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What is NYC ZR § 74-142?

Quick Answer

This section allows the City Planning Commission to permit electric utility substations in specific districts under certain conditions. The statute outlines criteria to minimize adverse effects on surrounding development and requires compliance with performance standards. Applies to property owners in designated districts seeking to establish electric utility substations.

General informational summary. Not legal advice for your situation. Consult an attorney before acting on any specific matter.

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§ 74-142 Electric utility substations

ZR § 74-142

In all Residence and Commercial Districts, and in M1 Districts in the Special Downtown Jamaica District, the City Planning Commission may permit electric utility substations (including transformers, switches, or auxiliary apparatus) listed under Use Group IV(B), limited in each case to a site of not less than 40,000 square feet nor more than 10 acres, provided that the following findings are made:

(a)that there are serious difficulties in locating such use in a nearby district where it is permitted as-of-right;

(b)that the site for such use is so located as to minimize the adverse effects on the integrity of existing and future development;

(c)that the architectural and landscaping treatment of such use will blend harmoniously with the rest of the area; and

(d)that such use will conform to the performance standards applicable to M1 Districts.

The City Planning Commission may prescribe appropriate conditions and safeguards to minimize adverse effects on the character of the surrounding area, including requirements for soundproofing of electric substations, for the construction of fences, barriers, or other safety devices, for surfacing of all access roads and driveways, for shielding of floodlights or other artificial illumination, or for landscaping or screening.

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