A. It is not a purpose of this title that control of design character should be so rigidly enforced that individual initiative is stifled in the layout of any particular building or site and substantial additional expense incurred; rather, it is the intent of this title that any control exercised be the minimum necessary to achieve the overall objective of this title.

B. Good design character is based upon the suitability of building and site design for its purposes; upon the appropriate use of sound materials; and upon the principles of harmony and proportion in the overall design.

C. Good design character is not, in itself, more expensive than poor design, and is not dependent upon the particular style of design selected.

D. The siting of any structure on the property, as compared to the siting of other structures in the immediate neighborhood, shall be considered.

E. The size, location, design, color, number, lighting and materials of all signs and outdoor advertising structures shall be reviewed. No sign shall be approved in excess of the maximum limits set by any ordinance of the City.

F. Landscaping in accordance with the landscaping manual of the City shall be required on the site and shall be in keeping with the character or design of the site and existing trees shall be preserved whenever possible.

G. Ingress, egress and internal traffic circulation shall be so designed as to promote convenience and safety.

H. All the factors specified in this section shall be related to the setting or established character of the neighborhood or surrounding area.

I. Undergrounding of overhead utilities may be required by the Zoning Administrator subject to approval of the Planning Commission. (Ord. 3153 § 2 (Exh. A), 2010; Ord. 1653 § 1, 1975; Ord. 1356 § 1, 1971; Ord. 1212 § 1, 1969; prior code § 33.1313(A)(5)).