When are Projects
Eligible for a Site Plan Review Waiver?
The Site Plan Review (SPR) regulations allow for certain types of
minor projects, which are likely to be less impacting, to be waived
from the full SPR process that would normally be required to approve
their construction. These projects are eligible for an expedited
review called the “Site Plan Review Waiver (SPRW),” during which the
SPR standards are analyzed in a shorter timeframe (2 weeks). In
the plains, nonresidential accessory structures that are less than
5,000 square feet are eligible for this expedited review; in the
mountainous areas of the county, nonresidential accessory structures
less than 2,000 square feet are eligible for this expedited review.
Additionally, increases in residential floor area up to 2,000 sq.
ft., which result in a total residential size on the parcel that is
125% or less of the median residential floor area for the defined
neighborhood may be reviewed through this expedited review, as well
as earthwork involving less than 500 cubic yards. Waivers from SPR
may be granted if the Land Use Department does not find the proposal
to be in conflict with the standards listed in
Article 4-806 of the Boulder
County Land Use Code. However, the SPRW determination may
include written terms and conditions. The project, even if granted a
waiver, is subject to the applicable building permit and building
code requirements.
Article 4-802(C) requires that adjacent property owners be
notified of the request to waive SPR and be given seven days to
respond.
Development
proposed on conservation easements held by Boulder
County or located within a Natural Landmark or Natural
Area (including the associated 250 ft. buffer) described
in the Boulder County Comprehensive Plan cannot be waived. |
