Public Hearing and Consideration of Proposed Changes to UDO-CC32 Regulations for Mechanically Stabilized Slopes and Retaining Walls (General Government Committee Recommends Approval)

This ordinance amendment (UDO-CC32) proposes to remove Section 8.4.6.B from the Unified Development Ordinances (UDO), which currently governs "Graded Slopes, Mechanically Stabilized Slopes and Fills." The primary change is to move the technical standards for these features from the UDO to the Infrastructure Development Standards (IDS), which already contain specifications for streets, sidewalks, and utilities. This shift is intended to streamline the review process by allowing an interdepartmental team of public works staff with engineering expertise to review these elements holistically with other grading and stormwater features.

Currently, the UDO limits most retaining walls to ten feet in height, with alternative compliance processes for taller walls. Peer communities typically do not include such height limits in their development ordinances, instead relying on licensed engineers to certify designs. This amendment aims to provide greater design flexibility for engineers to address unique project conditions.

The Planning Board unanimously recommended approval, finding the amendment consistent with the comprehensive plan to improve local land use regulations. The General Government Committee also unanimously recommended approval. The ordinance is effective upon adoption and is anticipated to have no material fiscal impact.