06/11/2003 P&Z Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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• • • AGENDA ITEM VI B STAFF ORIGINATOR: Jeff Smyser P & Z MEETING DATE: June 11, 2003 TOPIC: Temporary Fabric Structures BACKGROUND A number of residents are constructing temporary fabric structures, primarily for storage of vehicles. This is a relatively new product that typically consists of aluminum poles with plastic fabric stretched over the poles. Staff is bringing the issue to the P & Z for discussion to see if the P & Z wants to pursue adding language to the zoning ordinance to address this type of structure. City building inspections and other community development staff have received inquiries, including complaints, about fabric structures. These structures are not addressed in the building code nor are they specifically considered in the zoning ordinance. They require no building permit. Our approach to date has been that these structures must not encroach on setbacks and that they must be included in the accessory building square footage on a lot. Other municipalities have specifically addressed these fabric structures in their zoning ordinances. For example, the City of Blaine requires a building permit for them and requires that they match the color of the principle structure on the property. The City of Woodbury recently adopted an ordinance that states: "Cloth, canvas, plastic sheets and tarps and similar materials, corrugated roofing or siding are not allowed as primary materials on accessory structures." This prohibition does not apply to greenhouses or to structures in agricultural zones. To guide the discussion, here are some alternatives: • Place no regulatory limits or requirements on fabric structures: people can use them anywhere, to any extent. • Prohibit fabric structures in residential, business, and industrial zones but allow them in rural zones. • Allow them, but define them as accessory structures and state that they must meet setbacks and be included in accessory square footage on a lot. • Require a building permit for fabric structures in addition to the previous option. Staff is seeking direction from the P & Z on how to address the issues.