11-03-1999 PC - Laserfiche WebLink

Home Browse Search

Mounds View Planning Commission November 3, 1999 Regular Meeting Page 7 1111 Planning Associate Ericson requested the Commission discuss these issues. He stated at the last meeting, the Commission concluded 32 feet would be an adequate driveway width, however, the question is if there are two driveways on one property, should they be 16 or 18 feet wide, and what would be the appropriate curb cut width. Chair Peterson noted there was also a question in regard to a number of single family homes constructed on R-2 lots, which should be taken into account as well. He explained some of these properties are inappropriately zoned R-2, when their uses are currently R-1, however, they currently exist in this manner and language may be required to address this. Planning Associate Ericson advised that Subdivision 5b of 1121.09,Page 5 of the ordinance, indicates "No curb cut access shall exceed 24 feet in width for R-1 and R-5 residential uses. A 32-foot wide curb cut shall be permissible for R-2, R-3 and R-4 uses." He explained this language could be interpreted to indicate a single family home is not an R-2 use, otherwise, it could be amended to indicate a single family dwelling or use, as opposed to the Zoning District reference. Chair Peterson pointed out that the language alternates between the district and the use, and this presents a conflict. Planning Associate Ericson stated this language could be amended and made consistent, and brought back to the Planning Commission at the next meeting. Chair Peterson stated the 32-foot driveway width did not seem unreasonable, as the current 30-foot • maximum did not appear to be accommodating. Commissioner Hegland inquired if a 40-foot width should be allowed, as this was currently being constructed. Chair Peterson pointed out that this would result in an excessive amount of impervious surface. Commissioner Laube stated the driveway width in the R-2 and R-3 District should be 36 feet. He explained that for a 22-foot wide garage, with a 16-foot driveway straight from each garage door, and allowing for 4 feet in the center, the driveway width would be 36 feet. He commented that the majority of these homes are constructed closer to the road, and it would be difficult to park a vehicle in the driveway if it was narrowed down any further. Commissioner Stevenson pointed out that the driveways of most twin homes, even if they both have 3 car garages, do not necessarily go straight back. He explained that the person with a 3 car garage will only have a 22-foot curb cut, and if this is a back to back twin home, he could not see allowing more than the 32 feet, because the driveway will be jointly used. Commissioner Laube reiterated most town homes are built closer to the road, and with a narrower driveway, parked vehicles could very easily block the other garage. Commissioner Hegland stated the driveways should be allowed to go straight back 40 feet. He explained that a single family home is permitted 11 feet per car, and this is restricted to 10 feet for 111 twin homes.