SRC Chapter 400
SRC 400: Use Classifications
Purpose of This Chapter
The Use Classifications chapter is an entirely new chapter that establishes a framework for the classification of land uses within the UDC to provide the basis for the assignment of land uses to individual zoning districts and overlay zones.
The Use Classifications chapter represents a new approach to the classification of uses within the City that replaces the code’s existing, outdated use classification approach based upon the 1987 Standard Industrial Classification System (SIC).
Under the proposed approach, land uses are described by a set of descriptive characteristics that define the “use”. Specific proposed activities that meet the characteristics of the use are classified under that use and are regulated as such. Each use also includes common examples of activities that would fall within specific uses. When needed, exceptions are also provided under uses in order redirect the code user to the appropriate use when an activity possess some of the characteristics of one use, but more appropriately falls within another use.
The proposed approach is similar to that used by other jurisdictions in Oregon, as well as the approach utilized in the Oregon Model Code, and will represent an important improvement to the code by being more flexible, adaptable, and understandable to the public.
The Use Classifications chapter works in conjunction with the City’s zoning districts and overlay zones, and any other UDC chapters that establish standards based on specific types of uses (e.g. Special Requirements – SRC 700; Off-Street Parking & Loading – SRC 835; and Landscaping and Screening – SRC 840).
Proposed Revisions – Highlights (*)
1. 1987 Standard Industrial Classification System (SIC) no longer basis for classification of uses.
2. “Special” uses proposed to be renamed to “limited” uses.
3. Specific conditional use no longer an application type, but will instead be a conditional use subject to special standards.
4. Chapter idnetified “uses” and specific “activities” that fall within uses.