CC WORKSESSION 06292015 - Laserfiche WebLink

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June 29, 2015 CC Worksession Page 2 Staff is initiating discussions with the Planning Commission regarding the Animal Ordinance and is seeking a framework for discussion from the City Council. Specifically, staff is seeking feedback regarding the following items: 1) Scope. Staff is proposing to provide a higher level of specificity as it relates to bees and chickens, because these two animals have been the subject to several recent requests by property owners. Also, this ordinance would re-examine the animal list and specifically state that any animals not listed are prohibited (ie goats, ducks, horses, cattle, etc) Are there any other animals Council would like staff and Planning Commission to specifically examine in closer detail? 2) Procedures. Staff is proposing to add procedures for the review and approval of the keeping of bees and chickens, beyond the current “Council approval” language. Options include a conditional use permit (PC and CC review), a license subject to Council approval, or a staff reviewed license. Additionally, staff is seeking feedback on the type of neighbor review/input required. Options include a signed petition from neighbors consenting to the keeping of bees/chickens, or requiring a specified percentage of neighbor consent within a specified distance, a public hearing, or no requirement for neighborhood input or consent. 3) Standards. Staff is proposing to put in place several standards for the keeping of bees and chicken, and is looking for feedback on each, as outlined below: (1) Number. Staff proposes to limit the total number of chickens and hives. A common limitation in other cities is 4 chickens and 2 hives. (2) Setbacks. Staff proposes to establish a 10 foot minimum setback for chicken coops, runs, or yards and at least 25 foot setback for bee hives, and required to be located in rear yard. This is consistent with other, specialty accessory uses in the backyard. (3) Height and size limitations on coops and hives. Staff is seeking feedback from Council on whether or not maximum heights or square footages for coops or hives should be established (outside the standard accessory structure allowances). (4) Training. Staff is proposing to require some level of class, training, and/or licensure for those wanting to keep bees, and to provide evidence of this to city staff. (5) Proper care and maintenance. Staff is proposing to require proper care and maintenance of these animals, and proposes to write a process for receiving and responding to complaints of improper care. The process for review and revocation of a permit is dependent on the type of permit/license considered. RECOMMENDED ACTION Provide guidance on animal ordinance amendments, as outlined above.