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dwelling not be altered in any way. The most specific (St. Paul) states that "no structural alterations <br /> or enlargements shall be made to the dwelling for the primary purpose of conducting the home <br /> occupation Your ordinance seems adequate in this point. <br /> 4. Requirements regarding notification of neighboring property owners of proposed home <br /> occupations. <br /> Falcon Heights currently does not require notification. About half of the communities require <br /> notification before the permit takes effect and the other half require no notification. <br /> 5. The usefulness of specifically listing permitted home occupations. <br /> Falcon Heights does not specifically list permitted or non permitted uses as home occupations. Some <br /> cities list both specifically permitted and prohibited uses and/or examples. The benefit of specifically <br /> listing type of uses that are permitted help citizens decide if they need to apply for a permit. Likewise <br /> listing types of uses that are strictly prohibited are useful in the initial inquiry process so that the <br /> applicant is aware how reasonable or not their request is. Non permitted uses typically include things <br /> such as automobile repair, machine shops, food service and welding. Permitted uses usually include <br /> things such as professional offices and home crafts. <br /> 6. The usefulness of a conditional use permit for those that don't conform to the code is it better <br /> just not to allow those that don't conform to the code? <br /> Yes, it is better to just not allow uses that don't conform to the code. If a use does not meet the <br /> standards of a home occupation, it is probably better suited for a business or industrial district. Of <br /> course the City should maintain the conditional use or 'variance' for special cases. The City of St. <br /> Paul allows 'variances' to the requirements of home occupation standards only to those that can show <br /> some type of handicap (including allergies, mobility impairment, or any other handicap that can be <br /> documented that would require the person to conduct business out of their home). <br /> Another item the City may want to consider adding to the home occupation ordinance is limiting the <br /> amount of a dwelling which can be used. Some ordinances specify one room, and others specify 20% <br /> and 25% of a dwellings floor area. A percentage of floor area is more reasonable and enforceable <br /> than an amount of moms. <br /> Please let us know if you need any additional information on this. <br /> Sincerely, <br /> DAHLGREN, SHARDLOW, and UBAN INC. <br /> ynn M. Rabuse <br /> Planner <br />