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of Mounds I/iew Staff R To: From: Item Title/Subject: Introduction: Item No: AS 3A Meeting Date: Dec 3. 2003 Type of Business: Discussion Mounds View Planning Commission James Ericson, Community Development Director Review Zoning Code Provisions Related to Temporary Structures Staff is seeking guidance from the Planning Commission regarding a provision in the City's Zoning Code which implicitly prohibits temporary structures. From time to time, the City receives requests for temporary storage structures and up to this point has denied such requests as being inconsistent with the Code. There are situations, however, when allowing a temporary structure would be preferable to other alternatives. It is for this reason Staff is requesting the Planning Commission's feedback and direction on a possible code amendment. Discussion: The Zoning Code implicitly prohibits most "temporary" structures in Subd 1 of Section 1106.03, regarding accessory buildings as accessory uses within the R-1 zoning district. The pertinent language is as follows: `Accessory buildings shall have a weather resistant, treated or finished exterior. Structures composed of tubular metal and canvas or exposed plywood, particle board or similar materials shall not be permitted." This passage was added to the Zoning Code in 2000 with the adoption of Ordinance 664. The intent of this passage was to effectively prohibit the often unsightly tubular metal framed membrane covered temporary structures as well unsightly plywood "shacks." The prohibition, however, prevents staff from allowing membrane structures on a temporary basis under certain conditions. Recent cases which would potentially justify such a temporary "permit" include garage reconstructions, home remodels or reconstructions or winter coverage for vehicles stored outside. (Examples of these types of temporary structures are attached for the Commission's review.) Another issue staff has observed that may further justify a code amendment relates to a growing storage phenomena—portable outdoor storage devices. Portable outdoor storage devices are delivered to homes or businesses for a specified period of time then hauled away when no longer needed. There are two nationwide purveyors of such devices—Portable On Demand Storage (PODS) and Door to Door storage. (See attached company flyers.) Because our Code does not specifically address such storage units, they would either be treated as would any other accessory storage building or not permitted altogether. Due to the growing prevalence of this kind of temporary storage facility, staff feels it would be worthwhile to adopt regulations to permit such structures on a temporary basis with conditions.