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1 <br /> <br />PLANNING & ZONING BOARD <br />AGENDA ITEM 5B <br /> <br />STAFF ORIGINATOR: Michael Grochala <br />P & Z MEETING DATE: March 13, 2019 <br />REQUEST: Zoning Ordinance Amendment Providing for <br />Construction of Retaining Walls Greater than 42” in <br />Height <br />APPLICANT: City of Lino Lakes <br />REVIEW DEADLINE: Not Applicable – City Initiated <br /> <br />BACKGROUND <br />City Code §1007.043 (18) regulates the construction of Fences and Walls. This includes <br />the construction of retaining walls. A Zoning Permit is required for construction within <br />all platted areas of the city. <br />§1007.043 (18) (d)(5) currently prohibits retaining walls over 42 inches in height. <br />The state building code has provision for walls greater than 48 inches. This measurement <br />includes any buried section of the wall (footing). Staff is proposing to allow the higher <br />wall height subject to State Building Code provisions. A Zoning Permit will continue to <br />be required for walls 48 inches in height or less. <br /> <br />ANALYSIS <br />The City regulates the placement and construction of retaining walls within all zoning <br />districts. Walls are proposed for various purposes but are predominately related to <br />landscaping improvements. Wall height can vary based on the elevation changes within a <br />given property. <br />The prohibition on wall heights over 42 inches can lead to additional costs to property <br />owners in the form of addition wall construction. Staff does not see any public purpose <br />for this provision. Wall construction over 42 inches can be reviewed and approved <br />through the established building process. <br />A zoning permit will continue to be required for walls 48 inches or less in height. This is <br />intended to ensure retaining walls are located within property lines and do not obstruct <br />drainage. <br />The proposed amendment includes four changes to current ordinance: