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Mounds View Planning Commission October 4, 2006 Regular Meeting Page 12 ________________________________________________________________________ 6. Other Planning Activity A. Accessory Building Codes and Requirements Discussion. Community Development Director Ericson reported a large number of residents appeared before the City Council on September 25, 2006 to express their concerns regarding large detached garages and accessory buildings. He pointed out City Council requested the Planning Commission examine the code and make a recommendation as to whether an amendment should be considered. Community Development Director Ericson explained the trend has been for larger garage and shed sizes. He mentioned the most recent amendment was adopted by the City Council in 2002 after a recommendation from the Planning Commission to increase the maximum total square footage for accessory buildings on a residential lot from 1400 to 1800 square feet. Director Ericson stated there is other criteria such as a building could not be more than 20 percent of the total property, maximum height and width requirements, and a variety of other requirements. He stated one of the items the code does not address is that of design. Community Development Director Ericson read the questions proposed for consideration by the Planning Commission. He stated Staff needs direction from the Planning Commission for a recommendation to take back to the City Council. Chair Stevenson asked Community Development Director Ericson to explain how the Planning Commission came to consensus four years ago on the 1800 total square feet. He stated it was more involved at the time and explained why the changes were made. He indicated the Planning Commission did not look at design at that time. Commissioner Miller stated at that time they discussed the percent of the rear yard that could be used for accessory buildings and that it must match the house. Community Development Director Ericson explained that for the most part the design requirements were only addressed for buildings in excess of 950 square feet. He stated smaller sheds generally did not need to match the house. Commissioner Hegland asked if the City received complaints about this issue and what the complaints were. Community Development Director Ericson replied over the last six months calls had increased. He explained most of the calls came from residents on the Lois Drive cul-de-sac. He mentioned there is a density issue in this area. Director Ericson stated the complaints were based on the magnitude of density in the back yards that block site lines to parks or natural areas. He said height limitations are extended also.