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Clay Cottages PUD
Planned Unit Development (PUD) / Rezone
Docket Number PZ-2024-0173 PUD
PUD REZONE
CITY OF CARMEL, INDIANA
January 21, 2025
City of Carmel Plan Commission
Applicant: Taylor Morrison of Indiana, LLC
Attorneys: Nelson & Frankenberger, LLC
Jim Shinaver, Attorney
Jon C. Dobosiewicz, Land Use Professional
317-844-0106
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. Explanation of Request
2. Background Information on Taylor Morrison
3. Site Location Map
4. Conceptual Site Plan and Area Map
5. Comparison of Original Concept Plan to Revised Concept Plan
Lot Size Comparison
6. Common Area Open Space Exhibit
Potential Open Space Amenity Exhibits
Buffer Yard Plan
7. Summary of Home Size and Product Series Revisions to Proposal
8. Character Imagery of the Main Level Primary Suites Homes
9. Character Imagery of the Edge Series Homes
Comparison Photos to VOWC Sample Homes
10. Clay Cottages PUD Ordinance
TAB 1
Clay Cottages PUD - Project Description
Taylor Morrison Homes of Indiana, LLC (“Taylor Morrison”) has filed a rezone application for
three (3) parcels of real estate that consist of approximately 37 acres, which parcels are located at the
southeast corner of Towne Road and 126th Street (the “Real Estate”), in order to develop a for-sale,
master-planned community to be known as “Clay Cottages” consisting of three (3) different home
product offerings. Behind Tab 2 is general background information regarding Taylor Morrison Homes
and behind Tab 3 is a Site Location Map identifying the location of the Real Estate.
The Real Estate is located east of the Laurel Lakes community and is surrounded by the Village
of WestClay community to the north, east and south. The Real Estate is currently zoned S-1 Residential,
and the request seeks to rezone the Real Estate to the “Clay Cottages Planned Unit Development
Ordinance” (the “Clay Cottages PUD”).
Since the filing of this request, project modifications have occurred related to the Concept Plan
and home products. Behind Tab 4 is the revised Concept Plan and Area Map and as shown on this plan,
access to Clay Cottages will be from three (3) locations along Towne Road: (i) at the round-a-bout at
126th Street and Towne Road; (ii) a centrally located main entrance across from the Laurel Lakes
community; and, (ii) along the southern portion of the Real Estate providing access to six (6) planned
estate lots.
Revisions to the Concept Plan include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. 37 fewer homesites are proposed on the revised Concept Plan. The original plan consisted of
142 lots. The revised Concept Plan now consists of 105 lots which include 99 lots for the
construction of home designs included in the submittal and 6 custom homes lots. The
reduction in the number of proposed homes has lowered the density to 2.83 homes per acre,
whereas the original plan had a density of 4.02 homes per acre.
2. Behind Tab 5 is a comparison of changes from the original Concept Plan to the revised
Concept Plan, including a lot size comparison description. In summary, there are fewer lots
proposed along the north and east perimeter of the Real Estate next to portions of the Village
of West Clay and the lot sizes along these perimeters have been increased.
3. Behind Tab 6 is a description of the redesigned Common Areas and Open Space. In
summary, a larger central park area was created, the park around the southern pond was
enhanced and enlarged, and three (3) pocket parks have been created internal to the
community along with additional green space. In total the revised Concept Plan now
includes 6.5 acres of common open space.
4. Also included behind Tab 6 are examples of potential Open Space amenities. The potential
Open Space amenities include: public gathering spaces; fire pits; walking paths, dog park;
picnic shelter; and, recreation areas (pickle ball courts). Further, Taylor Morrison participates
in certain National Wildlife Federation programs related to new residential community
construction and for the Clay Cottages, Taylor Morrison anticipates incorporating native
plantings, monarch butterfly gardens, and nature themed recreation area(s).
5. Finally, also included behind Tab 6 is the Buffer Yard Plan which depicts lot size minimums
of 60’ wide by 150’ deep along the northern and eastern perimeter of the Real Estate adjacent
to homes in the Village of West Clay. By increasing these lot depths, a rear buffer yard area
of approximately 40’ has been created which will allow for preservation of existing trees
along these perimeters along with additional tree plantings by Taylor Morrison. Further, by
increasing these lot depths, there are now fewer homes along the shared perimeter adjacent to
Village of West Clay.
Revisions to the Proposed Home Products include, but are not limited to, the following:
1. Behind Tab 7 is a comparison pertaining to the original home types proposed for Clay
Cottages to the new home product being proposed. The Cornerstone and Encore series of
homes from the original proposal have been removed. All proposed homes are now detached
single-family dwellings. The plan now includes newly curated plans for homes to be located
in Area B (consisting of 43 home sites) which shall include a Main Floor Living Series of
homes including primary bedrooms on the 1st floor and either recessed garages or courtyard
garages.
2. The Main Floor Living Series of homes includes new floor plans that have been designed
with all primary bedrooms on the main floor and are to be age-targeted. These homes consist
mostly of ranch homes, with some alternate designs that provide an additional upstairs
bedroom. These homes have a wider floor plan design which results in larger home square
footages and higher price points, anticipated to be between $700,000 to $1,000,000.
3. Behind Tab 8 is Character Imagery for Main Floor Living Series of homes.
4. The Edge Series of homes have also been modified from the original proposal. These homes
will be located internal to the community (none of these homes will be adjacent to any of the
homes in the Village of West Clary). The Edge Series homes will be located in Area C
(consisting of 56 home sites) and based on the new design for these homes, home prices are
anticipated to be between $550,000 to $700,000. These homes also include a primary
bedroom suite on the main floor, larger home square footages with enhanced features
including increased masonry and upgraded interior finishes at custom home levels.
5. Behind Tab 9 is Character Imagery for the Edge Series, as well as photo examples comparing
the proposed Edge Series homes to some of the home styles in the Village of West Clay.
Again, however, none of the Edge Series homes will be adjacent to any of the homes in the
Village of West Clay.
Clay Cottages is a master-planned, for-sale community offering first floor primary bedroom
suites for all homes. The revised Concept Plan for Clay Cottages includes a pedestrian friendly
streetscape with front porches and entryway architecture with no garages facing perimeter public streets
or facing toward the Village of West Clay community to the north, east and south. Internal alleys are
utilized to enhance the internal streetscape appearance within the community.
Behind Tab 10 is the Clay Cottages PUD. Within the PUD are exhibits depicting the
architectural quality and character of the proposed home architecture, which homes have been designed
to be compatible with the other existing homes in communities that surround the Real Estate. In this
regard, included behind Exhibit F of the Clay Cottages PUD are the specific architectural standards and
requirements for the Clay Cottages homes, which standards were modeled after the “Village of West
Clay Residential Building Guidelines”.
Comprehensive Plan Statement
The subject Real Estate and surrounding area is designated, per the Carmel Comprehensive Plan
2022 Development Patterns Map, as “West Neighborhoods” and the Real Estate is an “in-fill” site which
presents a unique opportunity for development of a for-sale, master planned community consisting of a
variety of home product offerings, including some homes on smaller lots with less maintenance
requirements that should expand available housing options and opportunities in Carmel.
The Clay Cottages PUD provides for: (i) expanded diversity of for-sale housing products, all
home offerings now include a primary first floor bedroom, with enhanced architectural design and detail
as is required by the architectural provisions of the proposed PUD; (ii) an appropriate lot size and
landscaping transition next to the communities that surround the Real Estate; (iii) limiting the height of
homes to two-stories, including many ranch homes and positioning the fronts of dwellings to create an
attractive streetscape; and, (iv) internal and external pedestrian connectivity along passive open green
space and amenities.
2024 Carmel Housing Task Force Statement
The Carmel Mayor’s Housing Task Force Findings and Recommendations Report, dated
September 10, 2024, identified certain recommendations and objectives for new housing inventory for
the City of Carmel. In this regard, the Clay Cottages proposal meets many of the recommendations and
objectives by: (i) providing availability of new housing opportunities, with all homes having a primary
bedroom on the first floor, to the current empty-nester Carmel population who are seeking to downsize
out of their larger homes, but still want to reside in Carmel as they age; (ii) encouraging empty-nester
Carmel residents who want to downsize and move out of their larger existing homes, thus making those
larger existing homes accessible to younger “legacy” residents with growing families to move into; (iii)
facilitating and increasing the supply of “missing-middle” smaller housing opportunities that are desired
by seniors (because all of the homes have a first floor primary bedroom) who are looking to downsize,
in the form of well-designed, single-family detached homes some of which are on smaller lots with less
maintenance responsibilities, but with the desired community amenities, including open spaces,
gathering areas, a pedestrian-friendly neighborhood with trails and paths - the types of community
amenities that allow residents to interact and from meaningful neighborhood bonds; and, (iv) proposing
an “in-fill” development that should protect the existing and surrounding residential communities in the
form the Clay Cottages PUD that contains specific architectural guidelines and standards, modeled after
the “Village of West Clay Residential Building Guidelines”, so that the new homes in Clay Cottages
will be compatible in architectural design and character to the surrounding homes in the area – which
also addresses objectives in the Comprehensive Plan related to the protection of existing neighborhoods.
We look forward to presenting the Clay Cottages proposal to the Plan Commission on January
21, 2025.
Respectfully submitted,
TAB 2
Taylor Morrison
•#12 on Forbes Most Trusted
Companies in America
•9 Years in row voted America’s
Most Trusted National Home
Builder by Lifestory Research
•A+ Better Business
Bureau Rating
2
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Pyatt Builders & Taylor Morrison
•Formerly Pyatt Builders - private local builder that
operated starting in 2009
•Acquisition by Taylor Morrison occurred in April 2024
•Same local leadership and operating teams that ran
Pyatt Builders for 15 years
•Headquarters located in Carmel
•Always an A+ Better Business Bureau Rating
TAB 3
SITE LOCATION MAP
SITE
126th Street
NORTH
To
w
n
e
R
o
a
d
TAB 4
Concept Plan
Area Map
Area B
Area C
Area A
TAB 5
5
Density & Concept Plan
Original Design: 135 Homesites + 7 Custom Revised Design: 99 Lots + 6 Custom
37 Fewer Homesites Proposed
Larger Lots
Reduced Density from 4.02/acre to 2.83/acre
6
Lot Size Comparison
Village of West Clay
•North – Stanhope Drive
•12 homes in Village of West Clay along
shared property line
•Smallest - 45’ x 125’ (0.12 acre/lot)
•East – Bandford and Horseman
•16 homes in Village of West Clay along
shared property line
•Smallest – 50’ x 110’ (0.13 acre/lot)
•Interior Lots – North but not perimeter
•Smallest – 30’ x 100’ (0.07 acre/lot)
•Sections at 35’ x 110’ (0.09 acre/lot)
Proposed Clay Cottages
•North Perimeter Lots
•10 total lots in Clay Cottage proposal along
shared property line
•60’ x 150’ (0.20 acre/lot)
•East Perimeter Lots
•12 total lots in Clay Cottages proposal along
shared property line
•60’ x 150’ (0.20 acre/lot)
•Interior Lots
•60’ x 120’ (0.17 acre/lot)
•40’ x 110’ (0.10 acre/lot)
TAB 6
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Common Area Open Spaces
REVISED DESIGN
•Large center park
•Enhanced and enlarged park around pond
•Three pocket parks carefully placed around
the community to create a harmonious feel
to the surrounding areas
•Added green space around walking trail on
west side of community
•Over 6.5 acres of common open space
Potential Open Space Amenity Concepts
8 **Proposed pickleball court pending neighbors’ feedback
9
Buffer Yard
REVISED DESIGN
•Minimum 60’ wide by 150’ deep lots along the
Northern and Eastern property lines adjacent to
the Village of West Clay
•Increased lot depths will create a natural buffer
with rear yard depths of 40’
•Increase in lot width now has fewer lots along the
shared property lines than the Village of West
Clay
•Large majority of the existing trees in this area will
remain. Builder/developer will enhance the area
with additional trees
TAB 7
10
Home Size and Product Series Changes
•Removed Cornerstone Series
•High Density Style with 1’ Side Yards
•Removed Encore Series
•Paired Home Styles
•Revised Edge Series
•Higher price point with new designs –
projected $550k - $700k
•Additional primary on the main floor design
•Less lots which increased lot costs
•Larger square footages
•Enhanced features
•Some with increased masonry
•Interior features at custom home levels
•All internal to the site and not adjacent to
VOWC
•Add Newly Curated Plans
•Brand-new Floor plans that have been
designed with all primary bedrooms on the
main level – age targeted
•Mostly ranch designs with lofts
•Some larger designs with alternate /
additional bedrooms upstairs
•Introduction of Taylor Morrison plans from
other markets
•Wider floor plan designs for larger square
footages and higher prices
•Projected price range of $700k to $1 million
•All recessed or courtyard garages
TAB 8
11
Newly Curated Series - Main Level Primary Suites
12
Newly Curated Series - Main Level Primary Suites
13
Newly Curated Series - Main Level Primary Suites
14
Newly Curated Series - Main Level Primary Suites
15
Newly Curated Series - Main Level Primary Suites
TAB 9
Edge Series
17
Harmonious Feel to Existing Village of West Clay
18
Harmonious Feel to Existing Village of West Clay
19
Harmonious Feel to Existing Village of West Clay
TAB 10
Sponsors: Councilor __________
CARMEL, INDIANA
CLAY COTTAGES
PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT DISTRICT
ORDINANCE Z-___-25
January 8, 2025
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Section 1. Applicability of Ordinance ........................................................................................... 4
Section 2. Definitions and Rules of Construction ....................................................................... 4
Section 3. Accessory Buildings and Uses .................................................................................... 6
Section 4. Development Standards ............................................................................................... 6
Section 5. Common Area Requirements .................................................................................10
Section 6. Landscaping Requirements .....................................................................................11
Section 7. Signage Requirements ............................................................................................16
Section 8. Additional Requirements and Standards ................................................................... 16
Section 9. Procedural Provisions ............................................................................................17
Section 10. Violations and Enforcement ..................................................................................18
Section 11. Exhibits ..................................................................................................................18
Exhibit A Legal Description
Exhibit B Concept Plan and Area Map
Exhibit C Architectural Character Imagery – Main Level Living Series Homes
Exhibit D Architectural Character Imagery – Edge Series Homes
Exhibit E Architectural Standards
Note: All of the above Exhibits (A-E) are attached to this Clay Cottages Ordinance, are incorporated by reference
into this Clay Cottages Ordinance and are part of this Clay Cottages Ordinance.
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Sponsors: Councilor ______
ORDINANCE Z-___-25
AN ORDINANCE OF THE COMMON COUNCIL OF THE
CITY OF CARMEL, INDIANA
ESTABLISHING THE CLAY COTTAGES PLANNED UNIT DEVELOPMENT
DISTRICT
Synopsis:
Ordinance Establishes the Clay Cottages Planned Unit Development District Ordinance (the
“Clay Cottages PUD”). The Ordinance rezones the real estate from S-1 Residential to a Planned
Unit Development district allowing the future development of a residential neighborhood laid out
in the style and character as depicted on the included Concept Plan which includes single-family
homes and paired-home dwellings.
WHEREAS, Articles 4.02 and 9.05 of the Carmel Unified Development Ordinance,
Ordinance Z-625-17, as amended (the “UDO”), provides for the establishment of a Planned Unit
Development District in accordance with the requirements of I.C. § 36-7-4-1500 et seq. (the “PUD
Statute”); and
WHEREAS, Taylor Morrison of Indiana, LLC (“Taylor Morrison”), submitted an
application to the Carmel Plan Commission (the “Plan Commission”) to adopt a PUD District
Ordinance for certain real estate in the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana, as legally
described in Exhibit A attached hereto (the “Real Estate”); and
WHEREAS, Taylor Morrison’s application is consistent with the provisions of the UDO
and PUD Statute; and
WHEREAS, after proper notice, and pursuant to the provisions of the PUD Statute and
UDO, the Plan Commission conducted a public hearing on _____ __, 2025 concerning Taylor
Morrison’s application for a PUD District Ordinance, which application was docketed as PZ-2024-
000__ (PUD), and
WHEREAS, the Plan Commission, at its hearing on _____ __, 2025, has given a
__________ Recommendation to this Clay Cottages PUD (the “Clay Cottages Ordinance”), which
establishes the Clay Cottages Planned Unit Development District (the “Clay Cottages District”).
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT ORDAINED by the Common Council of the City of
Carmel, Indiana (the “Council”), that: (i) pursuant to IC §36-7-4-1500 et seq., the Council adopts
this Clay Cottages Ordinance, as an amendment to the Zone Map; (ii) all prior ordinances or parts
thereof inconsistent with any provision of this Clay Cottages Ordinance and its exhibits are hereby
made inapplicable to the use and development of the Real Estate; (iii) all prior commitments and
restrictions applicable to the Real Estate shall be null and void and replaced and superseded by
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this Clay Cottages Ordinance; and, (iv) this Clay Cottages Ordinance shall be in full force and
effect from and after its passage and signing.
Section 1. Applicability of Ordinance.
Section 1.1 The Zone Map is hereby changed to designate the Real Estate as a Planned
Unit Development District to be known as the Clay Cottages District.
Section 1.2 Development in the Clay Cottages District shall be governed entirely by (i)
the provisions of this Clay Cottages Ordinance and its exhibits, and (ii) those provisions of
the UDO specifically referenced in this Clay Cottages Ordinance. Where this Clay
Cottages Ordinance is silent, the applicable standards of the UDO shall apply.
Section 1.3 The underlying zoning for the Clay Cottages District shall be the R3
Residential District (the “R3 District”) set forth in the UDO. Except as modified, revised,
supplemented or made inapplicable by this Clay Cottages Ordinance, the standards of the
UDO applicable to the R3 District shall apply to the Clay Cottages District.
Section 2. Definitions and Rules of Construction.
Section 2.1 General Rules of Construction. The following general rules of construction
and definitions shall apply to the Clay Cottages Ordinance:
A. The singular number includes the plural and the plural the singular, unless
the context clearly indicates the contrary.
B. Words used in the present tense include the past and future tenses, and the
future the present.
C. The word “shall” indicates a mandatory requirement. The word “may”
indicates a permissive requirement.
Section 2.2 Definitions. The definitions (i) of the capitalized terms set forth below in
this Section 2.2, as they appear throughout this Clay Cottages Ordinance, shall have the
meanings set forth below in this Section 2.2 and (ii) of all other capitalized terms included
in this Clay Cottages Ordinance and not defined below in this Section 2.2, shall be the same
as set forth in the UDO.
Accessory Use: A use subordinate to the main use, located on the real estate or in
the same Dwelling as the main use, and incidental to the main use.
“ADLS”: The architecture, design, exterior lighting, landscaping and signage
associated with a Building.
Amenities: Amenities shall include all buildings and outdoor spaces available for
the use and enjoyment of the residents of the Real Estate.
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Area A: The area identified as “Area A” on the Concept Plan. This area is
comprised of custom lots.
Area B: The area identified as “Area B” on the Concept Plan. This area is
comprised of Main Level Living Series Lots.
Area C: The area identified as “Area C” on the Concept Plan. This area is
comprised of Edge Series Lots.
Architectural Character Imagery: These comprise the elevations attached hereto as
(i) Exhibit C (Architectural Character Imagery – Main Level Living Series
Homes), and,(ii) Exhibit D (Architectural Character Imagery – Edge Series Paired-
Homes), are intended to generally and conceptually illustrate an application of the
Development Requirements. Architectural Character Imagery is general and not
intended to delineate the only final Dwelling designs that may be built. Dwellings
will comply with the Architectural Standards but may vary from the Architectural
Character Imagery provided all applicable Architectural Standards of this Clay
Cottages Ordinance are met.
Architectural Standards: The Architectural Standards incorporated herein under
Exhibit E (Architectural Standards).
Building: A structure having a roof supported by columns and walls, for shelter,
support, or a Dwelling or Home.
Concept Plan: The general plan for the development of the Real Estate, including
but not limited to lots, blocks, streets attached hereto as Exhibit B (Concept Plan).
The Concept Plan includes an Area Map which identifies the location of Area A,
Area B, Area C and Area D as further regulated by the terms of this Clay Cottages
Ordinance.
Controlling Developer: Shall mean Taylor Morrison Of Indiana, LLC or the owner
of the Real Estate at the time of adoption of the Clay Cottages Ordinance, until such
time as Taylor Morison of Indiana, LLC or the owner transfers or assigns, in
writing, its rights as Controlling Developer.
“Development Plan” or “DP”: A specific plan for the development of the Real
Estate, or any portion thereof, which is submitted for approval, showing proposed
locations of lots, blocks and streets.
“Development Plan Approval” or “DP Approval”: A Development Plan Approved
by the Plan Commission pursuant to the procedures for DP Approval of the UDO.
Development Requirements: Written development standards and any written
requirements specified in this Clay Cottages Ordinance, which must be satisfied in
connection with the approval of a Development Plan and Building Permits.
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Edge Series: The Lot/Home series of single-family Dwellings as illustrated in
Exhibit D (Architectural Character Imagery – Edge Series Paired-Homes).
Main Level Living Series: The Lot/Home series of single-family Dwellings as
illustrated in Exhibit C (Architectural Character Imagery – Main Level Living
Series)
Open Space: Open space / common areas shall comprise a areas of land, areas of
water, or a combination of land and water located within the Real Estate and
designed by the Controlling Developer. Open Space does not include any area
which is divided into individual Dwelling lots or streets. Open Space shall be in the
areas generally identified on the Concept Plan.
Plan Commission: The City of Carmel Plan Commission.
Real Estate: The Real Estate legally described in Exhibit A (Legal Description).
Setback, Minimum: The minimum setback a dwelling shall be from the property
line. Stoops, steps, and landings, may encroach into the required Minimum Front
Yard Setback. Decks and balconies may encroach into the required Minimum Rear
Yard Setback (at the alley). The aforementioned encroachments may extend no
further than ten (10) feet into the required setback, except for stoops/steps/landings
which may extend to the front property line as required to access a door to enter the
Dwelling.
Sign: Any type of sign as further defined and regulated by this Clay Cottages
Ordinance and the UDO.
Unified Development Ordinance (or “UDO”): The Unified Development
Ordinance, Ordinance Z-625-17, of the City of Carmel, Hamilton County, Indiana,
as amended.
Zone Map: The City’s official Zone Map corresponding to the UDO.
Section 3. Accessory Buildings and Uses. All Accessory Structures and Accessory Uses
allowed under the R3 Residential District of the Zoning Ordinance shall be permitted in the Clay
Cottages District; unless prohibited in the Declaration(s) of Covenants; provided, however, that
any detached Accessory Structure, including amenity buildings, shall have on all sides the same
level of architectural features and shall be architecturally compatible with the principal building(s)
with which it is associated. Accessory Structures and Accessory Uses shall be permitted subject
to the provisions of the UDO.
Section 4. Development Requirements: The following replace and supersed the R3 District
Development Standards of the UDO:
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Section 4.1 Permitted Uses:
A. Single-family Dwellings
B. Amenities
C. Model Home(s)
D. Construction Facility/Trailer
E. Maximum Dwellings:
1. Area A (Custom Lots): There shall be no more than six (6) single-family
dwellings in Area A.
2. Area B (Main Level Living Series Lots): There shall be no more than forty-
three (43) single-family dwellings permitted within Area B.
3. Area C (Edge Series Lots): There shall be no more than fifty-six (56) single
-family dwellings permitted within Area C.
Section 4.2 Bulk Requirements:
A. Area A (Custom Lots):
1. Minimum Lot Area: Thirty Thousand (30,000) square feet.
2. Minimum Lot Width at Building Line: Ninety (90) feet.
3. Minimum Lot Width at Right of Way: Forty-five (45) feet. Except for
Southeast most lot which is 15’.
4. Minimum Front Yard Setback: Thirty (30) feet.
5. Minimum Side Yard Setback: Ten (10) feet.
6. Minimum Rear Yard Setback: Thirty (30) feet.
7. Maximum Lot Coverage: Thirty-five (35) percent.
8. Maximum Building Height: Thirty-five (35) feet.
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9. Minimum Living Area: (exclusive of garage, porches, stoops and
patios): Two-thousand and two hundred (2,200) square feet.
B. Area B (Main Level Living Series Lots):
1. Minimum Lot Area: Seven thousand two hundred (7,200) square feet.
2. Minimum Lot Width: Sixty (60) feet.
3. Minimum Front Yard Setback: Twenty (20) feet.
4. Minimum Side Yard Setback: Five (5) feet. Minor encroachments of
up to 8” including overhangs, masonry, and covered porch foundations
for enlarged columns shall be permitted within the side yard setback.
Window wells for basement windows shall be permitted to encroach
into side yards and can project up to 44”.
5. Minimum Aggregate of Side Yards / Building Separation: Ten (10)
feet. Minor encroachments of up to 8” including overhangs, masonry,
and covered porch foundations for enlarged columns shall be permitted
within the aggregate of side yards / building separation. Window wells
for basement windows shall be permitted to encroach into side yards
and can project up to 44”.
6. Minimum Rear Yard Setback: Twenty (20) feet.
7. Maximum Lot Coverage: Sixty (60) percent.
8. Maximum Principal Buildings per Lot: One (1) .
9. Maximum Building Height: Thirty-five (35) feet as measured from the
mid-point of the roof ridge.
10. Minimum Living Area: (exclusive of garage, porches, stoops and
patios): Two thousand (2,000) square feet.
C. Area C (Edge Series Lots):
1. Minimum Lot Area: Four Thousand Four Hundred (4,400) square feet.
2. Minimum Lot Width: Forty (40) feet.
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3. Minimum Front Yard Setback: Fifteen (15) feet.
4. Minimum Side Yard Setback: Five (5) feet. Minor encroachments of
up to 8” including overhangs, masonry, and covered porch foundations
for enlarged columns shall be permitted within the side yard setback.
Window wells for basement windows shall be permitted to encroach
into side yards and can project up to 44”.
5. Minimum Aggregate of Side Yards / Building Separation: Ten (10)
feet. Minor encroachments of up to 8” including overhangs, masonry,
and covered porch foundations for enlarged columns shall be permitted
within the aggregate of side yards / building separation. Window wells
for basement windows shall be permitted to encroach into side yards
and can project up to 44”.
6. Minimum Rear Yard Setback: Ten (10) feet. A minimum of twenty
(20) feet shall be provided between garage doors and the alley pavement
to allow for parking in the driveway.
7. Maximum Lot Coverage: Sixty (60) percent.
8. Maximum Principal Buildings per Lot: One (1) .
9. Maximum Building Height: Thirty-five (35) feet as measured from the
mid-point of the roof ridge.
10. Minimum Living Area: (exclusive of garage, porches, stoops and
patios): Two thousand (2,000) square feet.
11. Dwelling Orientation: The driveway of all Edge Series Homes shall
access an alley (no direct driveway to street access shall be permitted).
12. Lot sidewalk: All Dwellings shall provide a sidewalk connection from
the front door of each dwelling to sidewalk at the street.
Section 4.3 Applicable landscaping requirements are contained in Section 6 of this Clay
Cottages Ordinance.
Section 4.4 Applicable signage requirements are contained in Section 7 of this Clay
Cottages Ordinance.
Section 4.5 Applicable additional requirements and standards are contained in Section 8 of
this Clay Cottages Ordinance.
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Section 4.6 Architectural Standards:
A. The applicable Architectural Character Imagery, indicating conceptually the
intended architecture and appearance of Dwellings in Area B are contained
within Exhibit C (Architectural Character Imagery – Main Level Living Series
Homes), and Dwellings in Area C are contained within Exhibit D
(Architectural Character Imagery – Edge Series Homes).
B. Dwelling Architecture: Applicable architectural requirements and standards for
all Dwellings in Area B, and Area C are contained in Exhibit E (Architectural
Standards) of this Clay Cottages Ordinance.
Section 4.7 Lot Lighting: All Dwellings in Area B, and Area C shall have light fixtures
flanking the garage doors and equipped with a photocell so the light is on from dusk to
dawn.
Section 4.8 Street Lighting: Street lighting (lighting in the street right-of-way), shall (i) be
confined to the street intersections and (ii) meet all applicable City standards and (iii) be
reviewed by the City.
Section 4.9 Parking:
A. Alleys shall be required in Area C.
B. Four (4) parking spaces per Dwelling are required.
C. Parking Spaces (i) within driveways, (ii) within garages, and (iii) on-street
parking shall count toward required parking.
D. Driveways designed to permit parking shall be a minimum of twenty (20) feet
in length and vehicles shall not be parked in a location that encroaches onto a
sidewalk or alley.
E. Driveways shall be concrete. Asphalt driveways shall not be permitted.
Section 5. Common Area Requirements. Common Area shall be in the areas generally
identified on the Concept Plan.
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Section 5.1 Open Space Requirements. Open Space is intended to allow for balance
between natural areas and the built environment. Open Space should either be common
area under the control and maintenance of the HOA under the Declaration of Covenants or
subjected to restricted covenants that are placed or recorded in the office of the Recorder
of Hamilton County, Indiana.
Section 5.2 Minimum Open Space Requirement. Not less than 6.5 acres of the Real
Estate shall be Open Space.
Section 5.3 Location of Open Space. Open Space shall be provided in the areas
identified on the Development Plan/Primary Plat/Common Area Plan.
Section 5.4 Internal paths and sidewalks shall be of a width and location as generally
depicted on the Concept Plan. All internal paths not located in right-of-way shall be located
in a public pedestrian easement. The final location of the internal trail is subject to existing
easements and final engineering. If the internal paths are prevented from being installed
as generally shown, then an alternative path location may be provided that still provide
access within the subject area of the Real Estate.
Section 6. Landscaping Requirements. Landscaping shall comply with the following standards:
Section 6.1 Landscape Plan. Landscaping shall be integrated, where appropriate, with
other functional and ornamental site design elements (e.g. hardscape materials, entryway
documentation, paths, sidewalks, natural areas, fencing or water features). A detailed
landscape plan showing the size, location and variety of all plantings within the project site
shall be submitted and approved. Landscaping shall substantially comply with the
following general standards:
A. The Landscape Plan shall be submitted electronically (portable document
format (PDF) or equivalent) and also on paper sheets not smaller than
eleven (11) by seventeen (17) inches, and not larger than twenty-four (24)
by thirty-six (36) inches.
B. The Landscape Plan shall exhibit a design that is integral and coordinated
with other corresponding improvements for the site and which clearly
demonstrates the function, location, size and scale of plants in relation to
buildings and other site improvements, and to minimize conflicts with
commercial signage. (See City of Carmel’s Sign Ordinance Visual Guide –
Available from the Department of Community Services)
C. The Landscape Plan shall be drawn to scale, including dimensions and
distances, and drawn to correspond with all existing and planned buildings
and other physical improvements, including overhead and underground
utilities.
D. The Landscape Plan shall include graphic planting details for trees,
shrubbery, and ground cover/ornamental grass. (See City of Carmel’s
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Graphic Planting Details – Available from the Department of Community
Services)
E. The Landscape Plan shall include a schedule of plants: including a symbol
key, botanical name, common name and shall delineate the size, container
type, description and quantity of all plant material.
F. The Landscape Plan shall identify locations of new plant material with
keyed symbols.
G. The Landscape Plan shall identify existing vegetation to remain by
botanical name and size.
Section 6.2 General Provisions.
A. The dimensions and design of any planting area shall be sufficient to contain
the landscaping material planted therein and to provide for proper growth.
The planting areas shall contain topsoil which is free of non-soil material,
brick and other building and construction material. The following minimum
interior dimensions for all planting areas shall be used:
1. Shade and Conifer Trees: Fifteen (15) feet long by eight (8) feet
wide by three (3) feet in depth.
2. Ornamental Trees: Ten (10) feet long by five (5) feet wide by three
(3) feet in depth.
3. Shrubs (only): Five (5) feet long by five (5) feet wide by three (3)
feet in depth
B. A vegetative cover shall be used for all landscaped areas except for mulched
plantings beds containing trees and/or shrubbery and inert stabilization in
areas subject to severe runoff or erosion.
C. Screening general areas: All air conditioning units, utility boxes, pad
mounted transformers, HVAC systems, exhaust pipes or stacks, and satellite
dishes shall be integrated into the overall building design or screened from
the Street Right-of-Way and adjoining residential zones by using walls,
fencing, mounding, parapets, penthouse screens, landscaping, camouflage
or other approved methods. Access to these areas for maintenance purposes
shall be designed into the plan.
D. Screening of outdoor storage, refuse and loading areas: All outdoor storage,
trash and refuse containers and loading areas shall be screened from all
Streets and adjacent residential properties. An opaque screen at least six (6)
feet in height comprised of plants, trees, walls or other opaque materials
must be provided.
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E. No plant material or berm shall obstruct the sight distance of motorists
entering or leaving the site.
Section 6.3 Plant Material. Plant material shall be selected and installed to comply with
the following requirements:
A. Landscape materials selected shall be appropriate to local growing and
climate conditions and follow the guidelines set by the American Standard
for Nursery Stock. ANSI Z60.1 (current edition) American Association of
Nurserymen, Inc.
B. Recommended and undesirable trees: (See City of Carmel’s Recommended
Tree List – Available from the Department of Community Services)
C. Trees and shrubs shall be carefully selected and properly planted and
maintained whereas they will not:
1. Impair pedestrian access to sidewalks and structures;
2. Cause damage to nearby buildings or adjoining public
improvements;
3. Interfere with aboveground and underground utilities, including
access to aboveground and underground utilities;
4. Conflict with vehicles when parked; and
5. Restrict or impair sight distance of motorists and bicyclists entering
or leaving the site.
D. Ground cover shall be of live plant material. Bark, stone, gravel, and similar
materials may be used in combination with a vegetative cover.
E. Condition: All plants shall be of specimen quality, superior form, healthy,
vigorous, well branched, densely foliated when in leaf, free of disease and
insects eggs or larvae and shall have well-developed root systems. Plants
shall be free from damage or conditions that would prevent normal growth.
F. Size of Plant Material: All plant material shall be installed in accordance to
the following size specifications below. Plant material shall be in
accordance with the most current publication of the American Standard for
Nursery Stock as produced by the American National Standards Institute,
Inc.
G. Street trees and shade trees: All street trees and shade trees at the time of
planting shall have a minimum caliper of two and one-half (2.5) inches
when measured from six (6) inches above ground level.
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1. Ornamental trees: All ornamental trees at the time of planting shall
have a minimum caliper of one and one-half (1.5) inches when
measured from six (6) inches above ground level.
2. Evergreen trees: All evergreen trees at the time of planting shall
have a minimum height of six (6) feet.
3. Shrubbery: All deciduous and evergreen shrubs at the time of
planting shall have a minimum height of eighteen (18) inches.
4. Ground Cover/Ornamental Grass: All ground cover/ornamental
grass at the time of planting shall have a minimum size of one (1),
gallon unless otherwise noted on the Landscape Plan.
Section 6.4 Street Trees and Lot Landscaping Requirements:
A. Street Trees.
1. Large growing street trees shall be planted within the public right-
of-way, parallel to each street, in planting strips. Street trees shall
be planted a minimum of twenty-five (25) feet and a maximum of
fifty (50) feet on center and are not required to be evenly placed.
2. Street tree species shall be selected from the city's published list of
recommended street trees.
B. Foundation Plantings.
1. Foundation plantings shall occur within planting beds at least five
(5) feet in width, with exceptions for appropriate approach
Driveways, courtyards, plazas, and pedestrian access to building
entrances.
2. The primary landscaping materials used shall be shrubs, ornamental
grasses and ground cover. Plantings shall cover 75% of the planting
area.
3. Spacing for foundation shrubbery shall not exceed five (5) foot
intervals; except where occupied by an impervious surface.
C. Lot Plantings.
1. Front landscaping on each Lot shall include the following: 20
shrubs (minimum 3 gallon planted); and one yard shade trees.
2. No tree shall be closer than 10’ from a building foundation.
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Section 6.5 Landscape Installation and Maintenance.
1. Installation: All required landscaping approved as part of a
DP/ADLS plan shall be installed prior to the issuance of a full
Certificate of Occupancy. When it is not possible to install the
required landscaping because of weather conditions, the property
owner may be issued a temporary Certificate of Occupancy for a
period up to six (6) months or until the installation can be
completed and the final landscape inspection passed, whichever is
less.
2. Maintenance: It shall be the responsibility of the owners and their
agents to insure proper maintenance of all trees, shrubbery and
other landscaping approved as part of the DP/ADLS Plans in
accordance with the standards set by this sub-section. This should
consist of watering, fertilizing, proper mulching, clearing of debris
and weeds, monitoring for pests and disease, mowing, pruning, the
removal and timely replacement of dead, hazardous or dying
plants, treating for disease or injury, or any other similar act(s)
which promotes growth, health, beauty and the life of trees,
shrubs, turf and other plants.
Section 6.5 Perimeter Buffer Yards. Perimeter buffer yards shall be installed along the
boundaries of the Real Estate within a landscape easement. The perimeter buffer yards
shall be as follows:
1. The perimeter buffer yard for the western boundary perimeter
(areas fronting Towne Road as shown on the concept plan) shall
be a minimum of twenty (20) feet in width, and for each one
hundred (100) lineal feet of the buffer yard shall contain not less
than eight (8) shade or evergreen trees, not less than two (2)
ornamental trees and not less than twenty-five (25) shrubs.
2. The perimeter buffer yard for the north boundary perimeter shall
be a minimum of twenty (20) feet in width, and for each one
hundred (100) lineal feet of the buffer yard shall contain not less
than four (4) shade or evergreen trees, not less than one (1)
ornamental trees and not less than fifteen (15) shrubs.
3. The perimeter buffer yard for the east boundary shall be a
minimum of twenty (20) feet in width, and each one hundred (100)
lineal feet of the buffer yard shall contain not less than four (4)
shade or evergreen trees, not less than one (1) ornamental
tree, and not less than fifteen (15) shrubs.
4. The perimeter buffer yard for the south boundary (between Area
A & Area B) shall be a minimum of twenty (20) feet in width, and
each one hundred (100) lineal feet of the buffer yard shall contain
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not less than four (4) shade or evergreen trees, not less than one
(1) ornamental tree, and not less than fifteen (15) shrubs.
Section 7. Signage Requirements. All signage on the Real Estate shall comply with the UDO
as amended below.
Section 7.1 Entryway Features shall require ADLS Amendment approval.
Section 7.2 A subdivision entry sign shall be permitted at (i) each of the two (2)
connections of internal streets to the Towne Road per UDO sign standards.
Section 8. Additional Requirements and Standards.
Section 8.1. Home Occupations. Home Occupations shall meet the requirements of the
UDO as amended.
Section 8.2. Street Right-of-way, Alley, and internal drive widths and cross-sections:
A. Streets shall be public and alleys shall be private.
Section 8.3. Sidewalks and Pedestrian Amenities.
A. A five (5) foot wide sidewalk shall be required along all internal streets except
along segments where ten (10) foot wide paths are provided.
B. Sidewalks and paths shall be located in the right-of-way or a pedestrian access
easement outside the right-of-way.
C. Internal paths and sidewalks shall be installed within the Open Space as
generally shown on the Concept Plan.
D. All baths shall be located in a right-of-way or a pedestrian access easement.
Section 8.4. Amenities. The following amenities shall be provided at a minimum.
A. Asphalt walking trails
B. Covered Wooden Shelter with tables and benches
C. Nature-inspired community fire pit area
D. Recreation Areas – Best efforts shall be made to incorporate nature inspired
native plantings and features such as a monarch butterfly garden
E. In addition to the paths noted above in Section 8.3 small parks with seating and
landscaping shall be provided throughout the pedestrian network.
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Section 8.5. Road Improvement Requirements. Development of the Real Estate shall
meet all applicable Thoroughfare Plan related improvement requirements as identified in
and required under the UDO.
Section 9. Procedural Provisions.
Section 9.1. Development Plans and Architectural Compliance.
A. Development Plan (“DP”) approval by the Plan Commission, as prescribed in
UDO, shall be required prior to the issuance of an Improvement Location
Permit to determine if the DP satisfies the Development Requirements specified
within this Clay Cottages Ordinance.
B. The Real Estate shall be developed in substantial compliance with the Concept
Plan hereby incorporated and attached as Exhibit “B” subject to
Development Plan Approval by the Plan Commission. Substantial
compliance shall be regulated in the same manner as the “substantially or
materially altered” provisions of the UDO as it applies to Development
Plans.
C. Architectural Standards compliance shall be reviewed by the Director at the
time of Building permit Application for homes in Area B and Area C. All
homes in Area B and Area C shall be in general conformance with the
architectural Character Exhibits for the Main Level Living and, Edge Series
homes (Exhibit C and Exhibit D respectively) and meet the Architectural
Standards included under Exhibit E.
D. If there is a Substantial Alteration in any approved DP, review and approval of
the amended plans shall be made by the Plan Commission, or a Committee
thereof, pursuant to the Plan Commission’s rules of procedure. Minor
Alterations shall be approved by the Director.
Section 9.2. Primary Plat. A Development Plan approved by the Plan Commission shall
be, upon approval, the Primary Plat of the Real Estate.
Section 9.3. Secondary Plat Approval. The Director shall have sole and exclusive
authority to approve, with or without conditions, or to disapprove any Secondary Plat;
provided, however, that the Director shall not unreasonably withhold or delay the Director's
approval of a Secondary Plat that is in substantial conformance with the Development
Plan/Primary Plat and is in conformance with the Development Requirements of this Clay
Cottages Ordinance. If the Director disapproves any Secondary Plat, the Director shall set
forth in writing the basis for the disapproval and schedule the request for hearing before
the Plan Commission.
Section 9.4 Modification of Development Requirements (Zoning Waiver). The Plan
Commission may, after a public hearing, grant an applicant a Zoning Waiver subject to the
18
requirements of the UDO. A wavier of the provisions of this Clay Cottages Ordinance may
be granted up to a maximum of thirty-five (35) percent of the specified standard.
Section 9.5. Variance of Development Requirements. The BZA may authorize
Variances from the terms of the Clay Cottages Ordinance, subject to the procedures
prescribed in the UDO.
Section 10. Violations and Enforcement. All violations and enforcement of this Clay
Cottages Ordinance shall be subject to the requirements of the UDO.
Section 11. Exhibits. All of the Exhibits (A-E) on the following pages are attached to this Clay
Cottages Ordinance, are incorporated by reference into this Clay Cottages Ordinance and are part
of this Clay Cottages Ordinance.
The remainder of this page is left blank intentionally.
Exhibit “A” – Page 1 of 3
Exhibit “A”
(Legal Description)
Legal Descriptions of the Land
PARCEL 1 (Parcel #17-09-33-00-00-003.000 (12411 Towne Road- 14.32 acres)
Parcel 1
Part of the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 33, Township 18 North, Range 3 East, in
Hamilton County, Indiana, more particularly described as follows:
Beginning on the west line of the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 33, Township 18 North,
Range 3 East 326.67 feet north of the Southwest corner thereof; thence North on and along the west line of said
Quarter Section 163.30 feet; thence Easterly parallel with the south line of said Quarter 1333.77 feet to the east
line of said Quarter; thence South on and along said east line 163.30 feet; thence Westerly parallel with the south
line of said Quarter 1333.64 feet to the place of beginning.
Parcel 2
Part of the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 33, Township 18 North, Range 3 East, in
Hamilton County, Indiana, more particularly described as follows:
Beginning at the southwest comer of the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 33, Township
18 North, Range 3 East; thence North on and along the west line of said Quarter Section 326.67 feet; thence
Easterly parallel with the south line of said Quarter 1333.64 feet to the east line of said Quarter; thence South on
and along said east line 326.67 feet to the south line of said Quarter; thence West on and along said south line
1333.38 feet to the place of beginning.
PARCEL 2 Parcel #17-09-33-00-00-001.001 (12511 Towne Road- 8.59 acres)
Part of the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 33, Township 18 North, Range 3 East in
Hamilton County, Indiana, more particularly described as follows:
Beginning on the west line of the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 33, Township 18 North,
Range 3 East 489.97 feet north of the southwest corner thereof; thence north on and along the west line of said
quarter section 293.91 feet; thence easterly parallel with the south line of said quarter section 1334.00 feet to the
east line of said quarter; thence south on and along said east line 293.91 feet: thence westerly parallel with the
south line of said quarter 1333. 77 feet to the place of beginning, containing 9.0 acres, more or less.
EXCEPT that real estate conveyed to the City of Carmel by Warranty Deed dated June 19, 2007, and recorded
September 4, 2007, as Instrument 2007050204, and more particularly described as follows:
A part of the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 33, Township 18 North Range 3 East,
Hamilton County, Indiana, and being that part of the grantor's land lying within the right-of-way lines depicted
on the attached Location Control Route Survey Plat marked as Exhibit "B", described as follows: Beginning on
the west line of said quarter section North 0 degrees 27 minutes 11 seconds West 489.97 feet from the southwest
corner of said quarter-quarter section, which point of beginning is the southwest corner of the grantors' land;
thence North 0 degrees 27 minutes 11 seconds West 293.91 feet along said west line to the northwest corner of
the granters' land; thence North 89 degrees 07 minutes 06 seconds East 60.00 feet along the north line of the
granters' land; thence South 0 degrees 27 minutes 11 seconds East 293.91 feet to the south line of the granters'
land; thence South 89 degrees 07 minutes 06 seconds West 60.00 feet along said south line to the point of
beginning and containing 0.405 acres more or less.
PARCEL 3 Parcel #l 7-09-33-00-00-001.000 (12545 Towne Road- 14.14 acres)
Part of the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 33, Township 18 North, Range 3 East being
that land described in Instrument Number 200500023870 recorded in the Hamilton County Recorder's Office,
together with a 31.64 foot strip of land adjoining the southmost line of said real estate being part of the real estate
Exhibit “A” – Page 2 of 3
described in Instrument Number 8744184 recorded in said Recorder's Office, all located in Clay Township,
Hamilton County, Indiana, more particularly described as follows:
Commencing at the Southwest corner of the Northwest Quarter of the Northwest Quarter of Section 33,
Township 18 North, Range 3 East, Clay Township, Hamilton County, Indiana; thence North 00 degrees 27
minutes 13 seconds West (assumed bearing) on the West line of said quarter-quarter section a distance of
"1106.89 feet to the southwest corner of Instrument Number 2007050202 recorded in said Hamilton County
Recorder's Office; thence North 89 degrees 18 minutes 03 seconds East along the south line thereof a distance
of 55.00 feet to a 24" long, 5/8-inch diameter rebar with yellow plastic cap stamped "Schneider Firm #0001",
hereinafter referred to as a
"capped rebar", and the Point of Beginning; thence continuing North 89 degrees 18 minutes 03 seconds East
parallel with the South line of the said quarter-quarter section a distance of 319.33 feet to a capped rebar; thence
South 02 degrees 01 minutes 18 seconds West a distance of 355.08 feet to a capped rebar; thence North 89
degrees 18 minutes 03 seconds East parallel with the South line of said quarter-quarter section a distance of 97
4. 7 4 feet to a capped rebar on the East line thereof (the next two (2) courses are on the perimeter of the Real
Estate described in Deed Book 323, Page 682 in said Recorder's Office); thence North 00 degrees 23 minutes 44
seconds West on the East line of said quarter-quarter section a distance of 562.78 feet to a capped rebar at the
Northeast corner thereof; thence South 89 degrees 14 minutes 42 seconds West on the North line of said quarter-
quarter section a distance of 1229.32 feet to a capped rebar at the northeast corner of aforementioned Instrument
Number 2007050202 in said Recorder's Office (the next two (2) courses are along east lines of said real estate);
thence South 22 degrees 38 minutes 29 seconds West a distance of 127.43 feet to a capped rebar; thence South
00 degrees 27 minutes 13 seconds East a distance of 89.89 feet to the Point or Beginning, containing 13,90 acres
of land, more or less.
Exhibit “A” – Page 3 of 3
Exhibit “A”
(Legal Description)
Exhibit “B” Page 1 of 2
Exhibit “B”
(Concept Plan)
Exhibit “B” Page 2 of 2
Exhibit “B”
(Area Map)
Area B
Area C
Area A
Exhibit “C”
(Architectural Character Imagery – Main Level Living Series Homes / Area B)
Exhibit “D”
(Architectural Character Imagery – Edge Series Homes / Area C)
Exhibit “E” – Page 1 of 7
Exhibit “E”
(Architectural Standards)
I. INTRODUCTION AND PROCEDURE
A. Character Imagery: Applicable Architectural Character Imagery, indicating
conceptually the intended architecture and appearance of Dwellings is attached
hereto as (i) Exhibit C (Architectural Character Imagery – Main Level Living
Series Homes), and (ii) Exhibit D (Architectural Character Imagery – Edge Series
Homes.
B. Improvements subject to regulation: Construction of (i) any building, fence,
wall, swimming pool, tennis court, patio, parking area or other structure or (ii) the
installation of any plantings or exterior lighting, shall require the prior written
approval of the City subject to the Procedural Provisions of this Clay Cottages
Ordinance.
C. Alterations: If a proposed floor plan or elevation is deemed non-compliant with
the standards set forth in this Clay Cottages Ordinance, then the Director of the
Department of Community Services (the “Director”) or the Director’s Designee
may review and approve if the Director determines that the floor plan or elevation
meets the intent of the Architectural Standards. As an alternative, the Residential
Committee of the Plan Commission may approve a proposed floor plan or elevation
by a majority vote.
II. BUILDING REQUIREMENTS APPLICABLE
A. Thematic Character: Development of Area B and Area C shall be unified by a
common design theme reflective of the vernacular architectural styles found in an
Indiana community. Residential structures are to be predominantly Farmhouse,
Federal, Greek Revival, Italianate, Gothic Revival, Prairie, Cottage, Modern
Prairie, Modern, Craftsman, New Traditional, Colonial and Tudor in style, although
other residential styles common in nineteenth and early twentieth century Indiana
towns are also encouraged.
Structures are not required to be imitative or encompass all features identified with
qualities that are contained within the architectural style. Diversity of style and
design elements is essential to avoid monotonous repetition. The design goal is to
capture a moment of time which is convincingly reflective of the natural growth of
a community over a 100+ year period.
Illustrations of character examples for approved architectural styles can be found
in the chapters of the book "THE FIELD GUIDE TO AMERICAN HOUSES" by
Virginia and Lee McAlester.
B. General Design Principles:
1. Buildings shall define the streetscape through the use of established setbacks
for each block. The streetscape shall be reinforced by lines of shade trees.
2. Buildings shall be designed to be compatible with the height and massing of
adjacent buildings, as well as in relation to the human scale.
3. Masonry (stone and brick), if used on the front façade, shall be required on the
side and rear facades.
4. All materials, colors, and architectural details used on the exterior of a building
shall be compatible with the building's style, and with each other. A building
designed of an architectural style that normally includes certain integral
materials, colors, and/or details shall incorporate such into its design.
C. Building Design: The architectural design of all improvements to be located on
the lot is subject to the prior approval of the Controlling Developer and Plan
Commission.
D. Roofs:
1. Roof pitches should be simply and symmetrically pitched and only in the
configuration of gables and hips, with pitches ranging from 6:12 to 14:12.
Gable, dormer and porch roof pitches may vary to achieve various architectural
styles. Shed roofs (which pitch in one direction) are permitted only when the
ridge is attached to an exterior wall of a building, in which instance the pitch
shall be between 4:12 and 14:12.
2. Asphalt shingles shall be used and shall be a 30-year dimensional style.
3. All vents, attic ventilators, turbines, flues and other roof penetrations must be
painted to match the color of the roof or flat black except those made of metal
which may be left natural. Roofs shall have ridge vents or vents shall attach to
the rear or side of the unit to reduce visibility from the street.
4. Overhangs shall be a minimum of twelve (12) inch roof overhang prior to the
installation of masonry or siding material (where masonry meets any overhang,
the overhang shall be eight (8) inch minimum).
5. Homes shall have a minimum of three (3) ridgelines, unless fewer is consistent
with a historical style of the home, in which case a minimum of two (2)
ridgelines are required. Only two (2) ridgelines are required if the front and two
sides of the first floor are masonry wrapped. Ridge lines shall only be
considered if they are horizontal ridges which form the peak of a pitched area
that are a minimum of four (4) feet in length. Covered and enclosed porches
shall count as a ridgeline. Any deviations to this may be approved by the
Director of the Department of Community Services (the “Director”) or the
Director’s Designee may review and approve if the Director determines that the
floor plan or elevation meets the intent of the Architectural Standards. As an
alternative, the Residential Committee of the Plan Commission may approve a
proposed floor plan or elevation by a majority vote.
E. Exterior Facades, Colors, and Materials:
1. Base colors and complementary or contrast colors should be compatible with
the style of the structure. All exterior colors are subject to Controlling
Developer approval.
2. Approved facade materials include: wood clapboard; fiber cement siding; brick;
stone; manufactured or synthetic stone or brick; natural stone; cultured stone.
3. Building facades of non-masonry material shall have all openings trimmed in
wood boards 1 x 4 inch nominal width and corners trimmed in wood boards of
1 x 6 inch nominal width (except where the style requires a wider width). Doors
may have wider trim.
4. The front and side facades of all buildings adjacent to a public street or
Common Area shall be of the same materials and similarly detailed except
where inappropriate to the historic style of the structure.
5. Gables atop brick walls may be finished in fiber cement, wood, or other similar
material.
6. Corner Breaks: Each home shall have a minimum of three (3) corner breaks on
the front facade and two (2) corner breaks on the rear facade. The exterior
corners of a covered porch, the outermost corners of the home, and a projection
with a height of no less than four (4) feet shall count toward this requirement.
7. Masonry wainscot (at a minimum) shall be required on all sides of the dwellings
(front, both sides and rear). The wainscot shall be a minimum height of the
lower of (i) 36" above grade, or (ii) the bottom of the windows of the home (not
including smaller accent windows). As many as twenty-five percent (25%) of
homes may have less than the required masonry except on a corner lot or next
to a common area where masonry shall be required.
8. Side Façades Adjacent to public space: The side facade of dwellings adjacent
to Open Space and street rights-of-way (including an alley) shall include a
masonry wainscot per the standards above.
F. Entrances:
1. All entrances to a building should be defined and articulated by architectural
elements. Any such element utilized shall be architecturally compatible with
the style, materials, colors, and details of the building as a whole.
2. Doors may be of wood, steel, or fiberglass. "Sliding" or "patio" doors are
permitted only in a side or rear yard application and are permitted to be vinyl.
Storm doors and screen doors shall be full view without decorative trim.
3. Doors shall have glass, raised panels, or both. Storm doors and screen doors
shall be finished to match the door they serve or the trim around it.
G. Windows:
1. Window design is an integral feature of an architectural style. The number of
panes, the way it opens, the trim around it and whether it is embellished with
shutters must be consistent with the style of the structure. Variation in window
size, configuration, spacing and number of panes can distinguish structures and
contribute to a pleasing mix of compatible facades.
2. Window type shall be vinyl, vinyl clad, aluminum clad or wood. Glass shall be
clear and free of color except where stained or art glass is appropriate to the
historic style of the structure.
3. All windows shall have the appearance of true divided lites by way of window
grids.
4. All windows on a home shall be trimmed on all four sides except for windows
that are (i) trimmed by Masonry, (ii) located on the front of the home and have
shutters on both sides of the window, or (iii) located within a portion of a facade
that is covered in Masonry. Trim boards shall not be less than 1" by 4" (nominal)
in size.
5. Each front facade shall include a minimum of three (3) windows, and each rear
facade shall include a minimum of four (4) windows. Windows installed in a
garage, a service door with a window, and transom windows in bathroom or
storage areas shall count as one window for purposes of this requirement as
long as the window(s) in the garage exceed an aggregate of four (4) square feet
in size.
6. Each side facade shall include not less than two (2) windows per floor.
Windows installed in a garage, a service door with a window, and transom
windows in bathroom or storage areas shall count as one window for purposes
of this requirement as long as the window(s) in the garage exceed an aggregate
of four (4) square feet in size.
7. In counting windows, a double-hung shall count as one (1) window and each
casement window where the glass is enclosed by vinyl, vinyl clad or aluminum
clad, or wood material frame shall count as one (1) window. Windows shall be
a minimum of four (4) square feet in size in order to count towards the minimum
window requirements on the front and rear of a home and a minimum of four
(4) square feet in size in order to count towards the minimum window
requirements on the sides of the home.
8. All windows on a home shall be trimmed on all four sides except for windows
that are (i) trimmed by Masonry, (ii) located on the front of the home and have
shutters on both sides of the window, or (iii) located within a portion of a facade
that is covered in Masonry. Trim boards shall not be less than 1" by 4" (nominal)
in size.
H. Trim:
1. Eaves, corner boards, gable and eave boards, pediments, friezes, lintels,
pilasters, sills, quoins, bargeboards, belt courses, balustrades, brackets, hood
molds and other trim features are defining characteristics of various approved
architectural styles and must be included in the design of the structure. The
absence of essential detail detracts from the integrity of the design and destroys
the character of the facade.
2. Columns and pilasters shall be of an order appropriate to the architectural style
of the structure, and where appropriate to the style of the structure.
I. Garages and Driveways:
1. Garages shall be designed with decorative garage doors as defined below.
2. All garage doors shall be built of wood, embossed hardboard, embossed steel,
fiberglass, or aluminum and shall have a minimum of one (1) of the following:
windows, hardware or raised panels. Garage doors shall not exceed 18 feet in
width for a two-car bay and 9 feet in width for a single-car bay.
3. Edge Series homes shall include a garage that is located to the rear of the house.
Garage doors shall not face the street
J. Sidewalks:
1. Sidewalks must be installed within thirty (30) days following substantial
completion of the principal structure on a block.
2. Sidewalks from the front entry of the building to the public sidewalk shall be
constructed of concrete.
3. Public sidewalks in predominantly residential areas must be five (5) feet in
width and constructed of concrete or other approved pavement materials.
Asphalt is not approved for such purpose.
4. Sidewalks must be flush to the ground and constructed in accordance with the
design standards of the City of Carmel to the extent such standards are not
inconsistent with the Zoning Ordinance or these Guidelines.
K. Mailboxes and Newspaper Boxes:
1. All mailboxes must be of uniform size, type and color.
2. Newspaper boxes or receptacles may be incorporated into the mailbox. No other
boxes are allowed.
L. Walls and Fences:
1. Stone walls or brick walls with a stone or cast stone cap, wood or wrought iron
fences (and aluminum equivalent style), are permitted. Solid wood fences are
permitted in rear and side yards only. Fence locations and patterns are subject
to the approval of the Controlling Developer.
2. Gates in fences shall be built of the fence material. Gates in garden walls may
be of wood or wrought iron.
3. Retaining walls may be constructed of brick, stone, concrete or wood.
4. Fences built of wood shall be stained or painted a color approved by the
Controlling Developer. Fences built of wrought iron (and aluminum equivalent
style) shall be painted black.
5. The design of all walls and fences are subject to approval by the Controlling
Developer. Fences are limited to wood picket in various configurations or
wrought iron (or its aluminum equivalent) not exceeding forty-two (42) inches
in height, except as follows:
a. A six (6) foot fence may be constructed along any rear yard and between
buildings.
b. For purposes of affording privacy to a patio or deck area, a fence not
exceeding eight (8) feet in height shall be permitted and located in the
permitted building area.
c. Fences are to be painted; the color of paint must be approved by the
Controlling Developer.
M. Exterior Lighting:
1. Light fixtures attached to the exterior of a building shall be architecturally
compatible with the style, materials, colors, and details of the building.
2. See Section 4.7 for lot lighting standards.
N. Premises Identification: Each residential structure shall display a uniform street
address plaque or numbers on the front facade at a location approved by the
Controlling Developer. Such plaque or numbers shall be of a size, style, color and
material specified by the Controlling Developer.
O. Porches: A minimum of fifty (50) percent of all homes shall include a porch on
the front façade of the home which will include a minimum depth of six (6) feet.
P. Monotony Mitigation:
1. Minimum Number of Floor Plans: Area B and Area C shall have a minimum
of five (5) Floor Plans.
2. Front Façade: The same front building elevation shall not be constructed for
two (2) homes on each side of the subject home on the same side of the street
and for five (5) homes across the street from the subject home.
3. Exterior Siding Color: No two side by side homes and the home across the
street from the subject lot shall have the same primary exterior color on the
primary structure of the home.
4. Exterior Masonry Color: No two side by side homes shall have the same
masonry color.
5. Anti-Monotony Exemption: Homes that do not front the same street with
front doors facing the same street shall be exempt from this anti-monotony
requirement. In this scenario, the pattern shall reset.
PASSED by the Common Council of the City of Carmel, Indiana, this ____ day of
________, 2025, by a vote of _____ ayes and _____ nays.
COMMON COUNCIL FOR THE CITY OF CARMEL
______________________________ ______________________________
Anthony Green, President Adam Aasen, Vice-President
______________________________ ______________________________
Jeff Worrell Teresa Ayers
______________________________ ______________________________
Shannon Minnaar Ryan Locke
______________________________ ______________________________
Matthew Snyder Rich Taylor
______________________________
Anita Joshi
ATTEST:
______________________________
Jacob Quinn, Clerk
Presented by me to the Mayor of the City of Carmel, Indiana this ____ day of _________________,
2025, at ______ __.M.
_________________________________
Jacob Quinn, Clerk
Approved by me, Mayor of the City of Carmel, Indiana this ____ day of _________________, 2025,
at ______ __.M.
_________________________________
Sue Finkam, Mayor
ATTEST:
_________________________________
Jacob Quinn, Clerk
This Instrument prepared by: James E. Shinaver, attorney at law, NELSON & FRANKENBERGER and Jon C.
Dobosiewicz, land use professional, NELSON & FRANKENBERGER. 550 Congressional Blvd, Carmel, IN 46032.
Clay Cottages PUD - F 010825