2031 Store Rd, Harleysville, PA 19438

Residential District

In expansion of the general intent and community development objectives found in Article I of this chapter, the primary purpose of the R1 Residential District is to preserve open land, sensitive natural areas and rural community character that would be lost under conventional development. Specific objectives are as follows: To provide for a variety of lotting opportunities consistent with the primary purpose of this district; To preserve open land, including those areas containing unique and sensitive natural features such as woodlands, steep slopes, streams, floodplains and wetlands, by setting them aside from development; To preserve scenic views and elements of the Township's rural character, and to minimize perceived density by minimizing view of new development from existing roads; To provide greater design, flexibility and efficiency in the placement of services and infrastructure, including the opportunity to reduce length of roads, utility runs and the amount of paving required for residential development; To create neighborhoods with direct visual access to preserved open land, with amenities in the form of neighborhood open space, and with a strong neighborhood identity; To implement the goals of the Township's Land Use Plan, Open Space Preservation Plan and Comprehensive Plan; To reduce erosion and sedimentation by the retention of existing vegetation and the minimization of development on steep slopes; To create new woodlands in natural secession and reforestation where appropriate, and to encourage the preservation and improvement of habitat for various forms of wildlife; To provide for the preservation and maintenance of open land within the Township to achieve the above-mentioned goals and for active or passive recreational use by the residents