Consider DRAFT Ordinance #17-04 Eliminating the Requirement for In-Ground Irrigation in Multiple Zoning Districts

As directed last month, Staff has prepared a draft Ordinance to amend multiple sections of City Code to eliminate the in-ground irrigation requirement for multi-family and commercial/industrial projects.  This would not prohibit a project from including in-ground irrigation if they wished, but simply removes it as a required improvement.  Please note that revisions can be made to this DRAFT Ordinance this evening as a result of information received about technological improvements to irrigation systems over the past decade or so.

As drafted, the language within each of the impacted zoning districts now states "If a landscape irrigation system is provided ..." rather than stating an irrigation system is required.  Furthermore, it incorporates the language from state statute specifying that an irrigation system must be equipped with technology that shuts off the system during sufficient periods of moisture.  Per discussion last month, additional system requirements could be included, if that is the consensus of the Board.  A more informed discussion on this aspect of the DRAFT Ordinance will be possible after receiving a presentation on irrigation system components and potential costs of those elements (scheduled for this same meeting). 

 

This case is being handled as part of Staff's regular duties.

Based on discussion.  Preferably, the Board will provide direction to Staff as to whether any additional language should be included regarding required components of a landscape irrigation system.  Furthermore, the Board could direct Staff to make necessary revisions for review at the next meeting and/or make a motion to direct Staff to move the DRAFT Ordinance forward and schedule a Public Hearing.