Zoning Ordinance

CHAPTER 4: - SUPPLEMENTARY PROVISIONS FOR ALL DISTRICTS

4.01. ACCESS CONTROL.

In order to expedite the movement of traffic, to promote the safety of the motorist and pedestrian, and to minimize traffic congestion and conflict, it is necessary to reduce the points of vehicular contact. Therefore, to effectively control vehicular access onto the streets of Athens, it is necessary to classify such streets as follows: arterial street; collector street; and minor street. The classification of each street shall be as shown on the Revised Major Route Plan of Athens, Tennessee dated October 1978 which is kept in the Municipal Building. (The provisions in this section for arterial streets shall apply to both major and minor arterials on the Major Route Plan; collector street provisions apply to the primary collectors on the Major Route Plan; and minor street provisions apply to local streets on the Major Route Plan.)

A. Development Requiring Access Control Plan:

Commercial and Industrial Establishments and Apartment complexes of three (3) or more dwelling units must file an access control plan meeting all requirements of this Section and must have such plan approved by the Athens Municipal-Regional Planning Commission prior to obtaining a building permit. This access control plan is often part of a "Site Plan" as specified in Section 4.17 of this ordinance. However, in the event that such a site plan is not required, an access control plan must still be submitted and approved. Although access control plans are not required for single-family homes and duplexes, the provisions of Section 4.01.D1, 2, and 3 shall be adhered to for access to these land uses.

B. General Access Regulations Applying to All Classifications of Streets:

1. Maximum Width of All Access Points:

The maximum width of all access points shall be thirty (30) feet measured at the property line except when the development requiring access generates high overall or high peak traffic volumes, the Athens Municipal -Regional Planning Commission (AMRPC) may approve a wider channeled access point to allow various turning movements for greater traffic control and safety.

2. Temporary Access Ways:

Temporary access ways may be granted by the Planning Commission at locations other than those specified for permanent access where it is expedient for the purpose of staged development. Temporary access ways shall be closed when permanent access to the property is completed.

3. Off-Street Parking Lanes Entirely Independent of Certain Public Streets:

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