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Dobbs Ferry board flags pervious-paving rules, calls for zoning-code review in comprehensive-plan process
Summary
Planning board members said the village zoning currently allows full-lot pervious paving to meet coverage standards and recommended the board consider revising definitions and coverage metrics as part of the ongoing comprehensive-plan zoning updates.
Members of the Dobbs Ferry Planning Board raised questions on Jan. 8 about the village zoning code’s treatment of pervious paving after a presentation on the 311 Broadway project. A staff member noted that, as written, the code can allow an entire lot to be covered with pervious paving while still complying with zoning coverage limits, and members urged careful consideration to avoid incentivizing paved-over lots that provide little green space.
"You can cover the entire lot with pervious paving, and it meets code," the presiding member said during the discussion. Board members pointed out that while pervious surfaces can provide stormwater benefits, relying solely on such materials to meet coverage limits can blur distinctions between stormwater performance and neighborhood character. Several members suggested the village consider separate metrics for development coverage versus impervious area or require variances in certain zones so that these decisions get board review.
Planning staff said zoning-definition changes are already expected as part of the comprehensive-plan-driven zoning updates and that the issue can be included in upcoming workshops. The board promoted attendance at a scheduled comprehensive-plan workshop and encouraged bringing the pervious-paving question to that forum for stakeholder input.
Next steps: staff will include pervious-paving definitions and lot-coverage questions in the comprehensive-plan zoning discussions and public workshops.
