The purpose of this case is to gather planning commission feedback with respect to two (2) policy topics:

1. Minimum Lot Widths for new cul-de-sac lots in the R-1 Residential (Rural Developing) District 
2. Front yard definitions and standards 

No notification was required as a result of this discussion.

Lot Width

Currently, the City Code requires the same two hundred (200) linear feet of lot width measured at the building setback for parcels on a cul-de-sac bulb as is required for lots located along a linear portion of the street within the R-1 Residential (Rural Developing) District.  The geometry of the cul-de-sac make it very difficult for a proposed lot to be compliant with the lot width requirement and as a result a variance is often sought within these rural developments. The City's standard has been in conflict with actual development proposals for all rural residential developments with cul-de-sacs.

Front Yard

Due to the principal structure being located anywhere along the front yard setback line, the frond yard can be difficult to identify for lots on cul-de-sacs as the line running parallel to the front of the home towards each side lot line, which is generally used to identify the front yard boundary can end up extending over much of the property.  Staff will provide examples of this scenario for the Planning Commission to reference.  Provided below is the existing definition for a Front Yard.

Yard, front, means that area extending along the full length of a front lot line between side lot lines and to the depth required in the yard regulations for the district in which it is located. In the case of a corner lot abutting one or more major roads, both yards shall be considered front yards. A major road is any road that is of a collector designation or greater.

This request is being made by City Staff and as a result costs associated with the request are the responsibility of the City.

Lot Width

Staff recommends that the Planning Commission recommend that Staff drafts an ordinance amending the lot width requirement with respect to properties proposed to be located on a cul-de-sac.

Front Yard

Staff does not have a recommendation but rather is seeking Planning Commission feedback with respect to the front yard definition.  This feedback will assist City Staff in attending to ongoing code enforcement concerns.

Lot Width:

Motion to recommend City Staff draft an ordinance amending lot width requirements for lots located on cul-de-sacs.

Front Yard:

No formal motion is necessary.