12.64.502 Building Length Massing Regulations.
The objective of this section is to provide minimal requirements to ensure that the length of any new or renovated building façade in the downtown is in keeping with the historic scale of downtown façades (see Figures 1.11 and 1.12 in Community Vision and Figures A.3, A.6 and A.21 in Appendix A for examples of downtown’s historic scale). The requirements that follow outline minimal measures to compose the horizontal mass of building façades. Further building articulation as outlined in BMC 12.64.503 Architectural Elements is strongly recommended to create well integrated and attractive architecture.
B. Length Massing Elements Requirements. The following are permitted Length Massing Element types. All permitted element types may be used either alone or in combination with any other permitted element type to satisfy the Street façade Length Increment requirement.
1. Façade Offset. Street façade or Shopfront: The horizontal depth of a façade offset shall be a minimum of five percent of the width of the largest adjacent horizontal façade segment. (see diagram)
2. Pilaster/Pier. Shopfront only: The horizontal width of a protruding pilaster or pier shall be a minimum of five percent of the width of the largest adjacent horizontal façade segment. The setback of wall surface from the face of the pilaster or pier shall be a minimum of 1/4 of the pier width (see diagram). Pilasters/Piers shall not protrude into the public right-of-way.
3. Notch. Street façade or Shopfront: The width of a façade notch shall be a minimum of five percent of the width of the largest adjacent horizontal façade segment. The depth of the notch shall be at least 1/4 of the notch width (see diagram).
