Board discusses defining 'ground level'; staff and members favor averaging four corners and a 5-inch threshold

Staff opened a discussion to add definitions for "finished ground level" and "ground level improvement" after a Board of Adjustment case where a poured slab sat about 2.5 feet above adjacent grade and raised permitting questions.

Matt explained options for measurement and definition and noted the lack of an existing ground-level definition in the UDO. He outlined measurement choices including averaging elevations from the four corners of the improvement (similar to how building height is measured) and explained merits of measuring finished grade (post-construction) rather than pre-construction grade.

Board members raised concerns about sloping lots, fill rules and stormwater requirements. One member asked whether a 5-inch threshold would be too restrictive for landscaping, raised garden beds or pool surrounds; others cautioned against creating excessive surveying burdens. Matt said a practical approach would be to "measure the 4 corners, take the average, and go from there," and noted staff can work with applicants on irregular shapes and provide guidance to minimize additional costs.

Several members indicated support for a finished-grade definition and a ground-level-improvement threshold in the 4–6 inch range, with frequent references to typical curb heights (4–6 inches) and common slab thicknesses (4–6 inches). The board did not adopt a formal amendment but directed staff to draft definitions consistent with the consensus (finished grade measured post-construction by averaging four corners; ground-level improvements generally capped at about 5 inches above finished grade) and return in one to two months with proposed ordinance language for formal action.

The discussion also noted the intersection with the fill ordinance and stormwater rules: filling remains permitted where compliant with fill provisions, and post-construction measurement allows staff to confirm compliance.