Term
| What aspects of the project does topography affect? |
|
Definition
Where to place site features; buildings, parking areas, drives.
How much soil has to be moved to maintain desired slopes and drainage patterns. |
|
|
Term
| What topographic pattern represents a ridge? |
|
Definition
| When the contours "point" in the direction of downslope. |
|
|
Term
| What topographic pattern represents a valley? |
|
Definition
| When the contours "point" in the direction of upslope. |
|
|
Term
| What topographic pattern represents a concave slope? |
|
Definition
| More closely spaced contours near top of slope. |
|
|
Term
| What topographic pattern represents a convex slope? |
|
Definition
| More closely spaced contours near bottom of slope. |
|
|
Term
| Modifications to land should be minimal. Why? |
|
Definition
1. It costs $$ to move soil in or out of the site.
2. Work on steep slopes is more $$ than on gentle slopes.
3. It affects drainage and requires more work to resolve drainage patterns.
4. It could require retaining walls, which increases $$.
5. It may damage existing tree roots. |
|
|
Term
| Is it better to orient the building parallel or perpendicular to the contour lines? |
|
Definition
| Parallel to minimize excavation work, and thus $$. |
|
|
Term
Existing contours are shown with _______ lines.
New contours are shown with _______ lines. |
|
Definition
Existing - dashed lines.
New - solid lines. |
|
|
Term
| In regards to contours, what has to happen at the property line? |
|
Definition
| Site contours must match up with adjacent property contours at the property line, or a retaining wall must be used. |
|
|
Term
| Is it best practice to modify contours within the drip line of trees? |
|
Definition
| No, you could damage tree roots. |
|
|
Term
| What 3 aspects of site planning does solar orientation affect? |
|
Definition
1. Solar heat gain or loss
2. Location of outdoor spaces and activities
3. Location of building entries |
|
|
Term
| When should you locate the sun path relative to your site? |
|
Definition
Before design.
This will tell you the sun angles at various times of day and seasons to make better informed decisions regarding building orientation. |
|
|
Term
| In the northern hemisphere, what time of year is the sun at its lowest and highest points? |
|
Definition
Lowest - around December 21
Highest - around June 21 |
|
|
Term
| In the northern hemisphere, when is the vernal equinox? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| In the northern hemisphere, when is the autumnal equinox? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Where does the sun rise and set during the vernal and autumnal equinoxes? |
|
Definition
| Directly above the equator |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The angle of the sun above the horizon. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The angle of the sun north or south from an east-west line. |
|
|
Term
| The orientation of a building on the site has a huge effect on what 2 aspects of the building? |
|
Definition
1. Energy gains and losses of the building.
2. Comfort of the users inside the building. |
|
|
Term
| What is the best overall orientation for a building in the northern hemisphere? |
|
Definition
| South or slightly east or west of south. |
|
|
Term
| What is the most ideal orientation of a building in the northern hemisphere and why? |
|
Definition
5 to 25 degrees east of due south.
To balance desired heat gains in the winter with minimal heat gains on the east-west facades in the summer. |
|
|
Term
| Why are overhangs a good passive solar strategy? |
|
Definition
| To block high-angled sun in the summer and allow low-angled sun in the winter. |
|
|
Term
| Which is the best façade to use overhangs? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Which type of tree is the best passive solar strategy and why? |
|
Definition
Deciduous trees.
They block summer sun when they are in full bloom and allow winter sun when they lose their leaves. |
|
|
Term
| Which façade(s) benefit most from vertical fins or baffles and why? |
|
Definition
East and west facades.
The sun is at its lowest angle in the morning and evening, rising in the east and setting in the west. |
|
|
Term
| Are louvers more effective on the exterior or interior of the building and why? |
|
Definition
Exterior.
They block sun before it enters the building. |
|
|
Term
| What are the solar orientation strategies for outdoor spaces in each of the 4 climate types? |
|
Definition
Hot-humid & hot-arid: shade
Temperate: winter sun, summer shade
Cold: sun, located entries on S façade to melt ice and snow in winter |
|
|
Term
| What aspects of the building design should wind patterns affect? |
|
Definition
1. Building orientation
2. Location and size of windows and openings
3. Outdoor spaces - either take advantage of cooling breezes in summer or shield from cold winter winds. |
|
|
Term
| Shielding from winter winds can reduce heat loss through walls. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Providing for natural ventilation can help cool the building in summer. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What elements can be used for wind breaks? |
|
Definition
Vegetation
Buildings
Screens
Fences |
|
|
Term
| What are the 4 general climatic regions in the US? |
|
Definition
Cool
Temperate
Hot-humid
Hot-arid |
|
|
Term
| How many climate zones are in the US DOE map? |
|
Definition
8 climate zones
4 subzones |
|
|
Term
| What are the 4 subzones of the US DOE map? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the difference between the 4 general climatic zones and the 8 climatic zones from the US DOE? |
|
Definition
The 4 general climatic regions can be used for basis of design.
The 8 specific regions are for more detailed analysis. |
|
|
Term
| Name good design strategies for a cool climate. |
|
Definition
>Compact forms, smallest surface area relative to volume.
>Large, S facing windows; small E-W windows, minimal N windows
>High thermal mass interior materials
>Shade windows in summer
>Dark colors for exterior |
|
|
Term
| Name good design strategies for a temperate climate. |
|
Definition
>Rectangular buildings, long direction oriented along E-W axis, facing slightly E
>Shade windows in summer, allow sun in winter
>S facing windows and openings with overhangs
>Use wind cooling in summer, block wind in winter
>Medium colors for exterior |
|
|
Term
| Name good design strategies for a hot-humid climate. |
|
Definition
>Shade all openings
>Maximize natural ventilation - large openings, high ceilings, cross ventilation
>Light-weight building materials
>Minimize thermal mass
>Light colors for exterior |
|
|
Term
| Name good design strategies for a hot-arid climate. |
|
Definition
>Compact forms, smallest surface area relative to volume.
>Minimize opening sizes
>Shade all openings
>Maximize thermal mass - heavy materials
>Light colors for exterior |
|
|
Term
| What does the usefulness of a parcel of land depend on? |
|
Definition
| Existence of adequate roads and utilities to serve it. |
|
|
Term
| Land is of little value for any kind of development if it is not readily accessible. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What do you typically begin with in land planning or site planning? |
|
Definition
| The layout of the surface road systems. |
|
|
Term
| Why are vehicular circulation systems are a primary structuring element of a land use plan? |
|
Definition
| They determine the location of utility and communication networks and pedestrian circulation systems. |
|
|
Term
| What is the Grid System in land planning? |
|
Definition
| Equally spaced streets or roads which are perpendicular to each other. Regularity, simplicity, convenience. |
|
|
Term
| What is an advantage of the Grid System in land planning? |
|
Definition
| Provides great efficiency of movement and ease of orientation without necessarily being monotonous or ignoring the natural topo of the area. |
|
|
Term
| What is the Radial System in land planning? |
|
Definition
| Directs flow to or from a common center, with straight channels of circulation radiating from this center point. Often with a beltway road connecting outlying radials. |
|
|
Term
| What is the Linear System in land planning? |
|
Definition
| Connects flow between two points, either along a single line or along a series of parallel lines. |
|
|
Term
| What are the advantages and disadvantages of a Linear System in land planning? |
|
Definition
Adv
Useful where development is restricted by natural topo or where development parallels an existing transportation artery.
Disadv
Does not develop a focal point.
"Strip commercial" development. |
|
|
Term
| What is the Curvilinear System in land planning? |
|
Definition
| Responds to the topo of land and aligns with natural contours. |
|
|
Term
| The development potential of land is largely determined by the system of traffic access to the land. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are the basic categories of traffic arteries? |
|
Definition
1. Freeways, expressways or motorways
2. Arterial streets or highways
3. Collector-distributor streets
4. Local access streets |
|
|
Term
| What defines a freeway (expressway)? |
|
Definition
Freeways are designed to allow movement of large volumes of traffic between, around, or through urban centers.
All features are designed for safety and rapidity of large-volume movement.
Crossings handled with under- or over-passes.
No grade-level crossings. |
|
|
Term
| What defines an arterial street (highway)? |
|
Definition
Arterial streets are continuous vehicular channels that connect with expressways by means of on- and off-ramps.
Typically 2-3 lanes wide.
Grade level crossings are controlled by traffic signals. |
|
|
Term
| What defines collector-distributor streets? |
|
Definition
They serve as the transition between arterial streets and the local access streets of neighborhoods.
Provide access to adjacent residential properties.
Frequently discontinuous to prevent through-traffic. |
|
|
Term
| What defines local access streets? |
|
Definition
Provide access to low-intensity uses fronting them.
Carry low traffic flows.
Unrestricted pedestrian use. |
|
|
Term
| What order does vehicular traffic flow? |
|
Definition
| Local access streets --> collector, distributor streets --> arterial streets --> freeways, expressways |
|
|
Term
| What does the "cross section" of a road include? |
|
Definition
pavement
curbs
gutters
shoulders
walks
landscaped border strips
lighting
signs
traffic signals
utilities
All are included in the road "right-of-way" |
|
|
Term
| What is the typical slope of a road? |
|
Definition
| 1/8 - 1/2 inch per foot to provide positive drainage. |
|
|
Term
| What is the typical size of a curb and gutter? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are the preferred materials for street paving? |
|
Definition
concrete
asphaltic concrete
gravel
decomposed granite
stabilized soil
graded and compacted earth |
|
|
Term
Traffic lanes for individual vehicles for major roads: 11-12' wide.
Shoulders: 9' wide on either side |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| How wide is a landscaped strip between a sidewalk and a street? |
|
Definition
7' if contains trees
4' if only ground cover |
|
|
Term
| Roads consist of tangents and curves. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Horizontal road alignment curves are usually a piece of a circle since a car steering is circular. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Variation in grade should be minimal but should balance the cost of regarding.
The higher speed of traffic, the greater need to minimize grade change. |
|
|
Term
| What is the benefit of horizontal and vertical curves in road design? |
|
Definition
| They allow the designer to fit a road to existing topo while taking advantage of natural site features and maintaining economy in design. |
|
|
Term
| A serious consequence of poor road design is the danger of improperly placed intersections. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What kinds of road intersections should be avoided? |
|
Definition
Acute angle intersection: Angle between intersecting streets is < 80-85 degrees.
Slightly off-set intersection: difficult for cross traffic to navigate, and impedes flow of road being crossed. |
|
|
Term
| What are some good strategies for road intersection design? |
|
Definition
Straight line intersections.
Intersections offset by no less than 150'.
Separate intersections on major arterial roads by at least 800'. |
|
|
Term
| The length of a cul-de-sac should not exceed 400' and turning radius should be at least 80' and free of parking. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are examples of traffic control devices? |
|
Definition
stop signs
traffic signals
turning lanes
islands
medians
grade separations |
|
|
Term
| What is the maximum depth of a loop street? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the maximum length of a block? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the standard curb-cut radii for regular and major intersections? |
|
Definition
12' for regular intersections
50' for major intersections |
|
|
Term
| What is the number of vehicles per hour through an intersection when a traffic signal is required? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| When are grade separations on roads warranted? |
|
Definition
At 3,000 vehicles or more per hour.
Most expensive and space-consuming type of intersection.
Most common type is the clover leaf. |
|
|
Term
| What type of road intersection is used when expressways intersect secondary (arterial) roads? |
|
Definition
| Diamond; economical and use relatively little space. |
|
|
Term
| What are the typical slopes of on- and off-ramps of expressways? |
|
Definition
On ramps: between 3-6%
Off ramps: 8% |
|
|
Term
| Ideally, locate the on-site approach drive with a view of the building entrance. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| At what number of cars does traffic flow in parking areas becomes critical? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Where a mixture of vehicle types is anticipated, the design must consider the largest vehicle to be accommodated. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the minimum width for a typical parking stall? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the typical length of a parking stall? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the minimum width of a one-way parking circulation aisle? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the minimum width of a two-way parking circulation aisle with 90 degree stalls? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the minimum width of a two-way parking circulation aisle with angled stalls? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the estimated sf per vehicle of parking area? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the ratio of parking to GSF for office buildings? |
|
Definition
1 parking stall for every 350-400 GSF of floor area
This ratio is usually found in the zoning ordinances. |
|
|
Term
| What is the maximum slope for a ramp in a parking area? |
|
Definition
15%
For ramps over 10%, an 8' transition is required at each end of the ramp and should be half of the slope of the ramp itself. |
|
|
Term
| What are the minimum and maximum slopes for parking areas? |
|
Definition
minimum 1% for drainage
maximum 5% |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Multi-level underground or above-ground parking structures might be preferable to surface parking - if justified by land and construction costs. |
|
Definition
| Price per sf might be less in a multi-level structure versus the same sf on grade. |
|
|
Term
| What is the area covered by a person standing still? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the area required for a person to feel comfortable in a crowd? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the minimum width of a sidewalk? |
|
Definition
5' for typical
6' to 10' for collector walkways handling larger numbers of people |
|
|
Term
| Pedestrian movement follows the line of least resistance. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are the primary objectives of a good pedestrian circulation design? |
|
Definition
safety
security
convenience
continuity
comfort
attractiveness |
|
|
Term
| What is a good way to separate pedestrian traffic from vehicular traffic? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are elements that can improve the pedestrian experience moving between spaces? |
|
Definition
landscaping
paving
weather protection
fountains
benches |
|
|
Term
| What is the population density threshold for an economical collective transit system? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are the elements of a collective transit system? |
|
Definition
walking
local bus
express bus
rail rapid transit |
|
|
Term
| What are the characteristics of walking as a collective transit element? |
|
Definition
most basic form of urban transportation
walking speed is from 2.5 - 4.5 mph
max. distance people will walk to a destination is 0.25 - 0.5 miles. |
|
|
Term
| What amount of time are people willing to spend for most urban travel? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are the characteristics of the local bus as a collective transit element? |
|
Definition
useful for short trips in high density areas
travels at about 15-30 mph |
|
|
Term
| What are the characteristics of the express bus as a collective transit element? |
|
Definition
useful in high density areas at convenient terminals
travels at about 40-60 mph |
|
|
Term
| What are the characteristics of the rail rapid transit as a collective transit element? |
|
Definition
useful between different densities
concentrations of people
travels at about 40-70 mph |
|
|
Term
| What is Transit Oriented Design (TOD)? |
|
Definition
| When housing, commercial and institutional development is located near existing mass transit. An effort to reduce dependency on the automobile. |
|
|
Term
| What type of disability affects the physical layout and configuration of site and buildings? |
|
Definition
| non-ambulatory (wheelchairs) |
|
|
Term
| What is the minimum clear space for a wheelchair to turn 180 degrees? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the minimum width for two wheelchairs to pass each other? |
|
Definition
60"
All public walks must be at least 5' wide. |
|
|
Term
| What is the maximum allowable slope of a walk for handicap access? |
|
Definition
| 1:20 or 5% with a maximum cross slope of 1:50 or 2%. |
|
|
Term
| What are the dimensions of an accessible curb cut in a walkway? |
|
Definition
3' wide
Flared sides with a max. slope of 1:10
Ramp slope max. 1:12 |
|
|
Term
| At what measurement of vertical drop should a ramp be employed for accessibility? |
|
Definition
| 1/2" and should not exceed a slope of 1:12, preferably 1:16. |
|
|
Term
| What are the minimum requirements of accessible ramps? |
|
Definition
Max. slope: 1:12
Preferred slope: 1:16
Min. 3' wide
Max. 30' long
At each end and at any turn, must have a level area at least 5' long.
Handrails are required on each side if the rise is greater than 6", or it's run is longer than 72".
If ramp is above finish grade, a protective curb must be installed on the open side. |
|
|
Term
| What are the minimum dimensions of an accessible parking space? |
|
Definition
| 8' wide with a 5' access aisle between every 2 spaces. |
|
|
Term
| What is the maximum distance an accessible parking space can be located from a building entrance? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Site services and utilities include which elements? |
|
Definition
water
gas
electricity
communication systems
wastewater systems
drainage systems
flood control |
|
|
Term
| Define "infill development". |
|
Definition
| Development that fills in between existing buildings. |
|
|
Term
| What are the advantages of infill development? |
|
Definition
1. Possible lower first cost from reusing existing infrastructure
2. Less environmental impact
3. Creating higher density development which more efficiently uses infrastructure and supports public amenities |
|
|
Term
| Where is the most logical and efficient location to run services and utilities to buildings? |
|
Definition
| Under public street right-of-ways |
|
|
Term
| Whose responsibility is it to plan for underground utility installations n a street right-of-way? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are the general principles for locating underground utilities? |
|
Definition
1. Wastewater lines have first priority because of their need to follow gravity.
2. Trunk (main) lines should not be located under major traffic arteries.
3. Trunk lines for several utilities should not be located under the same street.
4. Center of the street should be reserved with wastewater lines.
5. All utility installations needed for the next 5 years should be installed before a street is paved. |
|
|
Term
| What is the average water demand per capita per day? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What are the principal features of a water supply system? |
|
Definition
1. Sources - lakes, rivers, streams, wells
2. Transmission mains - aqueducts, canals, pipelines
3. Water treatment plants
4. Distribution systems - including reservoirs and pumping stations
5. Metered connections |
|
|
Term
| What elements determine the type of water supply distribution network in an urban area? |
|
Definition
1. street plan
2. urban density
3. topo |
|
|
Term
| What are the two patterns of water supply systems? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What material can conduit and piping be made of in water distribution systems? |
|
Definition
Cast iron
Wrought iron
Steel
Plastic
For larger sizes, reinforced concrete |
|
|
Term
| What is the determining factor for water main sizes? |
|
Definition
| Fire protection requirements |
|
|
Term
| What are the typical diameters of water mains? |
|
Definition
6" in typical residential areas
8" in high density districts |
|
|
Term
| How far apart are fire hydrants usually spaced? |
|
Definition
150' in high density districts
600' in suburban areas |
|
|
Term
| What elements must be considered in wastewater system design? |
|
Definition
Population projection
Industrial growth
Topo
Soil conditions
Rainfall
Water quality standards
Water reclamation |
|
|
Term
| Wastewater lines are maintained at a constant slope. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the range of acceptable velocity for wastewater flow? |
|
Definition
| 2.5 ft./sec. to 10 ft./sec. |
|
|
Term
| What slope is required to transport solid waste? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Where waste is pumped over extensive horizontal distances through conduit. |
|
|
Term
| Wastewater mains are typically the lowest structure below street level. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What materials can be used for wastewater conduit? |
|
Definition
vitrified clay
cast iron
plastic
lightweight fiberglass-reinforced mortar plastic |
|
|
Term
| What are the maximum dimensions of wastewater conduit? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| How is electricity generated? |
|
Definition
Turbines powered by steam produced by burning coal, oil, or gas.
Sometimes by water power.
Sometimes by nuclear reactors producing heat to turn water into steam. |
|
|
Term
| What does CATV stand for? |
|
Definition
| Cable Antenna Television, or cable TV |
|
|
Term
| What does a CATV system consist of? |
|
Definition
| A central station where signals are received on a community antenna and transmitted over a network of coaxial cable. |
|
|
Term
| Gas distribution is much like water distribution including branching and looped patterns. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What materials can be used for gas conduit? |
|
Definition
Welded steel (primary)
Cast iron pipes (older systems) |
|
|
Term
| How can you mitigate corrosion of underground steel conduits? |
|
Definition
Asphalt
Coal
Tar
Extruded and taped plastic |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| The flow of water on ground surfaces or drainage channels produced by rainfall or melting snow. |
|
|
Term
| What elements does a storm drainage system include? |
|
Definition
Drainage surface
Open gutters and ditches
Underground pipes |
|
|
Term
| What are storm drainage pipes usually made of? |
|
Definition
Vitrified clay
If larger than 42" in diameter, concrete |
|
|
Term
| How far may surface water travel before being collected in a storm sewer? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Generally, how far apart are storm sewer manholes placed? |
|
Definition
500 feet
Or at the end of lines and each change in direction of the sewer line. |
|
|
Term
| What does the placement of a storm sewer manhole indicate? |
|
Definition
| The junction of a short branch sewer line to the main line. |
|
|
Term
| What is the minimum slope of a storm drainage line? |
|
Definition
0.3% for about 2 ft./sec.
Anything greater than 10 ft./sec. should be avoided. |
|
|
Term
| What criteria are storm drainage pipes sized for? |
|
Definition
Rainfall
Runoff
Drainage
Flow velocity
Pipe properties |
|
|
Term
| What 3 building elements do the site's land forms and ground slopes affect? |
|
Definition
| Building's foundation, drainage, and microclimate. |
|
|
Term
| What site elements does vegetation affect? |
|
Definition
The site's microclimate
views
solar radiation
sound travel |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
Local variation in climate including the effects of
topo
structures
exposure
ground cover
elevation
water bodies |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
The range of temperature, humidity, air speed, and air quality where people are comfortable.
Temp: 65 to 75 degrees
Humidity: 30% to 60% |
|
|
Term
| What is the ideal orientation of a building in the Northern Hemisphere? |
|
Definition
Slightly east of south.
South side of a building receives more solar radiation in winter and less in summer. |
|
|
Term
| Heat transmission through walls is more important in northerly latitudes. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Heat transmission through roofs is more important in southerly latitudes. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Deeper overhangs are required in which latitudes? |
|
Definition
| More northern latitudes require deeper overhangs since the sun is lower year-round. |
|
|
Term
| How much cost can properly designed sun shading devices save a project? |
|
Definition
| 15% or more on air conditioning installation and operation. |
|
|
Term
| What are the primary advantages of trees to a building? |
|
Definition
Reduce noise
Block summer sun, allow winter sun
Block winter wind, allow cooling summer breezes
Filter air
Reduce glare
Provide privacy
Aesthetic asset |
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Term
| What is the basic wind speed of most areas in the US? |
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Definition
| 70 to 80 mph with a pressure of 13 to 17 psf at a height of 30' |
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Term
| What part of the US has typically higher wind speeds? |
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Definition
| Gulf coast from Texas to Florida and the Atlantic coast. |
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Term
| Wind loads increase with height. |
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Definition
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Term
| What is wind pressure measured in? |
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Definition
| pounds per square foot (psf) |
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Term
| Local topo and structures modify a site's wind pattern. |
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Definition
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Term
| What is the best site element to use for blocking wind? |
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Definition
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Term
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Definition
| When wind hits a tall building, some wind goes above the building but most pushes down, creating a high-velocity vortex near the ground. |
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Term
| How much more heat loss does glass allow versus an insulated wall? |
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Definition
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Term
| What is the definition of "day-lighting" in sustainable design? |
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Definition
| A technique combining natural sunlight with dimmed overhead lighting to reduce energy costs and indoor lighting heat loads. |
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Term
|
Definition
The measure of heat transfer through a material.
The number of BTU per hour that pass through 1 sf of wall or roof when the difference between inside and outside is near constant with a steady rate of heat flow. |
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Term
| What are the typical ranges for U-values? |
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Definition
0.064 (insulated brick with plaster wall) to over 1.0 for a single pane of regular glass.
The lower the U-value, the slower the heat loss.
The higher the U-value, the more rapid heat loss or gain. |
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Term
| Define "thermal inertia". |
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Definition
| The ability of a material to store heat. |
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Term
| "Diurnal" means "daily". i.e. high diurnal (or daily) temperature variation |
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Definition
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Term
| What are the primary ways climate can cause deterioration of building materials? |
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Definition
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Term
| What are some of the sustainable techniques for solar heating and cooling? |
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Definition
Solar hot water heating
PV paneling for electrical production
Fuel cells for electrical production
Ice storage systems for "off peak" cooling |
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Term
| The cost of heating is related to the difference between the outdoor winter design temperature and the indoor design temperature. |
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Definition
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Term
| What constitutes a "design temperature" in mechanical heating? |
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Definition
| A working average of winter temperatures in a particular area, not the lowest ever recorded temperature. |
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Term
| The sound of falling water may be used to mask urban noise. |
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Definition
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Term
| What are the advantages to dams? |
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Definition
Flood control
Generation of hydro-electric power
Creation of an up-stream lake |
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Term
| What materials are used in surface treatment of water banks to prevent erosion? |
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Definition
Stone
Reinforced concrete
Treated lumber
Steel
While allowing sufficient freeboard for highest expected water and wave levels. |
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Term
|
Definition
| Distance from normal water line in a body of water to the top of the adjacent surface. |
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Term
|
Definition
Any body of water flowing in a channel.
i.e. a river or a brook
Always part of the natural drainage system and should not be disturbed. |
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Term
| What considerations should be made when locating a river crossing? |
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Definition
1. Where the stream is narrowest to minimize length of span
2. Where the banks are stable
3. Where the banks are higher than the highest expected flood line. |
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Term
| If bridge structural members are required in the middle of a water body, orient the piers with the long face in the direction of water flow to minimize disruption. |
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Definition
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Term
| What are the 4 ways water behaves after the precipitation phase in the water cycle? |
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Definition
1. Runoff: a small amount flows off the land into streams and oceans
2. Infiltration: even smaller amount soaks into the ground
3. Evaporation: most precipitation evaporates directly into the air
4. Transpiration: most precipitation is transpired back into the atmosphere through plants |
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Term
| Why does site development increase stormwater runoff? |
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Definition
Development of a site usually entails removing some vegetation - decreasing transpiration.
Pervious land is replaced by impervious buildings, streets, and parking areas - decreasing infiltration. |
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Term
| What is a detention pond? |
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Definition
An on-site area to store rainwater and stormwater runoff for it to either evaporate, infiltrate, or be released slowly into the storm drainage system.
The point is to equal the same amount of stormwater runoff post-development as the pre-development levels. |
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Term
|
Definition
| The relatively flat land within which a stream flows. |
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Term
| What does the term "10-year flood" mean? |
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Definition
A flood of a magnitude such that it is likely to occur only once every 10 years.
The likelihood of a 10-year flood to occur in any given year is 10%. |
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Term
| What are the 2 underground water zones? |
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Definition
1. Zone of aeration
2. Zone of saturation |
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Term
| What is the "ground water table"? |
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Definition
| The irregular surface that forms the boundary between the zone of aeration and the zone of saturation. |
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Term
| If the ground water table at your site is high, (6' or less below the ground surface): |
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Definition
1. construction excavation must be braced and kept dry by pumps
2. basements must be waterproofed
3. the bearing capacity of the foundation soil is often reduced |
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Term
|
Definition
An underground permeable material through which water flows.
Good aquifers:
sand
gravel
sandstone
some limestone
Bad aquifers:
clay
shale
most metamorphic and igneous rocks |
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Term
| Trees and other planting help control erosion, destructive runoff, flooding, they absorb sound, and provide a habitat for birds. |
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Definition
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Term
| The stability of a building depends on the bearing capacity of the soil upon which it sits. |
|
Definition
|
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Term
|
Definition
1. The chemical decomposition of rock
2. Water, air and temperature action on rock
3. The decay of vegetable and animal matter |
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Term
| What are the 9 types of soil? |
|
Definition
1. Bedrock- solid material that forms the crust of the earth.
2. Boulders- rock detached from the bedrock.
3. Decomposed rock- disintegrated rock masses that were originally solid.
4. Hardpan- a consolidated mix of gravel, clay, and sand.
5. Gravel- granular rock particles ranging from 1/4" to 3-1/2". Course-grained soil.
6. Sand- loose granular particles ranging from 0.002" to 1/4". Course-grained soil.
7. Silt- fine-grained sedimentary material deposited from running water. 0.002" or less in particle size.
8. Clay- fine-grained, firm cohesive material formed from decomposed, hydrated rock. Least stable soil for buildings.
9. Quicksand- mixture of sand and moving water. Completely unsuitable for construction. |
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Term
| What are the 2 relatively uncomplicated soil exploration methods? |
|
Definition
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Term
| What are the 4 soil exploration methods that require boring into the earth? |
|
Definition
Auger borings
Wash borings
Core borings
Dry sample borings |
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Term
What is a test pit?
Soil exploration method |
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Definition
Simple excavation that permits direct visual inspection of the actual soil conditions.
Costly. |
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Term
What is a soil load test?
Soil exploration method |
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Definition
| A platform is erected on the site and incremental loads are applied. Each load increment is maintained until the settlement becomes negligible for a period of several hours. |
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Term
What are auger borings?
Soil exploration method |
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Definition
Designed to bring up soil samples by fastening a 2" to 2-1/2" auger to a long pipe or rod.
Usually does not exceed 50'. |
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Term
What are wash borings?
Soil exploration method |
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Definition
| a 2" to 4" diameter pipe is driven into the soil and contains a smaller jet pipe through which water is forced. The results are mixed with water and aren't as dependable as samples. |
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Term
What are core borings?
Soil exploration method |
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Definition
More costly, most reliable.
Can penetrate through all materials to great depths.
Made with a diamond drill.
Bring up a complete core of every material through which they pass. |
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Term
What are dry sample borings?
Soil exploration method |
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Definition
Utilize a drive pipe with a split sampling pipe at the tip instead of a drill.
Samples taken every 5".
Sampling pipe driven down 5" then lifts out and the contents stored for lab testing. |
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Term
| What are the 7 soil properties that soil exploration methods and testing check for? |
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Definition
1. Specific gravity
2. Grain size
3. Grain shape
4. Liquid and plastic limits
5. Water content
6. Void ratio
7. Unconfined compression |
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Term
| What are some of the possible soil problems? |
|
Definition
Inadequate bearing capacity
Subsurface water
Shrinkage
Slippage
Seismic forces |
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Term
| What is differential settlement? |
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Definition
Uneven settlement of the soil underneath the foundation of a building.
Can cause cracks or failures of the structure. |
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Term
|
Definition
| Freezing and thawing of soil makes the ground heave. |
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Term
|
Definition
| The depth below which the soil does not freeze. |
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Term
|
Definition
| The level below which all soil is saturated with ground water. |
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Term
What is a drain tile system?
Subsurface water management |
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Definition
Drainage tiles are pipes with open joints used to direct water away from a building's foundation.
Min. diameter of 6" and laid in gravel at least 6" below the lowest floor slab. |
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|
Term
What is a waterstop?
Subsurface water management |
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Definition
| An element of a concrete structure, intended to prevent the passages of fluids (such as water) when embedded in and running continuously through concrete joints. |
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Term
| Bearing capacity of soil can be easily increased by deepening or increasing the bearing area of the footing. |
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Definition
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|
Term
Soil density is a rough measure of its strength.
Soil improvement often involves a reduction in void volume. |
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Definition
|
|
Term
| Why should cut and fill be balanced? |
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Definition
| To avoid the cost of importing or exporting soil. |
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Term
| What is surface water management? |
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Definition
| Design of on-site drainage to not block or increase the flow of water to existing drainage systems. |
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Term
| What elements must be considered in the design of a surface drainage system? |
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Definition
Based on amount of runoff to be carried which is determined by:
1. the intensity and duration of a storm
2. size of area to be drained
3. soil porosity
4. slope
5. vegetation cover |
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Term
| What are the 3 types of drainage systems? |
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Definition
1. Surface "sheet flow" system
2. Surface flow into gutters
3. Flow in underground pipes |
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Term
| What is the minimum slope for land to be sloped away from a building? |
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Definition
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|
Term
| Grass slopes should not exceed 25% grade. |
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Definition
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Term
| Drainage ditched should be sloped between 2% and 10%. |
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Definition
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|
Term
| Underground stormwater drainage conduits have a minimum slope of what percentage? |
|
Definition
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|
Term
Surface slopes:
Level- <4%
Easy grades- 4%-10%
Steep grades- >10% |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Typically wooden structures, offset from a building limit line, used to hold string or wire marking the building limit line. |
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Term
| What does earthwork entail? |
|
Definition
All grading work -
excavation, rough grading, finish grading. |
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Term
|
Definition
| Removal of existing soil to permit construction of the foundation and substructure. |
|
|
Term
|
Definition
| Earth that is replaced around a foundation or retaining wall after the concrete forms have been removed. |
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|
Term
| Define a building's "foundation". |
|
Definition
| The part of its structure that transmits the building's loads to the soil. |
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Term
| What are the 6 types of shallow footing foundation systems? |
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Definition
1. Column footing
2. Wall footing
3. Combined footing
4. Cantilevered footing
5. Mat footing or raft foundation
6. Boat footing |
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Term
| What is a pile foundation? |
|
Definition
A pile transfers building load to deeper, firmer soil if the upper soil has insufficient bearing capacity.
Transfers the load by either skin friction or end bearing. |
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Term
| What is the difference between a drilled pile and a drilled caisson? |
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Definition
Both are types of deep foundations but
Drilled pile transmits load to the soil by skin friction.
Drilled caisson transmits load to the soil by end bearing. |
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Term
| What is the difference between a caisson and a cofferdam? |
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Definition
Both are foundation construction methods dealing with water.
A caisson is a box-like structure used where very wet or soft soil is present.
A cofferdam is used when constructing bridge piers in water. |
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Term
| Name the 4 elements of foundation shoring. |
|
Definition
1. Sheeting
2. Slurry wall
3. Bracing with the use of rakers
4. Underpinning (existing foundations) |
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|
Term
| What are the 3 common asphalt paving types? |
|
Definition
All derive from asphaltic petroleum.
1. Asphaltic concrete
2. Cold laid asphalt
3. Asphalt macadam |
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Term
| What are the most common grade changing devices for modifying finish grade of a site? |
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Definition
| Concrete or masonry retaining walls. |
|
|
Term
| An architect must balance initial cost with maintenance cost. |
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Definition
|
|
Term
| What does "site work" encompass? |
|
Definition
1. Demo of site features to make room for new development
2. Earthwork- cut & fill, compaction, etc.
3. Foundations
4. Utilities
5. Paving
6. Landscaping
7. Lighting
8. Site furniture |
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Term
| What are things that affect site construction costs? |
|
Definition
1. Cost of labor and materials
2. Efficiency of contractor
3. Technology utilized to accomplish the work
4. Characteristics of the site
5. The design of site development |
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|
Term
| What is "cumulative zoning"? |
|
Definition
Multi-use districts.
i.e. Residential uses in Commercial districts; Commercial uses in Industrial districts, etc. |
|
|
Term
| Zoning was created between 1916-1920. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What elements were introduced in the Model Land Development Code? |
|
Definition
Aesthetics
Environmental protection
Preservation of historical sites |
|
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Term
| What do zoning ordinances dictate? |
|
Definition
Setbacks from property lines
Coverage of lot area
Floor area ratio (FAR)
Height and size of buildings
Number of dwellings per acre (density)
Off-street parking requirements |
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|
Term
| What is a "zoning envelope"? |
|
Definition
| The volume within which a building can be placed. |
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|
Term
| What are the purposes of zoning setbacks? |
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Definition
1. Provide building interiors with natural light and ventilation
2. Inhibit the spread of fire from one building to the next
3. Minimize conflicts with street traffic and off-street activities |
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Term
| In which zoning district are height limitations more common? |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| Define "floor area ratio (FAR)". |
|
Definition
The ratio of the floor area of a building to the total area of the site.
Purpose is to restrict the bulk of a building to encourage openness, light, air, etc. |
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|
Term
| FAR can be based on net usable space or total gross area of the building - depending on the specific ordinance. |
|
Definition
|
|
Term
| What is the purpose of flexible zoning? |
|
Definition
To overcome the rigidity of traditional zoning and to make the regulations relevant to changing patterns of development.
1. Conditional use
2. Planned Unit Development (cluster)
3. Floating Zone
4. Incentive (bonus) Zoning
5. Contract Zoning |
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Term
| What is a zoning variance? |
|
Definition
Exceptions to or deviations from the precise terms of zoning ordinances.
Usually granted by local authority if the literal application of an ordinance would cause undue hardship on the development. |
|
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Term
|
Definition
An agreement between a developer and a local government to go over and above certain zoning ordinances in exchange for other benefits, such as approval of conditional zoning.
OR
The ability for the local government to require funding for other projects in exchange for granting permission for non-conforming uses. |
|
|
Term
| What is bonus or incentive zoning? |
|
Definition
| Modified ordinances to reward builders for benefitting communities with their development. |
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