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Kingston Subdivision Rules: Page 2

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May 9th 2008

SECTION 4.0 DESIGN STANDARDS

4.1. General

4.1.1. Basic Requirements

The subdivider shall observe all design standards for land subdivision as hereinafter provided. These standards shall be considered minimum standards and shall be varied from or waived, only as provided in Section VI.

4.1.2. Conformance with the Master Plan

4.1.2.1. Any proposed subdivision shall conform to the proposals and intentions of the Kingston Master Plan which includes the Conservation Plan of the Conservation Commission and the Recreation Plan as adopted in whole or in part by the Planning Board, unless substitute proposals may be shown to the satisfaction of the Board to serve better the general area of the subdivision and the Town.

4.1.3. Lot Size and Frontage

4.1.3.1. All lots shall be of such size and dimensions to meet the minimum requirements of the Zoning By-laws.

4.1.4. Access through Another Municipality

4.1.4.1. In case access to a subdivision crosses land in another municipality, the Board may require certification, from appropriate authorities, that such access is in accordance with the Master Plan and subdivision requirements of such municipality and that a legally adequate performance bond has been duly posted or that such access is adequately improved to handle prospective traffic. Lot lines shall be laid out so as not to cross municipal boundary lines. (Amended  November 30, 1998)

4.1.5. Adequate Access from Public Way

4.1.5.1. Where the street system within a subdivision does not connect with or have, in the opinion of the Board, adequate access from a Town, County or State (public) way, the Board may require as a condition of approval of a plan, that such adequate access be provided by the subdivider, and/or that the subdivider make physical improvements to and within such a way of access, in accordance with the provisions of Section 5.0. of these regulations, from the boundary of the subdivision to a Town, County or State way.

4.1.5.2. Where the physical condition or width of a public way from which a subdivision has its access is considered by the Board to be inadequate to carry the traffic expected to be generated by such subdivision, the Board may require the subdivider to dedicate a strip of land for the purpose of widening the abutting public way to a width at least commensurate with that required within the subdivision, and to make physical improvements to and within the subdivision. Any such dedication of land for the purpose of way and any such work performed within such public way shall be made only with permission of the governmental agency having jurisdiction over such way,. and all costs of any such widening or construction shall be borne by the subdivider.

4.2. Streets

4.2.1. Location and Alignment

4.2.1.1. All streets in the subdivision shall be designed so that, in the opinion of the Board, they shall provided safe vehicular travel. Due consideration shall also be given by the subdivider to the attractiveness of the street layout in order to obtain the maximum livability and amenity of the subdivision.

4.2.1.2. Provision satisfactory to the Board shall be made for the proper projection of streets, or for access to adjoining property which is not yet subdivided.

4.2.1.3. Reserve strips prohibiting access to streets or adjoining property shall not be permitted, except where, in the opinion of the Board, such strips shall be in the public interest.

4.2.1.4. Streets shall be continuous, of uniform width, and alignment with existing streets, as far as practicable.

a.) Entry roads to subdivisions with a landscaped median are permitted. Median breaks on such divided roads shall occur at least every 650 feet. While the right of way width shall be continuous, street widths may narrow at the end of landscaped median. Divided roads widths shall not narrow where they intersect streets outside of the subdivision.

b.) Provisions for narrower pavement widths and smaller cul-de-sacs may be made by the Planning Board for developments employing accepted "traffic calming measures." (Amended  November 30, 1998)

4.2.1.5. Streets shall be designed so that existing ways and cartpaths in use or available for use for access to adjoining property are included within the right-of-way.

4.2.1.6. Provisions shall be made for the proper projection of streets, if adjoining property is not subdivided.

4.2.1.7. All curved streets must be designed to permit safe vehicular travel. A minimum two hundred (200) foot length tangent shall be provided between the PT of one curve and the PC of any following curve.

4.2.2. Right-of-Way Width and Street Design Standards

4.2.2. 1. On all classification of streets, the following characteristics shall be the minimum acceptable. Provisions for narrower pavement widths and smaller cul-de-sacs may be made by the Planning Board for developments employing accepted "traffic calming measures."

          **using e max = 0.04

(Amended  November 30, 1998)

          * clear sight distance at 4.5 ft. above pavement

          + measured at centerline of pavement

          ft. = feet

(Amended  November 30, 1998)

4.2.2.2. When a minor street will provide the only access for lots fronting on a length in excess of six hundred and fifty (650) feet or where, on a major street, potential volume or safety warrants, in the opinion of the Planning Board, the Board may require a greater right-of-way than that specified above and may require construction of a divided roadway.

4.2.3. Street Jogs

4.2.3.1. Streets entering opposite sides of another street shall be laid out either directly opposite each other or with a minimum offset of one hundred and fifty (150) feet between their centerlines. Provisions for street jogs offset less than 150 feet may be made by the Planning Board for developments employing accepted "traffic calming measures" where sidewalks and multi use paths are incorporated into the development as a part of a town wide bicycle and pedestrian path system. (Amended  November 30, 1998)

4.2.4. Intersection

4.2.4.1.Rights-of-way shall be laid out so as to intersect as nearly as possible at right angles. No right-of-way shall intersect any other right-of-way at less than sixty (60) degrees. The vertical curvature of the road shall not exceed grade of three (3) percent for a minimum distance of one hundred (100) feet from the intersection.

4.2.4.2. Property lines at right-of-way intersections shall be cut back to provide for a curb radius on the roadway of not less than thirty (30) feet, except where the angle of intersection varies more than ten degrees from a right angle, in which case the radii of the curve connecting the acute angle may be less and the opposite radius must be correspondingly greater.

4.2.4.3. When the intersection of two (2) streets varies more than ten (10) degrees from a right angle, the radius of the curve at the obtuse angle may be less, and at the acute angle may be greater, than thirty (30) feet to the extent approved or required by the Planning Board.

4.2.4.4. Streets shall be laid out so as to intersect at intervals in a range of six hundred (600) feet to twelve hundred (1200) feet. in length, unless otherwise specified by the Planning Board. In special instances, the Planning Board may approve an easement for a future street, in lieu of actual construction of a cross street.

4.2.4.5. Sight distances at intersection shall be according to the American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials, 1990 publication, "A Policy on Geometric Design of Highways and Streets".

4.2.5. Dead-end Streets

4.2.5.1. For the purposes of this section, any proposed street which intersects solely with a dead-end street shall be deemed to be an extension of the dead-end street. Dead-end streets and their extensions, if any, shall not be longer than six hundred and fifty (650) feet. A dead-end street shall not be less in length than one and one-half (1 1/2) times the frontage required in the District in which it is located. Dead-end streets shall be measured from the right-of-way line of the intersecting street. (Amended  February 13, 1995)

4.2.5.2. Dead-end street shall be provided at the closed end with a turn-around having an outside roadway diameter of a least one hundred and ten (110) feet, and a property fine diameter of at least of at least one hundred and twenty (120) feet unless otherwise specified by the Planning Board. The Planning Board may, at its option, require a minimum outside roadway diameter of one hundred forty (140) feet, a property line diameter of one hundred sixty (160) feet. If the dead-end street is not intended to connect with another street at some future point in time, Where a future street is projected beyond the circle, the circle shall be designed in relation to such extension. The turn-around or stub shall be located at the property line of the subdivision, unless the Planning Board approves otherwise. Provisions for smaller cul-de-sacs may be made by the Planning Board for developments employing accepted "traffic calming measures." (Amended  November 30, 1998)

4.2.5.3. The Board may require a roadway easement from the end of the dead-end street to adjacent property. If a dead-end street is subsequently extended beyond the required turn-around, any easement appurtenant to a lot not abutting the turn-around, except that portion of the turn-around included in said extension shall terminate upon the approval and recording of a certificate by the Planning Board of the construction of said extension, at which time additional land used for the circle may be relinquished to the adjacent property.

4.2.6. Street Names

4.2.6.1. To provide names in keeping with the character of the Town, street names shall be subject to the approval of the Planning Board after consultation with the Fire Chief and the E911 Committee. Proposed street names shall not duplicate nor bear phonetic resemblance to the name of existing public ways, paper streets, or any other way qualified to afford frontage under Section 81-L of Chapter G.L. A proposed street which is in alignment with an existing street shall bear the same name as the existing street.

4.3. Driveways and Curb Cuts

4.3.1. Driveways in subdivisions containing one (1) and/or two (2) family dwellings only shall be at least ten (10) feet wide and have a curb return at the roadway of two (2) feet in radius, and shall have an opening of at least sixteen (16) feet at the gutter line.

4.3.2. Driveways for all other residential uses and for non-residential uses shall be at least sixteen (16) feet wide and have a curb return at the roadway of two (2) feet in radius, and shall have an opening of at least twenty (20) feet at the gutter line.

4.3.3. Where rolled curbs or no curbs exist, the driveway flare should have a three (3) foot radius. Driveway cuts shall not be within sixty five (65) feet of the intersection of the center line of intersecting streets.

4.3.4. If driveways slope from the edge of the street right-of-way to the edge of the pavement, there shall be a grade of not less than one (1) percent but not more than eight (8) percent, but the grade between the sidewalk and the right-of-way shall be only as shown on the cross-sections, Schedules B and C.

4.3.5. At every intersection, ramps three (3) feet wide shall be provided, adjacent to the granite curb sections          required in Section 5.6. 1.

4.4. Easements

4.4.1. Wherever possible, easements shall be centered along side or rear lot lines. All easements shall be marked with concrete bounds. (Amended  November 30, 1998)

4.4.2. Where. utilities cross lots or are centered on rear or side lot lines, easements shall be provided of a width of at least twenty (20) feet.

4.4.3. Where a subdivision is traversed by a water course, drainage way, channel or stream, the Planning Board may require a storm water easement or drainage right-of-way of adequate width and proper side slope to conform substantially to the lines of such water course, drainage way, channel or stream and to provide for construction or other necessary purposes. In no case shall the width be less than twenty (20) feet or the side slope be steeper than two (2) horizontal to one (1) vertical. The boundaries shall not be closer than five (5) feet horizontally from the annual high water line. Parallel streets or pedestrian ways and/or appropriate access may be required in connection therewith. Streams and watercourses shall remain open except at street crossings.

4.4.4. Access easements to park and conservation land shall be provided, if required by the Planning Board, and shall be at least twenty (20) feet wide.

4.4.5. Wherever possible easements along rear lot lines shall be continuous to the street at the end of the block to connect with the adjoining blocks in the shortest direct line.

4.4.6. Where the applicant/developer provides trails or where trails traverse the land shown on the plan, an easement at least fifteen (15) feet wide shall be shown, which may be limited to passage on foot or horseback. Where the present location of the trails interferes with logical development of the land, adjustments shall be made to relocate the trail or to connect the trail to a street right-of-way, another trail or suitable open space.

4.4.7. The Planning Board may require that other areas be included within a conservation restriction.

4.4.8. In any subdivision, the developer may grant to the Town a conservation restriction over any portion of the subdivision providing the area subject to the restriction is part of the Conservation or Recreation Plan of the Town.

4.4.9. Upon definitive plan approval, all easements shown on the plan shall become part of the approved plan. (Amended January 29, 1996) The Planning Board agent will record all easements and proof of the recording will be required before final approval and endorsement of subdivision plan. (Amended November 30, 1998)

4.5. Open Space

4.5.1. Before approval of a plan, the Planning Board may also, in proper cases, require the plan to show a park or parks, suitably located for playground or recreation purposes or for providing light and air. The park or parks shall not be unreasonable in area in relation to the land being subdivided and to the prospective uses of such land. The Planning Board may, by appropriate endorsement on the plan, require that no building be. erected upon such park or parks without its approval for a period of three (3) years. Each area reserved "for such purpose shall be of suitable area, dimensions, topography and natural character for the purposes of a park and/or playground. The area or areas shall be so located as to serve adequately all parts of the subdivision as approved by the Planning Board. The Planning Board may require that the area or areas reserved shall be located and laid out so as to be used in conjunction with similar areas of adjoining subdivisions or of probable subdivisions. Unless otherwise specifically approved by the Planning Board, the total amount of area to be reserved for park and/or playground purposes shall be no less than ten (10) percent of the gross area of the subdivision. Any land 'so reserved shall be graded to dispose properly of surface water and shall be left in condition for the purpose intended, as required by the Planning Board.

4.5.2. Any open space park or playground shall provide at least fifty (50) feet of continuous frontage on a street.

4.5.3. Such parks and/or playgrounds may be required to have maintenance provided for by covenants and agreements acceptable to the Board, until public acquisition is accomplished by the community.

4.5.4. Pedestrian ways, bikeways, or bridle paths of not less than fifteen (15) feet in width may be requested where deemed desirable to provide circulation or access from each of the surrounding streets to schools, playgrounds, parks, shops, transportation, open space and/or community facilities, as provided in Section 4.10.

4.5.5. The Town shall have the right to acquire ownership of same by gift or as provided in Section 81-Q of Chapter 41 of the General Laws.

4.6. Protection of Natural Features

4.6.1. Due regard shall be shown for all natural features, such as large trees, wooded areas, water courses, scenic points, historic spots, and similar community assets, which, if preserved, will add attractiveness and value to the subdivision. Outside of street right-of-ways, no trees over a fifteen (15) inch caliper measured at four (4) feet above the existing grade shall be removed or have the grade level surrounding the trunk altered by more than six (6) inches without approval of the Planning Board.

4.7. Lot Drainage

4.7.1. Lots shall be prepared and graded in such a manner that development of one shall not cause detrimental drainage on another, if provision is necessary to carry drainage to or across a lot, an easement or drainage right-of-way of adequate width and proper side slope shall be provided. Storm drainage shall be designed in accordance with the specifications of the Planning Board. Where required by the Planning Board or the Board of Health, the Applicant shall furnish evidence as to any lot or lots to either Board that adequate provision has been made for the proper drainage of surface and underground waters from such lot or lots.

4.8. Fire Hydrants

4.8.1. Fire Hydrants shall be provided every rive hundred (500) running feet on one side of each street unless an alternate distance is approved in writing by the Fire Department. Fire hydrants shall be placed so that the Fire Department hose connections are at least sixteen (16) inches above the finished grade.

All fire hydrants shall be painted "fire hydrant red" and all caps and the top section shall be painted yellow.

For identification purposes, either a metal post, painted yellow twelve (12) inches from the top the remainder red, shall be placed vertically in a concrete base to achieve a height of sixty (60) inches above said finished grade, or, a yellow metal flag approximately six (6) inches square affixed to a red metal shaft and affixed to a hydrant hose connection so that the top of the flag is sixty (60) inches above said finished grade, shall be installed. (Amended  November 30, 1998)

4.9. Sidewalks, Grass Plots, Trees, Curbs and Berms

4.9.1. Sidewalks shall be provided on one side of each street for the full length of major streets. Sidewalks shall be provided in the vicinity of pedestrian generators on minor and secondary streets as required by the Planning Board and in any area determined by the Planning Board to be a high density area. Minimum widths of the sidewalks shall be four (4) feet. Sidewalks shall be designed with due regard for existing trees, the natural environment and the character of the neighborhood. Sidewalks shall have ramp access at intersection. Each driveway shall be provided with a minimum 10' wide apron from the edge of the road pavement to the edge of the road layout. (added 10/ 17/94) Provision of sidewalks may be waived by the Board if multi use paths are incorporated into the development as a part of a town wide bicycle and pedestrian path system. (Amended  November 30, 1998)

4.9.2. See Cross Sections in Schedules B and C.

4.9.2.1. Sidewalks, grass plots, trees, curbs and berms shall be shown in accordance with these Cross Sections and the requirements of Section 5.0.

4.10. Utilities

4.10.1. Required utilities include water, sewer, storm drainage, telephone, electricity, gas, street lights, fire alarm systems and. cable TV unless otherwise specified by the Planning Board. The Applicant shall submit evidence of complete financial arrangements with private utility companies prior to approval.

4.10.1.1. All utilities shall be placed underground at the time of initial construction. The Planning Board may permit transformers, switches and other such equipment to be placed on the ground in approved locations, screened from view with evergreen shrubbery.

4.10.1.2. Where adjacent property is not subdivided or where all the property of the Applicant is not being subdivided at the same time, provision shall be made for the extension of the utility system by continuing the mains the full length of streets and to the exterior limits of the subdivision, at such grade and size as will, in the opinion of the Planning Board, permit their proper extension at the later date.

4.10.1.3. Adequate disposal of surface and sub-surface water shall be provided on both sides of the roadway at intervals not to exceed three hundred (300) feet, unless otherwise approved by the Planning Board and at such other places as deemed necessary by the Planning Board to assure adequate drainage of all low points and to provide proper run-off of storm water. In no instances shall catch basins be located along a driveway cut.

4.10.2. Sewerage

4.10.2.1. Each subdivision shall, where a public sewerage system is located within two thousand (2000) feet of the subdivision, be connected to the public sewerage system. Unless otherwise approved by the Sewer Commission, Planning Board and Board of Health. (Amended December 10, 2001)

4.10.2.2. If a public sewerage system is planned to be installed within two thousand (2000) feet of any subdivision within three (3) years of the date of submission of the Definitive Plan as indicated by prior Town Meeting action, the sewer system shall be installed by the developer in the street and to every lot which can be connected later to the public sewerage system. (Amended December 10, 2001)

4.10.2.3. If public sewerage connections are not required according to the above, or if the planned public sewerage system has not yet been installed to within the required distance of the proposed subdivision, private on-lot or communal sewerage systems, as approved by the Kingston Board of Health, shall be installed. The on lot facility shall be located in the front yard wherever practicable to facilitate connections to an eventual public sewerage system.

4.10.2.4. Manholes shall be located at every change in grade or horizontal alignment but not more than three hundred (300) feet apart.

4.10.2.5. Sewerage, where sewerage systems are required, pipes and related equipment such as grinder pumps, pumping stations shall be installed within the subdivision as necessary to provide all lots on each street with adequate sewerage as approved by the Sewer Department. (Amended December 10, 2001)

4.10.2.6. Small wastewater treatment facilities and sewage pumping stations shall be in accordance with Kingston's Regulations for small Wastewater Treatment Facilities regulations of the Sewer Department. (Amended December 10, 2001)

4.10.3. Water

4.10.3.1. All lots approved by the Planning Board through the Definitive Subdivision Plan process shall conform to the requirements of the Water Department Rules and Regulations. (Amended January 29, 1996)

4.10.3.2. Water, where water systems are required, pipes and related equipment such as hydrants and main shutoff valves, shall be installed within the subdivision as necessary to provide all lots on each street with adequate water supply for domestic use as approved by the Water Department and for fire protection use, as approved by the Fire Department.

4.10.3.3. All house connections shall be installed in accordance with the requirements of the Water Department.

4.10.3.4. If the Planning Board and Board of Health approves a private well or private water system, the requirements of the Board of Health shall govern the design of the well or system.

4.10.3.5. The water system shall be designed so as to minimize infiltration.

4.10.3.6. All proposed water systems/main extensions shall be looped whenever the Kingston Water Commissioners indicate that this is feasible and desirable. (Amended January 29, 1996)

4.10.4. Storm Drainage

4.10.4.1. A complete system of drainage shall be constructed in a manner satisfactory to the Planning Board and in conformance to the Commonwealth of Massachusetts Highway Department, formerly the Department of Public Works, standard specifications and provide adequate control of surface and subsurface water, information from the subdivision and adjacent land. Pipe size, location and number of catch basins, manholes, headwalls, and other appurtenances shall be in accordance with the regulations of the Board. Drainage shall be designed to:

a.) Permit unimpeded flow of all natural water courses.

b.) Insure adequate drainage of all low points along streets.

c.) Intercept excessive ground water in the subsoil along the streets.

d.) Intercept storm water runoff along streets at intervals reasonably related to the extent and grade of the area drained.

4.10.4.2. Catch basins with three (3) foot sumps shall be required on both sides of the roadway on continuous grades at intervals of not more than three hundred (300) feet; at all low points in the grade and near the corners of the roadway at intersecting streets. Not more than two (2) catch basins shall be connected together before entering a manhole. Manholes shall be constructed at the end of each line, catch basin connections, at changes in grade, size and alignment, and shall not exceed a spacing of three hundred (300) feet, and have inverts of sewer bricks. All catch basin grates shall be bicycle safe. (Amended  March 11, 1996)

4.10.4.3. All drain pipes shall be laid in a straight line and grade. At every change in direction or grade a manhole shall be provided. Drains shall be laid with open bottoms joints in a three quarter (3/4) inch crushed stone cradle.

4.10.4.4. Proper connections shall be made with the existing public drainage system. Where adjacent property is not subdivided, provision shall be made for extension of the system by continuing appropriate drains to the exterior boundaries of the subdivision, at such size and grade as will allow for their proper projection.

4.10.4.5. Storm drainage systems shall be designed on the basis of a storm occurrence once in twenty-five (25) years, and the resulting runoff shall be calculated by the Runoff Curve Number (CN) method as contained in TR-55.

4.10.4.6. All drainage pipes shall be reinforced concrete conforming to A.S.T.M. directing C-76, Class 3 pipe, or such high class as may be required by depth of trench, and shall be at least twelve (12) inches in diameter and shall be laid to a slope which will maintain a velocity of three (3) feet per second when flowing full using N=.0 15.

At least three (3) feet of cover will be required over all drains unless otherwise specified or approved by the Board.

4.10.4.7. Drainage rights which are appropriate, sufficient and necessary, in the acquiring of the bounds shall be secured for the Town of Kingston. Reinforced concrete bounds of the same dimensions as for granite bounds shall be installed at angle points on all easements to the Town of Kingston.

4.10.4.8. Drains and catch basins shall not be backfilled until inspected.

4.10.4.9. Provisions shall be made to collect and remove silt from the drainage system during the construction period.

4.10.4.10. The Board may also require provision for subsoil drains, along or near the edge of the travelled way in addition to the trunk line system, wherever, in its opinion, ground water conditions in the subsoil warrant such drains.

4.10.4.11. In no instance shall catch basins be located at driveway entrances.

4.10.4.12. Cross culverts and their appurtenances shall be designed to accommodate a storm of fifty (50) year frequency.

4.11. Bikeways, Walkways and Trails

4.11.1. Public bikeways, pedestrian walkways or trails may be required by the Planning Board to provide circulation or access to schools, playgrounds, parks, shopping, transportation, open space and/or community facilities or for such other reason as the Board may determine. These may or may not be part of normal sidewalk provisions, but they shall not be a part of any lot in the subdivision. Bikeways and walkways shall conform to the following standards:

4.11.1.1. Minimum right-of-way width: Fifteen (15) feet

4.11.1.2. Minimum pavement width for bikeways and walkways: Eight (8) feet for bikeways and four (4) feet for walkways.

4.11.1.3. Maximum gradient: Five (5) percent for segments less than one-hundred (100) feet in length, three (3) percent elsewhere.

4.11.1.4. Minimum center line radius: Twenty five (25) feet

4.12. Common Driveways

4.12.1. Common driveways as permitted by Town Bylaw, and all drives serving more than two (2) dwelling units, if permitted by a variance issued by the Zoning Board of Appeals, shall meet the following standards:

4.12.1.1. Minimum Width: Eighteen (18) feet for residential use; Twenty four (24) feet for all other uses

4.12.1.2. Maximum Grade: Nine (9) percent

4.12.1.3. Maximum Length: Two hundred and fifty (250) feet

4.12.1.4. Curb Cut: Not nearer than sixty five (65) feet from the centerline intersections of any right-of-ways.

4.12.1.5. In addition, the design shall, in the opinion of the Planning Board, assure adequate safety for emergency vehicles and shall provide for adequate drainage of surface waters.

4.12.1.6. All requirements of 5.12. also must be met.

4.13. Retention and Detention Ponds

4.13.1. Where a retention or detention pond is shown on the plan, it shall be part of one (1) or more lots and shall be governed by an easement available to the Town for the purposes of maintenance and also by an easement available to the Town for access for such maintenance.

4.13.2. Retention and detention basin as well as all stormwater management shall conform to Stormwater Management Volumes I and II prepared by MA Department of Environmental Protection and MA Office of Coastal Zone Management. Copies of text available from State Bookstore (617) 727-2834, can be downloaded at http:\\www.state.ma.us\dep\brp\ww\wwpubs.htm#storm and are available for review in the Planning Department, Building Department, Conservation Commission Office or Town Clerk's Office. (Amended  November 30, 1998) 

SECTION 5.0. REQUIRED IMPROVEMENTS FOR AN APPROVED SUBDIVISION

5.1. General

5.1.1. The subdivider shall install all of the improvements itemized herein unless waived in writing by the Board. All work done under this section shall be done under the direction of the Planning Board. No aforementioned bond or covenant shall be released until full approval in writing of all work done under this section is received by the Planning Board Agent. The following minimum specifications shall govern the installation of all roadways, utilities and other improvements in all subdivisions as noted on Typical Cross Section, designated on the Definitive Plan and otherwise determined by the Planning Board.

5.1.2. No street or way through private property shall be accepted by Town unless the same be previously constructed and completed in accordance with the Standard Cross Section (See Schedules B,C), Street Layout Plan, Profile and the following specifications. Prior to the commencement of the construction phase of development a pre-construction conference shall be held between the Planning Board and/or their Agent and the Developer and/or his Agent to be sure that all the requirements herein are understood and will be met. (Amended  November 30, 1998)

5.1.3. Unless otherwise specified, all the work and the materials used in the work to be done shall conform to the requirements of the "Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Public Works, Standard Specifications for Highways and Bridges, 1988 Edition as amended, hereinafter referred to as the Standard Specifications, as amended and the Special Provisions included hereinafter. Appropriate illustrations are found in "Commonwealth of Massachusetts, Department of Public Works, Construction Standards, 1977 as amended".

5.1.4. Supplementing the aforesaid Standard Specifications, certain specifications or special provisions shall apply particularly to the work to be done hereunder. References in the following specifications, unless otherwise stated, are to the aforesaid Standard Specifications, amendments or addenda. These specifications and special provisions shall take precedence and shall govern when they are stricter.

5.1.5. To facilitate reference, each paragraph in these specifications is noted with the paragraph number of the particular section as contained in the Standard Specifications.

5.1.6. Wherever in the Standard Specifications or other contractual documents, the following terms, or pronouns in place of them, are used, the intent and meaning shall be interpreted by substitution as follows:

• "Commonwealth" Town of Kingston
• "Department" Highway Department and Board of Selectmen of Kingston
• "Engineer" The Planning Board of the Town of Kingston acting directly or through an authorized representative; such representative acting within the scope of the particular duties entrusted to him.

5.1.7. The extent of work required shall be as shown upon approved plans, and in compliance with the Standard Cross Section Plans. Stakes shall be set which will indicate the exact amount of cut or fill.

5.1.7.1. Offset stakes shall be set under the direction of a Registered Land Surveyor at fifty (50) foot intervals and at each sewerage and drainage structure and at each hydrant to indicate the location and the exact amount of cut, fill or grade.

5.1.7.2. Improvements to minimize adverse environmental impact, if required, shall be installed in accordance with all details as shown on the approved definitive plan and all possible measures shall be taken during construction to minimize dust and erosion.

5.1.7.3. No earth shall be removed from the area shown on a definitive plan except in accordance with the approved plan and in accordance with an approved Earth Removal Permit where required.

5.1.8. As each construction operation is completed, it shall be inspected and approved by the proper Town authority prior to starting working on the succeeding operation.

5.1.9. As-Built Plans

5.1.9.1. At the time the street or way or portion thereof is ready for acceptance and to facilitate acceptance by the Town of Kingston, the developer shall have prepared and certified by a Registered Land Surveyor a "Plan of Acceptance" drawn with India ink on tracing cloth, mylar or similar substance, size eighteen (18) by twenty-four (24) inches or twenty-four (24) by thirty-six (36) inches, showing widths, lengths, bearings of all boundary lines of streets and easements and radii, tangents and central angles of all curves in street lines. It shall show that all stone bounds have been set.

5.1.9.2. A blank space, four (4) by eight (8) inches, shall be provided on the lower right hand corner of the plan for a title block to be filled in by the developer. The surveyor shall place a certification on the plan stating "The street (or way or portion thereof) is laid out and the bounds have been set as shown on this plan" and shall be dated, signed and the surveyor's stamp affixed thereon. One (1) copy of the plan shall be submitted to the Board of Selectmen and one (1) copy to the Planning Board.

5.1.9.3. The developer shall have the original plans and profiles that were submitted to the Planning Board and that are on file in the Planning Board office corrected and certified by his engineer to show the actual as built locations and grades of all utilities and roadway profiles and any changes authorized by the Planning Board.

5.2. Street and Roadway

5.2.1. The roadway shall be graded and prepared for pavement as follows:

5.2.1.1. 101 Clearing and grubbing of the entire area of such street or way shall be performed to remove all trees not intended for preservation, stumps, brush, roots, rocks or boulders and like material which may exist upon the surface; except that trees of aesthetic value and over four (4) inch caliper may be allowed to remain provided that they are located at least five (5) feet from the proposed side line of the finished roadway and are approved by the Tree Warden and the Planning Board.

5.2.1.2. 120 Roadway earth excavation shall remove all materials encountered down to the true surface of the subgrade, or to suitable material in areas where unsuitable material exists, in preparation for foundation of roadway, sidewalks, driveways and berms. Approved material obtained from the excavation may be used in fills as required if, in the opinion of the Planning Board, they are suitable.

5.2.1.3. 150 When, in the opinion of the Planning Board, suitable material is not available within the limits of the highway location to form the subgrade or sub-base, the contractor shall obtain such additional material from other sources in accordance with this section and as May be approved by the Planning Board.

5.2.1.4. 170 The subgrade surface, sixteen (16) inches below the finished surface grade in minor and secondary streets, and eighteen (18) inches below the finished surface grade in major streets in residential subdivisions and in all streets in non-residential subdivisions, shall be prepared true to the lines, grades and cross sections given and properly rolled. All soft or spongy material below the subgrade surface shall be removed to a depth determined by the Planning Board and the space thus made shall be filled with special gravel borrow containing no stones over six (6) inches in their largest diameter.

5.2.1.5. 401 Gravel sub-base or foundation containing no stones having any dimensions greater than six (6) inches shall be spread in two (2) equal layers on the surface of the subgrade to a minimum depth of twelve (12) inches in conformity with requirements of Section M 1.02.0. The first six (6) inches of gravel borrow shall be Type A as specified in the Standard Specifications and the top six (6) inches shall be Type B as specified in the Standard Specifications. To assure compliance with the Standard Specifications, the Planning Board may authorize, at the applicant's expense, a testing of the gravel by an independent testing company. Each layer shall be thoroughly watered, rolled and compacted true to line and grade. Any depressions that appear during and after the rolling shall be filled with additional gravel and re-rolled until the surface is true.

5.2.1.6. 401.60 Final grading, rolling and finishing including the shaping, trimming, rolling and finishing of the surface of the sub-base prior to application of gravel for surfacing of the roadway and base courses for walks or loam for berms shall be in accordance with this section as directed by the Planning Board.

a.) If the Planning Board determines that enough time has elapsed to make it desirable, a tack coat meeting their specifications shall be applied prior to the application of the second layer of gravel.

b.) At the conclusion of this step the roadway shall be staked in all locations where permanent monuments are to be installed as provided in Section 5.9.

5.2.2. Roadways shall be constructed for the full length of all streets within the subdivision and shall have the same curb radius required in Section 4.2.4.2. The center line of all roadways shall coincide with the centerline of the street right of way unless a deviation is approved by the Planning Board. The minimum and maximum widths of roadways shall be as follows:

All pavement width shall be as defined above but are subject to alteration by the Planning Board at its option. Provisions for narrower pavement widths and smaller cul-de-sacs may be made by the Planning Board for developments employing accepted "traffic calming measures." Pavement width shall be measured from within the inside edge of the curb or berm. (Amended  November 30, 1998)

5.2.3. 460 The base and wearing surfaces of roadways shall be of Class I Bituminous Concrete Pavement, Type I-1,.unless otherwise approved or required by the Highway Department. The Type I-1 pavement shall be composed of mineral aggregate, mineral filler and bituminous material, plant mixed and laid hot. The pavement shall be constructed in conformity with lines, grades and typical cross-section shown on plans. Material and construction methods shall conform to all other requirements of Section 460 of the Standards Specifications except that no such construction shall be undertaken before March 30th of any year nor after November 1st of any year without written permission of the Planning Board Agent. The developer shall employ a qualified engineering company for services during the batching and placement of bituminous concrete paving. The engineer shall submit a 'Report of Bituminous Concrete Plan Inspection! providing Plant Information, Mix Information, and Extraction Results by % (percent) passing by weight. Thickness of Pavement, Mixture Field Specimens (ASTM D-3549) shall be provided for every thousand (1,000) lineal feet of road or portion thereof at locations directed by the engineer. Certified results of these inspections and test shall be submitted to the Kingston Highway Department and Planning Board Engineer.

5.2.3.1. Pavement on all streets shall be laid to a finished depth of four (4) inches laid in two (2) courses; the base course shall be two and one half (2-1/2) inches, and the top course shall be one and one half (1-1/2) inches.

5.2.3.2. Greater pavement thickness shall be required by the Board on roadways subject to heavy traffic such as in non-residential subdivisions or in selected major streets of residential subdivisions.

5.2.4. Embankments outside, within or adjoining the right-of-way shall be evenly graded and pitched at a slope of not greater than two (2) horizontal to one (1) vertical in fill. Where cuts are made in ledge, other slopes may be determined with the approval of the Planning Board. Where terrain necessitates greater slopes, retaining walls, terracing, fencing, or rip-rap may be used either alone or in combination to provide safety and freedom from maintenance, but must be done in accordance with plans filed with and approved by the Planning Board. Whenever embankments are built in such a way as to require approval by the Planning Board, the developer must furnish to the Town duly recorded access easements free of encumbrances for maintenance of the slopes, terraces or retaining walls. All such slopes shall be grassed in accordance with the specifications for the area between the roadway and sidewalk or roadway and boundary of the right-of-way .

5.2.5. Loam shall be placed on all shoulders, embankments and other areas disturbed by the construction to a depth of four (4) inches. Grass conforming to Section M 6.03.0 of the Standard Specifications shall be placed at the rate. of four (4) pounds per one thousand (1000) square feet, or such other ground cover as the Planning Board may approve.

5.2.6. Granite curbing shall be installed in all subdivisions. (Amended  January 29, 1996)

5.3. Utilities

5.3.1. Installation and materials unless otherwise specified shall conform to the standards of the Town of Kingston.

5.3.1.1. 140 Excavation for structures, including foundations for drains, sewers and water pipes, wells and other structures shall be made to the depth as indicated on the Definitive Plan or established by the Planning Board as appropriate. Rock excavation designated as Class B, encountered in trench excavation, shall be removed as directed by the Planning Board.

5.3.1.2. 200, 230- 301. All drain, sewer, gas and water pipes, underground utilities and other structures, including laterals which shall be installed from the right-of-way line of each lot, shall be installed upon the completion of roadway subgrade and before the placing of the sub-base, gravel base course, sidewalks or pavement. If the pavement is removed, excavated or damaged, the trench shall be repaired in accordance with the Town of Kingston Rules and Specifications Regulating Street Excavations.

5.3.1.3. Where adjacent property is not subdivided or where all the property of the applicant is not being subdivided at the same time, provision shall be made for the extension of the utility system by continuing the mains the fall length of streets and to the exterior limits of the subdivision, at such grade and size which will, in the opinion of the Planning Board, permit their proper extension at a later date.

5.3.2. Water

5.3.2.1. Public water mains and related facilities shall be installed to the standards of the Kingston Water Department. Hydrants shall be located as specified in Section 4.8.

5.3.2.2. Each hydrant shall be served directly from the water main through a six (6) inch lateral connection. It shall be gated with a five (5) inch bottom valve and shall have two (2) two and one half (2-1/2) inch hose outlets and one five (5) inch pump outlet. Water main valves shall be located in such number and locations that lines by individual block may be isolated for maintenance purposes.

5.3.2.3. Where a public water system is located within four hundred (400) feet of the subdivision, the subdivider may connect to the public water system. Where a public water system is not located within four hundred (400) feet of the subdivision, the subdivider may install a private on-lot water system.

5.3.2.4. Private on-lot water systems shall be located a minimum of fifty (50) feet from a septic tank, one hundred (100) feet from a leaching field, seepage pit and cesspool, ten (10) feet from durably constructed building sewer, and one hundred (100) feet from a privy. Such systems shall be constructed in accordance with Massachusetts Department of Public Health and Kingston Board of Health regulations.

5.3.2.5. Community-type systems or the joint use of wells shall be subject to the standards of the Massachusetts Department of Public Health and acceptance by the Kingston Board of Health.

5.3.3. Sewerage

5.3.3.1. Where public sewers are required, they shall be designed according to professional engineering practices in accordance with the requirements and the standards of the Kingston Sewer Department. (Adopted December 10, 2001)

5.3.3.2. On-site sewage disposal facilities shall be installed and constructed in conformity with the rules, regulations and requirements of the Board of Health. On-site septic tanks and leaching fields may be located in either the front or rear yard of the building (s) served, with the front yard preferred. Due consideration should be given to surface and subsurface soil conditions, drainage and topography in the location of such on-site facilities, and in no instance can any portion of the sewage disposal facilities be located closer than ten (10) feet to a property line.

5.3.4. Drainage

5.3.4.1. 200, 220, 230 Adequate disposal of surface and sub-surface water shall be provided and pipes, manholes and catch basins shall be provided according to the sizes and depths as indicated on the plans and in conformity with the requirements of Sections 200, 220, 230 of the Standard Specifications and shall be built on both sides of the roadway at intervals not to exceed three hundred (300) feet unless otherwise approved by the Planning Board, and at such other places as deemed necessary by the Planning Board to assure an unimpeded flow of all natural watercourses, to assure adequate drainage of all low points and to provide proper runoff of storm water. In no instances shall catch basins be located along a driveway cut. The standard depth of catch basins shall be three (3)-feet below the invert of lowest drain. Manholes shall be constructed to the required depth at each junction point and as shown on the plan. Pipe culvert and pipe drains shall be in conformity with the requirements of Section 230 for installation of pipes.

5.3.4.2. Reinforced concrete pipe (used on all cross drains under pavements) shall be installed according to the size as shown on the plans. No backfilling of pipes shall be done until the installation has been inspected by the Planning Board Agent. All drainage trenches except cross drains shall be filled with clean gravel borrow in accordance with specification 760. All cross drain trenches shall be backfilled with selected material satisfactory to the Planning Board Agent.

5.3.4.3. The size of pipe shall be in accordance with the approved Definitive Plan and in any case shall not be less than twelve (12) inches in diameter. Pipe for the construction of culverts and drains shall be reinforced concrete except where such culverts or drains pass under a roadway or driveway in which case they shall be reinforced concrete (extra strength). All pipes shall be laid true to line and grade as shown on the Plan. Each section of pipe shall have a full, firm bearing throughout its length. All joints shall be made of Portland Cement Mortar unless otherwise directed. Minimum covering of all pipe shall be no less than thirty-six (36) inches.

5.3.4.4. Sizes and slopes of drains shall satisfy the "Rational Formula" where:

          Q= ACi

          Q = peak discharge of the watershed in cfs due to a twenty-five (25) year storm

          A = area of watershed in acres

          C = co-efficient of runoff

          i = rainfall intensity in inches per hour for a twenty-five (25) year storm

In no case shall a drainage line of less than twelve (12) inch diameter be used. All drains must be sloped to provide for a minimum velocity of two and one-half (2-1/2') feet per second for self-cleaning purposes. The maximum design velocity shall be fifteen (15) feet per second.

5.3.4.5. Catch Basins and Man-holes

          (1)      Location

                   Catch basins located in pavements shall be located so that the greatest distance which water will have to flow over the surface shall not be over three hundred and fifty (350) feet.

          (2)      Materials Specifications

                   a) Cement brick masonry or concrete block masonry, machine-made solid segments not less than eight (8) inches in width and precast concrete structures.

b) Man-hole frames - twenty-six (26) inches in diameter, and cover (marked "D" for drains and "E" for electric - two hundred (200) pounds minimum weight.

                   c) Square catch basin frames - twenty-four (24) inches square; and grates - two hundred (200) pounds minimum weight.

                   Catch basin flanges in "c" above shall have three flanges only at curb inlets.

          (3)      Construction Specifications

                   Catch basins and man-holes shall not be less than four (4) feet in inside diameter at a point two and one-half (2-1/2) feet below the bottom of the frame. Catch basins shall not be less than three (3) feet in depth measuring from the invert of the outlet pipe. Brick masonry inverts shall be constructed for all man-holes. The base of these structures shall consist of precast concrete pies. A twelve (12) inch weep hole shall be left in the base of the catch basins.. The walls of these structures shall not be less than six (6) inches in thickness, shall consist of cement brick concrete block masonry or precast concrete units and shall be laid in mortar composed of one (1) part Portland Cement and two (2) parts sand and sufficient water to form a workable mixture. Backfill shall not be applied until after inspection. Outside walls shall be thoroughly plastered with one-half (1/2) inch thick Portland Cement Mortar. Steps or mental rungs shall be provided in man-holes over five (5) feet in depth.

          (4)      Installation of Castings

                   Castings shall be set at the pavement binder course grade. Frame castings for catch basins and man-holes shall be set in full mortar beds. All casting to be adjusted to finish grade prior to the application of the wearing surface. All adjustments to be with sewer brick.

5.3.4.6. 260 Where sub-drains are required they shall be constructed in conformance with Section 260 of the Standard Specifications.

5.3.5. Gas

5.3.5.1.        Gas mains shall be installed if gas connection is available unless said installation is specifically waived by the Planning Board. See Section 4.9. 1.

5.3.5.2. The Gas Company shall be notified by the developer upon approval of the Definitive Plan so that installation of gas mains may be completed without undue delay.

5.3.5.3. If excavation is made after the subgrade is completed and inspected, the mains shall be put in a trench covered with a poured reinforced concrete slab to the lines, grades and dimensions approved by the Planning Board.

5.3.6. Telephone and Electricity

5.3.6.1. Telephone lines shall be installed in underground conduits in conformity with the Standard Specifications. Electric lines shall be installed underground in accord with the regulations of the Commonwealth Electric Company. The Planning Board may permit transformers, switches and other such equipment to be placed on the ground in approved locations.

5.3.7. Other Utilities

5.3.7.1. Any and all wiring shall be installed underground and may be in the same trench with vertical and/or horizontal separation as approved by the Planning Board. Service shall be provided to each lot and each street light. before the subgrade is prepared.

5.3.7.2. Other utilities shall be installed in underground conduits in accord with Section 800 of the Standard Specifications or as required by the utility company or department.

5.3.7.3. Mailboxes shall be clustered at a location that is approved by the Planning Board and in accordance with postal regulations.

5.3.7.4. A light post 8 (eight) feet high shall be installed at the edge of the road layout. The light shall be equipped with a photosensitive cell, set to operate from dusk to dawn and be connected to the property owner's electrical service. it shall be the property owner's responsibility to maintain the light. (Amended October 17, 1994)

5.4. Sidewalks

5.4.1. Sidewalks shall be constructed within the subdivision, separated from the pavement area by a seeded grass plot. See Section 5.7. When unusual topographic conditions require, the Board may approve the placement of a sidewalk at a greater distance from the roadway or at a higher or lower elevation in relation thereto, provided such variation is indicated on the Definitive Plan and accompanying cross-sections. See Section 4.9.

5.4.2. Sidewalks shall have a finished grade in relation to the finished grade of the roadway as shown on the applicable cross-section plan and shall extend the full length of each side of the street.

5.4.3. All materials shall be removed for the full width of the sidewalk to subgrade twelve (12) inches below the finished grade as shown on the Cross Sections, Schedules B - C.

5.4.4. 701 Bituminous concrete sidewalks laid in two (2) courses, each of one and a quarter (1-1/4) inch, shall have thickness of two and one half (2-1/2) inch after compression, shall be constructed on a nine and one half (9-1/2) inch gravel foundation to the required lines and grades in accordance with the Standard Specifications.

5.4.5. 701 If the applicant prefers to install cement concrete sidewalks, they shall be constructed in conformity with this section of the Standard Specifications.

5.5. Bikeways and Walkways

5.5. 1. 701 Except as specified herein, where bikeways and walkways are required, they shall be constructed in conformance with Section 701 of the Standard Specifications.

5.5.2. Specifications for sidewalks contained in Section 5.4. shall apply to bikeways and walkways.

5.5.3. For the length of each bikeways and walkway there shall be a cross slope equivalent to three-eighths (3/8) of one (1) inch per foot of width to provide for proper drainage. Leveling areas at intersections with sidewalks shall be shown in details.

5.6. Granite Curbs, Granite Edging, Granite Curb Construction & Guard Rails. (Amended  March 11, 1996)

5.6.1. Granite Curbs: Natural color variation characteristic of the deposit from which the curbing is obtained will be permitted. Sawed surfaces shall be thoroughly cleaned and any iron rust or iron particles or any saw mark in excess of 1/8 inch shall be removed. Stones shall be Type VB and have a minimum length of 36 inches, minimum width at the top of 5 inches and minimum width at the bottom of 3 1/2 inches over 2/3 of each stone length and depth of 15 to 17 inches. Stones used for closure pieces may be up to 1/3 shorter than the specified minimum length. Stones set on a radius of 100 feet or less shall be cut to the required curvature and, except for marking closures, shall be a minimum length of 54 inches on radius from 25 to 50 feet or less. At drainage inlets, a gutter mouth of at least 3 inches in depth and at least 2 feet in length shall be cut in the front of the stone.

The front face shall be at right angles to the planes of the top and ends shall be smooth quarry split, free from drill holes and with no projection of more than 1 inch and no depression of more than 1/2 inch measured from the vertical plane of the face of the arris or pitch line for the distance down from the top of 8 inches.

For the remaining distance there shall be no projection or depression greater than 1 inch measured in the same manner. The ends of all stones shall be square with the planes of the top and face so that when the stones are placed end to end as closely as possible no space shall show in the joint at the top and face of more than 1/2 inch for the full width of the top and for eight (8) inches down on the face after which the end may break back not over eight (8) inches from the plane of the joint. The arris formed by the intersection of the plane of the joint with the planes of the top and exposed faces shall have no variation from the plane of the top and exposed faces greater than 1/8 inch.

The finish and surface dimensions shall have a top surface free from wind, shall be peen hammered or sawed to an approximately true plane, and shall have no projections or depressions greater than 1/8 inch. The front and back arris lines shall be pitched straight and true and there shall be no projection on the back surface for 3 inches down from the top which would exceed a batter of 4 inches in 1 foot. (Amended  March 11, 1996)

5.6.2. Granite Edging: Edging stones shall be cut to the following dimensions:

Minimum Length             2 feet

Maximum Length            6 feet

Thickness                       3 inches to 6 inches

Width of Face                 11 inches to 13 inches

Minimum length stone shall be used on curves with a radius of less than 60 feet, except 1 foot lengths shall be used on curves with a radius of 10 feet or less.

The exposed face shall be smooth quarry split to an approximately true plane having no projections or depressions which will cause over 1 inch to show between a 2 foot straight-edge and the face when the straight-edge is placed as closely as possible on any part of the face.

If projections on the face are more than that specified they shall be dressed off. The top and bottom lines of the face shall be pitched off to a straight line and shall not show over 1 inch between stone and straight-edge when straight-edge is placed along the entire length of the top and bottom lines and when viewed from a direction at right angles to the plane of the face and for the top line only not over 1 inch when viewed from a direction in the place of the face. The ends shall be square to the length at the face and so cut that when placed end to end as closely as possible, no space shall show in the joint at the face of over 1 1/2 inches, except that where the edging is to be used on a curve having a radius of 10 feet or less the ends of the stones shall be so cut as to provide a finished joint at the face section of not more than 1/2 inch. The arris formed by the intersection of the plane of the face with the plane of the end jo