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HomeMy WebLinkAbout#14 - Old Village Zoning Text Amendments1 STAFF REPORT DATE: 9/17/2024 Item#: 14 Regular Agenda TO: City Council FROM: Jason Stopa, Community Development Director AGENDA ITEM: Zoning Text Amendment – Village Districts REVIEWED BY: Ashley Monterusso, City Planner; Nathan Fuerst, Bolton and Menk Planning Consultant; Sophia Jensen, City Planner; Jack Griffin, City Engineer – Focus Engineering; Marty Powers, Public Works Director BACKGROUND: Lake Elmo passed a moratorium in the Village Area in February 2023. This resulted in a study managed by community development, conducted by Bolton and Menk (B&M), which included a survey, community engagement, Council workshops, and input from the Planning Commission. After reviewing the survey and report created by B&M, Lake Elmo staff are proposing a text amendment to the ordinance. Staff are proposing a general cleanup of the ordinance along with new standards for consideration prior to rescinding the moratorium. The ordinance to rescind the moratorium is on the 9/17 Council agenda. ISSUE BEFORE THE CITY COUNCIL: The City Council is being asked to review the proposed text amendment to the City’s Village Districts Code. PROPOSAL DETAILS: City Zoning Code Sections under review: • 105.12.770-840 (Zoning Code – Article XIII Village Districts) • Lake Elmo Design Guidelines (separate from the zoning code) REVIEW AND ANALYSIS See attached. Proposed language is underlined. Deleted language is shown with a strikethrough. The proposed text amendment promotes: • Higher density, single-family detached housing • Traditional Neighborhood Developments. Defined by the APA as a development that exhibits several of the following characteristics: alleys, streets laid out in a grid system, buildings oriented to the street, front porches on houses, pedestrian-orientation, compatible and mixed land uses, village squares and greens. • Allowing more permitted uses as opposed to conditional uses. PUBLIC HEARING: A notice of public hearing was published in the City’s official newspaper on August 30, 2024. 2 PLANNING COMMISSION: We did not receive any comments at the Planning Commission meeting. Planning Commission voted 4-0 to approve. FISCAL IMPACT: None. OPTIONS: • Recommend approval of the proposed amendments. • Recommend changes to the proposed amendments. • Recommend denial of the proposed amendments. RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends the City Council vote to approve the proposed text amendments and City Design Guidelines as presented by Staff. “Move to adopt Ordinance 2024-14 approving the zoning text amendments to the Village Districts code and the changes to the City Design Guidelines as presented by Staff” And “Move to adopt summary of publication of Ordinance 2024-14 with approval of Resolution 2024-098 ATTACHMENTS: • Draft Text Amendment Language • Ordinance – 2024-14 • Resolution – 2024- 098- Summary of Publication • LE Design Guidelines with proposed changes 105.12.770 Purpose And District Description The village districts encompass the Lake Elmo Village Planning Area. The village districts provide for an area of compact development including a mix of uses made mutually compatible through a combination of careful planning and urban design and coordinated public and private investment. The mixture of uses and level of density and intensity is intended to support the level of public infrastructure planned for the area. a) V-LDR Village Low Density Residential. The purpose of the V-LDR zoning district is to provide opportunity for lower density residential development within the Village Planning Area and to create a transition and connectivity between the heart of the Old Village and surrounding rural areas. Appropriate housing types in this area may include single-family detached housing. Residential development within areas zoned V-LDR will occur at a density of 1.5 to 3.00 units per acre. b) V-MDR Village Medium Density Residential. The purpose of the V-MDR is to provide an area for greater variety in housing stock and bring more people closer to living within easy access of Old Village destinations and amenities. The district shall consist primarily of higher density, single-family detached housing. Appropriate housing types in this area may include single-family detached, Single-family attached, duplexes, and townhomes/villa housing types shall not exceed 25% of the development. Residential development within areas zoned V-MDR will occur at a density of 3.01 to 8 units per acre. c) V-HDR Village High Density Residential. The purpose of the V-HDR is to provide an area for a variety of higher density housing types in the Village Planning Area and to bring a higher concentration of people closer to Old Village destinations and amenities. This area is intended to provide for opportunities for more housing at a wider range of price points and to provide lifecycle housing in Lake Elmo. Appropriate housing types in this area may include multi-family dwellings. First floor non-residential uses may be appropriate. Residential development within areas zoned V-HDR will occur at a density of 8.01 to 12 units per acre. d) VMX Village Mixed-Use District. This district is intended to continue the traditional mixed-use development that has occurred in the Old Village by allowing retail, service, office, civic and public uses as well as residential units. The mixture of land uses within the district is essential to establishing the level of vitality and intensity needed to support retail and service uses. Development within areas zoned VMX will occur at a density of 5 - 10 units per acre. Senior congregate care facilities may exceed this density maximum with a range not to exceed a total of 16 units per acre, provided the facility can satisfy all zoning and applicable conditional use permit review criteria. The placement of building edges and treatment of building, parking, landscaping, and pedestrian spaces is essential to creating the pedestrian friendly environment envisioned for the VMX district. 105.12.780 Permitted And Conditional Uses Table 11-1 lists all permitted and conditional uses allowed in the village districts. "P" indicates a permitted use, "C" a conditional use. Uses not so indicated shall be considered prohibited. Cross-references listed in the table under "Standards" indicate the location within this section of specific development standards that apply to the listed use. a) Combinations of uses. The following use types may be combined on a single parcel: 1. Principal and accessory uses may be combined on a single parcel. 2. Permitted or conditional uses allowed within the district may be combined on a single parcel, provided that a unified and integrated site plan is approved. If one or both of the uses is/are conditional, the entire development must be approved as a conditional use. b) STOPPED Combination of uses, VMX district. 1. A mixed-use building that combines permitted or conditionally permitted uses may be developed meeting the form standards of this subchapter. c) Non-Residential Uses. 1. On property zoned V-HDR, allowed non-residential uses shall be located permitted on the street level (first floor) only. Such use shall have its primary entrance from the front or side of the building. Table 11-1: Permitted and Conditional Uses, Village Districts V-LDR V-MDR V-HDR VMX Standard Residential Uses Household Living: Single-family detached dwelling P P P C P LEC 105.12.8320(a) Two-family dwelling3 - P* - P C* P Single-family attached dwelling3 - C - C C LEC 105.12.8320(a) Multifamily dwelling - C - C C LEC 105.12.8320(a) Secondary dwelling C P C P P C P LEC 105.12.8320(a) Live-work unit - C C C P LEC 105.12.8320(a) Group Living: Group home P C - P LEC 105.12.500 Group residential facility - C - C LEC 105.12.500 Congregate housing - C - C LEC 105.12.500 Semi-transient accommodations - - - C LEC 105.12.500 Public and Civic Uses: Community services - - - P LEC 105.12.110 Day care center - C - P LEC 105.12.110 Public assembly - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Religious institutions - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Schools, public and private - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Services: Business services - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Business center - - - P LEC 105.12.110 Offices - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Communications services - - - P LEC 105.12.110 Education services - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Financial institution - - C P LEC 105.12.110, V- HDR first floor only and drive- thru prohibited. VMX drive-thru by Conditional Use Permit. Funeral home - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Lodging - - C C 154.302(d) Medical facility - - C C LEC 105.12.510 Membership organization - - - C Nursing and personal care - - - C LEC 105.12.510 Personal services - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Repair and maintenance shop - - - C2 LEC 105.12.8320 Trade shop - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Veterinary services - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Food Services: Standard restaurant - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Restaurant with drive-through - - C C In VMX drive- thru shall be located in rear yard. LEC 105.12.520 Drinking and entertainment - - - P LEC 105.12.520 Sales of Merchandise: Retail trade 1 - - - P LEC 105.12.110 Farmer's market - - - C P Garden center - - - C LEC 105.12.960(g) 950 Neighborhood convenience store - C P C P LEC 105.12.110 Shopping center - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Wayside stand P - - P LEC 105.12.750 740(d) Automotive/Vehicular Uses: Automobile maintenance service - - - C2 LEC 105.12.830 820 Automobile parts/supply - - - C LEC 105.12.830 820 Gasoline station - - - C2 LEC 105.12.530(b) Parking facility - C C C LEC 105.12.830(b) 820 Sales and storage lots - - - C LEC 105.12.530(c) Outdoor Recreation: Outdoor recreation facility - C - C LEC 105.12.550(c) 540 Parks and open areas P P P P On public property or as an accessory use to serve residents of a primary use Indoor Recreation/Entertainment: Indoor athletic facility - C C C LEC 105.12.560 550 Indoor recreation - - - C LEC 105.12.560 550 Transportation and Communications: Broadcasting or communications facility - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Accessory Uses: Home occupation P P P P LEC 105.12.110 Bed and breakfast P - - P LEC 105.04.220(a) 12.110 Family day care P P - P LEC 105.12.110 Group family day care - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Temporary sales P P - P LEC 105.12.870(g) 830(h) Parking facility - - - P LEC 105.12.830 110 Solar equipment P P P P Roof mounted only 1 Retail Trade in the VMX District includes all uses and activities defined as Retail Trade in LEC 105.12.110(b) (5) with the exception of building supplies sales and warehouse club sales. 2 Uses shall only be located on lots fronting Stillwater Boulevard North/CSAH 14 or Manning Avenue/CSAH 15. 3 In the V-MDR district, single-family attached, duplexes, and townhomes/villa housing types may be permitted, as part of a PUD, but shall not exceed 25% of the development. 105.12.790 Lot Dimensions And Building Bulk Requirements Lot area and setback requirements shall be as specified in Table 11-2, Lot Dimension and Setback Requirements. Table 11-2: Lot Dimension and Setback Requirements, Villages Districts V-LDR V-MDR V-HDR VMX Minimum Lot Area (square feet): a Nonresidential use - - - None Single-family detached dwelling (front/rear loaded driveway) b 9,000/7,000 7,000 6,000/4,000 6,000/4,000 9,000 6,000/4,000 Two-family dwelling (per unit) b c - 4,000 2,500 2,500 4,000 2,500 Single-family attached (per unit) c d - 2,500 2,500 3,000 2500 Multifamily dwelling (per unit) - 3,000 1,800 2,800 Secondary dwelling See LEC 105.12.740(c) See LEC 105.12.740(c) See LEC 105.12.740(c) See LEC 105.12.740(c) Congregate housing - See LEC 105.12.500(c) - LEC 105.12.500(c) Minimum Lot Width (feet): Single-family detached dwelling (front/rear loaded driveway) b 70/50 50 60/40 60/40 70 60/40 Two-family dwelling (twin/vertical) (per unit) b c - 30/25 30/25 30/25 Single-family attached (per unit) c d - 25 25 25 Multifamily dwelling (per building) - 75 60 75 Live-work unit - 25 25 25 Maximum height (feet/stories)j 35 35/3 d 50 45/3 35/3 d e Maximum Impervious Coverage: Residential lots 35 percent 50 percent 75 percent 75 percent Other - - - No Limit Minimum Building Setbacks (feet): Front yard 25 25 25 Single-Family Detached and Attached: - 25 Multifamily Dwellings: -25 Non-Residential Uses: -25 Commercial/Mixed Use: 10 Interior Side Yard: Principal building 10 10 10 10 e f Principal building – Single-Family Detached 10 5 5 5 Attached garage or accessory structure 5 5 5 5 Corner side yard 15 15 10 15 10 0 f g Rear yardi 20 20 20 10 g h Notes to Village Districts Table: a. No development may exceed the residential density range as specified in the comprehensive plan for the corresponding land use category. b. In all districts except V-LDR: For single-family detached dwellings, driveway access is encouraged to be rear loaded to meet density requirements and Traditional Neighborhood Development design principles. Front loaded access is allowed for flexibility within the development but sh all not exceed 25% of the development. See 105.12.820-830 for parking requirements related to attached and detached garages. b c. Two-family units may be side-by-side with a party wall between them (twin) or located on separate floors (vertical) in a building on a single lot (duplex). The per-unit measurements in this table apply to twin units, whether on a single lot or separate lots. The standards for single -family detached dwelling shall apply to a duplex containing two vertically-separated units on a single lot. If a driveway through the front yard, along the side of building is proposed, the lot width shall increase by 10 feet or the width of the proposed driveway, whichever is greater. See 105.12.820(b). c d . In the case of single-family attached dwellings that are not situated on individual lots, minimum lot size shall be applied to each unit as a measure of density; i.e., one unit per 2,500 square feet. This standard is also used for multifamily dwellings. If a driveway through the front yard, along the side of the building is proposed, the lot width shall increase by 10 feet or the width of the proposed driveway, whichever is greater. See 105.12.820-830. Since dwellings are attached, interior side yards are not required. Buildings shall have a minimum separation of 20 feet. d e . Buildings up to 45 feet in height may be permitted as part of a PUD in the VMX district and V-MDR districts. e f. Side yard setbacks in the VMX district apply only along lot lines abutting residentially zoned parcels or those parcels with residential uses as the sole use. f g. Corner properties. The side yard facade of a corner building adjoining a public street shall maintain the front setback of the adjacent property fronting upon the same public street, or the required front yard setback, whichever is less. If no structure exists on the adjacent property, and provided required setbacks are not otherwise stated herein, the setback shall be shown in the table. g h. Properties zoned V-LDR abutting Stillwater Boulevard North (CSAH 14), Lake Elmo Avenue North (CSAH 17) north of Stillwater Blvd (CSAH 14), and Manning Avenue North (CSAH 15) shall have a minimum structure setback of 50 feet. i. Rear loaded detached garages, that open onto an alley, are not required to have a setback from the rear property line. j. Below grade/basement dwelling units shall be considered the first floor. 105.12.800 Dimensional Requirements And Preservation Of Open Space a) Averaging of lot area. When lots are clustered within a development to provide common open space, the open space may be used to calculate an average density per lot to determine compliance with the individual lot area requirements. b) Lot dimension reductions. Other reductions in dimensional standards may be considered as part of a planned unit development if these reductions provide for common open space within a development. 105.12.810 General Site Design Considerations; Village Districts Development of land within the village districts shall follow established standards for traffic circulation, landscape design, and other considerations as specified in the Lake Elmo City Code (LEC). Traditional Neighborhood Development principles shall be followed. a) The Lake Elmo Design Guidelines and Standards shall govern site design and building design. b) Circulation. 1. New access points to County State Aid Highway 14 may be refused or restricted to right-in, right-out movement if alternatives exist. Internal connections shall be provided between parking areas on adjacent properties wherever feasible. 2. The number and width of curb cuts shall be minimized. To promote pedestrian circulation, existing continuous curb cuts shall be reduced to widths necessary for vehicular traffic, and unnecessary or abandoned curb cuts shall be removed as parcels are developed. c) Screening of existing residential structures. When a new more intensive residential or non-residential development is proposed adjacent to an existing single -family residential structure, screening shall be provided in accordance with LEC 105.12.480 (f). The city may require buffering or screening above and beyond this section in cases where the required screening will not provide an adequate separation between the uses. d) Sidewalks and/or trails. Where cul-de-sacs are permitted by the city, sidewalks or trails are required to connect the bulb of the cul-de-sac with the nearest through- road or trail. e) Lake Elmo Theming Study. Elements of the Lake Elmo Theming Study not herein described must be incorporated in to development within village districts where applicable. f) Alley design. Alleys shall be privately owned and maintained by the homeowners’ association but shall be accessible to the public. Snow removal and grass cutting may be assigned to the abutting homeowner. 1. Alley dimensions. The easement width shall be a minimum of 32 feet. The roadway width shall be a minimum of 16 feet. The area between the property line and the edge of road shall be a minimum of 8 feet or half of the road width, whichever is greater and shall be provided on both sides of the road. Alley design shall be approved by the engineering department to ensure that adequate area is provided. 105.12.820 Development Standards For Specific Uses Development of land within the village districts shall follow established standards for traffic circulation, landscape design, and other considerations as specified by the Lake Elmo City Code (LEC). The following standards apply to specific uses. a) Residential units 1. Single-family detached dwellings. a. No parking shall be located in the front yard or between the front facade and the street except on a permitted driveway. b. Primary entrances are required to be along the front facade. c. Dwelling units shall be at least 24 feet in width, at least 960 square feet in area, and be placed on a permanent foundation. d. In districts outside of V-LDR: Parking for single-family detached units is encouraged to be accessible from a rear yard alley. 1. If a driveway through the front yard, along the side of the building is proposed, required parking shall be located in the rear yard or in an attached garage located behind the habitable area. 2. Front loaded garages are not permitted. e. Unless otherwise specified in this article, single-family detached dwellings in the VMX and V-HDR shall adhere to the V-MDR district setbacks. 2. Secondary dwellings. Restricted to lots occupied by single-family detached dwellings, and must meet the standards for secondary dwellings in residential districts, LEC 105.12.740(c) and, in the VMX, must be located within the primary structure. LEC 105.12.740(c)(4) shall not apply. In all districts except V-LDR, the minimum lot area shall meet the standard for two-family dwellings. 3. Single-family attached and two-family dwellings. a. The primary entrance to each unit shall be located on the facade fronting a public street. b. Common open space for use by all residents or private open space adjacent to each unit shall be provided. Such open space shall comprise of a minimum of 300 square feet in the V-HDR and VMX, and 500 square feet per unit in the V-MDR. c. Unless otherwise specified in this article, single-family attached dwellings in the VMX and V-MHDR shall adhere to the MDR district setbacks. d. No parking shall be located in the front yard or between the front façade and the street. e. Parking for single-family attached and two-family units is encouraged to be accessible from a rear yard alley. 1. If a driveway through the front yard, along the side of the building is proposed, only one driveway per building shall be approved. Required parking shall be located in the rear yard. f. Front loaded garages are not permitted. 4. Multifamily dwelling units. a. Dwelling units within a mixed-use building are restricted to the upper floors or rear or side ground floors. b. Setback standards for multifamily dwellings not within a mixed-use development shall be determined through the conditional use process. c. Common open space for use by all residents or private open space adjacent to each unit shall be provided. Such open space shall comprise of a minimum of 300 square feet per unit in the V-MDR and 200 square feet per unit in the V-HDR. d. No parking shall be located in the front yard or between the front façade and the street. Parking for multi-family dwelling units is encouraged to be accessible from a rear yard alley. Parking shall be located below grade or in the rear or interior side yard. 5. All other residential uses, VMX district. Setbacks for all other residential uses within the village districts not specifically outlined in this section shall be determined by either LEC 105.12.830 or through the conditional use process. b) Nonresidential uses. 1. Setbacks, generally. The front yard setback of a new nonresidential building within the VMX district shall maintain the prevailing front yard setback of that block, or a maximum setback of 20 feet, whichever is less. 2. Repair and maintenance shop. No outdoor storage is permitted unless fully screened from public view. 3. Trade shop. Exterior materials storage must be totally screened from view from adjacent public streets and adjacent residential properties by a wall of the principal structure or a screen wall constructed of the same materials as the principal structure. 4. Veterinary services. a. All activities must be conducted within an enclosed building. b. Specific veterinary practices shall be limited to veterinary medicine, surgery, dentistry, and related service for small domestic household pets. 5. Garden center. a. The storage or display of any materials or products shall meet all setback requirements of a structure, and shall be maintained in an orderly manner. Screening along the boundaries of adjacent residential properties may be required, meeting the standards of LEC 105.12.470(f). b. The storage of any soil, fertilizer or other loose, unpackaged materials shall be contained so as to prevent any effects on adjacent uses. 6. Automobile maintenance service and automobile parts/supply. a. All vehicle repairs shall be conducted in a completely enclosed building. b. The storage or display of inoperable or unlicensed vehicles or other equipment shall meet all setback requirements of a structure, and shall be totally screened from view from adjacent public streets and adjacent residential properties. 7. Live-work unit. The purpose of a live-work unit is to provide a transitional use type between a home occupation and a larger commercial enterprise while maintaining a generally residential character in which the work space is subordinate to the residential use and the effects of the work space are compatible with a residential use. a. The work space component shall be located on the first floor or basement of the building. b. The dwelling unit component shall maintain a separate entrance. c. The work space component of the unit shall not exceed 50 percent of the total gross floor area of the unit. d. A total of two off-street parking spaces shall be provided for a live- work unit, located to the rear of the unit, or underground/enclosed. e. The size and nature of the work space shall be limited so that the building type may be governed by residential building codes. f. The business component of the building may include offices, small service establishments, crafts considered accessory to a dwelling unit, limited retailing (by appointment only), or personal services. It may not include a large scale wholesale business, a commercial food service requiring a license, a limousine business or auto service or repair for any vehicles other than those registered to residents of the property. g. The business of the live-work unit must be conducted by a person who resides on the same lot. The business shall not employ more than two workers on-site at any one time who live outside of the live-work unit. 8. Parking facility. Structured parking is permitted as a ground floor use within a mixed-use building, provided that the entrance is located on side or rear facades, not facing the primary abutting street. The primary street-facing facade shall be designed for retail, office or residential use. 9. Outdoor dining accessory to food services. Outdoor dining is allowed as an accessory use provided that tables do not block the required sidewalk. 105.12.830 Accessory Uses And Structures Accessory uses are listed in Table 11-1 as permitted or conditional accessory uses. Accessory uses and structures in the village districts shall comply with the following standards and all other applicable regulations of this article: a) Phasing. No accessory use or structure shall be constructed or established on any lot prior to the time of construction of the principal use to which it is accessory. b) Incidental to principal use. The accessory use or structure shall be incidental to and customarily associated with the principal use or structure served. c) Subordinate to principal use. The accessory use or structure shall be subordinate in the area, extent, and purpose to the principal use or structure served. d) Function. The accessory use or structure shall contribute to the comfort, convenience, or necessity of the occupants of the principal use or structure served. e) Location. The accessory use or structure shall be located on the same zoning lot as the principal use or structure. f) Residential accessory structures. 1. Design compatibility. On parcels used for residential structures within the village districts, the design and construction of any garage, carport, or storage building shall be similar to or compatible with the design and construction of the main building. The exterior building materials, roof style, and colors shall be similar to or compatible with the main building or shall be commonly associated with residential construction. 2. Attached structures. An accessory structure shall be considered attached, and an integral part of, the principal structure when it is connected by an enclosed passageway. All attached accessory structures shall be subject to the following requirements: a. The structure shall meet the required yard setbacks for a principal structure, as established for the zoning district in which it is located. b. The structure shall not exceed the height of the principal building to which it is attached. 3. Attached garages. a. In the V-LDR district, Aattached garages on single-family detached structures are encouraged to be side or rear loaded. In all other districts, attached garages on single-family detached structures are required to be rear loaded. Attached garages on single-family attached, two-family, and multifamily structures shall be rear loaded. If facing the primary street, garages shall be designed using one of the following techniques, unless specific physical conditions on the lot in question require a different approach: 1. The front facade of the garage shall be offset from the principal structure by a minimum of two feet from the plane of the public right-of-way. 2. The width of the attached garage shall not exceed 40 percent of the width of the entire principal building facade (including garage) fronting the primary street. within the V-LDR district. where it shall not exceed 60 percent of the width of entire principal building facade (including garage) fronting the primary street. b. Attached garages shall not exceed 1,000 square feet in area at the ground floor level except by conditional use permit. c. Garage doors or openings shall not exceed 14 eight feet in height. 4. Detached structures. Detached accessory structures for permitted residential structures in the village districts must be in accordance with the following requirements: a. Detached accessory structures shall be located to the side or rear of the principal building, and are not permitted within the required front yard or within a side yard abutting a street. b. Detached garages shall not exceed 1,000 square feet at ground floor level and shall not exceed a height of 22 feet or the height of the principal structure, whichever is higher. The maximum size and height may be increased upon approval of a conditional use permit, provided that lot coverage requirements are satisfied. c. Detached garages shall be located in the rear yard and are encouraged to be rear loaded. d. Pole barns shall be prohibited. e. No more than 30 percent of the rear yard area may be covered by accessory structures. f. Garage doors or openings shall not exceed 14 eight feet in height for residential uses. g) Exterior storage on residential parcels. All materials and equipment shall be stored within a building or be fully screened so as not to be visible from adjoining properties, except for the following: 1. Laundry drying. 2. Construction and landscaping materials and equipment currently being used on the premises. Materials kept on the premises for a period exceeding six months shall be screened or stored out of view of the primary street on which the house fronts. 3. Agricultural equipment and materials, if these are used or intended for use on the premises. 4. Off-street parking and storage of vehicles and accessory equipment, as regulated in LEC 105.12.410. 5. Storage of firewood shall be kept at least ten feet from any habitable structure and screened from view of adjacent properties. 6. Outdoor parking. h) Temporary sales. Temporary sales, also known as yard or garage sales, are permitted in all residential districts, limited to two per calendar year per residence, not to exceed four days in length for each event. 105.12.840 Village Districts Design Review a) Review of design. For certain development activity, as specified in the Lake Elmo Design Standards Manual, design review is required as part of the approval process. All projects subject to design review shall be reviewed for conformance with the Lake Elmo Design Standards Manual. The Lake Elmo Design Standards Manual shall apply to all properties in the Village Area. A separate process for design review is not established. 1. Review authority and process. Design review shall be facilitated and reviewed by the planning community development department. The community development department shall approve or deny the application. The applicant may appeal the department’s decision to the City Council within 30 days of the date of the letter. The appeal shall be in writing and filed with the community development director. and the review shall be conducted by the City Council or individual authorized to approve the development activity. Design review shall be incorporated in the established review of the development activity. For those applications under this section that require review by the planning commission (i.e., conditional use permits), the planning commission shall consider the standards in the Lake Elmo Design Standards Manual in its recommendation to the city council. 2. Review by professional. The City Council or applicant may request review by a design professional of the proposed design or demolition. The City shall designate a design professional to conduct the review and the applicant shall be responsible for the costs incurred. 3. Development activity defined. a. Development activity consists of new construction and redevelopment activities, including remodeling that expands the footprint of a structure, altering, or repairing a structure in a manner that will change the exterior appearance of said structure. Development activity also includes the construction of a new parking lot and installation of signage. b. Exempt activities. The following activities shall be exempt from review under this section: 1. Ordinary repairs and maintenance that will not change the exterior appearance of a structure; 2. Removal of existing signage without replacement unless said signs are an integral part of the building; 3. Emergency repairs ordered by the City in order to protect public health and safety; 4. Exterior alteration, addition, or repair of a structure used as a single-family residence, duplex, or two-family residence; 5. Temporary signage, installed in accordance with the sign regulations of the city code, or during which time an application for permanent signage is pending under this section; 6. Maintenance of existing signage advertising an on-site business; 7. Alterations only to the interior of a structure. 105.12.770 Purpose And District Description The village districts encompass the Lake Elmo Village Planning Area. The village districts provide for an area of compact development including a mix of uses made mutually compatible through a combination of careful planning and urban design and coordinated public and private investment. The mixture of uses and level of density and intensity is intended to support the level of public infrastructure planned for the area. a) V-LDR Village Low Density Residential. The purpose of the V-LDR zoning district is to provide opportunity for lower density residential development within the Village Planning Area and to create a transition and connectivity between the heart of the Old Village and surrounding rural areas. Appropriate housing types in this area may include single-family detached housing. Residential development within areas zoned V-LDR will occur at a density of 1.5 to 3.00 units per acre. b) V-MDR Village Medium Density Residential. The purpose of the V-MDR is to provide an area for greater variety in housing stock and bring more people closer to living within easy access of Old Village destinations and amenities. The district shall consist primarily of higher density, single-family detached housing. Appropriate housing types in this area may include single-family detached, Single-family attached, duplexes, and townhomes/villa housing types shall not exceed 25% of the development. Residential development within areas zoned V-MDR will occur at a density of 3.01 to 8 units per acre. c) V-HDR Village High Density Residential. The purpose of the V-HDR is to provide an area for a variety of higher density housing types in the Village Planning Area and to bring a higher concentration of people closer to Old Village destinations and amenities. This area is intended to provide for opportunities for more housing at a wider range of price points and to provide lifecycle housing in Lake Elmo. Appropriate housing types in this area may include multi-family dwellings. First floor non-residential uses may be appropriate. Residential development within areas zoned V-HDR will occur at a density of 8.01 to 12 units per acre. d) VMX Village Mixed-Use District. This district is intended to continue the traditional mixed-use development that has occurred in the Old Village by allowing retail, service, office, civic and public uses as well as residential units. The mixture of land uses within the district is essential to establishing the level of vitality and intensity needed to support retail and service uses. Development within areas zoned VMX will occur at a density of 5 - 10 units per acre. Senior congregate care facilities may exceed this density maximum with a range not to exceed a total of 16 units per acre, provided the facility can satisfy all zoning and applicable conditional use permit review criteria. The placement of building edges and treatment of building, parking, landscaping, and pedestrian spaces is essential to creating the pedestrian friendly environment envisioned for the VMX district. 105.12.780 Permitted And Conditional Uses Table 11-1 lists all permitted and conditional uses allowed in the village districts. "P" indicates a permitted use, "C" a conditional use. Uses not so indicated shall be considered prohibited. Cross-references listed in the table under "Standards" indicate the location within this section of specific development standards that apply to the listed use. a) Combinations of uses. The following use types may be combined on a single parcel: 1. Principal and accessory uses may be combined on a single parcel. 2. Permitted or conditional uses allowed within the district may be combined on a single parcel, provided that a unified and integrated site plan is approved. If one or both of the uses is/are conditional, the entire development must be approved as a conditional use. b) STOPPED Combination of uses, VMX district. 1. A mixed-use building that combines permitted or conditionally permitted uses may be developed meeting the form standards of this subchapter. c) Non-Residential Uses. 1. On property zoned V-HDR, allowed non-residential uses shall be located permitted on the street level (first floor) only. Such use shall have its primary entrance from the front or side of the building. Table 11-1: Permitted and Conditional Uses, Village Districts V-LDR V-MDR V-HDR VMX Standard Residential Uses Household Living: Single-family detached dwelling P P P C P LEC 105.12.8320(a) Two-family dwelling3 - P* - P C* P Single-family attached dwelling3 - C - C C LEC 105.12.8320(a) Multifamily dwelling - C - C C LEC 105.12.8320(a) Secondary dwelling C P C P P C P LEC 105.12.8320(a) Live-work unit - C C C P LEC 105.12.8320(a) Group Living: Group home P C - P LEC 105.12.500 Group residential facility - C - C LEC 105.12.500 Congregate housing - C - C LEC 105.12.500 Semi-transient accommodations - - - C LEC 105.12.500 Public and Civic Uses: Community services - - - P LEC 105.12.110 Day care center - C - P LEC 105.12.110 Public assembly - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Religious institutions - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Schools, public and private - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Services: Business services - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Business center - - - P LEC 105.12.110 Offices - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Communications services - - - P LEC 105.12.110 Education services - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Financial institution - - C P LEC 105.12.110, V- HDR first floor only and drive- thru prohibited. VMX drive-thru by Conditional Use Permit. Funeral home - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Lodging - - C C 154.302(d) Medical facility - - C C LEC 105.12.510 Membership organization - - - C Nursing and personal care - - - C LEC 105.12.510 Personal services - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Repair and maintenance shop - - - C2 LEC 105.12.8320 Trade shop - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Veterinary services - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Food Services: Standard restaurant - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Restaurant with drive-through - - C C In VMX drive- thru shall be located in rear yard. LEC 105.12.520 Drinking and entertainment - - - P LEC 105.12.520 Sales of Merchandise: Retail trade 1 - - - P LEC 105.12.110 Farmer's market - - - C P Garden center - - - C LEC 105.12.960(g) 950 Neighborhood convenience store - C P C P LEC 105.12.110 Shopping center - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Wayside stand P - - P LEC 105.12.750 740(d) Automotive/Vehicular Uses: Automobile maintenance service - - - C2 LEC 105.12.830 820 Automobile parts/supply - - - C LEC 105.12.830 820 Gasoline station - - - C2 LEC 105.12.530(b) Parking facility - C C C LEC 105.12.830(b) 820 Sales and storage lots - - - C LEC 105.12.530(c) Outdoor Recreation: Outdoor recreation facility - C - C LEC 105.12.550(c) 540 Parks and open areas P P P P On public property or as an accessory use to serve residents of a primary use Indoor Recreation/Entertainment: Indoor athletic facility - C C C LEC 105.12.560 550 Indoor recreation - - - C LEC 105.12.560 550 Transportation and Communications: Broadcasting or communications facility - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Accessory Uses: Home occupation P P P P LEC 105.12.110 Bed and breakfast P - - P LEC 105.04.220(a) 12.110 Family day care P P - P LEC 105.12.110 Group family day care - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Temporary sales P P - P LEC 105.12.870(g) 830(h) Parking facility - - - P LEC 105.12.830 110 Solar equipment P P P P Roof mounted only 1 Retail Trade in the VMX District includes all uses and activities defined as Retail Trade in LEC 105.12.110(b) (5) with the exception of building supplies sales and warehouse club sales. 2 Uses shall only be located on lots fronting Stillwater Boulevard North/CSAH 14 or Manning Avenue/CSAH 15. 3 In the V-MDR district, single-family attached, duplexes, and townhomes/villa housing types may be permitted, as part of a PUD, but shall not exceed 25% of the development. 105.12.790 Lot Dimensions And Building Bulk Requirements Lot area and setback requirements shall be as specified in Table 11-2, Lot Dimension and Setback Requirements. Table 11-2: Lot Dimension and Setback Requirements, Villages Districts V-LDR V-MDR V-HDR VMX Minimum Lot Area (square feet): a Nonresidential use - - - None Single-family detached dwelling (front/rear loaded driveway) b 9,000/7,000 7,000 6,000/4,000 6,000/4,000 9,000 6,000/4,000 Two-family dwelling (per unit) b c - 4,000 2,500 2,500 4,000 2,500 Single-family attached (per unit) c d - 2,500 2,500 3,000 2500 Multifamily dwelling (per unit) - 3,000 1,800 2,800 Secondary dwelling See LEC 105.12.740(c) See LEC 105.12.740(c) See LEC 105.12.740(c) See LEC 105.12.740(c) Congregate housing - See LEC 105.12.500(c) - LEC 105.12.500(c) Minimum Lot Width (feet): Single-family detached dwelling (front/rear loaded driveway) b 70/50 50 60/40 60/40 70 60/40 Two-family dwelling (twin/vertical) (per unit) b c - 30/25 30/25 30/25 Single-family attached (per unit) c d - 25 25 25 Multifamily dwelling (per building) - 75 60 75 Live-work unit - 25 25 25 Maximum height (feet/stories)j 35 35/3 d 50 45/3 35/3 d e Maximum Impervious Coverage: Residential lots 35 percent 50 percent 75 percent 75 percent Other - - - No Limit Minimum Building Setbacks (feet): Front yard 25 25 25 Single-Family Detached and Attached: - 25 Multifamily Dwellings: -25 Non-Residential Uses: -25 Commercial/Mixed Use: 10 Interior Side Yard: Principal building 10 10 10 10 e f Principal building – Single-Family Detached 10 5 5 5 Attached garage or accessory structure 5 5 5 5 Corner side yard 15 15 10 15 10 0 f g Rear yardi 20 20 20 10 g h Notes to Village Districts Table: a. No development may exceed the residential density range as specified in the comprehensive plan for the corresponding land use category. b. In all districts except V-LDR: For single-family detached dwellings, driveway access is encouraged to be rear loaded to meet density requirements and Traditional Neighborhood Development design principles. Front loaded access is allowed for flexibility within the development but sh all not exceed 25% of the development. See 105.12.820-830 for parking requirements related to attached and detached garages. b c. Two-family units may be side-by-side with a party wall between them (twin) or located on separate floors (vertical) in a building on a single lot (duplex). The per-unit measurements in this table apply to twin units, whether on a single lot or separate lots. The standards for single -family detached dwelling shall apply to a duplex containing two vertically-separated units on a single lot. If a driveway through the front yard, along the side of building is proposed, the lot width shall increase by 10 feet or the width of the proposed driveway, whichever is greater. See 105.12.820(b). c d . In the case of single-family attached dwellings that are not situated on individual lots, minimum lot size shall be applied to each unit as a measure of density; i.e., one unit per 2,500 square feet. This standard is also used for multifamily dwellings. If a driveway through the front yard, along the side of the building is proposed, the lot width shall increase by 10 feet or the width of the proposed driveway, whichever is greater. See 105.12.820-830. Since dwellings are attached, interior side yards are not required. Buildings shall have a minimum separation of 20 feet. d e . Buildings up to 45 feet in height may be permitted as part of a PUD in the VMX district and V-MDR districts. e f. Side yard setbacks in the VMX district apply only along lot lines abutting residentially zoned parcels or those parcels with residential uses as the sole use. f g. Corner properties. The side yard facade of a corner building adjoining a public street shall maintain the front setback of the adjacent property fronting upon the same public street, or the required front yard setback, whichever is less. If no structure exists on the adjacent property, and provided required setbacks are not otherwise stated herein, the setback shall be shown in the table. g h. Properties zoned V-LDR abutting Stillwater Boulevard North (CSAH 14), Lake Elmo Avenue North (CSAH 17) north of Stillwater Blvd (CSAH 14), and Manning Avenue North (CSAH 15) shall have a minimum structure setback of 50 feet. i. Rear loaded detached garages, that open onto an alley, are not required to have a setback from the rear property line. j. Below grade/basement dwelling units shall be considered the first floor. 105.12.800 Dimensional Requirements And Preservation Of Open Space a) Averaging of lot area. When lots are clustered within a development to provide common open space, the open space may be used to calculate an average density per lot to determine compliance with the individual lot area requirements. b) Lot dimension reductions. Other reductions in dimensional standards may be considered as part of a planned unit development if these reductions provide for common open space within a development. 105.12.810 General Site Design Considerations; Village Districts Development of land within the village districts shall follow established standards for traffic circulation, landscape design, and other considerations as specified in the Lake Elmo City Code (LEC). Traditional Neighborhood Development principles shall be followed. a) The Lake Elmo Design Guidelines and Standards shall govern site design and building design. b) Circulation. 1. New access points to County State Aid Highway 14 may be refused or restricted to right-in, right-out movement if alternatives exist. Internal connections shall be provided between parking areas on adjacent properties wherever feasible. 2. The number and width of curb cuts shall be minimized. To promote pedestrian circulation, existing continuous curb cuts shall be reduced to widths necessary for vehicular traffic, and unnecessary or abandoned curb cuts shall be removed as parcels are developed. c) Screening of existing residential structures. When a new more intensive residential or non-residential development is proposed adjacent to an existing single -family residential structure, screening shall be provided in accordance with LEC 105.12.480 (f). The city may require buffering or screening above and beyond this section in cases where the required screening will not provide an adequate separation between the uses. d) Sidewalks and/or trails. Where cul-de-sacs are permitted by the city, sidewalks or trails are required to connect the bulb of the cul-de-sac with the nearest through- road or trail. e) Lake Elmo Theming Study. Elements of the Lake Elmo Theming Study not herein described must be incorporated in to development within village districts where applicable. f) Alley design. Alleys shall be privately owned and maintained by the homeowners’ association but shall be accessible to the public. Snow removal and grass cutting may be assigned to the abutting homeowner. 1. Alley dimensions. The easement width shall be a minimum of 32 feet. The roadway width shall be a minimum of 16 feet. The area between the property line and the edge of road shall be a minimum of 8 feet or half of the road width, whichever is greater and shall be provided on both sides of the road. Alley design shall be approved by the engineering department to ensure that adequate area is provided. 105.12.820 Development Standards For Specific Uses Development of land within the village districts shall follow established standards for traffic circulation, landscape design, and other considerations as specified by the Lake Elmo City Code (LEC). The following standards apply to specific uses. a) Residential units 1. Single-family detached dwellings. a. No parking shall be located in the front yard or between the front facade and the street except on a permitted driveway. b. Primary entrances are required to be along the front facade. c. Dwelling units shall be at least 24 feet in width, at least 960 square feet in area, and be placed on a permanent foundation. d. In districts outside of V-LDR: Parking for single-family detached units is encouraged to be accessible from a rear yard alley. 1. If a driveway through the front yard, along the side of the building is proposed, required parking shall be located in the rear yard or in an attached garage located behind the habitable area. 2. Front loaded garages are not permitted. e. Unless otherwise specified in this article, single-family detached dwellings in the VMX and V-HDR shall adhere to the V-MDR district setbacks. 2. Secondary dwellings. Restricted to lots occupied by single-family detached dwellings, and must meet the standards for secondary dwellings in residential districts, LEC 105.12.740(c) and, in the VMX, must be located within the primary structure. LEC 105.12.740(c)(4) shall not apply. In all districts except V-LDR, the minimum lot area shall meet the standard for two-family dwellings. 3. Single-family attached and two-family dwellings. a. The primary entrance to each unit shall be located on the facade fronting a public street. b. Common open space for use by all residents or private open space adjacent to each unit shall be provided. Such open space shall comprise of a minimum of 300 square feet in the V-HDR and VMX, and 500 square feet per unit in the V-MDR. c. Unless otherwise specified in this article, single-family attached dwellings in the VMX and V-MHDR shall adhere to the MDR district setbacks. d. No parking shall be located in the front yard or between the front façade and the street. e. Parking for single-family attached and two-family units is encouraged to be accessible from a rear yard alley. 1. If a driveway through the front yard, along the side of the building is proposed, only one driveway per building shall be approved. Required parking shall be located in the rear yard. f. Front loaded garages are not permitted. 4. Multifamily dwelling units. a. Dwelling units within a mixed-use building are restricted to the upper floors or rear or side ground floors. b. Setback standards for multifamily dwellings not within a mixed-use development shall be determined through the conditional use process. c. Common open space for use by all residents or private open space adjacent to each unit shall be provided. Such open space shall comprise of a minimum of 300 square feet per unit in the V-MDR and 200 square feet per unit in the V-HDR. d. No parking shall be located in the front yard or between the front façade and the street. Parking for multi-family dwelling units is encouraged to be accessible from a rear yard alley. Parking shall be located below grade or in the rear or interior side yard. 5. All other residential uses, VMX district. Setbacks for all other residential uses within the village districts not specifically outlined in this section shall be determined by either LEC 105.12.830 or through the conditional use process. b) Nonresidential uses. 1. Setbacks, generally. The front yard setback of a new nonresidential building within the VMX district shall maintain the prevailing front yard setback of that block, or a maximum setback of 20 feet, whichever is less. 2. Repair and maintenance shop. No outdoor storage is permitted unless fully screened from public view. 3. Trade shop. Exterior materials storage must be totally screened from view from adjacent public streets and adjacent residential properties by a wall of the principal structure or a screen wall constructed of the same materials as the principal structure. 4. Veterinary services. a. All activities must be conducted within an enclosed building. b. Specific veterinary practices shall be limited to veterinary medicine, surgery, dentistry, and related service for small domestic household pets. 5. Garden center. a. The storage or display of any materials or products shall meet all setback requirements of a structure, and shall be maintained in an orderly manner. Screening along the boundaries of adjacent residential properties may be required, meeting the standards of LEC 105.12.470(f). b. The storage of any soil, fertilizer or other loose, unpackaged materials shall be contained so as to prevent any effects on adjacent uses. 6. Automobile maintenance service and automobile parts/supply. a. All vehicle repairs shall be conducted in a completely enclosed building. b. The storage or display of inoperable or unlicensed vehicles or other equipment shall meet all setback requirements of a structure, and shall be totally screened from view from adjacent public streets and adjacent residential properties. 7. Live-work unit. The purpose of a live-work unit is to provide a transitional use type between a home occupation and a larger commercial enterprise while maintaining a generally residential character in which the work space is subordinate to the residential use and the effects of the work space are compatible with a residential use. a. The work space component shall be located on the first floor or basement of the building. b. The dwelling unit component shall maintain a separate entrance. c. The work space component of the unit shall not exceed 50 percent of the total gross floor area of the unit. d. A total of two off-street parking spaces shall be provided for a live- work unit, located to the rear of the unit, or underground/enclosed. e. The size and nature of the work space shall be limited so that the building type may be governed by residential building codes. f. The business component of the building may include offices, small service establishments, crafts considered accessory to a dwelling unit, limited retailing (by appointment only), or personal services. It may not include a large scale wholesale business, a commercial food service requiring a license, a limousine business or auto service or repair for any vehicles other than those registered to residents of the property. g. The business of the live-work unit must be conducted by a person who resides on the same lot. The business shall not employ more than two workers on-site at any one time who live outside of the live-work unit. 8. Parking facility. Structured parking is permitted as a ground floor use within a mixed-use building, provided that the entrance is located on side or rear facades, not facing the primary abutting street. The primary street-facing facade shall be designed for retail, office or residential use. 9. Outdoor dining accessory to food services. Outdoor dining is allowed as an accessory use provided that tables do not block the required sidewalk. 105.12.830 Accessory Uses And Structures Accessory uses are listed in Table 11-1 as permitted or conditional accessory uses. Accessory uses and structures in the village districts shall comply with the following standards and all other applicable regulations of this article: a) Phasing. No accessory use or structure shall be constructed or established on any lot prior to the time of construction of the principal use to which it is accessory. b) Incidental to principal use. The accessory use or structure shall be incidental to and customarily associated with the principal use or structure served. c) Subordinate to principal use. The accessory use or structure shall be subordinate in the area, extent, and purpose to the principal use or structure served. d) Function. The accessory use or structure shall contribute to the comfort, convenience, or necessity of the occupants of the principal use or structure served. e) Location. The accessory use or structure shall be located on the same zoning lot as the principal use or structure. f) Residential accessory structures. 1. Design compatibility. On parcels used for residential structures within the village districts, the design and construction of any garage, carport, or storage building shall be similar to or compatible with the design and construction of the main building. The exterior building materials, roof style, and colors shall be similar to or compatible with the main building or shall be commonly associated with residential construction. 2. Attached structures. An accessory structure shall be considered attached, and an integral part of, the principal structure when it is connected by an enclosed passageway. All attached accessory structures shall be subject to the following requirements: a. The structure shall meet the required yard setbacks for a principal structure, as established for the zoning district in which it is located. b. The structure shall not exceed the height of the principal building to which it is attached. 3. Attached garages. a. In the V-LDR district, Aattached garages on single-family detached structures are encouraged to be side or rear loaded. In all other districts, attached garages on single-family detached structures are required to be rear loaded. Attached garages on single-family attached, two-family, and multifamily structures shall be rear loaded. If facing the primary street, garages shall be designed using one of the following techniques, unless specific physical conditions on the lot in question require a different approach: 1. The front facade of the garage shall be offset from the principal structure by a minimum of two feet from the plane of the public right-of-way. 2. The width of the attached garage shall not exceed 40 percent of the width of the entire principal building facade (including garage) fronting the primary street. within the V-LDR district. where it shall not exceed 60 percent of the width of entire principal building facade (including garage) fronting the primary street. b. Attached garages shall not exceed 1,000 square feet in area at the ground floor level except by conditional use permit. c. Garage doors or openings shall not exceed 14 eight feet in height. 4. Detached structures. Detached accessory structures for permitted residential structures in the village districts must be in accordance with the following requirements: a. Detached accessory structures shall be located to the side or rear of the principal building, and are not permitted within the required front yard or within a side yard abutting a street. b. Detached garages shall not exceed 1,000 square feet at ground floor level and shall not exceed a height of 22 feet or the height of the principal structure, whichever is higher. The maximum size and height may be increased upon approval of a conditional use permit, provided that lot coverage requirements are satisfied. c. Detached garages shall be located in the rear yard and are encouraged to be rear loaded. d. Pole barns shall be prohibited. e. No more than 30 percent of the rear yard area may be covered by accessory structures. f. Garage doors or openings shall not exceed 14 eight feet in height for residential uses. g) Exterior storage on residential parcels. All materials and equipment shall be stored within a building or be fully screened so as not to be visible from adjoining properties, except for the following: 1. Laundry drying. 2. Construction and landscaping materials and equipment currently being used on the premises. Materials kept on the premises for a period exceeding six months shall be screened or stored out of view of the primary street on which the house fronts. 3. Agricultural equipment and materials, if these are used or intended for use on the premises. 4. Off-street parking and storage of vehicles and accessory equipment, as regulated in LEC 105.12.410. 5. Storage of firewood shall be kept at least ten feet from any habitable structure and screened from view of adjacent properties. 6. Outdoor parking. h) Temporary sales. Temporary sales, also known as yard or garage sales, are permitted in all residential districts, limited to two per calendar year per residence, not to exceed four days in length for each event. 105.12.840 Village Districts Design Review a) Review of design. For certain development activity, as specified in the Lake Elmo Design Standards Manual, design review is required as part of the approval process. All projects subject to design review shall be reviewed for conformance with the Lake Elmo Design Standards Manual. The Lake Elmo Design Standards Manual shall apply to all properties in the Village Area. A separate process for design review is not established. 1. Review authority and process. Design review shall be facilitated and reviewed by the planning community development department. The community development department shall approve or deny the application. The applicant may appeal the department’s decision to the City Council within 30 days of the date of the letter. The appeal shall be in writing and filed with the community development director. and the review shall be conducted by the City Council or individual authorized to approve the development activity. Design review shall be incorporated in the established review of the development activity. For those applications under this section that require review by the planning commission (i.e., conditional use permits), the planning commission shall consider the standards in the Lake Elmo Design Standards Manual in its recommendation to the city council. 2. Review by professional. The City Council or applicant may request review by a design professional of the proposed design or demolition. The City shall designate a design professional to conduct the review and the applicant shall be responsible for the costs incurred. 3. Development activity defined. a. Development activity consists of new construction and redevelopment activities, including remodeling that expands the footprint of a structure, altering, or repairing a structure in a manner that will change the exterior appearance of said structure. Development activity also includes the construction of a new parking lot and installation of signage. b. Exempt activities. The following activities shall be exempt from review under this section: 1. Ordinary repairs and maintenance that will not change the exterior appearance of a structure; 2. Removal of existing signage without replacement unless said signs are an integral part of the building; 3. Emergency repairs ordered by the City in order to protect public health and safety; 4. Exterior alteration, addition, or repair of a structure used as a single-family residence, duplex, or two-family residence; 5. Temporary signage, installed in accordance with the sign regulations of the city code, or during which time an application for permanent signage is pending under this section; 6. Maintenance of existing signage advertising an on-site business; 7. Alterations only to the interior of a structure. CITY OF LAKE ELMO COUNTY OF WASHINGTON STATE OF MINNESOTA ORDINANCE NO. 2024-14 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE LAKE ELMO CITY CODE BY AMENDING ARTICLE XIII VILLAGE DISTRICTS SECTION 1. The City Council of the City of Lake Elmo hereby amends Article XIII Village Districts. The City Code is hereby amended by changing the following sections (Proposed language is underlined, deleted language is shown with strikethrough): 105.12.770 Purpose And District Description The village districts encompass the Lake Elmo Village Planning Area. The village districts provide for an area of compact development including a mix of uses made mutually compatible through a combination of careful planning and urban design and coordinated public and private investment. The mixture of uses and level of density and intensity is intended to support the level of public infrastructure planned for the area. a) V-LDR Village Low Density Residential. The purpose of the V-LDR zoning district is to provide opportunity for lower density residential development within the Village Planning Area and to create a transition and connectivity between the heart of the Old Village and surrounding rural areas. Appropriate housing types in this area may include single-family detached housing. Residential development within areas zoned V-LDR will occur at a density of 1.5 to 3.00 units per acre. b) V-MDR Village Medium Density Residential. The purpose of the V-MDR is to provide an area for greater variety in housing stock and bring more people closer to living within easy access of Old Village destinations and amenities. The district shall consist primarily of higher density, single-family detached housing. Appropriate housing types in this area may include single-family detached, Single- family attached, duplexes, and townhomes/villa housing types shall not exceed 25% of the development. Residential development within areas zoned V-MDR will occur at a density of 3.01 to 8 units per acre. c) V-HDR Village High Density Residential. The purpose of the V-HDR is to provide an area for a variety of higher density housing types in the Village Planning Area and to bring a higher concentration of people closer to Old Village destinations and amenities. This area is intended to provide for opportunities for more housing at a wider range of price points and to provide lifecycle housing in Lake Elmo. Appropriate housing types in this area may include multi-family dwellings. First floor non-residential uses may be appropriate. Residential development within areas zoned V-HDR will occur at a density of 8.01 to 12 units per acre. d) VMX Village Mixed-Use District. This district is intended to continue the traditional mixed -use development that has occurred in the Old Village by allowing retail, service, office, civic and public uses as well as residential units. The mixture of land uses within the district is essential to establishing the level of vitality and intensity needed to support retail and service uses. Development within areas zoned VMX will occur at a density of 5 - 10 units per acre. Senior congregate care facilities may exceed this density maximum with a range not to exceed a total of 16 units per acre, provided the facility can satisfy all zoning and applicable conditional use permit review criteria. The placement of building edges and treatment of building, parking, landscaping, and pedestrian spaces is essential to creating the pedestrian friendly environment envisioned for the VMX district. 105.12.780 Permitted And Conditional Uses Table 11-1 lists all permitted and conditional uses allowed in the village districts. "P" indicates a permitted use, "C" a conditional use. Uses not so indicated shall be considered prohibited. Cross -references listed in the table under "Standards" indicate the location within this section of specific development standards that apply to the listed use. a) Combinations of uses. The following use types may be combined on a single parcel: 1. Principal and accessory uses may be combined on a single parcel. 2. Permitted or conditional uses allowed within the district may be combined on a single parcel, provided that a unified and integrated site plan is approved. If one or both of the uses is/are conditional, the entire development must be approved as a conditional use. b) STOPPED Combination of uses, VMX district. 1. A mixed-use building that combines permitted or conditionally permitted uses may be developed meeting the form standards of this subchapter. c) Non-Residential Uses. 1. On property zoned V-HDR, allowed non-residential uses shall be located permitted on the street level (first floor) only. Such use shall have its primary entrance from the front or side of the building. Table 11-1: Permitted and Conditional Uses, Village Districts V-LDR V-MDR V-HDR VMX Standard Residential Uses Household Living: Single-family detached dwelling P P P C P LEC 105.12.8320(a) Two-family dwelling3 - P* - P C* P Single-family attached dwelling3 - C - C C LEC 105.12.8320(a) Multifamily dwelling - C - C C LEC 105.12.8320(a) Secondary dwelling C P C P P C P LEC 105.12.8320(a) Live-work unit - C C C P LEC 105.12.8320(a) Group Living: Group home P C - P LEC 105.12.500 Group residential facility - C - C LEC 105.12.500 Congregate housing - C - C LEC 105.12.500 Semi-transient accommodations - - - C LEC 105.12.500 Public and Civic Uses: Community services - - - P LEC 105.12.110 Day care center - C - P LEC 105.12.110 Public assembly - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Religious institutions - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Schools, public and private - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Services: Business services - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Business center - - - P LEC 105.12.110 Offices - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Communications services - - - P LEC 105.12.110 Education services - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Financial institution - - C P LEC 105.12.110, V-HDR first floor only and drive-thru prohibited. VMX drive-thru by Conditional Use Permit. Funeral home - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Lodging - - C C 154.302(d) Medical facility - - C C LEC 105.12.510 Membership organization - - - C Nursing and personal care - - - C LEC 105.12.510 Personal services - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Repair and maintenance shop - - - C2 LEC 105.12.8320 Trade shop - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Veterinary services - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Food Services: Standard restaurant - - C P LEC 105.12.110 Restaurant with drive-through - - C C In VMX drive-thru shall be located in rear yard. LEC 105.12.520 Drinking and entertainment - - - P LEC 105.12.520 Sales of Merchandise: Retail trade 1 - - - P LEC 105.12.110 Farmer's market - - - C P Garden center - - - C LEC 105.12.960(g) 950 Neighborhood convenience store - C P C P LEC 105.12.110 Shopping center - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Wayside stand P - - P LEC 105.12.750 740(d) Automotive/Vehicular Uses: Automobile maintenance service - - - C2 LEC 105.12.830 820 Automobile parts/supply - - - C LEC 105.12.830 820 Gasoline station - - - C2 LEC 105.12.530(b) Parking facility - C C C LEC 105.12.830(b) 820 Sales and storage lots - - - C LEC 105.12.530(c) Outdoor Recreation: Outdoor recreation facility - C - C LEC 105.12.550(c) 540 Parks and open areas P P P P On public property or as an accessory use to serve residents of a primary use Indoor Recreation/Entertainment: Indoor athletic facility - C C C LEC 105.12.560 550 Indoor recreation - - - C LEC 105.12.560 550 Transportation and Communications: Broadcasting or communications facility - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Accessory Uses: Home occupation P P P P LEC 105.12.110 Bed and breakfast P - - P LEC 105.04.220(a) 12.110 Family day care P P - P LEC 105.12.110 Group family day care - - - C LEC 105.12.110 Temporary sales P P - P LEC 105.12.870(g) 830(h) Parking facility - - - P LEC 105.12.830 110 Solar equipment P P P P Roof mounted only 1 Retail Trade in the VMX District includes all uses and activities defined as Retail Trade in LEC 105.12.110(b) (5) with the exception of building supplies sales and warehouse club sales. 2 Uses shall only be located on lots fronting Stillwater Boulevard North/CSAH 14 or Manning Avenue/CSAH 15. 3 In the V-MDR district, single-family attached, duplexes, and townhomes/villa housing types may be permitted, as part of a PUD, but shall not exceed 25% of the development. 105.12.790 Lot Dimensions And Building Bulk Requirements Lot area and setback requirements shall be as specified in Table 11-2, Lot Dimension and Setback Requirements. Table 11-2: Lot Dimension and Setback Requirements, Villages Districts V-LDR V-MDR V-HDR VMX Minimum Lot Area (square feet): a Nonresidential use - - - None Single-family detached dwelling (front/rear loaded driveway) b 9,000/7,000 7,000 6,000/4,000 6,000/4,000 9,000 6,000/4,000 Two-family dwelling (per unit) b c - 4,000 2,500 2,500 4,000 2,500 Single-family attached (per unit) c d - 2,500 2,500 3,000 2500 Multifamily dwelling (per unit) - 3,000 1,800 2,800 Secondary dwelling See LEC 105.12.740(c) See LEC 105.12.740(c) See LEC 105.12.740(c) See LEC 105.12.740(c) Congregate housing - See LEC 105.12.500(c) - LEC 105.12.500(c) Minimum Lot Width (feet): Single-family detached dwelling (front/rear loaded driveway) b 70/50 50 60/40 60/40 70 60/40 Two-family dwelling (twin/vertical) (per unit) b c - 30/25 30/25 30/25 Single-family attached (per unit) c d - 25 25 25 Multifamily dwelling (per building) - 75 60 75 Live-work unit - 25 25 25 Maximum height (feet/stories)j 35 35/3 d 50 45/3 35/3 d e Maximum Impervious Coverage: Residential lots 35 percent 50 percent 75 percent 75 percent Other - - - No Limit Minimum Building Setbacks (feet): Front yard 25 25 25 Single-Family Detached and Attached: - 25 Multifamily Dwellings: -25 Non-Residential Uses: -25 Commercial/Mixed Use: 10 Interior Side Yard: Principal building 10 10 10 10 e f Principal building – Single-Family Detached 10 5 5 5 Attached garage or accessory structure 5 5 5 5 Corner side yard 15 15 10 15 10 0 f g Rear yardi 20 20 20 10 g h Notes to Village Districts Table: a. No development may exceed the residential density range as specified in the comprehensive plan for the corresponding land use category. b. In all districts except V-LDR: For single-family detached dwellings, driveway access is encouraged to be rear loaded to meet density requirements and Traditional Neighborhood Development design principles. Front loaded access is allowed for flexibility within the development but sh all not exceed 25% of the development. See 105.12.820-830 for parking requirements related to attached and detached garages. b c. Two-family units may be side-by-side with a party wall between them (twin) or located on separate floors (vertical) in a building on a single lot (duplex). The per-unit measurements in this table apply to twin units, whether on a single lot or separate lots. The standards for single-family detached dwelling shall apply to a duplex containing two vertically-separated units on a single lot. If a driveway through the front yard, along the side of building is proposed, the lot width shall increase by 10 feet or the width of the proposed driveway, whichever is greater. See 105.12.820(b). c d . In the case of single-family attached dwellings that are not situated on individual lots, minimum lot size shall be applied to each unit as a measure of density; i.e., one unit per 2,500 square feet. This standard is also used for multifamily dwellings. If a driveway through the front yard, along the side of the building is proposed, the lot width shall increase by 10 feet or the width of the proposed driveway, whichever is greater. See 105.12.820-830. Since dwellings are attached, interior side yards are not required. Buildings shall have a minimum separation of 20 feet. d e . Buildings up to 45 feet in height may be permitted as part of a PUD in the VMX district and V-MDR districts. e f. Side yard setbacks in the VMX district apply only along lot lines abutting residentially zoned parcels or those parcels with residential uses as the sole use. f g. Corner properties. The side yard facade of a corner building adjoining a public street shall maintain the front setback of the adjacent property fronting upon the same public street, or the required front yard setback, whichever is less. If no structure exists on the adjacent property, and provided required setbacks are not otherwise stated herein, the setback shall be shown in the table. g h. Properties zoned V-LDR abutting Stillwater Boulevard North (CSAH 14), Lake Elmo Avenue North (CSAH 17) north of Stillwater Blvd (CSAH 14), and Manning Avenue North (CSAH 15) shall have a minimum structure setback of 50 feet. i. Rear loaded detached garages, that open onto an alley, are not required to have a setback from the rear property line. j. Below grade/basement dwelling units shall be considered the first floor. 105.12.800 Dimensional Requirements And Preservation Of Open Space a) Averaging of lot area. When lots are clustered within a development to provide common open space, the open space may be used to calculate an average density per lot to determine compliance with the individual lot area requirements. b) Lot dimension reductions. Other reductions in dimensional standards may be considered as part of a planned unit development if these reductions provide for common open space within a development. 105.12.810 General Site Design Considerations; Village Districts Development of land within the village districts shall follow established standards for traffic circulation, landscape design, and other considerations as specified in the Lake Elmo City Code (LEC). Traditional Neighborhood Development principles shall be followed. a) The Lake Elmo Design Guidelines and Standards shall govern site design and building design. b) Circulation. 1. New access points to County State Aid Highway 14 may be refused or restricted to right-in, right- out movement if alternatives exist. Internal connections shall be provided between parking areas on adjacent properties wherever feasible. 2. The number and width of curb cuts shall be minimized. To promote pedestrian circulation, existing continuous curb cuts shall be reduced to widths necessary for vehicular traffic, and unnecessary or abandoned curb cuts shall be removed as parcels are developed. c) Screening of existing residential structures. When a new more intensive residential or non-residential development is proposed adjacent to an existing single-family residential structure, screening shall be provided in accordance with LEC 105.12.480 (f). The city may require buffering or screening above and beyond this section in cases where the required screening will not provide an adequate separation between the uses. d) Sidewalks and/or trails. Where cul-de-sacs are permitted by the city, sidewalks or trails are required to connect the bulb of the cul-de-sac with the nearest through-road or trail. e) Lake Elmo Theming Study. Elements of the Lake Elmo Theming Study not herein described must be incorporated in to development within village districts where applicable. f) Alley design. Alleys shall be privately owned and maintained by the homeowners’ association but shall be accessible to the public. Snow removal and grass cutting may be assigned to the abutting homeowner. 1. Alley dimensions. The easement width shall be a minimum of 32 feet. The roadway width shall be a minimum of 16 feet. The area between the property line and the edge of road shall be a minimum of 8 feet or half of the road width, whichever is greater and shall be provided on both sides of the road. Alley design shall be approved by the engineering department to ensure that adequate area is provided. 105.12.820 Development Standards For Specific Uses Development of land within the village districts shall follow established standards for traffic circulation, landscape design, and other considerations as specified by the Lake Elmo City Code (LEC). The following standards apply to specific uses. a) Residential units 1. Single-family detached dwellings. a. No parking shall be located in the front yard or between the front facade and the street except on a permitted driveway. b. Primary entrances are required to be along the front facade. c. Dwelling units shall be at least 24 feet in width, at least 960 square feet in area, and be placed on a permanent foundation. d. In districts outside of V-LDR: Parking for single-family detached units is encouraged to be accessible from a rear yard alley. 1. If a driveway through the front yard, along the side of the building is proposed, required parking shall be located in the rear yard or in an attached garage located behind the habitable area. 2. Front loaded garages are not permitted. e. Unless otherwise specified in this article, single-family detached dwellings in the VMX and V-HDR shall adhere to the V-MDR district setbacks. 2. Secondary dwellings. Restricted to lots occupied by single-family detached dwellings, and must meet the standards for secondary dwellings in residential districts, LEC 105.12.740(c) and, in the VMX, must be located within the primary structure. LEC 105.12.740(c)(4) shall not apply. In all districts except V-LDR, the minimum lot area shall meet the standard for two-family dwellings. 3. Single-family attached and two-family dwellings. a. The primary entrance to each unit shall be located on the facade fronting a public street. b. Common open space for use by all residents or private open space adjacent to each unit shall be provided. Such open space shall comprise of a minimum of 300 square feet in the V-HDR and VMX, and 500 square feet per unit in the V-MDR. c. Unless otherwise specified in this article, single-family attached dwellings in the VMX and V-MHDR shall adhere to the MDR district setbacks. d. No parking shall be located in the front yard or between the front façade and the street. e. Parking for single-family attached and two-family units is encouraged to be accessible from a rear yard alley. 1. If a driveway through the front yard, along the side of the building is proposed, only one driveway per building shall be approved. Required parking shall be located in the rear yard. f. Front loaded garages are not permitted. 4. Multifamily dwelling units. a. Dwelling units within a mixed-use building are restricted to the upper floors or rear or side ground floors. b. Setback standards for multifamily dwellings not within a mixed-use development shall be determined through the conditional use process. c. Common open space for use by all residents or private open space adjacent to each unit shall be provided. Such open space shall comprise of a minimum of 300 square feet per unit in the V-MDR and 200 square feet per unit in the V-HDR. d. No parking shall be located in the front yard or between the front façade and the street. Parking for multi-family dwelling units is encouraged to be accessible from a rear yard alley. Parking shall be located below grade or in the rear or interior side yard. 5. All other residential uses, VMX district. Setbacks for all other residential uses within the village districts not specifically outlined in this section shall be determined by either LEC 105.12.830 or through the conditional use process. b) Nonresidential uses. 1. Setbacks, generally. The front yard setback of a new nonresidential building within the VMX district shall maintain the prevailing front yard setback of that block, or a maximum setback of 20 feet, whichever is less. 2. Repair and maintenance shop. No outdoor storage is permitted unless fully screened from public view. 3. Trade shop. Exterior materials storage must be totally screened from view from adjacent public streets and adjacent residential properties by a wall of the principal structure or a screen wall constructed of the same materials as the principal structure. 4. Veterinary services. a. All activities must be conducted within an enclosed building. b. Specific veterinary practices shall be limited to veterinary medicine, surgery, dentistry, and related service for small domestic household pets. 5. Garden center. a. The storage or display of any materials or products shall meet all setback requirements of a structure, and shall be maintained in an orderly manner. Screening along the boundaries of adjacent residential properties may be required, meeting the standards of LEC 105.12.470(f). b. The storage of any soil, fertilizer or other loose, unpackaged materials shall be contained so as to prevent any effects on adjacent uses. 6. Automobile maintenance service and automobile parts/supply. a. All vehicle repairs shall be conducted in a completely enclosed building. b. The storage or display of inoperable or unlicensed vehicles or other equipment shall meet all setback requirements of a structure, and shall be totally screened from view from adjacent public streets and adjacent residential properties. 7. Live-work unit. The purpose of a live-work unit is to provide a transitional use type between a home occupation and a larger commercial enterprise while maintaining a generally residential character in which the work space is subordinate to the residential use and the effects of the work space are compatible with a residential use. a. The work space component shall be located on the first floor or basement of the building. b. The dwelling unit component shall maintain a separate entrance. c. The work space component of the unit shall not exceed 50 percent of the total gross floor area of the unit. d. A total of two off-street parking spaces shall be provided for a live-work unit, located to the rear of the unit, or underground/enclosed. e. The size and nature of the work space shall be limited so that the building type may be governed by residential building codes. f. The business component of the building may include offices, small service establishments, crafts considered accessory to a dwelling unit, limited retailing (by appointment only), or personal services. It may not include a large scale wholesale business, a commercial food service requiring a license, a limousine business or auto service or repair for any vehicles other than those registered to residents of the property. g. The business of the live-work unit must be conducted by a person who resides on the same lot. The business shall not employ more than two workers on-site at any one time who live outside of the live-work unit. 8. Parking facility. Structured parking is permitted as a ground floor use within a mixed-use building, provided that the entrance is located on side or rear facades, not facing the primary abutting street. The primary street-facing facade shall be designed for retail, office or residential use. 9. Outdoor dining accessory to food services. Outdoor dining is allowed as an accessory use provided that tables do not block the required sidewalk. 105.12.830 Accessory Uses And Structures Accessory uses are listed in Table 11-1 as permitted or conditional accessory uses. Accessory uses and structures in the village districts shall comply with the following standards and all other applicable regulations of this article: a) Phasing. No accessory use or structure shall be constructed or established on any lot prior to the time of construction of the principal use to which it is accessory. b) Incidental to principal use. The accessory use or structure shall be incidental to and customarily associated with the principal use or structure served. c) Subordinate to principal use. The accessory use or structure shall be subordinate in the area, extent, and purpose to the principal use or structure served. d) Function. The accessory use or structure shall contribute to the comfort, convenience, or necessity of the occupants of the principal use or structure served. e) Location. The accessory use or structure shall be located on the same zoning lot as the principal use or structure. f) Residential accessory structures. 1. Design compatibility. On parcels used for residential structures within the village districts, the design and construction of any garage, carport, or storage building shall be similar to or compatible with the design and construction of the main building. The exterior building materials, roof style, and colors shall be similar to or compatible with the main building or shall be commonly associated with residential construction. 2. Attached structures. An accessory structure shall be considered attached, and an integral part of, the principal structure when it is connected by an enclosed passageway. All attached accessory structures shall be subject to the following requirements: a. The structure shall meet the required yard setbacks for a principal structure, as established for the zoning district in which it is located. b. The structure shall not exceed the height of the principal building to which it is attached. 3. Attached garages. a. In the V-LDR district, Aattached garages on single-family detached structures are encouraged to be side or rear loaded. In all other districts, attached garages on single- family detached structures are required to be rear loaded. Attached garages on single- family attached, two-family, and multifamily structures shall be rear loaded. If facing the primary street, garages shall be designed using one of the following techniques, unless specific physical conditions on the lot in question require a different approach: 1. The front facade of the garage shall be offset from the principal structure by a minimum of two feet from the plane of the public right-of-way. 2. The width of the attached garage shall not exceed 40 percent of the width of the entire principal building facade (including garage) fronting the primary street. within the V-LDR district. where it shall not exceed 60 percent of the width of entire principal building facade (including garage) fronting the primary street. b. Attached garages shall not exceed 1,000 square feet in area at the ground floor level except by conditional use permit. c. Garage doors or openings shall not exceed 14 eight feet in height. 4. Detached structures. Detached accessory structures for permitted residential structures in the village districts must be in accordance with the following requirements: a. Detached accessory structures shall be located to the side or rear of the principal building, and are not permitted within the required front yard or within a side yard abutting a street. b. Detached garages shall not exceed 1,000 square feet at ground floor level and shall not exceed a height of 22 feet or the height of the principal structure, whichever is higher. The maximum size and height may be increased upon approval of a conditional use permit, provided that lot coverage requirements are satisfied. c. Detached garages shall be located in the rear yard and are encouraged to be rear loaded. d. Pole barns shall be prohibited. e. No more than 30 percent of the rear yard area may be covered by accessory structures. f. Garage doors or openings shall not exceed 14 eight feet in height for residential uses. g) Exterior storage on residential parcels. All materials and equipment shall be stored within a building or be fully screened so as not to be visible from adjoining properties, except for the following: 1. Laundry drying. 2. Construction and landscaping materials and equipment currently being used on the premises. Materials kept on the premises for a period exceeding six months shall be screened or stored out of view of the primary street on which the house fronts. 3. Agricultural equipment and materials, if these are used or intended for use on the premises. 4. Off-street parking and storage of vehicles and accessory equipment, as regulated in LEC 105.12.410. 5. Storage of firewood shall be kept at least ten feet from any habitable structure and screened from view of adjacent properties. 6. Outdoor parking. h) Temporary sales. Temporary sales, also known as yard or garage sales, are permitted in all residential districts, limited to two per calendar year per residence, not to exceed four days in length for each event. 105.12.840 Village Districts Design Review a) Review of design. For certain development activity, as specified in the Lake Elmo Design Standards Manual, design review is required as part of the approval process. All projects subject to design review shall be reviewed for conformance with the Lake Elmo Design Standards Manual. The Lake Elmo Design Standards Manual shall apply to all properties in the Village Area. A separate process for design review is not established. 1. Review authority and process. Design review shall be facilitated and reviewed by the planning community development department. The community development department shall approve or deny the application. The applicant may appeal the department’s decision to the City Council within 30 days of the date of the letter. The appeal shall be in writing and filed with the community development director. and the review shall be conducted by the City Council or individual authorized to approve the development activity. Design review shall be incorporated in the established review of the development activity. For those applications under this section that require review by the planning commission (i.e., conditional use permits), the planning commission shall consider the standards in the Lake Elmo Design Standards Manual in its recommendation to the city council. 2. Review by professional. The City Council or applicant may request review by a design professional of the proposed design or demolition. The City shall designate a design professional to conduct the review and the applicant shall be responsible for the costs incurred. 3. Development activity defined. a. Development activity consists of new construction and redevelopment activities, including remodeling that expands the footprint of a structure, altering, or repairing a structure in a manner that will change the exterior appearance of said structure. Development activity also includes the construction of a new parking lot and installation of signage. b. Exempt activities. The following activities shall be exempt from review under this section: 1. Ordinary repairs and maintenance that will not change the exterior appearance of a structure; 2. Removal of existing signage without replacement unless said signs are an integral part of the building; 3. Emergency repairs ordered by the City in order to protect public health and safety; 4. Exterior alteration, addition, or repair of a structure used as a single-family residence, duplex, or two-family residence; 5. Temporary signage, installed in accordance with the sign regulations of the city code, or during which time an application for permanent signage is pending under this section; 6. Maintenance of existing signage advertising an on-site business; 7. Alterations only to the interior of a structure. SECTION 2. Effective Date. This ordinance shall become effective immediately upon adoption and publication in the official newspaper of the City of Lake Elmo. SECTION 3. Adoption Date. This Ordinance 2024-14 was adopted on this 17th day of September, 2024 by a vote of __ Ayes and ___Nays. LAKE ELMO CITY COUNCIL _________________________________ Charles Cadenhead, Mayor ATTEST: ___________________________ Julie Johnson, City Clerk This Ordinance 2024-14 was published on the ____ day of ___________________, 2024. CITY OF LAKE ELMO COUNTY OF WASHINGTON STATE OF MINNESOTA RESOLUTION NO. 2024-098 RESOLUTION AUTHORIZING PUBLICATION OF A SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE 2024 – 14 WHEREAS, the Lake Elmo City Council has adopted Ordinance No. 2024-14, an ordinance that amends Article XIII Village Districts. WHEREAS, the ordinance is lengthy; and WHEREAS, Minnesota Statutes, section 412.191, subd. 4, allows publication by title and summary in the case of lengthy ordinances or those containing charts or maps; and WHEREAS, the City Council believes that the following summary would clearly inform the public of the intent and effect of the ordinance. NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Lake Elmo that the City Clerk shall cause the following summary of Ordinance No. 2024-14 to be published in the official newspaper in lieu of the entire ordinance: Public Notice The City Council of the City of Lake Elmo has adopted Ordinance No. 2024-14, an ordinance that amends the City Code language related to Article XIII Village Districts. This ordinance alters language in the City Code to update regulations and correct conflicting or outdated references. The following is a summary of the adopted ordinance language: Ordinance 2024-14 includes the following elements to amend Article XIII Village Districts. 1. Updates regulations 2. Corrects conflicting or outdated references The full text of Ordinance 2024-14 is available for inspection at Lake Elmo City Offices during regular business hours. BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Lake Elmo that the City Administrator keep a copy of the ordinance at City Hall for public inspection and that a full copy of the ordinance be placed in a public location within the City. Dated: September 17, 2024 ___________________________________ Charles Cadenhead, Mayor ATTEST: ____________________________________ Julie Johnson, City Clerk (SEAL) 1City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 City of Lake Elmo DESIGN GUIDELINES & STANDARDS MANUAL 2 City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 This page left blank intentionally. 3City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 Chapter 1: Introduction ..................................................5 Intent and Purpose Areas of Growth Structure of the Standards Compliance Chapter 2: High Density Residential Development ...7 A.Site Design ........................................................7 Building Placement Streetscape Landscaping Parking Delivery, Service, Storage and Utility Areas B.Building Design .................................................9 Form and Facade Building Materials Scale and Mass Roof Design Entries Lighting Signage Chapter 3: Commercial Development ......................13 A.Site Design ......................................................13 Building Placement Streetscape Landscaping Parking Delivery, Service, Storage and Utility Areas B.Building Design ...............................................15 Form and Facade Building Materials Scale and Mass Roof Design Entries Lighting Signage Chapter 4: Business Park Development ...................19 A.Site Design ......................................................19 Building Placement Streetscape Landscaping Parking Delivery, Service, Storage and Utility Areas B.Building Design ...............................................21 Form and Facade Building Materials Scale and Mass Roof Design Entries Lighting Signage Chapter 5: Mixed Use Development ..........................25 A.Site Design ......................................................25 Building Placement Streetscape Landscaping Parking Delivery, Service, Storage and Utility Areas B.Building Design ...............................................27 Form and Facade Building Materials Scale and Mass Roof Design Entries Lighting Signage Table of ConTenTs 4 City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 This page left blank intentionally. 5City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 Introduction1 1.To ensure high quality site design and building materials, supporting both function and form 2.To provide open space in future areas of growth, building off of Lake Elmo’s existing character and environment 3. To accommodate automobile traffic in a manner that respects the pedestrian environment 4.To utilize natural and ecological systems into public and private development, particularly in the realm of storm water management 5.To encourage site design that is mindful and conscientious of the existing landscape and topography 6.To foster connections between the new and existing areas of Lake Elmo through consistent standards and theming, resulting in an identity that is unique to this community highway-oriented by nature, offering good opportu- nities for higher density and commercial develop- ment. In addition, the City has envisioned this area to provide increased employment opportunities in Lake Elmo. Old Village. The Old Village is located in the heart of Lake Elmo, centered along State Highway 5 and bordered to the east by CR-15 (Manning Ave.) and to the south by 30th St. and includes all properties within the Village MUSA. As the historic center of Lake Elmo, the Old Village is guided for residential and mixed-use development types, which are consistent with historic downtown areas. In order to reinforce the identity of the Old Village as a des-tination, it is the City’s goal to emphasize a posi-tive pedestrian environment, consistent with main street character. Given this vision and the historic context, the Old Village will most likely attract dif-ferent development types than the I-94 Corridor. Considering the character, geography, and visions for these two growth areas, it is unreasonable to expect that the development types will be the same. However, in order to establish standards for high quality sites and buildings in Lake Elmo, the design standards laid out in this manual will be applicable to development in these areas. Intent and Purpose The City of Lake Elmo is currently preparing for a significant amount of growth and development in two areas of the city: the I-94 Corridor and Old Village. To ensure that growth is carried out in a manner reflective of the goals and principles of Lake Elmo, measures are being taken to ensure development outcomes of a high quality. Included in these measures is the creation of design stan- dards, establishing requirements and guidelines related to site design and building form. The pur- pose of these standards is to incorporate the fol- lowing principles in residential and commercial development outcomes in the Metropolitan Urban Service Area (MUSA). The largest areas guided for sewered residential and commercial development in Lake Elmo are the I-94 Corridor and Old Village. While both of these areas are guided for future growth and have ample greenfield development opportunity, it is important to recognize the differences between these districts as they pertain to geography and character. These differences will play a major role in the types of development that are realized in each area. Areas of Growth The Metropolitan Urban Services Area depicts the areas identified for growth. I-94 Corridor. The I-94 Corridor is geographically bounded by CR-10 (10th St.) and I-94 from north to south and CR-15 (Manning Ave.) to CR-13 (In- wood Ave.) from east to west. The City has guided this corridor for residential development of vari- ous densities, as well as commercial and business park development. Given its location and high level of access, the vision for this corridor is more 6 City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 InTroduCTIon 1.High Density Residential; 2.Commercial; 3.Business Park; and 4.Mixed-Use. In addition to land use types, the standards are organized into two primary categories: Site Design and Building Design. The standards contained within these categories are organized using the following sub-categories: 1. Site Design •Building Placement •Streetscape •Landscaping •Parking •Delivery, Service, Storage and Utility Areas 2. Building Design •Form and Facade •Building Materials •Scale and Mass •Roof Design •Entries •Signage •Lighting These categories and respective sub-categories are intended to organize the specific standards within each land use or development type. Compliance As part of the City’s development review process, any new development, redevelopment, or major renovation will be reviewed for compliance to the standards contained within this manual. Design review will be completed within the established review process at the stage of final development or building approval. This review will be conducted by the individual or body authorizing the permit or certificate. Exceptions to the standards contained within the manual may be granted by the Review Authority under at least one of, but not limited to, the follow- ing circumstances: •The proposed project is found to be of an archi- tectural value above and beyond the accepted standard and therefore a community asset. •The proposed project demonstrates a commit- ment to theming elements and open-space character, thereby supporting Lake Elmo’s unique identity. •The proposed project is found to prioritize pedestrian circulation and safety, including streetscape treatments above the minimum standards that contribute to a positive pedes- trian environment. •The proposed project demonstrates a signifi- cant commitment to natural storm water man- agement practices. •The proposed project includes a significant commitment to sustainable building practices, similar to the standards required for LEED cer- tification. In order to receive relief or exception to the stan- dards within the manual, it is the responsibility of the applicant to demonstrate why a specific stan- dard presents an unreasonable burden in the con- text of the proposed site or project. Structure of the Standards The standards contained within this manual are structured in a manner that establishes standards and desired outcomes for private development sites within the MUSA. The four land use types, or development types, addressed in this manual are as follows: 7City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 High Density Residential Development2 This growth will be comprised of single-family attached (townhome) development and multi- family residential development, including apartments and condominiums. For residential development, the intent of the design standards is to provide housing of a high aesthetic quality with open or recreational spaces integrated directly into the site. Single-family detached new development, located in the Village Area, shall conform to these guidelines. A. Site Design Building Placement Goal: Structures should be located and oriented in a manner that allows for pedestrian accessibility and provides visual interest from the public right of way. a.Buildings are encouraged to be located as close to the public street as possible while still meeting the setback requirement. In addition, the setbacks of adjacent residential buildings are encouraged to be varied slightly to contrib- ute to an interesting streetscape, avoiding mo- notonous facade or wall depth. b.Buildings should be easily accessed from the street, particularly near commercial or mixed- use development. c.The area fronting the main public street, or front-yard setback area, should be utilized for entryways, landscaping, porches, patios and other amenities that may be utilized by resi- dents and provide visual interest or a sense of place. d.Recreational and common spaces should be located at the interior or rear of the site to pro- mote access and safety for residents. Keep- ing these spaces out of the front of the site also helps maintain visual interest and attrac- tive sight lines. e.Some provision of open or common space on the site is required to maintain Lake Elmo’s open space character. This provision can be found in the Lake Elmo City Code. Applicable Zoning Districts: •High Density Residential (HDR) (V-HDR) •Medium Density Residential (MDR) (V-MDR) •Low Density Residential (LDR) (V-LDR) Common open or recreation spaces should be located to the interior or rear of the site. Buildings are encouraged to be sited closer to public streets to promote access and visual interest. 8 City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 HIgH densIT y resIdenTIal developmenT Streetscape Goal: Residential streetscapes should provide for pedestrian accessibility and safety while offering aesthetically pleasing environments. a.Sidewalks shall be provided parallel to public streets in order to ensure pedestrian accessi- bility and circulation. b.Sidewalk materials should be attractive and low-maintenance, such as concrete or decora- tive pavers. c.Boulevard areas should planted with turf grass and/or other attractive, low-maintenance ground cover. In addition, boulevard trees should be provided in regular intervals. d.Site furnishings such as benches, pedestrian- scaled lighting, decorative fencing, trash recep- tacles and other amenities are recommended. Applicants are encouraged to utilize design el- ements and site amenities from the Lake Elmo Branding & Theming Study. e.Paths and access points/entryways should be clearly visible and well lit at night. Landscaping Goal: To enhance the visual aesthetic of the built environment and reduce impervious surface, thereby aiding storm water management practice. a.Shade and ornamental trees and other plant material should be installed within the front setback area. b.Bare soils should be planted or mulched with bark, stone or other suitable material to avoid unnecessary runoff. c.Plant species are encouraged to be native, low- maintenance and suitable to the Lake Elmo cli- mate. d.Making use of similar plant materials as adja- cent properties and public spaces is encour- aged to create continuity. e.Mature trees located on building sites should be retained whenever possible. f.Service, storage, utility and parking areas should be buffered by plantings to reduce vi- sual impact. g.Parking areas should include landscaped is- lands or plant beds to reduce the visual im- pact, break up monotonous hardscape and retain storm water. At left: Pedestrian amenities contribute to an inviting and functional streetscape. Decorative fencing provides a nice transition from the public right of way to the entryway. 9City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 HIgH densIT y resIdenTIal developmenT Parking Goal: To accommodate automobile parking in a manner that reduces visual impact, supports pe- destrian circulation and maintains good sight lines along the public right of way. a.Parking areas should shall be located to the rear, side or within primary buildings whenever possible. b.Structured or underground parking is encour- aged. c.The linear measurement of surface parking ar- eas parallel to the public street may not exceed more than 50% of primary street frontages. Sites or projects that are unable to meet this requirement will be required to install berms and/or additional landscaping to buffer areas of surface parking adjacent to the primary street frontage. d.Access to parking areas should shall be designed in a way that does not impede pedestrian traffic. e.Parking should be screened from adjacent structures with landscaping strips not exceed- ing 4 feet in height in order to ensure pedes- trian safety. f.Lighting must be provided in parking areas at night for safety purposes. However, direct glare, spillover or other forms of light pollution directed at adjacent properties are prohibited. g.Parking facilities must be ADA compliant when deemed necessary. Delivery, Service, Storage and Utility Areas Goal: To minimize the visual impact of storage and utility areas within residential developments. a.Exterior storage and utility areas should shall be located in low trafficked areas and screened from adjacent properties. b.Trash enclosures should shall be located so that noise and odor do not affect nearby residents or adjacent properties. c.Screening of storage and utility areas may in- clude landscaping and architectural features that match the primary structure. d.Storage areas should match the architectural design of the primary structure. e.Utilize directional signage for storage and trash areas when appropriate. B.Building Design Form and Facade Goal: Standards are intended to ensure high quality design, encourage creativity and promote visually appealing development, thereby cultivating a sense of place and identity. a.Blank facades without windows and doors are discouraged. All sides of the structures shall have architectural treatments. b.Window and door styles should shall reflect the pre-vailing architectural style of the structure. c.Window sills and trim are required for all exte- rior windows. d.Flat panel exterior and garage doors are dis- couraged. e.Garages should shall be recessed from the facade of the principal structure whenever possible to draw visual attention away from parking areas. f.If there are multiple garages within a struc- ture, they should be varied in their location to minimize the visual impact of a row of garage doors. Lighting should be down-cast and shielded to prevent glare or spill-over onto adjacent properties. Attached units on a public street benefit from individual entries. 10 City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 HIgH densIT y resIdenTIal developmenT g.Detached garages shall be architecturally con- sistent with the principal structure. h.Finished exterior materials shall be applied to all wall facades above 18 inches from the finished grade line, where unfinished exterior foundation may be visible. i.Ground level of multi-family structures should be distinguished architecturally from upper levels to provide human-scale elements for pe- destrians. j.Living space below the main building level, such as a walkout structure, may not be visible from the front side of the structure facing the main public street. k.Split entry type structures are discouraged. l.Where individual units face a public street, each unit should shall be designed with a walkway from the sidewalk to the front entry feature. m.Entryways to individual units should shall contain an entryway feature, such as a porch or portico. Building Materials Goal: To offer a variety of attractive and quality build- ing materials that will shape the identity and visual interest of residential development in Lake Elmo. a.All structure facades should utilize multiple building materials. b.Changes in facade building materials should occur at clean horizontal and vertical separa- tions, such as at building levels or architectural features. c.Siding materials should emphasize horizontal lines to reduce the appearance of height and mass. d.Multiple facade colors are encouraged as long as they are balanced and consistent. e.Primary building materials for residential struc- tures should shall include brick, finished wood, fiber cement, stone, quality metals, glass, cast-stone, or pre-cast concrete panels with aggregate, banding, testuring, or other similar decorative finish. f.Exposed exterior building materials such as brick, stone, wood, or stucco should be au- thentic. Simulated materials may also be used if demonstrated to be of high quality and ap- proved by the City. g.Materials which are prohibited as the primary facade material include the following: • Vinyl siding • Unpainted galvanized metal •Corrugated metal, plastic, or fiberglass • Plain, unpainted, or painted concrete block • Prefabricated concrete panels h.Roofing materials should consist of composition shingles, wood shakes, or clay or stone tiles. Metal used as a roofing material must incorpo- rate ribs or standing seams to be acceptable. Scale and Mass Goal: To establish parameters for building horizon- tally and vertically with a human scale in mind. a.Building volume should be broken up with re- cesses and projections such as balconies, bay windows, dormers, porches, and other features that provide variation and identity. b.Mass should be reduced through facade artic- ulation, breaking up the wall area into smaller sections. c.Architectural elements, such as dormers, deco- rative windows and trim, porch details, decora- tive shutters, and wainscoting, can reduce the appearance of bulk and mass by providing vi- sual interest. d.Building mass should be broken up with mul- tiple roof and ridgelines perpendicular with one another. e.Structures of two-stories or higher should have articulated facades to minimize the appear- ance of mass, as well as multiple roof lines with corresponding gables. f.Scale should be reduced by utilizing “step- down” methods towards the public street. Porches, entries, window-bays or bump-out are effective in this regard. Building Mass is reduced by breaking the building up into smaller sections and “stepping-back” levels above the ground floor. Source: www.minnpost.com 11City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 HIgH densIT y resIdenTIal developmenT Roof Design Goal: To break up monotonous roof lines, add ar- chitectural detail and screen rooftop equipment. a.All rooftop equipment and must be screened using materials consistent with the overall ar- chitecture, particularly on roofs that are visible from adjacent buildings. b.Multiple peaks and ridgelines are encouraged to promote greater visual interest. c.Dormers are encouraged to break up continu- ous rooftop. d.Providing architectural detail on soffits and fas- cias are encouraged. Entries Goal: To encourage entryways of high architectural quality that emphasize access, safety, and a hu- man scale. a.Primary building entries shall be visible and connected to the street sidewalk by the most direct route practical. However, some cur- vature in design for aesthetic purposes is al- lowed. b.Each building should have one or more clear- ly identifiable “front doors” that address the street and include signage denoting property address. c.Building entries should incorporate design ele- ments or architectural treatments, such as aw- nings, columns or cornices to emphasize the primary entryway. d.Primary communal entryways are encouraged to be recessed to offer shelter from inclement weather. Units with individual exterior entries are encouraged to include porches, covered recesses or covered stoops. e.Ground floor residences that adjoin a public street or open space shall have direct access to the public street or open space. f.For units with individual exterior entries, small, landscaped private entry yards afford an at- tractive appearance on the street side and al- low residents to take pride in these areas. Lighting Goal: To provide for safety and visual interest, while respecting the City’s dark sky ordinance. a.Lighting should be provided in all common ar- eas, including parking, vehicular and pedes- trian entries, walkways and common facilities (mailboxes, pools, etc.). b.Lighting height shall be consistent with the City’s exterior lighting standards. c.Service area lighting shall be confined within the service yard boundaries and enclosure walls. d.Spill-over light from storage or service areas is not allowed. Lights at service or exit doors shall be limited to low wattage, downcast or low cut-off fixtures that remain on throughout the night. e.Accent lighting should be used to draw interest to architectural features or entryways and not to exhibit or advertise buildings. Architectural lighting must be downcast and shielded to pre- vent light pollution. f.Bare bulb or exposed neon lighting is not al- lowed for accentuating building form. Signage Goal: Residential signage should be subtle in na- ture and utilized to promote building identity and to properly direct automobile and pedestrian traffic. a.Signs shall be consistent with the architectural style of the building on which they are placed, in- cluding scale, lighting levels, color and material. b.Signs shall be constructed of quality materials. c.All signage should be illuminated and clearly visible after dark. d.Signs are encouraged to be creative in the use of two and three-dimensional forms, lighting and graphic design, and use of color, patterns, typography, and materials. e.Interior vehicle and pedestrian routes should be clearly marked. f.All buildings are encouraged to incorporate el- ements of community theming in appropriate signage, supporting district and city identity. 12 City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 This page left blank intentionally. 13City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 ParkingCommercial Development3 The future commercial areas will include a variety of service, office, retail and other uses that will serve existing and future Lake Elmo residents and beyond. While the differences in character and geography of these two growth areas may attract different types of commercial uses, it is important to establish standards that will ensure quality development outcomes regardless of location and use classification. In the commercial districts, quality development outcomes consist of buildings of high architectural quality and sites that function well for all users, both drivers and pedestrians. A.Site Design Building Placement Goal: To ensure access and circulation for all users in a manner that minimizes traffic disruption and safety concerns, as well as maintains good sightlines from the public street. a.Buildings must be setback at least 30 25 feet from the public right of way. Buildings are en-couraged to be located as close to the public street as possible while still meeting the set-back requirement for the district. b.The orientation of multiple buildings on one site must be clearly coordinated. c.Buildings should be oriented parallel or per- pendicular to the street they front, promoting continuity of design. d.Buildings should be arranged to provide conve- nient access to entrances and efficient on-site circulation for vehicles and pedestrians. e.Shared access points from the public ROW are encouraged. Vehicular access points should be limited to minimize traffic disruption. f.For master planned development, the provi- sion of landscaped open or gathering spaces is encouraged within commercial developments. Applicable Zoning Districts: •Commercial (C) • Convenience Commercial (CC) Landscaped gathering spaces provide a distinctive and welcoming space for visitors. 14 City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 CommerCIal developmenT Streetscape Goal: To create safe, pleasant and functional pe- destrian spaces within commercial development, improving access and district identity. a.Sidewalks are required along primary street frontages, unless a suitable alternative that promotes pedestrian access safety is approved. In addition, pedestrian access to the building from the public street shall be provided. b.Street trees shall be installed at regular inter- vals along the public right of way. c.Ornamental or bollard lighting is encouraged to increase safety, as well as add visual interest. d.Fencing shall be installed around outdoor din- ing areas that are adjacent to pedestrian areas or streets. e.Site furnishings such as decorative fencing, trash receptacles, planters, bicycle racks, and benches are recommended. Applicants are encouraged to utilize design elements and site amenities from the Lake Elmo Branding & Theming Study. Landscaping Goal: To ensure development of a high aesthetic quality, and to reduce the amount of impervious surface at commercial sites. a.Parking, public and streetscape areas should utilize trees, plant beds, and potted plants to add visual interest and break up continuous hardscape. b.Parking, service, storage and utility areas should be buffered by plantings. Near areas of pedestrian circulation, these plantings shall not exceed 4 feet in height for safety purposes. c.Hardy and native plant materials that are re- sistant to the climate, disease and salt are en- couraged. d.Making use of similar plant materials as adja- cent properties and public spaces is encour- aged to create continuity. e.Mature trees located on building sites should be retained whenever possible. f.Bare soils should be planted or mulched with bark, stone or other suitable material to avoid unnecessary runoff. Parking Goal: To provide parking facilities that adequately serve the needs of com- mercial properties, while ensuring pedestrian safe- ty and maintaining a posi- tive visual aesthetic from the public right of way. Streetscapes should include plant beds with trees to provide shade and add aesthetic value along sidewalks. Sidewalks within larger parking lots improve pedestrian circulation and safety. Fencing around outdoor dining areas helps delineate pedes- trian walkways and patio space. Bollards are an effective tool in delineating the pedstrian space. This style of bollard is drawn from the Lake Elmo Branding and Theming Study. 15City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 CommerCIal developmenT a.The linear measurement of surface parking areas parallel to the public street are encour- aged not to exceed more than 60% of primary street frontages. Sites or projects that are un- able to meet this guideline are encouraged to install berms and/or additional landscaping along areas of surface parking adjacent to the primary street frontage. b.The entrance to parking facilities should be lo- cated on secondary streets when possible. c.Shared parking facilities between adjacent uses or businesses are encouraged when pos- sible to avoid excessive amounts of parking. d.Structure parking is encouraged, and should be located behind or beneath primary build- ings when possible. e.Structure parking or parking areas located be- neath the primary structure should be screened with architectural elements that match the pri- mary building. f.Parking areas should be screened from view of public streets by means of grading and/or landscaping. g.Parking areas should be screened from adja- cent structures with landscaping strips not ex- ceeding 4 feet in height in order to ensure pe- destrian safety. h.Landscaped islands should be installed within surface parking areas to break up continuous hardscape and reduce concentration of imper- vious surface. i.Lighting must be provided in parking areas at night for safety purposes. However, direct glare, spillover or other forms of light pollution directed at adjacent properties are prohibited. j.Parking facilities must be ADA compliant when deemed necessary. Delivery, Service, Storage and Utility Areas Goal: To provide physical and visual separation between delivery, service and storage areas and areas of pedestrian and automobile circulation. a.Service, storage, maintenance or trash collec- tion areas should be located out of the view from the public right of way, or significantly screened through landscaping or architectural features. b.Service, storage and trash collection areas are not allowed in the setback areas. c.The location of delivery, storage and service ar- eas should be clearly marked with signage and should not interfere with other automobile or pedestrian circulation. d.Storage and delivery areas should be hard sur- face, minimizing the dispersal of dust. B.Building Design Form and Facade Goal: To ensure structures of high architectural quality that promote visual interest, thereby sup- porting district identity. a.Blank facades without windows and doors are discouraged. All sides of structures should have architectural treamtent.Variety and creativity in building facade is encouraged through changes in building materials, fenestration height, and roof lines, especially on primary facades that face the public right of way. b.Window and door styles shall reflect the pre- vailing architectural style of the structure. c.Ground level retail and commercial uses should employ a significant amount of trans- parent glass in the form of windows and doors, particularly near pedestrian entrances. Landscaping strips along public streets add a visual separa- tion between parking areas and the public right-of-way. Facade articulation and windows with architectural detail add visual interest and break up long expanses of continu- ous façade. 16 City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 CommerCIal developmenT d.Minimizing continuous expanses of wall through facade articulation, recession and pro- jection is encouraged. e.Structures that are oriented towards the public street are encouraged to provide multiple ac- cess points or entrances if the parking area is located to the rear of the structure. f.Architects and builders are encouraged to in- corporate topographical features into the form of the structure when possible, utilizing natural grades to create unique design. Building Materials Goal: To promote quality development through du- rability and visual aesthetics, thereby supporting district identity. a.High-quality and durable materials should be used in street facing facades. b.Primary building materials for commercial structures should include brick, finished wood, stone, cast stone, or pre-cast concrete panels with exposed aggregate, banding, texturing, or other similar decorative finish treatment. c.High quality synthetic materials that adequate- ly duplicate natural materials may be accept- able if approved by the City, including, but not limited to, thin brick, hardi plank, decorative concrete masonry, and other materials. d.The following building materials are not allowed to be used as the primary facade for commer- cial development: •Unpainted galvanized metal •Unfinished “green-treated” lumber •Unfinished wood •Plain or unpainted concrete •Painted concrete block may be used on the rear of the building or sides not visible from the public right of way. •Vinyl siding e.Facade colors should reflect subtle earth tones. However, other primary facade colors will be considered by the Review Authority. Ac- cent materials should complement the colors of the primary facade. Scale and Mass Goal: To establish standards for building with a hu- man scale in mind. a.Buildings should be broken down into smaller parts to avoid monotonous or continuous de- sign and the appearance of mass. b.Exterior design that provides the appearance of multiple structures is encouraged to reduce scale and minimize mass. c.Building mass should be broken up with mul- tiple roof and ridgelines perpendicular with one another. d.Structures of two-stories or higher should have articulated facades to minimize the appear- ance of mass, as well as multiple roof lines with corresponding gables. e.Scale should be reduced by utilizing “step- down” methods towards the public street. En- tries and other bump out features are effective in this regard. Parapets of varying heights add architectural interest and accentuate building entries. High quality and durable building materials add aesthetic value and create a more attractive environment. 17City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 CommerCIal developmenT Roof Design Goal: To ensure architectural consideration and consistency in roof design in relation to the struc- ture, and to reduce the visual impact of rooftop equipment. a.The design of the roof must be consistent with the overall architecture or design of the structure. b.Parapets of varying heights are required for large commercial buildings with flat roofs. c.Rooftop equipment, particularly on flat roofs, must be screened by the parapet or other ar- chitectural features. Entries Goal: To provide identifiable entryways that em- phasize access, pedestrian safety, architectural quality and a human scale. a.Entryways to commercial structures should be accessible for pedestrians from the public right of way. Large retail sites in particular should consider installing a dedicated pedestrian way. b.Architectural features should be incorporated into entryways, such as facade detailing or prominent windows. c.The use of canopies, awnings and other shel- tering features are encouraged. d.Pedestrian amenities such as trash recepta- cles, benches, or lighted bollards are encour- aged near entryways to commercial buildings. Lighting Goal: To ensure safety of patrons, employees, pe- destrians and automobiles, as well as providing visual interest and aesthetic value to a site, while limiting light polution of the night sky to the best extent possible. a.Lighting must be provided in entryways, park- ing areas, pedestrian ways, storage and ser- vice areas, and other locations that require ad- ditional safety lighting. b.Lighting height shall be consistent with the City’s exterior lighting standards. c.Lighting styles should be complementary to the architectural style of the building. d.Lighting of architectural features should be used to provide accent and interest, as well as identify the building entryway. Architectural lighting must be downcast and shielded to pre- vent light pollution. e.Bollard lighting is encouraged for pedestrian areas. f.Overhead lighting must be shielded to prevent light trespass and spill-over onto adjacent properties. g.Commercial uses near residential zones must utilize lighting that minimizes light trespass. h.Bare bulb and exposed neon lighting are not allowed. Signage Goal: To provide signage that clearly identifies businesses within the Commercial district, while promoting quality and consistency in terms of de- sign and materials. a.Building signage should be complementary to the architecture of the structure, as well as consistent with the style of the surrounding buildings or district. b.Sign elements that will be evaluated for consis- tency include scale, color, lighting and materi- als. c.Signs must be constructed of high-quality, du- rable materials. d.Directional signage to delivery, service and storage areas is required. e.Two and three-dimensional signs are encour- aged to promote creativity and district identity. f.All buildings are encouraged to incorporate el- ements of community theming in appropriate signage, supporting district and city identity. Signage should complement the architectural style of the building. 18 City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 This page left blank intentionally. 19City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 Business Park Development4 The intent of this zoning district is to provide oppor- tunities for high quality business park development for office, light manufacturing, and other non-retail uses. In terms of design, this manual establishes consistent architectural standards between vari- ous users in the BP district. These architectural standards are intended to promote a coordinated identity and avoid mismatched design. In addition, the manual ensures the installation of open-space character within business park development through effective site design and landscaping. A.Site Design Building Placement Goal: To establish standards for building location that ensure effective automobile and pedestrian circulation and promote coordination of buildings between adjacent sites and structures. a.Buildings must be setback at least 50 feet from the public right of way. b.Buildings should be located in a manner that allows for effective automobile and pedestrian circulation. c.Shared access points from the public ROW are encouraged. Vehicular access points should be limited to minimize traffic disruption. d.The orientation of buildings should be compat- ible with adjacent structures and sites. e.Utilizing the natural topography or features of the site is encouraged to create unique land- scapes and add visual interest and value to the design. f.The provision of common and open spaces to the rear of the site is encouraged for the use of employees and visitors, reinforcing Lake El- mo’s open-space character. Streetscape Goal: To provide high quality landscaping in areas visible from the public view, as well as promote pe- destrian connections in the BP district. a.Street trees shall be installed at regular inter- vals along the public right of way. Species of street trees should be selected according to root zone and salt tolerance. b.Additional landscaping along public streets is encouraged. Landscape materials should be low- maintenance and native to ensure heartiness. c.Sidewalks along the public right of way are encouraged to extend pedestrian connections throughout the BP district. d.Utilizing site amenities as guided by Lake Elmo Theming Study is encouraged. Applicable Zoning Districts: • Business Park/Light Manufacturing (BP) Utilizing natural topography within business park develop- ment adds aesthetic value and reinforces Lake Elmo’s open space character. Street trees provide an attractive streetscape, as well as help screen and provide shade within parking areas. 20 City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 busIness park developmenT Landscaping Goal: To reduce continuous hardscape and imper- vious surface, as well as ensure development of a high visual quality. a.Trees, plant beds, and potted plants should be installed in parking, sidewalk, and other hard surfaced areas to add visual interest and break up continuous impervious surface. b.Parking, service, storage and utility areas should be buffered by plantings, particularly when in view of public streets. Near areas of pedestrian circulation, these plantings shall not exceed 4 feet in height for safety purposes. c.Hardy and native plant materials that are re- sistant to the climate, disease and salt are en- couraged. d.Making use of similar plant materials as adja- cent properties and public spaces is encour- aged to create continuity. e.Mature trees located on building sites should be retained whenever possible. f.Bare soils should be planted or mulched with bark, stone or other suitable material to avoid unnecessary runoff. Parking Goal: To adequately serve the parking needs of businesses in the BP district, while ensuring pe- destrian safety, reduced impervious surface, and a high quality visual aesthetic and appearance. a.The linear measurement of surface parking areas parallel to the public street are encour- aged not to exceed more than 75% of primary street frontages. Sites or projects that are un- able to meet this guideline are encouraged to install berms and/or additional landscaping to buffer areas of surface parking adjacent to the primary street frontage. b.The entrance to parking facilities should be lo- cated on secondary streets when possible. c.Shared parking facilities between adjacent uses or businesses are strongly encouraged when possible to avoid excessive amounts of parking. d.Structure parking is encouraged, and should be located behind or beneath primary build- ings when possible. e.Structure parking or parking areas located be- neath the primary structure should be screened with architectural elements that match the pri- mary building. f.Parking areas should be screened from view of public streets by means of grading and/or landscaping. g.Parking areas should be screened from ad- jacent structures with landscaping strips not exceeding 4 feet in height in order to ensure pedestrian safety. h.Landscaped islands should be installed within surface parking areas to break up continuous hardscape and reduce concentration of imper- vious surface. i.Lighting must be provided in parking areas at night for safety purposes. However, direct glare, spillover or other forms of light pollution directed at adjacent properties are prohibited. j.Parking facilities must be ADA compliant when deemed necessary. Delivery, Service, Storage and Utility Areas Goal: To provide physical and visual separation of delivery, service, storage and utility areas from the public right of way and areas of automobile and pedestrian circulation. a. Delivery, service, storage, maintenance or trash collection areas should be located out of the view from the public right of way, or significantly Landscape islands greatly improve that character of surface parking lots. 21City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 busIness park developmenT screened through landscaping or architectural features that match the primary structure. b.Service, storage and trash collection areas are not allowed in the setback areas. c.The location of delivery, storage and service ar- eas should be clearly marked with signage and should not interfere with other automobile or pedestrian circulation. d.Storage and delivery areas should be hard sur- face, minimizing the dispersal of dust. B.Building Design Form and Facade Goal: To promote buildings of high architectural quality and creativity in design. a.Blank facades without windows and doors are discouraged. All sides of the structures shall have architectural treatments. b.Window and door styles should reflect the pre- vailing architectural style of the structure. c.Variety and creativity in building facade is en- couraged through changes in building materi- als, fenestration height, and roof lines. Primary facades should not present a continuous wall without architectural details that add visual in- terest. d.Minimizing continuous expanses of wall through facade articulation, recession or pro- jection is encouraged. e. Architects and builders are encouraged to incor- porate topographical features into the form of the structure when possible, utilizing natural grades to create unique design. Building Materials Goal: To promote quality development through du- rability and visual aesthetics, thereby supporting district identity. a.High-quality and durable materials should be used in street facing facades. b.Primary building materials for structures in the BP district should include brick, stone, cast stone, quality metals, glass, Exterior Insulation Finish Systems (EFIS), or pre-cast concrete panels with exposed aggregate, banding, tex- turing or other similar decorative finish treat- ment. c.High quality synthetic materials that adequate- ly duplicate natural materials may be accept- able if approved by the City, including, but not limited to, thin brick, hardi plank, decorative concrete masonry, and other materials. d.The following building materials are not al- lowed to be used as primary finished facade material for business park development: •Unpainted galvanized metal •hed “green-treated” lumber •Unfinished wood •Plain or unpainted concrete Garbage collection areas should be located to the rear of the site and screened using materials that match the principal structure. Corner treatments to larger structures add visual interest and break up monotonous design. Long expanses of wall can be broken up using windows and other treatments. 22 City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 busIness park developmenT •Painted concrete block may be used on the rear of the building or sides not visible from the public right of way. g.Facade colors should reflect subtle earth tones. However, other primary facade colors will be considered by the Review Authority. Ac- cent materials shall complement the colors of the primary facade. Scale and Mass Goal: To reduce the appearance of mass in the BP district. a.Scale should be reduced by utilizing “step- down” methods, particularly near areas of pe- destrian circulation. Entries and other bump out features are effective in this regard. b.Structures of two-stories or higher should uti- lize facade treatments, such as multiple build- ing materials or additional windows, to mini- mize the appearance of mass. Roof Design Goal: To ensure architectural consideration and consistency in roof design in relation to the archi- tecture of the building, and to reduce the visual impact of rooftop equipment. a.The design of the roof must be consistent with the overall architecture or design of the struc- ture. b.Parapets of varying heights are required for buildings in the BP district with flat roofs. c.Rooftop equipment, particularly on flat roofs, must be screened by the parapet or other ar- chitectural features. Entries Goal: To provide identifiable entryways that em- phasize access, pedestrian safety, architectural quality and a human scale. a.Entryways to buildings in the BP district should be accessible for pedestrians from the public right of way. b.Architectural features should be incorporated into entryways, such as facade detailing or prominent windows. c.The use of canopies, awnings and other shel- tering features are encouraged. d.Pedestrian amenities such as ornamental Parapets of varying height provide additional architectural detail that add aesthetic value. High quality building materials are required for street-facing facades. 23City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 busIness park developmenT trash receptacles, benches or lighted bollards are encouraged near entryways to buildings in the BP district. Lighting Goal: To ensure safety of patrons, employees, pe- destrians and automobiles, as well as providing visual interest and aesthetic value to a site, while limiting light pollution of the night sky to the best extent possible. a.Lighting must be provided in entryways, park- ing areas, pedestrian ways, storage and ser- vice areas, and other locations that require ad- ditional safety lighting. b.Lighting height shall be consistent with City’s exterior lighting standards. c.Lighting styles should be complementary to the architectural style of the building. d.Lighting of architectural features should be used to provide accent and interest, as well as identify the building entryway. Architectural lighting must be downcast and shielded to pre- vent light pollution. e.Bollard lighting is encouraged for pedestrian areas. f.Overhead lighting must be shielded to prevent light trespass and spill-over onto adjacent properties. g.Buildings near residential zones must utilize lighting that minimizes light trespass. h.Bare bulb and exposed neon lighting are not allowed. Signage Goal: To provide signage that clearly identifies businesses within the BP district, while promoting quality and consistency in terms of design and ma- terials. a.Building signage shall be complementary to the architecture of the structure, as well as consistent with the style of the surrounding buildings or district as a whole. b.Sign elements that will be evaluated for consis- tency include scale, color, lighting and materi- als. c.Signs must be constructed of high quality, du- rable materials. d.Directional signage to delivery, service and storage areas is required. e.Two and three-dimensional signs are encour- aged to promote creativity and district identity. f.All buildings are encouraged to incorporate el- ements of community theming in appropriate signage, supporting district and city identity. Canopies and changes in building materials help accentuate entryways. Two and three-dimensional signage provides creativity and visual interest. 24 City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 This page left blank intentionally. 25City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 Mixed-Use Development5 The standards of the mixed-use districts place a high emphasis on walkability, streetscapes, and the overall pedestrian environment. For these district to be successful, site design must be conducive to pedestrian circulation and safety. It is critical to establish consistent and high quality architectural standards that ensure creativity and an attractive aesthetic in the mixed-use districts. In addition, the development that occurs in the mixed-use districts will serve as an important function as a unique gathering place in the community, particularly in the Village Mixed-Use District. The downtown area of Lake Elmo represents the quintessential small-town charm. It is the City's goal to build off this old small-town character to the best extent possible. A.Site Design Building Placement Goal: To promote compact development that is consistent with Lake Elmo's vision for pedestrian- oriented downtown. a.Buildings in the mixed-use districts may meet a zero lot line setback, but may not be setback further than 20 25 feet from the public right of way, unless allowed by the zoning district. b.If buildings do not meet a zero lot line orienta- tion, plazas, patios, outdoor dining areas and landscaped entries are encouraged in the set- back area. c.Buildings must be oriented either perpendicu- lar or parallel to the street they front, with the primary facade being parallel to the sidewalk. d.Gaps and openings between buildings should be minimized in order to preserve a compact pedestrian environment. e. f. Off-street parking areas should be located to the rear or side of buildings in the mixed-use districts and accessed from secondary streets or parking alleys. On-street parking may be avail- able on public streets in the front of buildings. Ground floor uses of structures in the mixed-use districts should encourage pedestrian activity. Streetscape Goal: To provide a pleasing pedestrian environ- ment that promotes a vibrant and walkable down- town area. a.Sidewalks are required parallel to public streets in the mixed-use districts. Larger sidewalks are encouraged to support the amount of pedestrian activity that is conducive to downtown areas. The minimum sidewalk width in the mixed-use districts is 6 feet. b.Sidewalk materials should be attractive, du- rable and low-maintenance, such as concrete and pavers. Special paving materials are en- couraged to add visual interest and promote a unique identity. c.Pedestrian space may be maximized through the use of perme- able pavers or tree grates at the base of street trees. d.Street or boulevard trees should be planted at regular intervals. Species of street trees should be selected accord- ing to root zone and salt tolerance. It is the goal of the mixed use development area to build off of the existing charm of Downtown Lake Elmo. Tree gates help maximize pedestrian space in areas of high pedestrian activity. Applicable Zoning Districts: •Village Mixed-Use •Mixed-Use Commercial •Mixed-Use Business Park 26 City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 mIxed-use developmenT e.Planting beds and other type of street land- scaping are encouraged as long as they do not conflict with pedestrian circulation. f.Benches, bicycle racks, ornamental trash re- ceptacles and other site furnishings are en- couraged. Applicants are encouraged to utilize design elements and site amenities from the Lake Elmo Branding & Theming Study. g.Pedestrian scaled lighting in the form of bollard or ornamental lighting promotes district iden- tity and pedestrian safety. h.Ornamental fencing shall be installed around outdoor dining areas to provide separation from pedestrian routes. Landscaping Goal: To promote an aesthetically pleasing pedes- trian environment through landscaping, as well as reduce the amount of impervious surface in the mixed-use districts. a.Parking, public and streetscape areas should utilize trees, plant beds, and potted plants to add visual interest and break up continuous hard- scape. b. Parking, service, storage and utility areas should be buff- ered by plantings. Near areas of pe- destrian circulation, these plantings shall not exceed 4 feet in height for safety pur- poses. c. Hardy and native plant materials that are resistant to the climate, disease and salt are encouraged. d. Making use of similar plant materials as adjacent properties and public spaces is encouraged to create continuity. e.Mature trees should be retained when pos- sible. f.Bare soils should be planted or mulched with bark, stone or other suitable material to avoid unnecessary runoff. Parking a.Off-street surface parking is not allowed in front of the building along the primary street front- age. However, opportunities for on-street park- ing on the public street should be available. b.Structured parking located to the side, rear or beneath the building is encouraged in the mixed-use districts. c.Structure parking should be screened with ar- chitectural elements that match the primary building. d.The entrance to parking facilities should be lo- cated on secondary streets when possible. e.Shared parking facilities between adjacent uses or businesses are strongly encouraged when possible to avoid excessive amounts of parking. Creating inviting pedestrian spaces increases pedestrian traffic and activity. Seasonal planters attract more activity to mixed-use areas by creating a pleasant pedestrian space. Angled parking promotes traditional main-street character and provides a greater buffer between pedestrian and auto- mobile areas. Parking is encouraged in the rear of the site to accentuate front building elevations. 27City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 mIxed-use developmenT f.Surface parking areas should be screened from view of public streets by means of grading and/or landscaping. g.Landscaped islands should be installed within surface parking areas to break up continuous hardscape and reduce concentration of imper- vious surface. h.Lighting must be provided in parking areas at night for safety purposes. However, direct glare, spillover or other forms of light pollution directed at adjacent properties are prohibited. i.Parking facilities must be ADA compliant when deemed necessary. Delivery, Service, Storage and Utility Areas Goal: To provide physical and visual separation between delivery, service and storage areas and areas of pedestrian circulation. a.Service, storage, maintenance or trash collection areas should shall be located out of the view from the public right of way, or significantly screened through landscaping or architectural features. b.Delivery areas should be located in the rear of the building whenever possible. c.Service, storage and trash collection areas are not allowed in the setback areas. d.Delivery, service, storage, maintenance and utilities should be located in a way that does not interfere with pedestrian circulation. e.These areas should be marked with directional signage when appropriate. f.Delivery, storage and trash collection areas should be hard surface, minimizing the disper-sal of dust. B.Building Design Form and Facade Goal: To promote buildings of high architectural quality and old-town character that are oriented to- wards the primary street frontage and pedestrian environment. a.Blank facades without windows and doors are discouraged. All sides of the structures shall have architectural treatments. b.Variety and creativity in building facade is en- couraged through changes in building materi- Canopies, windows, lighting and high-quality building materials all provide architectural detail at the pedestrian level. Trash and utility areas should be located out of the view of the right-of-way and screened using materials that match the principal structure. 28 City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 mIxed-use developmenT als, fenestration height, and roof lines. c.Minimizing continuous expanses of wall through facade articulation, recession or pro- jection is encouraged. d.Window and door styles should shall reflect the pre-vailing architectural style of the structure. e.Architecture should be conscious of the design of surrounding structures and overall district identity, including facade treatments, windows, building materials and entries. f.Buildings should be designed to provide hu- man scale. g.The highest level of architectural detail should occur adjacent to areas of pedestrian activity. h.Auto-oriented uses, such as garages, delivery areas or bay should be oriented away from the primary street frontage. Building Materials Goal: To promote quality development through du- rability and visual aesthetics, thereby supporting district identity. a. b. High quality and durable materials should be used on all facades. Primary building materials for structures should shall include brick, finished wood, glass, stone, cast stone, or pre-cast concrete panels with exposed aggregate, banding, texturing, or other similar decorative finish treatment. c.High quality synthetic materials that adequate- ly duplicate natural materials may be accept- able if approved by the City, including, but not limited to, thin brick, hardi plank, decorative concrete masonry, and other materials. d.The following building materials are not al- lowed to be used as the primary facade for development in the mixed-use districts: •Unpainted galvanized metal •Unfinished “green-treated” lumber •Unfinished wood •Concrete block (painted or unpainted) e.Facade colors should reflect muted earth tones. However, other primary facade colors will be considered by the Review Authority. Ac- cent materials should complement the colors of the primary facade. Mass and Scale Goal: To establish standards for building with a hu- man scale in mind. a.Buildings should be broken down into smaller parts to avoid monotonous or continuous de- sign and the appearance of mass. b.Exterior design that provides the appearance of multiple structures is encouraged to reduce scale and minimize mass. c.Scale should be reduced by utilizing “step- down” methods towards the public street. En- tries and other bump out features are effective in this regard. d.Structures of two-stories or higher should have articulated facades to minimize the appear- ance of mass. e.Building mass should be broken up by multiple roof and ridgelines perpendicular with one an- other. Roof Design Goal: To encourage creativity and architectural treatments in roof design, and to reduce the visual impact of rooftop equipment. a.The design of the roof must be consistent with the overall architecture or design of the structure. b.Creativity and variety in roof design is encour- aged in the mixed-use districts to support district identity. c.Flat roofs should include variation in parapet height, materials, and architectural detailing to avoid monotonous roof lines. Step-down techniques and variation in building materials help reduce the scale of the building and accentuate the street/ pedestrian area. Brick is a high quality material that is consistent with an old downtown mixed-use area. 29City of Lake eLmo - Design guiDeLines & stanDarDs - REVISED 2-2-22 mIxed-use developmenT d.Rooftop equipment, particularly on flat roofs, must be screened by the parapet or other ar- chitectural features. e.Rooftops that are visible from adjacent build- ings should minimize the visual impact of roof- top equipment and give consideration to roof- top aesthetics. Entries Goal: To provide identifiable entryways that em- phasize access, pedestrian safety, architectural quality and a human scale. a.Entryways must be provided on the side of the building fronting the primary street. b.Entryways should receive the highest level of architectural treatments. This may include fa- cade treatments, prominent windows or other features. c.The use of canopies, awnings and other shel- tering features are encouraged. d.Pedestrian amenities such as ornamental trash receptacles, benches, bicycle racks or lighted bollards are encouraged near entry- ways of buildings in the mixed-use districts. Lighting Goal: To ensure safety of patrons, employees, pe- destrians and automobiles, as well as providing visual interest and aesthetic value to a site, while limiting light polution of the night sky to the best extent possible. a.Lighting must be provided in entryways, park- ing areas, pedestrian ways, storage and ser- vice areas, and other locations that require ad- ditional safety lighting. b.Lighting styles should be complementary to the architectural style of the building and surrounding district. c.Lighting of architectural features should be used to provide accent and interest, as well as identify the building entryway. Ar- chitectural lighting must be downcast and shielded to prevent light pollution. d.Bollard lighting is encouraged for pedes- trian areas. e.Overhead lighting must be shielded to pre- vent light trespass and spill-over onto adja- cent properties. f.Bare bulb and exposed neon lighting are not allowed. Signage Goal: To provide durable, quality signage that identifies businesses and supports district identity. a.Building signage must be complementary to the architecture of the structure, as well as consistent with the style of the surrounding buildings or district. b.Sign elements that will be evaluated for consis- tency include scale, color, lighting and materials. c.Signs must be constructed of high-quality, du- rable materials. d.Directional signage to delivery, service and storage areas is required. e.Two and three-dimensional signs are encour- aged to promote creativity and district identity. f.All buildings are encouraged to incorporate ele- ments of community theming in appropriate sig- nage, supporting district and city identity. Signage design should be complimentary to the materials of the building. Directional signage helps facilitate good traffic circulation and flow.