Potential Revisions to Accessory Structure Regulations

At a City Council Work Session last fall, the City Council discussed the current standards relating to accessory structures.  That discussion focused on the standards for allotted size or square footage for accessory structures, location, architectural standards, and possible ways to reduce the necessity for a conditional use permit or variance for the construction of an accessory structure under certain circumstances.  

 

Last year, there was consensus by the City Council to increase the allotted square footage for accessory structures and to retain the requirement for a variance to locate a detached accessory structure nearer the front property line than the principal structure on lots less then two (2) acres.  However, the discussion regarding location occurred prior to the state supreme court's ruling on variances and what constitutes reasonable use (at June 8, 2010 work session).  Presently, it is still unclear whether the state legislature will take any action yet this session to address municipalities' ability to process deviations from local ordinances.  Therefore, the attached compilation of potential amendments does include, among other things, potential latitude for the location of detached accessory structures (with certain architectural standards).

 

This list is intended for discussion and consideration and is not necessarily exhaustive.  If the City Council supports any or all of the potential amendments, or if there is consensus on ideas not included on the attached list, the next step would be for City Staff to incorporate this language into ordinance format and schedule a public hearing with the Planning Commission.

Based on discussion.

Processing of ordinance amendments, should that be the direction of the City Council, is handled as part of the normal responsibilities of Staff time.

Provide direction to City Staff with regard to any of the potential amendments relating to accessory structure regulations.