§ 1002. Visibility Triangle.

1002.1.   Applicability.

In order to provide a clear view of intersecting streets and travel lanes to the motorist, there shall be a triangular area of clear visibility. On every corner lot, at every driveway intersection with streets, and in parking areas, there shall be a visibility triangle clear of any structure, fence, obstruction planting, or parking, unless exempted by Section 1002.2, below. The Manatee County Public Works Standards Manual (Part 3 - Highway and Traffic Standards) contains the detailed specifications for the provision of visibility triangles.

A.

Obstructions. Within that portion of a lot or parcel that lies within the clear visibility triangle, as defined in this Chapter and the Manatee County's Public Works Standards Manual, nothing shall be erected, placed, planted, or allowed to grow in such a manner as to materially obstruct vision between a height of two and one-half (2½) feet to eight (8) feet above the average grade at the centerline of the right-of-way, provided, however, that in case of a conflict, Subsection A, above, shall prevail over this requirement.

B.

Retaining Walls. The requirements of this section shall not be deemed to prohibit any necessary retaining wall.

C.

Trees. Trees may be permitted in the triangle area if the foliage is pruned within the heights noted in Subsection A.

D.

Signs. Streetlights and street name signposts may be permitted if illuminating fixtures or nameplates are not located within the prescribed clear space.

1002.2.   Exemptions.

The following items are exempt from the visibility triangle requirement.

A.

Existing Trees. The trunk of an existing, established tree. However, the branches or foliage shall meet the vision clearance area required in Subsection 1002.1.A.

B.

Posts. A single post or column or similar structure other than signs or sign structures, which is no greater than twelve (12) inches in cross section or diameter.

C.

Fences. Non-opaque fences such as chain link.

D.

Government Signs and Devices. Fire hydrants, public utility poles, street markers, governmental signs, traffic control devices, public bus benches and U.S Postal Service authorized mailboxes are exempt from these requirements. The exemption of governmental signs from the visibility triangle requirement is based upon the function served by governmental signs. However, an engineering study must demonstrate that the signs will meet visibility requirements.

E.

Lots. In RSMH, zones, driveway visibility triangles to individual lots are not required.

F.

Other. Telephone booths, parking areas, bicycle racks, signs and like structures are not exempted from the visibility triangle requirements.

1002.3.   Responsibility.

It shall be the responsibility of the property owner to maintain the visibility triangle horizontal and vertical clearances at all times.

1002.4.   Safety Hazards within the Visibility Triangle.

Any safety hazard violation of the visibility triangle shall be subject to immediate removal, without prior notification to violator, by the Department Director, at the expense of the property owner.