A. These standards should be reviewed at the beginning of the planning or design process and are intended to make applicants aware of the design issues that warrant early consideration. Early informal presentations of preliminary design concepts and dialogue with city staff is encouraged.

B. This chapter is part of the unified development regulations in the Monroe Municipal Code (MMC). Where there is a conflict between this chapter and other provisions of the MMC, the most specific standard or regulation shall apply, as determined by the zoning administrator.

C. Intent and Standard Application. Each section of the design standards contains a list of purpose statements followed by standards. Purpose statements are overarching objectives, whereas the standards act as development regulations. They use words such as “shall,” “must,” “is/are required,” or “is/are prohibited,” and signify required actions. If a standard uses words such as “should” or “is/are recommended,” it signifies that it is meant to be applied with some flexibility. Development projects must comply with all standards unless departures are granted by the zoning administrator.

D. Development Standards.

E. Permit Application and Processing. Design review does not require a separate project permit and shall be conducted as part of the site review permit process per Chapter 22.58 MMC, Site Plan Review.

F. Vested Rights. Approval of design review shall not provide the applicant with vested rights. Subsequent permits shall be subject to the applicable codes and regulations in effect at the time of determination of completeness of the associated permit application.

G. Expiration. A design review approved under this chapter shall automatically expire with the permit initiating the design review, and therefore be declared null and void, subject to the requirements of Table 22.84.060(E): Project Permit Approval Expiration. (Ord. 005/2019 § 10 (Exh. B))