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Mounds View Planning Commission June 7, 2000 Regular Meeting Page 30 40,000 square feet of backyard area, a provision could be written into the Code to exempt them from that requirement. Planning Associate Ericson stated that the examination process might require several meetings before staff comes back with an ordinance. He indicated he had also complied a list of issues for consideration with regard to garages, including whether or not the maximum size should be increased from 952 square feet. He advised that this was originally 864 square feet, with an upper limit of 1,264 square feet, and the difference between the two was the basis for the 400 square-foot shed size. He explained that currently, the maximum size for a garage without a conditional use permit is 952 square feet with an upper limit of 1,400 square feet, and if this was increased to 1,000 square feet without a conditional use permit, it would be consistent with what the previous requirements, in terms of the relationship to the 400 square-foot shed, however, this would not be the case if they desire to increase the size of the shed as well. Planning Associate Ericson stated that the intent of this undertaking is to make the process easier for the residents, and to create an environment that is more accommodating to their improvement plans. He explained that it was extremely frustrating for staff to have to explain to an individual who would like to put up a shed over the weekend that the process would involve two months time, however, there must be a balance, and these are the issues that the Commission is requested to discuss. Commissioner Miller stated that one of the purposes for the conditional use permit is to regulate those uses that are not permitted, such as an auto repair business. Commissioner Hegland stated that this could be regulated without a conditional use permit. Commissioner Johnson explained that they could control these issues through other means, such as prohibiting a driveway up to the structure. Planning Associate Ericson stated that the City does not currently allow two garages, however, the question arises in the definition of a garage. Commissioner Hegland pointed out that the Ordinance prohibits the operation of a business. Planning Associate Ericson advised that a business is permitted, however, it must be in keeping with the Code requirements. He explained that there are criteria pertaining to home occupations such as, there shall be no alterations not typically found in a house, there is no outside storage, and the business shall not create any nuisance situations. He explained that there are other issues as well, however, through the conditional use permit process, the City could be very specific, and place requirements above and beyond these criteria. He pointed out that the City does not prohibit an individual from making crafts for craft shows, or things of this nature. Commissioner Thomas inquired if the conditional use permit process provided information regarding the types of items that are stored in the structures. Planning Associate Ericson stated that there was no reliable information in terms of the percentage of shed owners who utilize the space for the storage of specific items. He explained that at the time the applicants come before the City to request a conditional use permit for a shed