ARC 402: Thesis

Site Study Checklist

1. PHYSICAL FACTORS
2. HISTORICAL / SOCIAL FACTORS
3. REGULATORY FACTORS
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1. PHYSICAL FACTORS
A. Climate
 Wind Direction
 Maximum, minimum, and average velocities
 Special forces (e.g., cyclones, tsunamis)
B. Solar orientation
 Sun angles
 Days of sunlight
 Shading of (or from) adjacent structures, natural features, arid vegetation
C. Temperature
 Ranges of variation (Maximums and minimums)
D. Humidity
 Ranges of variation (Maximums and minimums)
E. Precipitation
F. Topography
 Topographic maps and aerial photos
 Contours and spot elevations
 Slopes: percentage, aspect, orientation
 Visual characteristics
 Potential problem areas during construction: siltation, erosion, etc.
 Analysis of physical features, including major focal and vantage points and
their relationships within, into, and out from the site.

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 ARC 402: Thesis

G. Existing access and circulation

 Vehicular
 Pedestrian
H. Vegetation
I. Existing water bodies
 Location, size, depth, direction of flow
 Water quality: clean, polluted, etc.
 Use: seasonal. year-round
 Variations: expected water levels, tides, wave action
 Coastal features
J. Drainage canals:
 Natural and built
 Pattern and direction
 Surface drainage
 Proximity to floodplains
 Potential areas for impoundments, detention/retention ponds
K. Utilities
 Potable water
 Electricity
 Gas
 Telephone
 Sanitary sewer service
 Storm drainage (surface, subsurface)
 Fire protection
 Waste removal services

L. Immediate Surroundings
 Neighborhood structures
 Shading and solar access
 Noise from streets, emergency services, aircraft, etc.
 Odors

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 ARC 402: Thesis

 Views and vistas

2. HISTORICAL / SOCIAL FACTORS
A. Site History
 Former site uses
 Hazardous dumping
 Landfill
B. Present zoning of site and adjacent property
C. Adjacent (surrounding) land uses
 Present
 Probable effects on the development of this site
D. Location, type, and size of pertinent community services
 Schools and churches
 Shopping centers
 Parks
 Municipal services
 Recreational facilities
 Banks
 Food services
 Health services
 Access to highways, public transportation
E. Social factors
 Demography
 Economic standards
 Population (Fixed and Floating)
 Education level
3. REGULATORY FACTORS

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 ARC 402: Thesis

A. Zoning Codes
 Permitted uses
 Accessory structures
 Minimum site area requirements
 Building height limits
 Setback requirements
 Plot coverage
 Floor area ratio (FAR)
 Open space requirements
 Street parking requirements
 Landscaping requirements
 Drainage requirements

B. Other Codes and Requirements

1. Historic preservation and landmarks
2. Architectural (design) controls
3. Site-related items in building codes
 Parking and access for persons with disabilities
 Service and emergency vehicle access and parking

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