Narberth planners present content‑neutral recodification of zoning code to improve clarity

Scott, the code consultant, presented a first draft recodification of Narberth’s zoning ordinance and described the project as primarily organizational and not policy changing. "This is a project to reorganize the code to make it clearer and more usable for the public and the staff," Scott said. The draft moves definitions to the front, consolidates all standards for building types into a single chapter, gathers use rules (as‑of‑right, conditional and special exceptions) into one chart, and separates technical chapters for parking, accessory buildings and green‑building standards.

Commissioners asked staff to "road‑test" the reorganized text on recent applications so Kevin Walsh, Maggie and borough staff can confirm cross‑references and ensure charts reflect legal requirements. Commissioner Heidi Boyse urged that language in the intent section be reviewed for clarity; Scott agreed to add flagged wording changes to a separate list of possible amendments. The draft also incorporates the historic‑district overlay and identifies special site‑planning provisions that may need placement refinement.

The consultant and staff emphasized process: present a content‑neutral reorganized code that the council could adopt immediately for transparency, then pursue substantive amendments separately. Scott recommended staff, the solicitor and planning commissioners review technical items and return with formal recommendations. The commission did not vote to adopt the draft at the meeting; it agreed to continue review and to seek council guidance next week on how the council wants to proceed.