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Mounds View Planning Commission April 20, 2016 Regular Meeting Page 2 ________________________________________________________________________ 6. Other Planning Activity A. Resolution 1047-16, Recommending approval of a Text Amendment to Zoning Code 1102, Definitions and 1106.03 Accessory Uses Planner Sevald informed the Commission that accessory buildings include any structure other than the home or principal building. This includes open carports and enclosed private garages. The Zoning Code regulates the placement, size, and appearance of Accessory Buildings based on what zoning district the property is located in. Recently, the City has taken enforcement action on carports (Accessory Buildings) which violate the Zoning Code, but some of the ordinance text is unclear if the intent is to permit Accessory Buildings with “metal” sided exteriors. The most significant changes are that a carport may be enclosed on three sides (vs. two); is limited to the storage of operable vehicles and trailers (not miscellaneous items); and its roof is not required to be similar in character to the principal building. Staff recommends approval of the text amendment to clarify permitted uses of a Carport. Chair Stevenson questioned why carport violations have occurred. Planner Sevald explained the City has been addressing carports covered in tarps or the accumulation of miscellaneous items within the carport. He reviewed several examples of carports that were allowed in the City. Commissioner Klander questioned if the proposed text amendment would clarify between a temporary and permanent carport. Planner Sevald explained staff viewed carports as an accessory structure and must be screwed down [properly anchored]. Commissioner Klander requested further information on the permitting process. Planner Sevald discussed the permitting process noting the carport would have to comply with City setbacks and applicable building codes. Commissioner Klander asked if the surface under the carport had to be improved. Planner Sevald reported the surface had to be concrete, asphalt, pavers, or gravel (up to 300 square feet). Further discussion ensued regarding the pitch of the roof on carports. Commissioner Love expressed concern with the language addressing flat roofs. Planner Sevald clarified if a homeowner with a flat roof wanted to build a detached accessory structure, the roof on the accessory structure will not be flat. Commissioner Klander stated he could support a homeowner with a flat roof having a garage with a flat roof in order for the two building styles to match. Chair Stevenson did not recall any houses in Mounds View having a flat roof and believed this was a non-issue. He asked if any of the Commissioners supported allowing flat roof carports. He was inclined to support the language as is.