmapthat

correspondswiththeboundariesoftheproperty.

(9) Acompletedagriculturaldatastatement.

(10) Applicationformandfee,

ifestablishedbytheTownBoard.



PlanningBoardmaywaivethisrequirementforproposedagriculturally‐relatedusesona

farmoperationthatdonotinvolveanypublicvisitationtothesite.

(d) As

perPart617oftheStateSEQRAregulations,agriculturaloperationsareTypeIIactions

andarethusexempt.Therefore,noenv ironmentalreviewshallberequiredduringa

ModifiedSitePlanReview.

(e) ThePlanningBoardshallinitiateitsreviewofamodifiedsiteplanapplicationupon

determinationthattheapplicationis

completeandshallmakeitsdecisionassoonas

possiblebutwithin62days.IfnoactionistakenbythePlanningBoardwithinthattime

frame,theapplicationshallbedeemedapproved.Timeframesmaybeextendedonlyby

mutualacceptancebyboththeapplicantandthePlanningBoard.

(f) ThePlanningBoardshalltakeintoconsiderationthesizeandnatureoftheparticular

agriculturalactivity,includingtheconstructionoffarmbuildings/structuresandshall

approve,approvewithmodificationsordenytheapplication.Modificationstothe

proposedsiteplan,ifany,shallbemadetopromotethehealth,safety,andgeneral

welfare

oftheTownandshallnotundulyrestricttheagriculturaloperation.



(3) Applicationforsiteplanapproval.Withinsixcalendarmonthsofthesketchplanconference,a

completedTownofChathamapplicationforsiteplanapprovalshallbemade bytheapplicant,in

writing,providing7papercopiesand

1electroniccopy(pdf),tothePlanningBoardandshallbe

accompaniedbyasiteplanwhichincludesinformationdrawnfromthefollowingcheckl istof

items.



(4) Siteplanchecklist.Thesiteplanchecklistshallincludethefollowingtobesubmittedbythe

applicant:



(a) Awritten,detailedproject

narrative.

(b) Titleofsiteplan,includingthenamesandaddressesoftheapplicantandtheperson(s)

responsibleforthepreparationofsuchdrawingandasignatureblockforthePlanning

Board'sendorsementofitsapprovalofthesiteplan.Iftheapplicantisacorporationor

LLC,namesandaddresses

oftheprincipalshareholdersormembersshallbeidentifiedon

theapplication.

(d) AnareamapkeyedtotherealpropertyTaxMaps,showingtheparcelunderconsideration 

forsiteplan

reviewandallproperties,subdivisions,streetsandeasementswithin200feet

oftheboundariesthereof.

(e) Accura teboundariesofthepropertyplottedtoscale,includingreferencetothespecific

datasource.

(f) Thenamesandaddressesofallcurrentownersofrecordoflandsadjacentto,directly

opposite,orwithin500

feetoftheboundariesoftheapplicant'sproperty.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 107 

(g) Identificationofthezoningdistrict(s)andoverlaydistrictswithinwhichtheproposed

projectislocated,andidentificationiflocatedwithinacertifiedNewYorkStateAgricultural

District.

(h) Thelocationofexistingstructuresusesandfacilities(includinganywells,utilities,orseptic

systems),ifanyonthepropertyand

onadjacentpropertieswithin100feetofthesubject

propertyline.

(i) AnAgriculturalDataStatementpreparedbytheapplicantusingtheformsuppliedbythe

CEO,iflocatedinorwithin500feetwhetherinaofacertifiedNewYorkStateAgricultural

Districtorotherwise,andidentificationofany

activeagriculturaloperationsexistingonor

withinfivehundredfeetoftheproject,regardlessofwhethertheprojectislocatedwithina

certifiedNewYorkStateAgriculturalDistrictornot.

(j) Existingwatercourses,wetlands,vernalpoolsandfloodplains,includingreferencetothe

specificdatasource.

(k) Locationofallexisting

easements,covenantsandrestrictions,rightsofways,other

reservationsofland,andareasdedicatedtopublicusewithinfivehundredfeetofthe

applicants’propertyaswellasanysignificantrestrictionsaffectingaccesstoorthe

developmentof,theland.

(l) Thelocationandboundariesofpertinentnaturalfeaturesthatmay

influencethedesignof

theproposeduseorthatwouldbeaffectedbytheproposedusesuchasbutnotlimitedto

soiltypes,rockoutcrops,woodedareas,otherexistingvegetativecoverandeither

specimentreesorsubstantialtreemassesontheproperty.

(m) Thelocationandidentificationofany

criticalorrarehabitats.

(n) Gradinganddrainageplan,showingexistingandproposedcontoursatanappropriate

intervaltobespecifiedbythePlanningBoardatthesketchplanconference.

(o) Soilerosionandsedimentcontrolplan,ifrequiredbyanyapplicablefederal,state,county

orlocallaworregulation,or

ifrequiredbyEPO‐1district.

(p) Thelocation,design,dimensions,proposeduse,façadetreatment,andheightofall

buildings,bothexistingandproposed.

(q) Thelocation,designandconstructionmaterialsofallparkingandtruck‐loadingareas,

includingtheiraccessandegressdrivesandaclearindicationofall

trafficpatternsonthe

site.

(r) Locationandmannerforpedestrianaccessincludingbikepaths,ifany.

(s) Thelocationofoutdoorstorageforequipmentandmaterials,ifany,andthelocation,type

anddesignofallsolidwaste‐relatedfacilities,includingdumpstersandrecyclingbins.

(t) Thelocation,designand

constructionmaterialsofallexistingorproposedsite

improvements,includingdrains,culverts,retainingwallsandfences.

(u) Adescriptionofthemethodofsewagedisposalandthelocation,designandconstruction

materialsofsuchfacilities.

(v) Adescriptionofthemethodofsecuringwatersupplyandthelocation,designand

constructionmaterialsofsuchfacilities.

(w) Thelocationoffireandotheremergencyzones,includingthelocationoffirehydrantsorof

thenearestalternativewatersupplyforfireemergencies.

(x) Thelocation,designandconstructionmaterialsofallutilitiesandenergydistribution

facilities,includingelectrical,gas,wind,geothermal,hydro,and

solarenergy,andall

communicationfaciliti es,includingtowers.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 108 

(y) Thelocation,sizeanddesignandconstructionmaterialsofallproposedsignage,including

associatedlighting,ifany.

(z) Thelocationandproposeddevelopmentofallbufferareas,includingindicationofboth

existingvegetativecoverandthatportionthatwillbepreserved.

(aa) Thelocationanddesignof outdoorlighting

facilities,includingdataregarding,when

appropriate,lightinglevels.

(bb) Generallandscapingplan,includinglandscapingwithinparkinglots.

(cc) Listingofallpermitsrequiredfromothergovernmentalagenciesrequiredfortheproject.

(dd)Estimatedprojectconstructionscheduleandcost.

(ee) Otherelementsandorinformationdeemedintegraltotheproposeddevelopmentas



considerednecessarybythePlanningBoardandwhichwerecommunicatedtotheapplicant

duringthesketchplanphase.

(ff) Requiredfeeandescrowdepositfordevelopmentreviewcosts.AcompletedTownof

Chathamapplicationforsiteplanreviewandapprovalshallincludetheapplicablefeein

accordancewiththefee

scheduleestablishedandreviewedannuallybytheTownBoardand

escrowdeposit,ifneeded,asdescribedbelow.ThePlanningBoardisauthorizedtorequire

theestablishmentofanescrowaccountforreimbursementofprofessionalfeesitmayincur

astheresultofasiteplanapplicationinaccordancewithChapter138

oftheCodeofthe

TownofChatham.

(gg) Environmentalassessmentform(EAF).AcompletedTownofChathamapplicationforsite

planreviewandapprovalshallalsoincludeashortorfullEAFasrequiredbythePlanning

BoardpursuanttoSEQRA

(hh) Anarrativewhichdescribestheimpactson

theTown’sinfrastructureandemergency

services

(ii) ThePlanningBoardmayrequireadditionalstudiesincludingbutnotlimitedsuchasatraffic

impactorvisualimpactanalysis.Atrafficimpactanalysisshallbe,requiredbythePlanning

Boardifitdeterminesthattheprojectwillgeneratemorethan100cartrips

perday.The

PlanningBoardshallalsorequireatrafficimpactanalysisiflessthan100cartripsperday

areproposedbutthetypeofroad,roadconditions,lineofsightsorothersiteconditions

maybeimpacted.ThePlanningBoardshallevaluatetheimpactofaproposeddevelopment

ontownroads.IftheprojectislocatedinEPO‐1orEPO‐2Districts,thePlanningBoardmay

requireavisualimpactanalysisorastormwaterpollutionpreventionplanasperthis

subsectionandsections180‐29.Inalllocations,if,uponareviewofthematerialssubmitted

bythe

applicant,thePlanningBoarddeterminesthataproposedprojectcouldhavetraffic,

visual,orstormwaterimpacts,theyareauthorizedtorequire theapplicant toprepareand

submitatrafficimpactanalysis,astormwaterpollutionpreventionplan,oravisualimpact

assessment.Costsforallreports,assessments,orplansrequiredby

thePlanningBoard

shallbebornebytheapplicant.



(a) TrafficReport.ATrafficReport,developedbyaqualifiedprofessionaltransportation

plannerorengineerwithinputfromtheTownofChathamHighwaySuperintendent,and

whichshallincludethefollowingforthestudyarea:



(1) Adescri ptionoftheexisting

road,whetheritisaTown,CountyorStateroad,

whetheritisgravelorpaved,andgeneralroadmeasurementsincludingwidth,



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 109 

rightofway,roadsidevegetationcharacteristics,grade,curve,andpresenceof

culvertsorbridges.

(2) Internaltrafficflowanalysis.

(3) Existingandprojectedaveragedailytrafficandpeakhourlevels.

(4) Identificationofconstructiontrafficanditsimpactonroadsincludingsizeoftrucks

andequipment,frequencyofroaduse

anddeliveries,anddurationofworkalong

suchroad.

(5) Identificationifproposedtrafficconditionswilltransitionagravelroadtoapaved

road.

(6) Existingandprojectedintersectionlevelsofservice(LOS).

(7) Directionalvehicularflowsresultingfromtheproposedproject.

(8) Potentialimpactsofprojecteddailytrafficandpeak

hourlevelsontheexisting

roadcharacterandconditionsincludingbutnotlimitedtochangesinpaving,

width,rightofway,orotherdesignfeatures.

(9) Proposedmethodstomitigatetheestimatedtrafficimpact.

(10) Identificationofanypedestriancrossingissues.

(11) Themethodologyandsourcesusedtoderiveexisting

dataandestimations.



(b) VisualImpactReport.IfaVisualImpactAssessmentisrequired,itshallbepreparedby

aregisteredLandscapeArchitectorotherqualifiedprofessional,whoshallprovide

writtenevidenceorcredentialofsuchqualification,andshallinclude:



(1) Areportthatvisuallyillustratesandevaluatestherelationship

ofproposednew

structuresoralterationstonearbynatur allandscapesandtopre‐existingstructures

intermsofvisualcharacterandintensity/scaleofuse(e.g.scale,materials,color,

doorandwindowsizeandlocations,setbacks,roofandcornicelines,andother

majordesignelements).

(2) Ananalysisofthevisual

impactsfromroads,publicspaces,orparksoftheproposed

development,andofthelocationandconfigurationofproposedstructures,parking

areas,openspace,andgradientchanges.

(3) ThePlanningBoardmayrequireuseofphoto‐simulationsorballoontestsaspartof

thevisualimpactassessment.

(c)Stormwater Management Plan.

  The contents of the stormwater management plan,

stamped and signed by a licensed professional engineer, shall contain sufficien t

information for the Planning Board to evaluate the hydrological and hydr ologically

dependent characteristics of the land  to be developed, the potential and predicted

impacts of land development on the local hydrology, and

 the effectiveness and

acceptabilityofallmeasuresproposedbytheapplicantforreducingadverseimpacts.The

stormwatermanagement andstormwaterpollutionpreventionplans shallbeprepared

incompliancewiththeStormwaterDesignManualoftheNewYorkStateDepartmentof

Environmental Conservation State Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (SPDES)

programand

withtherequirementsof the Environmental Protection Agency’s Phase II

NationalPoll utantDischargeEliminationSystem(NPDES)regulations.ThePlanningBoard

shallalsoreviewtheprojectinrelationtotheTownofChathamComprehensivePlan.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 110 

(5)ImproperSegmentatio nofSitePlanProhibited.Thesiteplanapplicationandassociatedmaps

shallincludeallproposedphasesofdevelopment.Siteplanapprovalshallbebasedonthetotal

plannedprojectinordertofacilitatetheassessmentofallpotentialdevelopmentimpacts.The

PlanningBoardshallconsiderapplicationsincomplete

wherethereisreasontobelievethe

applicationappliestoonlyasegmentofthetotaldevelopment.In suchsituations,thePlanning

Boardshallreturnsuchapplicationtotheapplicanttogetherwithaletterstatingthebasisforits

determination.



D. PlanningBoardreview.Beforeapprovinganysiteplan,the

PlanningBoardshallconductareview

anddeterminethatthefollowingcriteriahavebeenmet:



(1) Thesiteplaniscompatiblewiththegoals,policiesandstandardssetforthin theTownof

ChathamComprehensivePlan.Developmentiscompatiblewithitssurroundingsandinkeeping

withthecharacterofthe

TownofChatham.



(2) ThesiteplanshowscompatibilitywiththeneighborhoodandoverallcharacterofChatham:



(a) Relationshipofbuildingsandsitetoadjoiningareas.Siteplansinvolvingnonresidentialuses

proposedadjacenttoaresidentialdistrictorresidentialusesshallbereviewedwithregardto

minimizingtheimpactof

thecommercialdevelopmentonsuchdistrictoruse.

(b) Individualbuildingsshallrelatetoeachother,andtotraditionalstructuresinthesurrounding

area,inlotplacement,scale,height,build‐tolines,andconnectionstoharmonizevisuallyand

physicallywiththetraditionalcharacterofthearea.

facadesthathonortraditionalstylesandpatternsfoundinChatham.The

PlanningBoardshallevaluatetheimpactto,andcompatibilityof,thesedesignfeatureswith

existingneighborhoods.

(d) Treatmentoftheroof,sidesandrearofallbuildingsshallbecomparableinamenityand

appearancetothetreatmentgiventostreet

frontagesofthesesamebuildings.

(e) Whencommercialprojectsinvolvetherenovation/reuseofanexistingbuilding,the

traditionalcharacter,historicalelements,andarchitecturalelementsshallbemaintained,

andconditionsmayberequiredbythePlanningBoardtoaccomplishthis.

(f) ThePlanningBoardshallensurethatthevisualimpactsof

newcommercialstructuresonhills

orridgetops,asviewedfrompublicroads,publicproperty,orpubliclyaccessareassuchas

parksshallpreventvisualdisruptionofridgelinestothemaximumextentpractical.SeeEPO2.

(g) ThePlanningBoardshallconsidertheAgriculturalDataStatementtodeterminethepossible

impactsthe

proposedprojectmayhaveonthefunctioningoffarmoperationswithinthe

NewYorkStateAgriculturalDistrictinwhichthepropertyislocated.Indeterminingthe

possibleimpactsoftheproposedproject,thePlanningBoardshallconsider:

(1) Whethertheproposedlanduseconflictswithfarmingactivities.

(2) Whetherthe

newusenegativelyimpactsafarmer'sabilitytouseexistingrights‐of‐way

orfarmroadsneededtoaccessfields.

(3) Whetherthenewuseaffectslandvaluesandrentalratesforagriculture.

(4) Whetheranynewproposedpublicroadswillaccommodateagriculturalequipmentand

traffic.

(5) Whetherthenewuse

willbeanon‐farmgrowthinducingactivity.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 111 

(6) Whetherthenewusewillremovesignificantamountoflandfrombeingavailablefor

farming.



(3) Pollutionofair,streams,wetlands,lakes,soils,groundwater,habitatsandothernatural

resourcesintheTownareavoidedormitigated.



(4) Significantnatural,ecological,cultural,andhistoricalfeaturesonthesiteare

preservedtothe

maximumamountpossibletoprotect biodiversityandenvironmentallyandecologically

sensitiveareasoftheparcelincluding,butnotlimitedtowaterbodies,wetlands, vernalpools,

criticalhabitats,streamandstreambanks,woodedareas,nativeplants,sceniclocations,

historicalstructuresandlocations,andotherareasofaestheticandecological

interest.Adverse

impactsonwetlands,vernalpoolsandothersensitiveenvironmentalfeaturesshallbeidentified

andmitigated.



(5) Adequatefacilitiestoaccommodatesafevehiculartrafficaccessandcirculation,including

intersections,roadwidths,pavementsurfacesorunpavedsurfaces,dividers,channelization

structuresandothertrafficcontrols.Trafficaccessmanagementmethodsincludingbut

not

limitedtothefollowingareusedasnecessarytothemaximumextentfeasible:



(a) Increasingspacingbetweensignalsandinterchanges;

(b) Drivewaylocation,spacing,anddesign;

(d) Mediantreatments,includingtwo‐wayleftturnlanes(TWLTL)thatallowturnmovementsin

multipledirections

fromacenterlaneandraisedmediansthatpreventmovementsacrossa

roadway;

(e) Useofserviceandfrontageroads;and

(f) Limitingright‐of‐wayaccesstohighways.



(6) Roads,pedestrianpathways,driveways,andbikepathsareproperlydesignedandoperatedfor

universalaccessibility,publicsafety,andforconsistency

withrural,hamletand/orhistoric

character,includingmaintenanceofallruralroadsespeciallyanexistingunpavedroadand

transitioningroads.ThePlanningBoardshallconsultwiththeTownofChathamHighway

Superintendentandreceivetheirapprovalonallmattersrelatingtoexistingorpotentialroad

conditionsresultingfromthedevelopment.

Asaconditionofapproval,thePlanningBoardmay

requirethattheapplicationpostabondtopayforanyrequiredroadimprovements,aswellas

foradditionalmaintenanceorrepairthatmayberequiredasaresultofthedevelopment.



(7) Off‐streetparkingandloadingfacilitiesaresafe,

adequateandsufficient,andlocated,arranged,

screened,andlandscapedtobeconsistentwithrural,hamletand/orhistoriccharacter.



(8) Thelocation,arrangement,size,designandgeneralsitecompatibilityofprincipalandaccessory

buildings,lightingandsignagemeettherequirementsofthiszoninglawandareconsistentwith

therural,hamlet

and/orhistoriccharacter.Theuseisconsistentwiththedevelopmentdesign

standardsasrequiredbytheTownofChatham.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 112 

(9) StormwateranddrainagefacilitiesareadequateandconsistentwiththestandardsoftheNew

YorkStateDepartmentofEnvironmentalConservationorotheragenciesasrequired.



(10) Watersupplyandsewagedisposalfacilitiesareadequateandmeetthestandardsofthe

DepartmentofHealth.



(11) Glareandlightpollution

thatmaybeassociatedwithnewdevelopmentandthenegative

impactsassociatedwiththemareminimizedoreliminated.



(12) Thetypeandarrangementoftrees,shrubsandotherlandscapingconstitutesavisualand/or

noise‐deterringbufferbetweentheapplicant'sandadjoininglands,thelandscapingplan

maximizesretentionofexistingvegetation

andimportantaestheticfeaturesandtherural

characteroftheneighborhoodareprotected.Newstreetsshallrequireplantingofdeciduou s

streettrees(SeeSection180‐44).



(13) Inthecaseofanapartmentcomplexorothermultipledwelling,thereisadequateusabl eopen

spaceforplayareasandinformalrecreation.



(14) Adjacentorneighboringpropertiesareprotectedagainstnoise,glare,vibration,unsightlinessor

otherobjectionablefeatures.



(15) Firelanesandotheremergencyzonesandwatersupplyforfireemergenciesareadequate.



(16) Specialattentionisgiventoensureadequacyofstructures,roadways,includingthe

preservationandmaintenanceofdirt

roads.andlandscapinginareaswithsusceptibilityto

ponding,floodingand/orerosionorinthevicinityofwetlandsorsimilarnaturalfeatures.



(17) Thereiscompatibilityandconsistencyofscaleofbuildingdesignwithexistingcharacteristicsof

theneighborhood,includingconsiderationofnearbyhistoricorarchitecturallysignificant

properties.



(18) Utilities

areadequatefortheuseofthepropertyandareinstalledunderground.



(19) Thereiscompatibilitywithactiveagriculturalactivities.



(20) TheBoardshallreviewandconsiderGISmaps,associatedinformationandimpactsduringits

reviewofanyapplicationsubmittedforreviewunderthisChapter.



(21) Anysiteplan

locatedwithinacertifiedNewYorkStateAgriculturalDistrict,orwithin500feetof

suchdistrictorfarmingoperationthatisapprovedbythePlanningBoardshallincludethe

followingnoticeonthefinal,filedsiteplan:



"Disclosure:ItisthepolicyoftheTownofChathamandthiscommunity

toconserve,protect,

andencouragethedevelopmentandimprovementofagriculturallandfortheproductionof

food,andotherproductsandalsoforitsnaturalandecologicalvalue.Thisnoticeistoinform

currentandfuturebuyersandusersofthislandusethatnearbyfarmingactivitiesoccurwithin



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 113 

theTown.Suchfarmingactivitiesmayinclude,butnotbelimitedto,activitiesthatcausenois e,

dust,smokeandodors.”



E. Publichearing.ThePlanningBoardshallconductapublichearingontheapplicationforsiteplan

approval.Thepublichearingshallbeconductedwithin62calendardaysofthe

receiptofthe

completedTownofChathamapplication.Noticeofthepublichearingshallbepublishedinthe

officialnewspaperoftheTownandpostedonTownwebsiteatleastfivecalendardaysbeforethe

publichearing.ThePlanningBoardshallrequiretheapplicanttoprovidenoticeofthepublic

hearinganddataregardingthesubstanceoftheapplicationtothecurrentownersofallproperty

adjacentto,directlyopposite,orwithin500’oftheapplicant'spropertyand thosefarmoperators

listedontheAgriculturalDataStatement,ifsubmitted,andalladjacentmunicipalities.Suchnotice

shallbemailedbytheapplicant,

certifiedmailreturnreceiptrequested,atleast10calendardays

priortothehearingattheapplicant’sexpense.Theapplicantshallsubmitthecertifiedmailreceipts

tothePlanningBoardpriortotheopeningofthepublichearing.



F. ExtensionofTime.TimeframesforanyPlanningBoardactionrelated

tothesiteplanreview

processmaybeextendedonlybymutualconsentoftheapplicantandthePlanningBoard. Failure

ofthePlanningBoardtoactwithinthetimeperiodspecifiedoragreeduponbetweentheapplicant

andBoard,shallnotconstitutePlanningBoardapprovalofthesiteplan

assubmittedorlast

amended,andshallnotbedeemedautomaticapproval.



G. ReferraltoOtherAgenciesandBoards.Exceptforsiteplanapplicationssubjecttoabbreviatedsite

planreview,allothercommercialsiteplanandsiteplanforsubdivisionapplicationsshallbesubject

to:



(1) CoordinatedReview.ThePlanning

Boardmayrefer,ormayberequiredbylawtorefer,thesite

planforreviewandcommenttootherlocalandCountyagenciesortheirdesignated

consultants,and/ortorepresentativesofFederalandStateagencieshavingjurisdictionoverthe

siteplanorsomepartoftheproposedproject.



(2)

RequiredReferral.ThePlanningBoardshallrefertotheColumbiaCountyPlanningBoardallsite

planapplicationswhicharerequiredtobereferredpursuanttotheapplicableprovisionsof

Article12‐BoftheStateGeneralMunicipalLaw.

Atleastten(10)daysbeforesuchhearing,the

PlanningBoardshallmailpublichearingnoticesfortheapplicationtotheapplicantandtothe

ColumbiaCountyPlanningBoardasrequiredbySection239‐moftheNewYorkStateGeneral

MunicipalLaw,whichshallbeaccompaniedbyafullstatement

ofsuchproposedaction.The

Countyreferralshallapplytorealpropertywithin500feetofthefollowing:



(a) Theboundaryofanyvillageortown;or

(b) Theboundaryofanyexistingorproposedcountyorstateparkorotherrecreationarea;

or

anyexistingorproposedcountyorstateparkway,thruway,

expressway,roadorhighway;or

(d) Theexistingorproposedright‐of‐wayofanystreamordrainagechannelownedbythe

countyorforwhichthecountyhasestablishedchannellines;or



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 114 

(e) Theexistingorproposedboundaryofanycountyor state‐ownedlandonwhichapublic

buildingorinstitutionissituated;or



ThePlanningBoardshallrefertotheColumbiaCountyPlanningBoardallsiteplanapplications

whicharerequiredtobereferredpursuanttotheapplicableprovisionsof

Article12‐Bofthe

StateGeneralMunicipalLaw.

(3) RequiredAgriculturalReviewandAgriculturaldatastatement.Anapplicationforasiteplan

reviewmustalsocontainanagriculturaldatastatementifanyportionoftheprojectislocated

onpropertywithinaNewYorkStatecertifiedAgriculturalDistrictcontaining

afarmoperation,

orotherpropertywithboundarieswithinfivehundred(500)feetofafarmoperationlocatedin

suchagriculturaldistrict.Theagriculturaldatastatementshallcontainthenameandaddressof

theapplicant;adescriptionoftheproposedprojectanditslocation;thenameandaddressof

anyowner

oflandwithintheagriculturaldistrictwhichcontainsfarmpropertyuponwhichthe

projectisproposed;andataxmaporothermapshowingthesiteoftheproposedproject

relativetothelocationoffarmoperationsidentifiedintheagriculturaldatastatement.The

PlanningBoardshallcauseawritten

noticeofsuchapplicationanddateofpublichearingtobe

mailedtothecurrentownersoflandasidentifiedbytheapplicantintheagriculturaldata

statement.ThePlanningBoardshallevaluatetheimpactoftheproposalonexistingagricultural

operationsinthatdistrict.ThePlanningBoardmayrequestan

advisoryopinionfromthe

ColumbiaCountyFarmlandProtectionBoard,ColumbiaCountySoilandWaterDistrict,New

YorkStateDepartmentofAgricultureandMarketsorothersuitableagenciesasneededwithany

costsbornebytheapplicant.



(4) ConservationAdvisoryCouncilandFarmlandCommittee.ThePlanningBoardmayrequestan

advisory

opinionfromtheTownofChathamConservationAdvisoryCouncil,ortheFarmland

Committeerelatedtoanyapplicationbeingconsideredforsiteplanapproval.Anysuchadvisory

opinionmustbesubmittedinwritingtothePlanningBoardsothatallproceduraltimeframes 

shallbemet.Allsuchopinionsshallbeadvisory

only.



H. SEQRACompliance.ExceptforapplicationswhichareclassifiedasTypeIIactions,noother

applicationshallbeapprovedwithoutfullcompliancewithStateEnvironmentalQualityReviewAct

(SEQRA)(6NYCRRPart617)andnootherapplicationforsiteplanreviewshallbeconsidered

completeforinitiationofthe

siteplantimeframesuntileitheranegativedeclarationhasbeen

issuedoradraftenvironmentalimpactstatementhasbeenacceptedascompletebytheSEQRA

leadagencyassatisfactorywithrespecttoscope,contentandadequacy.



I. CostsAssociatedwithSitePlanReviewandEscrow.ThePlanningBoardreserves

therighttohire

professionalconsultants,attheapplicant’sexpense,toassistthePlanningBoardinitsreviewofany

informationfiledbytheapplicantincludingthatfiledundertheSEQRAprocess.Allcostsrelatedto

thesiteinspectionandreviewofasiteplan,includinganystudies,reports,analysis,or

other

informationthatmayberequiredby thePlanningBoard,shallbebornebytheapplicant.Inaddition

totheapplicationfeesestablishedbytheTownBoard,anescrowaccountmaybeestablishedto

coverallcostsrelatedtothereviewofasiteplan.Theapplicantshallsupplythe

PlanningBoard

informationasmayberequiredtocalculatethedollaramountrequiredfortheescrowaccount.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 115 

J. PlanningBoardaction.ThePlanningBoardshallactonthesiteplanapplication.Failuretoacton

suchapplicationwithintherequiredtimeshallnotbedeemedanapproval.



(1) ThePlanningBoardshallactbyresolutiontoeitherapproveordisapproveorapprovewith

modificationsthesiteplan

application.AcopyoftheresolutionshallbefiledintheTownClerk's

officeandmailedtotheapplicantwithin10calendardaysofthePlanningBoard'saction.A

resolutionofeitherapprovalorapprovalwithmodificationsshallincludeauthorizationtothe

PlanningBoardChairmantostampandsignthe

siteplanupontheapplicant'scompliancewith

thesubmissionrequirementsstatedtherein.ThePlanningBoardshallalsobeauthorizedto

imposesuchreasonableconditionsandrestrictionsasaredirectlyrelatedtoandincidentaltoa

proposedsiteplan.Uponitsapprovalofsaidsiteplan,anysuchconditionsmustbemet

in

connectionwiththeissuanceofpermitsassetforthbelow.Whenreviewingasiteplan

applicationcontainingresidentialunits,thePlanningBoardisauthorizedtoapprovesuchsite

plan,whenofferedbytheapplicant,atitsdiscretion,aparkorparkssuitablylocatedfor

playgroundorotherrecreationalpurposes,

inaccordancewithNYSStateTownLaw§274(a)(6).



(2) IfthePlanningBoard'sreso lutionincludesarequirementthatmodificationsbeincorporatedin

thesiteplan,conformancewithsaidmodificationsshallbeconsideredaconditionofapproval

andshallbesatisfiedpriortosigningofthesiteplan .Ifthesite

planisdisapproved,thePlanning

Board'sresolutionshallstatespecificreasonsforsuchdecision.Insuchacase,thePlanning

BoardmayrecommendfurtherstudyofthesiteplanandresubmissiontothePlanningBoard

afterithasbeenrevisedorredesigned.



(3) Submissionrequirementsforstamping.Afterreceivingsite

planapproval,withorwithout

modifications,fromthePlanning Board, theapplicantshallwithinsixcalendarmonthssubmitsix

printsofthesiteplantothePlanningBoardforstampingandsignaturebytheChairman.The

siteplansubmittedforstampingshallconformstrictlytothesiteplanapprovedbythe

Planning

Boardexceptthatitshallfurtherincorporateanyrevisionsorothermodificationsrequiredby

thePlanningBoard.



(4) EffectofstampingbyPlanningBoard.Uponstampi ngandsignaturebytheChairman,the

PlanningBoardshallforwardacopyoftheapprovedsiteplantotheCodeEnforcementOfficer,

the

CodeEnforcementOfficerandtheapplicant.TheCodeEnforcementOfficermaythenissuea

buildingpermitortheCodeEnforcementOfficeracertificateofoccupancy,asapplicable,ifthe

projectconformstoallotherapplicablerequirements,includingtheapplicant'spresentationof

documentationthatallnecessarypermitsandappro valsfromfederal,

stateandcountyofficials

andagencieshavebeenissued.



(5) Expirationofapproval.PlanningBoardapprovalofasiteplanshallexpireifanyofthefollowing

circumstancesoccurs:

(a) ThesiteplanisnotsubmittedforstampingandsignaturebytheChairmanwithinsix

calendarmonthsofthePlanning

Board'sresolutionofsiteplanapproval,withorwithout

modifications.

(b) AcompletedTownofChathamapplicationforeitherabuildingpermitorcertificateof

occupancyisnotsubmittedtotheCodeEnforcementOfficerwithinonecalendaryearofthe

stampingandsigningofthesiteplanbytheChairman.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 116 

thecompletionofsubstantialconstruction within30monthsofthestampingandsigningof

thesiteplanbytheChairman.UponpriorwrittenrequesttothePlanningBoard,includinga

statementofjustificationfortherequested

timeextension,thetimeperiodforsubmission

ofthesiteplanorsubmissionofthecompleteapplicationforabuildingpermitorcertificate

ofoccupancymaybeindividuallyextendedforamaximumperiodofsixcalendarmonths

andonecalendaryear,respectively,fromtheirotherwisespecifiedterminationdates.



K. Relief

fromDecisions.AnypersonaggrievedbyadecisionofthePlanningBoardmayapplytothe

SupremeCourtforreviewbyaproceedingunderArticle78oftheNewYorkCivilPracticeLawand

Rules.Suchproceedingsshallbeinstitutedwithinthirty(30)daysafterthefinaldecisionbythe

Planning

BoardisfiledintheofficeoftheTownClerk.Suchproceedingshallbegovernedbythe

specificprovisionsofNewYorkCivilPracticeLawandRulesArticle78.



§180‐30.Specialusepermits.

A. AuthorizationtograntordenySpecialUses.TheTownBoardauthorizesthePlanningBoardtogrant

ordenyspecialusesinaccordancewiththerequirementssetforthinthissectio n. Nospecialuse

listedinthislawmaybepermitted,enlargedoralteredunlessapprovedbythePlanningBoard.All



applicationsthatrequirespecialusepermitapprovalshallalsorequiresiteplanreviewand

approval.



B. Applicationsforspecialuse.Anyapplicationforaspecialusepermitshallbemadeinwriting.The

applicationandrequiredinformationshallbedeliveredtotheClerkofthePlanningBoardatleast

ten

(10)dayspriortothedateofthenextregularmeetingofthePlanningBoard.Timeframes

outlinedinthissectionshallnotinitiateuntilthePlanningBoardhasdeemedtheapplication

complete.Sevencopiesoftheapplicationandrequiredinformation assetforthbelowshallbe

submitted.



(1) The

applicationmustincludeanEnvironmentalAssessmentForm(EAF)andallnecessary

documentationtocomplywithStateEnvironmentalQualityReviewAct,Part617(SEQRA).No

applicationshallbedeemedcompleteuntilaDeterminationofNoSignificancehasbeenmade,

oruntilaDraftEnvironmentalImpactStatementhasbeenacceptedbythe

leadagencyas

satisfactorywithrespecttoscope,contentandadequacy.



(2) Anapplicationforaspecialusepermitmustalsocontainanagriculturaldatastatementifany

portionoftheprojectislocatedonpropertywithinanagriculturaldistrictcontainingafarm

operationorotherpropertywithboundarieswithin

500feetofafarmoperation,whether

withinanagriculturaldistrictorotherwise.Theagriculturaldatastatementshallcontainthe

nameandaddressoftheapplicant;adescriptionoftheproposedprojectanditslocation;the

nameandaddressofanyowneroflandwithintheagriculturaldistrictwhichcontainsfarm



property;andataxmaporothermapshowingthesiteoftheproposedprojectrelativetothe

locationoffarmoperationsidentifiedintheagriculturaldatastatement.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 117 

(3) Fees.Feesforthespecialusepermitapplicationshallbeinaccordancewithanyfeesestablished

bytheTownofChatham.AllapplicationfeesasmaybeestablishedbytheTownBoardarein

additiontoanyrequiredescrowfees.



(4) Expenses.Theapplicantshallberesponsibleforthe

totalcostofenvironmentalreviews

determinedtobenecessarytomeetrequirementsofSEQRAasper6NYCRRPart617.13.The

PlanningBoardmayalsoincurotherextraordinaryexpensesinordertoproperlyreview

documentsorconductspecialstudiesinconnectionwiththeproposedapplicationincludingbut

notlimitedtothe

reasonablecostsincurredbythePlanningBoardforprivateconsultationfees,

feesfortechnicalandengineeringservices,legalfees,orotherexpensesinconnect ionwiththe

reviewofaspecialusepermitapplication.AllfeesshallbeestablishedbythePlanningBoard

andchargedtotheapplicant.ThePlanningBoardshall

makeareasonableestimateofthe

amountofexpensesthatitexpectstoincurduringthecourseofeachapplicationforaspecial

usepermit.TheamountsodeterminedbythePlanningBoardshallbedepositedbythe

applicantinescrowwiththeTownClerkpriortothePlanningBoard’s

commencinganyreviewof

theapplication.Iftheamountsodepositedisexhaustedordiminishedtothepointthatthe

PlanningBoarddeterminesthattheremainingamountwillnotbesufficienttocompletethe

reviewoftheapplication,thenthePlanningBoardshallnotifytheapplicantoftheadditional

amountthat

mustbedepositedwiththeTownClerk.Iftheapplicant fails toreplenishthe

escrowaccountorthereareunpaidamountsforwhichtheapplicantisresponsible,thePlanning

Board,initsdiscretion,mayceasereviewoftheapplicationuntilsuchamountsarepaidordeny

theapplication.Inno

event,however,shallanyspecialusepermitbeapproveduntilsuchsums

havebeenpaidinfull.



(5) Informalconsultation.Priortosubmissionofaformalapplication,applicantsareencouragedto

meetwiththeCodeEnforcementOfficertoreviewsubmissionrequirements.Applicantsarealso

encouraged,butnotrequired,todiscuss

theproposalwithabuttinglandowners toascertainany

issuesearlyintheapplicationprocess.



C. Procedures



CoordinationwithSitePlanReview.Whereasiteplanreviewandapprovalisalsorequired

pursuanttoTable2,thePlanningBoardshallreviewsiteplansandspecialusepermit

applicationsconcurrently.Allprocedural

andsubmissionrequirementsshallbecoordinatedso

asnottodelayreviewanddecision‐making.Inordertofacilitatethiscoordination,anyrequired

informationfromSection180‐29(SitePlanReview)shallaccompanythespecialusepermit

application.Asiteplanreviewwillnotberequiredforspecialusepermit

requestsforuseinan

existingstructureandwherenochangesareproposedtoanyfeatureonthesiteincludingbut

notlimitedtoprincipalandaccessorystructures,parking,signage,andlighting.

(1) Areavariance.Whereaproposedspecialusepermitcontainsoneormorefeatureswhichdonot

complywith

thezoningregulations,applicationmaybemadetotheZoningBoardofAppealsfor

anareavariancepursuanttoSection180‐65,withoutthenecessityofadecisionor

determinationbytheCodeEnforcementOfficer.



(2) Usevariance.AllusevarianceapplicationstotheZoningBoardofAppealsshallbe

madeonly

afterdenialofapermitbytheCodeEnforcementOfficer.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 118 



(3) PublicHearingRequired.ThePlanningBoardshalldeterminewhetheranapplicationis

completeornot.Withinsixty‐two(62)daysofreceiptofacompletedTownofChatham

application,thePlanningBoardshallholdapublichearing.Noticeofthepublichearingshallbe

publishedintheofficialnewspaper

atleastfive(5)dayspriortothedatesetforpublichearing

andpostedonTownwebsite.ThePlanningBoardshallsend,orcausetobesent,noticeofthe

PublicHearingtoallcurrentpropertyownersadjacentto,directlyopposite,orwithin500feetof

theapplicant'sproperty

andthoseagriculturaloperatorsidentifiedontheAgricultureData

Statement,ifoneissubmitted.Noticeshallbemailed,bytheapplicant,certifiedmailreturn

receiptrequested,atleast10calendardayspriortothehearing.Theapplicantshallsubmitthe

certifiedmailreceiptstothePlanningBoardpriortotheopening

ofthepublichearing.



(4) NoticetoApplicantandColumbiaCountyPlanningBoard.At leastten(10)daysbeforesuch

hearing,thePlanningBoardshallmailpublichearingnoticesfortheapplicationtotheapplicant

andtotheColumbiaCountyPlanningBoardasrequiredbySection239‐mofthe

NewYorkState

GeneralMunicipalLaw,whichshallbeaccompaniedbyafullstatementofsuchproposedaction.

TheCountyreferralshallapplytorealpropertywithin500feetofthefollowing:



(a) Theboundaryofanyvillageortown;or

(b) Theboundaryofanyexistingorproposedcounty

orstateparkorotherrecreationarea;or

roadorhighway;or

(d) Theexistingorproposedright‐of‐wayofanystreamordrainagechannelownedbythe

countyorforwhichthe

countyhasestablishedchan nellines;or

(e) Theexistingorproposedboundaryofanycountyor state‐ownedlandonwhichapublic

buildingorinstitutionissituated;or



(5) SEQRA.ThePlanningBoardshallcomplywiththeprovisionsoftheNewYorkState

EnvironmentalQualityReviewActunderArticle

8oftheEnvironmentalConservationLawand

itsimplementingregula tions.AnapplicationshallnotbedeemedcompleteuntilaNegative

Declarationhasbeenadopted,oruntiladraftenvironmentalimpactstatementhasbeen

acceptedbytheleadagencyassatisfactorywithrespecttoscope,contentandadequacy.



(6) OtherAgency

Reviews.Initsreview,thePlanningBoardshallconsultwiththeTownHighway

SuperintendentandmayconsultwiththeTownofChathamConservationAdvisoryCouncil,and

professionalssuchas,butnotlimitedto,anengineer,attorney,surveyor,orland

use/environmentalplannerandotherTownandcountyofficialsandboards,aswell

aswith

representativesoffederalandstateagencies,includingtheSoilandWaterConservationDistrict,

theUnitedStatesArmyCorpsofEngineersortheNewYorkStateDepartmentofEnvironmental

Conservation.Allfeesrelatedtoconsultationwithprofessionalsshallbebornebytheapplicant.



(7) ThePlanningBoardshallrequire

proofthatallpermitsrequiredbyother agencieshavebeen

applied‐forpriortofinalapproval.ThePlanningBoardmayapproveaspecialusepermit

applicationcontingentuponfinalapprovalofsuchapplicationbyotheragencies.TheCode

EnforcementOfficershallensurethatallotheragencyapprovalshavebeenreceived

andall



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 119 

conditionsrequiredbythePlanningBoardaremetpriortoissuingazoningpermit.Suchzoning

permitshallbeapprovedpriortotheCodeEnforcementOfficerissuingabuildingpermit.



(8) Decisions



(a) Timeofdecision.ThePlanningBoardshalldecideuponthespecialusepermitapplication

withinsixty‐

two(62)daysafterthecloseofthepublichearing,subjecttocompliancewith

therequirementsofSEQRAandtheNewYorkStateGeneralMunicipalLawSections239‐l

and239‐m.ThetimewithinwhichthePlanning Boardmustrenderitsdecisionmaybe

extendedbymutualconsentofthe

applicantandthePlanningBoard.

(b) TypeofDecision.Inrender ingitsdecision,thePlanningBoardshallapprove,disapproveor

approvewithmodificationsandconditionsthespecialusepermitapplication.Inauthorizing

theissuanceofaspecialusepermit,thePlanningBoardhastheauthoritytoimposesuch

reasonableconditions

andrestrictionsasaredirectlyrelatedto,andincidentalto,the

proposedspecialuse.ThePlanningBoardshallimposeadditionalconditionsandsafeguards

tothespecialpermituseasaredirectlyrelatedtoandincide ntal totheproposedspecialuse

permitandwhichmaybenecessarytoassurecontinualconformanceto

allapplicable

standardsandrequirements,includingreasonableassurancethattheseconditionsand

safeguardscanberesponsiblymonitoredandenforced.Restrictionsand/orconditionsmay

includethoserelatedtode signofstructuresoroperationoftheuse(includinghoursof

operation)necessaryeithertoensurecompatibilitywiththesurroundingusesorto

protect

theresourcesoftheTown.ThePlanningBoard’sdeci sion shallbeinwritingandshall

includeanexplanationinreasonabledetailofthebasisfortheBoard’sdecisionandshall

alsosetforthallconditionswhichapplytothespecialpermit, ifgranted.Uponitsgranting

ofsaidspecialuse

permit,anysuchconditions mustbemetbeforeissuanceofpermitsby

theCodeEnforcementOfficer.

five(5)businessdaysofthedatesuchdecisionisrendered,andacopythereof

shallbe

mailedtotheapplicantandalsoprovidedtotheCodeEnforcementOfficer.

(d) Aspecialusepermitshallbedeemedtoauthorizeonlytheparticularspecialuse oruses

permitted.Onceaspecialusepermithasbeengranted,itshallapplytotheapproveduseon

thatparcelregardless

ofownership,aswellastoanysubsequentuseofthepr opertyinthe

sameusecategoryaspertheUseTableforthatdistrict,providedthatsuchusehasno

greaterimpactonadjoiningproperties,complieswithalltermsandconditionsofthespecial

usepermit,anddoesnot

involvenewconstruction,enlargement,exterioraltera tionof

existingstructures,increasedparking,orotherchangeduseofoutdoorareas,orlapsesin

use.



D. Lapses,RevocationandExpiration.



(1) Specialusepermitswillexpireiftheapplicantfailstoobtainabuildingpermitorfailstocomply

withtheconditionsof

thespecialusepermit,unlessotherprovisionsaresetforthbythe

PlanningBoardinconnectionwithitsapproval,within18monthsafterapproval.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 120 

(2) AspecialpermitmayberevokedbythePlanningBoardif,afternoticetotheholderofthe

permitandanopportunityforhearing,itisdeterminedthattheconditionsofthespecialuse

permithavebeenviolated.



(3) Aspecialusepermitwillexpireifthespecialuse

orusesshallceaseformorethanthreeyears

foranyreason.Ifausesubjecttoanapprovedspecialusepermithadbeenincontinual

operationbuthassincelapsedinoperationformorethanthreeyearsbetweenPlanningBoard

approvalandre‐initiationofsuchuse,thePlanning

Boardshallrequireareviewofsuchuseprior

toreinstatementtoensurethatalloriginalconditionsofthespecialusepermitarestillvalid.In

eithercase,thePlanningBoardmay,afterreview,reinstate,orreinstatewithconditionssuch

lapseduse.SuchPlanningBoardreviewshallbeinitiatedthroughaction

bytheCode

EnforcementOfficer.



(4) Anyviolationoftheconditionsofaspecialusepermitoraviolationofanyapplicable

performancecriteriaofthischap tershallbedeemedaviolationofthischapterandshallbe

subjecttoenforcementasprovidedin this zoninglaw.



E. Renewal

ofPermit.ThePlanningBoard,asacondition ofapproval,mayrequirethatspecialuse

permitsberenewedperiodically.WhenthePlanningBoardhasestablishedsuchaconditionof

approval,atleastninety(90)dayspriortotheexpirationofaspecialusepermit,theapplicantshall

applytotheCode

EnforcementOfficerforrenewalofthespecialusepermit.TheCodeEnforcement

OfficershallinspectpremisesandprovidethePlanningBoardwithawrittenevaluationofwhether

thetermsoftheconditionsspecifiedinthespecialuseper mithavebeenmet.ThePlanningBoard

shallthendetermineifthespecial

usepermitshouldberenewed,modifiedorrevoked.



F. Existingviolation.NospecialusepermitshallbeissuedforapropertyinviolationofthisZoningLaw

unlessthegrantingofaspecialusepermitandSitePlanapprovalwillresultinthecorrectionofthe

violation.



G. Expansionof

specialuse.Theexpansionofanyspecialuseshallrequireamendmentandapprovalof

thespecialusepermitbythePlanningBoardinaccordancewiththeproceduressetforthinthis

ZoningLaw.Forpurposesofthissection,expansionshallbeinterpretedtomeananincreaseinthe

flooror

lotareaallocatedtothespecialuse,anincreaseindevelopmentcoverage,oranincreasein

theintensityoftheuse,e.g.,anincreaseintrafficorneedforon‐siteparking. 



H. Standardsapplicabletoallspecialuses.



(1) GeneralCriteria



(a) Thelocationandsizeofthe

use,thenatureandintensityoftheoperationsinvolved,thesize

ofthesiteinrelationtotheuseandthelocationofthesiteshallbeinharmonywiththe

orderlydevelopmentofthedistrictandshallbecompatiblewiththeneighborhoodinwhich

itislocatedandwiththe

ruralandsmalltowncharacteraswellascompatiblewithexisting

agriculturalactivityinthedistrict.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 121 

(b) Theproposeduseshallsafeguardthevaluesofsurroundingpropertiesfromnoise,glare,

unsightliness,orotherobjectionablefeaturesandwillnothaveanadverseimpacton

adjacentproperties.

trafficandwillhavenogreateroverallimpact

onthesiteanditssurroundingsthanwould

fulldevelopmentofusesofthepropertypermittedbyright,consideringenvironmental,

socialandeconomicimpactsoftraffic,noise,dust,odors,releaseofharmfulsubstances,

solidwastedisposal,glareoranyothernuisances.

(d) Thelo cation,natureandheightofbuildings,wallsand

fences,andthenatureandintensity

ofintendedoperationsshallnotdiscouragetheappropriatedevelopmentanduseof

adjacentlandandbuildingsnorimpairthevaluethereof;

(e) Thelandscapi ngofthesiteshallbeincharacterwiththatprevailingintheneighborhood;

(f) Thecharacterandappearanceofthe

proposeduse,building,structures,andsignsshallbein

harmonywiththecharacterandappearanceofthesurroundingneighborhood.



(2) SpecificCriteria



(a) Thelotshallbeofsufficientsize,appropriateandadequatefortheproposeduseandthe

reasonablyanticipatedoperationandexpansionofthatuse.

(b) Theproposed

useshallconformwithanyspecialrequirementsorconditionsassetforthby

thePlanningBoard.

orapotentiallyunsafecondition.InthisregardthePlanningBoardshallconsider the

estimatedtraffictoandfrom

thesiteandtheuseofthesitebycustomersand/orthepublic.

Vehicleentrancesandexitsshallbeclearlyvisiblefromthestreet.

(d) Theproposeduseshallnotaltereitherthelevelofserviceontheroadthatservesitor

significantlyaltertheessentialcharacterofthatroad,

includingdirtroads.

(e) Allproposedcurbcutsand/ordrivewaysshallbeapprovedbytheappropriateagencyor

agencieshavingjurisdiction.

(f) Thereshallbeadequateoff‐streetparkingandloadingfacilitiessufficientlyconstructedfor

theanticipatednumberofoccupants,bothemployeesandpatronsorvisitors,andfurther

thatthe

layoutforthespacesanddrivewaysadequatelyaddressesallknownsafetyissues.

Inlocationswhereon‐streetparkingisavailableorallowed,thoseparkingspacesmaybe

allowedtobeincludedtomeetparkingrequirements.Althoughon‐streetparkingmaybe

allowed,safetymustbeconsidered.

(g) Adequatebufferingandscreening

betweentheproposedsiteandadjoiningproperties shall

beprovidedforinordertoadequatelyprotectthecharacteristicsandusesoftheadjacent 

propertiesandlanduses.

(h) Thereisanadequatesupplyofwatertothesiteand thatadequateprovisionshavebeen

madeforsewage,refuseorother

waste.Theapplicantshallshowthatanypublicwaterand

sewerinfrastructuretobeusedbythespecialusehascapacitytosupporttheproposed

specialuse.Wherenopublicwaterinfrastructureexists,theapplicantshallensurethatthe

proposedspecialusedoesnotadverselyimpactwatersupplyquantityorquality

currently

usedbyexistinglandusesinthearea.

(i) Theapplicantshallprovideforadequatecollectionanddisposalofalldrainageand

stormwaterrunofffromthesitefollowingDECstormwaterguidance.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 122 

(j) Theproposeduseshallbeincompliancewithallapplicableperformanceanddesign

standardsassetforthinthischapter.

(k) Thelocation,sizeoftheuse,natureandintensityoftheoperations,sitelayoutandits

relationtostreetsandhighwaysgivingaccesstothesiteshallbe

suchthattheproposeduse

willnotbehazardous,inconvenientordetrimentaltotheneighborhood.Inapplyingthis

standard,theBoardshallconsider,amongotherthings,convenientandsaferoutesof

pedestriantraffic,particularly ofchildren,relationtomaintrafficthoroughfaresandto

streetandroadintersections,andthegeneralcharacter

andintensityofthedevelopmentof

theneighborhood.Ruralroadsshallbemaintained.

(l) Theapplicantshallsecureallnecessarypermitsfromanyfederal,stateorlocalauthority,

includingsiteplanapproval;provided,however,thattheBoardmay,initssolediscretion,

grantconditionalapprovalandestablishatimeframe

forfinalapprovalupontheissuanceof

anyrequiredpermits.Inthisregard,theapplicantshalldemonstratethatallnecessary

permitshavebeenappliedfor.Conditio nalapprovalshall notbeapplicableforpermits

requiredforingressandegress.

(m) Theapplicanthasdemonstratedcompliancewithallwetlandsandallfloodzone

regulations.

(n) Theproposeduseshallhaveadequatelighting,butsuchlightingusesstandardsfrom

professionallightingassociationssuchasInternationalDark‐SkyAssociation,NewEngland

LightPollutionAdvisoryGroup,andIlluminationSocietyofNorthAmericaandensurethere

isnounnecessaryglaretoadjacentproperties.Alllightsshallbe

downdirectedand

shielded.

(o) Allactivitiesinvolvingthestorageofchemicals,flammableandexplosivematerialsmaybe

allowedinbusinessorindustrialzonesprovidedthatadequatesafetydevicesagainstthe

hazardoffireandexplosionareinplace.Methodsofpreventionandsuppressionofthese

hazardsshallbeapprovedby

thelocalofficialsresponsibleforfirepreventionandpublic

safety.

(p) Noemissionofvibration,flyash,dust,smoke,vapors,gasesorotherformsofairpollution

shallbepermittedwhichcanjeopardizehumanhealthoranimalorplantlifeorwhich

otherwisecontributestothedeteriorationofordetracts

fromadjacentproperties.

(q) Theproposeduseshallbedesignedandcarriedoutinamannerthatdoesnotadversely

affecthistoric,aesthetic,andnaturalenvironmentalfeaturesonthesiteandinadjacent

areas.

(r) Allproposedbuildings,structures,equipment,and/ormaterialshallbereadilyaccessiblefor

fire,police,andother

emergencyserviceprotection.

(s) CompliancewiththeTownofChathamMassGatheringsLaw(LocalLaw#1of2013),et.seq.

isrequirediftheuseshallattract300ormorepeopleatanyonetime.

(t) Allapplicationsmustcomplywithsection180‐49,Noiseofthischapter.

(u) Where

abusinessdistrictuseisimmediatelyadjacenttoaresidentialuse,completevisual

bufferingshallberequired,andexistingvegetationshallbemaintainedasmuchaspossible

tomitigateanyvisualorsoundimpacts.Alllightsshallbedowndirectedwithhousing

shields.Anyoperationalsystems(HVAC,water,etc.)shallbe

shieldedandbaffled.

(v) Hoursofoperationmaybelimitedwheresuchlimitationwoulddirectlymitigatepotential

negativeenvironmentalimpactssuchastraffic,parking,lightsandsound.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 123 

§180‐31.CommercialDesignStandards

A. Purposes:Topromoteadaptivereuseofexistingbuildings,topromotethetraditionalcharacterof

businessareastobeconsistentwithoriginalsettlementareasinChatham,andtoencourage

compactcommercialdevelopmentinneighborhood‐scaledcommercialcentersforthose

applicationsthatcomebeforethePlanningBoardandZoningBoardofAppeals.





B. Applicability:ThesestandardsshallbeappliedtoallcommercialusesasperTable2,inalldistricts

exceptforhomeoccupations.AllrequirementsofArticleV(ProvisionsApplicabletoAllDistricts)

shallbemetinadditiontothoseincludedin180‐31.Additionally, trademarkedstructuresshallbe

allowedprovided

theyaredesignedtomeetallthestandardsofthissection.



C. Standards



(1) Sidewalks.Aclear,on‐sitesystemofpedestrianwalkwaysmustbeprovided.ThePlanningBoard,

initsdiscretion,mayrequireprovisionofsidewalks.Thepedestriansystemmustconnect

buildingstooneanother,toparkingareas,

andtopublicstreetsandsidewalks.

(a) Sidewalksshallbeseparatedfromvehiculartrafficlanesbyindividualplantersorplanted

strips.Plantingstripsormedians,whereprovided,shallbedepressedtofacilitaterainwater

infiltration.Sidewalksshallberaisedandcurbedalongbuildingsandwithinparkinglots,

wheresuitable.

(b) Pervioussurfaces

forsidewalksarepreferred.Pedestrianexitsfromallparkinglotsshallbe

linkedtothesidewalk.

courtyards,providedthatpedestriancirculationand accesstostoreentrancesshallnotbe

impaired.

(d) Commercialusesshallbepermitted

tohavesidewalkdisplaysofretailmerchandisedirectly

infrontoftheestablishment,providedthatatleastfivefeetofclearanceismaintainedat

thestorefrontentrance.



(2) ParkingAreas .Alloff‐streetparkingandloadingrequirementsof§§180‐42and43shallbemet

fornewcommercialuses.

Inaddition,thefollowingstandards shallbeincorporatedintothe

designfornewcommercialuses:

(a) Allparkingshallbeplacedtothesideorrearoftheprincipalbuilding.

(b) Parkingareasfornewcommercialusesshallbebufferedandscreenedfromthestreetbya

building(iftothe

rear),orvegetation(iftotheside).Thereshallbenodirectviewsof

parkedvehiclesfromstreetsalthoughsuchscreeningshallnotimpedesightdistancesfor

vehiclesandpedestrians.However,screeningofpre‐existingparkinglotsassociatedwith

commercialusesisnotrequired.

lotsshallbelandscapedtoprovideshadeandvisualreliefthrough

theuseofplantingislandsorpeninsulas.Parkinglotswithtenorlessspacesmaynot

requireinteriorlandscapingiftheplanningBoarddeterminesthatthereisadequate

perimeterlandscaping.

(d) Parkinglotlayoutshalltakeintoconsiderationpedestriancirculation.

Wherenecessaryand

appropriate,crosswalksshallbeprovidedforandbedistinguishedbytexturedpavingand

integratedintothelargerpedestriannetwork.

(e) Wherefeasible,useofpermeablesurfacesarepreferred.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 124 

(f) Aminimumofonebicyclerackplaceshallbeprovidedforeverytenvehicularparking

spaces.

(g) Minimizethenumberofoff‐streetparkingspacesprovidedshouldbetotheminimum

necessarytoadequatelyservetheinte ndeduse.

(h) Cross‐easementsbetweentwocommercialparcelsshouldbeusedto

providesharedaccess

toparkingtothemaxi mumextentpractical.



(3) Street Tre es,Screeni ngandLandscaping.Streettreesshallbeplantedwithinplantersorstrips

usingasingleoralternatingspeciesalignedevery30’oncenterandshallbedepressedto

facilitaterainwaterinfiltration.Landscapingshallberequiredinaccordance

withalandscaping

planapprovedbythePlanningBoard.Withintwoyearsfromthetimeofplanting,alldeador

dyingplants,installednewshallbereplacedbythedeveloper.Plantspeciesselectedshouldbe

hardyfortheclimateinChathamandpreferablynativespecies.ReferenceNewYorkState

StormwaterDesign

ManagementManual.

(a) Detentionbasis,headwalls,outletstructures,flowchannelsandotherdrainage

improvementsshallbescreenedwithplantmaterialsand/orberms.Incaseswherethe

abovefeaturesarenotarchitecturallycompatiblethen,fencingusedtoscreen thefeature

thatisvisiblefromthestreetoradjacentpropertiesshallbe

eitherfullyscreenedwith

vegetationoradecorativefencestyleusedthatiscompatiblewiththecharacterofthe

neighborhood.

(b) Wherepracticable,existingtreerowsandhedgerows,stonewalls,andsimilarfeatures

shouldberetainedinthedevelopmentofanynewuseortheexpansionofanyexistinguse.

Maximum

effortshouldbemadetosaveexistingmaturevegetation.



(4) Lighting.Lightingpolesshallbepoststyle,withamaximumheightof18’.Allluminairesshallbe

full‐cutoffandshieldedtodirectlightdownwards.Traditionalfixturesinstead ofshoe‐box

stylefixturesarepreferred.Ingeneral,lightingpoles

shallbespacedatnogreaterthan80feet

oncenter.Non‐colorcorrecte3dlowpressuresodiumandmercuryvaporlightsourcesare

prohibited.Thereshallbenoglarebeyondthepropertylines.ThePlanningBoardmayrequire

alightingplantoillustratelightlevelsatpropertylines.Lightingfixtures

attachedtothe

exteriorofabuildingshallbearchitecturallycompatiblewiththestyle,materials,colorsand

detailsofthebuilding.



(5) BuildingsandLotLayout.

(a) Oneprincipalbuildingisallowedalongthefrontage.

(b) Oneaccessorybuildingperlotisallowedandshallbeplacedtotherear

orsideofthe

principalbuildingandsetback20feetplustherequiredbuildingsetback.Accessory

buildingsintheH1DistrictalongKinderhookLakeasdefined in§180‐13(H)maybeallowed

tohaveashallowersetbacktoreflectsmallerlotsizes.Insuchcase,noaccessorystructure



maybecloserthanfive(5)feettothepropertyline.

theyconformtothedimensionrequirementsofTable1.

(d) Building footprintsshallbelimitedasperTable1andTable2.Nosingle

buildingshallhavea

buildingfootprintexceeding20,000squarefeet.Allbuildingshavingfacadeslargerthan



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 125 

5,000squarefeetshallbearticulatedtoappearasmultiplebuildingsorwithoffsets,each

partofwhichdoesnotexceedamaximumbuildingfootprintof5,000squarefeet.

(e) Thereshallbeamaximumofseventypercent(70%)lotcoverageintheBdistrictwitha

maximumofsixty

percent(60%)frontagebuildout.

(f) Alldumpsterortrashreceptaclesshallbeplacedtotherearofaprincipalstructureoriflot

configurationissuchthatrearaccessisnotfeasible,inthesideyardprovideditissetback

thefarthestpossibledistancefromthefrontage.

(g) Allfacades

shallbeparalleltothefrontageline.

(h) Balconies,openporchesandbaywindowsmayencroachinthefrontyard.

(i) Two‐wayvehicularentrancestoparkinglots,garages,andparkingstructuresshallbeno

widerthan24feetatthefrontage.One‐wayentrancesshallbenowider

thantwelve(12)

feetatthefrontage.Whereamixofresidentialandcommercialusesisallowedinone

structure,residentialusesshallbeplacedtotherearorupstairsofthecommercialuse.All

groundfloorspacesfacingthefrontageshallbethecommercialuse.

(j) Majormodificationstothe

existinglandscape,suchasextensivegrading,clear‐cuttingof

trees,orothersimilaractivities,shouldbeavoidedtotheextentpossible.

(k) Lowimpactdevelopment(LID)forstormwatermanagementshallbeincorporatedandshall

usetheNewYorkStateStormwaterManagementDesignManual,andinparticular,Chapter

5(GreenInfrastructure

Practices),Section5.1(PlanningforGreenInfrastructure:

PreservationofNaturalFeaturesandConservationDesign).



(6) Signs.Allsignrequirementsof180‐46shallbemet.Inaddition,

(a) Illuminatedsignageshallbeexternallyilluminatedonly,exceptthatsignagewithin

shopfrontwindowsmaybeneonorLEDlit.

(b) Signsaffixed

totheexteriorofabuildingshallbearchitecturallycompatiblewiththestyle,

composition,materials,colorsanddetailsofthebuilding,aswellaswithothersignsusedon

thebuildingoritsvicinity.



(7) BuildingDesign.Buildingsshallgenerallyrelateinscaleanddesignfeaturestothelocalcontext

ofthesurroundingbuildings,andlargerhamletarea.Newbuildingsadjacenttoexisting

structuresshouldbedesignedinamannerconsistentwiththegeneralarchitecturalfeaturesof

suchexistingstructuresintermsofform,materials,andfenestrationandroofshape.Drive‐

throughfacilitiesarenotallowedinanyhamletarea.

(a)

Thereshallbenoblankandwindowlesswallsalonganyfrontage.Thearchitectural

treatmentofthefrontfaçadeshallbecontinued,initsmajorfeatures,aroundallvisibly

exposedsidesofabuilding.Blankwallorserviceareasofsideelevationsvisiblefromthe

publicviewshedarenotallowed.

(b)

Buildingsshallbelocatedtofronttowardsandrelatetopublicstreets,bothfunctionally and

visuallytothegreatestextentfeasible.Wherethestreetfrontageisnotthefunctional front 

ofthestructure,windowsandbuildingaccessoriesshallberequiredtomakeitappear

visuallyasthefront.

buildingsizeshallbe100feetinlengthalongthefrontage.

(d) Building walloffsets,includingprojections,recesses,andchangesinfloorlevelshallbeused

inordertoaddarchitecturalinterestandvariety,andtorelievethevisualeffectofalong

wall.Roof‐lineoffsetsshallbeprovided

inordertoaddarchitecturalinterestandvarietyt

themassingofabuildingandtorelievetheeffectofasingle,longroof.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 126 

(e) Gableroofswithaminimumpitchof9/12andhippedroofsof6/12shallbeusedtothe

greatestextentpossible.Dead‐flatroofsaregenerallyinconsistentwiththeexisting

characteroftheTownandshouldbeavoided.Wherethesizeortypeofthebuilding

requiresaflat

roof,otherarchitecturalfeaturesshallscreenordisguisetheflatnessofthe

roof.

(f) Fixedorretractableawningsarepermittedatgroundleveliftheycomplementabuilding’s

architecturalstyle.Canvassandotherwater‐prooffabricisthepreferredmaterial;metalor

aluminumawningsareprohibited.

(g) AllHVAC,stacks,pipes,

andotherutilitystructuresshallbethoroughlyscreenedfromview

fromthestreetandfromadjacentproperties.

(h) Theutilizationofribbonorcontinuousstripglazinginanybuildingfacadeshouldbe

avoided.

(i) InBusinessandIndustrialdistrictswheredrivethroughfacilitiesareallowed,theyshallbe

locatedat

thesideorrearofbuildingsandlandscapingshouldbeusedtoreducethe

visibilityofsuchfacilities.

(j) Inareashavingatraditionalmainstreetstyle,conversionofanexistingmainstreet

structureshallrequireprovisionofamixofbothcommercialandresidentialuses.



§180‐32.RuralSitingStandards

A. Purposes:TopromoteandensurethatnewdevelopmentintheRuralDistrictsisinkeepingwiththe

ruralcharacterofChatham.Thesestandardsaredevelopedtopreserveruralcharacterfoundinthe

non‐hamletareasoftownbyemulatingtraditionaldevelopmentpatternsfoundthereandthese

throughstandardsthatensure

consistentlayout,siting,buildingdesign, anddimensionsof

structures.



B. Applicability:ThesestandardsshallbeappliedtoalldevelopmentwithintheRuralDistricts(RL1,

RL2,andRL3).Thesestandardsaremandatoryforallusesinthosedistrictsandareinadditionto

thoserequiredinothersectionsofthislocal

lawandtheTownofChathamSubdivisionofLandLaw.



C. Standards

(1) GeneralStandards.ThefollowingfeatureswhichaddtotheruralcharacterofChathamshallbe

maintainedtothemaximum extentfeasible:

(a) Stonewalls,maturetrees,rockoutcroppings

(b) Existingroadsidetrees



(2) DimensionsforDistrict.Inadditiontothoserequireddimensionsfr omTable 1,thefollowing

shallcoveralldevelopmentwithinanyoftheRLdistricts:

(a) ImperviousSurfaceRatio:0.06(0.06timestotalparcelarea=acreageeligibletobecovered

inimpervioussurfaces)

(b) Exceptinaconservationsubdivisiondesign,

theOpenSpaceRatio:0.85(0.85timestotal

parcelarea=acreagerequiredtobeinopenspace)

exceedasreferencedin1Table15,000squarefeet.



(3) SitingofStructuresonLots



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 127 

(a) AllnewsubdivisionsintheRL1andRL2districtsshallbesitedasper180‐35(Farmland

ProtectionSitingStandards)

(b) Onlyoneprincipalbuildingperparcelshallbeallowed, exceptforagriculturaluses.

EPODs(Environmental

ProtectionOverlayDistricts)shallbefollowed(180‐26and180‐27).

(d) Inthecaseofanopenarea,newhousesitesshallbetotheedgeofinsteadofinthemiddle

sotopreservethemaximumamountofopenspace/farmlandaspossible.Inthecaseofa

woodedarea,

newhousesitesshallbeplacedinamannertoavoidforestfragmentationto

themaximumextentfeasible.

(e) Drivewaysshallfollownaturalcontours,belocatedalongedgesoffieldsorforests,retain

treesalongthedrivewayedge,andpreferablybeofpervioussurfaces.

(f) Useofverylongsetbacks

shallbeencouragedtoprotectscenicorhistoricresourcesthat

maybepresentandvisiblefromthepublicroad.

(g) Majorsubdivisionsmayberequiredtobedesignedasaconservationsubdivisionasper

Chapter135oftheTownofChathamCode.

(h) Buffersmayberequiredasfollows:

(1) Farm

buffers–see180‐35.

(2) StreamBuffers–thereshallbea100’setbackfromallAA,A,B,C(t)andC(ts)classified

streambanksforallprincipalstructuresexceptagriculturalbuildingsareexemptfrom

thisrequirement.

(3) Alandscapedand/orfencedbuffershallbeprovidedforwhena

non‐residentialuseis

adjacenttoresidences.

(i) Stormwaterrunoffratesafterdevelopmentshallnotexceedtheratethatexistedpriorto

thesitebeingdeveloped.Lowimpactdevelopmentstandardstocontrolstormwaterasper

Chapter5oftheNewYorkStateStormwaterManagementDesignManualshallbeusedto

the

maximumextentfeasible

(j) Newcommercialbuildingswillbelocatedinawaythatminimizessignificantadverseimpact

onadjacentfarmoperationsandexpansionofagriculturaluses,andshallnotinterferewith

currentagriculturaloperations,ordisplacefarmstorage,use,orfunctions.



(4) Design

(a) Toachievethegoalsof

maximizingopenspaceandprotectionoftheenvironment,allsite

plans,subdivisionandspecialusepermitsshallrequireidentificationofbuilding envelopes

foranewstructureanditsaccessoriessuchasdriveway,outbuildingsandsepticsystems.

ThePlanningBoardhastheauthoritytositethebuildingenvelopeandtoadjust

thesitingof

thestructuretobetterpreservenaturalresources,vistas,aestheticfeatures,wildlife

resourcesandotherenvironmentalfeaturesthatmaybeontheparcel.

(b) Allsubdivisionsshallensurethatnewminorandmajorsubdivisionspreventrepetitive

single‐familydetachedhouse designs.

muchaspossible.Inlocationslacking

landscaping,thePlanningBoardmayrequirestreettreeplantingandlandscapingduring

newdevelopment.Allnewplantingsshouldreplicatethenatural,existinglandscapeofthe

area.

(d) Itisrecommendedthatdrivewaysbeconstructed ofperviousmaterials(permeablepavers

orcrushedstone,forexample).



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 128 

(e) Thelocationofanewbuildingshouldtakeintoconsiderationitsruralsurroundingandtake

advantageofthisbymaintainingopenviewsandspaces.Buildingsshouldbeinproportion,

inscaleandcharacteristictotheirruralandnaturalsetting.Thebuildingdesignandmaterial

shouldcontributetothestyle

andfeelingofitsruralsurrounding.Accessorystructuressuch

asoutparcelbuildings,accessorystructures,fencesandwallsshallhavearchitectural

featuresandexteriormaterialsconsistentwiththeprincipalbuilding.Whenpossible,garage

dooropeningsshallfacethesideorbackoftheprincipalbuildingsoasnottobevisiblefrom



theroad.

(f) Fornon‐residentialandnon‐agriculturalstructures,thereshallbevariationintheexterior

throughachangeindetail,patternsormaterials,overhangs,andchangeinrooflinesfor

every80feetofbuildinglengthonasingleface.



§180‐33.HamletDesignStandards

A. Purposes:TopromotenewdevelopmentintheHaml etDistrictsthatwillpreserveandpromotethe

traditionalhamlet‐stylecharacterfoundinthehamletandcrossroadareasoftown.Itsgoalisto

createamorepedestrian‐orientedenvironment andlimitedrelianceonautomobiles.



B. Applicability:Thesestandardsshallbe

appliedtoalldevelopmentwithinanyhamletdistrict(H1and

H2).Thesestandardsaremandatoryforallusesinthosedistrictsandareinadditiontothose

requiredinothersectionsofthislocallawandtheTownofChathamSubdivisionofLandLaw.



C. Standards

(1) Minimumlotarea,

yard,setbackandheightrequirements.SeeTable1.ForlotsinH1andH2in

theKinderhookLakeareaasdefinedin§180‐13(H),lotarea,width,andminimumyard

dimensionrequirementsofTable1maybewaivedsothatnewlotbulkdimensionsmatchthose

ofadjacentstructures

toensureconsistencywithexistingdevelopment.Suchwaivermayoccur

onlywhenpotablewaterandwastewatersystemsareapprovedbytheColumbiaCounty

DepartmentofHealth.



(2) Principaluses.SeeScheduleofUses,Table2.



(3) AccessoryBuildings.Anaccessorybuildingshallnotbelocatedintheminimumfront

yard

setback.Forcornerlots,astructureaccessorytoasingle‐familyoratwo‐familyresidentialuse

maybelocatedinafrontyard,oppositethesideyardasdeterminedbytheCodeEnforcement

Officerandshallhaveaminimumsetbackofnotlessthan20feetfromthefront

propertyline.

Anaccessorybuildingmaybelocatedwithintherequiredsideyardorrearyardsetback,

providedthatsuchaccessorybuildingshallbesetbacknotlessthanfivefeetfromanysideor

rearlotlineandshallbelocatednotlessthanfivefeetfromtheprincipal

structureunlessfire

ratedasperapplicableNewYorkStateBuildingCodes.However,forlotsinH1andH2inthe

KinderhookLakeareaasdefinedin§180‐13(H),setbacksmaybeestablishedtomatchthoseof

adjacentstructuresbutinnocaseshallaccessorybuildingsbeplacedcloser

thanfive(5)feet

fromthepropertyline.



(a) Anyaccessorystructureusedasasecondarydwellingshallnotexceedeither1.5timesthe

areaofthedwellings’mainflooror1,000squarefeet,whicheverisless.Accessory

apartmentsshallnotexceed30%ofthegrossfloorareaofthe

primarydwelling.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 129 

(4) BuildingFootprint.Withtheexceptionofmixed‐usestructures,nosinglebuildingshouldhavea

buildingfootprintexceeding5,000squarefeet.Exceptionsmaybemadeonlyifthefacadesof

largerbuildingsarearticula tedtoappearasmultiplebuildings, eachpartofwhichdoesnot

exceedamaximumbuilding

footprintof5,000squarefeet.



(5) DesignElements.

(a) Neworin‐fillconstructionshouldbedesignedsoastobecompatiblewiththegeneral

characterofbuildingsonthestreetfrontage.Thesetback,height,bulk,gableandpitchof

roofs,useofporches,shuttersandotherexteriordesignelements

shouldresultinanoverall

designthatcomplementstheexistingcharacterofthestreetscape.Theadaptivereuseof

existingstructuresisencouraged.

(b) Newbuildingsadjacenttoexistingstructuresshouldbedesignedinamannerconsistent

withthegeneralarchitecturalfeaturesofsuchexistingstructuresintermsofform,

materials,and

fenestrationandroofshape.Buildingfaçadesshouldprovidearchitectural

detail,andsuchdetail,includingeaves,columns,pilasters,cornices,windowsandwindow

surrounds,canopies,fascia,androofs,shouldbeproportionatewiththebuildingand

compatiblewithhistoricbuildingsintheTown.Thearchitecturalfeatures,materials,andthe

articulationofafaçade

ofabuildingshouldbecontinuedonallsidesvisiblefromapublic

street.

windowanddooropeningsthatisestablishedamongadjacentstructuresorispresentinthe

existingbuilding.

(d) Newbuildingsshouldhavea

roofshapesimilarinproportion,formandcharactertothat

whichispresentonthemajorityoftheexistingstructureshavingfrontageonthesame

corridor.Dead‐flatroofsaregenerallyinconsistentwiththeexisti ngcharacteroftheTown

andshouldbeavoided,exceptwherethesizeortypeof

thebuildingrequiresaflatroofand

facadevariationsandotherarchitecturalfeaturescandisguisetheflatnessoftheroof.

(e) Anylargebuildingfacadeandthesidesvisiblefromthetransportationcorridorshould

incorporatechangesinplaneandarchitecturalfeaturesthatgivetheappearanceofseveral

common‐wallbuildings.

(f)

Landscaping.Theincorporationofsmall,landscapedfrontyardsisencouragedwithanynew

residentialorcommercialuse(ifbuildingisnotbuilttothesidewalkedge).The

developmentofpublicparks,commons,orsmallpedestrianplazaswithamenitiessuchas

benchesandlandscapingareencouraged.Wherepracticable,existingtreerows

and

hedgerows,stonewalls,andsimilarfeaturesshould beretainedinthedevelopmentofany

newuseortheexpansionofanyexistinguse.

(g) StreetsandSidewalks.Allnewstreetsshallbedesignedtopermitthei nstallationof

electric,water,sewer,gasandotherutilitiesunderground, eitherinitiallyorat

thetime

majorimprovementsorupgradesaremadetothestreetortheparticularservice.Where

practicable,servicealleysfordeliveriesandutilityaccessshouldbeestablishedalongrear

propertylines.

(h) Theprimaryentrancestoanybuildingshouldbeorientedtothelotfrontage.Secondary

entrancesshouldbeoriented

toparking,plazasorparks.

(i) Cross‐easementsshouldbeusedtoprovidesharedaccesstoparkingwheneverpossible.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 130 

(j) Off‐streetparkinglotsandloadingareas,accessoryusestructuresorstorageotherthan

shedsshouldbescreenedfromwalkwaysandstreetsutilizinga ppropriatevegetationand/or

fencing.

(k) Reuseofexistingstructurestoallowfordevelopmentofmulti‐unitdwellingsormixeduses

withinthemshallbeallowedby

specialusepermitandshallcontainnomorethanfour

units.

(l) Cottageresidentialstyledevelopmentmaybeallowedwithamaximumoffourunitsper

buildingand12dwellingspercluster.

(m) Forsubdivisionscontaining over20homes,aminimumof30%openspacewillberequired.

Theopenspace

canbeusedforavillagegreen,pocketpark,playgroundand/orcommunity

garden.Offsitesepticandwatermaybeinstalledinanareadesignatedaspermanent‘open

space’suchasavillagegreenoropenfield.

(n) Forsubdivisionsofthreeunitsormore,varyrequiredlotsizesasfollows:

50%ofnewlots

shouldbe0.25acreinsize,25%oflotsshouldbe0.50acre,and25%shouldbe1.0acreif

waterandsepticareinstalledinanareaontheparceldesignatedaspermanent‘open

space’suchasavillagegreenoropenfield.

(o) Setbacksof

newstructuresinahamletdistrictshallmatchthoseofadjacentstructuresto

ensureconsistencywithexistingdevelopment.

(p) Allbuildingsshallfronttothestreet,unlessitisacottagedevelopmentinwhichcasethe

frontyardshallbetothesidecontainingthecommonopenspace.

(q) Zero

lotlinedwellingsmaybeapprovedwithnosidewindowswhendeemedappropriateto

provideforprivacybetweenbuildingsonsmalllots.

(r) Buildingsof40feetormoreinwidthshouldbevisuallydividedintosmallerincrementsto

reducetheirapparentsizeandcontributetoahuman‐scaledevel o pment.The

massofthese

buildingsshouldbede‐emphasizedinavarietyofwaysthrougharchitecturaldetailssuchas

divisionsorbreaksinmaterials,windowbays,separateentrancesandentrytreatments,

variationinrooflines,awnings,ortheuseofsectionsthatmayprojectorberecessedupto

10feet.



§180‐34.IndustrialDistrictDevelopmentStandards



A. Purposes:TopromoteensurethatindustrialusesasallowedasperTable2areconsistentwiththe

environmental,character,andqualityoflifegoalsasestablishedintheTownofChatham

ComprehensivePlan.



B. Applicability:ThesestandardsshallbeappliedtoalluseswithintheIndustrial(I)district.



C. Standards

(1) AllrequirementsofArticleVshallbemet.



(2) Maximumbuildingsizeshallbe40,000squarefeet.



(3) Maximumimpervioussurfacecoverageshallbe70percent.



(4) SetbacksshallbeasperTable1.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 131 

(5) MixedusestructureswithintheIndustrialDistrictshallbeallowedprovidedthatallusesareas

allowedperTable2.



(6) Adequateprovisionsshallbemadeforthecollectionandproperdisposalofallstormwater

fromthesiteinamannerwhichdoesnotpollutegroundwaterorstreamwater.





(7) Theproposeduseshallnotadverselyimpactthequantityofgroundwateravailabletopublicor

privatewatersupplywells.



(8) Adequatecontrolmeasuresthatprohibiton‐sitedisposalofsolidwaste,pathologicalwaste,or

processwaste,includingaqueous ‐carriedwaste shallbeprovidedfor.Theadequacyofthe

proposedcontrolmeasuresmustbeevaluatedbythePlanningBoardintermsoftheirreliability

andfeasibility,aswellasthedegreeofthreattogroundwaterintheeventthatthecontrol

measuresfailed.



(9) Allhand lingandstorageofsolidwaste,pathologicalormedicatewaste,petroleum,pesticides, 

herbicides,radioactive

material,hazardoussubstances,hazardouswaste,orprocesswaste

shallmeettheapplicablestandardsoffederalandNewYorkStatelawandtherulesand

regulationsoftheNewYorkStateDepartmentofEnvironmentalConservation.



(10) Theindustrialuseshallensurethatadequate,safeoff‐sitedisposalisprovidedfor.The

PlanningBoardmayrequireaspillresponseandcontainmentplantobeinplacetominimize

groundwaterorsurfacewatercontamination.



(11) ThePlanningBoardmayrequirealandscapebufferofaspecificwidth,orothervisualorsound

barrier(fence,wall,landscaping,orcombinationofsuchmaterials)tomitigate

adverseimpacts

thatcannotbeavoidedthroughbuildingorientation alone.



(12) Openstorageofgoodsormaterialsincidentaltotheprimaryactivityshallbescreenedfrom

anyadjacentpublicstreetbyasolid,decorative,masonrywall,orlandscapedbermandwall,

thedesignandheighttobeapprovedbythe

PlanningBoard.



(13) Loadingandunloadingareasandground‐mountedequipment,includingutility vaults,air

conditioners,fuelcontainers.etc.,thatarevisiblefromanyadjacentpublicstreetsshallbe

screenedbyasolid,decorativemasonr y wallorlandscapedbermandwallthathasaminimum

heightofeightfeetabove

theadjacentstreetgrade.



(14) Usesshallnotencroachintoanyrequiredsetbackarea.



(15) Allnoisestandardsshallbeincompliancewith180‐49.



(16) Nobarbedorconcertinawireshallbevisiblefromanyadjacentpublicstreet.



(17) ThehorizontalbuildingelevationfacingRoute295shallprovide

avarietyofarchitectural

featuressuchasbutnotlimitedtowindows,pedestrianentrances,buildingoffsets,projections,



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 132 

detailing,changeinmaterialsorsimilarfeaturesforaminimumof30percentofthehorizontal

buildingfacade.



(18) Outdoorstorageforsuchthingsastrashandmaterialsshallbepermittedonlywhenthe

storageareasaresuitablyscreenedwithasolidwallortightboardfenceandarelocated

at

least100feetfromanyadjacentresidentialuseandnotwithinanyrequiredfrontorstreetside

yard.ThelocationandscreeningofoutdoorstorageareasshallbeapprovedbythePlanning

Board.



(19) Allexteriorlightingfixtures,includingthosethatarepoleandbuildingmounted,shallusefully



shieldedluminaires.



§180‐35.FarmlandProtectionSitingStandards

A. RighttoFarmStatement:Farmers,aswellasthoseemployed,retained,orotherwiseauthorizedto

actonbehalfoffarmers,maylawfullyengageinagriculturalpracticeswithintheTownofChathamat

allsuchtimesandallsuchlocationsasarereasonablynecessarytoconductthebusiness ofagriculture.

For

anyagriculturalpractice,indeterminingthereasonablenessofthetime,place,andmethodology

of such practice, due weight and consideration shall be given to both traditional customs and

proceduresin the farming industryaswellas to advances resultingfromincreasedknowledge and

improvedte chnologies. Agriculturalpracticesconductedonfarmland

shallnotbefoundtobeapublic

or private nuisance if such agricultural practices are: 1. reasonable and necessary tothe particular

farmorfarmoperation,2.conductedinamannerwhichisnotnegligentorreckless,3.conductedin

conformitywithgenerallyacceptedandsoundagriculturalpractices,4.conducted

inconformitywith

alllocal,state,andfederallawsandregulations,5.conductedinamannerwhichdoesnotconstitute

athreattopublichealthandsafetyorcause injurytohealthorsafety ofanyperson,and6.conducted

inmannerwhichdoesnotunreasonablyobstructthefreepassage

oruseofnavigablewaters orpublic

roadways.

B. AllsubdivisionswithintheRL‐1andRL‐2Districtsshallbeplattedtopreservethemaximumamount

ofprime and statewide importantfarmland soils for continuedagricultural use. Duringsubdivision

review,andinsofaraspracticable,buildingenvelopesshallbeidentifie dand

locatedinamannerto

protectthemaximumamountofprimeandstatewideimportantfarmlandsoil sasfollows:



(1) Ontheleastfertilesoilsforagriculturalusesandinamannerwhichpermitsaccesstoactive

agriculturalland.Structuresshall,tothemaximumextentpracticable,avoidbeingplacedon

lands

definedbytheColumbiaCountySoilSurveyasbeingPrimeFarmlands,orSoilsof

StatewideImportance

0F

.



(2) Withinanywoodlandcontainedwithintheparcel,oralongthefaredgesofopenfieldsadjacent

toanywoodland,soastoreduceimpactonagriculturaloperationsandtoenablenew

constructiontobevisuallyabsorbedbynaturallandscapefeatures;



For mapped information derived from the Columbia County Soil Survey, review the Town of Chatham

Agricultural and Farmland Protection Plan.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 133 



(3) Tomaintainthelargestamountofcontiguousacreageforagriculturaluse;



(4) Withinwoodlands,oralongthefaredgesofopenagriculturalfieldsadjacenttoanywoodlandso

astoreduceencroachmentonagriculturalsoilsandareas;and



(5) Allnewnon‐farmdevelopmentshallbufferitselffrom

existingagriculturaluses.Itshallbethe

responsibilityofanon‐farmapplicant,subjecttoapprovalbythePlanningBoardortheZoning

BoardofAppeals,asthecasemaybe,toprovideaneffectivebufferthatwillreasonably

distanceandprotectadjacentnon‐farmandresidentiallivingareasfrom

agricultural

procedures.Buffersadjacenttoactivelyfarmedlandshallbeestablishedtoreducetheexposure

ofnon‐farmusestoodors,noise,andotherpotentialnuisancesassociatedwiththeagricultural

operationandtoprotecttheagriculturaloperationfrompotentialcomplaintsrelatedtosame.

Suchbuffersmayconsistofvegetativescreening,woodlands,

vegetatedberms,ornatural

topographicfeaturesandshallbenolessthanonehundred(100)feetinwidth.Buffersmaybe

requiredtobelargerdependinguponthetypeofagricultureorfarmuseadjacenttothe

nonfarmuse,thetopographyandtheproposeddesignand plantingofsuchbuffer.

ThePlanning

Boardmayallowforalternativemitigationifthe100‐footbufferisnotfeasibleduetolot

configuration,lotlayout,naturalfeatures,orothersimilarreasons.



(6) Whereverfeasible,retainandreuseexistingoldfarmroadsandlanesratherthanconstructing

newroadsordriveways.



(7) Locatenew

developmentsothattheflowofwatertofarmpropertiesisnotimpeded,andin

waysthatarecompatiblewithexistingfielddrainagepatterns.



 



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 134 

ARTICLEV,ProvisionsApplicabletoAllDistricts



§180‐36.AccessoryUses



A. AccessoryResidentialDwellingsinanAccessoryStructure.Oneaccessoryresidentialdwellingis

permittedperlot,subjecttothegrantingofaspecialusepermitbythePlanningBoardasstatedin

Table2,providedthatthefollowingstandardsaremet:

(1) Anaccessoryresidentialdwellinglocatedinanaccessory

structureshallbesubordinatetothe

natureofuseandsizeoftheprincipalresidenceonthelot.Thelotcannotbesubdivided such

thattheaccessoryresidentialdwellingandprincipalresidencearenolongeronthesamelot.



(2) Theaccessoryresidentialdwellingshallcomplywithallminimumyard

setbacksandmaximum

lotcoveragerequirementsasprovidedinthedistrictexceptintheH‐1districtasdefinedin§

180‐13(H)andasperTable1.



(3) Themaximumbuildingfootprintforaccessoryresidentialdwellings shallnotexceed1500ft

.



(4) Accessoryresidentialdwellingshallnotbeallowed onanyundersizedlots.



(5) Thespecialusepermitshallbeissuedtotheowneroftheprincipaldwellingandlot.



(6) Additionalspaceforparkingvehiclesshallberequiredforaccessoryresidentialdwelling.Ata

minimum,thereshallbe

oneadditionalspacerequiredforeachadditionalvehicletobeusedon

thelot,togetherwiththeprovisionofaturnaroundasrequiredinthisChapter.



(7) Theaccessorystructureshallbeconstructedandinstalledinaccordance withChapterBofthe

NewYorkStateUniformFirePreventionandBuilding

Code,theNewYorkStateEnergyCodeand

anyotherapplicablelaws,ordinancesand/orregulat ionsoftheTownofChatham.



(8) ColumbiaCountyDepartmentofHealthapprovedwatersuppliesandsanitarysystemsshallbe

requiredpriortograntingofanyzoningpermitforanaccessoryresidentialdwelling.The

accessoryresidential

dwellingmayshareacommonwelland/orsepticsystemwiththeprimary

dwellingprovidedthesystemhasadequatecapacitytoservebothdwellings.Ifaseparate

systemisnecessary,allotherstandards,setbacksandrequirementsofthisLawandofthe

CountyDepartmentofHealthshallbemet.Designandconstruction

ofanynewsepticsystem

shallbeapprovedbytheColumbia County DepartmentofHealth.



B. FarmWorkerHousing:AllhousingproposedforfarmworkersshallberequiredtoobtainPlanning

BoardapprovalpursuanttoModifiedSitePlanReviewpriortoapprovalofabuildingpermit.

Accessorystructuresforresidential

use,single‐widemanufacturedhomes,anddouble‐wide

manufacturedhomesmaybeusedforfarmworkerhousing,providedallbuildingcodeandthe

followingstandardsaremet:





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 135 

(1) Allmodular,double‐widemanufactured,andstick‐builthousingtobeerectedforfarmworker

housingshallbesitedsothatalldensity,frontageandsetbackregulationsoftheTownof

ChathamZoningLawshallbemetsothatafuturesubdivisionwouldresultinaconforminglot.



(2)

Single‐widemanufacturedhomesmaybeusedforfarmworkerhousingforactivefarm

operations.Suchstructuresmustmeetthefollowingsetbackrequirements:

(a) Suchstructuresshallcomplywiththeminimumyarddimensionsinthedistrictthefarmis

located.

(b) Suchstructuresshallbelocatedatleastfifty(50)

feetfromotherdwellingunitsor

agriculturalstructuresonthelot.



(3) FuturezoningchangesthatamendslotsizesshallnotpertaintothehousewithapprovedFarm

WorkerHousingunitslocatedontheparcel.Suchlot shallbe consideredanexistinglotof

record.



C. AccessoryResidentialDwellingwithin

PrincipalDwelling.Aspecialuseper mitshallberequiredfor

placementofanaccessoryresidentialdwellingwithinaprincipaldwellingwiththefollowingcriteria:



(1) Anyalterationstotheprincipaldwellingtoaccommodateanaccessoryresidentialdwellingshall

bedoneinamannerthatretainstheexistingresidentialcharacterof

theprincipaldwelling.



(2) Theexistingfoundationandfootprintoftheprincipaldwellingshallnotbeextendedto

accommodatetheaccessoryresidentialdwellingwithintheprincipaldwelling.



(3) Theaccessoryresidentialdwellingshallbeself‐containedwithintheprincipaldwellingunit.The

accessoryresidentialdwellingshallcontainseparatecooking,

sleepingandsanitaryfacilities

fromtheprincipaldwelling.



(4) Theaccessoryresidentialdwellingshallbesubordinatetotheprincipaldwelling.



(5) Theaccessoryresidentialdwellingwithinasingle‐familyprimarydwellingshallnotoccupymore

than40%ofthesquarefootageofthatsingle‐familydwelling.



(6) Theconversion

ofanyexistingsingle‐familyprimarydwellingtoaccommodateanaccessory

residentialdwellingislimitedtoone accessoryresidentialdwellingperprincipaldwelling.



(7) Thereshallbeataminimumtwoparkingspacesonthelot.Atleastoneparkingspaceshallbe

fortheprincipaldwellingandoneparking

spaceshallbefortheaccessoryresidentialdwelling.

Theparkingspacesshallnotencroachonanyrequiredyardorsetbackarea.



(8) ColumbiaCountyDepartmentofHealthapprovedwatersuppliesandsanitarysystemsshallbe

requiredpriortograntingofanyzoningpermitforanaccessoryresidentialdwelling.Such

systemsmaybeconnectedtoexistingorupgradedwatersupplyandsanitarysystemsofthe

single‐familydwelling.Ifaseparatesystemisnecessary,allotherstandards,setbacksand

requirementsofthisLawandoftheCountyDepartmentofHealthshallbemet.Designand



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 136 

constructionofanynewsepticsystemshallbeapprovedbytheColumbiaCounty Departmentof

Health.



D. AccessoryStructures

Exceptforaccessoryresidentialdwellingsandfarmworkerhousing,thefollo wingrequirementsshall

applytoallaccessorystructures:



(1) Inalldistricts,accessorystructuresshallnotexceed35feetin

height,exceptforagricultural

structureslocatedonafarmoperation.



(2) Accessorystructuresshallhaveaminimumyardsetbackoftwentyfeetfromanyproperty

boundarylineexceptintheH‐1districtasdefinedin§180‐13(H)andasperTable1.



(3) Anynumberofaccessory

structuresareallowedperparcelprovidedthatlotcoverage,all

setbacksandotherrequirementsaremet.



(4) Theaggregatefootprintareaofallcommercialaccessorystructuresshallnotexceed5,000SFin

floorarea.



(5) Exceptforhomeoccupations,accessorystructuresshallnotbeconstructedorestablishedprior

on

alotuntiltheprimarystructureiscompletedortheprimaryuseisestablished.Theremust

beaprimarystructureand/oruseinexistenceandcomplete d beforeanyconstructioncantake

placeforanAccessorystructure.Forhomeoccupationssee§180‐41.



(6) Exceptforagriculturalstructures,detachedaccessory

structuresshallbelocatedatleast35feet

fromtheprimarybuildingontheresidentiallottoensureemergencyvehicleaccess.



(7) Exceptforagriculturalstructures,noaccessorystructuremaybelocatedclosertothefronting

streetthantheprincipalstructure.



(8) Inthehamletdistricts,noaccessoryuseor

structure,includinggarages,sheds,swimmingpools

andtenniscourts,maybelocatedinthefrontyardofanyresidentiallot.Intheresidential

districts,accessoryusesorstructures,includinggarages,sheds,swimmingpoolsandtennis

courtsmaybelocatedinthefrontyardonlywhentheprincipaluseisset

backbeyondthe

minimumfrontyardsetback.Insuchcase,theaccessoryuseorstructureshallmeetatleastthe

minimumfrontyardsetbackrequirementforthatdis trict.Ar chitecturalfeatures,suchastrellis,

patio,awnings,andfencesmaybelocatedinthefrontyardofalot.



E. Abbreviated Site

PlanReviewforAccessoryStructures

(1) Theapplicantshallprovideseven(7)copiesofthefollowinginformationtothePlanningBoardat

leastten(10)dayspriortoaregularlyscheduledPlanningBoardmeetingforanabbreviatedsite

planreviewforanaccessorystructure.Asurveyedplanisnotrequired.





(a) Astatementandroughsketchshowingthelocationsanddimensionsofthebuildingenvelope

whichincludesprincipalandaccessorystructures,drivewaysandcurbcut.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 137 

(b) Adescriptionandroughsketchmapofexistingconditionsandgeneralanticipatedchangesin

theexistingtopography,naturalfeatures,andwhereapplicable,wetlands, streams,andflood

hazards.

(d) The distance from the property lines showing setbacks to the

accessory structure showing

compliancewiththatrequiredforthezoningdistrict.

(e) Thepercentofthetotallotareathatwillbecoveredinimpermeablesurfaces.

(f) WhetherthelocationoftheparcelisineithertheEPOD1orEPOD2overlaydistrict.



(2) PlanningBoardActiononAbbreviatedSite

Plan



(a) ThePlanningBoardshall,atthefirstregularlyscheduledmeetingheldaftersubmissionof

theabbreviatedsiteplanapplication,beginthereviewprocess.Incompleteapplications

shallbereturnedtotheapplicant,withoutprejudice,withaletterstatingapplication

deficiencies.Noabbreviatedsiteplan applicationshallbedeemedcomplete

untilthe

applicationform,feeassetbytheTownBoard,andsiteplaninformationdescribedinSub‐

Section180‐36(E)(1)havebeenacceptedbythePlanningBoard.



(b) Onceacompleteapplicationhasbeenreceived,thePlanningBoardshallconductits

abbreviatedreviewandrenderadecision

inonemeetingunlessanextendedtimeframeis

mutuallyagreeduponbetweenthePlanningBoardandapplicant.Iftheapplicationis

deemedcomplete,thePlanning Boardshallconductitsreviewandrenderadecisiononthe

abbreviatedsiteplanatthefirstregularlyscheduledmeetingheldaftersubmissionof

the

completeabbreviatedsiteplanapplicationtothePlanningBoard.ThePlanningBoard’s

actionshallbeintheformofamotionstatingwhethertheabbreviatedsiteplanis

approved,disapprovedorapprovedconditionallywithmodifications.Anymodification

requiredbythePlanningBoardshallbeconsideredaconditionforissuanceof

abuilding

permit.Iftheabbreviatedsiteplanisdisapproved,thePlanningBoard'sresolutionwill

containthereasonsforsuchfindings.Insuchacase,thePlanningBoardmayrecommend

furtherstudyofthesiteplanandresubmissiontothePlanningBoardafterithasbeen

revisedorredesigned.Applications

foranabbreviatedsiteplanreviewareexemptfrom

SEQRpursuanttoPart617.ThePlanningBoardmay,atitssolediscretion,holdapublic

hearing.



(c) FailureofthePlanningBoardtoactwithintheone‐meetingtimeperiodspecifiedorother

timeframeagreeduponbetweentheapplicantand

Board,shallconstitutePlanningBoard

approvalofthesiteplanassubmittedorlastamended,andshallbedeemedautomatic

approval.Anapplicant’sfailuretofollowthroughwithinthespe cifiedtimeperiodon

submittingapplicationrequirementsshallnotbeconsideredafailureofthePlanningBoard

andthusshallnot

bedeemedautomaticapproval.



(d) Approval.Uponapprovaloftheabbreviatedsiteplanandpaymentbytheapplicantofall

feesduetotheTown,thePlanningBoardshallendorseitsapprovalonacopyofthesite

planandshall,withinfive(5)businessdaysofitsdecision,submit

thistotheBuilding

Inspectorandapplicant.Uponapprovaloftheabbreviatedsiteplan,theapplicantshallbe

eligibleforapplyingforabuildingpermit.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 138 

(e) ApprovalwithModifications.ThePlanningBoardmayapprovetheabbreviatedsiteplanand

requirethatspecificmodificationsorconditionsbemade.



(f) Disapproval.IfthePlanningBoarddecidestonotapprovetheapplication,nobuilding

permitshallbeissuedwhenanabbreviatedsiteplanhasbeendisapproved.



(3)

CriteriaforAbbreviatedSitePlanReview

(a) Thebuildingenvelopeshallbesitedtopreservetothemaximumextentsignificantnatural,

ecological,cultural,andhistoricalfeaturesonthesite.Theseshallinclude,butarenot

limitedto,preservationofnaturalcontours,waterbodies,streamsideandstreamside

vegetatedbuffers,stateandfederally

regulatedwetlands,rare,threatenedorendangered

wildlifehabitatsasidentifiedbytheNewYorkStateDepartmentofEnvironmental

ConservationortheUnitedStatesDepartmentoftheInterior’sUSFishandWildlifeService,

andhistoriclocationsincludedontheStateandNationalHistoricRegister.

(b) Iftheparcelscontaindefinedridgelines

andsceniclocationsasidentifiedbytheTownof

ChathamEPOD1orEPOD2,structuresareencouragedtobeplacedinlocations leastlikely

toblockorinterruptscenicvistasorinamannersothatproposedbuildingsaresitedsothey

donotprotrudeabovetreetopsorcrestlines,

clear‐cuttingshouldbeavoidedandexisting

vegetationpreservedtothemaximumextentpracticable.



(c) Alldrivewaysandcurbcutsservingtheaccessorystructureshallbeconsistentwiththe

TownofChathamHighwaySpecifications.Nonegativeimpactsontheexistingstreetdueto

drainageorsightdistancesshalloccur.



(d)Theaccessorystructureshallpreserveexistingdrainagepatterns,protectsotherproperties

andpublicroadways,andmitiga tewaterqualityimpactstothegreatestextentpractical.



(e) Sitingofthebuildingenvelopeandconversionofagriculturallandtoresidentialuseshallbe

compatiblewithactiveagriculturalactivities.Whereactiveagriculturalactivitiesare

taking

place,structuresshall,tothemaximumextentpracticable,avoidbeingplacedonlands

definedbytheColumbia CountySoilSurveyasbeingPrimeFarmlands,orSoilsofStatewide

Importance.

§180‐37.Publicutilityuses,sitingandstructures.

A. Publicutility;definition.Apublicutilityshallbedeemedtoincludeanyuse,structureorfacility

havingthefollowingcharacteristics:

(1) Essentialnatureofservice.



(2) Operationunderafederalorstatefranchiseorpermitprovidingsomemeasureofpublic

regulation.

(3) Providingaproductthatmustbepiped,

wired,transmittedorotherwiseservedtoeachuser

withasupplytobemaintainedataconstantlevel.



(4) Userhasnoalternativesource,andsupplierhasnoalternativemeansofdelivery.



B. Publicutility;sitingapproval.Nopublicutilityuseorstructure,includingtelecommunicationtowers

andpublicutilitysolar

facilitiesmaybelocatedinanyzoningdistrictoftheTownofChatham



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 139 

withouttheperson,firmorentityproposingtooperate,use,constructorservicethesamefirst

obtainingaspecialpermitentitled"publicutilityspecialpermit" fr omtheTownPlanningBoard.In

reviewinganysuchapplication,thePlanningBoardshallapplythefollowingstandards:



(1) NewYorkStateEnvironmentalQualityReview

Act(SEQR).Theproposeduseorstructureshall

bedeemedtobeaTypeIaction,asdefinedintheNewYorkStateEnvironmentalQualityReview

Act(SEQR).



(2) Visibility.Allpublicutilityuses,orstructuresshallbelocatedandsitedsoastohavetheleast

possibleadversevisual

impactsonotherlandswithintheTownofChatham.Toproperlyreview

theseimpacts,theapplicantshallprepareandfileavisualenvironmentalassessmentform

addendumwithanyrequiredSEQRenvironmentalassessmentform.



(3) Publicnecessity.Theapplicantmustshowthattheuse,structureorfacilityisapublicnecessity;



thatitsproposedusefullifewillbe;thatthesameisrequiredinordertorendersafeand

adequateservice;and,thattherearecompellingreasons,economicorotherwise,whichmakeit

morefeasibletousetheproposedsiteorfacilitythantousealternativefacilitiesorsourcesof

the

sameservicethatmaybeprovidedbyotherfacilities.



C. Alternativesites.Inreviewinganapplicationtouseaparticularsite,thePlanningBoard’sreview

shallspecificallyincludeananalysisandevaluationofalternativesiteswhich wouldallowforthe

publicutilityservicetobeprovidessafelyandadequatelybut

wouldbelesslikelytocauseinjuryto

theenvironmentalresourcesofthecommunity, neighborhoodcharacter,anddisruptiontothe

goalsoftheTownComprehensivePlan.Thealternativesitereviewandanalysisshallinclude

specificinformationontheadvantagesanddisadvantagesoftheproposedsiteaswellasthe

alternativesite(s).





D. Shareduse.



(1) AsapublicpolicyoftheTownofChatham,theshareduseofexistingpublicutilitystructuresis

preferredtothesiting,locationandconstructionofadditionalnewfacilities.Itisthepublic

policyoftheTownofChathamtoavoidtheunnecessaryduplicationof

publicutilityusesand

structuresintheTown.Anapplicantshallberequiredtopresentadetailedinventorylocatingall

existingpublicutilitystructuresprovidingthesameservice,eitherwithintheTownofChatham

orreasonablyadjacentthereto,whichsaidstructuresmightadequatelyservetheneedsofthe

applicantifthe

applicantsharedtheuseofsuchfacilitywiththeexistingowner.



(2) Anapplicantrequestingpermissiontosharetheuseofanexistingpublicutilitystructureor

parcelwithintheTownofChathamshallberequiredtoprovidedocumentaryevidenceof

consentfromtheexistingowner,andthatsuchintensified

usewillnothaveadetrimentaleffect

onthepublichealth,safetyorotherutilityservicesalreadybeingprovided.Further,the

applicantshallprovideevidencethatanincreasedintensityofusewillnothaveasignificant

adverseimpactonthesurroundingneighborhood.



E. Setbacks.Allpublicutilitystructures(exceptingunderground

orburiedutilities)shallcomplywith

zoningsetbackregulationsintheaffectedzone.Inanyevent,astructureshallbesetbackadistance



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 140 

atleastequaltoitsheight.Additional setbacksmayberequiredbythePlanningBoardinorderto

provideforthepublicsafetyintheeventofanyfailureofthestructure.



F. LightingandUndergroundWiring.Nostructureshallbeartificiallylighted,exceptasrequiredbythe

PlanningBoard

orbyanystateorfederalagencyhavingjurisdictionoverthesiteoruse,including

butnotlimitedtotelecommunicationtowers.Structuresshallbeconstructedofsuchmaterialsand

paintedinsuchcolorssoastominimizetheirvisualimpacts.ThePlanningBoardshallhavethe

authoritytorequireunderground

wiringtoandfromthefacilitywhereappropriateinconsideration

ofthesiteconditions.



G. VegetationandLandscaping.Existingon‐sitevegetationshallbepreservedtothemaximumextent

possible.Therequirementofshrubortreeplantingstoscreentheuseand/orstructureshallbe

consideredaspartofthe

normalsiteplanreviewprocessbytheTownPlanningBoard.The

applicantshallberequiredtoprovidelandscapingatthesitetomitigatevisualimpactsandprovide

consistencywiththecharacterofthesurroundingcommunity.ThePlanningBoardmayalsorequire

amaintenanceplanforthelandscapingtoensurethatit

continuestoeffectivelyperformits

screeningfunctionforthelifeofthefacility.



H. Abandonment.



(1) Thetermsofanyapprovalforapublicutilityfacilityshallrequiretheapplicanttodepositwith

theTownanamountinescrowofasumofmoneysufficienttoremovethefacility.

Suchamount

shallbearrivedatbasedupontherecommendationoftheTown'sengineerandother

appropriateprofessionals,includingtheowner/operator'sengineer.Thetermsofapprovalof

thespecialusepermitshallrequiretheapplicanttoenterintoanescrowagreementwiththe

TownofChatham,thetermsofwhichshall

bereviewedandapprovedinadvancebythe

attorneyfortheTown,inwhichtheapplicantshallagreetoposttheescrowfundsrequiredby

thissectionofthelawandtoabidebythetermsofthissectionofthelaw.Escrowfundsshallbe

depositedinaseparate,

interestbearingaccountandshallnotbeutilizedforanypurpose

exceptasstatedherein.Theinterestearnedonsaidfundsmay,uponthewrittenrequestofthe

applicant,bereturnedtoapplicantonanannualbasis.Atanytime,thePlanningBoardmay

reviewthesufficiencyoftheamountin

escrowtocompletetheremovalofthefacility andmay

requireafurtheroradditionalamounttobedepositedintheeventadeterminationismade

thatsameisnecessarybasedupontherecommenda tionoftheTown'sengineerandother

appropriateprofessionalsincludingtheowner/operator'sengineer.TheTownshallnot

utilize

theescrowfundshereintoremovethefacilityunlesssamehasbeenabandonedasdefined

hereinandtheowner/operatororitssuccessorininteresthasfailedtoremovethefacilityafter

morethan30daysfollowingawrittendemandbytheTowntodoso.Theowner/operator

and/oritsaffiliate

shallbeliableforallapplicablepenaltiesandfinesindependentofany

amountremaininginescrowandrelatingtoanyobligation(s)whichariseregardingtheissuance

anduseofapublicutilityspecialpermitandsiteplanreviewapproval.



(2) NotwithstandinganyinconsistentprovisionoftheTownCode,inthe

eventthattheuseofa

publicutilityfacilityhasbeendiscontinuedforaperiodof120consecutivedaysormoreorthe

owner/operatornotifiestheTownofitsintentiontodiscontinueitsusethereof,thefacilityshall

bedeemedtobeabandoned.Iftherearetwoormoreoperators

orusersofafacility,thenthis



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 141 

provisionshallbecomeeffectiveonlywhenallusershavediscontinueduseofsaidfacility.The

CodeEnforcementOfficershallmakeaperiodic inspection ofthepremises,atleastannually,on

theanniversarydateofthegrantingofthepublicutilityspecialpermitherein.TheCode

EnforcementOfficershallmakea

determinationofthedateofabandonmentandshallrequest

documentationfromtheowneroroperatorofthefacilityregardingusagewithinfivedaysofthe

determinationofabandonment.



(a) Anypublicutilityspecialpermitorotherapprovals,permitsandcertificatesgrantedbythe

Townrelatedtothefacilityshallautomatically

expireonthedatethefacilityisdeemedto

beabandoned.

(b) Allpublicutilityspecialpermitsorotherapprovals,permitsandcertificatesgrantedbythe

TownrelatedtothefacilityshallbedeemedtoallowtheTownoritsrepresentativesentry

ontothepropertyforthepurposeofremovingthe

facilityuponreasonablenoticetothe

ownerofsuchpropertyfollowingtheabandonmentofsameandthecompletionofthe

processsetforthbelow.



(3) Within90daysafterthedeterminationofabandonmentbytheTownCodeEnforcementOfficer,

ortherevocationofapublicutilityspecialpermitorsite

planreviewapproval,thefacilityand

relatedstructuresshallberemovedbytheowneroroperatorandshallbeproperlydisposedof

inaccordancewithalllocal,stateandotherlawsandregulationsregardingsuchdisposal.



(a) Ifthefacilityisnotremovedwithinsaidninety‐dayperiod,aprocess

forremovalbythe

TownofChathamshallbecommencedattheowneroroperator'sexpense.

(b) Followingtheexpirationoftheninety‐dayperiod,theCodeEnforcementOfficer,withthe

approvalofthePlanningBoard,maynotifytheownerinwritingthatremovalmustbe

accomplishedwithin30days

ofsaidnotification.Thenotificationshallindicatethatfailure

toremovethefacilitywithin30daysshallresultintheremovalofsaidfacilitybytheTown 

ofChathamwiththecostthereoftobepaidwiththefundsdepositedinescrowwiththe

Town.AnycostincurredbytheTown

insuchremoval,notpaidundertheescrow,shall

constitutealienonthetaxlotonwhichthestructureissituatedandshallbecollectedinthe

samemannerasaTowntaxonrealproperty.



I. Applicationsfortelecommunicationstructuresshallcomplywiththerequirementsofthissection



andthoseofZoningLawSection180‐38.Intheeventofconflictbetweenthetwosections,the

provisionsof§180‐38shalltakeprecedencetocontroltheuseandsitingofcommunicationsor

broadcasttowersorfacilities.



J. TheTownBoardoftheTo wnofChathamherebyexpresslygrants

thePlanningBoardoftheTownof

Chathamtheauthoritytohear,reviewandgrantordenyapplicationswithinthejurisdictionofthe

TownofChathamwithregardtopublicutilitiesforthhereinafter,siteplanreviewandpublicutility

specialpermits.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 142 

§180‐38.Communicationorbroadcasttowersorfacilities.

Thedevelopmentofacommunicationorbroadcasttowerandfacilities andrelatedstructuresshallbe

permittedbyspecialusepermitsapprovalbythePlanningBoard.Acommunicationorbroadcasttower

andfacilityshallbesubjecttothefollowingsupplementaryrequirements:



A. Purpose.

(1)Thepurposeofthesesupplementaryrequirementsand

standardsistoregulatethedevelopment

ofcommunicationorbroadcasttowersandfacilitiesintheTownofChatham,consistentwith

thegeneralpurposesstatedintheTownCodeoftheTownofChatham,toaccommodatethe

necessaryinfrastructurefortheprovisionoftelecommunicationsservicesorothertypesof

broadcastwithinthe

Town,toaddressthevisual,aestheticandlandusecompatibilityaspectsof

telecommunicationsorbroadcastfacilities,towersandantennasandmorespecificallyto:



(a) MinimizethetotalnumberoftowersthroughouttheTown;

(b) Encouragetheco‐locationorshareduseofproposedandexistingtowersites;

locationoftowersandantennas,totheextentpossible,inareaswherethe

adverseimpactsonthecommunityareminimized;

(d) Encouragetheconfigurationorcamouflagingoftow ersandantennasinawaythat

minimizestheadversevisualimpactofthetowersandantennas;

(e) Enhancetheprovisionoftelecommunications

servicesandreceptionwithinthebordersof

theTownofChatham;and

(f) Wheneverpracticableinaccordancewiththerestrictionssetforthhereinbelow,maintain

thenumberoftower(s)peroverlayzoneatone.



(2)Thissectiondoesnotapplytocitizenband,shortwaveand/ortwo‐wayradioantennasfor

ordinaryresidentialorrecreationaluseandshallbeallowedpursuanttoFCCregulations.



B. Applicationproceduresandrequirements.



(1) TheproposeduseshallconformtothegeneralrequirementsandproceduresoftheTownCode

oftheTownofChathampertainingtoapprovalofspecialusesasstatedin§180‐30.

The

requiredapplicationforsiteplanreviewshallconformtotherequirementsandstandardsin

§180‐29regardingsiteplanreview.



(2) Whereanapplicationinvolvestheadditionorremovalofantennasorotherequipmentontoor

fromthesiteofanexistingcommunicationorbroadcasttowerandfacilities(or

towerfacility)by

thecurrentusersoroperatorsofsaidfacilities,suchapplicationmay,atthediscretionofthe

PlanningBoard,beconsideredexemptfromtherequirementsforapprovalofspecialuse

permitsandtherelatedsiteplanreview.Exemptionfromapprovalofspecialusepermitsand

therelatedsite

planreviewshallonlybegrantedforproposeddevelopmentthatcomplieswith

thecriteriabelowandshallbesubjecttoabuildingpermit:



(a) Theadditionofantennasorotherequipmentontoanexistingtowerfacilityshallbeexempt

wheresuchadditioninvolvestheinstallationofantennasorotherequipment

clearly

specifiedaspartoftheoriginalapprovalforthecommunicationorbroadcasttowerand

facilities,includingapprov edadditionalusers andcollocationofapprovedequipmentand



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 143 

includingapprovedaccessorystructures.Anexemptiongrantedunderthissubsectionneed

notcomplywiththecriteriainthesubsectionsbelow;

(b) Theadditionofantennas orotherequipmentontoanexistingtow erfacilityshallnotresult

inanyincreaseinthetotalheightofthestructure,asoriginallyapproved,including

the

heightofanyantennaprotrudingabovethetowerstructure;

shallnotresultinanyincreaseinthebulk(i.e.,volume)greaterthan5%overthetotalbulk

ofantennasorotherequipmentapprovedforinstallation

onsaidtowerinaccordancewith

theoriginalapprovalofsaidtowerfacility.Thebulkofexistingandproposedantennasshall

becalculatedinappropriatecubic(three‐dimensional) unitssuchascubicinchesorcubic

feetusingtheoutsidedim ensions; 

(d) Theremovalofantennasorotherequipmentfroman

existingtowerfacilityshallonlybe

permittedasanexemptionhereinwhereitresultsinnonetincreaseinthebulk(i.e.,

volume)ofthetotalbulkofantennasorotherequipmentapprov edforinstallationonsaid

toweraspertheoriginalapprovalofsaidtowerfacility.Theremovalofan

antennaunderan

exemptionhereinshallnotresultinanysignificantalterationoftheremainingantennasor

equipmentonthetowerstructure;and

(e) Theadditionofantennasorotherequip mentontoanexistingtower,under this exemption,

shallnotincludetheconstructionofanynewaccessorystructuressuchas

equipment

buildings,fencingorothersiteimprovementsunlesssuchaccessorystructuresor

improvementsareclearlyindicatedaspartoftheoriginalapprovalforthecommunication

orbroadcasttowerandfacilities.



C. Reimbursementofreviewcosts.Theapplicantshallberequiredtoestablishanescrowaccountto

reimbursetheTownof

Chathamforthelegitimatecostsofreviewassociatedwiththeuseof

professionalsqualifiedtoreviewtherequiredplans,reportsandothertechnicalinformation

submittedinsupportofanapplicationforacommunicationorbroadcasttowerandfacility.The

initialamountoftheestablishmentoftheescrowaccountshallbedetermined

onacase‐by‐case

basisas1%oftheestimatedoverallcosttoerecttheproposedtowerandfacilitybutinnocaseshall

belessthan$3,000oralargeramountestimatedbythePlanningBoardtobereasonableand

necessarytocoverthecostofthereview

tobeincurredbytheTown.Allnecessaryreviewing

professionalsassistingtheTowninsuchreviewsshallprovideanestimateoftheapproximatecost

ofreviewservices.TheTownshallsubmitanitemizedbilltotheapplicantatleastthirtydayspriorto

anydeductionofsuchamountbilledfromthe

escrowaccount.ThePlanningBoardmayperiodically

andatitsdiscretionrequirethereplenishmentoftheescrowaccountestablishedasperthis

Chapter.Uponcompletionoftheapplicationandreviewprocess,anybalanceremaininginthe

escrowaccountshallberefundedtotheapplicantwithin30daysofthesubmission

andpaymentof

thefinalbillbytheTownandpaymentinfullofallapplicationandapprovalfees.



D. Additionalapplicationinformation.Inadditiontothespecialusepermitin§180‐30andthesiteplan

reviewin§180‐29,applicationsfordevelopmentofcommunicationorbroadcasttowersand

facilitiesshallincludethefollowinginformation:



(1) Name(s),address(es)andtelephonenumbersofpersonspreparingsubmittedplans,reports

andinformation;





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 144 

(2) Name(s),address(es)andtelephonenumbersofthepropertyowner,operatorandapplicant

andtheirinvolvedaffiliates; 

(3) Name(s),address(es)andtelephonenumbersofownersofallpropertiesadjacenttothe

proposedsiteorwithinaone‐quarter‐mileradiusoftheproposedsite;



(4) Elevationsanddetailsofthe

proposedstructure,includingtheheight,width,depth,location

andconfigurationofguywiresorotheranchoringdevices,typeofmaterials,color(s),lighting,

thenumberandtypeofallproposedantennas,andreceivingandtransmittingequipmentand

otherrelevantinformationforallexistingandproposedstructures,equipment,parkingandall

other

relatedimprovements.Theelevationsanddetailsshallprovide,asappropriate,

informationaboutthefacilitiesofotherusersiftheapplicantisconsideringthecollocationof

additionalantennas,equipmentandotherfacilities,includingtherelationshipoftheheightof

thetowertothefeasibilityofcollocationofadditionalfacilities.Thespecialuse

permitandsite

planreviewapplicationsshallalsoincludeadescriptionoftheproposedcommunicationor

broadcasttowerandfacilityandsuchotherinformationthatthePlanningBoardrequires;



(5) Thespecialusepermitapplicationand/orsiteplanreviewshallindicatethelocationofthe

proposedaccesstothesite,

includingthelocationofaccesstoasuitablyimprovedroadway,the

length,width,grading,drainage,snowstorageareaanddrivewayprofileandproposedsurface

material(s)andtheenvironmentalimpactsthereof.Theproposedaccessshallbeusedonlyfor

thepurposesofconstruction,operation,maintenanceandrepairofthecommunicationor

broadcasttowerandfacilities.Anyproposedfenceorgaterelatedtotheaccessdrivewayshall

beshown,includingprovisionforpolice,fireoremergencyvehicleaccesstothesiteand

facilities;



(6) Anysubstantialoff‐siteimpacts;



(7) Visualanalysis.

(a) Avisualimpactanalysisorstudymayberequiredtofurtherassessthevisualimpactofa

proposedtowerfacility.Theconsiderationofalternativedesignsmayberequestedaspart

ofthevisualassessment,suchasflagpoletechnology(amonopolewithinternalantennas),a

camouflagedpoleandantennas,installationofantennasonexistingstructuresat

appropriatelocations,theuse

ofwhips(individualantennas)onutilitypolesandconnection

withafiberopticnetwork,ifavailable,orotherdesignsthatmayprovideforthemitigation

ofvisualimpacts.Inordertotakethenecessary"hardlook"asrequiredbytheState

EnvironmentalQualityReviewAct,theapplicantshallsubmitanyother

visualanalysisor

studydeemednecessarybythePlanningBoard.

(b) ThemethodologyforanyvisualanalysisshouldbeapprovedbythePlanningBoardandshall

addressimpactsonnearbyviewsheds,ridgelines,scenicfeaturesandhistoricsitesand

structuresidentifiedassignificant,aswellascompatibilitywithnearbylanduses

andany

otherresourcedeemedbythePlanningBoardasreasonablyrelevanttotheapplication.The

PlanningBoardmayconsidermethodologies,including,butnotlimitedto,thefollowing:

[1] Photographicsimulationorphotographicmontage,withandwithoutfoliage;

[2] Ademonstrationusingaballoonorthetopoftheactualstructure

onaprojectsite,

basedonthefollowingrequirements:



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 145 

[a] Balloontobeflownatactualheight.Alternatively,thetopportionofatower

structurewithallproposedantennasandrelatedstructuresattached,tobe

temporarilyheldupatactualheight(typicallybyacrane);

[b] Approximateactualcolor/finish;

[c] Balloonortopoftowertohavesamereflective

property;

[d] Balloontoapproximatebulkanddiameterofproposedtowerandrelatedstructures;

topoftowertoincludeallproposedantennasandrelatedstructures;

[e] Balloontobeflown,ortopoftowertobeheldup,foraminimumofeighthours,

thoughnotnecessarilyconsecutivelyandasdeemed

necessarybythePlanning

Board;and

[3] Regardlessofthemethodologyutilized,adequateadvancewrittennotificationtoall

landownerswithinaone‐quarter‐mileradiusoftheproposedsiteoftheballoontest

andpublicnoticepublishedinthenewspaperofrecordfortheTowninaccordancewith

theChatham

TownCode;



(8) Alandscape planshalldelineateexistingvegetationandwoodedareastoremainundisturbed,

specimentreesofsixinchesindiameteratbreastheight(6"dbh)orlarger,theheightofthe

surroundingtreeline,andshallidentifyvegetationtoberemoved,includingareastobekept

clear

bymowing,andthelocation,size,typeandnumberofallproposedplantings.

Additionally,anyotherimprovementssuchasfencesandwallsshallbeshown,includingthe

purposeofsuchimprovementsanddetails,elevations,materialsandcolorandanyother

informationrelatedtolandscapingimprovements,theirpurposeandappearance;



(9)

Astatementaboutsafetymeasuresrelatedtotheproject,suchasfencingtopreventaccessto

thetowerstructureandrelatedequipmentandlighting;



(10) Documentationsufficienttodemonstratethattheproposedtowerheightis theminimum

heightnecessarytoprovidelicensedcommunicationorbroadcastservicestolocationswithin

the

TownofChathamwhichtheapplicantisnotabletoservewithexistingfacilitiesinthe

projectsitearea.Additionally,documentationregardingheightshouldaddressanyvariationsin

heightnecessarytoaccommodatecollocationofantennasorotherequipmentbyotherusers

oroperators;



(11) Anaffidavitbytheapplicantregarding

whethertheconstructionofthefacilitywill

accommodatethecollocat ionofadditionalcommunicationantennasorfacilitiesforfuture

users,whentechnicallyandeconomicallyfeasible,mayberequired.Saidaffidavitshould

examinethefollowing:

(a) Whetherthenecessaryequipmentwouldexceedthestructuralcapacityofexistingor

proposedfacilities;or

(b) Whether

theapplicant,afteragood‐faitheffort,hasbeenabletoreachanagreementwith

theownerofanexistingfacility.



(12) AreportpreparedbyaNewYorkStatelicensedprofessionalengineerspecializinginstructural

engineeringaboutthestructuralintegrityoftheproposedcommunicationorbroadcasttower

andfacility.

Thereportshalldemonstratethestructure'scompliancewithapplicablestandards

andshalldescribethestructure'scapacity,includingthenumberandtypeofantennasitcan



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 146 

accommodate,usingillustrationsasnecessary.Inthecaseofantennasbeingmountedonan

existingstructure,theequivalentoftheabove‐requiredinformationshallbeprovidedabout

theexistingstructure;



(13) Report.

(a) Areport,certifiedbyaqualifiedNewYorklicensedprofessionalengineerorcounsel

admittedtopracticelaw

intheStateofNewYork,aboutthesafetyoftheradiofrequency

emissionsoftheproposedfacility,includingthefollowinginformation:

[1] EvidenceofFCClicense,franchisea nd/orpermittograntee/applicantortheiraffiliate 

(includinginformationregardingallrelatedpermittingstandardsandspecifications)and,

ifanaffiliate,thatthe

applicantisrecognizedbytheFCCasentitledtousethelicense,

franchiseand/orpermit;

[2] Certificationthattheproposedantenna(s)willnotcauseinterferencewithexisting

communicationdevices;and

[3] Certificationofcompliancewiththefollowing:

[a] Allcurrent,applicableFCCregulationsandstandards;

[b] NationalElectricalSafetyCode(NESC);



[c] NationalElectricalCode(NEC);

[d] Allcurrentstandardsofallfederalagencieswithauthoritytoregulate

telecommunicationsorbroadcasttowersandantennas;

[e] AllpertinentNewYorkStatebuildingcodesandfirepreventioncodes;and[f]All

localbuildingcodesandfirepreventioncodes.

(b)Theabovereportshall

becertifiedtobetrue,completeandaccurateandsubjectto

allapplicablepenalties.



(14) Coveragemapandreport.

(a) Amapwhichshowstheapplicant'sexistingandproposedareaofcoverage(propagation

map),includingalladjacenttowersusedoroperatedbytheapplicantoritsaffiliate(s) 

outsidetheTown

ofChatham.Themapshalllocateallexistingandproposedsitesinthe

Townandinborderingcommunitieswhichcontaincommunicationorbroadcasttowers,

orfacilitiesusedbytheoperator,ownerorapplicantorotheroperatorsandwhich

providecoverageintheTownofChatham.

(b) Adetailedreportshallaccompany

thecoveragemapwhichindicateswhytheproposed

communicationorbroadcasttowerandfacilityisnecessary.Thereportshallalso

identifylocationswithintheproposedprojectsiteserviceareawhicharenotandcould

notbeservedbyeitherexistingorproposed facilities(depictedinthemapofcoverage

and

existingfacilities),bycollocationorbyothertowerdesignoptions.



(15) Whenanapplicantproposestolocateadditionalantennas,antennaarraysorfacilitieson

existingtowersorsites(collocation),theapplicationmayincludei nformationfr omapreviously

approvedapplicationforthesamesiteorfacilitytoaddressapplic ation requirements.The

applicationmustprovideadditionalorupdatedinformationpertinenttothenewantennas,

antennaarraysorfacilitiesandmustaddressrelatedchangesinconditionsonornearthesite,

includingequipmentshelterplansandspecificationsheetsfortheantennaasrequestedbythe

PlanningBoard.Thesubmittalofmaterialsofpreviousapplications

doesnotexemptthe

applicationforcollocationfromanyoftheproceduralstepsinthereviewofaregular



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 147 

application,unlesssaidapplicationmeetsthecriteriaforanexemptionassetforthin§180‐38

and180‐23.



(16) Ifcollocationisnotproposed,anaffidavitstatingthatcollocationisnotpracticallyfeasible.The

PlanningBoardshallnotacceptgreaterfinancialcostaloneassufficientgroundsfornon‐

feasibility

ofcollocation.Evidencethatanalternativecontractorbusinessarrangementis

currentlyinuseintheindustrymaybeconsideredbythePlanningBoardthatsuchalternative

isfinanciallyfeasibleandthusavailabletotheapplicant.Saidaffidavit shallexaminethe

aspectsoffeasibilitynotedinSubsectionD(11)above.

Saidaffidavitmayalsoberequiredto

addressthefeasibilityofanyalternatedesignsthatarepresentedasmitigationmeasuresfor

potentialvisualimpactsoftheproposedtowerfacility.



(17) Inordertoassessthelong‐termeffectsofcommunicationorbroadcasttowerdevelopmenton

theTownofChathamand

areassurroundingtheproposedtowersite,thePlanningBoardmay

requirethepresentationofalong‐rangeconceptualplanforadditionalcommunicationor

broadcasttowerandfacilitydevelopmentbytheapplicant.Thelong‐range planshalladdress

thepossiblelocationofadditionaltowersites,therelatedserviceareacoverageandalternative



long‐rangeplanscenariosthatillustratethepotentialeffectsoftowerheightonthenumberof

towersintheservicearea.



(18) Ifanapplicantanticipatesthepotentialcollocationofantennasbyother usersonaproposed

newcommunicationtower,thesefacilitiesmaybepresentedintheapplication.Ifspecific

users

oroperators,otherthantheprincipalapplicant,arebeingidentifiedbytheapplicant,then

appropriatecertificationmustbesubmittedwiththeapplicationthattheapplicantis

authorizedbytheotherusers,orthattheotherusersareco‐applicants,toproperlyrepresent

suchotherusersintheapprovalof

theapplication.Allapplicationmaterials,plans,and

illustrationsmustclearlyidentifyadditionalusers'facilitiesandserviceareasasisrequiredfor

theprimaryapplicantorco‐applicant,asappropriate.



(19) IftheapplicationproposesanewcommunicationstowerinZoneT‐2orT‐3,theapplicantmust

provideevidence

intheformofaffidavitsandRFplotsoutliningthatthenewtoweris

necessarytoprovidereasonablecoverageintheTownofChathaminaccordancewiththe

standardsdelineatedintheFed eralTelecommunicationsAct.



E. Criteriaforapproval.Applicationsforanapprovalofaspecialusepermitandsite

planreviewfor

developmentofacommunicationorbroadcasttowerandfacilityshallmeetallofthefollowing

criteria:



(1) Thecollocation,orsharing,ofexistingtowerstructuresformountingofproposed

communicationsantenna(s)orequipmentshallberequiredupontheapplicationofnewtowers

and/orfacilities.Whenanew

towerstructureisproposed,theapplicantmustdemonstratethat

theproposedcommunicati on orbroadcastdevicesandequipmentcannotbeaccommodatedon

anexistingfacilitywithintheprojectarea,includingareaswithin theTownofChathamand

nearbyareasinadjacentmunicipalities.Whenanapplicantproposescollocationofaproposed

antenna(s)on

anexistingstructure,theapplicantmustde monstrate thattheexistingsitewillbe

properlyadaptedtotheplacementofadditionalantenna(s).AsrequiredbythePlanning Board,



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 148 

theapplicantshalladdressthecapacityofthesiteandstructureandnecessaryscreening,

landscaping,camouflagingandadditionalsafetymeasures.



(2) Height.

(a)Themaximumpermittedhei ghtofacommunicationtower,monopoleoranystructure

constructedforthepurposeoflocatingantennasortelecom municationsdevicesshallbea

maximumheightof

115feetforuptofiveusersoroperators.

(b) Theheightshallbemeasuredfromtheelevationoftheproposedfinishedgradeatthebase

ofthecommunicationorbroadcasttowerstructuretothetopofthetowerormonopole

structure,ortothetopofanyantennaor

equipmentinstalledabovethetopofthe

structure,includingthelightningrodwhichshallnotexceed120feet,whicheverishigher.

heightandbulkofacommunicationorbroadcasttowerormonopoleistheminimumheight



andbulknecessarytoprovideservicetomeettheapplicant'scommunicationneedswithin

theTown'sboundariesandthevisualoraestheticimpacthasbeenminimizedtothe

greatestextentpracticable.Notwithstandingtheabove,thePlanningBoardmay,inits

discretionandwheresameshallencouragecollocation,requirethattheheight

ofthetower

beincreased,uptothemaximumheightallowableherein.



(3) Aproposedcommunicationorbroadcasttowershallbeseparatedfromalltheboundary lines

onthelotonwhichitislocatedbyadistanceequal totheheightof thetowerorthedistanceof

the

correspondingminimumyardsetback(front,sideandrear)accordingtotherequirements

forthatzoneasstatedinthelotsize,densityandyarddimensionsoftheTownofChatham

TownCode,whicheverisgreater.Additionally,thebaseofanyguywireshallbesubjecttothe

normalsetbackrequirementsof

theunderlyingzoneinwhichtheproposedtoweris tobesited.



(4) Relatedbuildings.

(a) Allrelatedbuildingsshallconformtotheapplicableminimumfront,side andrearyard

setbackrequirementsassetforthintheTownofChathamCode.Theadditionalsetback

distance,equaltothetowerheight,

shallnotbeappliedtotherelatedbuildingsproposedto

houseequipment,andformaintenanceandoperationofthecommunicationorbroadcast

towerandfacility.However,therelatedbuildingsshallbelocatedsoastominimizevisibility

fromadjacentpropertiesand,thePlanningBoardsodirects,shallbelocatedin

therearof

thesite,andshallbeeffectivelyscreenedfromtheviewofthesite'sroadfrontage(s).

(b) Thetotalgrossfloorareaforanyrelatedbuildingsshallbetheminimumsizenecessaryfor

operationandshallnotexceed600squarefeetperoperatororuserwithfacilitieslocated

thesite.Operatorsandusersonsiteswithmorethanonesuchstructureshallsharesuch

structureswheneverpossibletominimizethenumberandtotalareaofsuchstructuresona

site.



(5) ThePlanningBoard,atitsdiscretion,mayrequirethatsecurityfencingbelocatedaroundeach

communicationor

broadcasttowerandfacilitiesorrelatedstructurestosecurethesite,

includingprovisionforaccesstothetowerfacilitythroughalockedgate.Ifrequired,saidfencing

shallbedesignedtominimizevisualandaestheticimpacts.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 149 

(6) Whenconsideringapplications,thePlanningBoardshalldeterminethevolumeoftheproposed 

antenna,thevolumeofanyfuturepossibleantennasandtheeffectandcumulativeeffect

thereof.



(7) ThePlanningBoardshallreviewandconsiderGISmaps,associatedinformationandimpacts

duringitsreviewofanyapplicationmade

asperthisChapter.



F. Designguidelines.Anappli cationfordevelopmentofacommunicationorbroadcasttowerand

facilitiesshallmeetthefollowingappli cabledesignguidelines:



(1) UnlessrequiredbytheFederalAviationAdministration(FAA)orotherfederal,stateorlocal

agency,thepaintingormarkingoftowersor

monopolesshallhaveafinishorcoloringthatwill

minimizevisualandaestheticimpactsandshallbevisuallyunobtrusivetothemaximumextent

practicable.



(2) UnlessrequiredbytheFederalAviationAdministration(FAA),orotherfederal,stateorlocal

agency,nosignals,lightsorilluminationshallbepermittedoncommunication

towers.Any

lightingnecessaryfortherelatedstructuresshallbeminimizedandshallbeproperlyshieldedto

preventglareontoadjacentproperties.Motion‐detection‐activatedlightingshallbeused

wheneverpracticable.



(3) Thebaseofthecommunicationorbroadcasttowerormonopoleandanyrelatedstructureshall

beeffectivelyscreened

usingprimarilyvegetativescreeningsuchasacontinuousevergreen

hedgeconsistingofnativetreesandshrubs.Clearingandsitedisturbanceshallbeminimized

andshallconformtoallpertinentTownregulationsandrequirements.Existingvegetationshall

bepreservedtothemaximumextentpracticable.Additionalplantings shallberequired,as

necessary,to

screenstructuresfromnearbypropertiesorimportantviewshedsorscenicareas.

Alllandscapingshallbeproperlymaintainedtoensuregoodhealthandviability.Thelandscaping

andscreeningmaintenanceassetforthaboveshallbetheresponsibilityoftheapplicant,its

successorininterest,anylesseeofthetowerandthe

landowner.



(4) Allcommunicationorbroadcasttowerfacilitiesshallbelocatedanddesignedtohavetheleast

possibleadversevisualandaestheticeffectontheenvironment.Alternativedesignsmaybe

considered,suchasflagpoletechnology(amonopolewithinternalantennas),acamouflaged

pole,installationofantennasonexistingstructuresat

appropriatelocations,theuseofwhips

(individualantennas)onutilitypoles,orotherdesignsthatmayprovideforthemitigationof

visualimpacts.Anyalternativedesignoptionconsideredshallbeconsistentwiththepurpose,

procedures,requirementsandstandardsofthesesupplementaryregulations.Concealedtowers

andshorttowersshallbeusedwhenever

feasibleandwheneverpossibleshallbesituatedoff

ridgelinesandwherethevisualimpactisleastdetrimentaltoscenicareasandresidential

properties.



(5) Signageshallbeprohibited oncommunicationorbroadcasttowerfacilitysitesexceptforone

identificationsignthatshallnotexceedtheminimalpermittingrequirementsanddesign



standardsin§180‐46oftheTownofChathamTownCode.Suchsignageshallincludenotification



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 150 

ofanyhazardousmaterials,gasolineorbatteriesstoredwithinthefacility.Exceptasspecifically

requiredbyafederal,stateorlocalagency,nosignshallbepermittedonatowerormonopole.



G. Additionalrequirements. 

(1) Thetermsofanyapprovalforacommunicationorbroadcasttowerandfacilitiesshall

require

theapplicanttodepositwiththeTownanamountinescrowofasumofmoneysufficientto

removethetower,antennaandassociatedfacilities.Suchamountshallbearrivedatbasedupon

therecommendationoftheTown's engineerandotherappropriateprofessionals,includingthe

owner/operator'sengineer.Saidfunds

shallbedepositedinaseparate,interestbearingaccount

andshallnotbeutilizedforanypurposeexceptasstatedherein.Theinterestearnedonsaid

fundsmay,uponthewrittenrequestoftheapplicant,bereturnedtoapplicantonanannual

basis.Atanytime,thePlanningBoardmayreview

thesufficiencyoftheamountinescrowto

completetheremovalofthetowerandfacilityandmayrequirea furtheroradditionalamount

tobedepositedintheeventadeterminationismadethatsameis necessarybaseduponthe

recommendationoftheTown'sengineerandotherappropriateprofessionals

includingthe

owner/operator'sengineer.TheTownshallnotutilizetheescrow fundshereintoremovethe

towerandfacilityunlesssamehasbeenabandonedasdefinedhereinandtheowner/operator

oritssuccessorininteresthasfailedtoremovethefacilityaftermorethan30daysfollowinga

writtendemandby

theTowntodoso.Theowner/operatorand/oritsaffiliateshallbeliablefor

allapplicablepenaltiesandfinesindependentofanyamountremaininginescrowandrelating

toanyobligation(s)whichariseregardingtheissuanceanduseofaspecialusepermitandsite

planreviewapproval.



(2) In

anyapprovalforacommunicationorbroadcasttowerandfacilities,thePlanningBoardshall

requireanirrevocablecommitmentfromtheownerofthetower,antennaandrelatedfacilities,

theownerofthelanduponwhichthetowerislocatedandanyandalllesseesandtheaffiliates

ofanyof

theabove,todefend, indemnify,andholdtheTownofChatham,itsboards,officials,

employeesandagents,freeandharmlessfromjudgmentsorcosts,includingreasonable

attorney’sfees,arisingdirectlyorindirectlyfromtheconstruction,use,operationand/or

removalofthetower,antennaandrelatedfacilitiesexceptastothosearising

fromtheTown's

ownnegligence.



H. Construction,operationandmaintenance.ThePlanningBoardmayrevokeanyspecialusepermit

and/orsiteplanreviewapprovalgrantedunderthissectionafterahearingintheeventany

conditionofthespecialusepermitorsiteplanapprovalisviolated ornotfulfille d.

ThePlanning

Boardshallprovidewrittennotificationtotheowner(s)ofthetower,antennaandanyrelated

facilitiesatleast10dayspriortosuchhearingsothattheymayhaveanopportunitytobeheard.If

atsuchhearingitshallbeshownbysubstantialevidencethatthetower,

antennaandrelated

facilitiesconstituteanuisanceorasafetyhazard,orthattheconditionsoftheapprovalhavebeen

materiallyviolated,thePlanningBoardmayrevokethespecialusepermitand/orsiteplanreview

approval.



I. Abandonment.



(1) NotwithstandinganyinconsistentprovisionoftheTownCode,intheevent

thattheuseofa

communicationorbroadcasttowerandfacilitieshas beendiscontinuedforaperiodof120



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 151 

consecutivedaysormoreortheowner/operatornotifiestheTownofitsintentionto

discontinueitsusethereof,thefacilityshallbedeemedtobeabandoned.Iftherearetwoor

moreoperatorsorusersofacommunicationorbroadcasttowerfacility,thenthisprovisionshall

becomeeffectiveonlywhen

allusershavediscontinueduseofsaidfacility.TheCode

EnforcementOfficershallmakeaperiodicinspectionofthepremises,atleastannually,onthe

anniversarydateofthegrantingofthespecialusepermitherein.TheCodeEnforcementOfficer

shallmakeadeterminationofthedateofabandonmentandshall

requestdocumentationfrom

theowneroroperatorofthefacilityregardingusagewithinfivedaysofthedeterminationof

abandonment.



(a) Anyspecialusepermitorotherapprovals,permitsandcertificatesgrantedbytheTown

relatedtothecommunicationorbroadcasttowerandfacilitiesshallautomaticallyexpireon

thedate

thefacilityisdeemedtobeabandoned.

(b) Allspecialusepermitsorotherapprovals,permitsandcertificatesgrantedbytheTown

relatedtothecommunicationorbroadcasttowerandfacilitiesshallbedeemedtoallowthe

Townoritsrepresentativesentryontothepropertyforthepurp oseofremoving

the

communicationandbroadcasttower facilityuponreasonablenoticetotheownerofsuch

propertyfollowingtheabandonmentofsameandthecompletionoftheprocesssetforth

below.



(2) Within90daysafterthedeterminationofabandonmentbytheTownCodeEnforcementOfficer,

ortherevocationofaspecial

usepermitorsiteplanreviewapproval,thetowerfacilityand

relatedstructuresshallberemovedbytheowneroroperatorandshallbeproperlydisposedof

inaccordancewithalllocal,stateandotherlawsandregulationsregardingsuchdisposal.



(a) Ifthetowerandrelatedstructuresarenot

removedwithinsaidninety‐day period,aprocess

forremovalbytheTownofChathamshallbecommencedattheowneroroperator's

expense.

(b) Followingtheexpirationoftheninety‐dayperiod,theCodeEnforcementOfficer,withthe

approvalofthePlanningBoard,maynotifytheownerinwritingthat

removalmustbe

accomplishedwithin30daysofsaidnotification.Thenotificationshallindicatethatfailure

toremovethetowerandrelatedstructureswithin30daysshallresultintheremovalofsaid

facilitiesbytheTownofChathamwiththecostthereoftobepaidwiththefundsdeposited

inescrowwiththeTown.AnycostincurredbytheTowninsuchremoval,notpaidunderthe

escrow,shallconstitutealienonthetaxlotonwhichthetowerissituatedandshallbe

collectedinthesamemannerasaTowntaxonrealproperty.



(3) The

applicantoritssuccessorininterestshallberequiredtofileacopyofanycertificationof

compliancewhichtheowner/operatorfileswiththeFCCrelatedtotheoperationofthe

communicationorbroadcasttowerandfacilitiesandcopiesofcomplaintswiththeTownClerk.



J. Alterationofanexisting

communicationtower,antennaorrelatedstructure.



(1) Alterationofanexistingcommunication orbroadcasttowerormonopole,antennaorany

relatedbuildingorotherstructureorimprovement,includingaplanforthecollocationof

facilities,whichresultsinachangeintheuseofsaidfacility,orachangein

thetype(s)of



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 152 

antenna(s),oranincreaseinthesize,heightorbulkoftheantenna(s)ortower,oranincreasein

thetypeorintensityoflighting,orreductionofanyoftheimprovementsrelatedtoscreeningof

thefacility,shallbepermittedonlyafterapplicationtothePlanningBoard.Theapplication

shall

bereviewedasifthealterationwereanewapplicationforaspecialusepermit,andanew

applicationforsiteplanreviewapproval,andmayincludeappendedmaterialsfromaprevious

approval.



(2) Theapplicationforalterationofanexistingcommunicationorbroadcasttowerandfacilities

maybe

exemptfromapplicationprocedures,provid ed thattheproposedalterationcomplies

withthestandardsasprovidedin§180‐23and180‐38.



K. Changeofidentityofparties.Intheeventthattheidentityofanypartytotheinitialorany

subsequentapplicationand/orpermitchangesortheirinterestin

theprojectisassigned,conveyed

ortransferred,theTownshallbenotifiedofallnewparties'names,addressesandtelephone

numberswithin120daysofsuchchange,assignment,conveyanceortransfer.



L. Theprovisionsofthissub‐sectionrelatedtotelecommunicationorbroadcasttowersshallnotapply

tonormalresidential

uses,suchasthelocationandsitingofutility,powerortelephone distribution

poles.



§180‐39.Small‐scalemines.

Anypersonwhoproposestheextractionofmorethan100cubicya rds andfew erthan1,000tonsor750

cubicyardsofmineralsfromtheearthwithin12successivecalendarmonthsmustobtaina“mining

specialpermit”fromthePlanningBoard,pursuanttotheprovisionssetforthherein,exceptfor

extractions

usedsolelyforfarm‐relatedactivitiesonafarmoperationorforusebytheTownforroad

maintenancepurposes.ThePlanningBoardmayonlyissuesuchaminingspecialpermitforapplications

withintheRL‐1,RL‐2,RL‐3andIZoneswithintheTown.Theapplicantmust

obtainsiteplanapproval

pursuanttotheTownofChathamTownCode.Theprovisionsof§§180‐24G,H,I,J,K,L,M,N,O,andP

shallbeapplicabletoallapplicationsforsmallscalemines.



A. Procedureforminingspecialpermitapplicationsforsmall‐scalemining.



(1)

TheapplicantshallsubmittothePlanningBoardSecretarythefollowingdocuments:

(a) Aminingplan,includingametesandboundsdescriptionoftheproposedareatobemined,

andaplanforaphasedreclamationoftheentireaffectedareashallbeconsideredpartof

reclamationrequirements anda

completedAgriculturalDataStatementandfarmswithin

500feetofprojectboundaries.

(b) Aplan,acceptabletothePlanning Board, forsafegua rdingthepublichealth,safetyand

welfareofsurroundingandnearbyresidentsduringextractionandrelatedactivities.



(2) TheTownshallnotbearcostsforoutsideconsultantreviews

deemednecessarybytheTown

pertainingtotheprojectorthepermittingprocess.PriortotheTownincurringanycosts

necessaryforitsdeliberationsandchargeabletotheapplicant,thePlanningBoardshalladvise

theapplicantofsaidcostsandobtain theapplicant'sagreementtobearsuchcostsandestablish

escrowaccounttofundsuchcosts.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 153 

(3) TheapplicantshallfurnishthePlanning Boardwithallinformationinhispossessionwhichmight

affectitsdecision.Inaddition,theapplicantshallberesponsibleforpromptlyprovidingthe

PlanningBoardwithanynewinformationorcircumstancessincethefilingdateofthe

application.



(4) Ifapproved,themining

specialpermitshallbeissuedbythePlanningBoardforathree‐year

period,subjecttoannualinspectionbythePlanningBoardoritsdesignee,andtorevocationfor

afindingofnoncompliancewithanyconditionofthepermit.



(5) Anypermit,whenissued,shallexplicitlystatealloperatingconditions

whicharenecessaryto

assurecompliancewiththissection,applicableTownandstatelaws,ordinances,regulations,

andoperationalproceduresdesigne d tominimizephysicalandaestheticdamagetothe

environment.



(6) Eachextractionsiteshallbegovernedbyanindividualpermit.Ifanoperatinggroupconducts

extractionoperationsatmorethan

onesiteintheTownofChatham,theconductatallsites

shallbeconsideredindeterminingtheprovisionsofeachminingspecialpermitandmaybe

groundsfordenialorrestrictionsofsuchpermit.Ifthecombinedextractionisgreaterthan

1000tons,theoperationcannotbeconsidereda

small‐scalemine.



B. Reviewofpermitsforsmall‐scalemines.



(1) ThePlanningBoardshallreviewallsmall‐scaleminingpermitapplicationsinaccordancewith

thestandardsforapprovalofaspecialusepermitunder§180‐30andthefollowingprovisions:

(a) Permitrenewalsmaybegrantedatthe

discretionofthePlanningBoardiftheactivityis

proceedinginaccordancewiththeprovisionsoftheinitialplan.Nomorethanonepermit

renewalshallbegranted.

(b) Allholdersofpermi tsshalladvisethePlanningBoardofanychangeoffactsandconditions

whichmightaffecttheirability

tooperateunderthepermit. 

entitiesdirectlyresponsibleforitsoperation,thenewowneroroperatorshallapplyfora

newpermit,indicatingontheapplicationanyexistingoranticipatedchangesfromthedata,

plans

and/orconditionssupportingorincludinginthepreviouspermit.

(d) EachsiteshallbeinspectedforcompliancebytheTownCodeEnforcementOfficerpriorto

anypermitrenewal.Awrittenreportofsuchinspectionanditsfindingsshallbemadetothe

PlanningBoard.Suchinspection(s)shallbefinancedby

afeesystemasestablishedbythe

TownBoard.

(e) Eachpermitshallcontainprovisionswhicheffectitssuspensionintheeventofafindingof

noncompliancewithanytermorconditionofoperation.Shouldthemineownerdiscover

toxicwastepreviouslydisposedontheproperty,theownershouldceaseoperation

and

notifytheTownCodeEnforcementOfficer.

(f) Eachpermitshallcontainprovisionswhichrequirethatallminingactivityshallbesetbackat

least200feetfromanypropertyline.

(g) Miningoperationsmayonlybeconductedbetweenthehoursof7:00a.m.and5:00p.m.,

MondaythroughFriday,

andbetweenthehoursof8:00a.m.and12:00noononSaturdays.

MiningoperationsmaynotoccuronanySundayorlegalholidaysassetbytheTownBoard.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 154 



C. Reclamationstandardsandrequirementsforsmall‐scalemines.Beforeissuingaminingspecial

permit,thePlanningBoardmustfindthatthereclamationplanmeetsthefollowingstandardsand

requirements:



(1) Reclamationshalloccuraftertheremovalof750yardsor1,000tonsofmineral,unlesstheTown

Planning

Boarddeterminesthatadifferentreclamationscheduleismoreappropriate.



(2) Allfinalsitedrainageshallbedesigned,sloped,revegetatedortreatedbyothermeasuresso

thatdrainagepatterns,includingvolumeandoutflowpoints,willbethesameasbeforethe

miningoccurred,unlessanalterationofpatternswouldimprove

drainageinthesurrounding

area.Measuresmustbespecifiedtopreventerosionandsedimentationofwetlands,

watercoursesandponds.ThePlanningBoardmayrequireahydrogeologicstudytobeprepared

todocumentthepre‐miningaquiferwaterqualityinordertoensurethatwaterqualityis

preservedduringandaftermining

operations.



(3) Noslopeshallbeleftwithagradesteeperthanonefootverticalonthreefeethorizontalfor

gravel,oritsnormalreposeslopeforotherminerals.



(4) Allrestorationmaterialusedinthefinalgradingofthesiteshallbefreefromrefuseortoxic

contaminants

andshallbecompactedasmuchasispractical,suchasbyinstalla tioninlayers.

Stumps,bouldersandnontoxic debrisgeneratedbytheminingoperationshallberemovedfrom

thesiteanddisposedoforburiedandcoveredwithaminimumoftwofeetofsoil.Alltoxic

debrisandwaste,

includingpetroleumproducts,shallberemovedfromtheminingsitefor

properdisposal.IfhazardouswasteisgeneratedasdefinedbyNYSDEC,disposalmustfollow

Stateguidelinesandregulations.



(5) Finalsoildepthsandtypesshallbeappropriatefortheexpectedreusespecifiedinthe

application.Subsoilandtopsoilshall

bere‐spreadovertheexcavatedareatoaminimumdepth

ofonefoot:sixinchesoftopsoilandsixinchesofsubsoil.Iftheoriginalsoildepthwaslessthan

onefoot,restorationshallbetoaminimumoftheoriginaldepth.



(6) Alltopsoilshallbestrippe dfrom

theactiveexcavationareaandstockpiledonsiteandseeded

foruseinaccordancewiththereclamationplan.Suchstockpilesshallbetreatedtominimizethe

effectsoferosionbywindorwateruponpublicroads,streamsoradjacentproperty.

(7) Revegetationofthesitetocontroldustanderosion

andtorestorethenaturalcharacteris

required.Theoperatorshallmaintainthevegetationfortwogrowingseasonstoensureviability.



D. Reclamationbondingforsmall‐scalemines.ThePlanningBoardshallrequirethepermitholderto

postabondinanamountatleastsufficienttocoverthecosts

ofthereclamationplan.



§180‐40.GarbageTrashBins.

Toensurethatemptygarbagetrashbinsdonotbecomeapublicsafetyissueforvehicles,bikesora

roadmaintenanceissueforhighwaydepartments,garbagetrashbinsshallbeplacedsecurelyoffthe

shoulderofthepublicroad.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 155 

§180‐41.Homeoccupations.



A. Therearethreelevelsofhomeoccupation–minor,intermediate,andmajorasdefinedinthislocal

law.Shorttermrentalsarealsoconsideredeitheraminororamajorhomeoccupationasdefinedin

thislocallaw.Homeoccupationsandshort‐termrentalhomeoccupationsarepermittedas

per

Table2(UseTable).



B. MinorHomeOccupations.MinorhomeoccupationsandtheClass2HomeOccupationShort‐term

rentalusearepermittedusesanddonotneedPlanningBoardapproval.Minorhomeoccupations

thatarenotshort‐termrentalsdonotneedapermitfromtheCEO.A

Class2HomeOccupation

Short‐termrentaluse,however,shallrequirecompliancewithallapplicableprovisionsofTable2

andSection180‐58(Z)ofthisZoningLaw.



C. IntermediatehomeoccupationsrequiresiteplanapprovalbythePlanningBoardandmustmeetall

requirementsofthissection.(No short‐

termrentalsareclassifiedasanintermediatehome

occupation.)IntermediatehomeoccupationsshallapplytotheCEOforsiteplanreviewandshall

alsoprovidemeetallpertinentrequirementsofthissection180‐41.



D. Majorhomeoccupationsandshort‐termrental/majorhomeoccupationsrequireaspecialuse

permitapproved

bythePlanningBoardandmustmeetallrequirementsofthisthissectionand180‐

58(Z).



E. RequirementsforAllHomeOccupations.Unlessexceptedbyotherprovisionsofthislaw,the

followingadditionalrequirementsshallbeapplicableforallhomeminor,intermediate,andmajor

occupations.Shorttermrental(minor

andmajor)shallmeetallrequirementsof180‐58(Z).The

applicantshallhavetheburdenofestablishing,byclearandconvincingproof,thattheproposed

homeoccupationwillcomplywithalloftheseitems.



(1) Allhomeoccupationsshalltakeplaceonlyinresidentialhomesthatareowner‐occupied,

as

thattermisdefinedherein,andtheownermustbeinresidenceandthehomeownerandthe

personoperatingthebusinessmustbeoneinthesame.



(2) Notmorethantwohomeoccupationsmayoccuronasingleresidentiallot.



(3) Ahomeoccupationshallnotcauseasignificanttrafficincreaseintheneighborhood.



(4) Screeningisrequirediftherearemorethantwovehiclesusedinconnectionwiththeoperation

ofthehomeoccupationonthepremises.However,thisdoesnotrefertoapassengervehicle

and/orpickuptruckusedbytheoccupantsfortheirpersonaluse.



(5) Forintermediateandmajorhomeoccupations,signsshallnotexceeddimensionsfoursquare

feetandmaybedouble‐sided.Itmaybelocatedintherequiredfrontyard,providedthatitis

setbackatleast15feetfromallpropertylinesandisnotmorethansixfeet

abovethenatural

groundlevelatitslocation.Thesignshallnotbelighted.Signsforminor hom eoccupationsare

limitedtoasmalldoororlawnplaquehavingamaximumsizeof1squarefoot.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 156 

(6) Retailsalesshallnotbepermittedonthepremisesexcept forsmall scalesalesofgoodsactually

producedonthepremisesorsmall‐scalesalesofgoodsincidentaltothemainserviceprovided.



(7) Theremaybenoexteriorstorageofmaterialsorexteriorvariationsfromtheresidential

characteroftheneighborhood.Generally,thedisplayofgoodsinthefrontyardofthepremises

shallnotbepermitted.However,theapplicantmayhaveasampledisplayofgoodsinthefront

yardwhere

theapplicantcandemonstratethatthiswillnothaveanadverseimpactonthe

residentialareaandthatsuchdisplaywillbemaintainedinaneatandorderlycondition.Goods

forretailsaleonlymaybedisplayedelsewhereonthepropertyifappropriatelycoveredbya

structureand/orscreenedbya

fenceornaturalvegetation,providedthatoutdoordisplayof

goodsdoesnotoccurwithin40feetofanadjoininglot.



(8) Theproposedhomeoccupationshallnotproduceanyunusualappearance, noise,vibration, 

smoke,dust,odors,heat,glareorelectricaldisturbancesthatwouldexceedthosenormally

producedbyaresidence.



(9) Storageuseanddisposalofhazardoussubstancesandpetroleumproductsmustmeet

applicablestateandfederalregulations.



(10) Anynewconstructionundertakentoaccommodatethehomeoccupationactivityshallbe

whollyconsistentwiththecharacterofaresidentialpremises.



(11) Theremaybenosharing,lettingorsublettingofspaceforusebyothersinconnectionwitha

homeoccupation.



(12) Thereshallbesufficientoff‐streetparkingtoavoidparkingcongestioninthepublicroadway

andinordertoadequatelyaccommodatetheanticipateduseofthepropertyinconnection

withsuchhomeoccupation.



(13) Anaccessorystructuremaybeconstructedforuseasahomeoccupationpriorto

establishmentofaprimaryresidenceontheparcelprovidedsuchprimaryresidenceisbuilt

withinthree(3)yearsofestablishmentoftheaccessorystructure.



F. RequirementsforIntermediateandMajorHomeOccupations.Accessorystructuresshall

beallowed

tobeusedforintermediateandmajorhomeoccupations.Inadditiontotherequirementsabove,

thefollowingshallalsoapplytoIntermediateandMajorHomeOccupations:



(1) Ahomeoccupationinaccessorystructuresshallotherwisecomplywiththedimensional

requirementsforaccessorystructuresintheapplicablezone.However,

theZoningBoardof

Appealsmaygrantanareavariancewithrespecttoanysetbackrequirement.



(2) Forintermediatehomeoccupations,nomorethantwopersons,andformajorhome

occupations,nomorethanfivepersonsotherthanmembersofthehouseholdoccupyingsuch

dwelling,shallbeemployedorcontracted

withandlocatedonthepremisesonadailybasison

theresidentialpremisesintheconductofallhomeoccupationsthereon.Theapplicantshall

havetherighttoappealtotheZoningBoardofAppealswhich,afterpublichearing,mayallow

morethanfive(5)personsinsuchcircumstances

wheretheZoningBoardofAppealshas



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 157 

determinedthattheuseoftheproperty,withsuchadditionalemployees,stillqualifiesasa

homeoccupationunderthedefinitionsandrequirementssetforthinthischapter.Shouldthe

ZoningBoardofAppealsdeterminethatmorethanfive(5)personsotherthanmembersofthe

householdmaybeemployedat

thepropertyintheconductofsuchhomeoccupation(s),the

ZoningBoardofAppealsshallsetthemaximumnumberofpersons,otherthanmembersofthe

householdoccupyingthedwelling,whomaybeemployedontheresidentialpremisesinsuch

circumstances.



(3) Allstorageofequipment,materials,goods,orsupplies

shallalsomeetallrequirementsforsuch

usepursuanttothislocallaw.Allexteriorstorageusedinconjunctionwithamajorhome

occupationshallbescreenedfromvieworstoredwithinstructuresandnotvisiblefromthe

publicwayoradjacentproperties.



(4) Adequateparkingshallbeprovidedfor

allhomeoccupants,employees,independent

contractorsandcustomerssoasnottocauseparkingcongestionoravisualdisturbancetothe

characteroftheneighborhood.



§180‐42.Off‐streetparking.



Off‐streetparkingspacesshallbeprovidedinaccordancewiththespecificationsinthissectioninany

districtwheneveranynewuseisestablished,orexistinguseisenlarged.Publicoff‐streetparkinginlieu

ofon‐siteparkingmaybeutilizedtofulfillparkingrequirementswhenprovidedforthis

purposewithina

distanceappropriatetotheproposeduse,butnotexceeding400feet,uponapprovalofthePlanning

Board.



Use      ParkingSpacesRequired 

Residential2perdwellingunit 

Churchandschool    1per3seatsinprin cipalassemblyroom

Privatecluborlodge   1per4

members 

Theater     1per4seats

Hospital,nursingandconvalescenthomes

Professionaloffices,businessservices

1per3bedsand1foreachemployeebasedonthe

expectedaverageemployeeoccupancy 

andmedical     1forevery250squarefeetofgross

clinics 

Retailbusinessesandpersonalservice

buildingfloor

area 

establishments1foreach180squarefeetofgrossbuildingfloorarea

Eatinganddrinkingestablishments  1forevery3seats 

Industrial 1foreach1.2employees,basedonthehighestexpected

averageemployeeoccupancy

Funeralhomes 1foreach75squarefeetoffloorspaceinslumber

rooms,

parlorsandindividualservicerooms

§180‐43.Off‐streetloading.

Off‐streetloadingshallbeconvenientlylocatedforbulkpickupsanddeliveries,scaledtodeliveryvehicle

sizeexpectedtobeused,andaccessiblebysuchvehiclesandcanbelogisticallyaccommodatedwhen



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 158 

requiredoff‐streetparkingspacesarefilled.Requiredoff‐streetloadingspaceisnottobeincludedas

off‐streetparkingspace.Off‐streetloadingshallbeprovided forallindustrialandcommercialuses.



§180‐44.RoadsandDriveways

AspertheTownofChathamComprehensivePlan,theTownrecognizestheimportantroleitsroadsplay

incontributingtowardstheruralcharacterofChatham.Assuch,minimizingimpactstoandchanges

alongTownruralroadsisacriticalgoaltobemetwhenevernewcommercialusesandmajor

subdivisionsare

developed.ThisgoalisreflectedintheUseTable(Table2)thatidentifiescertainuses

shallbeapprovedonlyiftheiraccessisfromaStateorCountyhighway.SomeusesidentifiedinTable2

areprohibitedfromTownroadsspecificallytolimitchangestotheruralroadandthe

characterofthe

area.Throughsiteplan,specialuseandsubdivisionregulations,thePlanningBoardisfurtherdirected

throughoutthislocallawandChapter170tominimizeallimpactsandchangestotheTownsruralroads.

Thisincludesbutisnotlimitedtominimizingoreliminatingalterationstoaroad’swidth,

grade,curve,

rightofway,roadsidevegetation,andsurfacetreatment(gravelorpavement).

Forspecifichighwaystandardsfornewroads,seeChapter164and170‐14and170‐15forRoad

Specifications.

§180‐45.RegulationofTimbering



180‐45.1.Findings.



TheTownofChathamrecognizesthatthetimberresourceintheTownisarenewableresourceof

significantvalueandmaybeharvested.TheTownalsorecognizesthatiftimberharvestingpractices are

poorlycarriedout,theycanresultinsignificantenvironmentalandaestheticdamagetothe

landandto

adjacentlandsandwaters.Itisthepurposeofthislocallawtoprotectthepublichealth,safetyand

welfareoftheresidentsoftheTownofChathambyregulatingtreeclearingandtimberharvesting,soas

topreventproblemsrelatedtoerosion,sedimentatio n,drainage,noise,dust

anddamagetolocal

roadwayswhilehonoringtheintentandtermsoftheRighttoPracticeForestryLawcontainedin

EnvironmentalConservationLawsections3‐0301and9‐0815.



180‐45.2.Statutoryauthority.

InaccordancewiththeprovisionsofArticle9oftheTownLawoftheStateofNew

York,theMunicipal

HomeRuleLawandSection96‐boftheGeneralMunicipalLaw,theTownBoardoftheTownof

Chathamhastheauthoritytoenactlocallawsforthepurposeofpromotingthehealth,safetyand

generalwelfareoftheTownofChatham,includingtheprotectionandpreservation

ofthepropertyofits

inhabitants,andtoprovidefortheprotectionandconservationoftreesandrelatedvegetation.



180‐45.3.Definitionsandwordusage.

A. Customarymeaning.Exceptwherespecificallydefinedherein,allwordsusedinthischaptershall

carrytheircustomarymeanings.Wordsusedinthepresenttense

includethefuture,andtheplural

includesthesingular.Theword"shall"isintendedtobemandatory.Aninfinitenumberofvariables

existinthefieldoftimberharvestingduetodifferencesinsoil,terrain,weather,typeoftimberand

ownershipobjectives.Therefore,theuseofsuchtermsas"where

possible,""should,""avoided,"

etc.,arerealisticunderstandingsoffieldconditions.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 159 

B. Definedphrases.Asusedinthischapter,thefollowingtermsshallhavethemeaningsindicated:



ACCESSROAD:Aroadwaynormallydesignedandintendedforusebymotorvehicleswhichprovides

accesstoorintoforestland.



APPLICANT:Anyindividualorindividuals,firm,partnership,association,corporation,company,

organizationor

otherlegalentityofanykind,includingmunicipalcorporations,governmentalagencies

orsubdivisionsthereof,whohasarequestforapermittoconductaregulatedactivitybeforetheCode

EnforcementOfficer.



BESTAVAILABLEFORESTMANAGEMENTPRACTICES:Thosepracticesrecommendedinamanual

entitled,NewYorkStateForestry,BMPFieldGuide,

BestManagementPracticesforWaterQuality,2011

Edition.AcopyisonfileintheTownBuildingDepartmentoffice.



BUFFERSTRIP:Anareaofvariablewidthandlengthinwhichforestpracticesarerestrictedinorderto

provideavisualscreenortoprotectwaterquality.



CLEARCUT:Aregeneration

ofharvestmethodthatremovesessentiallyalltreesinastand;provided,

thataclearcutmayormaynothavereservetreeslefttoattaingoalsotherthanregenerationdepen ding

onmanagementobjectives.



CLEARING:Anyactivitywhichremovesorsignificantlydisturbstrees,brush,grassoranyothertypeof

vegetation

inrelationtotimberoperations.



CODEENFORCEMENTOFFICERorCEO:TheofficerdesignatedbytheTownofChathamTownBoardand

chargedwiththeenforcementofzoning,buildingandfirecodes.



COMPLETEAPPLICATION:AnapplicationwhichhasbeendeclaredtobecompletebytheCEO.DATEOF

RECEIPTOF

COMPLETEAPPLICATION:AcompleteapplicationshallbedeemedreceivedbytheCode

EnforcementOfficerupon his/herreceiptofallitemssetforthin§6ofthislocallaw.



DRAINAGE:Thegravitationalmovementofwaterorotherliquidsbysurfacerunofforsurfaceflow.



EROSION:Thewearingawayoftheland

surfacebyactionofwind,water,gravityorothernaturalforces.



FORESTLAND:Areaorstandsoftrees,themajorityofwhicharegreaterthan12inches caliperor

maturetrees,coveringanareagreaterthan½acre.



HOMESITE:Thatportionofanylotorparceloflandcovered

ortobecoveredbyanystructure,including

butnotlimitedtobuildings,septicsystemsandtheirreserveareas,wells,poolsanddriveways.



LANDINGAREA:Aclearedareatowhichfelledtreesandlogsarehauledbyaskidderfortheirstorage

beforebeingtransferredtotrucks.



NYSDEC:NewYork

StateDepartmentofEnvironmentalConservation.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 160 



PERSON:Anyperson,firm,partnership,association,corporation,company,organizationorlegalentity

ofanykind,includinganypoliticalsubdivisionofthestate.



PROTECTEDSTREAM:AnystreamassodesignatedunderArticle15oftheEnvironmentalConservation

Law(ECL).



SEDIMENT:Solidmaterial,bothmineralandorganic,thatisinsuspension,

isbeingtransported,has

beendepositedorhasbeenremovedfromitssiteoforiginbyerosion.



SELECTIVECUTTING:Acuttingthatremovesonlyaportionoftreesinastand;provided,thatcutting

doneinaccordancewiththeselectionmethodisnotincludedinthisdefinition.



SKIDDER:A

machine,usedinmovinglogsfromthestumpsitetoalanding.



SKIDDING:Theactofmovinglogsfromthestumpsitetoalanding.



SKIDROAD(HAULROAD):Amainpathway,normallyintendedforrepeatedusebyaskiddertoreach

skidtrails,whereextensiveexposureofsoilscan

beexpectedfromheavytraffic.



SKIDTRAIL:Asecondarypathway,intendedforusebyaskiddertoreachtreesorgroupsoftreeswhich

havebeencut,whereextensiveexposureofsoilsisnotexpected.



SLASH:Thewoodymaterialordebrisresultingfromcuttingtreesandleftonthe

groundafteranareais

logged.



SLOPE:Landwithatopogr aphicgradient,usuallyexpressedaspercentslope,thepercentbeing

calculatedbymeasuringverticalelevationrelativetohorizontaldistance.Aslopeof25%meansa

twenty‐five‐footriseinelevationfromonepointtoanotheralongaone‐hundred‐

foothorizontalplane

(calculatedas:twenty‐five‐footrise/one‐hundred‐foothorizontaldistance=twenty‐five‐percentslope).



TIMBERHARVESTING:Thefellingoftreesforcommerciallumberorfirewoodproduction.



TOWNBOARD:ThedulyelectedTownBoardoftheTownofChatham.



TOWNCLERK:ThedulyelectedTownClerk

oftheTownofChatham.



TREE:Alargewoodyplant,usuallyhavingoneself‐supportingstemortrunkandnumerousbranches,

normallyexpectedtoattainheightsinexcessof20feetandhavingastumpdiameterofatleastfour

inches.



WATERBODY:Anynaturalorartificialpond,lake,reservoiror

otherareacontainingasurfaceareaof

over1,000squarefeetandwhichusuallyorintermittentlycontainswaterandhasadiscernible

shoreline.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 161 

WATERCOURSE:Anynaturalorartificial,permanentorintermittent,publicorprivatewaterbodyor

watersegment,suchasponds,lakes,reservoirs,rivers,streams,brooks,waterwaysornaturaldrainage

swales,thatiscontainedwithin,flowsthroughorbordersontheTownofChatham,exceptthosewhich

areregulatedbytheNYSDEC.



WETLAND:AnywetlandundertheregulatoryjurisdictionofNewYorkStateortheUnitedStatesandas

definedrespectivelyinthelawsandre gulationswhichgovernsuchwetlands.



180‐45.4.Applicability.

A. Timberharvestingshallnotbecommenceduntilapermithasbeenissuedundertheprovisionsof

thischapter.



B. Thefollowingactivitiesareexemptedfrompermitrequirements:



(1) Firewoodproductionforthepersonaluseofthelandownerortheimmediatefamilymembers

ofsuchlandowner;



(2) Firewoodproductionoflessthan1fullcord,peracre,annuallyforsalebythelandowner;



(3) Productionofsaw

lumberforthepersonaluseofthelandownerorhisimmediatefamily;



(4) Theclearingofhomesites,totheextentthattheclearingperhomesiteshallnotexceedanarea

ofmorethanoneacre,notincludingtheareaforuseasadriveway;



(5) Thecuttingofholidayor

celebrationtrees,whetherforpersonalorcommercialactivities;



(6) Projectscarriedonbyanyentitywhichshall bedeemedtobeapublicutilityunderNewYork

Statelaw;and



(7) ProjectscarriedoutpursuanttoNewYorkStateRealPropertyTaxLaw§480‐aandother

possiblefuture

foresttaxlawprogramsmadeavailablebytheStateofNewYork.

(8) AgriculturalusesasthattermisdefinedintheNYSAgricultureandMarketsLaw.



C. ClearCuttingisprohibitedwhenconductedwithoutavalidtimberharvestingpe rmitifrequired

hereunder,whenconductedinviolationofanyprovision

ofthisLocalLaworwhendonewithout

considerationforandindisregardoflegitimateforestmanagementpracticerecognizedbythe

SocietyofAmericanForesters.Clearcuttingmaybeusedforcertainforeststandconditionsand

timberorwildlifemanagementgoalsasrecognizedbytheSocietyofAmericanForestersbutshould



notbeusedtoharmtheenvironment.



180‐45.5. Conflictwithotherprovisions.

Wherethischapterimposesgreaterrestrictionsthanareimposedbytheprovisionofanyotherlaw,

ordinance,regulationorprivateagreement,thischaptershallcontrol.Wheregreaterrestrictionsare

imposedbyanyotherlaw,ordinance,regulationor

privateagreementthanareimposedbythischapter,

suchgreaterrestrictionsshallcontrol.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 162 

180‐45.6. Permitapplications.



A. Timberharvestingpermitapplication.



(1) Anypersonproposingtoconduct,orcausingtobeconducted,aregulatedactivityrequiringa

permitunderthislawshall fileanapplicationforapermitwiththeCodeEnforcementOfficer,

togetherwiththefilingfeeestablishedbyresolution

oftheTownBoard,andtogetherwithany

escrowdepositrequiredbytheCodeEnforcementOfficer.AllcostsincurredbytheTowninthe

reviewandapproval(includinginspection)ofthisapplicationshallbebornebytheapplicantas

providedbyStateLaworasprovidedbyTownCode.



(2) All

permitapplicationsmustincludethefollowing:



(a) Thename,addressandtelephonenumberoftheownerandofthepropertyowners

abuttingthelandtobetimbered. 

(b) Thestreetaddressandtaxmapdesignationoftheproperty.

application.

(d) Theestimate dnumberofacrestobeharvestedandtheestimatedvolumeofforest

productstobeharvested.

(e) Ageneraldescriptionoftheareainwhichtheforestpracticesareproposed.

(f) Mapsorsupportingdocumentsshowingthefollowing:

[1]Theareainwhichtheproposedforestpractices

aretooccur;[2]

Theboundariesoftheapplicant'sland.

(g) Theestimatedtimeforstart‐upandcompletion. 

(h) Aplantocloseoutskidtrails,roads,landingorothertemporaryimprovementsmustfollow

BestManagementProgramsasprovidedbytheNewYorkStateForestryBestManagement

Practicefor

WaterQualityFieldGuide.

(i) Proofofinsurance.Aninsurancepolicyshallbesubmittedwiththeapplicationlistingthe

TownofChathamasapartyinsuredinanamountsufficienttocoveranyanticipated

damages.

(j) Acopyof thesignedcontract(withfinancialtermsredacted)betweentheloggerandthe



propertyowner(s)whichdelineatesthemannerinwhichtheworkperformedshallbein

conformitywiththestandardsofthislocallawandBestManagementpractices.



(k) Forresidenti a lhomesiteclearingapplicationsnotexemptedinSection 4(4),theCEOshall

havethediscretion,insituationsinwhich

heorshedetermines,thatthereshallbede

minimusimpacttotheenvironmentandpublicproperty,towaivetherequirementsset

forthherein.

(l) AcknowledgementthatapplicantisresponsibleforitselforitsagentsunderHighwayLaw

Sections320and326relatingtotreble(triple)damagesfordamage

totownroads.

(m) ProofofmailingbycertifiedMailReturnReceiptRequestedofnoticeofapplicationtoall

adjoiningpropertyownerswhoownlandabuttingthelandtobetimbered.



B. Additionalinformation.Theapplicantmayberequiredtosubmitmoresupplementinformation

and/orplansfortheproposedsite

alterationsiftheoriginalapplicationprovidesinadequate

information.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 163 



C. Feesfortechnicalreview.TheCEOshallhavethepowertoretainsuchindependentconsultantsas

reasonablynecessaryinordertoprovideitwithinformationandguidanceregardinganyapplication

beforeitandwithdueregardofthescopeoftheprojectsothattheconsultantreviewdoesnot



renderforestmanagementimpracticalforsmallerprojects.Intheeventthatsuchconsultantsshall

berequiredwithregardtoaparticularapplication,theCEOshallnotifytheapplicantoftheamount

oftheactualexpensetobeincurred,andtheapplicantshall,priortoanyfurtherreviewofhis

application,

remittheentirecostofsaidconsultants'feestotheTown.Applicantshallbeprovided

withallinvoicesfromsaidconsultantbeforetheyarepaidbytheTown.

D. DutiesoftheCEO.



Duringhis/herreviewoftheapplication,theCEOshall:



(1) Determinethecompletenessoftheapplication.



(2) Approve,approvewithconditionsordenyapplications,inaccordancewiththischapter.Such

decisionshallbeinwritingandshallsetforththereasonsinsupportofthedecisionand,

furthermore,shallbefiledintheOfficetheCodeEnforcementOfficer.Applicantsaggrievedby

saiddecisionmayappealtothe

TownBoardwithin30daysofsaiddecision.Pursuanttoan

applicationapproval,apermitwillbeissuedbytheCodeEnforcementOfficer.



(3) TheCEOmay,inhis/herdiscretion,obtaintheassistanceand/orrecommendationofTown

Engineer,TownAttorneyorotherprofessionalsifnecessary,toreviewtheapplication.



E. Inactiveapplications.Applicationsmustbediligentlypursuedbytheapplicant.Shouldany

applicationbeforetheCEOremaininactiveforsixmonthswhileawaitingreceiptofinformationas

requestedbytheCodeEnfo rcementOfficer,theapplicationshallbeconsideredabandoned.The

CEOmayconsiderthegrantingofnomorethan

onesix‐monthextensionforthesubmittalofthe

requestedinformation.180‐45.7.Administrationofpermitapplications.



F. Timetoact.Within30daysofthedateofreceiptofacompleteapplicationfromtheCode

EnforcementOfficer,he/shemustapprove,approvewithconditionsordenyapplications,in

accordancewith

thischapter.Ininstanceswhenanescrowdepositisrequired,theapplicationwill

notbeconsideredcompleteuntiltherequiredescrowdepositisreceivedbytheCodeEnforcement

Officer.Ifnoactionistakenwithin30daysofreceipt,theapplicationshallbedeemedapproved.



G. Permitstandards.

(1) All

applicationsfortimberharvestingpermitsshalldemonstratecompliancewiththe

performancestandardsfortimberharvesting.Theapplicationsshouldalsotak eactions

necessarytocomplywiththeFederalCleanWaterActandprovide,whereapplicable,due

regardtothevoluntaryapplicableprovi sionscontainedinthemanualentitledNewYork State

Forestry,

BMPFieldGuide,BestManagementPracticesforWaterQuality,2011Edition,onfilein

theTownBuildingDepartmentoffice.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 164 

H. Permitconditions.



(1) Everypermitissuedpursuanttothischaptershallcontainthefollowinggeneralconditions:



(a) TheCodeEnforcementOfficerorHighwaySuperintendenthavetherighttoinspect

compliancewiththisLocalLawatanyreasonabletime,includingweekendsandholidays.

(b) Thepermitholdershallnotify

theCodeEnforcementOfficerofthedateonwhichproject

constructionistobeginatleast3daysinadvanceofsuchdate.

activitiesauthorizedbythepermit.Thesignshallbedisplayedatthe

pointwheretheaccess

roadmeetsthepublicroad.

(d) Allpermitsshallbevalidforaperioddictatedintheharvestingcontractorifnoneexistsfor

eighteen(18)months,subjecttorenew a l,butshallexpireuponcompletionoftheacts

specified.

(e) Operations,includingharvesting,cutting,millingorremoval

ofproductsoranyotheractivity

relatedtoharvestingshallnottakeplacebetweenthehoursof7:00p.m.and7:00a.m.orat

anytimeonSundaysorlegalholidaysunlesstheHighwaySuperintendentgrantsavariance

forgoodreasonshown.

(f) Whereaproposedcommercialloggingoperationis to

useordevelopanaccessontoaTow n

highway,suchproposalshallbereferredtotheTownHighwaySuperintendent,who shall

approvesuchaccess,subjecttothefollowingconditions:



1. Postingofsiteentranceandexitsigns.

2. NoskiddingoftimbershallbepermittedacrossunpavedTownhighwaysas

partof

theloggingoperationatanytimeunlessabondispostedinanamountsufficientto

repairanydamages.

3. TheTownhighwaysandditchesshallbeclearedofsubstantialdirt,mudand

vegetationdebristhatwouldinterferewithsaidhighwaysandditches.

4. Anoff‐streetparking

areaforloggingequipmentandothervehiclesshouldbe

locatedontheloggingsitetopreventdamageorthatinterfereswithsaidhighway.

Noloadingorunloadingontownhighwayisper mitte datanytimewithoutadvance

noticetothetownhighwaydepartment.

(2) Anypermitissuedpursuanttothischapter

mayalsobeissuedwithspecificconditions,beyond

thoselistedabove.SuchconditionsmaybeattachedbytheCEOasarenecessaryinorderto

assurecompliancewiththepolicyandprovisionsofthislaw.

(3) SiteCleanUp.Within50feetofthehighwaytopsshallbeloppedto

within3feetoftheground

andhunguporpartlyfallentreesshallbepulleddown.Noequipmentshallbeabandoned, nor

shallanyliquidorsolidwastebedumpedorotherwisedepositedonthesiteorintheTown.



C. Permitrenewal.Uponwrittenrequestoftheapplicant,

theCodeEnforcementOfficermayrenewa

permitforadditionaltimerequiredtocompletetheharvestingcontractperiod.Thefee forapermit

renewalwillbedeterminedbyresolutionoftheTownBoard.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 165 

180‐45.8.Financialguaranty.



A. Aftertheapprovaloftheapplicationandbeforetheissuanceofanypermit,theapplicantshallfile

withtheTownClerk(1)AcertifiedcheckinanamountsatisfactorytotheCEO,afterconsultation

withtheTownHighwaySuperintendentandtheapplicant,toprovidesecurity

forcompliancewith

thisapplicationor(2)Abondinsaidamountinlieuofsaidcheck.



B. Uponterminationofthepermitortheoperation,whichevermaycomefirst,theprojectshallbein

conformitywithboththeapprovedspecificrequirementsofthepermitandtheprovisionsofthis



chapter.Intheeventofamaterialdefaultofsuchandmaterialviolationofanyotherapplicable

laws,suchfinancialguaranty,inwholeorinpart,shallbekeptbytheTownuntiltheapplicant

makestherepairsoralterationstobringtheprojectintocompliance.TheTownshallreturn

tothe

applicantanyamountinexcessofthehardcostsofrestoration,administrationandorother

expensesincurredbytheTownasadirectresultoftheapplicant'sdefaultwithin60daysofthe

issuanceoftheCertificateofCompliance.



180‐45.9.Penaltiesforoffenses.

A. Reporting.Anyresident

oftheTownmayfileawrittencomplaintwiththeCodeEnforcementOfficer

allegingaviolationofthischapter.TheCodeEnforcementOfficershallfilesaidcomplaint,

investigatethesameandreportthereontotheTownBoard.



B. Punishment.Aviolationofanyoftheprovisionsofthischapterby

anowneroflandand/orabuilder

orcontractorshallconstituteanoffensepunishableeither:



(1) Bytheimpositionofafinenotexceeding$350orimprisonmentforaperiodnotexceedingsix

months,orboth,forconvictionofafirstoffense;foraconvictionofasecondoffense,both

of

whichwerecommittedwithinaperiodoffiveyears,byafineofnotlessthan$350normore

than$700,orimprisonmentforaperiodnotexceedingsixmonths,orboth;and,forconviction

ofathirdorsubsequentoffense,allofwhichwerecommittedwithinaperiodof

fiveyears,bya

fineofnotlessthan$700normorethan$1,000,orimprisonmentforaperiodnotexceedingsix

months,orboth;or



(2) Bytheimpositionofacivilpenaltyintheaboveamounts,whichsaidpenaltymaybeassessed

andrecoverableagainsttheviolatorin

asmallclaimsproceedinginstitutedbytheTowninthe

TownJusticeCourt,pursuanttotheprovisionsofArticle18oftheUniformJusticeCourtAct.



(3) Eachweek'scontinuedviolationshallconstituteaseparate,additionalviolationforwhich

separateandadditionalfinesorcivilpenaltiesintheaboveamounts

maybeimposedor

recovered.

C. Injunctions.TheTownmaybringanactionforaninjunctioninaddi tiontotheabovepenalties

herein.



180‐45.10.Compliancewithotherstandards.

Alldevelopmentandimprovementallowedby rightorallowedbypermitshallalsoconformtoallrules

andregulationscontainedin

theCodeoftheTownofChathamandallotherapplicablestateandfederal

lawsandregulations.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 166 

§180‐46.Signs.

Signsasdefinedin§180‐9shallmeetthefollowingstandardsandprovisions.Table3detailssign

regulationsbydistrictandshallbeconsideredinadditiontothestandardsof1809‐46(A–M).Nosign

shallbeerectedwithoutapprovalfromthePlanningBoardif

asiteplanorspecialusepermitapprovalis

required,orbytheCodeEnforcementOfficerifnot,exceptthoselistedinsub‐section180‐46(A),

below.



Anapplicantshallseeksignpermitapprovalinconjunctionwithaspecialuse,modifiedsiteplanorsite

planapprovalapplicationand

noseparatesignapplicationshallberequired.Ifnositeplanorspecialuse

permitapprovalisrequired,signsshallbepermittedandapprove dbytheCodeEnforcementOfficer

priortoissuanceofbuildingpermits.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 167 

Table3.SignStandardsbyDistrict(AlldimensionsareMaximumSize),Signsnotlistedareprohibited(2)

TypeofSign H‐1 H‐2 RL‐1 RL‐2 RL‐3 B I

Homeoccupationsign,

on‐premise

4sf

Bulletinboardassociated

withpublic,museum,

library,school,religious

ormunicipaluse,on

premise

24sf

Temporarysignson

premise

24sf

Temporarysigns,on‐site

forarchitect,engineer,or

contractorwhen

constructionorrepairis

inprogress

12sf

Freestandingsign

associatedwitha

commercialuse,on

premise

1per

premise

(1)

1per

premise

(1)

1per

premise

1per

premise

1per

premise

1per

premise

1per

premise

BuildingMounted,Wall

orProjectingSign

associatedwitha

commercialuseon

premise

1per

business

per

Premise

1per

business

per

Premise

1per

business

per

Premise

1per

business

per

Premise

1per

business

per

Premise

1per

business

per

Premise

1per

business

per

Premise

Signheightfor

freestandingsign

8ft 8ft 10ft 10ft 10ft 10ft 12ft

Signsizeforbuilding

mountedsign

See180‐46(C)(6)



Hangingperpendicular 12sf

Parallel&flattobuilding 16sf 16sf 24sf 24sf 24sf 24sf 24sf

AwningandCanopy Allowedwithsix‐inchlettersonvalance

WindowSign Nomorethan20%oflengthoffaçadeareaorwithamaximumof12sf,

whicheverisless.

BusinessComplexwhere

morethan1business

sharesabuildingor

access

24sf

(1) CommercialusesinH‐1andH‐2thatareinbuildingswithlessthana15‐footfrontsetbackshallnot

haveafreestandingsign.



(2) Roofmountedsignsandbillboardsareprohibitedinalllocations.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 168 

A. SignsExemptfromRequiringPlanning BoardApproval:

(1) Signsonesquarefootorlessinareaandbearingonlypropertynumbers,postboxnumbers,

namesofoccupantsofpremisesorotheridentificationofpremisesnothavingcommercial

connotations.



(2) Flagsandinsigniaofanygovernment.



(3) Flagsdepictingthe‘open’or‘closed’statusofabusiness.



(4) Legalnotices,identification,informationalordirectionalsignserected orrequiredby

governmentalbodies.



(5) Integraldecorativeorarchitecturalfeaturespartofbuildings,exceptmovingparts ormoving

lights.



(6)

On‐premisesignsdirectingandguidingtrafficandparkingonprivateproperty.



(7) Signswhichmarkpropertyboundaries,trespassingsigns,orwarningorhazardsigns(2sfper

side).



(8) Forsaleorrentalsigns,maximum6squarefeetpersideandlocatedon‐premises.



(9) Temporaryoff‐site

signsortemporarysignslocatedinaroadright‐waysuchbutnotlimitedto

garagesales,non‐recurringevents,funddrives,politicaladvertising,realestate,constructio n,

oreventsundertakenbyapolitical,religious,charitableoreducationalorganizationplacedfor

nomorethan30days,toberemovedwithin7

daysaftertheeventorelection,andwitha

maximumof24sfperside.Temporarysignserectedbyandformunicipalusesmaybeallowed

tobeinplaceformorethan30days.Temporarysignsoutoftherightofwayandonprivate

propertymaybeplacedindefinitely.



(10) Temporary/seasonalsignsassociatedwithroadsidestands.



B. Anypersonofferinglotsforsaleinasubdivisionmayerectnon‐illuminate d, directionalsignswithin

thelimitsofthesubdivision,oradjoiningpropertyinthesameownership,havinganaggregatetotal

faceareaofnotmorethan50squarefeet.The

PlanningBoardshallapprovesuchsignatthetimeof

thesubdivisionapproval.Thepermitforsuchsignsshallbeissuedforaperiodofoneyear,each

followingadeterminationbytheCodeEnforcementOfficerthatthesignshavebeenrepaintedor

areingoodconditionineachcase.



C. Abusinesssignshallbepermittedinconnectionwithanylegalbusinessorindustrylocatedonthe

premises,andmeetingthefollowingrequirements:



(1) Amaximumoftwosignsarepermittedwithanylegallyestablishedbusiness,onefreestanding

andtheotherattachedtothebuilding.ThePlanningBoardmay

requirethatafreestanding

signbeplacedwithinalandscapedbase .



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 169 



(2) Signsshallnotextendabovetherooforparapetofthebuilding.



(3) Illuminatedsignsshallbeshieldedinsuchawayastoproducenoglare,unduedistraction,

confusionorhazardtothesurroundingareaortovehiculartraffic.Illuminationshallbeproperly

focuseduponorfrom

withinthesignitself.



(4) Signswithilluminationarepermittedwithaspecialusepermit.Illuminatedsignsshalluseonly

exteriorlighting.



(5) Signsshallnotprojectoverpublicrights‐of‐wayorpropertylines.



(6) Themaximumareaofabuildingmountedsignshallbeequaltothe

lengthofthebuildingfront

facademeasuredinfeetmultipliedbyonefoot,butinnocaseshallthesignareaexceed10 %of

thebuildingfaceareaor24squarefeet,whicheverissmaller.



(7) Signsoncanopiesmaybepermittedasoneoftheon‐sitesignsand

ifsuchsigncomplieswith

thesizeandlightingrequirementsofthissection.



(8) Anysignassociatedwithacommercialshort‐termrental,includingaBedandBreakfast,shall

requireapprovalbytheCodeEnforcementOfficerpriortoplacementofsuchsign.



D. Anysignwhichbecomesindisrepairmay

beremoveduponorderoftheTownBoardifnotrepaired

after30days’notice.Anynewsignmustconformtoallregulations.



E. Permanentoff‐premisesignsonCountyandTownroadsarepermittedformunicipalusesonly.



F. Nosignshallcreateatrafficorpedestrianhazard

byreasonofitsshape,methodanddirectionof

illuminationoflocation.Nosignshallhaveanymoveablepartsorflashinglights,exceptthose

placedbythemunicipalityforemergencyorinformationalreasons.Nosignshallbeplacedonutility

poles.



G. Signsshallnotattemptorappeartoregulate,

warnorresembleofficialtrafficsigns,signalsor

devices.



H. Signsshouldbeasubordinatepartofthestreetscape.Signsshallbearchitecturallycompatiblewith

thestyle,composition,colors, materials,anddetails ofthebuildingandshouldreflectthevisual

characteroftheirsurroundings.



I. Thesizeofthesign

shallbetheminimumessentialforlegibility.Signsshouldconveyaminimumof

informationinordertoavoidclutter.



J. Wheneverfeasible,mul tiplesignsshouldbecom binedintoonetoavoidclutter.Aprincipalbuilding

withmorethanonetenantispermittedamulti‐businessdirectorysignthatisno

largerthan24

squarefeetasthefreestandingsignforthepremises.Eachindividualbusinessinthemulti‐business



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 170 

buildingwillbeallowedonesigntomarktheirindividualentrancethatisnolargerthanfoursquare

feet.



K. Auselocatedinacornerbuildingispermittedtohaveonesignforeachlotfrontage.Businesses

withserviceentrancesmayidentifysuchentranceswithonesignthatdoes

notexceedfoursquare

feet.



L. Allsignsmustbeconstructedofdurablematerialsandshallbemaintainedingoodconditionand

repairatalltimes.



M. Anewbusiness,orabusinessinanewlocation,awaitinginstallationofapermanentsign,mayusea

portablesignfor

aperiodofnotmorethan60daysoruntilinstallationofapermanentsign,

whicheveroccursfirst.SuchportablesignmustmeetalltherequirementsofthisLaw.





§180‐47.Offensiveuse.

A. Anynon‐agriculturaluse,includingapermitteduse,thatmaybeoffensiveorinjuriousbyreasonof

production,emissionofodor,dust,smoke,refusematter,fumes,noise,vibration,dischargeof

water,electromagneticinterference,heat,fire/explosions,traffic,parkingorsimilarconditions,or

thatisdangeroustothecomfort,peace,enjoyment,health

orsafetyofadjacentlandowners,the

communityorlendingtoitsdisturbanceorannoyance,isprohibited.



B. Outdoorli ghting shallbesoshieldedtopreventtheli ghtsourcebeingvisibleoffsiteorotherwise

constituteoffensiveglare.



§180‐48.Airpollutionandfirecontrols.

A. ItshallbeunlawfulwithintheTownofChathamforanyperson,owner,agent,operator,firmor

corporationtopermit,causeorallowthedischarge,ofemissionsorreleasesintotheatmosphere

fromanysourceoractivityinsuchplace,manner,durationorconcentrationastoconstitute

atmosphericpollutionor

whichareinjurioustohuman,plantoranimallifeorproperty,orwhich

unreasonablyinterfereswiththecomfortable enjoymentoflifeorproperty.Thisappliestothe

releaseorcreationofsoot,flyash,dust,cinders,dirt,oxides,gases,vapors,odors,toxicor

radioactivesubstances,waste,particulate,solid,liquid,gaseous

matteroranyotherdeleterious 

emissions,eitheraloneorincombinationwithothers.



B. Fireandsafetyhazards.Onlybuildingswhichareinco nformitywiththeNewYorkStateUniformFire

PreventionandBuildingCodearepermitted.



§180‐49.Noise.

A. Unreasonablenoiseprohibited.Itshallbeunlawfulforanypersontomake,continue,causetobe

madeorpermittobemadeanyunreasonablenoiseasdefinedinthissectionwithinthe

geographicalboundariesoftheTownofChatham,excludingtheVillageofChathamorwithinthose

areasoverwhich

theTownhasjurisdiction.Thedeterminationastotheexistenceofunreasonable

noiseshallbedeterminedwhennoisemeasuremen tsexceedanyofthelimitationsasestablishedin

thissectionorwhenaspecificactdefinedashavingunreasonablenoiseistakingplace.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 171 

B.Exemptsounds

(1) Soundsgeneratedbychurchbellsorchimes;

(2) Soundsgeneratedbyanygovernmentagencyusingpublicwarningdevicesincludingbutnot

limitedtoemergencyvehicles,personnelandactivities,hospitals,stateandmunicipal

maintenanceandrepairactivities,anya ctivitiesofthearmedforces;

(3) Soundsconnectedwith

sportingeventsofanypublicorprivateschoolorpark,oran

authorizedcarnival,fair,exhibition,parade,etc.oranyeventsoauthorizedspecificallyby

specialpermitoftheTown,County,StateorFederalgovernment;

(4) Soundscreatedbyagriculturalactivitiesoroperations,including,butnotlimitedtocrop

cultivation,production,

harvestingandlivestockproduction,providedequipmentgenerating 

thenoiseisinproperworkingorder;

(5) Soundscreatedbyanykindofsnowremovalequipmentin good workingorder.

(6) Soundscreatedbygeneratorsandpowerequipmentinemergencysituationsingood

workingorder.

(7) Soundscreatedbylawnmowersor

otherhomepowertoolsonresidentialparcels.

(8) Soundscreatedbycommerciallawnmowersorcommercialpowertoolsandhome

occupationsbetweenthehoursof7:00a.m.and9:00p.m.MondaythroughSaturdayand

12:00p.m.and9:00p.m.Sundays.

(9) Soundfromlawenforcementvehicles,personnelandactivities.

(10)Sound

fromtrains.

(11)Soundfrompermittedfireworksdisplays.

(12)Soundsassociatedwithhunts,includingtheuseofdogsandlegallyconductedhunting.

(13)Homeownerprocessingwoodforpersonalhomeuseforheating.

(14)Soundsrelatedtotreeremoval,car eand forestmanagem ent.

(15)Soundsrelatedtouseofantiqueequipment

includinghitandmissengines.

(16)Soundsrelatedtoapersonalfiringrange.



C. Specificactsconstitutingunreasonablenoise.Unreasonablenoisesarethosethatexceedninety(90)

decibelsormoreasmeasuredatthepropertyline,foraperiodinexcessofone(1)hour,inany

octaveband.The

followingactsandthecausesthereofaredeclaredtobeinviolationofthischap ter

andtoconstituteunreasonablenoise:

(1) Theuseofanysound‐reproductiondevicewhetherinsideoroutsideastructure,inavehicle

orwatervesseloronprivatepropertyorapublicright‐ofwayor

publicspaceatanytime

withintheresidentialareasorwithinthecommercialareaswhich,bycausingnoise,annoys

ordisturbsthequiet,comfortorreposeofareasonablepersonofnormalsensitivities.This

provisionshallnotbeconstruedtoprohibitpublicperformancesbeingconducted in

accordancewiththeprovisions

ofaspecialpermitgrantedbytheTown.

(2) Anyimpulsivenoisewhichoccursrepeatedlyoverthecourseofonehourormoreandwhich

ismeasuredinexcessof7590dBAatthepropertyline.

(3) Theperformanceorengagementincommercialconstructionwork,building, excavating,

homeoccupations,hoisting,grading,demolishing,dredgingorpneumatichammeringwithin

thelimitsofthetownbetweenthehoursof9:00p.m.and7:00a.m.Mondaythrough

SundaySaturday(night)orbetween9:00p.m.Saturdayand12:00p.m.Sunday,exceptfor



emergencyworkofapublicnature,serviceutilitiesorasotherwiseprovidedherein.

(4) Thesoundingofanyhorn,securityalarm,sirenorotherauditorysignalingdeviceinany

vehicle,vessel,engine,machineorstationaryboilerforperiodoftimelongerthanfive(5)

minutes,exceptasrequiredbylawor

toprovideawarningsignalduringusethereof.This



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 172 

provisionshallnotbeconstruedtoprohibittheuseandoperationofanaudiblesignal

deviceinanauthorizedemergencyvehicle.

(5) Thedischargeintotheair,excludingantiqueequipmentandhitormissengines,ofthe

exhaustofanysteamengine,stationary,internalcombustionengineormotorvehicle

engine,

exceptthroughamufflerorotherdevice,whichwilleffectivelypreventloudor

explosivenoisestherefrom.

(6) Nopersonshalloperateorpermittobeoperatedanyrecreationalvehicle,all‐terrain

vehicle,dirtbike,gocart,snowmobileoffapublichighway,orwatercraftatanytime,atany

speedor

underanyconditionofgrade,load,accelerationordecelerationorinanymanner

whatsoeverastoexceedninety(90)dBA.Thislimitshallapplyatadistanceoffifty(50)feet

fromsuchvehicle.



D. Methodsofmeasurement.Noisemeasurementsshallbemadewithasound‐levelmeterand

compatible

octavebandanalyzermanufacturedaccordingtothespecificationofincompliancewith

ANSItheAmericanNationalStandardsInstituteS1.4‐1983,orlatestversionthereof,oranyother

meterdevice(s)approvedbytheTow n.USAStandardSpecificationforGeneralPurposeSoundLevel

Meters(51.4‐1971)andPreferredCenterFrequenciesforAcoustical

Measurements(51.6‐1960)or

anysubsequentnationallyadoptedstandardsupersedingtheabovestandards.Unreasonablenoise

emanatingfromprivatepropertyshallbemeasuredordeterminedattheadjoiningpropertyline.



E. Landlord’sLiability. Violationsofthischaptershallbetheactoftheowneroftheresidentialdwelling

unit,orcommercial

property,eveniftheownerdoesnotresideintheunitnorisemployedatthe

site,aswellasthepersonsonthepremiseswhoviolatethischapter.Theownerwillonlybeliable

forthoseviolationsoccurringafterreceiptofwrittennoticefromtheCodeEnforcementOfficer,

CountySheriff’s

DepartmentorNewYorkStatePoliceofaviolationofthischapter.Proofofthe

commencementofanevictionproceedingagainsttheallegedviolator(s)shallbeadefensetoa

landlordliabilityhereinunder.



F.Enforcement



(1) TheCodeEnforcementOfficer,CountySheriff’sDepartmentorNewYorkStatePoliceshall

enforce

thischapter.



§180‐50.Trailersandmobilehomes.

Nomobilehomeshallbe locatedintheTownofChatham,exceptasauthorizedbytheTable2“Tableof

PermittedUsesinAllDistricts”at§180‐15(H)oftheZoningLawandChapter151oftheChathamTown

Code,entitled“MobileHomes.Manufacturedhomes,asdefinedinthis

chapter,arepermissibleasa

single‐familyresidenceandasper§180‐36,and§180‐53.



§180‐51.Storageandparkingofmobilehomes,cars,boats,trailersandtrucksandsimilar.

Cars,trucks,mobilehomes,boats,campingtrailersandsimilarthatareownedbythehomeowner

shallbeallowedtobeparkedintheareabetweenthefrontoftheprin cipalstructureonthe

premisesandtheminimumfrontyardfrontyardsetback.Cars,trucks,mobilehomes,boats,

campingtrailersandsimilar

thatareownedbythehomeownershallbeallowedtobestoredinthe

areabetweenthefrontoftheprincipalstructureonthepremisesandtheminimumfrontyard

setbackonlyifnootherareaisavailableonthepremisesinthesideorrearyards.Nojunkvehicles



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 173 

shallbeplacedinanyportionofafrontyard.Thereshallbenoparkingorstorageinthearea

includedintheminimumfrontyardsetback.Seealso§180‐58.

§180‐52.Agriculturaluses.

Agriculturalusesshallcomplywiththefollowingrequirements:



A. Farmbuildings,otherthanadwelling,shallbesetbackatleast100feetfromtheboundarylineof

anyneighboringproperty.However,inboththeHamlet‐One(H‐1)andHamlet‐Two(H‐2)zones,

respectively,suchfarmbuildingsshall

besetbackatleast45feetfromtheboundarylineofany

neighboringproperty,providedthebuildingdoesnotstorematerialthatcausesodorsinwhichcase

thefarmbuildingshallbesetbackatleast100feetfromtheborder.



B. Feedlots,fencedruns,andmanurestorage

facilities,(excludingpastures,meadows,and

paddocks)shallbesetbackatleast100feetfromtheboundarylineofanyneighboringproperty,

andfromanystreambankunlesstheareausedforsuchpurposeisdeemedanacceptablefarm

practicebytheCEOorbytheNewYorkStateDepartmentofAgriculture

andMarkets.



C. Temporaryroadsidestandsforsaleofagriculturalproductsshallbepermittedif:

(1) Theyaresetbackatleasttwenty(20)feetfrompublicrightofway;



(2) Parkingspacesaresetbackatleasttwenty(20)feetfromthepublicrightofway;



(3) Signs

shallconformtoprovisions setforthin§180‐46.



§180‐53.TemporaryLivingStructures.

Temporarylivingstructures,includingmobileormanufacturedhomesusedinconjunctionwith

constructionworkshallbepermittedbytheCEOonlyduringtheperiodthattheconstructionworkisin

progress.Permitsfortemporarystructuresshallbeissuedforatwelve‐monthperiod.Residingin

basementorfoundationstructuresbeforethe

completionofthetotalstructureshallnotbeallowedfor

aperiodlongerthanoneyear,unlessanextensionoftimeisgrantedbythePlanningBoard,whichshall

utilizethegeneralstandardsofreviewandapprovalforspecialusepermitswhenconsideringan

extension.Onlyonesuchextensionshall

begranted.



§180‐54.Gradingpermits.

A. Theextractionofmineralsoffsiteoflessthan100cubicyardswithin12consecutivemonthsshall

requireagradingpermitissuedbytheTownCodeEnforcementOfficer.Agradingpermitshallalso

berequiredforthemovingoftopsoil,sand,earthand/orgravelfromoneportionofapremis es

to

anotherportionofthesamepremisesasanincidenttoconstructionofabuildingorother

improvementtolandorlandscapingwheregreaterthanoneacreoflandisdisturbed.Applicants

shallalsocomplywithDECstormwaterregulations.Forresidentialconstruction thatdisturbsone

acreormore,aNotice

ofIntent(NOI)mustbefiledandanerosionandsedimentcontrol planmust

beprepared.Forresidentialdevelopmentthatdisturbsfiveacresormore,theNOImustbefiled

andastormwaterpollutionpreventionplan(SWPPP)mustbepreparedasperDECrequirements.

CommercialdevelopmentsmustfiletheNOIand

prepareaSWPPPwhenmorethanoneacreis

disturbed.Theapplicantshallfileagradingplanwithtopographicalmap(s)oftheareaonwhichthe

extractionorredistributionshallbeconducted,demonstratingsuchtopographicalconditionsasis



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 174 

expected,bothbeforeworkiscommencedandaftertheworkiscompleted,showingcontour

elevationsatintervalsofheightsoftwofeetandsuchotherinformationasmayberequiredbythe

TownCodeEnforcementOfficer.



B. TheTownCodeEnforcementOfficershallbeauthorizedtoissueagradingpermit

fortheremovalof

notmorethan100cubicyardsofexcavatedminerals.Separatepermitsforasinglelotshallnottotal

morethan100cubicyardswithinanyten‐yearperiod.Noexcavationofsoil,naturalproductsor

rockshalladverselyaffectnaturaldrainageorthestructuralstabilityor

safetyofadjoiningbuildings

orlands.Excavationsshallnotcreateobjectionabledustornoisenorcreateanykindofnoxiousor

injurioussubstanceorcauseapublichazard.



C. Nofinishedslopeshallbecreatedwithholesorhills,orwhichslopesdownfromanyadjoining

propertysteeperthanone

footverticaltotwofeethorizontal,andnoembankmentshallbecreated

whichslopesupwardfromanyadjacentpropertylinesteeperthanonefootverticaltothreefeet

horizontal,unlessanadequateretainingwallisconstructedinaccordancewithplanspreparedbya

professionalengineerlicensedtopracticeinNewYork

State.



§180‐55.On‐sitewaterandsewersystems.



A. Septictanks,tileordrainagefields,andseepagepitsshallbelocatedand maintainedonalotsoas

tobeconsistentwithrequirementsoftheColumbiaCountyDepartmentofHealth.



B. Othertypesofon‐sitesystems.Thelocationofstructuresforothertypesofsystemsshallhave

the

samesetbackrequirementsthatarerequiredforseptictanks.Anydischargepipefromsuchsystems

shallbesolocatedasnottobeapotentialcauseofpollutionforanywatersupply.



C. Replacementofexistingsystems.Thissectionshallnotapplytoreplacement ofexisti ngsystems

unlessthere

issufficientareaontheparceltoaccommodatethestandardsherein,inwhichcase

suchstandardsshallbeadheredto.



D. Watersupply.Wellsandothersourcesofwaterforhumanconsumptionoruseshallbelocatedat

least50feetfromanylotline.Whenthesize,shapeor

soilconditionsofapre‐existinglotmay

necessitatetheplacingofsuchwatersupplycloser than50feettoalotline,thelocationofthe

watersupplyshallbesubjecttotheapprovaloftheColumbiaCountyDepartmentofHealth.In

addition,thewellshallbelocatedsuch

thatitisnotsubjecttofloodingorsurfacewater

contaminationandthatitmeetstheminimumhorizontalseparationdistancesfrompotential

sourcesofcontaminationlistedinTable1of10NYCRRPart5,Appendix5B,unlessawaiverhasbeen

grantedbytheColumbiaCountyDepartmentofHealth.



E. Pollution.

Allnewsewagesystemsshallbesolocatedasnottobeasourceorapotentialsourceof

pollutionforanywatersupplyorwaterbodies.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 175 

§180‐56.Burnedbuildings.

Noowneroroccupantoflandinanydistrictshallpermitburnedbuildingstobeleftstanding.Burnt

buildingsshallberemovedwithinoneyearorregradethegroundlevelorshallrepair,rebuildorreplace

thestructure.Adequatelyprotectopenwells.

§180‐57.Demolition

A. Nodemolitionofanystructureinexcessof200squarefeetshalloccuruntiltheCEOhasissueda

demolitionpermit.Allapplicationsfordemolitionpermitsshallbeinwriting,signedbytheowneror

agent,onformsfurnishedbytheCodeEnforcementOfficerandshallbrieflystate:

(1) A

descriptionofthepropertyandbuil dingsorstructurestobedemolished.



(2) Thenameandaddressofanycontractor,ifany,participatinginthedemolition.



(3) Anagreementtocomplywiththischapterandallotherlaws,ordinancesandregulations

includingthosethatincludehazardousmaterials (e.g.,asbestos)that

maybeapplicable.



(4) Theapplicant'sproposalforcappingnaturalgaslines,waterlines,waterwells,sewagelinesor

systems,ifany.



(5) Theapplicant'sproposal,includingadescriptionofmaterials,tofillinanydugwells,septic

systemand/orcellarorothersubsurfaceareastogradelevel,ifneeded.





B. Ademoli tionplanshallbeincludedwithanapplicationforademolitionpermit,alongwithanyfee

thatmaybeestablishedbytheTownofChathamforsuchactivity.Alldemolitionplansshallinclude

oneofthefollowing:

(1) Aredevelopmentplanforthepropertythatprovidesfora

replacementorrebuiltstructurefor

theregulatedstructurebeingdemolishedorrelocated,indicatinginsufficientdetailthenature,

appearanceandlocationofallreplacementorrebuiltstructures;or

(2) Forpropertytoremainvacant,arestorationplanforthepropertyfollowing demolition,

includingadescriptionofthematerials ,grading, landscaping,

andmaintenanceproceduresto

beutilizedtoensurethattherestorationconformstotheapprovedplanandthatlandscaping

survivesinahealthycondition;and/or

(3) Atreatmentplanforanywallsofadjacentbuildingsexposedasaresultofthedemolition.

C. TheCodeEnforcementOfficershalldetermineifany

specialusepermitorsiteplanapprovalis

requiredwhenreplacementorconstructionofanewstructureoruseisproposed.Ifdemolitionis

proposedinconjunctionwithaprojectthatrequiresPlanningBoardreview,theapplication shall

considerbothactions.

D. Theapplicatio n shallbeaccompaniedbyasigned

affidavitoftheapplicantstatingthatalldemolition

debrisshallbepromptlyandlegallydisposedofataproperlypermittedlandfillordump.

E. Allthedemolitionsitesshallbebarricadedinsuchamannerastoprovideproperwarningand

protectiontothepublic.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 176 

F. Alldemolitionprojectsoncecommencedmustbecompletedwithin30daysoftheir

commencementdate,unlessawrittenextensionhasbeengrantedbytheCodeEnforcement

Officer.



G. Demolitionpermitsshallexpire90daysfromthedateofissuanceiftheworkauthorizedhasnot

commenced,unlessaprior

writtenextensionhasbeengrantedbytheCodeEnforcementOfficerfor

goodcauseshown.



§180‐58.IndividualStandardsforSpecialUses.



Inadditiontothegenerala pprovalstandardsabove,thefollowingspecialusesmustcomplywiththe

individualspecificrequirementssetforthbelow.



A.AnimalHospital,KennelsandAnimalCamp

(1) RequirementsforAnimalHospitals,Kennels,andanimalcamps:



(a) AnimalwasteshallbedisposedofinamanneracceptabletotheDepartmentofHealth.All

on‐sitedisposalcontainersforwasteshallbecoveredandemptiedregularlytocontrol

odors.(b)Allfacilitiesassociateddirectlywiththekennelor

veterinaryhospital,whether

indoorsoroutdoors,shallbesetbackaminimumofonehundred(100)feetfromany

propertyline.(c)Animalsshallbehouse dinapermanentenclosedbuildingwhichshallbe 

constructedofsoundproofmaterialssoastoadequatelyminimizethenoise.

(d) Parkingshallbelocatedbehind

thefrontlineoftheprincipalbuildingtothesideorrearof

thestructure.

(e) ThePlanningBoardshallevaluatepotentialnoiseimpactsandshallminimizenegative

impactstoadjacentuseswhichmayincludeuseofbuffersorsoundproofingbuildings.

(f) TheBoardmayrequirevisualscreeningof

outdoorruns.

(g) Allanimalsshallbekeptinsidetheenclosedkennelstructureduringthehoursofdarkness.

(h)Theminimumarearequiredshallbetwoacreswithamaximumofsixanimals.An

additionalthree(3)animalsperacremaybekenneledforeachadditionalacrewitha

maximumof

ten(10)animalsforanysuchuseintheRL1andRL2districtsandtwenty‐five

(25)intheBdistrict.



(2) AdditionalRequirementsforAnimalHospitals.

(a) Landburialofanimalson‐siteisprohibited.



(3) AdditionalRequirementsforKennels.

(a) Theowneroroccupantshallmaintain

adequatecontroloftheanimalsandshallprovide

adequateprotectiontoensurethatthedogsarenotabletoleavethepremises.

(b) Noanimalmaybekenneledwithoutavaliddoglicenseissuedbythetownclerkorany

otherdulyauthorizedmunicipalentityorofficial.



B.AutomotiveRepair

(Commercial)

(1) Allautomotiverepairworkshallbeconductedinfullyenclosedbuilding.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 177 



(2) Allvehicleswhetherregisteredornot,storedonthepremisesinexcessofseventy‐two(72)

hoursshallbeshieldedfromviewfromtheroadorplacedinanenclosedstorageyard.There

shallbenooutsideidlingofvehiclesforperiodinexcessof15minutes.



(3)

Whereanautomotiverepairuseadjoinsaresidentialuse,alandscapescreenwithaminimum

heightoften(10)feet,shallbeprovidedadjacenttothesharedpropertyline.



(4) Baydoorstothegarageshallnotfrontonanypublicright‐of‐way.Baydoorsshallfacetherear

yard.ThePlanningBoardmayapproveanalternativeorientationtomitigate impactsto

adjoininguses.

(5) Dumpsterlocationsshallbescreenedfrompublicview.Allrefuseshallbedisposedofin

appropriatewastecontainersandremovedfromthepremisesonaregularbasis.Wasteoil,

greaseandothersolventsshallbe

disposedofinaccordancewithallapplicablefederal,state

andlocallaws.



(6) NoparkingorstorageshallbepermittedwithinthefrontyardunlesstheBoardshalldetermine

thatnegativevisualimpactscanbemitigatedbyrequiringlandscaping orscreening.



(7) Thereshallbenooutsideaccumulationof

parts,tires,sparevehicles,etc.Allstoragemustbe

incompliancewithNY SDECandDOTregulationsandlaws.



C.AutomotiveRepairFacilitiesWhichSellCarsandMotorVehicleSalesroom&Garage

(1) Allautomotiverepairworkshallbeconductedinfullyenclosedbuilding.Allvehicleswhether

registeredornot,storedonthepremisesinexcessofseventy‐two(72)hoursshallbeshielded

fromviewfromtheroadorplacedinanenclosedstorageyard.



(2) Whereanautomotiverepairuse

adjoinsaresidentialuse,alandscapescreenwithaminimum

heightoften(10)feet,shallbeprovidedadjacenttothesharedpropertyline.



(3) Baydoorstothegarageshallnotfrontonanypublicright‐of‐way.Baydoorsshallfacetherear

yard.ThePlanningBoardmay

approveanalternativeorientationtomitigateimpactsto

adjoininguses.



(4) Dumpsterlocationsshallbescreenedfrompublicview.Allrefuseshallbedisposedofin

appropriatewastecontainersandremovedfromthepremisesonaregularbasis.Wasteoil,

greaseandothersolventsshallbedisposedofinaccordance

withallapplicablefederal,state

andlocallaws.



(5) NoparkingorstorageshallbepermittedwithinthefrontyardunlesstheBoardshalldetermine

thatnegativevisualimpactscanbemitigatedbyrequiringlandscaping orscreening.



(6) Thedisplayofmotorvehicles,mobilehomesand/orboatsshallnotbe

allowedintherequired

front,sideorrearyardsetbacks.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 178 

(7) Thetotalareafortheoutdoordisplayofmotorvehicles,mobilehomesand/orboats,including

therowsand/orspacesinbetween,shallnotexceed25%ofthetotallot.



(8) Thereshallbeadequatespacinginbetweenthevehicles,mobil e homesand/orboatsto

accommodateemergencyvehicleaccess.



(9) AllrequirementsforAutomotiveRepairmustbecompliedwith.



D.BedandBreakfast

(1) Thefacilitymustbeoperatedbytheowner(s)oftheparcelorstructureinvolved,whoshall

resideonthepremisesatalltimesthatguestsarethere.



(2) Thefacilityshallhavenotmorethanfiveroomsforfeepayingguestsandnomorethan10

guests.Suchrooms

mustbelocatedinthemainresidentialdwelli ng.



(3) Theminimumlotsizerequiredfortheestablishmentofsuchafacilityshallbetheminimumlot

sizeforasingle‐familydwellinginthedistrictwhere thepar celislocated.



(4) TheapplicantmustsubmitproofsatisfactorytothePlanning

Board,demonstratingthattheon

lotsepticsystemandwatersupplyisadequateforthemaximumoccupancyofthisfacility,

includingtheresident/owneroperator.



(5) Nomealsmaybeservedotherthanbreakfast.Nomealsorbeveragesshallbeservedtopersons

otherthanthosewhoareactualfee‐paying

guestsortheresident/owneroperator.





(6) Offstreetparkingshallbelocatedintherearyardonlyunlessthelotconfigurationdoesnot

allowforthis.



(7) Theminimumnumberofparkingspacesshallbeonepereachroomtobeutilizedbyguestsand

threefortheresident

owner/operatorandhisorherfamily.



(8) Onesignnotlargerthanfoursquarefeetshallbeallowed.



E.Cemetery

(1)Noburialormemorialplotsorbuildingsin newcemeteriesshallbelocatedcloserthan50feetto

anyresidentiallotline,exceptthatwhenadenseevergreenhedgeorawallorlandscapedstrip,

atleastsixfeetinheight,providingcompletevisualscreeningfromalladjacentresidential

property

isprovided,burialormemorialplotslessthansixfeetinheightmaybelocatedno

closerthan20feettoanyresidentiallotline.



F.DayCareCenter:

(1) Allbuildings,structuresandareasoforganizedactivitysuchasplayareas,swimmingpools,etc.,

shallbenotlessthan75feetfromanypropertyline.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 179 

(2) Off‐streetparkingareasshallbenotlessthan50feetfromanypropertyline.



(3) Outdoorfloodlightingorpublicaddresssystemsareprohibited.



(4) Landscapingandfencingshallbesufficienttobuffertheusefromadjoiningproperties.



(5) MustconformtoallNYSlawandagencylicensing

requirements.



G.AllRecreationFacilityUses,HealthClubs,MembershipClub,Community Center

(1)TheseusesshallbeallowedwhenaccessisfromaStateorCountyhighwayonly.



(2) Forprivaterecreationalfacilitiesthereshallbeamaximumsizeof10acres.



(3) Communitycenterandmembershipclubsshallhaveamaximumbuildingfootprintof2,500

squarefeet.



(4) Compliancewith

theTown’sMassGatheringlocallawisrequiredwhentheuseisexpectedto

attractgreaterthan300atanyonetime.



(5) Forindoororoutdoorcommercialrecreationfacilities,therecreationalareabuildingfootprint

orusablespaceonthelotshallbenolargerthan40,000sf.



(6) Water

consumptionbyanyrecreationaluseshallnotaffectsurroundingwellpressures,andthe

PlanningBoardmayrequirepumptestingtoensure thatthereisnoadverseimpactonwater

pressuretoneighbors.Theamountofimpervious surfacesshallbeminimized.



(7) Hoursofoperationforanyoftheseusesshall

benolaterthan10PM.Exteriorlightingafter

hoursshallbelimitedtoonlythatrequiredforsafety.Nighttimeactivitiesandlightingshallbe

limitedtominimizenoiseandlightingimpactsonneighboringproperties.



(8) Noexcessivenoise,pollution,orheavytrafficshallbeallowed.Suchprohibitedactivitiesinclude



butarenotlimitedtopaintballcoursesorracetracksformotorizedvehicles,drones,ormodel

cars/planes.



(9) InRLdistricts,commercialrecreationalusesshallhaveaminimumof50acres.InBdistrict,

commercialrecreationalusesshallhaveaminimumof5acres.



H.FuelStorageFacility

(1) Shallnotbelocatedwithin100feetofanyhigh‐watermarkofawaterbody.



(2) Nootheruseexceptaccessoryuse,mayutilizedontheaffectedparcel.



(3) Adequatefiresuppressionandequipmentmustbeon‐siteatalltimes.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 180 

(4) Innoeventshallstorageofmorethaneight(8)twentythousand(20,000)gallontanksbe

approved.



(5) Innoeventshallafuelstoragefacilitybeapprovedwithinafloodplain.



(6) Alltanksshallbefullyscreenedfromviewfromthestreetandadjacentproperties.



GroupHome:



(1) Off‐streetparkingareasshallbenotlessthan50feetfromanypropertyline.



(2) Outdoorfloodlightingorpublicaddresssystemsareprohibited.



(3) Landscapingandfencingshallbesufficienttobuffertheusefromadjoiningproperties.



(4) MustconformtoallNYSlawandagencylicensing

requirementsi ncludingNewYorkState

VolumeB‐1,Title18,Articles4‐7.



(5) Noexterioralterationsotherthannormalmaintenanceandthosemandatedbyanyothercodes

orregulationstoassuresafetyandsanitationshallbemadetoanyexistingdwelling.



(6) Withinaresidentialdistrict,anynew

buildingshallbecompatiblewiththescale,characterand

designofsurroundingdwellingsandshallcomplywithallregulationshereinapplicabletothe

district.



(7) Thenumberofresidentsinagroupresidenceshallbereasonablyconsistentwiththenumberof

bedroomsandotherlivingaccommodationsavailableinthestructure.



J.HuntingPreserveandPublic/PrivateOutdoorFiringRange:

(1) Minimumof100acres.



(2) Nofiringofgunsbefore10:00amorafterdusk.



(3) Nomorethan10huntersper100acreshuntingatthesametime.



(4) CompliancewithAppendixB.



K.Mini‐Mart/ConvenienceStore(Nodrivethroughallowed)

(1) Exteriordisplayofmerchandiseforsalewillbeallowedonlyonpavedwalkwaywithinthree(3)

feetofthebuilding.



(2) Loadingareasshallminimizeimpactstothesurroundingpropertiesandtheneighborhood.

Screeningandbufferyardsshallbeprovidedifadjacenttoresidentialuse.



(3) Atleastone

(1)buildingentrance,andallprincipalwindows,shallfacethestreet.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 181 



(4) Useofalternativepavements(brickpavers,porouspavement)isencouraged.

(5) Thereshallbeaminimumlotsizeoftwentythousand(20,000)squarefeet.



(6) Vehicleentrancesshallbeminimizedtomaximizesafetyandefficienttrafficcirculationwhile

minimizingimpactstothesurroundingneighborhood.



(7) Theapplicantshall

demonstratetothesatisfactionofthePlanningBoardthattheuseis

compatiblewithneighborhood.



(8) Exteriorlightingshallnotglareonadjacentpropertyorpublicright‐of‐way.



(9) Thehoursofoperationmayberestricted.



L.Mini‐Warehouse/Self‐StorageFacility

(1) Themini mumfrontsetbackshallbefifty(50)feet.Nostructureshallbewithin100feetofany

high‐watermarkofawaterbody.



(2) Nosecurityfencing,securitygate,orotherobstructiontovehicleaccessshallbepermittedin

therequiredfrontyardsetback.Securityfencingshall

notincludeelectricallycharged,barbed

wireorrazorwire,andshallnotbeplacedinarequiredfrontyardsetbackarea.



(3) Nodooropeningforanystorageunitshallbeconstructedfacinganyresidentialuse.



(4) Dooropeningsforstorageunitsshallfacetheinteriorofthesiteunless

impracticable.



(5) Anon‐siteofficeforamanagermayberequiredifthePlanningBoarddeemsitappropriateto

helpprovideadequatesecurityorassuranceofmitigationofpotentialimpactstonearby

properties.



(6) Theroofshapeandmaterialsshallbepitched,compatiblewiththedesignandmaterials

of

neighboringbuildings,andconsistentwiththeruraland/orhistoriccharacterofthe

neighborhood.



(7) Viewsofthestoragefacilityfrompublicrights‐of‐wayshallbefullybufferedandscreened.



(8) Allparkingshallbetotherearofthebuildingortotheside,andifonthe

side,mustbe

adequatelyscreened.



(9) Storageunitsshallnotbeusedfor:theservicingorrepairofmotorvehicles,boats,recreational

vehicles,motorcycles,trailers,lawnmowersandothersimilarequipment;orforoffice,retail,

manufacturingorothersimilaruses.



(10) Noactivitiessuchasmiscellaneousgaragesales/auctionsshall

beconductedonthepremises.

However,theownershallhavetheabilitytohaveasaleforforeclosurepurposes.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 182 



(11) Allstorageusesshallbeinsideanenclosedbuilding.



(12) Spacingbetweenstructuresshallbeaminimumoftwenty(20)feetandemergencyaccessshall

beprovidedtoatleastthree(3)sidesofallstructures.Accessdrivesshallbedesignedtohandle

automobiles,vans,lighttrucks,and

othertwo‐axlevehicles.



(13) Alloutdoordumpstersshallbescreened.



N.ResearchLaboratory

(1) Theminimumlotareashallbefive(5)acresandthelotshallhavenolessthanfifty(50)feetof

frontageonacountyorstateroad.Thebuildingshallbesetbacknolessthanonehundred(100)

feetfromanylotline.



(2) Nosalesto

thegeneralpublicshallbepermitted.



(3) Alluses,processesandstorageshallbewithinafullyenclosedstructure,andnotanksorother

apparatusincidentaltotheprocessingormanufacturingshallbevisibleoutsideofa

manufacturingbuilding.Thefaçadeofbuildingsandstructuresshallbecompatiblewiththe

rural

characterandadjacentdevelopment.



(4) Theapplicantshallsubmitalistofanyotherpermits thatmayberequiredfortheoperationas

wellasalistofthegoodsandmaterialstobestoredandmanufactured.



(5) Parkingmaybeallowedinfrontyardsprovidedtheyareset

backbeyondtheminimumfront

yardrequirement.



(6) Thelocationandhoursofoperationofallon‐sitelightingshallbereviewedandapprovedbythe

PlanningBoard.



(7) ThePlanningBoardmayrequireawall,fence,landscapingorotherbufferbeinstalledwherea

propertyadjoinsaresidential

use.Saidbuffershallbenolessthanten(10)feetinwidthand

height.



(8) Thereshallbenoanimaltestingtakingplacewithinthefacility.



O.Restaurant

(1) Parkingforanewrestaurantisnotpermittedinthefrontyardsetbackunlesstheparkingareais

adequatelyscreenedtomitigatenegativevisualimpacts.Parkingforarestaurantbusinessin

existenceatthetimethisZoningLawisadoptedmaycontinuetomaintainanexistingparking

arealocatedin

thefrontyardsetbackandwithoutscreening.



(2) Anapplicantshallclearlydemonstratethattheusewillbecompatiblewiththea djoininguses,

particularlywithregardtotrafficcirculation,parking,andappearance.Nomor ethantwo(2)

curbcutsperlotfrontage shallbeallowed.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 183 



(3) Sufficientscreeningshallbeprovidedtobufferthesiteandlimitnoiseandlightingimpactson

adjacentresidences.



(4) Wherearesidentialbuildingwhichcontributestothehistoric oruniquecharacterofthe

surroundingneighborhood,isproposedtobeconve r tedtoarestaurant,exterioralterations

shallbemade

inamannerthatpreservestheessentialresidentialcharacterofthebuilding.



(5) ThePlanningBoardmayprohibitorlimitoutside musi corentertainmentwheresamewould

negativelyimpactadjoinornearbyproperties.



P.StorageFacility,Commercial(TravelTrailer,Cars,Boats,Etc.).

(1) Allstorageshalltakeplacewithinafullyenclosedbuilding.



(2) Thereshallbenooutdoorstorageofpallets,dumpsters,orequipment.



(3) Outsidestorageareasshallnotexceedtwenty‐five(25%)percentofthetotalareaofthesitefor

commercialuseswhereallowed,andthirtypercent30%

forhome‐basedbusinesses.



(4) Parkingshallbelocatedbehindaprincipalbuildingandshallbecompletelyscreenedfromview

fromthepublicroadandfromanyotheradjacentresidentialuses.



(5) ThePlanningBoardshallevaluateimpactsrelatedtonoise,traffic,hoursofoperation,and

lightingrequirementsand

shallminimizenegativeimpactsonadjacentuses.



Q.PortableOn‐DemandStorageUnits

(1) Thestoragetrailermustbestructurallysoundandposenodetrimenttopublichealth,safety,

convenienceorpropertyvalues.



(2) Thestoragetrailermustmeetthesameside,frontandrearsetbackandcoveragerequirements

aswouldaconventionalstructure.Nostoragetrailershallbesitedinfrontofaprincipal

structure.



(3) Thestoragetrailershallbelocatedsothatitdoesnottakeupparkingspacesrequiredforother

usesonthesiteanddoesnotobstructemergencyaccessorotheressentialcirculationpatterns.



(4) Theaggregateareacoveredbystoragetrailersshallnotexceed10percentofthetotalfloorarea

ofallbuildingsonthesite.



(5) Aself‐storagepodplacedforlessthan180daysshallbeallowedinallzoningdistricts.

ExtensionscanbegrantedbytheCEObutnotmorethan1‐year.



R.Office

(1) IntheBusiness(B)districtthereshallbeamaximumbuildingfootprintsizeof20,000square

feet.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 184 

(2) IntheIndustrial(I)districtthereshallbeamaximumbuildingfootprintsizeof30,000square

feet.



S.OutdoorFurnacesandBurnBarrels

WhereallowedaspertheUseTableestablishedinthislocallaw,allrequirementsof6CRR‐NYIIIA,

Part247shallbemet.



T.WindTurbineforIndividualResidential,FarmorBusinessUse.Reserved



U.MuseumorotherCulturalFacilityinHamletDistricts

(1) Buildingsshallbenolargerinsizethan125%thesizeoftheadjacentbuildings’footprintand

shallnotexceedthesizeofthelargestbuildinginthehamlet.Parkingshallbenomorethan10%

ofthelotsize.Allsignageandlightingregulationsshallapply.



(2) Encouraged

tobeinanexistingstructure.



(3) Inkeepingwithhamletcharacter.



(4) Mustmeetallotherdesignstandardsandotherdevelopmentrequirementsforcommercialuses

inthatdistrictincludingbutnotlimitedtolighting,nois e,landscapingandsignstandards.



(5) Trafficshallnotbeincreased>25%above

existingtrafficlevels.



V.SmallRecreationalFacilityandPocketPark

(1) Thesefacilitiesshallserveprimarilyimmediateandnearbyneighborhoods.



(2) Anyassociatedstructurewiththeparkshallnotexceed2500squarefeet,butin H1and H2shall

notexceedthelargestbuildinginthehamlet.



(3) Waterconsumptionbytherecrea tionalareashallnotaffectsurroundingwellpressures.





(4) Nighttimeactivitiesandlightingshallbelimited,in‐keepingwiththeresidentialneighborhood

character.



W.SolarPanelsforIndividualOn‐SiteResidential,FarmorBusinessUse

(1) RoofMounted.Theinstallationofroofmountedsolarpanelsthatgenerateupto25kWare

permittedinalldistrictsandshallrequireabuildingpermit.



(2) GroundMounted.Forgroundmountedfacilitiesupto25kW,siteplanreviewapprovalbythe

PlanningBoardisrequiredforallzoning

districts.Allsideandrearsetbacksshallbemet.No

groundmountedpanelsshallbeplacedinthefrontyardofanystructureintheH1andH2

districts.ThePlanningBoardmayrequirethatscreeningbeprovidedwhenpracticablefrom

adjoininglotsthroughtheuseofarchitecturalfeatures,earthberms,

landscaping,fencing,or

otherscreeningwhichwillharmonizewiththecharacterofthepropertyandsurroundingarea.

Theproposedscreeningshallnotinterferewithnormaloperationofthesolarcollectors.The



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 185 

heightofgroundmountedorfreestandingsolarcollectors’heightshallnotexceed20feetwhen

orientedatmaximumtilt.



X.SolarFarm

SolarFarmsareallowedinthoseportionsoftheRLdistrictslocatedwithintheNewYorkState

AgriculturalDistrictwithaspecialusepermitandsiteplanreviewbythePlanningBoard,orwithinthe

SolarOverlayDistrict,asmayexist.Suchsystemsareprohibitedfromallotherzoningdistrictsin

the

TownofChatham.

(1) Allapplicationsforsolarfarmsshallincludethefollowing:



(a) Plansanddrawingsofthesolarenergysysteminstallationsignedbyaprofessionalengineer

registeredinNewYorkStateshowingtheproposedlayoutoftheentiresolarenergysystem

alongwithadescriptionofall

components,whetheronsiteoroffsite,existingvegetation

andproposedclearingandgradingofallsitesinvolved.Clearingand/orgradingactivitiesare

subjecttoreviewbythePlanningBoardandshallnotcommenceuntiltheissuanceofsite

planapproval.

(b) Anelectricaldiagramdetailing thesolarenergysystem

installation,associatedcomponents,

andelectricalinterconnectionmethods,withalldisconnectsandover‐currentdevices

identified.

parkingareas,etc.

(d) Planforclearingand/orgradingofthesite.Theclearingandgradingplanshallalsoinclude

methods

tostockpile,reduceerosionof,andreusealltopsoilfromthesite.

(e) Astormwaterpollutionprev entionplanasperNYSDECrequirementstodetailstormwater

runoffmanagementanderosioncontrolplansforthesite.

(f) DecommissioningplananddescriptionoffinancialsuretythatsatisfiestheTownthatall

required

improvementsshallbemadeforutility‐scalesystemsonly.Forallutility‐scalesolar

energysystems,theapplicantshallsubmitadecommissioningplanforreviewandapproval

aspartofthespecialusepermitapplication.Thedecommissioningplanshallidentifythe

anticipatedlifeoftheproject,methodandprocessforremoving

allcomponentsofthesolar

energysystemandreturningthesitetoitspreexistingcondition,andestimated

decommissioningcosts,includinganysalvagevalue.

(g) DesignandDevelopmentRequirements.



(2) Development andoperationofasolarenergysystemshallnothaveasignificantadverse

impactonfish,wildlife,orplantspeciesortheircriticalhabitats,orothersignificanthabitats

identifiedbytheTownofChathamorotherfederalorstateregulatoryagencies.Landswhich

havethehighestecologicalvalues

asevidencedbylarge,contiguousareasofforest,

undisturbeddrainageareas,wetlands,orNYSDECidentifiedcriticalhabitatsorrareplantand

animalpopulationsshallbeavoided.



(3) Thereshall beaminimum100‐footbufferbetweenanycomponentoftheutility‐scalesolar

energysystemandtheparcelboundary

line.ThePlanningBoardisauthorizedtoincreasethe

widthofthisbufferafteranalysisofsiteconditionsandadjacentlanduses.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 186 

(4) Roadwayswithinthesiteshallnotbeconstructedofimperviousmaterialsandshallbe

designedtominimizetheextentofroadwaysconstructedandsoilcompaction.



(5) Inactive farmlands,previouslyclearedordisturbedareasarepreferredlocationsforsolarpanel

arrays.



(6) Solararraysandagriculture.TheTownencouragesdevelopmentofthesolararrayssothat

animalsmaygrazebeneaththesolarpanels.



(7) Nativegrassesandvegetationshallbemaintainedbelowthearrays.



(8)

Thesolarfacility,includinganyproposedoff‐siteinfrastructure,shallbelocatedandscreened

insuchawayastoavoidorminimizevisualimpactsasviewedfrompublicroads.



(9) Thedesign,construction,operation,andmaintenanceofanysolarenergysystemshallprevent

themisdirectionand/orreflectionofsolar

raysontoneighboringproperties,publicroads,and

publicparksinexcessofthatwhichalreadyexists.



(10) Alltransmissionlinesandwiringassociatedwithasolarenergysystemshallbeburiedand

includenecessaryencasementsinaccordancewiththeNationalElectricCodeandTown

requirements.



(11) Anysignageused

toadvertisethesolarenergyfacilityshallbeinaccordancewiththeTown’s

signageregulations.Themanufacturersorinstaller’sidentification,contactinf ormation,and

appropriatewarningsignageshallbepostedatthesiteandclearlyvisible.



(12) Followingconstructionofalarge‐scaleorutility‐scaleground‐mountedsolarenergysystem,

all

disturbedareaswheresoilhasbeenexposedshallbereseededwithgrassand/orplantedwith

low‐levelvegetationcapableofpreventingsoilerosionandairbornedust.



(13) AbandonmentorDecommissioningofUtility‐ScaleSystems



(a) Allapplicationsforautility‐scalesolarenergyfacilityshallbeaccompaniedbya

decommissioningplantobeimplementeduponabandonment,orcessationofactivity,orin

conjunctionwithremovaloftheutility‐scalesolarenergyfacilityorstructure.Priorto

issuanceofabuildingpermit,theowneror

operatorofthefacilityorstructureshallposta

performancebondorothersuitableguaranteeinafaceamountofnotlessthan150%ofthe

estimatedcost,asdeterminedbytheengineerretainedbytheTown,toensureremovalof

thefacilityorstructureinaccordancewiththedecommissioningplan

describedbelow.The

formoftheguaranteemustbereviewedandapprovedbytheconsultingEngineerandTown

Attorney,andtheguaranteemustremainineffectuntilthesystemisremoved.Reviewof

theguaranteebytheconsultingEngineerandTownAttorneyshallbepaidfromanescrow

establishedby

theapplicant.Priortoremovalofautility‐scalesolarenergyfacilityor

structure,ademolitionpermitforremovalactivitiesshallbeobtainedfromtheTownof

Chatham.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 187 

(b) Iftheapplicantceasesoperationoftheutility‐scalesolarenergyfacilityorstructurefora

periodof18months,orbeginsbutdoesnotcompleteconstructionoftheprojectwithin18

monthsafterreceivingfinalsiteplanapproval,theapplicantwillsubmitadecommissioning

planthatensuresthat

thesitewillberestoredtoauseful,nonhazardousconditionwithout

delay,includingbutnotlimitedtothefollowing:

(1) Removalofallabovegroundandbelowgroundequipment,structuresandfoundations

includingbutnotlimitedtogroundanchors,cables,wiring,concretefoundations,

switchyards,controlhouses,fencing,andinverters.

(2) Restorationofthe

‐surfacegradeandtopsoilafterremovalofequipment.Compacted

portionsshallbedecompactedandexcavationsshallbebackfilledtorestorethesite.

(3) Revegetationofrestoredtopsoilareaswithnativeseedmixes,excludinganyinvasive

species.

(4) Theplanshallincludeatimeframeforthecompletionofsiterestoration

work.

startedbutisnotcompletedandfuncti oningwithin18monthsoftheissuanceofthefinal

siteplan,theTownmaynotifytheoperatorand/ortheownertocompleteconstructionand

installationof

thefacilitywithin180days.Iftheownerand/oroperatorfailstoperform,the

Townmaynotifytheownerand/oroperatortoimplementthedecommissioningplan.The

decommissioningplanmustbecompletedwithin180daysofnotificationbytheTown.

(d) Uponcessationofactivityofafullyconstructedutility‐

scalesolarenergyfacilityorstructure

foraperiodofoneyear,theTownmaynotifytheownerand/oroperatorofthefacilityto

implementthedecommissioningplan.Within180daysofnoticebeingserved,theowner

and/oroperatorshalleitherrestoreoperationequaltoatleast80%ofapprovedcapacity

or

implementthedecommissioningplan.

(e) Iftheownerand/oroperatorfailstofullyimplementthedecommissioningplanwithinthe

180‐daytimeperiodandrestorethesiteasrequired,theTownmay,atitsownexpense,

providefortherestorationofthesiteinaccordancewiththed ecommissioningplan 

and

may,inaccordancewiththelaw,recoverallexpensesincurredforsuchactivitiesfromthe

defaultedownerand/oroperator.ThecostincurredbytheTownshallbeassessedagainst

theproperty,shallbecomealienandtaxuponsaidproperty,shallbeaddedtoandbe come

apartofthe

taxestobeleviedand assessedthereon, andenforcedandcollectedwith

interestbythesameofficerandinthesamemannerasothertaxes.

(f) ThePlanningBoardisauthorizedtoseekanduselegal,engineering,planning,orother

professionalassistanceforthereviewofanyutility‐scalesolar

energyfacility.Allcosts

incurredrelatedtoretentionofanysuchassistanceshallbepaidinfullbytheapplicant.



Y.Agri‐tourism

(1) ThePlanningBoardmayconsultwiththeNewYorkStateDepartmentofAgricultureand

Marketsonacase‐bycasebasistodeterminewhethertheDepartmentconsidersaspecific

proposaltobeeligibleaspartofafarmoperationunderAML305‐a.Incaseswherethefarm

operationoffers

arecreationalactivityorholdsaspecialevent,includingcharitableeventsas

partofitsoverallmarketingstrategy,theeventisopentothegeneralpublic,thefarm’s

agriculturalproducts/servicesaresoldattheeventandnofacilityrentaland/orvendorsfees

areinvolved,theseactivitiesshallbeconsideredpart

ofthefarmoperation.Theprimary

purposeoftheeventsmuststillbetomarketthefarm’sagriculturalcommoditiesandtheevents

mustbesufficientlyrelatedtothefarmoperation.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 188 

(2) Agritourismactivitiesdeterminedtobepartofafarmoperationshallbesubordinatetothe

farmoperation.On‐farmspecialeventsandactivitiesmaybedeterminedtohelpmarketthe

farmoperations’crops,livestockandlivestockproducts.Agri‐tourismeventsandactivitiesmust

be:1)directlyrelatedtothe

saleandpromotionofthecrops(includingbeverages),livestockand

livestockproductsproducedatthefar m;2)incidentaland subordinatetotheretailsaleofthe

farm’scrops,livestockorlivestockproducts;3)hostedbythefarm;and4)featurethefarm’s

crops,livestockandlivestockproducts.Theprimarypurposeof

anagri‐tourismevent/activityis

tosellthefarm’sagriculturalcommodities.



(3) Allagritourismuseswithanexpectedattendanceabove300peopleperday,shallrequirea

modifiedsiteplanapprovalasper180‐29(C)(2).



(4) Whenabedandbreakfastaspartofafarmoperation

isproposed,allrequirementsforabed

andbreakfastpursuantto180‐58(D)shallbemetandthedwellingusedfortheBedand

Breakfastshallbeonthefarmparcelinanexistingresidentialstructure.Thereshallbea

maximumof10guests.



(5) ThePlanningBoardmay

limitthenumberofvehiclesaccessingthesiteperdaybasedonthe

existingroadconditions,adjacentlanduses,andactivityinordertolimitadverseimpactsof

traffic,noise,andonroads.



(6) Anystructureassociatedwithanagri‐tourismactivityshallbeconsistentwiththeexisting

characterof

theneighborhood.Adaptivereuseofbarnsandotherfarmstructuresis

encouraged.



(7) Theagri‐tourismactivityshallnotinterferewithanyagriculturalpracticesconductedon

adjacentfarms.



(8) Allagri‐tourismuseapplicationsshallalsoincludeanagriculturaldatastatementanduseofsuch

statementtonotifyadjacentlandowners.



Z.Short‐TermRentalUses.



Theseprovisionsapplytoshort‐termrentalusesasthoseusesaredefinedinth isSectionandthisZoning

Law.Thissectiondoesnotapplytolong‐termpropertyrentalsasthosearedefinedherein.



(1) Purpose.TheTownrecognizestheeconomicbe nefitsofshort‐termrentalsthatallow

homeownerstosupplementhouseholdincometohelpdefraythecostsofowningahome.

Further,therearepositiveeconomicbenefitsofprovidinglodgingtotouristsandothervisitors

totheTown.TheTownalso recognizesthe

potentialadverseimpactsshort‐termrentalscan

causetoneighbors,andneighborhoodcharacter,including,butnotlimited tonoise,traffic,

trespass,impacttohousingmarkets,andimpacttoruralandsmall‐townfeel.Credibleresearch

has

shownthatshort‐termrentalsmayresultinadecreaseinavailablelong‐termrental

unitsto

permanentresidentsasunitsaretakenoffthemarketandusedasinvestmentpropertiesfor 

short‐termrentalsfortourists.Studieshavealsoshownthatashifttoshort‐termrentalsmay



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 189 

resultinincreasesinrentsforexistinglong‐termrentals.TheseareadverseimpactstheTown

desirestoavoid.Short‐termrentalsarebecomingincreasinglymoreprevalentwiththegrowth

ofinternetandsocialmedia‐basedprograms connectingpropertyownersandpersonsseeking

short‐termrentals.Thus,theTownseeks

toregulateshort‐termrentals.



Theseprovisionsgoverningshort‐termrentalusesaredesignedtostrikeabalancebetweenthe

benefitsassociatedwithshort‐termrentaluseswhileprotecting thesurroundingcommunity

andneighborhoods.Ononehand,allowingthisuseintheTownwillallowourTownand

communityto

reaptheeconomicbenefitsthatthistypeofusecanbring.Ontheotherhand,

throughtheregulationsre presentedbytheseprovisions,thegoalistoavoidtothebestextent

practicablethepotentialadverseimpactstypicallyassociatedwiththisuseforneighborsandfor

ourcommunity.Informulatingtheseprovisions,

theTownBoardrecognizedthepassionate

commentsreceivedfromthecommunityduringpublichearingsabouttheprosandconsof

allowingthisuse.ItistheTownBoard’sviewthatstrikingthisbalanceisinthebestinterestsof

ourcommunityasawhole.



TheTownBoardreceivedextensivepublic

comments,whichencompassedallsidesoftheissue.

TheTownBoardreflecteduponthecommen ts,andindoingso,wasdrawntore‐evaluatethe

essenceoftheshort‐termrentaluse.TheBoarddeterminedthatscaleisthecentralconcern

andthatshort‐termrentaluseisessentiallya

commercialactivitywherespaceinaresidential

structureisrentedtoashort‐termtenantinexchangeformoney.TheTownBoardalso

recognizesthatthereareavarietyofdifferenttypesofshort‐termrentalsthatitdesiresto

recognize.Someshort‐termrentalsarelowintensityandshortterm

innature,othersfunction

inadomicileasalongerrentaluse,whileotherrentalsarewithinresidentialstructuresused

solelyforrentalpurposesandarenotthedomicileoftheowner.Byregulatingthisuseasa

homeoccupation,wehaveensuredthattheregulatoryapproachtothisuse

inthislawfollows

thedirectivesoftheTown’sComprehensivePlanandwillhelptheTownachiev ethegoalsofthe

Plan.



TheTownComprehensivePlanaddressestheconductofcommercialactivityonresidential

propertiesinresidentialzoningdistrictsashomeoccupations.Homeoccupationsallow

residentialhomeownerstoconductsmall

scalecommercialactivitiesontheirpropertiessolong

asthoseactivitiesaresubordinateandincidentaltotheprimaryresidentialuseoftheproperty.

Becausemostshort‐termrentalsinChathamwilltakeplaceinzoning districtsthatare

residentialincharacterandpurpose,theTownfindsthatitisimperativeto

balancetheseland

useswhilepreservingtheessentialresidentialcharacteroftheresidentialdistrictinChatham.

Thissectionwillbreakdownshort‐termrentaluseintofour(4)classes.Thefourclassesofrental

usesinresidentialhomesallowshomeownerstoreapsomeeconomicbenefi tfromcommercial

activityintheir

homesbutregulatesthecommercialactivityofhigherintensityrentalactivities

soastotemperthenatureandscaleofthoseactivities,suchthattheydonotadverselyimpact

neighborsandtheexistingresidentialcharacteroftheneighborhood.



Forexample,verysmallscaleshort‐termrentaluses,thosewherethe

aggregatenumberofdays

apropertyisputtoshort‐termrentaluseislessthanforty‐four(44)daysinaparticularcalendar

year,areallowedinallresidentialdistrictswithapermitandwhenallstandardsofthissection

aremetwithouthavingtomeetthedomicilerequirementwhich

wouldapplytoahome



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 190 

occupation.Theuseofresidentialpropertiesforshort‐termrentalformorethananaggregate

ofthirty(30)dayspercalendaryeararedefinedinthislocallawareaseparateclassofshort‐

termrentalandareconsideredhomeoccupationbusinessesthattakeplaceinanowner’s

residentialhome,

whichisintendedtomeanaperson’sdomicile.“Domicile”isdistinctand

differentfrom“residence.”Asisoftennotedbycourtsandcommentators,apersonmayhave

manyresidences,butcanhaveonlyonedomicile.



Inconsiderationoftheabove,theTownBoardbelievesthattherestrictionsandrequirements

imposed

hereinfurtherstheseobjectivesandthattheypromotetheprotectio nofthehealth,

safety,andwelfareofitsresidentsandthecommunityasawholeandisafaithful

implementationofthedirectivesoftheTownofChathamComprehensivePlan.



(2) Objectives.Toaddressshort‐termrentallandusesin

Chatham,theTownherebyestablishesthe

followingspecificobjectives:



(a) Ensurethattraditionalresidentialneighborhoodsarenotturnedintocommercialtourist

areastothedetrimentoflong‐timeresidents.



(b) Ensurethatregulationofshort‐termrentalsdoesnotnegativelyaffectpropertyvalues.



(d) Ensurethatminimalimpactwilloccuronthesupplyofaffordablelong‐termstockwithinthe

Town.

(e) Minimizeriskstopublicsafetyandadverseimpactssuchasnoise,disruptivebehavior,trash

andparkingproblemsoftenassociatedwithshort‐termrentals.



(f) Ensurethatshort‐termrentaluseisconsistentwiththeTownofChathamComprehensive

Plan.

(g) Encourageandpermitshort‐termrentalswithappropriateregulationforthebenefitofthe

economichealthandvibrancyoftheTownanditsresidents.



(3) ZoningDistricts.ThisSectionZregulatesClass1,2,3and4short‐termrentalusesasthoseuses

aredefinedherein.



(a) Thevariousclassesofshort‐termrentaluseshallbepermittedassetforthintheUseTable

whichispartofthisZoningLaw.Thoseusesshallalsobesubjecttotheapplicable

requirementssetforthinthisSectionZ,aswellasanyotherapplicablerequirementsof

this

ZoningLaw.

(b) Anyotherformofshort‐termrentalusenotexpresslypermittedbythisZoningLawand/or

theUseTableshallbeprohibited.



(4) Permitsand/orApprovalsRequired.Allclasses ofshort‐termrentalusesallowedpursuan ttothe

UseTableshallrequireaShort‐TermRental

PermittobeobtainedfromtheTownCode

EnforcementOfficer(“CEO”)andshallmeetallrequirementssetforthinZoningLawSection

180‐58(Z)andelsewhereinthisZoningLaw.InadditiontoaShort‐termRentalPermit,Class3

and4short‐termrentalusesshallalsorequireaSpecial

UsePermitpursuanttoZoningLaw

Section180‐30,exceptthat,notwithstandingtheprovisionsofthatsection,thoseshort‐term

rentalusesshallnotalsorequiresiteplanreviewandapproval.



(5) Definitions.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 191 

(a) “Long‐termRentaluseofaresidentialhome.”Theuseofaresidentialhomewherebyallor

partofthehomeisrentedbythepropertyownertoaparticulartenantforarentaltermof

morethanthirty(30)consecutivecalendardays.

(b) “Short‐termrentaluseof

aresidentialhome.”Theuseofaresidentialhomewherebyallor

partofthehomeisrentedbythepropertyownertoaparticulartenantasfollows:

1. “Class1Non‐Home‐OccupationShort‐termRentalUse”(alsoreferredtohereinfor

convenienceasa“Class1Short‐termrental

use”).Theuseofaresidentialhome,

regardlessofwhetherornotthathomeisthepropertyowner’sdomicileforshort‐term

rentalpurposeswhichmeetsthefollowingcriteria:

a. Intheaggregate,thehomeisusedforshort‐termrentaluseforforty‐four(44)days

orlessin

aparticularcalendaryear;

b. Notmorethanfive(5)bedrooms,asdefinedin§180‐9(b),inthehomeareusedfor

short‐termrentalpurposes;and

c. Theremayormaynotbeemployeesorindependentcontractorsinthehomethat

provideservicesinconnectionwiththeshort‐termrental

useorwhichfacilitate

short‐termrentaluse.

2. “Class2MinorHomeOccupationShort‐termRentalUse”(alsoreferredtohereinfor

convenienceasa“Class2Short‐termrentaluse”).Theuseofaresidentialhomefor

short‐termrentalpurposeswhichmeetsthefollowingcriteria:



a.Theresidentialhomeisthepropertyowner’sdomicile;b.Intheaggregate,thehome

isusedforshort‐termrentalusemorethanforty‐four(44)daysinaparticular

calendaryear;

c. Notmorethantwo(2)bedrooms,asdefinedin§180‐9(b),inthehomeare

usedfor

short‐termrentalpurposes;

d. Therearenomorethanone(1)employeeorindependentcontractorinthehome

providingservicesinconnectionwiththeshort‐termrentaluseorwhichfacilitate

short‐termrentaluse;and

e. Complieswiththeapplicablerequirements forminorhomeoccupationssetforth

in

Section180‐41oftheZoningLaw.



3. “Class3MajorHomeOccupationShort‐termRentalUse”(alsoreferredtohereinfor

convenienceasa“Class3Short‐termrentaluse”).Theuseofaresidentialhomefor

short‐termrentalpurposeswhichmeetsthefollowingcriteria:

a. Theresidentialhomeisthepropertyowner’sdomicile;

b.

Intheaggregate,thehomeisusedforshort‐termrentaluseformorethanforty‐

four(44)daysinaparticularcalendaryear;

c. One(1)ortwo(2)bedrooms,asdefinedin§180‐9(b),inthehomearerentedfor

short‐termrentalpurposes,withmorethanone

(1)employeeorindependent

contractorinthehomeprovidingservicesinconnectionwiththeshort‐termrental

useorwhichfacilitateshort‐termrentaluse,orbetweenthree(3)andfive(5)

bedroomsinthehomearerentedforshort‐termrentalpurposesregardlessof

whetherthereareemployeesor

independentcontractorsinthehomeproviding

servicesinconnectionwiththeshort‐termrentaluseorwhichfacilitateshort‐term

rentaluse;and

d. Complieswiththeapplicablerequirementsformajorhomeoccupationssetforthin

Section180‐41oftheZoningLaw.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 192 

4. “Class4InvestmentPropertyforRent”(alsoreferredtohereinforconvenienceasa

“Class4short‐termrentaluse”).Theuseofaresidentialhomeforshort‐termrental

purposeswhichmeetsthefollowingcriteria:

a. Theresidentialhomeisnotthepropertyowner’sdomicile;

b. Theresidential

homeislocatedonpropertywhollylocatedineithertheBusiness(B)

orIndustrial(I)zoningdistrict;

c. Notmorethanfive(5)bedrooms,asdefinedin§180‐9(b),inthehomeareusedfor

short‐termrentalpurposes,andtheremayormaynotbeemployeesor

independentcontractorsin

thehomethatprovideservicesinconnect ionwiththe

short‐termrentaluseorwhichfacilitateshort‐termrentaluse;and

d. Intheaggregate,thehomeisusedforshort‐termrentaluseformorethanforty‐

four(44)daysinaparticularcalendaryear.



 in this Zoning  Law, shall mean: a person’s fixed, permanent, and

principal home for legal purposes and which is physically occupied by the owner for the

purposesofli ving thereatleast160dayspercalendaryear.For thepurposes ofthisdefinition,

“Domicile” is distinct and different from “residence.”

As is often noted by courts and

commentators, a person may have many residences, but can have only one domicile.

Property used for Class 2 or 3 short‐term rental use must be the domicile of the property

owner. The Town Board shall prescribe a schedule of acceptable documents which shall



constituteproofofaperson’sdomicileforthepurposesofthisZoningLaw.



(6) Qualifications

(a)Short‐termrentalusesshallbepermittedonlyinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofthe

ZoningLawUseTable.Itshallbeunlawfultoestablish,maintain,operate,occupy,rentor

leaseanypropertyfor

short‐termrentaluseotherthaninaccordancewiththeUseTable

andotherprovisionsofthisZoningLaw.

(b)MaximumOccupancy.Forallshort‐termrentalusesdefinedinthisSection,eachrented

bedroom,assuchisdefinedin§180‐9(b)herein,shallhaveamaximumoccupancyof

two

(2)persons.



(7) MultipleResidentialStructuresonaSingleParcel.Forallclassesofshort‐termrentaluses,

whereparcelshavemorethanone(1)structurecontainingadwellingunitorunits,onlyone(1)

ofthosestructuresmaybeusedforshort‐termrentaluse.Short‐termrental

useofmultiple

dwellingunitstructuresonasingleparcelisprohi bited.



(8) RestrictionsonUse.Theshort‐termrentalusespermittedbythis§180‐58(Z)shallnotinclude

otherusesoractivitiesinvolvingshort‐termrentaltenantsbeyondmereoccupancy.Theshort‐

termrentalusespermittedbythissectionexpresslydonotpermitshort‐termrentaltenancyto

includecoincidental

useofthepropertyforweddings,reunions,partiesorother group

gatheringsofanykind.Anyuseotherthantenantoccupancyshallbeconsi deredaseparateuse

andshallbesubjecttowhateverotherlanduse regulationsapplytothatuse.





(9) RequiredApprovals.

(a) ApplicationforaPermit.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 193 

1. Class1Non‐Home‐OccupationShort‐termRentalUse.ApplicationsforaClass1Non‐

Home‐OccupationShort‐termRentalUseshort‐termrentalpermitshallbefiledwiththe

BuildingDepartmentalongwiththerequiredpermitfeeaspertheTownFeeSchedule.

2. Class2MinorHome

OccupationShort‐termRentalUse.ApplicationsforaClass2Minor

HomeOccupationShort‐termRentalUseshort‐termrentalpermitshallbefiledwiththe

BuildingDepartmentalongwiththerequiredpermitfeeaspertheTownFee

Schedule.

3. Class3MajorHomeOccupationShort‐termRentalUse.Applications

foraClass3Major

HomeOccupationShort‐termRentalUseshort‐termrentalpermitshallbefiledwiththe

BuildingDepartment.Thatapplicationshallbeaccompaniedbyanapplicationfora

specialusepermit,whichtheBuildingDepartmentshallforwardtothePlanningBoard

forreviewanddetermination.Both

applicationsshallbeaccompaniedbytherespective

requiredapplicationfeeaspertheTownFeeSchedule.Short‐termrentalusesshallbe

permittedonlyafterissuanceoftherequiredspecialusepermit.

4. Class4InvestmentPropertyforRent.ApplicationsforaClass4InvestmentPropertyfor

Rentshort‐termrental

permitshallbefiledwiththeBuildingDepartment.That

applicationshallbeaccompaniedbyanapplicationforaspecialusepermit,whichthe

BuildingDepartmentshallforwardtothePlanningBoardforreviewanddetermination.

Bothapplicationsshallbeaccompaniedbytherespectiverequiredapplicationfeeasper

theTown

FeeSchedule.Short‐termrentalusesshallbepermittedonlyafterissuanceof

therequiredspecialusepermit.

5. Norentalunitsshallbeadvertiseduntilthepermithasbeenissued.

(b) Applica tion Content‐Theformandcontentofashort‐termrentalpermitapplicationforall

classesofshort‐term

rentaluseshallbeprovidedonawritten for mavailablebytheTown of

ChathamBuildingDepartmentand/ortheTownBoard.Suchwrittenformshallcontainsuch

informationandmaterialsastheCEOand/orTownBoarddeemsnecessarytodetermine

thesufficiencyofthepermitapplicationandtoaidin

themonitoringofcompliance.

Applicationsforallclassesofshort‐termrentalpermitsshallinclude,butnotbelimitedto:



1. Thepropertyaddressandtaxparcelnumber.

2. Thetotalnumberofdwellingunitslocatedontheproperty.

3. Thetotalnumberofbedroomsandbathroomsinsidethebuilding

availableforrental

use.

4. Thelocationofeachsuchindividualbedroomwithinthebuilding.

5. Thelocationofoff‐streetparkingspacesfortenantsonthepropertyandthenumberof

suchspacesasrequiredbythisZoningLaw.

6. CertificationofPermitApplication.Thepermitapplicationformshallalso

includea

certification,inaformtobeprescribedbytheTownBoard,thatshallbesignedbyevery

permitapplicantandwhosesignatureshallbenotarizedbyaNotaryPublic.Inthat

certificationthepermitapplicantshallswearorotherwiseattestunderpenaltyof

perjurythat:

(a) forproperties

tobeusedforeitherClass2or3short‐termrentaluse,theprop erty

toberentedistheowner’sdomicileassuchisdefinedherein;

(b) tothebestoftheowner’sknowledgethepropertyandbuildinginwhichtherental

willtakeplacearefitforhumanhabitation

andsafe;



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 194 

theshort‐termrentalpermit;

(d) noportionofthearea usedforshort‐termrentalswillutilizeacellarorattic,orany

portionthereof,ashabitablespaceunlessitmeetstherequirements

oftheNew

YorkStateUniformFirePreventionandBuildingCodesorsuccessorlaw;

(e) tothebestofowner’sknowledge,thepropertyandthebuildinginwhichtherental

willtakeplaceareincompliance withalltheprovisionsofthisZoningLaw,other

applicableprovisionsoftheTownCode,

theNewYorkStateUniformFirePrevention

andBuildingCode,includinganyNewYorkStateCodeSupplements;

(f) therequiredbuildingpermitsandcertificatesofoccupancyareinplaceforall

existingstructuresontheproperty,ifapplicable;

(g) neitherthepropertynoranybuildingsthereonaresubjecttoan

existingwritten

NoticeofViolation,OrdertoRemedyorCeaseandDesistOrderissuedbytheCEO

orisbeingotherwiseusedinviolationoftheZoningLaw;and

(h) thattheinformationsetforthintheapplicationistrueandaccurate.

7. Anup‐to‐datecertificateofinsurancedocumenting

thatthedwellingisinsuredasa

short‐termorvacationrental.

8. LocalContact‐Thepropertyownershalldesignateintheapplicationalocalproperty

representativewhoshallbeavailable24hoursperday,seven(7)daysperweek,for

thepurposeof:(a)respondingwithinone(1)hour

tocomplaintsregardingthe

condition,operation,orconductofoccupantsoftheshort‐termrental;and(b)taking

promptremedialactiontoresolveanysuchcomplaints.Thename ,address,email

address,andtelephone(contactnumberoftheownerandthelocalproperty

representativeshallbekeptonfilewiththeTown

ClerkandtheTownofChatham

BuildingDepartment.

9. Supportingproof,asestablishedbytheTownBoard,thatthedwellingunitisthe

propertyowner’sdomicileforClass2and3short‐termrentaluses.

10. SuchotherinformationastheTownmayrequireprovingthepropertyissafefor

rentersandwillcomplywiththeZoningLaw’srequirementsforshort‐termrentaluse.

propertywhich,atthetimetheapplicationissubmitted:issubjecttoanexistingwritten

NoticeofViolation,OrdertoRemedy

orCeaseandDesistOrderissuedbytheCEO;oris

beingotherwiseusedinviolationoftheZoningLaw.



(10) Permitting.

(a) DurationofPermitandPermitRenewal.Allvalidlyissuedshort‐termrentalpermitsshall

remaininforceandeffectforaperiodofthree(3)yearsfrom

thedateofissuance.Permits

mayberenewedforandanadditionalthree(3)yearperioduponapplication,compliance 

withthisSectionandotherapplicableprovisions ofthisZoningLaw ,andpay mentofthe

requiredfee.

(b) SaleorTransferofProperty.Whereapropertyforwhichavalidpermit

hasbeenissuedis

soldduringthependencyofthepermit,thepermitmaycontinueinforceandeffectforthe

remainderofthepermitperiodprovidedthatthenewpropertyownershallfilewiththe

CEOanamendedapplicationcontaininganyupdatedinformation,anewcontactpersonif

thathas

changed,andanewcertificationwithinthirty(30)daysofthedateofthesale.For

propertieswithshort‐termrentalpermitsforeitheraClass2or3short‐termrental,thenew



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 195 

propertyownershallcertifythatthepropertywillbethepropertyowner’sdomicileas

definedherein.Theamendedapplicationshallbeaccompaniedbytherequiredapplication

feepertheTownFeeSchedule.Ifthenewpropertyownerfailstofileanamended

applicationwithinthethirty(30)dayperiodafter

thesale,theshort‐termrentalpermitshall

expireandbecomevoid.Forpropertieswithshort‐termrentalpermitsforeitheraClass3or

4,short‐termrentalmaynotbeconductedunlessbothpermitsarevalidandinforceand

effect.



(11) Inspection–Forallclassesof

short‐termrentaluses,beforeashort‐termrentalpermitisissued,

thereshallbeaninitialsafetyinspectionconductedbytheCEOtodeterminewhetherthe

propertytoberentedisincompliancewiththeZoningLawandallotherapplicableprovisionsof

theTownCode,theNewYorkState

UniformFirePreventionandBuildingCodeandanyNew

YorkStateCodeSuppleme nts. IftheCodeEnforcementOfficerdeterminesthattheshort‐term

rentalspaceisnotincompliance,noshort‐termrentalpermitshallbeissueduntiltheCEOhas

re‐inspectedthepropertyandit passestheinspection.

Aninspectionfeeshallberequiredforall

inspections,includingre‐inspections,oftheProperty.Propertiesshallalsobesubjectto

inspectionuponapplicationsfortherenewalofapermitalreadyissueduponthesameterms.

(12) Offstreetparkingshallbelocatedinthedriveway,rearorsideyard.The

minimumnumberof

parkingspacesshallbeonepereachroomtobeutili zed byrentersandthreefortheresident

owner/operatorandhisorherfamily.Carsmaybeparkedinemptygaragebaysdedicatedto

off‐siteparkingforshort‐termrentaltenants.



(13) Anyadvertisementofthe

property(bothonandoffline)andallrentalcontractsmustspecifythe

maximumrentalcapacityofthepropertyexpressedinnumberofrentersandthemaximum

numberofvehiclestobeallowedonthepropertyasper(12)ofthissubsection.



(14) IssuanceofShort‐termrentalpermits.

(a)TheCEOshallissuetheappropriateshort‐termrentalpermituponreceiptofacompleted

andsignedpermitapplicationwhichestablishescompliancewithallapplicableZoningLaw

requirements,therequir edcertificationandanyotherdocumentsorinformationrequired

byZoningLawSection

180‐58(Z),uponpassinginspectionoftheproperty bytheCEO,upon

paymentoftherequiredfee,andwhererequired,upontheissuancebythePlanningBoard

ofaspecialusepermit.AllpermitsshallbeinwritingandsignedbytheTownCEOandset

forththefollowinginformation:

Thedatethepermitisissued.

2. Thefullnameandaddressofthepermitholder.

3. Theaddressandtaxparcelnumberofthepropertytoberented.

4. Identificationoftheclassofshort‐termrentalpermitissued

5. Identificationandlocationofthebedroomsauthorizedtobe

rentedunderthePermit.

6. Thetotalmaximumrenteroccupancy.

7. Thecontactinformationforthe“LocalContact”person.

8. Theexpirationdateofthepermit.

(b) Thepermitshallbekeptbythepermitholderontherentedpropertyandshallbe

immediatelyavailableforproductionanddisplaytothe

CEOintheeventofaninspection.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 196 

(15) StandardsofOperationandConditionsforallPermits.

(a) Inorderforashort‐termrentalpermittoremainvalidandin forceuntilitsexpirationdate,

thepermitholdershallconformwiththeinformationsetforthontheapplicationatalltimes

andinallrespectscompletelycomply

withanyapplicableprovisionofthisSection18058(Z).

Failuretodososhallconstitute aviolationofthisZoningLawandthepermitholder shallbe

subjecttoenforcementpursuanttothisSectionandSection180‐66oftheZoningLaw.

(b) AllpermitsissuedtothisSection180‐58(Z)shall

beexpresslyconditioneduponcompliance

withthefollowingrequirementsatalltimesduringthependencyofthepermit:

1. Off‐streetparking.Allvehiclesoftenantsandthepropertyownersshallbeparkedin

designatedparkingareasasdepictedonthepermitapplication.

2. UseandoccupancybyTenants.Tenants

shallusetherentedpropertyfortenancyonly

andquietenjoymentoftherentedproperty.Otherusesofthepropertybytenantsare

prohibited,includingbutnotlimitedto,events,weddings,reunions,partiesorother

groupgatheringsofanykind.

3. Noise.Tenantsshallnotengageinanyactivitywhichgenerates

noisewhichshall

emanatebeyondthepropertybou ndaryoftherentedproperty.

4. Garbage.Garbagebedepositedandstoredinenclosedgarbagecontainersonthe

rentedpropertythatarenotwithinthepublicview,exceptthatcontainer(s)maybe

placedatthecurbforcollection24hourspriortothe

dateofcollection.Garbage

containershallberemovedfromthecurbandpublicviewwithin48hoursofcollection.

5. Trespass.Tenantsshallnottrespassonthepropertiesofadjacentpropertiesorany

otherproperty.

6. Othercon ductincompatiblewithresidentialandcommunitycharacter.Tenantsshall

notengageinanyconduct

oractivitywhichshallbeincompatiblewith,orshall

adverselyaffect,theexistingcommunitycharacterandatmosphereofthe

neighborhoodsurroundingtherentedpropertyoradverselyaffectthequietenjoyment

ofsurroundingpropertiesbytheirownersfornormalresidentialpurposes.

7. Conditionoftheproperty.Thepermitholdershallmaintain

thepropertysothatthe

informationprovidedtotheTownofChathamonthepermi tapplicationshall remain

accurateandvalidforsolongasthepermitisvalidandinforce.Thisshallinclude,but

notbelimitedto,keepingtheproperty inthesameconditionandstateofcompliance

it

wasinatthetimeitwasinspected,and keepingthepropertyinsuredwiththesame

coverageandpolicylimitaswasshownonthecertificateofinsurancesubmittedwith

thepermitapplication.Thepropertyshallotherwisebemaintainedinaconditionthat

doesnotadverselyaffect,theexisting

communitycharacterandatmosphereofthe

neighborhoodsurroundingtherentedpropertyoradverselyaffectthequietenjoyment

ofsurroundingpropertiesbytheirownersfornormalresidentialpurposes.

8. Thepermitholdershallkeepthedwellingusedforshort‐termrentalinsuredasashort‐

termrentalorvacationhome.

9. If

anyoftheinformationprovidedbythepermitholdertotheTownaspartofthe

permitapplicationchangesafterthepermitisissued,withtheexceptionoflocalcontact

person,itshallbeaconditionofthepermitthatthepermitholdershallnotifytheTown

CEOofany

suchchangesinwritingwithinthirty(30)calendardaysoftheoccurrenceof

thechange,



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 197 

10. ThepermitholdershallnotifytheTownCEOofchangesinthecontactinformationfor

the“LocalContact”identifi edonthepermitapplicationwithinfive(5)businessdaysof

theoccurrenceofthechange.

11. RecordsofShort‐TermRenters.Theownershallkeeparegisterlisti ngthenames,

address,phonenumberandemailaddressesofshort‐termrentersanddatesofrental

forthepreviousthree(3)yearsandshallmakesuchrecordavailabletotheCode

EnforcementOfficerforinspectionuponrequest.

12. InformationalPackettobeProvidedtoallShort‐Term.Thepropertyownershallprovide

and

shallpostconspicuouslyineachbedroomtoberented,guidelinesandrestrictions

applicabletotheshort‐termrentaluse,including:

a.Informationonmaximumoccupancy;

b. Applicablenoiseanduserestrictions;

c. Locationofoff‐streetparking;

d. Directionthattrashshallnotbestoredwithinpublicview,exceptwithin

proper

containersforthepurposeofcollection,andprovisionofthetrashcollection

schedule.Garbagereceptaclesshallnotbeleftinfrontofthehouseformorethan

48hoursaftercollection;

e. Contactinformationforthelocalpropertyrepresentative;

f. Evacuationroutes.

13. Anyadvertisementoftheproperty(bothon

andoffline)andallrentalcontractsmust

specifythemaximumrentalcapacityofthepropertyexpressedinnumberofrenters

andthemaximumnumberofvehiclestobeallowedonthepropertyasper(12)ofthis

subsection.

14. Ifaspecialuseper mitwasrequiredtobeissuedto

facilitatetherentalactivity

permittedbyapermitissuedpursuanttoZoningLawSection180‐58(Z),thepermit

holdershallcomplywithallrequirementsandconditionsofthespecialusepermit.

15. Thepropertyownershallcomplywiththeprovisionsofanycertificateofoccupancy

whichhasbeenissuedbythe

TownofChathamforthepropertytoberented.

16. Compliancewith TownofChathamCode.Thepermitholdershallremainincompliance

withallapplicableprovisionsoftheTownofChathamCode.AnyviolationoftheTown

Codeshallbedeemedabreachofanexpressionconditionofthe

permitissuedpursuant

toZoningLawSection180‐58(Z).

17. Illegalactivities.Tenantsshallnotengageinanyactivityontherentalpropertywhich

shallbeinviolationofthelawsoftheTownofChatham,theStateofNewYorkorthe

UnitedStatesofAmerica.



(16) Itshall

beaviolationofthisZoningLawtoengageintheshort‐termrentalusesdescribedin

ZoningLawSection180‐58(Z)withouthavingobtainedtherequiredpermitfromtheTownof

Chatham.



(17) ComplaintsandViolations.

(a) Subjecttotheexceptionssetforthherein,theCEOshallreceiveandinvestigatecomplaints

aboutallegedviolationsofthisZoningLawSection180‐58(Z)inaccordancewith the

proceduressetforthinZoningLawSection180‐66(J).

(b) Uponthereceiptofacomplaint,the

CEOshallcompleteawrittencomplaintform

prescribedbytheTowninordertomakearecordofthecomplaint.Thecomplaintform



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 198 

shall,ataminimum,describethetimeanddateofthecomplaint,identifythenameand

addressofthecomplainingperson,identifythepropertyaddresswhichisthesubjectofthe

complaint,andareasonabledescriptionoftheconditions and/orconductgivingrisetothe

complaint.Allwrittencomplaintforms

shallbefiledintherecordsoftheCEO.

thecomplaintforthepurposesofinvestigatingthecomplaint.TheCEOmayrequestthe

permitholder’swrittenregisteroftenantaspartofthe

investigationofthecomplaint.

(d) IftheCEOdeterminesthatthecomplaintestablishesaviolation,theCEOshallprovide

notificationoftheviolationbytelephonetotheLocalContactpersonlistedonthepermit

applicationformfiledwiththeTownforthepropertywhichisthesubjectofthecomplaint.

(e) Inadditiontothetelephonenotification,withinareasonabletimethereaftertheCEOshall

serveawrittencomplianceorderuponownerofsubjectpropertyinaccordancewiththe

provisionsofZoningLawSection180‐66,withacopyofthecomplianceorderalsosentto

theLocalContactpersonby

theCEOviaemailtotheemailaddressfortheLocalContact

listedonthepermitapplicationform.Thecontentofthecomplianceordershallbein

accordancewiththeprovisionsofZoningLawSection180‐66(M),exceptthattheprovisions

ofSection180‐66(M)(5)and(6)shallnotapply

asthetimeperiod forachievingcompliance

shallbeasissetforthinZoningLawshallbeassetforthinZoningLawSection180‐58(Z).

(f) BeginningatthetimethattheCEOprovidestelephonenotificationoftheviolationtothe

LocalContact,whetherthatbebytelephoneconversation

orbyvoicemessageifthe

telephoneisnotansweredbytheLocalContactwhentheCEOcalls,itshallbethe

affirmativeobligationofthepermitholdertotakecorrectiveactionwithinone(1)hourto

remedythebehaviorand/orconditiondescribedbytheCEOinthenotificationwhich

constitutestheviolation.

(g) Failurebythepermitholdertoremedyconditionand/orbehaviordescribedinthe

complianceordershallconstituteaviolation.Eachdaytheviolationremainsunremedied

shallconstituteaseparateviolation.





(18) RevocationofPermit.

(a)DiscretionaryRevocation.TheCEOisauthorizedtorevokeapermitissuedpursuantto

ZoningLawSection180‐58(Z)uponanyofthefollowinggrounds:

1. TheCEOdeterminesthatthepermitwasissuedinerror,orissuedbasedontheCEO’s 

reliance,inwholeor

inpart,uponfalse,inaccurate,ormisleadinginformationand/or

documentationsetforthonthepermitapplicationoronanydocumentsubmittedin

associationwiththepermitappli cation . 

2. ForClass2and3short‐termrentaluse,thepropertyfailstobetheproperty owner’s

domicileassuchisdefined

herein.

3. FailuretocomplywithanyoftheStandardsofOperationandConditionsofPermitsas

setforthinZoningLawSection180‐58(Z)(16).

(b) MandatoryRevocation.IntheeventthattheCEOissuesthree(3)writtencomplianceorders

tothesamepermitholder , uponissuanceof thethirdorder

ofcompliance,itshallbe

mandatorythatthepermitberevokedbytheCEO.TheCEOshallhavenodiscretion

regardingrevocationofthepermitinthesecircumstances.Intheeventofama ndatory 

permitrevocationpursuanttothisprov ision,thepropertyforwhichtherevokedpermithad

beenissued

shallbedisqualifiedfromapplyingforanewpermitunderZoningLawSection

180‐58(Z)foraperiodoftwo(2)yearsbeginningfromthedateofrevocation.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 199 

revocationshallbeinwritingandshallcontainthefollowingcontent:

1. Thedateofrevocation.

2. TheidentityoftheCEOandshallsetforththesignatureoftheCEO.

3. The

addressandtaxparcelnumberof thepropertyforwhichthepermitwasissued.

4. ThePermitNumberorotheridentifyingcode,ifapplicable.

5. Adescriptionofthereasonforrevocation.

6. Specificationoftheprovision(s)oftheZoningLawuponwhichtherevocationisbased.

(d) TheCEOshall

servethenotificationofrevocationuponthepermitholderbycertifiedmail

withacopysentviaemailtothepersonidentifiedastheLocalContactonthepermit

applicationonfilewiththeTown.

(e) Uponissuanceofanoticeofrevocation,thepermitshallbecomenullandvoid

andthe

permitholdershallimmediatelyceaseallrentaluseactivityunderthepermit.Anyrentaluse

activityconductedafterthedateofrevocationshallbeprohibitedandaviolationofthis

ZoningLaw.

(f) TherevocationofthepermitshallbeappealabletotheTownofChathamZoningBoardof



AppealsinaccordancewiththeprovisionsofArticleVIIoftheZoningLaw.



(19) OtherEnforcement.

(a) CEOAuthority&Remedies.InenforcingtheprovisionsofthisZoningLawSection180‐58(Z),

theCEOshallhavetheenforcementauthority,andtheauthoritytopursueanyremedies,as

aresetforth

inthatSection,includingtheauthoritytorevokeapermit.Inaddition,theCEO

shallalsohavetheenforcementauthority,andtheauthoritytopursueremedies,asareset

forthinZoningLawSection180‐66,includingbutnotlimitedto,issuanceofappearance

tickets,civilpenalties.

(b) CivilPenalties.

NotwithstandingtheprovisionsofZoningLawSection180‐66(O),inaddition

toanypenaltiesauthorizedbyStatelaw,anypersonwhoviolatesanyprovisionofZoning

LawSection180‐58(Z)shallbeliableforacivilpenaltyinanamountof$500foreachday,or

partthereof,duringwhichsuch

violationcontinues.Thiscivilpenaltyshallberecoverablein

ananylegalactioninstitutedbytheTownofChathamarisingfromsuchviolation.



(20) Short‐TermRentalsExistingPriortoAdoptionDateofthisLocalLaw

(a) ZoningLawSection180‐9states:“Nobuildingorlandshallhereafterbe

usedoroccupied,

andnobuildingorpartthereofshallbeerected,movedoraltered,unlessinconformitywith

theregulationshereinspe cifiedforthedistrictinwhichitislocated.”Priortotheadoption

ofthislawcontainingSection180‐58(Z),short‐termrentalsandinvestmentpropertyrentals

have

notbeenlistedamongtheallowedusesofanyprecedingzoninglawintheTownof

Chatham.Thus,priortotheadoptionofthislawthoseuseswereprohibitedin theTownof

Chathamandwereillegaluses,andthusshallnotqualifyasnonconformingusesuponthe

adoptionofthis

ZoningLaw.

(b) Temporaryamnesty.Anypropertyownerengagedinshort‐termrentalusepriortothe

adoptionofthisZoningLawmaycontinuethatusewithoutapermitforaperiodofsix(6)

monthsbeginningontheeffectivedateofthisZoningLawandnoenforcementactionshall

betakenbytheCEOduringthatperiodforconductingtheusewithoutapermit.Uponthe

expirationofthesix(6)monthperiod,allshort‐termrentalusesintheTownofChatham

shallonlybeconductedpursuanttoavalidpermitissuedpursuanttotheapplicableterms



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 200 

ofthisSection180‐58(Z).Beyondthistemporarysix(6)monthamnesty,thereshallbeno

grandfatheringofanyshort‐termrentalusesconductedpriortotheadoptionofthisZoning

Law.





AA.PrivateSchool



InRLdistricts,publicbuildingsshallprovideforalandscapedand/orfencedbufferwhenadjacentto

residences.Buildingsshallnottoexceed20,000squarefeet.Trafficgeneratedbytheprivateschool

shallnottoadverselyimpactexistingunpavedroads.



BB.WaterStorageFacility

Thereshallbeabufferwithneighboringresidencesprovidedfor.Elevatedstorageunitsshallbe

allowedonlywhenavisualimpactstudyshowsvisualimpactsareminimizedand/ormitigated.No

waterstoragefacilityshallbeplacedinanyEPODoverlaydistrict.



CC.Pond

ThePlanningBoard,initsreviewofapond,whetherforfarmpondorresidentialorothernon‐farm

pond,shallconsider:



(1) Possibleoverlanddrainagechangesthatmayoccurafterconstruction.



(2) Impactstonearbystreamsorwetlands,ortheirhabitats, iftheimpoundmentcaptureswater

fromthosefeatures.



(3) Impactsofsedimentationfromupstreamareas.



(4) Changesindrainagepatter ns.



(5) Visualimpactofimpoundmentfromroadorotherpublicplace.



(6) Spillwaycapacityandsizetoensurethatitisadequatetohandlefloodwatersandprevent

erosionorwashoutofimpoundment.



(7) Whetherpond

constructionorfishstockingpermitsarenecessaryandapproved.



(8) Impactofpondpesticideuse,ifany.



(9) Impactonnearbyadjacentprotectedresources,ifany.



DD.SwimmingPools

(1) Noswimmingpool,asdefinedbytheResidentialCodeofNewYorkState,shallbebuilt,

assembled,erectedorfilledintheTownofChathamwithoutabuildingpermitissuedbythe



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 201 

CodeEnforcementOfficer.Eachapplicationforabuilding permitshallincludeaplotplanofthe

lotuponwhichtheswimmingpoolistobebuilt,andsuchplanshallincludeexistingstructures

andlotlines.



(2) Privateswimmingpoolsmaybeerectedorinstalledonlyasanaccessorytoadwelling,private

club,communitybuildingorcommercialstructurefortheuseoftheowner(s)oroccupant(s)and

family(ies)guestsand/orinvitee.Suchswimmingpoolshallnotbeerectednearerthan12feet

totherear

or15feettothesidepropertylinesofthelotandshallnotoccupymorethan10%of

theareaofthelotonwhichsameislocatedandshallinallotherrespectscomplywiththis

chapter.



(3) FencesandgatesmustcomplywiththeResidentialCodeofNewYorkState.



(4) Afilter‐recirculatingpumpandpurificationsystemshallbeprovidedsoastomaintainthe

bacterialstandardestablishedbytheprovisionsoftheNewYorkStateSanitaryCoderelatingto

publicswimmingpools.



(5) Noartificiallightingshallbemaintainedoroperatedinconnectionwithanyswimmingpool

presentlyconstructedorinstalledorhereafterconstructedorinstalledinsuchmannerasto

unreasonablyinterferewiththeoccupantsofanyneighboringproperty.



(6) Theuseofmegaphones,loudspeakersorpublic‐address systemsisprohibitedinconnection

withswimmingpoolshereinregulated,andtheuseofanysoundproducingorreproducing

devices,includinghumanvoices,shallnotbesuchastobeobjectionabletotheoccupantsofany

neighboringproperty.





EE.RetailSales

(1) Themaximumbuildingfootprintofastructureusedforretailsalesshallbe20,000squarefeetin

theBusiness(B)districtand30,000squarefeetintheIndustrial(I)district.



(2) Allcommercialdesignstandardspursuantto180‐31shallbemet.



FF.Multi‐UnitResidentialDwelling

(1) Theallowabledensityforamulti‐unitresidentialdwellingshallbethesameasthedensity

allowedforanyresidentialuseinthedistrict.



(2) Anymulti‐unitresidentialdwellingthatincludesthreeormoreseparatestructurescontaining

residentialunitsshallbedesignedpursuanttotheconservationsubdivisiondesignrequirements

ofChapter135‐3,135‐4,and135‐5oftheTownofChathamcode.



(3) Anymulti‐unitdwellingthatexistsatthetimeofenactmentofthischaptermay continueto

exist;however,anystructuralmodifications,improvementsorchangestothatdwellingmust

conformtotheprovisionsofthischapterandtheNewYorkStateUniformFirePreventionand

BuildingCode.Allnew

multipledwellingsshallmeettherequirementsofthissub‐section. 



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 202 



(4) Whereallowed,aspecialusepermitshallberequired,includingsiteplanreviewandapproval.



(5) Allmulti‐unitdwellingsshallhavenoless thantwoparkingspacesperdwellingunit.Parking

areasforsuchdwellingsshallbetothesideorrearofthebuildingtothemaximumextent

feasible.Frontyardparkingmaybeallowedonlywhenlotconfigurationdoesnotallowfor

itto

beonthesideortotherear.Innoinstanceshallparkingbelocatedwithintheminimumfront

yardsetback.



(6) DevelopmentStandards.



(a) PedestrianCirculation:Aclearlydefined,visible,andidentifiablepedestriannetworkshall

beprovidedbetweenparkingspaces,openspaces,recreationalfacilities,andindividual

buildingswithinthedevelopmentsiteandconnectedtoadja centpublicstreetsidewalks

andpublicparks,openspaces,andcommunityfacilities.



(b) Themaximumlengthofanyindividualbuildingcontainingmulti‐unitdwellingunitsshallbe

200linearfeet,regardlessofthenumberofunits.





(7) Thedesignofmulti‐unitdwellingsshallemulateasingle‐familyresidence.Buildingdetails

includingroofforms,sidingmaterials,windows,doors,andtrimshallreflectasimilarlevelof

qualityandarchitecturaldetailingonallsidesfacingastreet.Thestreet‐facingfrontfaçadesof

buildingsshallbearticulated

withwalloffsets(e.g.,projectionsorrecessesinthefaçadeplane)

thatareatleasttwofeetdeepandspacednomorethan30feetapart.Inadditiontowall

offsets,street‐facingfrontfaçadesshallprovideatleastthreeofthefollowingarticulation

elements:

(a) Acoveredporch;



(b) Arecessedentrance;



(d) Pillars,posts,orpilasters;



(e) Oneormorebaywindowsprojectingatleast12inchesfromthefaçadeplane;



(f) Eavesprojectingatleastfourinchesfromthefaçadeplane;



(g) Raisedcornicedparapetsovertheentrancedoor;



(h) Multiplewindows withatrimatleastfourincheswide;



(i) Integralplantersthatincorporatelandscapedareasorplacesforsitting.



(j) Sidefaçadesshallmaintainatleast20percentofthefaçadeareaaswindows.





(8) Principalbuildingsshallincorporateroofpitchesbetween3:12and12:12orincorporatea

parapetatleastthreefeethighwithathree‐dimensionalcornicearoundaflatroof.Alternative

roofformsorpitchesmaybeallowedforsmallroofsectionsoverporches,entryways,orsimilar

features.Allroofvents,

pipes,antennas,satellitedishes,andotherroofpenetrationsand

equipment(exceptchimneys)shallbelocatedontherearelevationsorotherwisebeconfigured,

tothedegreepracticable,tohaveaminimalvisualimpactasseenfromthestreet.

(9) Garagesshallbelocatedtothesideorrearofthe

building(s)containingthedwellings.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 203 

GG.Hotel/Motel

(1) ThePlanningBoardshallfindthattheproposedusewillnotadverselyaffectpropertyvalues

andisconsistentwiththeobjectivesofthezoningdistrict.

(2) Allhotelsandmotelsshallmeetthecommercialdesignstandardsof180‐31.

(3) Detailedsiteplansshowingbuildinglocation,parking,trafficflow,buffer

areas,proposed

compatible,ancillaryoraccessoryuses,buildingheights,aggregatehotel squarefootage,

aggregateancillaryoraccessorybuildingsquarefootage,overallsignagedesignplan,etc.shall

besubmittedforreview.Siteplanandspecial useapprovalmaybegranteduponfindingthat:

(a) Thesiteplanisdesignedtominimize

trafficcongestionfromingressandegress;

(b) Theproposedusewillnotcreatetrafficproblemswithintheproposedareaofuse;

landscapingandground‐stormwatermanagementsystemcomplywithapplicable

provisionsofthischapter;

(d) Thesiteplanincludes

adequateprovisionsonsiteforsuitablestorageoftrash,refuse

andwastesoastoallownoviewofthetrashfromoffsite,topreventtrash,refuseand

wastefromblowingaroundthesiteoruntoadjacentpropertiesorstructuresandto

permitsafeandeasyremovalbytruck

orhand.

(e) Theproposedusew ill adverselyaffecttrafficorchangethecharacterofand

maintenanceneedsoftheroaduponwhichitfrontsandreceivesaccessfrom.

(4) Restaurant,conference,andbar/drinking maybepermittedasaccessoryorancillaryuses.

Suchaccessoryorancillaryusesshallconformtoall

regulationssetforthinthischapter.All

accessoryusesshallbeallowableusesaspertheUseTable.

(5) Allexteriorlightingshallbesodesignedanddirectedasto:

(a) Causenohazardtotheoperationofvehiclesonpublicstreets;and

(b) Causenoannoyanceorhin dranceto

theoccupantsorusersofnearbyproperties.

(6) Allportionsofthesite,includinglandscaping,ground‐andstormwatermanagementsystems,

shallbemaintainedinasafe,neatandcleancondition.



HH.DayCampsandCampgrounds

(1) LargedaycampsshallonlyhaveaccessfromaCountyorStatehighwaywithintheTown of

Chatham.SmallandIncidentalDayCampsdonotrequireaccessonlyfromaCountyorState

highway.



(2) CampgroundsasdefinedinthislocallawmayhaveaccessfromanyTown,County

orState

highway.



(3) SmallandLargedaycampsandcampgroundsshallhaveaminimumlotsizeof50acres.

Incidentaldaycampsmayhavelessthan50acres.



(4) Alldaycampsandcampgroundsshallprovide10,000squarefeetoflotareaforeachtent,

cabin,orotherprincipal

buildingand3,000squarefeetperpersonaccommodated.A



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 204 

Campgroundshallhaveamaximumofthreecampsitesand nomorethan10peopleper

campsite.



(5) DayCampandCampgroundDevelopmentStandards

(a) Nocampsiteorcampingunitshallbelocatedcloserthan50feettothestreetright‐of‐

wayoranyadjacentpropertyline.

(b)

ThePlanningBoardmayrequirescreeningtobeplacedbetweenthedaycampor

campgroundandanyadjacentresidentialproperty.Allapprovedscreeningshallbe

maintainedafterplacementbythecampgroundoperator.

provided

oneachsiteforplacementofthecampingunit.

(d) Campgroundsshallbeservicedbyamunicipalorapprovedprivatewaterandsanitary

sewagedisposalsystem,reviewedandpermittedasperNewYorkStateDepartmentof

Healthrequirementsandconsistentwithanyotherlocalorcountylaws.Temporarybath

housesor

portabletoiletsshallberemovedattheendofeachseason.Electricandcable

connectionsmaybeprovidedforeachcampgroundsiteatthediscretionofthe

applicant.Acampgroundshallhaveanadequatesupplyofpotablewatercomplyingwith

NewYorkStateDepartmentofHealthregulations.Awatersystem

forallcampsitesmay

beprovidedfor.Ifcampground‐widewatersourcesarenotsuppliedforindividual

campsites,thenawatersourceshallbeprovided.

(e) Entrancesandexitstocampgroundsorrecreationalvehiclecampgroundsshallbe

designedforsafeandconvenientmovementoftrafficintoandoutofthefacility

andto

minimizefrictionwithfreemovementoftrafficonadjacentstreets.Alltrafficintoorout

ofthecampgroundshallbethroughsuchentrancesandexits,whichshallbelimitedtoa

maximumoftwoexceptwheresafetydemandsandthePlanningBoardhasapprovedthe

same.ThePlanning

Boardshallpayparticularattentiontoroadaccessandsafetyduring

siteplanreview.

(f) Nocampsiteshallbedesignedorusedforpermanentoryear‐roundoccupancy.

(g) Nocampsiteshallbeoccupiedformorethan180days(typicallyMay1throughOctober

31).Nocampgroundshallbethe

primaryandprincipalresidenceofanyoccupant.

(h) Noowneroroccupantofanyindividualcampsitewithinthedaycamporcampground

shallpermitorallowthedumpingorplacementofanysanitaryorotherwasteanywhere

withinthedevelopment,exceptinplacesdesignatedtherefor.

(i) Nonoxiousoroffensive

activitiesornuisancesshallbepermittedonanycampsiteor

anywherewithinsuchdevelopments.Suchnuisancesshallinclude,butnotbelimitedto;

(1)noisewhichexceeds65decibelsasmeasuredatallpropertyboundarylines;and(2)

uncontrolledfiresorrepeatedburning(exceptforcampfires)whichresultsinsoot,

cinders,

smoke,noxiousfumes,gasesorunusualodorsemanatingbeyondtheproperty

lineofthedevelopment.

(j) Noloudspeaker,publicaddresssystemoramplifyingdeviceshallbepermittedin

connectionwithanydaycamporcampground,whichcanbeheardbeyondthebounds

ofthepropertylotwheretheuseis

located.Thereshallbenomusicafter11PM.

(k) Picnictables,benches,storagesheds,fireboxesorfireplacesandsimilaritemsof

personalpropertymaybeplacedonacampsite.Allsuchitemsshallberemovedatthe

endofthecampingseason.Allpersonalpropertyonacampgroundshallbe

maintained

ingoodconditionsoasnottobecomeunsightly.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 205 

(l) Everydaycamporcampgroundshallbeaccessiblebyfireandemergencyequipmentand

shallbemaintainedinsuchcondition,freeofobstaclestoaccess.ThePlanningBoard

shallconsultwithemergencyservicespriortositeplanandspecialuseapprovalto

ensureemergencyaccess.

(m) Exteriorlightingfor

theconvenienceandsafetyofcampersshallmeetallrequirements of

thislocallawandshallbefullyshieldedanddirecteddownwardtopreventlighttrespass

beyondthepropertyboundaryline.

(n) Incidentaldaycampsserving300ormorepeopleshallmeetallrequirementsofChapter

72oftheTownof

ChathamCode(AssembliesandGatherings,MassPublic).



II. UseofRecreationalVehiclesforPersonalUse.

(1) Incidentaloccupationofarecreationalvehiclewhenparkedataprincipalresidenceandused

bysuchownerortheirguestsisallowedasapermitteduseinallzoningdistricts.



(2) Norecreationalvehicleshallbeusedforcommercialpurposesasacampsiteorina

campground.



(3)

Useofarecreationalvehicleformorethan30daysbutlessthansixmonthsshallbe

consideredatemporarylivingstructureandshallrequireabuildingpermit.Potablewaterand

wastewatertreatmentapprovedbytheColumbiaCountyDepartmentofHealthshallbe

required.Thebuildingpermitmayberenewed

foronesix‐monthtimeperiod.



(4) Noparkingofanyrecreationalvehicleshallbeallowedwithinanyrequiredfront,sideorrear

yardsetback.



JJ. ElectricVehicleChargingStation.NopersonshallinstallanElectricVehicleChargingStationwithin

theTownwithoutapermitissuedfromtheBuildingDepartment.ChargingStationpermitsshallexpire

andbecomeinvalidunlesstheauthorizedinstallationiscompletedwithinsixmonthsofwritten

approval.Uponcompletionofaninstallation,thepermitteemustcontacttheCodeEnforcement

Officer,andarrangeaninspectionofthechargingstation

toensurecompliancewithallfederal,state,

andlocallaws.TheapplicationforapermitshallbeTwoHundredDollars($200.00).



(1) ThefollowingrequirementsshallapplytoallElectricVehicleChargingStations.

(a) AllinstallationsmustcomplywithNationalElectricCode,NFPA70,andArticle625.

(b) AllinstallationsmustcomplywiththeNewYorkStateBuildingCode,NewYorkState

ResidentialCode,NewYorkStateExistingBuildingCode,New

YorkStateFireCode,New

YorkStatePlumbingCode,NewYorkStateMechanicalCode,NewYorkStateFuelGas

Code,andtheNewYorkStateEnergyConservationConstructionCode.

providingelectricpowertotheproperty.

(d)

Eachelectricvehiclechargingstationshallincludevehicleimpactprotection(bollards)

orasimilarstructure.

(e) Componentsforelectricvehiclechargingstationmayencroachupto36inchesintoa

requiredsetbackorbuffer.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 206 

(f) Nomorethanonechargingstationmaybeinstalledonanyparcelexceptforthe

BusinessandIndustrialDistrict,wheretwochargingstationsmaybeinstalledoneach

parcel.AdditionalstationsshallrequireaspecialusepermitbythePlanningBoard.

(g) Notwithstandinganyregulationtothecontrary,Electric

VehicleChargingshallbea

permittedaccessoryuseinallzoningdistricts.



(2) Anypersonwhoviolatesthissubsectionorfailstocomplywithanyofitsrequirementsshall

besubjecttorevocationofthechargingstationpermitand/orthepenaltiesprovidedin§180‐

66oftheCodeof

theTownofChatham.

 



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 207 

ARTICLEVI.NonconformingUses



§180‐59.Continuationofexistinguses,buildings,structuresorparcels.

Thelawfuluse,building,structureorparcelinlawfulexistenceatthetimeofenactmentofthislocallaw

oranysubsequentamendments,maybecontinued,althoughsuchusedoesnotconformwiththe

provisionsofthischapteroranypriorzoninglawoftheTownofChatham.



§180‐60.Discontinuance.

Exceptforfarmoperations,whenanyexistingnonconforminguseoflandorbuildingshasbeen

discontinuedfortwoyears,thelandand buildingsshallthereafterbeusedonlyinconformitytothis

chapter.However,thePlanningBoard,uponapplicationbytheownerandafterapublichearing,may

permittheresumption

ofsaidnonconforminguseutilizingthegeneralspecialusestandardsofthis

Chapter.Nosuchapplicationshallbeconsideredorgrantedafterfiveyearsfollowingthe

discontinuance.



§180‐61.Changes.

Oncechangedtoaconforminguse,nouse,buildingorlandshallbepermitted toreverttoa

nonconforminguse.However,ifthesolenon‐conformityisrelatedtothebulk(minimumsetback,yard,

etc.)ofaparcelorabuildingonaparcel,thenintheeventsuchbuildingis

destroyed,itmayonlybe

rebuiltwithinoneyearonthesamefootprintofthepriorbuilding.



§180‐62.Cessation.

A. Notwithstandinganyotherprovisionsofthischapter,anynonconformingautomobilewrecking

yard,junkyardorbillboardinexistenceonMarch10,1988,becameaprohibitedandunlawfuluseas

ofMarch10,1991,exceptthatajunkyardmaycontinueasanonconforminguseifwithinthat

perioditismaintainedin

accordancewiththestandardssetandenforcedbytheStateofNewYork

andalsoinaccordancewiththestandardsrequiredbytheTownBoard.



§180‐63.Expansion.

Anynonconforminguseorbuildingmaybeexpandeduptoanadditional1/3oftheexistingsize,

whethermeasuredbysize,volumeorintensity,atthetimeoftheadoptionofthischapterasaspecial

use,followinganapplicationtothePlanningBoard,includingapublichearing,utilizingthespecial

use

standardsandcurrentsiteplanrequirementsoftheparticularzone.



§180‐64.Fire.

Anybuildinghousinganonconforminguseburnedbyfiremaybereplacedonthesamebuilding

footprintwithinthree(3)yearsifnotover80%destroyed.Anysuchdamagedbuildingshallbe

removedassoonaspracticable.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 208 

ARTICLEVII.AdministrationandEnforcement



§180‐65.ZoningBoardofAppeals.

A. Purpose.AZoningBoardofAppealsshallbemaintainedandoperateinaccordancewithArticle16

oftheNewYorkStateTownLaw,Sections267,267‐aand267‐b.TheZoningBoardofAppealsshall

havealloftheauthority,jurisdictionanddutiesgrantedtosuchBoardsbySections

267,267‐a,267‐

bandanyotherapplicableStatelaw,andshallfulfillitsdutiesinaccordancewiththosegrantsof

authorityandinaccordancewiththisLocalLaw.



B. Membership. TheBoardshallconsistoffive(5)membersappointedbytheTownBoardfor

staggeredtermsoffive

(5)calendaryears.



(1) AllmembersandalternatemembersoftheZoning BoardofAppealsshallberesidentsofthe

TownofChatham.NopersonwhoisamemberoftheTownBoardshallbeeligiblefor

membershipontheZoningBoardofAppeals.



(2) TheTownBoardmay

appointatleastone(1)personasanAlternateMemberoftheZoning

BoardofAppealsforatermoffivecalendaryears.AllprovisionsofthisLocalLawrelatingto

zoningboardmembertrainingandcontinuingeducation,attendance,conflictofinterest,

compensation,eligibility,vacancyinoffice,removal,andserviceon

otherboardsshallalsoapply

toalternatemembers.TheChairpersonoftheZoningBoardofAppealsmaydesignatethe

alternatemembertosubstituteforamemberwhoisunabletoparticipateindeliberationsand

decisionsoftheZoningBoardofAppealsduetoconflictofinterestonanapplicationor

matter

beforetheBoard.ThatdesignationoftheAlternateMembershallbeenteredintotheminutes

oftheinitialZoningBoardofAppealsmeetingatwhichthesubstitutionismade.Whenso

designated:thealternatemembershall possessallthepowersandresponsibilitiesofsuch

memberoftheboard;shallbe

allowedtoparticipateindiscussionsoftheproceedings;andshall

beallowedtovote.Atallothertimes,anAlternateMembermayparticipateindiscussionsof

theproceedingsbu tmaynotvoteexceptduetothedisqualificationofaregularmemberanda

designationofsubstitutionbytheChairperson.



Trainingandattendancerequirements.

(1) EachmemberoftheZoningBoardofAppealsandeachAlternateMembershallcomplete,ata

minimum,four(4)hoursoftrainingeachyeardesignedtoenable suchmemberstomore

effectivelycarryouttheirduties.Traini ngreceivedbyamemberinexcessoffour

(4)hoursin

anyone(1)yearmaybecarriedoverbythememberintosucceedingyearsinordertomeetthis

requirement.



(2) TobeeligibleforreappointmenttotheBoard,amemberoralternatemembershallhave

completedtherequiredtraining.



D. Vacancyinoffice.Ifavacancy

shalloccurotherthanbyexpirationofterm,theTownBoardshall

appointanewmemberfortheunexpiredterm.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 209 

E. Removalofmembers.TheTownBoardmayremove,afterpublichearing,anymemberoralternate

memberoftheZoningBoardofAppealsforcause.Causeforremovalofamemberoralternate

membermayincludeoneormoreofthefollowing:

(1) Anyundisclosedorunlawfulconflictofinterest.



(2) Failuretoattend33%ofthemeetingsduringthecourseofonecalendaryear.



(3) Failuretocompletemandatorytrainingrequirements.



F. Chairperson.TheTownBoardshallappointoneoftheZoningBoardofAppealsmembersas

chairpersontopresideatallmeetingsandhearingsandtofulfill

theauthorizeddutiesofthatoffice.

TheChairpersonshallannuallyappointoneoftheZoningBoardofAppealsmembersasVice

Chairperson.IntheabsenceoftheChairperson,theViceChairpersonshallactasChairpersonand

shallhaveallthepowersoftheChairperson.TheViceChairpersonshallhavesuchother

powers

anddutiesasmaybeprovidedbytherulesoftheBoard.AllmeetingsoftheZoningBoardof

AppealsshallbeheldatthecalloftheChairpersonandatsuchothertimesastheboardmay

determine.TheChairperson,orinhisorherabsence,theActing

Chairperson,mayadministeroaths

toapplicants,witnesses,orothersappearingbeforetheboardandmaycompeltheattendanceof

witnesses.



G. ZoningBoardofAppealsClerkandPublicRecord.UponrecommendationbytheZoningBoardof

AppealsincoordinationwiththePlanningBoard,theTownBoardshallappointaZoning

Boardof

AppealsClerkwhoshallattendallproceedingsoftheZoningBoardofAppealsand,uponrequest,

theproceedingsofanyofitscommittees.



(1) TheZBAClerkshallkeepminutesoftheproceedingsoftheZoningBoardofAppeals,showing

thevoteofeachmemberuponeveryquestion,

orifabsentorfailingtovote,indicatingthatfact,

andshallalsokeeprecordofitsexaminationsandotherofficialactions.



(2) TheZBAClerkshallkeepafileofallrecordsoftheZoningBoardofAppeals,andthoserecords

shallbepublicrecordsopentoinspectionat

reasonabletimesanduponreasonablenotice.



H. BoardofAppealsprocedure.

(1) Meetings,minutes,records.MeetingsoftheZoningBoardofAppealsshallbeopentothe

public,inaccordancewiththerequirementsoftheOpenMeetingsLaw,exceptforrecords

exemptedfromdisclosureundertheNewYorkStatePublic

OfficersLaw(Freedomof

InformationLaw)ordocumentswhichareprotectedbyattorney‐clientprivilege.TheZoning

BoardofAppealsshallkeepminutesofitsproceedings,showingthevoteofeachmemberupon

everyquestion,orifabsentorfailingtovote,indicatingsuchfact,andshallalsokeeprecordsof



itsexaminations andotherofficialactions.



(2) Filingrequirements.Everyrule,regulation,everyamendmentorrepealthereof,andevery

order,requirement,decisionordeterminationoftheZoningBoardofAppealsshallbefiledin

theofficeofthetownclerkwithinfive(5)businessdaysandshallbeapublic

record.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 210 

(3) AssistancetoZoningBoardofAppeals.TheBoardshallhavetheauthoritytocalluponany

department,agencyoremployeeofthetown(e.g.theBuildingDepartmentorConservation

AdvisoryCouncil)forsuchassistanceastheBoarddeemsnecessary.Allcostsincurredbyany

department,agencyoremployeefor

providingassistanceinaparticularproceedingshallbe

bornebytheapplicanttotheextentpermittedbylaw.



(4) Jurisdiction.ThejurisdictionoftheZoningBoardofAppealsshallbeappellateonlyandshallbe

limitedtohearinganddecidingappealsfromandreviewinganyorder,requirement,decision,

interpretation,or

determinationmadebytheadministrativeofficialchargedwiththe

enforcementofanyordinanceorlocallawadoptedpursuant toArticle16ofNewYorkState

TownLaw.Forthepurposesofthislaw,theadministrativeofficialchargedwithenforcement

shallincludetheCodeEnforcementOfficer.Whereaproposedspecialuse,site

plan,or

subdivisioncontainsoneormorefeatureswhichdonotcomplywiththezoningregulations,

applicationmaybemadetotheZoningBoardofAppealsforanareavariancewithoutthe

necessityofadecisionordeterminationbytheCodeEnforcementOfficer.



(5) PowersoftheBoard.TheZoning

BoardofAppealsshallhavethepowertograntuseandarea

variancesuponappealfromadecisionordeterminationbytheCodeEnforcementOfficerand

alsoonappeal,tointerprettheprovisionsofthisZoningLaw.TheZoningBoardofAppealsmay,

onappeal,reverseoraffirm,whollyor

partly,ormaymodifyanyorder,requirement,de cision,

interpretationordeterminationoftheEnforcementOfficer,andshallmakesuchorder

requirement,decision,interpretationordetermination,asinitsopinion, ought tohavebeen

madeinthematterbytheEnforcementOfficerandtothatendshallhavethepowersofthe



EnforcementOfficer..



(6) Filingofadministrativedecisionandtimeofappeal.



(a) Eachorder,requirement,decision,in terpretationordeterminationoftheEnforcement

OfficerchargedwiththeenforcementoftheTownofChathamZoningLawshallbefiledin

theofficeofsuchEnforcementOfficer,withinfive(5)business

daysfromthedayitis

renderedandshallbeapublicrecord.

(b) Allappealsmustbetakenwithinsixty(60)daysafterthefilingofanyorder,requirement,

decision,interpretationordeterminationoftheCodeEnforcementOfficerbyfilingwiththe

CodeEnforcementOfficerandwiththeZoningBoard

ofAppealsanoticeofappeal.The

noticeofappealshall:specifythegroundsforsuchappeal;thereliefsought;identify

specificallythesectionoftheZoningLaworothercodeorlawinvolved;describeprecisely

andindetaileithertheinterpretationclaimedorthevarianceorotherreliefthat

issought

andthegroundsuponwhichitisclaimedthereliefshouldbegranted.Thenoticeofappeal

shallbeaccompaniedbyashortorfullEnvironmentalAssessmentFormasrequiredbythe

StateEnvironmentalQualityReviewAct(SEQRA),byanAgriculturalDataStatementas

requiredbyNYAML25

‐aa,andbyotherdocumentsrelevanttotheappealspecifiedbythe

ZoningBoardofAppeals.Theappellantshallalsoberequiredtopayafilingfeeatthetime

ofthefilingoftheappealinanamounttobeestablishedbytheTownBoard.Uponreceiving

anotice

ofappeal,theEnforcementOfficershall tran smittotheZoningBoardofAppealsall

papersconstitutingtherecorduponwhichtheactionappealedfromwastaken.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 211 

(7) Stayuponappeal.Anappealshallstayallproceedingsinfurtheranceoftheactionappealed

fromunlesstheEnforcementOfficerdeterminesandcertifiesinwritingtotheZoningBoardof

Appeals,afterthenoticeofappealhasbeenfiledwiththeEnforcementOfficer,thatbyreason

offactsstated

inthecertificate,astaywould,inhisorheropinion,causeimminentperiltolife

orproperty,inwhichcaseproceedingsshallnotbestayedotherthanbyarestrainingorder

grantedbytheZoningBoardofAppealsorbyacourtofrecordonapplication,onnoticetothe



EnforcementOfficerfromwhomtheappealistakenandonduecauseshown.

(8) PublicHearing.TheZoningBoardofAppealsshallfixareasonabletimeforthehearingofthe

appealorothermatterreferredtoit.Theappellantandanyotherpartiestotheappealshallbe

given

writtennoticeofthehearingdateandofthefactthatatsuchhearingheorshemay

appearinpersonorberepresentedbyanattorneyorotheragent.Saidnoticeshallbeprovided 

atleastten(10)daysinadvanceofthehearingandshallbeprovided tothe

appellantby

certifiedmail.TheZoningBoardofAppealsshalladditionallyprovidenoticeasf o llows:



(a) TheZoningBoardofAppealsshallgivepublicnoticeofsuchpublichearingbypublicationin

anofficialpaperofgeneralcirculationinthetownandtownwebsiteatleastten(10)days

prior

tothedatethereof.Thecostofsendingorpublishinganynoticesrelatingtosuch

appeal,orareasonablefeerelatingthereto,shallbebornebytheappealingpartyandshall

bepaidtotheBoardpriortothehearingofsuchappeal.Uponthehearing,anypartymay

appear

inperson,orbyagentorattorney.

(b) IfaNewYorkStateParkorNewYorkStateParkwayshallbelocatedwithinfivehundred

(500)feetofthepropertyaffectedbytheappeal,atleastten(10)calendardayspriorto

suchpublichearing,theZoningBoardofAppealsshall

sendnoticestotheregionalState

ParkCommissionhavingjurisdictionovertheStateParkorParkway.

requiredbySection239‐moftheNewYorkStateGeneralMunicipalLaw.Suchnoticeshall

be

inwritingsentatleastten(10)calendardayspriortosuchpublichearing.

(d) Ifthelandaffectedbytheappeallieswithinfivehundred(500)feetoftheboundaryofany

othermunicipality,theClerkoftheZoningBoardofAppealsshallalsosubmitatleastten

(10)calendar

dayspriortothepublichearingtothemunicipalclerkofsuchother

municipalityormunicipalitiesacopyofthenoticeofthesubstanceofeveryappeal,

togetherwithacopyoftheofficialnoticeofsuchpublichearing.

(e) InanyapplicationorappealtheClerkoftheZoning

BoardofAppealsshallprovidewritten

noticeofthepublichearing,alongwiththesubstanceofthevaria nceappealorapplication,

to:thecurrentownersofallpropertyabutting,ordirectlyopposite,thatoftheproperty

affectedbytheappeal;andtoallotherownersofpropertywithinfivehundred(500)

feetof

thepropertywhichisthes ubjectoftheappeal.Noticeofthepublichearingshallbe

publishedintheofficialnewspaperatleastfive(5)dayspriortothedatesetforpublic

hearingandpostedontownwebsite.Suchnoticeshallbeprovidedbycertifiedmailat

least

ten(10)calendardayspriortothedateofthehearing.Compliancewiththisnotification

procedureshallbecertifiedtobytheClerk.

(f) Thenamesandaddressesofsurroundingpropertyownerstobenotifiedinaccordancewith

theforgoingshallbetakenfromthecurrentNewYorkStateReal

Propertyrecords.The

currentownersofallpropertyabutting,ordirectlyopposite,thatoftheproper tyaffected

bytheappeal;andtoallotherownersofpropertywithinfivehundred(500)feetofthe

propertywhichisthesubjectoftheappeal.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 212 

(g) Withregardtonoticestobeprovidedtothenon‐governmentalownersofabutting,

oppositeandpropertieslocatedwithin500feetofthepropertywhichisthesubjectofthe

appeal,providedthattherehasbeensubstantialcompliancewiththeprovisionsofthis

ZoningLawregardingthosenotices,provided

thattherehasbeensubstantialcompliance,

failuretogivenoticeinexactconformancewiththerequirementsshallnotbedeemedto

invalidateanactiontakenbytheZoningBoardofAppeals.



(9) Referralsand NoticetoColumbiaCountyPlanningBoard&TownofChathamPlanningBoard.



(a) Atleastten

(10)daysbeforesuchhearing,theZoningBoardofAppealsshallmailnoticeto

theColumbiaCountyPlanningBoardasrequiredbySection239‐moftheNewYorkState

GeneralMunicipalLaw.Thenoticeshallbeaccompaniedbyafullstatementoftheproposed

action,asdefinedinsubdivision

oneofSection239‐moftheNewYorkStateGeneral

MunicipalLaw.NoactionshallbetakenbytheZoningBoardofAppealsuntilanadvisory

recommendationhasbeenreceivedfromtheColumbiaCountyPlanningBoardorthirty(30)

calendardayshaveelapsedsincetheCountyPlan ningBoardreceivedsuch

fullstatement.

IntheeventthattheColumbiaCountyPlanningBoardrecommendsdisapprovalofthe

requestedvarianceortheattachmentsofconditionstheretowithinsuchtimeperiodorata

laterdatepriortofinalactionbytheZoningBoardofAppeals,theZoningBoardofAppeals

shallnotact

contrarytosuchrecommendationexceptbyavoteofamajorityplusone(1)of

allthemembersaftertheadoptionofaresolutionfullysettingforththereasonsforsuch

contraryaction.Withinthirty(30)daysaftersuchfinalaction,theZoningBoardofAppeals

shallfileareportof

thefinalactionithastakenwiththeColumbiaCountyPlanningBoard.

(b) TheZoningBoardofAppealsshallsendtotheTownofChathamPlanningBoardacopy of

theappealorapplication,andshallrequestthat,inresponse,thePlanningBoardsubmitto

theZoningBoardofAppeals

anadvisoryopiniononsaidappealorapplication.ThePlanning

BoardshallsubmitareportofsuchadvisoryopiniontotheZoningBoardofAppealspriorto

thedateofthepublichearing.IfthePlanningBoardfailstodothatwithinthirty‐five(35)

daysofthedatethatthe

ZoningBoardofAppealssenditsrequestforarecommendation,

thenthePlanningBoard’srecommendationshallbedeemedtobefavorabletotheappeal

orapplication.

(10) Compliancewithstateenvironmentalqualityreviewact.TheZoningBoardofAppealsshall

complywiththeprovisionsoftheStateEnvironmentalQualityReview

Act(SEQRA)underArticle

8oftheEnvironmentalConservationLawanditsimplementingregulationsascodifiedinTitle

Six,Part617oftheNewYorkCodes,RulesandRegulations.



(11) Timeofdecision.TheZoningBoardofAppealsshalldecideupontheappealwithinsixty‐two(62)

daysafterthe

hearingiscompleted.Thetimewithin whichtheZoningBoardofAppealsmust

renderitsdecisionmaybeextendedbymutualconsentoftheapplicantandtheBoard.



(12) Votingrequirements.

(a) Decisionoftheboard.Exceptforthevotingrequirementsforrehearingbelow,everymotion

orresolutionofa

ZoningBoardofAppealsshallrequireforitsadoptiontheaffirmativevote

ofamajorityofallthemembersoftheZoningBoardofAppealsasfullyconstituted

regardlessofvacanciesorabsences.Whereanactionisthesubjectofareferraltothe



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 213 

ColumbiaCountyPlanningBoard,thevotingprovisionsofSection239‐moftheNewYork

StateGeneralMunicipalLawshallapply.

(b) Defaultdenialofappeal.Inexercisingitsappellatejurisdictiononly , ifanaffirmativevoteof

amajorityofallmembersoftheBoardisnotattainedona

motionorresolutiontogranta

varianceorreverseanyorder,requirement,decisionordeterminationoftheenforcement

officialwithinthetimeallowedbythisLaw,theappealisdenied.Theboardmayamendthe

deniedmotionorresolutionandvoteontheamendedmotionorresolutionwithinthetime

allowed

withoutbeingsubjecttotherehearingprocessassetforthinthisLaw.



(13) Filingofdecisionandnotice.ThedecisionoftheZoningBoardofAppealsontheappealshallbe

filedintheofficeoftheTownClerkwithinfive(5)businessdaysaftertheday suchdecision

is

rendered,andacopythereofmailedtotheapplicant.

(14) Rehearing.AmotionfortheZoningBoardofAppealstoholdarehearingtoreviewanyorder,

decisionordeterminationoftheboardnotpreviouslyreheardmaybemadebyanymemberof

theBoard.Aunanimousvoteof

allmembersoftheboardthenpresentisrequiredforsuch

rehearingtooccur.Suchrehearingissubjecttothesamenoticeprovisionsasanoriginal

hearing.UponsuchrehearingtheBoardmayreverse,modifyorannulitsoriginalorder,decision

ordeterminationupontheunanimousvoteofallmembersthen

present,providedtheBoard

findsthattherightsvestedinpersonsactingingoodfaithinrelianceuponthereheardorder,

decisionordeterminationwillnotbeprejudicedthereby.



I. PermittedactionbytheZoningBoardofAppeals.

(1) Orders,requirements,decisions,interpretations,determinations.TheZoningBoardofAppeals

may

reverseoraffirm,whollyorpartly,ormaymodifytheorder,requirement,decision,

interpretationordeterminationappealedfromandshallmakesuchorder,requirement,

decision,interpretationordeterminationasinitsopinionoughttohavebeenmadeinthe

matterbytheEnforcement Officer,andtothatend,shallhave

allthepowersofsuch

EnforcementOfficerfromwhoseorder,requirement,decision,interpretationordetermination

theappealistaken.



(2) Usevariances.TheZoningBoardofAppeals,inthegrantingofusevariances,shallgrantthe

minimumvariancethatitshalldeemnecessaryandadequatetoaddresstheunnecessary

hardship

provenbytheapplicant,andatthesametimepreserveandprotectthecharacterof

theneighborhoodandthehealth,safetyandwelfareofthecommunity.



(a) TheZoningBoardofAppeals,onappeal fromthedecisionordeterminationoftheCode

EnforcementOfficer,shallhavethepowertogrant

usevariances.

(b) NosuchusevarianceshallbegrantedbytheZoningBoardofAppealswithoutashowingby

theapplicantthatapplicablezoningregulationsandrestrictionshavecausedunnecessary

hardship.Inordertoprovesuchunnecessaryhardship,theapplicantshalldemonstrateto

theZoningBoardofAppealsthatfor

eachandeverypermitteduse,underthezoning

regulationsfortheparticulardistrictwherethepropertyislocated,theapplicantmust

meetallfourconditionsbelow.

(1) Theapplicantcannotrealizeareasonablereturn,providedthatlackofreturnis

substantialasdemonstratedbycompetentfinancialevidence;



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 214 

(2) Thattheallegedhardshiprelatingtothepropertyinquestionisunique,anddoesnot

applytoasubstantialportionofthedis trictorneighborhood;

(3) Thattherequestedusevariance,ifgranted,willnotaltertheessentialcharacterofthe

neighborhood;and

(e)Thattheallegedhards hiphas

notbeenself‐created.



(3) Areavariances.



(a) TheZoningBoardofAppealsshallhavethepower,uponanappealfromadecisionor

determinationoftheEnforcementOfficer,tograntareavariancesasdefinedherein.In

addition,theZoningBoardofAppealsshallalsohavethepowertogrant

areavariances

whicharenecessaryinthecourseofsiteplan,specialusepermitandsubdivisionapplication

forwhichapplicationforsuchareavariancemaybemadedirectlytotheZoningBoardof

Appealswithoutthenecessityofadecisionordeterminationofanadministrativeofficial

chargedwithenforcementof

thezoningregulationsasauthorizedbyNewYorkStateTown

LawSections274‐a(3)[siteplan],274‐b(3)[specialusepermits]and277(6)[subdivisions].

(b) Inmakingitsdetermination,theZoningBoardofAppealsshalltakeintoconsiderationthe

benefittotheapplicantifthevarianceisgranted,asweighedagainst

thedetrimenttothe

health,safetyandwelfareoftheneighborhoodorcommunitybysuchgrant.Inmakingsuch

determinationtheBoardshallalsoconsider:



(1) Whetheranundesirablechangewillbeproducedinthecharacteroftheneighborhood

oradetrimenttonearbypropertieswillbecreatedbythe

grantingoftheareavariance;

(2) Whetherthebenefitsoughtbytheapplicantcanbeachievedbysomemethod,feasible

fortheapplicanttopursue,otherthananareavariance;

(3) Whethertherequestedareavarianceissubstantial;

(4) Whethertheproposedvariancewillhaveanadverseeffectorimpact

onthephysicalor

environmentalconditionsintheneighborhoodordistrict;and

(5) Whethertheallegeddifficultywasself‐created,whichconsiderationshallberelevantto

thedecisionoftheZoningBoardofAppealsbutshallnotnecessarilyprecludethe

grantingoftheareavariance.



Appeals,inthegrantingofareavariances,shallgranttheminimum

variancethatitshalldeemnecessaryandadequateandatthesametimepreserveand

protectthecharacteroftheneighborho odandthehealth,safetyandwelfareofthe

community.



J. Impositionofconditions.TheZoningBoardofAppeals

shall,inthegrantingofbothusevariances

andareavariances,havetheauthoritytoimposesuchreasonableconditionsandrestrictionsasare

directlyrelatedtoandincidentaltotheproposeduseoftheproperty.Suchconditionsshallbe

consistentwiththespiritandintentofthisLocalLaw,andshall

beimposedforthepurposeof

minimizinganyadverseimpactsuchvariancemayhaveontheneighborhoodorcommunity



K. RelieffromDecisions.Anypersonorpersons,jointlyorseverallyaggrievedbyanyfinaldecisionof

theZoningBoardofAppeals,mayapplytotheNewYorkStateSupremeCourt

forreviewbya

proceedingunderArticle78oftheNewYorkCivilPracticeLawandRules.Suchproceedingshallbe



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 215 

governedbythespecificprovisionsofCPLRArticle78exceptthattheactionmustbecommencedas

thereinprovidedwithinthirty(30)daysafterthefilingofthedecisionoftheZoningBoardof

AppealsintheofficeoftheTownClerk.



L. StrictConstruction.AllprovisionsofthisArticle

pertainingtotheZoningBoardofAppealsshallbe

strictlyconstrued.TheZoningBoardofAppealsshallactinstrictconformitywithallprovisionsof

lawandofthisArticleandinstrictcompliancewithalllimitationscontainedtherein,provided

however,thatiftheproceduralrequirementssetforthinthis

Articlehavebeensubstantially

observed,noapplicantorappellantshallbedeemeddeprivedoftherightofapplicationorappeal.



M. OtherProvisionsofNewYorkStateTownLawSection267‐a.AllotherprovisionsofNewYorkState

TownLawSection267‐awithregardtoZoningBoardof

Appealsprocedurenotsetforthherein, are

incorporatedhereinbyreferenceandshallapplytotheZoningBoardofAppeals.



§180‐66.AdministrationandEnforcement

A. Thischapter shallbeenforcedbytheCodeEnforcementOfficer(CEO)whoshallbea ppointedby

theTownBoard.Nobuildingpermitorcertificateofoccupancyshallbeissuedbyhimorher,

exceptwherealltheprovisionsofthischapterhavebeencompliedwith.Enforcementprocedures

shallincludeall

requirementsofChapters114and124oftheTownofChathamCode.B.TheCEO

shallhavethefollowingpowersandduties:

(1) ToreceiveandreviewforZoningLawcomplianceandforclericalcompletenessallapplicatio ns

foraspecialusepermit,siteplanreviewandsubdivisionreviewpursuantto

theprovisionsof

thisZoningLaw.IftheCodeEnforcementOfficerdeterminesthattheapplicationmeetsall

requirementsoftheZoningLaw,theCEOshallforwardtheapplicationtothePlanning Board

forfurtherreviewinaccordancewiththeprovisionsoftheZoningLawand/orLandSubdivision

Regulations.IftheCEO

findsthattheapplicationdoesnotcomplyinoneormorerespectswith

theprovisionsoftheZoningLaw,theCEOshalldenytheapplicationandnotifytheapplicant

thathe/shemayappealtheCEO'sdeterminationtotheZoningBoardofAppealsinaccordance

withtheprovisionsofArticleVII

ofthisZoningLaw.



(2) ToreceiveandreviewforZoningLawcomplianceandforclericalcompletenessallregistration

applicationsforshort‐termrentalusepermitspursuanttothisZoningLaw,andinparticular

pursuanttoZoningLawSection180‐58(Z).TheCEOshallreceive,reviewandissueordeny

registrationapplicationsforpermits

underZoningLawSection180‐58(Z)inaccordancewiththe

detailedprovisionssetforthinthatsectionoftheZoningLaw.





(3) UponapprovalofanyapplicationbythePlanningBoardforaspecialusepermit,siteplan

approval,orforanyotherchangeinuserequiringtheissuanceofabuildingpermit,theCEOis

authorizedtoissueazoningpermitwithoutadditionalapplicationbytheprojectsponsor.A

zoning

permitisadocumentthatacknowledgesthataproposeduseorstructurecomplieswith

theChathamZoningLaworauthorizedvariancethereof.Suchzoningpermitshallincludeall

standardsandconditionsimposedbythePlanningBoard.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 216 

(4) Toconductinspectionsnecessarytotheinvestigationofcomplaintsandallotherinspections

requiredorpermittedunderanyprovisionofthisZoningLaw,andtorequestandinspectany

recordsordocumentsauthorizedpursuanttotheprovisionsofthisZoningLaw.



(5) Toissuestopworkorders,noticesof

violationsandcomplianceorders,andtorevokepermits

issuedpursuanttoZoningLawSection180‐58(Z)inaccordancewiththeprovisionsofthat

sectiongoverningpermitrevocation.



(6) Toacceptcomplaintsofviolationsfromcitizensandpublicofficials,todocumentandfollowup

onviolationsencounteredduringthecourseof

inspectionsorthroughgeneralobservationin

thecommunity,toinvestigatepotentialviolations,andwherenecessaryinthediscretionofthe

Town,tocommenceenforcementoftheZoningLaw.



(7) ToissueorderspursuanttoSection180‐58(Z)ofthisZoningLaw.



(8) ToissueorderspursuanttoSection180‐

66(L)ofthisZoningLaw("Violations").



(9) Tomaintainrecords.



(10) TocollectfeessetbytheTownBoard.



(11) Topursueadministrativeandcivilenforcementactionsandproceedingsand/orcriminal

proceedingstoenforcetheprovisionsofthisZoningLaw.



(12) ToconsultwiththeTownAttorneyabout

pursuingsuchlegalactionsandproceedingsasmay

benecessarytoenforcetheprovisionsoftheZoningLaw.



(13) ToexerciseallotherpowersandfulfillallotherdutiesconferredupontheCodeEnforcement

OfficerbythisZoningLaw. 

C.Appointmentandqualifications.

TheCodeEnforcementOfficershallbeappointed

bytheTownBoard.TheCodeEnforcementOfficer

shallpossessbackground,skills,trainingandexperiencerelatingtotheinterpreta tion,applicationand

enforcementofzoninglawsandlawscommensuratewiththeresponsibilitiesoftheposition and

shall,withinthetimeperiodprescri bedbylaw,obtainsuchbasictraining,in‐servicetraining,

advancedin‐servicetrainingandothertrainingastheStateofNewYorkandtheTownshallrequire

forZoningEnforcementpersonnel.TheTownBoardmayalsoappointaDeputyCodeEnforcement

OfficerwhoshallhavethesamedutiesandauthorityasthoseconferredupontheCEObytheTown

Board.

SuchDeputyshallalsohavethequalifications,training,andskillscommensuratewiththe

responsibilitiesoftheCodeEnforcementOfficerposition.

D.ActingCodeEnforcementOfficer.

IntheeventtheCEOisunabletoserveforanyreason,theDeputyCEOshallbeappointedbythe

TownBoardtoserveas

ActingCodeEnforcementOfficer.TheActingCodeEnforcementOfficer

shallpossessbackgroundandexperiencerelatingtotheinterpretation,applicationandenforcement



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 217 

ofzoninglawsandshall,afterbeingappointedbytheTownBoard,obtainsuchbasictraining,in

servicetraining,advancedin‐servicetrainingandothertrainingastheStateofNewYorkandthe

TownshallrequireforZoningEnforcementpersonnel.TheActingCodeEnforcementOfficershall,

duringtheterm

ofhisorherappointment,exerciseallpowersandfulfillalldutiesconferredupon

theCEObythisZoningLaw.

E. Compensation.CompensationoftheCodeEnforcementOfficershallbereviewedannuallybythe

TownBoard.

F. AuthoritytoissueStopWorkOrders.TheCodeEnforcementOfficerisauthorizedtoissue

stopwork

orderspursuanttothisArticleforanyworkthatisdeterminedbytheCodeEnforcementOfficerto

beconductedinviolationoftheZoningLaw,including,butnotlimitedto,workbeingconductedon

landand/orworkbeingconductedonabuildingorstructureforwhichaspecial

usepermitorsite

planapprovalisrequiredbuthasnotbeenobtained.

G. ContentofStopWorkOrder.Astopworkordershall:

(1) Beinwriting;



(2) BedatedandsignedbyissuingOfficer;



(3) Statethereasonorreasonsforissuance;and



(4) Ifapplicable,state

theconditionsthatmustbesatisfiedbeforeworkwillbepermittedto

resume.

H. Serviceofstopworkorder.TheCEOshallcausethestopworkorder,oracopythereof,tobeserved

ontheowneroftheaffectedproperty(and,iftheownerisnotthepermitholder,on

thepermit

holder)personallyorbyregisteredorcertifiedmail. TheCEOshallbepermitted,butnotrequired,

tocausethestopworkorder,oracopythereof,tobeservedonanybuilder,architect,tenant,

contractor,subcontractor,constructionsuperintendent,ortheiragents,oranyotherpersontaking

partor

assistinginworkaffectedbythestopworkorder,personallyorbyregisteredorcertified

mail;provided,however,thatfailuretoserveanypersonmentionedinthissentenceshallnotaffect

theefficacyofthestopworkorder.

I. Effectofstopworkorder.Whenastopworkorderisissued,

theowneroftheaffectedproperty,

thepermitholderandanyotherpersonperforming,takingpartinorassistingintheworkshall

immediatelyceaseallworkthatisthesubjectofthestopworkorder.

J. Complaints.TheCEOshallreviewandinvestigatecomplaintsthatallegeorassertthe

existenceof

conditionsoractivitiesthatfailtocomplywiththisZoningLaw.Theprocessforrespondingtoa

complaintshallincludeanyofthefollowingstepstheCEOmaydeemtobeappropriate:

(1) Performinganinspectionoftheproperty,conditionsand/oractivitiesallegedtobeinviolation, 

anddocumenting

theresultsofsuchinspection;



(2) Ifaviolationisfoundtoexist,providingtheowneroftheaffectedproperty,andanyother

personwhomayberesponsiblefortheviolation,withnoticeoftheviolationandopportunityto



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 218 

abate,correctorcuretheviolation,orotherwiseproceedinginthemannerauthorizedin180‐66

(Violations)ofthisZoningLaw;



(3) Ifappropriate,issuingastopworkorderand/orcomplianceorder;



(4) Ifaviolationthatwasfoundtoexistisabatedorcorrected,performinganinspectionto

ensure

thattheviolationhasbeenabatedorcorrected,preparingafinalwrittenreportreflectingsuch

abatementorcorrection,andfilingthereportwiththecomplaint;and



(5) Notifythecomplainantabouttheoutcomeofanyinvestigationinitiatedasaresultoftheir

complaint.



K. Recordkeeping.TheCEOshallkeep

permanentofficialrecordsofalltransactionsandactivitiesthat

he/sheconductsandthoseconductedbymembersofhisoffice,includingrecordsof:

(1) Allapplicationsreceived,reviewedandapprovedordenied ; 



(2) Allplans,specificationsandconstructiondocumentsapproved;



(3) Allzoningpermits,temporarycertificates,stopworkorders,operating

permits,andcertificates

ofuseissued;



(4) Allinspectionsandtests,includingallthird‐partyinspectionsandtests,requiredandperformed;



(5) Allstatementsandreportsissuedandamasterlistofallreportstobe received;



(6) Allcomplaintsreceived;



(7) Allinvestigationsconducted;



(8) Allother

featuresandactivitiesspecifiedinorcontemplatedbythisSectionoftheZoningLaw;

and



(9) Allfeeschargedandcollected.

Allrecordsshallbepublicrecordsopenforpublicinspectionduringnormalbusinesshours,except

forrecordsexemptedfromdisclosureundertheNewYorkStatePublicOfficersLaw(Freedom

of

InformationLaw)ordocumentswhichareprotectedbyattorney‐clientprivilege.Allrecords

maintainedbytheCEOshallbekeptinanorganizedmannercalculatedtoalloweasyandefficient

reviewbyTownofficialsorthepublic.Allplansandrecordspertainingtobuildingsorstructures,or

appurtenancesthereto,shall

beretainedforatleasttheminimumtimeperiodsorequiredbyState

lawandregulation.TheCEOshallperiodicallycheckallreportsandplanstoensurethatappropriate

action,ifneeded,istaken.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 219 

L. ProgramReviewandReporting.TheCEOalongwiththeDeputyCEOshallannuallysubmittothe

TownBoardawrittenreportandsummaryofallbusinessconductedbytheCEOoffice,includinga

reportandsummaryofalltransactionsandactivitiesdescribedin180‐66,subsection(J)(Record

Keeping)of

thisZoningLawandareportandsummaryofallappealsorlitigationpendingor

concluded.

M. Violations.TheCEOisauthorizedtoorderinwritingtheremedyingofanyconditionoractivity

foundtoexistin,on,oraboutanybuilding,structure,propertyorpremisesinviolationofthis

ZoningLaw.

Uponfindingthatanyviolationexists,theofficershallissueacomplianceorder.Thecompliance

ordershall:

(1) beinwriting;

(2) bedated,shallidentifytheCEO,andbesignedbytheCEO;



(3) specifytheconditionoractivitythatviolatesthisZoningLaw;



(4) specifythe

provisionorprovisionsofthisZoningLawthatis/areviolatedbythespecified

conditionoractivity;



(5) specifytheperiodoftimetheCEObelievesisreasonablynecessaryforachievingcompliance;



(6) directthatcompliancebeachievedwithinthespecifiedperiodoftime;and



(7) statethatanaction

orproceedingtocompelcompliancemaybeinstitutedifcomplianceisnot

achievedwithinthespecifiedperiodoftime.

TheCEOshallcausethecomplianceorder,oracopythereof,tobeservedontheownerofthe

affectedpropertypersonallyorbyregisteredorcertifiedmail.TheOfficershall

bepermitted,but

notrequired,tocausethecomplianceorder,oracopythereof;tobeservedonanybuilder,

architect,tenant,contractor,subcontractor,constructionsuperintendent,ortheiragents,orany

otherpersontakingpartorassistinginworkbeingperformedattheaffectedpropertypersonallyor

byregisteredorcertified

mail;provided,however,thatfailuretoserveanypersonmentionedinthis

sentenceshallnotaffecttheefficacyofthecomplianceorder.

N. Appearancetickets.TheCEOisauthorizedtoissueappearanceticketsforanyviolationoftheZoning

Law.

O. Civilpenalties.Inadditiontothosepenaltiesauthorizedby

Statelaw,anypersonwhoviolatesany

provisionofthisZoningLawshallbeliableforacivilpenaltyofnotmorethan$200foreachdayor

partthereofduringwhichsuchviolationcontinues.Thecivilpenaltiesprovidedbythissubdivision

shallberecoverableinanactioninstitutedbythe

TownofChatham.

P. Criminalpenaltiesandenforcement.AnyviolationoftheZoningLawisherebydeclaredtobean

offensepunishablebyafinenotexceeding$350orimprisonmentforaperiodnottoexceedsix(6)

months,orboth,forconvictionofafirstoffense;uponconvictionof

asecondoffense,bothofwhich

werecommittedwithinaperiodoffive(5)years,punishablebyafinenotlessthan$350,normore



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 220 

than$700,orimprisonmentforaperiodnottoexceedsix(6)months,orboth;anduponco nviction

ofathirdorsubsequentoffense,allofwhichwerecommittedwithinaperiodoffive(5)years,

punishablebyafinenotlessthan$700,normorethan$1,000,orimprisonment

foraperiodnotto

exceedsix(6)months,orboth.ForthepurposeofconferringjurisdictionupontheCourtsand

judicialofficersgenerally,violationsoftheZoningLawshallbedeemedmisdemeanorsandforsuch

purposeonly,allprovisionsoflawrelatingtomisdemeanorsshallapplytosuchviolations.Each



week’scontinuedviolationshallconstituteaseparateadditionalviolation.

Q. Injunctiverelief.AnactionorproceedingmaybeinstitutedbytheTown,inacourtofcompetent

jurisdiction,toprevent,restrain,enjoin,correct,orabateanyviolationof,ortoenforce,any

provisionofthisZoningLaw.Nocourtaction

orproceedingshallbecommencedwithoutthe

appropriateauthorizationfromtheTownBoard.Inparticular,butnotbywayoflimitation,where

theconstructionoruseofabuildingorstructureisinviolationofanyprovisionofthisZoningLaw,

oranyStopWorkOrder,ComplianceOrderorotherorder

obtainedunderthisZoningLaw,anaction

orproceedingmaybecommencedinthenameoftheTown,intheSupremeCourtorinanyother

courthavingtherequisitejurisdiction,toobtainanorderdirecti ngtheremovalofthebuildingor

structureoranabatementoftheconditionin

violationofsuchprovisions.

R. Remediesnotexclusive.NoremedyorpenaltyspecifiedinthisArticleshallbetheexclusiveremedy 

orpenaltyavailabletoaddressanyviolationdescribedinthisArticle,andeachremedyorpenalty

specifiedinthisArticleshallbeinadditionto,andnotinsubstitutionfor

orlimitationof,theother

remediesorpenaltiesspecifiedthisSectionorinanyotherapplicablelaw.Any remedyorpenalty

specifiedinthisArticle,includingstopworkorders,maybepursuedatanytime,whetherpriorto,

simultaneouslywith,orafterthepursuitofanyotherremedyorpenalty

specifiedinthisArticleor

anyotherapplicablelaw.

Inparticular,butnotbywayoflimitation,eachremedyandpenaltyspecifiedinthisArticle,

includingstopworkorders,shallbeinadditionto,andnotinsubstitutionfororlimitationof,the

penaltiesspecifiedinSubdivision(2)ofSection381

oftheNewYorkStateExecutiveLaw

(AdministrationandEnforcementoftheNewYorkStateUniformFirePreventionandBuildingCode

andtheNewYorkStateEnergyConservationandConstructionCode),andanyremedyorpenalty

specifiedinthisArticle,includingstopworkorders,maybepursuedatanytime,

whetherpriorto,or

simultaneouslywith,orafterthepursuitofanypenaltyspecifiedinSubdivision(2)ofSection381of

theNewYorkStateExecutiveLaw.



S. Permits

(1) Buildingpermit.Forzoningpurposes,nonewstructureshallbebuilt,noranexistingstructure

enlargedormoved,nouse

ofspaceshallbechanged,unlessabuildingpermitforsuchaction

hasbeenissuedbytheCodeEnforcementOfficer.Abuildingpermitshallexpireoneyearfrom

thedateofissue.

(2) Priortoconductinganyuseonanyproperty,theownerofsuchpropertyshallseekthereview

and

issuanceoftheappropriatezoningpermitforpermittedusesorreferralofthemattertothe

appropriateBoardforreview,bytheCodeEnforcementOfficer.T.Matteraccompanying

applicationforpermits.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 221 

(1)EachapplicationtotheCodeEnforcementOfficerforapermittoerectanewbuildingor

structure,toenlargeanexistingone,tomoveanexistingoneorchangetheuseofanexisting

space,shallbeaccompaniedbyasiteplanshowingmeasurementsofthelotandof

allbuildings,

setbacksandparkingspaces,existingandproposed,theintendeduseorusesofthelandand

buildings,theareaofdisturbanceclearl ydelineatedandquantified,andplansforprovisionof

essentialservices.Inthecaseofnonresidentialusesormultifa milyuses,thedocumentation

shallbethesameasrequired

forsiteplanreview.Fornewconstructionwithoutpublicsewers,

nobuildingpermitshallbeissuedunlessthemethodofsewagedisposalisapprovedbythe

TownofChathamorCountyBoardofHealth,whicheverisapplicable.

§180‐67.Amendments



A. AuthoritiestoAmend

(1) TheTownBoardmayfromtimetotimeamend,supplementorrepeal,inwholeorinpart,this

Code,subjecttotheprovisionsofthisSectionandTownLaw.Suchamendmentshallbeadopted

bymajorityvoteoftheTownBoardandmaybeinitiated

inthefollowingways:



(a) BytheTownBoardonitsownmotion;

(b) OntherecommendationofthePlanningBoardortheZoningBoardofAppeals;

Clerk,describingsuchproposed

amendmentasperNewYorkStateTownLaw265.

(d) Ifnotsooner,thisCode shouldbere‐visitedevery3‐5yearstoassureitscontinuing

relevanceandeffectivenesscomplyingwiththeComprehensivePlan.



B. Procedures

(1) PublicHearing:NoamendmenttothisLawshallbecomeeffectiveuntil

apublichearingisheld

atwhichthegeneralpublicshallhaveanopportunitytobeheard.



(2) NewspaperNoticeofHearing:Atleastten(10)dayspriortothedateofsuchpublichearing,a

noticeofthetimeandplaceshallappearintheofficialnewspaperofthe

TownandtheTown

website.Suchnoticeshalldescribethearea,boundaries,regulations,orrequirementsthatsuch

proposedchangeinvolves.



(3) Referrals:Allproposedchangestothesezoningregulationsormapshallbereferredtothe

appropriatebodyassetforthinsub‐section(C)ofthissection.



(4) Publication

andPosting:EveryamendmenttothisLaw,includinganymapthatisincorporated,

adoptedinaccordancewiththeTow nLawshallbeenteredintheminutes oftheTownBoard,

andacopyorsummariesthereof,,shallbepublishedonceinanewspaperofgeneralcirculation

intheTown

(exclusiveofanymaprelatedtotheamendment)andontheTownwebsite

(inclusiveoftheamendmentmap).Inaddition,acopyofsuchLaworamendment,togetherwith

acopyofanymapincorporatedtherein,shallbepostedconspicuouslyatorneartheofficeof

theTownClerkinaccordance

withTownLaw.Affidavitsofthepublicationandpostingthereof

shallbefiledwiththeTownClerk.





Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 222 

(5) EffectiveDate:AnamendmentorchangeinthisLawshalltakeeffectimmediatelyuponfilingof

theLocalLawwiththeSecretaryofStateinaccordwithArticle3oftheMunicipalHomeRule

Law.



(6) Adoption.TheTownBoardmayadoptamendmentstothisLocalLawbya

simplemajorityvote

ofitsfullmembership,exceptinthecaseoflocalprotestordisapprovalbytheCountyPlanning

BoardasnotedinthisArticle.InthecasetheCountyPlanningBoarddisapproves,theTown

Boardmayproceedtoadopttheamendmentwithamajorityplusonevoteof

theBoardasper

NewYorkStateGeneralMunicipalLaw239mandn.



C. Referrals



(1) ReferraltothePlanningBoard



(a) Procedure.AllproposedamendmentsoriginatedbypetitionorbymotionoftheTown

BoardshallbereferredtotheTownofChathamPlanningBoard30daysprior

tothe

requiredpublichearingforareportandrecommendationsthereon.IfthePlanningBoard

doesnotmakeitsfinalreporttotheTownBoardwithin45daysofthereferral,theTown

Boardmayproceedtofinalaction.

(b) PlanningBoardReport.Inpreparingareportonaproposedamendment,

thePlanningBoard

shallconsiderthefollowing:



(1) Whethersuchchangeisconsistentwiththeobjectivesandpurposesofthe

ComprehensivePlanandTownofChathamCode.

(2) Whetherusespermittedbytheproposedchangewillbeappropriateintheaffected

area.



(2) ReferraltoTheCountyPlanningBoard

(a) MatterstobeReferred.Anychangeinthedistrictclassificationof,ortheregulations

applyingto,realpropertylyingwithinadistanceof500feetofthefollowingshallbe

referredtotheColumbiaCountyPlanningBoardprio rtofinalactioninaccordwithSections

239‐I,239mand239

‐noftheNewYorkStateGeneralMunicipalLaw.Nofinalactionshallbe

takenwithin30daysofsuchreferralunlessaresponseisreceivedsooner.

(1) Theboundaryofanyothermunicipality.

(2) Theboundaryofanyexistingorproposedcountyorstateparkorotherrecreationarea

orstateforestpreservelands.

(3) Theright‐of‐wayofanyexistingorproposedcountyorstateroad,parkway,orother

controlledaccesshighway.

(4) Theexistingorproposedright‐of‐wayofanystreamordrainagechannelownedbythe

countyforwhichthecountyhasestablishedchannellines.



(5) Theexistingorproposedboundaryofanycountyorstate‐ownedlandonwhichapublic

buildingorinstitutionislocated.



(b) CountyPlanningBoardRecommendations.IftheColumbiaCountyPlanningBoardfailsto

reportitsrecommendationswithin30daysafterreceiptofafullstatementofsuchreferred



material,theTownBoardmayactwithoutsuchareport.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 223 

amendment,orrecommendsmodifi cationthereof,theproposedamendmentshallnot

becomeeffectiveexceptbyavoteofamajorityplusoneofallmembersoftheTownBoard

andaftertheadoptionofaresolutionfully

settingforththereasonsforsuchaction.



(3) ReferraltoAdjacentMunicipalities:Atleast10dayspriortothedateofthepublichearing,

writtennoticeofanyproposedchangeoramendmentaffectingpropertywithin500feetofthe

boundaryofanyadjacentTownorVillageshallbetransmittedto

theTownorVillageClerkof

thatTownorVillage.TheTownorVillageshallhavetherighttoappearandtobeheardatsuch

publichearingwithrespecttoanysuchproposedchangeoramendment.



D. LocalProtest.Ifaprotestagainsttheproposedamendmentispresentedto

theTownBoard,duly

signedandacknowledgedbytheownersof20%ormoreoftheareaoflandincludedinsuch

proposedamendment,orbytheownersof20%ormoreoftheareaofthelandimmediately

adjacentextending100feettherefrom,orbytheownersof20%

ofmoreoftheareaoflanddirectly

oppositeandextending10 0feet fromthestreetfrontageofsuchoppositeland,suchamendment

shallnotbepassedexceptbythefavorablevoteofmajorityplusoneofallthemembersofthe

TownBoard.

  



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 224 

AppendixA.IllustrationofBuildableAreaandLotMeasurements

 



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 225 

AppendixB.AdditionalspecialusepermitstandardsforOutdoorFiring

RangesandHuntingPreserves



ForpurposesofSpecialUsePermits issuedforIndoorandOutdoorFiringRangesandHuntingPreserves

thefollowingdefinitionsshallapply:

“Backstop”meansadeviceconstructedtostoporredirectbulletsfiredonarange.

“Baffles”meansbarrierstocontainbulletsandtore duce,redirectorsuppresssoundwaves.Baffles

are

placedeitheroverhead,alongside,oratgroundleveltorestrictorinterrupterrantoroff‐the‐target

shots.

“Ballistics”meansthestudyofwhathappenstomovingprojectilesinthebarrelandinflight:their

trajectory,force,impact,andpenetration.Thestudyisdividedintothreesections: internal,externaland



terminal.“Internal”referstowhathappensinside thebarrelbeforethebulletorshotleavesthemuzzle.

“External”iswhathappensafterthebulletorshotleavesthebarrelandtravelstoitsfinalpointof

impact.“Terminal”iswhathappenstothebulletorshotatthefinalpoint

ofimpact.

“Berm”meansanembankmentusedforrestrictingbulletstoagivenareaorasadividingwallbetween

ranges.

“Bullet”meansasinglepr ojectile firedfromafirearm.

“Bullettrap”meansadevicedesignedtotraporcapturetheentirebulletandfragmentsasopposedto

redirectingtheprojectile

intoawaterorsandpit.

“Expansion”meansanychangetoapublicoutdoorshootingrangeexistingasoftheeffectivedateof

thelawcodifiedinthischapteroranyrangedevelopedandoperatingbyvirtueofaspecialusepermit,

thatresultsinadditionalfiringpositionsora

lengtheneddailyperiodofoperations.Expansionshallalso

includeanychangeincreasingthelengthofthedirectfirezoneortheareaoftheshotfallzoneinorder

toaccommodatetheuseoffirearmsnotidentifiedinthethenexistingspecialusepermitapplication.

Modificationsmadeforthepurposeofor

resultingsolelyinmaintenanceorimprovementofafacility,

suchastheinstallationofsewer,waterorotherutilities,pavementofaparkinglot,theinstallationof

safetybaffles,constructionofsideorbackstopberms,ortheconstructionorremodelofaclubhouse,

shallnotbeconsideredanexpansion.

“Firearm”

meansatermusedtodescribeanygun,usuallysmall,fromwhichabulletis propelledby

meansofhotgassesgeneratedbyburningpowder(usuallysmokelessorblackpowder).

“Firingdistance”meansthedistancebetweenthefiringlineandthetargetline.

“Firingline”meansalineparallel tothe

targetsfromwherefirearmsaredischarged.

“Firingposition(point)”meansanareadirectlybehindthefiringlinehavingaspecifiedwidthanddepth

thatisoccupiedbyashooter,hisorherequip mentand,ifappropriate,aninstructororcoach.

FiringRange.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 226 

1. “Firingrange”meansafacilitydesignedforthepurpo seofprovidingaplaceonwhichtodischarge

firearms,shootairguns,and/orarcheryequipment.

2. “Firingrange”mayrefertoseveralrangesconstructedinacomplex.

“Pistol”meansafirearmcapableofbeingheld,aimedandfiredwithone

hand.Alsoknownasa

handgun.

“Publicshootingrange”meansafiringrangewhereauserfeeischarged,orwhereapersonmustbea

memberofagrouptobeallowedtousethefacilityandmembershiprequiresthepaymentofduesor

fees.

“RangeManual”meansTheRange

Manual–AGuidetoPlanningandConstruction,TheNationalRifle

Association.

“Ricochetcatcher”meansadeviceinstalledalongabackstop,aberm,orontherangefloor,designedto

capturericochetingprojectiles.Ricochetcatchersaremorefrequentlyusedonbackstopareaswhere

theslopeorbackstopmaterialdoesnot

positivelycontainbullets.

Rifle.

1. “Rifle”meansamodernfirearmdesignedtobefiredfromtheshoulder.Itsmaincharacteristicis

arifled(grooved)barrelthatimpartsaspintoasingleprojectileasittravelsthroughthebore.

2. Someriflesdesigned formilitaryorlawenforcementusemayhave

apistolgripstockinsteadof

ashoulderstock.

3. Forpurposesofthischapter,“rifles”shallalsoincludeblackpowderandothermuzzleloading

firearms,someofwhichmayhaverifledbarrels.

“Safetybaffles”meansverticalorslopingbarriersdesignedtopreventaprojectilefromtravelingintoan

undesired

areaordirection.Mostoftenusedtopreventbulletsfromleavingafiringrange.

“Safetyfan”appliesonlytorifleandpistolfiringranges.Thesafety fanofafiringrangeconsists ofthree

parts:thedirectfirezone,thesafetyzone,andthericochetzone.Thedirectfirezoneis

thatareainto

whichallshotsarefiredduringthenormalcourseofshooting.Thiszoneincludesalldirectionsand

anglesoffireusedonafiringrangewhileshootingataspecifictarget,eitherstationaryormoving,from

aspecificfiringpoint.Thelengthofthedirectfirezone

extendstothemaximumrangeofthe

ammunitionandfirearmusedonthefiringrangebutcanbeshortenedbyphysicalbarriersorother

deviceswhichreducethemaximumdistanceofabullet’strajectory.Thesafetyzoneextends10degrees 

totheleftandrightofthedirectfirezoneand

protectsagainsterrantbulletscausedbycrossfireor

accidentaldischargeofafirearm.Thericochetzoneisthatarea45degreestothelef tandrightofthe

firinglineandextendedacertaindistancedependentonthetypeoffirearmandammunitionallowed

ontherange(i.e.,85yards

forairguns,andupto1,200yardsforhigh‐poweredrifles).Thelineisthen

extendedparalleltoeachsideofthesafetyzonedownrangetotheintersectionofalineextendedfrom

theterminusofthedirectfirezonethroughtheoutercornerofthesafetyzone.SeeDrawing

No.103in

theRangeManual.



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 227 

“Shotfallzone”meansthatareaofashotgunfiringrangewherespentshotgunshotfallstotheearth

andwheredevelopment,otherthantraporskeethousesortheequivalentfacilitiesforothertypesof

shotgunevents,andhumanoccupancy,otherthanoperatorsofthetrap,skeetorequivalentfacilities,

is

prohibitedduringactiveshooting.

Shotgun.

1. “Shotgun”meansafirearmdesignedtobefiredfromtheshoulderwithasmoothborebarrel

thatfiresshotshellspossessingavaryingnumberofroundpellets;

2. Somebarrelsaredesignedtobeusedwithrifledslugs,mostgenerallyhavingsmoothbores,but

insome

casesmayberifled;

3. Lawenforcementandmilitaryshotgunsmayhaveapistolgripstockinsteadofashoulderstock.

“Targetline”meansalineparalleltothefiringlinealongwhichtargetsareplaced.[

Developmentstandards.

Thefollowingstandardsshallapplytothedevelopmentofproposedpublic

outdoorshootingranges

uponapplicationforaspecialusepermitwhichareallowedonlyinRL‐1andRL‐2.ThePlanningBoard

mayvaryfromthesestandardswheretheapplicanthasdemonstratedthat theproposedfacility

includesalternativedesignsandfeatures,eithernaturalormanmade,thatwillotherwisemitigatethe



potentialadverseimpactstothehealth,safetyandwelfareofownersorusersofneighboringproperties

andthegeneralpublic.Thefollowinggeneralstandardsshallbemet:

(1) Minimumof100acres.

(2) Nofiringofgunsbefore 10:00amorafter6:00pm.

(3) MustcomplywithallNYS

GeneralBusinessLawandallotherrequirementsofAppendixB.

(4) Thereshallbenofiringofgunswithin500feetofanypropertyline.A.RangeDesign.

1. PistolandRifleFiringRanges.Pistolandriflefiringrangedesignshallincludesufficientlandarea

undercontroloftheapplicantfor

asafetyfan(directfirezone,safetyzonesandricochetzones)to

accommodatetheballis tics ofthehighest‐poweredfirearmsandammunitiontobeusedontherange.

SuchgeographicareasshallbebasedontheguidelinescontainedintheRangeManual.Suchspatial

requirementsmaybereducedinconsideration

ofnaturaltopographicfeaturesormanmade

improvements,includingbutnotlimitedto,backstopandsideberms,bullettraps,ricochetcatchers,

andoverheadorgroundsafetybaffleswhichwillprovidesufficientsafetymeasurestoprotectadjacent

properties.

2. ShotgunRan ges.Traprangesshallhav eashotfallzoneonpropertyundercontrolof

the

applicantasestablishedbyalinewhichextends50yardstotherightand50yardstotheleftof,and

perpendicularto,thecenterlineofthetraphouse.Fr omeachendofsaidline,boundarylineshaving

interioranglesof130degreesshallextenddownrangefor300

yards,asdepictedonDrawingNo.64aof

theRangeManual.Skeetrangesshallhaveshotfallzonesonpropertyundercontroloftheapplicant

whichareacompletesemi‐circlewithitscenterpointlocatedatthecenterpointofstation8anda



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 228 

radiusofthesemi‐circlebeing300yards,asdepictedonDrawingNo.70oftheRangeManual.Shotfall

zonesforcrazyquail,sportingclaysorothershotgunfiringrangesshallbedeterminedonacase‐by‐case

basis.

B. Security.Theentireperimeterofallpublicoutdoorshootingrange

safetyfansandshotfallzonesshall

befencedandsignedtoreducethepotentialfortrespassintothesafetyfansandshotfallzones.

Warningsignsidentifyingtherangeshallbepostedaroundtheperimeteroftheparcelorparcelson

whichtheshootingrangeislocatedsuchthateachsignis

visibleandlegiblefromthenext.Thesame

signsshallbepostedsimilarlyonthesecurityfencingsurroundingthesafetyfan(s).

C. Parking.Ataminimum,thereshallbeoneandone‐halfparkingplacesforeachfiringposition.

D. Noise.Allfacilitiesmustcomplywiththe§180‐49.Noise

ofthisChapter.

E. RangeOrientation.Allfiringlinesshould beaimedattargetlinestothenortheast,northornorthwest

unlessthereissufficientstandingtimberornaturaltopographicfeaturesonthepropertycontrolled

bytherangeoperatortomitigatetheeffectsofglarefromthesun.

F. Drainageand

ErosionControl.Therangeandassociatedfacilitiesshallbedesignedtokeepstorm

runofffromtherangesiteatavolumeandvelocitynogreaterthanwhatexistedpriortorange

development.Appropriateerosioncontrolmeasuresshallbedesignedandinstalledtomaintainthe

waterqualityofthestormrunoff

fromtherangetopredevelopmentlevels.

G. Allbackstopsshall havesufficientdepthofsandorothersimilarsoftearthenmaterialthatisfreeof

rocks,stonesandotherhardobjectsthatmayresultinbulletricochets.Allmanmadebermsshallbe

vegetatedtoreducethepotentialforerosion.Amanmade,

mechanicalbackstopmaybesubstituted

uponapprovalofthePlanningBoard.Allbackstopsandbermsshallbemaintainedtoperformtheir

intendedfunctions.

H. Firingrangesshallbedevelopedsuchthattherearenostreams,ponds, lakes,orotherwater courses

orwetlandslocatedbetweenanyfiringlineandtargetline

orwithinanyshotgunshotfallzone.

Application–Requiredinformation.

InadditiontothegeneralinformationrequiredbythisChapter,thefollowinginformationisrequiredfor

aspecialusepermitapplicationforapublicoutdoorshootingrange:

A. Anassessor’smapofthesubjectproperty;

B. Thetypesoffirearms,ammunition

andshootingtobeallowed,suchastrap,skeet,muzzleloader,

highpowerrifle,smallborerifle,pistol,actionpistol,etc.;

C. Asiteplandrawntoscaleillustratingtheitemslistedbelow.Thesiteplanshallbedrawnatascale

notsmallerthanone‐inchequals200feet,

andnotlargerthanone‐inchequals50feet:

1. Thepropertylinesoftheparcel(s)onwhichthefiringrange(s)aretobedeveloped,

2. Forrifleandpistolranges,thesafetyfananditscomponentpartswithdimensionsforallfiring

ranges;forshotgunfiringranges,thecomponentparts

anddimensionsoftheshotfallzones,



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 229 

3. Allexistingandproposedstructuresontherange,labeledfortheirintendeduse,

4. Thelocationanddimensionsofallfiringlinesandfiringpositions,

5. Thelocationanddimensionsofalltargetlinesandrelatedfacilities,

6. Thelocations,dimensionsandslopeofallbackstopsandsideberms,

whethernaturalor

manmade;thevolume,materialandsourceofallimportedmaterialsshallbenoted,

7. Thelocationsanddimensionsofallbaffles;horizontaldrawingsofthebafflesshallbeincluded,

andbuildingmaterialsshallbeidentified,

8. Thelocationanddimensionsofallwalkways,

9. Allscreening,landscapingand

fencing,

10. Thelocationofallutilities,includingbutnotlimitedtoelectrical,potablewater,wastewater

disposal,anddrainageways,bothnaturalandartificial,

11. Thelocationofalllightingfacilities,

12. Thelocationofallroads,driveways,andparkingfacilities,includingthenumberofparking

spaces,

13. Thelocation

ofallstreams,watercourses,andwetlandsontheproperty;

D. Forrifleandpistolrangesonly,longitudinalcross‐sectionsofthatportionofeachfiringrangefrom10

feetbehindeachfiringlineto10feetbeyondthedownrangeterminusofeachdirectfirezone,10

feetbeyondthebacktoe

ofeachbackstopifmanmade,orifnatural,20feetbeyondthefrontedgeof

thebackstop,asapplicable;andlatitudinalcross‐sections,from10feetoutsideanysidebermsorthe

edgeofeachsafetyfan,oftypicalareasbetweeneachfiringlineandbackstopordownrange

terminusof

thedirectfirezone;

E. Alistofallpropertyownerswithin2,640feetoftheperimeterofthepropertyonwhichthepublic

outdoorshootingrangeisproposedfordevelopment;

F. Thelandusesofallpropertiesabuttingtheshootingrangeprop erty;

G. OtherinformationdeemedappropriatebytheCEO.



H. Inspections.

Nooutdoorshootingrangeshallcommenceoperationsuntiltherangehasbeeninspectedand

approvedbytheCEOorhis/herdesigneetoensurethatthefacilitiesanddevelopmentoftherange

conformwiththespecialusepermitissued.TheCEOordesigneeshallinformtheapplicant,inwriting,

within10daysofhis/herinspection,whetherthepublicoutdoorshootingrangemeetsthe

requirementsofthepermit;anydeficienciesshallalsobenoted,andoperationsshallnotcommence

untiltheyhavebeencorrectedandthesitere‐inspectedandapproved.

 



Town of Chatham Zoning Law, Chapter 180 Update as of September 30, 2019 230 

AppendixC.AgriculturalDataStatement



Instructions:Thisformmustbecompletedbytheapplicant foranyapplicationforaspecialusepermit,

siteplanapproval,usevarianceorasubdivisionapprovalrequiringmunicipalreviewthatwouldoccur

onpropertywithin500feetofafarmoperationlocatedinaNYSAgandmarketscertifiedAgricultural

Districtorotherwise.CountyPlanningBoardreviewisalsorequired.AcopyofthisAgriculturalData

StatementmustbesubmittedalongwiththereferraltotheColumbiaCountyPlanningDepartment.



1. NameandAddressofApplicant:________________________________________



2. Typeofapplication(Checkoneormore):



SpecialUsePermitSite

PlanApprovalUseorAreaVarianceSubdivisionApproval



3. Descriptionofproposedprojecttoinclude(1)sizeofparceloracreageandtaxmapidentification

numberoftaxparcel(s)involved;(2)thetypeofaction(single‐familydwellingorsubdivision,

multifamilydevelopment,apartment,commercialorindustrial,school,non‐

residentialuse,etc.,

and(3)abriefdescriptionoftheprojectsize,intensity,densityofhomes,etc.(Pleaseprovidethis

informationonthereversesideofthisapplicationandattachadditionaldescriptionasnecessary).



4. IsthisparcelwithinanAgriculturalDistrict? Yes  No



5. IfYes,what

istheAgriculturalDistrictNumber?____________



6. Isthisparcelactivelyfarmed?Yes No



7. Listallfarmoperationswithin500feet ofyourparcel.Attachadditionalsheetsifnecessary.

A. Name:______________________________________

AddressandTelephone#:______________________ ______________

TypeofFarm:_____________________________________________Is

thisparcelactivelyfarmed? Yes

No

B. Name:______________________________________

AddressandTelephone#:______________________ ______________

TypeofFarm:_____________________________________________Is

thisparcelactivelyfarmed?YesNo

C. Name:______________________________________

AddressandTelephone#:______________________ ______________

TypeofFarm:_____________________________________________

Isthisparcelactivelyfarmed? YesNo



8. SignatureofApplicant:____________________________________________



9. Reviewedby:___________________________Date:____________________



(

T-2

(

T-3

(

T-1

RL-2

RL-1

H-1

RL-1

RL-3

RL-1

H-1

RL-1

RL-3

RL-2

RL-3

H-1

RL-3

H-1

RL-1

RL-3

H-1

RL-3

H-2

H-1

H-2

RL-1

H-2

H-1

H-2

RL-1

Chatham

East Nassau

Valatie

Nassau

I 90

STATE ROUTE 66

ALBANY TPKE

STATE HWY 987G

HIGHLAND RD

ROCK CITY RD

COUNTY ROUTE 9

STATE ROUTE 295

PITT RD

FORD RD

BASHFORD RD

STATE ROUTE 203

WHITE MILLS RD

COUNTY ROUTE 32

REED RD

COUNTY ROUTE 13

COUNTY ROUTE 17

COUNTY ROUTE 28

ROUTE 66

CLARK RD

HANLEY RD

RAUP RD

HENNETT RD

BUNKER HILL RD

HADDOCK HILL RD

SHAKER MUSEUM RD

US ROUTE 20

JEFFERSON HILL RD

RIDERS MILLS RD

COTTER RD

MASON RD

GOOLD RD

BUSHNELL RD

COUNTY ROUTE 21

PRATT RD

ASHLEY HILL RD

THOMAS RD

DALEY RD

BROWN LN

WATERBURY RD

KINGMAN RD

RAMP

MASHODACK RD

MERWIN RD

MCCAGG RD

WOODWARD RD

DORLAND RD

MALDEN BRIDGE RD

PERCY HILL RD

SHU FELT R D

FRISBEE ST

HARTIGAN RD

BRADLYS CROSSING RD

GARRIGAN RD

LOOMIS RD

ROBS RD

RICHMOND RD

ELLIOTT RD

COUNTY ROUTE 21B

SUTHERLAND RD

UPPER CADY RD

NEW CONCORD RD

HUNT CLUB RD

BROWN RD

HAWLEY RD

N CROSS RD

SILVERNAIL R D

PHELPS RD

COUNTY ROUTE 28B

COUNTY ROUTE 24

HARRIS RD

TEN BROECK RD

SEVEN BRIDGES RD

HUDSON AVE

KINDERHOOK LN

RIVER ST

GEORGE RD

FOWLER LAKE RD

POND HILL RD

WAITE RD

PAYN AVE

BLISS SCHOOLHOUSE RD

STATE HWY 295

PIERSON RD

SINCAVICH RD

JEFFERSON HILL LN

HIGH ST

THORNE RD

BOICE RD

LONGVIEW DR

CENTER ST

PITT HALL R D

DROWN RD

WHITE BRIDGE RD

TRAILER PARK

GARNER RD

SYRING RD

RIVER RD

OLD ROUTE 20

BIRGE HILL RD

SPRING ST

W SHORE DR

BACHUS RD

MESICK RD

ENGEL RD

S CROSS RD

IRON HILL RD

HOWES RD

HUNT RD

LOCUST ST

SULLIVAN RD

FAIRWAY DR

WEST ST

PEBBLE LN

PINTO RANCH RD

PARKER HALL RD

HARMON HEIGHTS RD

LUNDY LN

LOWER CADY RD

KINDERHOOK ST

DEVINE LN

CHURCH ST

WILDFLOWER RD

HIGH BRIDGE RD

UNNAMED STREET

COUNTY ROUTE 61

SPANGLER RD

MIDDLE RD

THOMPSON LN

BELA FONTE RD

WALDORF RD

GREY FOX LN

BLUEBERRY HILL RD

HOOSE RD

HUNTER DR S

WADSWORTH HILL RD

OLD ROUTE 66

SESAME ST

LITTLE LAKE RD

BAR RY LN

KINDERHOOK AVE

OTTOVILLE RD

ALESSI RD

MHP

BOWMAN RD

SMIT H RD

CYNTHIA LN

SHORE RD

CRAMBURG LN

ELM ST

COLEMAN ST

WOODBRIDGE AVE

CHADWYCKE CT

HUNTER DR N

CAROLYN RD

HICKS RD

MILL ST

CORSEY RD

KINDER HILL BLVD

EBERLE RD

CHATHAM HILL RD

DRIVEWAY

SWEETS CROSSING RD

LAMOREE RD

HAMILTON LN

CHASE HILL RD

GREEN BROOK DR

BARNES MILL RD

CHAPEL DR

HOFFMAN ST

ROWE RD

DARDESS DR

PUNSIT VIEW DR

DOWDY RD

KIPP U

REAL VIEW DR

MOORE AVE

HARRINGTON LN

ROSE ST

SHADOW CHURCH LN

KAREN CT

MARRA DR

2ND ST

CAMBRIDGE MDWS

ZAENGLEIN RD

LESS TRAVELED RD

DEPOT ST

BLACK BRIDGE RD

BROOKFIELD FARM LN

COUNTY HWY 61

FINCH ST

CHERRY LN

EVELYN DR

3RD ST

HOLLOW RD

RAMP

COUNTY ROUTE 9

US ROUTE 20

RAMP

FAIRWAY DR

DRIVEWAY

JEFFERSON HILL RD

STATE ROUTE 203

RAMP

DRIVEWAY

COUNTY ROUTE 13

EBERLE RD

STATE ROUTE 203

I 90

UNNAMED STREET

ALBANY TPKE

RAMP

DRIVEWAY

STATE HWY 987G

RAMP

UNNAMED STREET

DRIVEWAY

Town of Chatham

Columbia County, NY

0120.5 Miles

Current Zoning

(Originally Produced for the

2009 Comprehensive Plan)

Town Boundary

Village Boundaries

Property Boundaries

Water Features

Streams

Communication Tower

Overlay Districts

Zoning Districts

Rural Land 1

Rural Land 2

Rural Land 3

Hamlet 1

Hamlet 2

Industrial

Business

Village

1-10-2017

Chatham

East Nassau

Valatie

Nassau

I 90

STATE ROUTE 66

ALBANY TPKE

STATE HWY 987G

HIGHLAND RD

ROCK CITY RD

COUNTY ROUTE 9

STATE ROUTE 295

PITT RD

FORD RD

BASHFORD RD

STATE ROUTE 203

WHITE MILLS RD

COUNTY ROUTE 32

REED RD

COUNTY ROUTE 13

COUNTY ROUTE 17

COUNTY ROUTE 28

ROUTE 66

CLARK RD

HANLEY RD

RAUP RD

HENNETT RD

BUNKER HILL RD

HADDOCK HILL RD

SHAKER MUSEUM RD

US ROUTE 20

JEFFERSON HILL RD

RIDERS MILLS RD

COTTER RD

MASON RD

GOOLD RD

COUNTY ROUTE 21

BUSHNELL RD

PRATT RD

ASHLEY HILL RD

THOMAS RD

DALEY RD

BROWN LN

WATERBURY RD

KINGMAN RD

MASHODACK RD

RAMP

MERWIN RD

MCCAGG RD

WOODWARD RD

DORLAND RD

MALDEN BRIDGE RD

PERCY HILL RD

SHUFELT RD

FRISBEE ST

HARTIGAN RD

BRADLYS CROSSING RD

GARRIGAN RD

LOOMIS RD

ROBS RD

RICHMOND RD

ELLIOTT RD

FOWLER LAKE RD

COUNTY ROUTE 21B

SUTHERLAND RD

UPPER CADY RD

COUNTY ROUTE 28A

NEW CONCORD RD

HUNT CLUB RD

BROWN RD

HAWLEY RD

N CROSS RD

SILVERNAIL RD

PHELPS RD

COUNTY ROUTE 24

COUNTY ROUTE 28B

TEN BROECK RD

HARRIS RD

SEVEN BRIDGES RD

HUDSON AVE

KINDERHOOK LN

RIVER ST

GEORGE RD

POND HILL RD

WAITE RD

PAYN AVE

STATE HWY 295

BLISS SCHOOLHOUSE RD

JEFFERSON HILL LN

PIERSON RD

SINCAVICH RD

HIGH ST

GARNER RD

THORNE RD

BOICE RD

LONGVIEW DR

CENTER ST

PITT HALL RD

DROWN RD

WHITE BRIDGE RD

OLD ROUTE 20

TRAILER PARK

SYRING RD

W SHORE DR

RIVER RD

BIRGE HILL RD

SPRING ST

MESICK RD

ENGEL RD

S CROSS RD

IRON HILL RD

HOWES RD

LOCUST ST

SULLIVAN RD

FAIRWAY DR

WEST ST

PEBBLE LN

PINTO RANCH RD

PARKER HALL RD

HARMON HEIGHTS RD

LUNDY LN

LOWER CADY RD

EBERLE RD

KINDERHOOK ST

DEVINE LN

WILDFLOWER RD

HIGH BRIDGE RD

UNNAMED STREET

COUNTY ROUTE 61

MIDDLE RD

THOMPSON LN

BELAFONTE RD

WALDORF RD

GREY FOX LN

DEWITT BROWN RD

MACEDONIA RD

BLUEBERRY HILL RD

WADSWORTH HILL RD

HUNTER DR S

OLD ROUTE 66

SESAME ST

LITTLE LAKE RD

OTTOVILLE RD

BARRY LN

E SHORE DR

ALESSI RD

MHP

BOWMAN RD

SMITH RD

CYNTHIA LN

SHORE RD

CRESTVIEW DR

RIDERS MILL RD

CONCOURSE

COLEMAN ST

WOODBRIDGE AVE

CHADWYCKE CT

CHURCH ST

HUNTER DR N

CAROLYN RD

OLD MILL ST

HICKS RD

CORSEY RD

DORN RD

KINDER HILL BLVD

HOUSEMAN AVE

CHATHAM HILL RD

DRIVEWAY

SWEETS CROSSING RD

LAMOREE RD

HAMILTON LN

CHASE HILL RD

GREEN BROOK DR

BARNES MILL RD

TILDEN AVE

LOVERS LN

ROWE RD

COLUMBIA AVE

REAL VIEW DR

MOORE AVE

HARRINGTON LN

SPATH ST

KAREN CT

MARRA DR

CAMBRIDGE MDWS

ZAENGLEIN RD

DEPOT ST

FINCH ST

CHERRY LN

EVELYN DR

RAMP

COUNTY ROUTE 9

US ROUTE 20

RAMP

FAIRWAY DR

JEFFERSON HILL RD

STATE ROUTE 203

RAMP

HUNT CLUB RD

COUNTY ROUTE 13

STATE ROUTE 203

I 90

EBERLE RD

ALBANY TPKE

STATE ROUTE 203

RAMP

STATE HWY 987G

UNNAMED STREET

DRIVEWAY

Town of Chatham

Columbia County, NY

0120.5 Miles

EPO-1

Environmental Protection Overlay

Steep Slopes

Ridgelines identified as highly visible

EPO1 Steep Slopes (15-25%)

EPO1 Steep Slopes (over 25%)

Draft Map Date:

7-19-2017

Chatham

East Nassau

Valatie

Nassau

I 90

STATE ROUTE 66

ALBANY TPKE

STATE HWY 987G

HIGHLAND RD

ROCK CITY RD

COUNTY ROUTE 9

STATE ROUTE 295

PITT RD

FORD RD

BASHFORD RD

STATE ROUTE 203

WHITE MILLS RD

COUNTY ROUTE 32

REED RD

COUNTY ROUTE 13

COUNTY ROUTE 17

COUNTY ROUTE 28

ROUTE 66

CLARK RD

HANLEY RD

RAUP RD

HENNETT RD

BUNKER HILL RD

HADDOCK HILL RD

SHAKER MUSEUM RD

US ROUTE 20

JEFFERSON HILL RD

RIDERS MILLS RD

COTTER RD

MASON RD

GOOLD RD

COUNTY ROUTE 21

BUSHNELL RD

PRATT RD

ASHLEY HILL RD

THOMAS RD

DALEY RD

BROWN LN

WATERBURY RD

KINGMAN RD

MASHODACK RD

RAMP

MERWIN RD

MCCAGG RD

WOODWARD RD

DORLAND RD

MALDEN BRIDGE RD

PERCY HILL RD

SHUFELT RD

FRISBEE ST

HARTIGAN RD

BRADLYS CROSSING RD

GARRIGAN RD

LOOMIS RD

ROBS RD

RICHMOND RD

ELLIOTT RD

FOWLER LAKE RD

COUNTY ROUTE 21B

SUTHERLAND RD

UPPER CADY RD

COUNTY ROUTE 28A

NEW CONCORD RD

HUNT CLUB RD

BROWN RD

HAWLEY RD

N CROSS RD

SILVERNAIL RD

PHELPS RD

COUNTY ROUTE 24

COUNTY ROUTE 28B

TEN BROECK RD

HARRIS RD

SEVEN BRIDGES RD

HUDSON AVE

KINDERHOOK LN

RIVER ST

GEORGE RD

POND HILL RD

WAITE RD

PAYN AVE

STATE HWY 295

BLISS SCHOOLHOUSE RD

JEFFERSON HILL LN

PIERSON RD

SINCAVICH RD

HIGH ST

GARNER RD

THORNE RD

BOICE RD

LONGVIEW DR

CENTER ST

PITT HALL RD

DROWN RD

WHITE BRIDGE RD

OLD ROUTE 20

TRAILER PARK

SYRING RD

W SHORE DR

RIVER RD

BIRGE HILL RD

SPRING ST

MESICK RD

ENGEL RD

S CROSS RD

IRON HILL RD

HOWES RD

LOCUST ST

SULLIVAN RD

FAIRWAY DR

WEST ST

PEBBLE LN

PINTO RANCH RD

PARKER HALL RD

HARMON HEIGHTS RD

LUNDY LN

LOWER CADY RD

EBERLE RD

KINDERHOOK ST

DEVINE LN

WILDFLOWER RD

HIGH BRIDGE RD

UNNAMED STREET

COUNTY ROUTE 61

MIDDLE RD

THOMPSON LN

BELAFONTE RD

WALDORF RD

GREY FOX LN

DEWITT BROWN RD

MACEDONIA RD

BLUEBERRY HILL RD

WADSWORTH HILL RD

HUNTER DR S

OLD ROUTE 66

SESAME ST

LITTLE LAKE RD

OTTOVILLE RD

BARRY LN

E SHORE DR

ALESSI RD

MHP

BOWMAN RD

SMITH RD

CYNTHIA LN

SHORE RD

CRESTVIEW DR

RIDERS MILL RD

CONCOURSE

COLEMAN ST

WOODBRIDGE AVE

CHADWYCKE CT

CHURCH ST

HUNTER DR N

CAROLYN RD

OLD MILL ST

HICKS RD

CORSEY RD

DORN RD

KINDER HILL BLVD

HOUSEMAN AVE

CHATHAM HILL RD

DRIVEWAY

SWEETS CROSSING RD

LAMOREE RD

HAMILTON LN

CHASE HILL RD

GREEN BROOK DR

BARNES MILL RD

TILDEN AVE

LOVERS LN

ROWE RD

COLUMBIA AVE

REAL VIEW DR

MOORE AVE

HARRINGTON LN

SPATH ST

KAREN CT

MARRA DR

CAMBRIDGE MDWS

ZAENGLEIN RD

DEPOT ST

FINCH ST

CHERRY LN

EVELYN DR

RAMP

COUNTY ROUTE 9

US ROUTE 20

RAMP

FAIRWAY DR

JEFFERSON HILL RD

STATE ROUTE 203

RAMP

HUNT CLUB RD

COUNTY ROUTE 13

STATE ROUTE 203

I 90

EBERLE RD

ALBANY TPKE

STATE ROUTE 203

RAMP

STATE HWY 987G

UNNAMED STREET

DRIVEWAY

Town of Chatham

Columbia County, NY

0120.5 Miles

EPO-2

Environmental Protection Overlay

Ridgelines

Ridgelines identified as highly visible

EPO2 Ridgeline Protection Area - 1/8 mile

Draft Map Date:

7-19-2017