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What is NYC ZR § 107-221?

Quick Answer

This section outlines the conditions under which designated open space may be utilized for active recreational facilities, such as swimming pools and tennis courts. The City Planning Commission must certify compatibility with open space purposes and minimal environmental impact. Applies to property developers and owners planning recreational facilities in designated open spaces.

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

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§ 107-221 Active recreational facilities

ZR § 107-221

Designated open space may be used for active recreational facilities provided that the City Planning Commission certifies that such uses are compatible with the purposes of the open space network and have minimal impact on tree removal, topographic alterations or drainage conditions.

Active recreational facilities may include swimming pools, tennis courts or facilities and equipment normally found in playgrounds, and shall comply with the use regulations of the underlying district.

In the development of active recreational facilities, no individual trees of six-inch caliper or more shall be removed except by special authorization of the Commission in accordance with the provisions of Section 107-65 (Modification of Natural Feature Regulations). Active recreational facilities shall not be allowed within 60 feet of any watercourse in designated open space unless the Commission certifies that a location closer to such watercourse will not adversely affect the natural character of the watercourse or its drainage function. The Commission, where appropriate, shall be guided by the reports from other City agencies involved in land contour work, storm water drainage systems or similar operations.

If the City of New York acquires an easement for public access to any designated open space on which a building has been, is being or could be in the future, constructed in accordance with the provisions of this Chapter, the City's acquisition of an easement shall not affect the qualifications of the designated open space for satisfying lot area requirements, yard requirements, floor area or lot coverage restrictions or open space requirements as provided in Section 107-224 (Qualification of designated open space as lot area for bulk computations) and shall not be deemed to create a non-compliance.

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