ARC 402: Thesis

Site Study Checklist

1. PHYSICAL FACTORS
2. HISTORICAL / SOCIAL FACTORS
3. REGULATORY FACTORS
.

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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