Galax

The provisions of this chapter are cumulative with additional limitations imposed by all other laws and ordinances previously passed or which may be passed after the adoption of this chapter, governing any subject matter appearing in this chapter.

No use, building or other structure shall hereafter be erected or altered in such manner as to become nonconforming or more nonconforming as to exceed the height or bulk, accommodate or house a greater number of families, occupy a greater percentage of lot area, have more narrow or smaller rear yards, front yards, side yards or other open space than specified in each district or be used in any manner contrary to the provisions of this chapter; nor to reduce the amount of required parking or other minimum standards set forth in this chapter.

All areas of a developed lot not occupied by buildings, structures, pedestrian and vehicle circulation ways, off-street parking and outside storage shall be appropriately improved with ground cover, trees, shrubbery or mulch.

Church spires, belfries, monuments, water towers, chimneys, flues, flagpoles, television antenna and radio aerials are exempt. An accessory structure's height shall not exceed the principal structure's height, except for garages constructed subsequent to a residence.

Home occupations are permitted in any dwelling unit subject to the limitations established herein.

It is the intent of this chapter to permit these nonconforming uses and structures to continue until they are removed but not to encourage their survival.

A parking space shall be a minimum of nine feet wide by 20 feet in length. Parking space shall be served by a driveway with a minimum width of 20 feet, and all spaces over four required shall be provided with a turnaround or maneuvering which will not require backing into a public street or right-of-way.

An off-street loading space shall be a minimum of 20 feet wide by 60 feet long.

Communication towers shall be permitted in General Business (B-2), Light Industrial (M-1), and Heavy Industrial (M-2) following a public hearing and approval as set forth in Articles XVI and XVIII.

A locality shall not require that a special exception, special use permit, or variance be obtained for any small cell facility installed by a wireless services provider or wireless infrastructure provider on an existing structure.