A. General standard and criteria for review of special exceptions. In any instance where the Zoning Hearing Board is required to consider a request for special exception, the Zoning Hearing Board must determine that the following standards and criteria are met before granting the request:

(1) The size, scope, extent and character of the special exception requested is consistent with the Fox Chapel Borough Comprehensive Plan and promotes the harmonious and orderly development of the zoning district involved.
(2) The proposed special exception constitutes an appropriate use consistent with the character and type of development in the area surrounding the location for which the request is made and will not substantially impair, alter or detract from the use of surrounding property or the character of the neighborhood in light of the zoning classification of the area affected; the effect on other properties in which the density development is located; the area; the number, extent and scope of nonconforming uses in the area; and the presence or the absence in the neighborhood of conditions or uses which are the same or similar in character to the special exception use for which applicant seeks approval.
(3) The proposed use is suitable with respect to traffic and highways in the area and provides for adequate access and off-street parking arrangements in order to protect major roads from undue congestion and hazard.
(4) Major road frontage will be developed so as to limit the total number of access points and encourage the frontage of buildings on parallel marginal roads or on roads perpendicular to the major road.
(5) The proposed change is reasonable in terms of the logical, efficient and economical extension of public services and facilities, such as public water, sewers, police, fire protection and public schools, and assures adequate arrangements for sanitation in specific instances.
(6) Conditions are being imposed on the grant of the request necessary to ensure that the general purpose and intent of this part is complied with and that the use of the property adjacent to the area proposed for special exception use is adequately safeguarded with respect to harmonious design of buildings, aesthetics, planting and its maintenance as a sight or sound screen, landscaping, hours of operation, lighting, numbers of persons involved, allied activities, ventilation, noise, sanitation, safety, smoke and fume control, and the minimizing of noxious, offensive or hazardous elements.
(7) The proposed change protects and promotes the safety, health and general welfare of the Borough.

Application for special exception.
Any applicant for a building permit or occupancy certificate for a structure or use which may be permitted in the district concerned only as a special exception shall be informed by the Zoning Officer of the rules and procedures of the Zoning Hearing Board relating to such applications.