03-25-2019 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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1 CITY COUNCIL AGENDA ITEM 6H STAFF ORIGINATOR: Michael Grochala, Community Development Director MEETING DATE: March 25, 2019 TOPIC: Consider 1st Reading of Ordinance No. 06-19, Amending City Code § 1007 Allowing for Construction of Retaining Walls Greater than 42”in Height. VOTE REQUIRED: Simple Majority INTRODUCTION Staff is requesting City Council consideration to amend City Code § 1007 to allow for retaining walls greater than 42” in height. BACKGROUND City Code §1007.043 (18) regulates the construction of Fences and Walls. This includes the construction of retaining walls. A Zoning Permit is required for construction within all platted areas of the city. §1007.043 (18) (d)(5) currently prohibits retaining walls over 42 inches in height. The state building code has provision for walls greater than 48 inches. This measurement includes any buried section of the wall (footing). Staff is proposing to allow the higher wall height subject to State Building Code provisions. A Zoning Permit will continue to be required for walls 48 inches in height or less. ANALYSIS The City regulates the placement and construction of retaining walls within all zoning districts. Walls are proposed for various purposes but are predominately related to landscaping improvements. Wall height can vary based on the elevation changes within a given property. The prohibition on wall heights over 42 inches can lead to additional costs to property owners in the form of additional wall construction. Staff does not see any public purpose for this provision. Wall construction over 42 inches can be reviewed and approved through the established building permit process. A zoning permit will continue to be required for walls 48 inches or less in height. This is intended to ensure retaining walls are located within property lines and do not obstruct drainage. The proposed amendment includes four changes to current ordinance: