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HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023 09-19 Planning Commission PacketMeeting is also available on Comcast Ch. 16 and streaming vod.maplewoodmn.gov AGENDA CITY OF MAPLEWOOD PLANNING COMMISSION 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, September 19, 2023 City Hall, Council Chambers 1830 County Road B East A. CALL TO ORDER B. ROLL CALL C. APPROVAL OF AGENDA D. APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1. August 15, 2023 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes E. PUBLIC HEARING 1. Snake Discovery, 831 Century Avenue North a. Conditional Use Permit Amendment Resolution b. Zoning Map Amendment Ordinance F. NEW BUSINESS None G. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 1. Development Code Updates H. COMMISSION PRESENTATIONS I. STAFF PRESENTATIONS 1. Sacred Communities and Micro-Unit Dwellings Update J. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS – 3 minute time limit per person K. ADJOURNMENT WELCOME TO THIS MEETING OF THE PLANNING COMMISSION This outline has been prepared to help you understand the public meeting process. The review of an item usually takes the following form: 1. The chairperson of the meeting will announce the item to be reviewed and ask for the staff report on the subject. 2. Staff presents their report on the matter. 3. The Commission will then ask City staff questions about the proposal. 4. The chairperson will then ask the audience if there is anyone present who wishes to comment on the proposal. 5. This is the time for the public to make comments or ask questions about the proposal. Please step up to the podium and speak clearly. Give your name and address first and then your comments. 6. After everyone in the audience wishing to speak has given his or her comments, the chairperson will close the public discussion portion of the meeting. 7. The Commission will then discuss the proposal. No further public comments are allowed. 8. The Commission will then make its recommendation or decision. 9. All decisions by the Planning Commission are recommendations to the City Council. The City Council makes the final decision. “Welcome to the meeting of the Maplewood Planning Commission. It is our desire to keep all discussions civil as we work through difficult issues tonight. If you are here for a Public Hearing or to address the Planning Commission, please familiarize yourself with the Policies and Procedures and Rules of Civility, which are located near the entrance. At the podium please state your name and address clearly for the record.” Revised: 02/18 August 15, 2023 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes 1 MINUTES MAPLEWOOD PLANNING COMMISSION 7:00 P.M. Tuesday, August 15, 2023 City Hall, Council Chambers 1830 County Road B East A.CALL TO ORDER A meeting of the Commission was held and called to order at 7:00 p.m. by Vice Chairperson Desai B.ROLL CALL Paul Arbuckle, Chairperson Present – Arrived at 7:03 p.m. Frederick Dahm, Commissioner Present Tushar Desai, Vice Chairperson Present John Eads, Commissioner Present Allan Ige, Commissioner Present Tom Oszman, Commissioner Present Lue Yang, Commissioner Present Staff Present: Michael Martin, Assistant Community Development Director C.APPROVAL OF AGENDA Commissioner Dahm moved to approve the agenda as presented. Seconded by Commissioner Ige Ayes – All The motion passed. D.APPROVAL OF MINUTES 1.June 20, 2023 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes Commissioner Ige moved to approve the June 20, 2023 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes as submitted. Seconded by Commissioner Yang Ayes – All The motion passed. E.PUBLIC HEARING 1.Conditional Use Permit Amendment and Setback Variance Resolution, Former VenburgTire Building Addition, 3001 Highway 61 Michael Martin, Assistant Community Development Director, presented the Conditional Use Permit Amendment and Setback Variance Resolution, Former Venburg Tire Building Addition, 3001 Highway 61, and answered questions from the Commission. Steve Boerboon of SMB Construction addressed the commission and answered questions. D1 PC Packet Page Number 1 of 67 August 15, 2023 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes 2 Chairperson Arbuckle opened the public hearing. There were no speakers for this item. Chairperson Arbuckle closed the public hearing. Commissioner Yang moved to approve a resolution for a conditional use permit amendment and setback variance approving a building addition at 3001 Highway 61. CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AMENDMENT AND SETBACK VARIANCE RESOLUTION BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Maplewood, Minnesota, as follows: Section 1. Background. 1.01 Gries Architectural Group, on behalf of Maplewood Toyota, has requested approval of a conditional use permit amendment and a setback variance to construct a building addition. 1.02 The applicant has also requested approval of a setback variance of 196 feet. 1.03 The property is located at 3001 Highway 61 and is legally described as: PIN: 04-29-22-14-0113 – That part of the north 409.50 feet of the east 500.00 feet of the South· Half of the Northeast Quarter of Section 4, Township 29, Range 22, Ramsey County, Minnesota, lying northerly of a line drawn from a point on the east line of said Northeast Quarter of Section 4 distant 235.77 feet south of the northeast corner of said South Half of the Northeast Quarter of Section 4 to a point on the west line of said east 500.00 feet of the South Half of the Northeast Quarter of Section 4 distant 115 .53 feet south of the northwest corner of said east 500.00 feet of the South Half of the Northeast Quarter of Section 4. Section 2. Standards. 2.01 City Ordinance Section 44-637 requires a Conditional Use Permit for motor vehicle maintenance garages and buildings closer than 350 feet to an adjacent residential district. 2.02 City Ordinance Section 44-512(8) requires auto maintenance garages have a 350-foot setback from any property the city is planning for residential use. 2.03 General Conditional Use Permit Standards. City Ordinance Section 44-1097(a) states that the City Council must base approval of a Conditional Use Permit on the following nine standards for approval. 1. The use would be located, designed, maintained, constructed and operated to be in conformity with the City’s Comprehensive Plan and Code of Ordinances. 2. The use would not change the existing or planned character of the surrounding area. 3. The use would not depreciate property values. 4. The use would not involve any activity, process, materials, equipment or methods of operation that would be dangerous, hazardous, detrimental, disturbing or cause a nuisance to any person or property, because of excessive noise, glare, smoke, dust, D1 PC Packet Page Number 2 of 67 August 15, 2023 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes 3 odor, fumes, water or air pollution, drainage, water run-off, vibration, general unsightliness, electrical interference or other nuisances. 5. The use would not exceed the design standards of any affected street. 6. The use would be served by adequate public facilities and services, including streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, water and sewer systems, schools and parks. 7. The use would not create excessive additional costs for public facilities or services. 8. The use would maximize the preservation of and incorporate the site’s natural and scenic features into the development design. 9. The use would cause minimal adverse environmental effects. 2.04 Variance Standard. City Ordinance Section 44-13 refers to state statute which states a variance may be granted from the requirements of the zoning ordinance when: (1) the variance is in harmony with the general purposes and intent of this ordinance; (2) when the variance is consistent with the comprehensive plan; and (3) when the applicant establishes that there are practical difficulties in complying with the ordinance. Practical difficulties mean: (1) The proposed use is reasonable; (2) the need for a variance is caused by circumstances unique to the property, not created by the property owner, and not solely based on economic conditions. Section 3. Findings. 3.01 The proposal meets the specific conditional use permit standards. 3.02 The proposal meets the specific variance standards. Section 4. City Review Process 4.01 The City conducted the following review when considering these conditional use permit amendment and setback variance requests. 1. On August 15, 2023, the planning commission held a public hearing. The city staff published a hearing notice in the Pioneer Press and sent notices to the surrounding property owners. The planning commission gave everyone at the hearing a chance to speak and present written statements. The planning commission recommended that the city council approve this resolution. 2. On August 28, 2023, the city council discussed this resolution. They considered reports and recommendations from the planning commission and city staff. Section 5. City Council 5.01 The city council hereby _______ the resolution. Approval is based on the findings outlined in section 3 of this resolution. Approval is subject to the following conditions: (additions are underlined and deletions are crossed out): 1. All construction shall follow the site plan that the city stamped February 3, 2004 August 1, 2023. The Director of Community Development may approve minor changes. D1 PC Packet Page Number 3 of 67 August 15, 2023 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes 4 2. The proposed construction must be substantially started, or the proposed use utilized within one year of council approval, or the permit shall become null and void. The council may extend this deadline for one year. 3. The city council shall review this permit in one year. 4. The applicants shall submit a revised landscape plan, prior to the issuance of a building permit, providing four additional a six foot tall and 80 percent opaque landscaped coniferous trees as screening for the abutting property to the west as required by the code. 5. The applicants shall sign a maintenance agreement with the owners of Gulden's and the city for the upkeep of the private roadway. A copy of any executed amendments to the maintenance agreement between the 2999 and 3001 Highway 61 properties shall be submitted to the city. 6. Outdoor tire storage is not allowed by this permit. All tires auto parts and non-operable vehicles shall be kept inside the building or within a screening enclosure. Operable vehicles are permitted to be kept in the parking lot within marked parking spaces. 7. The potential for excessive noise from this business is a concern of neighbors. The operator shall take care to keep doors closed to prevent nuisance noise from affecting residential neighbors. The city council shall review this during its periodic reviews of this permit. The city shall notify the operator of complaints for corrections should there be noise problems. 8. The property owner shall keep all trash receptacles on site inside the required enclosure. Seconded by Commissioner Oszman Ayes – All The motion passed. This item will go to the city council on August 28, 2023. F. NEW BUSINESS 1. Election of Officers (No Report) Commissioner Dahm moved to elect Tushar Desai as Chairperson of the Planning Commission. Seconded by Commissioner Eads Ayes – Chairperson Arbuckle, Vice Chairperson Desai, Commissioners Ige, Yang Abstain - Oszman The motion passed. Commissioner Dahm moved to elect Lue Yang as Vice Chairperson of the Planning Commission. Seconded by Vice Chairperson Desai Ayes – Chairperson Arbuckle, Commissioners Oszman, Ige, Eads Abstain - Yang The motion passed. G. UNFINISHED BUSINESS None D1 PC Packet Page Number 4 of 67 August 15, 2023 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes 5 H. COMMISSION PRESENTATIONS None I. STAFF PRESENTATIONS None J. VISITOR PRESENTATIONS None K. ADJOURNMENT Vice Chairperson Desai moved to adjourn the meeting at 7:23 p.m. Seconded by Commissioner Dahm Ayes – All The motion passed. D1 PC Packet Page Number 5 of 67 THIS PAGE IS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK PC Packet Page Number 6 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT Meeting Date September 19, 2023 REPORT TO: Melinda Coleman, City Manager REPORT FROM: Elizabeth Hammond, Planner PRESENTER: Elizabeth Hammond, Planner AGENDA ITEM: Snake Discovery, 831 Century Avenue North a.Conditional Use Permit Amendment Resolution b.Zoning Map Amendment Ordinance Action Requested:  Motion ☐Discussion  Public Hearing Form of Action: Resolution  Ordinance ☐Contract/Agreement ☐ Proclamation Policy Issue: Snake Discovery has requested to install one exterior light within their parking lot. The property has a conditional use permit from a prior business that operated on the site (a garden center), and one of the conditions explicitly prohibits exterior lighting. An amendment to the conditional use permit is required to proceed with the proposed light. As part of this current proposal to amend the CUP, city staff is proposing to formally rezone the west portion of the property, currently designated as single dwelling residential, where the parking lot is located, to business commercial. The east portion of the property is zoned business commercial, but the overall property is guided as mixed-use. This rezoning will eliminate the zoning and land use inconsistency so that the property complies with the future land use designation in the city’s comprehensive plan. Recommended Action: a. Motion to approve a conditional use permit amendment resolution for the property at 831 Century Avenue North, subject to certain conditions of approval. b. Motion to approve an ordinance amending the City’s zoning map to rezone the west portion of the property at 831 Century Avenue North from R1, single-dwelling residential, to BC, business commercial. Fiscal Impact: Is There a Fiscal Impact?  No ☐ Yes, the true or estimated cost is $ 0.00 Financing source(s): ☐ Adopted Budget ☐ Budget Modification ☐ New Revenue Source ☐Use of Reserves  Other: n/a Strategic Plan Relevance: ☐Community Inclusiveness ☐Financial & Asset Mgmt ☐Environmental Stewardship E1 PC Packet Page Number 7 of 67 ☐Integrated Communication  Operational Effectiveness ☐Targeted Redevelopment The city deemed the applicant’s application complete on August 29, 2023. The initial 60-day review deadline for a decision is October 27, 2023. As stated in Minnesota State Statute 15.99, the city can take an additional 60 days, if necessary, to complete the review. Background: Snake Discovery, an indoor educational zoo and retail store featuring reptiles and amphibians, uses the property. The property has a conditional use permit for outdoor storage, sales, and display from the previous business, a garden center that operated on the site for many years. The conditional use permit for the property was initially granted in 1971 and subsequently amended and reviewed over the years since. Conditions and language within the existing CUP are specific to the last business or don’t apply to Snake Discovery. One specific condition on the CUP states that there cannot be exterior lighting in the parking lot. The applicant is requesting to install one external light in the parking lot to provide visibility and safety for staff and visitors to the zoo and retail store. This has been a concern for the applicant, particularly during the winter, when the daylight hours are shorter. The proposed light and any future exterior lighting must be reviewed by city staff before installation and achieve city ordinance requirements. Conditional Use Permit The site has an existing conditional use permit, which prohibits exterior lighting. The applicant formally requests to amend the CUP for an exterior light. The request requires a revision to the CUP and offers the opportunity to review the conditions on the permit so that they better reflect and address the current site conditions. In doing so, staff recommends that the previous requirements under the CUP granted in 1988 be terminated (attached for reference). Zoning Map Amendment As part of this current proposal to amend the CUP, city staff are proposing to formally rezone the west portion of the property designated as single dwelling residential, where the parking lot is located, to business commercial. This will clean up the zoning and land use inconsistency, ensuring the property’s zoning complies with the future land use guidance in the city’s comprehensive plan. The current land use guidance for the property is Mixed Use – Neighborhood. Historically, the property has been used for commercial uses but was previously zoned and guided in the comp plan for low-density residential. In 1988, the city council approved re-guiding the property’s land use to commercial and rezoning a portion of the property to commercial, where the building is located, keeping a part of the property where the parking lot is situated as residential. The surrounding neighbors opposed the business expanding the operations on the parking lot and towards the residential street to the west; as a result, the use of the parking lot behind the commercial building, while part of the same property, was restricted to parking only. Commission and City Council Review Planning Commission E1 PC Packet Page Number 8 of 67 September 19, 2023: The Planning Commission will review the conditional use permit amendment and zoning map amendment ordinance. City Council October 9, 2023: The City Council will review the request and make the final determination on the conditional use permit amendment and zoning map amendment ordinance. Department Comments None. Public Comments Staff sent a public hearing notice and application details to the properties within 500 feet of the subject property. No public comments were received. Reference Information Site Description Site Size: 1.04 Acres Existing Land Use: Snake Discovery (Commercial) Surrounding Land Uses North: Single Dwelling Residential South: Commercial and Single Dwelling Residential East: Commercial West: Single Dwelling Residential Planning Existing Land Use: Mixed-Use, Neighborhood Existing Zoning: Commercial and Single Dwelling Residential Attachments: 1.Conditional Use Permit Amendment Resolution 2.Zoning Map Amendment Ordinance 3.Overview Map 4.Future Land Use Map 5.Zoning Map 6.Applicant’s Narrative 7.Lighting Plan 8.CUP Conditions, Dated June 1, 1988 E1 PC Packet Page Number 9 of 67 CONDITIONAL USE PERMIT AMENDMENT RESOLUTION BE IT RESOLVED by the City Council of the City of Maplewood, Minnesota, as follows: Section 1. Background. 1.01 Edward Robert, on behalf of Snake Discovery, has requested to amend the Conditional Use Permit for the property located at 831 Century Avenue North. 1.02 The property located at 831 Century Avenue North is legally described as: All of Lots 2, 31 and 32, Block 1, and that part of Lot 1, Block 1 described as follows: Beginning at the southeast corner of said Lot 1; thence westerly to the southwest corner of said Lot 1; thence northerly along the west line of said Lot 1 a distance of 21.9 feet; thence easterly to a point on the east line of said Lot 1 16.18 feet North of said southeast corner of Lot 1; thence southerly to the point of beginning. All in CAHANES ACRES, Ramsey County, Minnesota. PIN: 252922440052 Section 2. Standards. 2.01 General Conditional Use Permit Standards. City Ordinance Section 44-1097(a) states that the City Council must base approval of a Conditional Use Permit on the following nine standards for approval. 1. The use would be located, designed, maintained, constructed and operated to be in conformity with the City’s Comprehensive Plan and Code of Ordinances. 2. The use would not change the existing or planned character of the surrounding area. 3. The use would not depreciate property values. 4. The use would not involve any activity, process, materials, equipment or methods of operation that would be dangerous, hazardous, detrimental, disturbing or cause a nuisance to any person or property, because of excessive noise, glare, smoke, dust, odor, fumes, water or air pollution, drainage, water run-off, vibration, general unsightliness, electrical interference or other nuisances. 5. The use would not exceed the design standards of any affected street. 6. The use would be served by adequate public facilities and services, including streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures, water and sewer systems, schools and parks. 7. The use would not create excessive additional costs for public facilities or services. E1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 10 of 67 8.The use would maximize the preservation of and incorporate the site’s natural and scenic features into the development design. 9.The use would cause minimal adverse environmental effects. Section 3. Findings. 3.01 The proposal meets the specific Conditional Use Permit standards. Section 4. City Review Process 4.01 The City conducted the following review when considering this conditional use permit request. 1.On September 19, 2023, the Planning Commission held a public hearing. City staff published a hearing notice in the Pioneer Press and sent notices to the surrounding property owners. The Planning Commission gave everyone at the hearing a chance to speak and present written statements. The Planning Commission recommended that the City Council ________ this resolution. 2.On October 9, 2023, the City Council discussed this resolution. They considered reports and recommendations from the planning commission and City staff. Section 5. City Council 5.01 The City Council hereby _______ the resolution. Approval is based on the findings outlined in section 3 of this resolution. Approval is subject to the following conditions: 1.All previous CUP conditions, including the CUP granted on June 1, 1988, are terminated. 2.The city council will review the permit in one year. 3.Outdoor sales, storage, and display are not permitted in the parking lot. These activities are allowed, however, limited to the area underneath the canopy structure along the west side of the building or at the main entrance on the east side of the building, off Century Avenue. 4.A trash enclosure is required around all trash containers or dumpsters and shall be 100 percent opaque. The enclosure must meet city ordinance requirements in Section 44-19 (e). The enclosure is required to be maintained at all times. 5.The fence surrounding the parking lot perimeter must always be maintained or repaired as needed. 6. Exterior lighting is required to be reviewed by city staff before installation and to achieve city ordinance requirements. The applicant will submit all the necessary plans for review as described in Section 44-20 (c) (1). _______________ by the City Council of the City of Maplewood, Minnesota, on October 9, 2023. E1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 11 of 67 A ZONING MAP AMENDMENT ORDINANCE REZONING THE PROPERTY LOCATED AT 831 CENTURY AVENUE NORTH FROM THE R1, SINGLE DWELLING RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT TO THE BC, BUSINESS COMMERCIAL DISTRICT The City of Maplewood, Minnesota Ordains: Section 1. 1.01 The property located at 831 Century Avenue North is legally described as: All of Lots 2, 31 and 32, Block 1, and that part of Lot 1, Block 1 described as follows: Beginning at the southeast corner of said Lot 1; thence westerly to the southwest corner of said Lot 1; thence northerly along the west line of said Lot 1 a distance of 21.9 feet; thence easterly to a point on the east line of said Lot 1 16.18 feet North of said southeast corner of Lot 1; thence southerly to the point of beginning. All in CAHANES ACRES, Ramsey County, Minnesota. PIN: 252922440052 1.02 The property is hereby rezoned from R1, single dwelling residential district, to BC, business commercial district. Section 2. 2.01 This ordinance is based on the following findings: 1.The rezoning to BC, business commercial district would result in land use and development compatible with the existing surrounding development type. 2.The rezoning would be consistent with the intent of the zoning ordinance and the comprehensive plan. 3.The rezoning would be consistent with public health, safety, and welfare. Section 3. 3.01 This ordinance is effective upon publication in the city’s official newspaper. _________ by the City Council of the City of Maplewood, Minnesota, on October 9, 2023. E1, Attachment 2 PC Packet Page Number 12 of 67 Subject Parcel E1, Attachment 3 PC Packet Page Number 13 of 67 Subject Parcel E1, Attachment 4 PC Packet Page Number 14 of 67 Subject Parcel E1, Attachment 5 PC Packet Page Number 15 of 67 The property this condi�onal use permit is currently being used for is a parking lot for the retail/zoo named Snake Discovery. The current issue as it sits today is there is no light illumina�ng the parking lot. This has security concerns for the staff of Snake Discovery as well as the customers as the business stays open un�l 8pm and staff generally leaves around 9pm. This, along with the parking lot being behind the Snake Discovery building (hidden from Century Ave.), encourages a dangerous environment without proper ligh�ng. The proposed ligh�ng report put together by Total Ligh�ng has one light fixture in the center of the parking lot that should adequately light the en�re parking lot without affec�ng neighbors, as the property edge will only see .5-foot candles. No other changes would be made to the area, which should not affect the exis�ng character of the surrounding area or depreciate property values. The light described to be used will be LED causing as litle environmental effect as possible while s�ll ligh�ng en�re lot. The intended purpose would only be for the safety of customers and staff of the Snake Discovery facility. E1, Attachment 6 PC Packet Page Number 16 of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ttachment 7 PC Packet Page Number 17 of 67 12.The zero setback to the R-1 zone to the west is justified sincethe R-1 zone is developed as a commercial parking lot. 13.The existi ng setback to the south lot line is justified sincethe canopy is an extension of the existing building line andremoving part of the canopy to meet the setback would be lessattractive and expose storage and sales items to view. Approval is subject to the following conditions: 1.The site plan submitted by Mr. Dege on October 27, 1986, shallbe revised based on a survey of the south lot line and the westline of the cano py. The revised plan and the remodeling planssubmitted on December 15, 1987, and May 23, 1988, shall be co n­sidere d part of this permit, except for any change must be ap­proved by the Community Design Review Board. 2.The parking lot may only be used for parking for the gardencenter building. 3.No commercial use for sale, storage, display or advertisin gsigns of garden materials, plants, or any other kinds of goodsshall be allowed anywhere on the legally described property towhich this conditional use permit is issued or the parking lot. 4.No portion of this site or parking lot shall be used for truckor trailer storage. S.Review, renewal or revocation of this permit shall in accordancewith City code. 6.Any trees on the site that die must be replaced. 7.No exterior lighting or speakers shall be allowed. 8.The canopy shall not be enclosed for year around use. 9.Sales under the canopy or outdoors shall be limited to gardenproducts from March through October. No other type of salesor storage shall be allowed. 10.Council may require removal of the canopy for additionalparking or to reduce parking demand if the use changes. 11.A fence does not have to be constructed along the south lot line. S�c��ded by Councilmember Juker. b.Garage R�oval Deadline Ayes -all. 1.Councilmembe� Juker moved that the deadline for the garage removalbe September 30, 1'5192.,_ Motion died for lack "If a second. 8 6/1/ 81! E1, Attachment 8 PC Packet Page Number 18 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT Meeting Date September 19, 2023 REPORT TO: Melinda Coleman, City Manager REPORT FROM: Michael Martin, AICP, Assistant Community Development Director Elizabeth Hammond, Planner PRESENTER: Elizabeth Hammond, Planner AGENDA ITEM: Development Code Updates Action Requested: ☐ Motion  Discussion ☐ Public Hearing Form of Action: ☐ Resolution ☐ Ordinance ☐ Contract/Agreement ☐ Proclamation Policy Issue: Staff and HKGi continue to work on proposed changes to the zoning code. Based on recent discussions with the City Council, Community Design Review Board, and Planning Commission, Staff, and HKGi have undergone another round of edits for the Planning Commission’s review and discussion. The current updates proposed will address the following areas: 1. Signage and Mural Regulations 2. Mixed Use District 3. Nonconformities The attached report from HKGi and associated attachments will provide information and context for reviewing these proposed updates. Recommended Action: No action is requested at this time. Please review the memo attached to this report from HKGi. Fiscal Impact: Is There a Fiscal Impact?  No ☐ Yes, the true or estimated cost is $0 Financing source(s): ☐ Adopted Budget ☐ Budget Modification ☐ New Revenue Source ☐ Use of Reserves  Other: N/A Strategic Plan Relevance: ☐ Community Inclusiveness ☐ Financial & Asset Mgmt ☐ Environmental Stewardship ☐ Integrated Communication  Operational Effectiveness ☐ Targeted Redevelopment Much of the city’s zoning code has not been updated since 1982, and by working to update key sections of the code, it will ensure Maplewood’s regulations are working to guide and encourage high-quality development in the city. G1 PC Packet Page Number 19 of 67 Background: Please review the attached report from HKGi and the other attachments before the September 19, 2023, Planning Commission Meeting. Depending on the discussion outcomes on September 19, staff and HKGi intend to publish notice of a public hearing for the Planning Commission's October 17, 2023 meeting in which the commission would formally recommend the code updates it has been reviewing over the last two years. The City Council would then consider the updates for adoption in November. Attachments: 1.HKGi Report G1 PC Packet Page Number 20 of 67 DEVELOPMENT CODE UPDATE   TO:  City of Maplewood Planning Commission  FROM:Rita Trapp and Kendra Ellner, Consulting Planners  DATE:  September 12, 2023  SUBJECT:  Development Code Updates   MEETING DATE: September 19, 2023  Staff and HKGi continue to work on proposed changes to the zoning code. Based on recent discussions  with the City Council, Community Design Review Board, and Planning Commission, Staff and HKGi have  undergone another round of edits for Planning Commission’s review and discussion. The current  updates proposed will address the following areas:   1)Signage and Mural Regulations 2)Mixed Use District 3)Nonconformities An overview of the proposed changes in each area is provided below and drafts of each of the sections  is included for your review.   Signage  As noted previously, the City’s regulations for signage have been modified to address the most recent  federal case law which prevents cities from regulating signs based on their content (for example –  garage sale, real estate, construction, etc.). Since the last update there have been additional  improvements made to clarify sight lines, illumination, temporary construction signs, digital displays  and murals. Highlights of changes proposed include:  It was clarified in the general standards that signs located near the corner of two intersecting streets shall comply with clear sight triangle requirements. In addition, specifically for freestanding signs, there was a provision added that this sign’s placement shall not block or obstruct the view of driveways. Sign illumination was reviewed to ensure that general standards for outdoor lighting requirements were reserved and that illumination must be constant and steady. Further discussion is needed to make adjustments to the Mixed‐Use District for internally illuminated signage. Staff will be sharing examples of illuminated signs at the meeting for discussion. Upon Planning Commission’s request, Staff reviewed precedents for temporary construction signs and acknowledged that properties with open building permits could be allowed more G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 21 of 67 Planning Report – Development Code Update – September 12, 2023    2 than one temporary construction sign without a permit. However, the size of the sign will be  limited to 64 sq ft and 10ft in height.   Dynamic displays were revised after reviewing local precedents. Staff determined a decrease in  digital sign frequency changes to 15 seconds would be appropriate. Specific standards in the  MU and NE district were clarified to be consistent with character of the districts.    Murals were reexamined based on Planning Commission concerns that they should not be  allowed on residential structures. Staff is not proposing to specifically prohibit murals from  residential uses as any request for a mural will need to prepare and have approved a  comprehensive mural plan which should be a sufficient process to ensure appropriate design.    While preparing revisions Staff identified a need for further discussion about window signs. According  to the sign code definitions, window sign means a sign painted on a window or placed inside the  building to be viewed through a window by the public. This does not include merchandise on display in  a window, seasonal displays of holiday pictures, decals, lights, and decorations that do not contain a  commercial message or signs which are legally required to be posted. Currently the sign code allows  temporary signs as both temporary and permanent as described below:  1. Allowed as a temporary sign in all non‐residential districts with no permit. Temporary window  signs shall be neatly painted or attached to the surface of a window, but shall cover no more  than 30 percent of the total area of the window.   2. Also allowed in the MU and NE districts as a permanent sign. A permanent window sign shall be  applied directly to the window or hung inside the window but cannot be painted directly onto  the window. A window sign shall not cover more than 1/3 of the window or door in which the  sign is placed. Window signs are considered one of the allowable building signs.   Mixed Use  The Mixed‐Use (MU) District applies to a few areas of the community. However, Gladstone has been  the main area where development has occurred. In reviewing the district, Staff and HKGi were mindful  of the distinction between this district and the North End District as it is anticipated that in the MU  district redevelopment will primarily occur within existing infrastructure (roads, utilities, etc.) as  opposed to creating new streets. This means that the standards focus more around building design  than addressing the creation of a new neighborhood. Generally, changes proposed are formatting or to  align the district with other changes already discussed, such as use terminology and use specific  standards. Clarification was also added to shared parking.  Given the size of the use tables the table below summarizes the proposed allowable principal uses  within the mixed use district as was previously discussed.   G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 22 of 67 Planning Report – Development Code Update – September 12, 2023  3 MU District Principal Use Table Summary Permitted Uses Permitted with Standards Conditional Uses  Dwelling, apartment Dwelling, single‐unit Live‐work unit  Dwelling, apartment mixed use Dwelling, double (duplex) Assisted living facility  Residential care, licensed in‐home  (6 or fewer)  Bed and breakfast Continuing care facility  Short‐term vacation rental Animal veterinary clinic Residential care, licensed in‐home  (7 or more)  Adult day or child care center Publishing or printing  establishment  Bed and breakfast  Club, lodge or hall Community and market garden,  under 1 acre in size  Cemetery, crematory, or  mausoleum  Clinic, medical, dental, or health  related  Religious facilities  Health/sports club Private school, day care center or  community service use  Indoor organized athletic  activities, such as dance, physical  fitness or karate  Public and quasipublic uses  appropriate to the district, such as  hospitals; and professional,  business and technical schools.  Indoor theater Assisted living facility  On‐sale liquor School  Restaurant Animal boarding, shelter, or  daycare center  Place of amusement, recreation or  assembly, other than an indoor  theater, indoor athletic activity or  itinerant carnival  Motor vehicle minor motor fuel  station  Specialty food or coffee shop Studio or makerspace  Financial institution Brewery, winery, distillery  Personal service Manufacturing, light  G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 23 of 67 Planning Report – Development Code Update – September 12, 2023    4 MU District Principal Use Table Summary Permitted Uses Permitted with Standards Conditional Uses  Small appliance and electronic  component or equipment repair   Community and market garden,  more than 1 acre in size  Retail  Antennas and towers  Office     Public and private utilities (see  CUP section)    Off‐street parking     Nonconformities  As commissioners are aware, over the course of the update process additional sections have been  identified as needing review and revision. Most recently as part of updating the mixed‐use district,  Staff and HKGi identified the nonconformities section as needing updating to ensure ease of use and  consistency with State statue. This section has been reorganized to group the nonconformities by type  (lot, building or use) and clarified to align with state statue.   Exhibits   Article III Sign Regulations Draft   Mixed Use District Draft   Nonconformities Code Language Draft  G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 24 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 ARTICLE II. SIGN AND MURAL REGULATIONS Secs. 44-731. Purpose and intent. (1) The purpose of this article is to establish a comprehensive and impartial system of sign regulations that balances the needs for effective visual communication including business identification and the needs for a safe, well-maintained, and attractive community. It is intended through the provisions contained herein to: a. Promote signs which by their design and dimensions are integrated and harmonized with the surrounding environment and the buildings and sites they occupy. b. Protect the public from damage or injury caused by signs that are poorly designed or maintained and from signs that cause distractions or hazards to motorists and pedestrians using the public streets, sidewalks, and public right-of- way. c. Avoid excessive signage in order to give each business or use optimum visibility to passer-by traffic and prevent cluttering of the streetscape. (Ord. No. 896, § 1, 1-25-2010) Secs. 44-732. Definitions. (see illustrations of sign types at the end of the draft regulations) The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this article, shall have the meanings ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning: Abandoned sign means a sign or sign structure that is located on a building or property that has been vacant or unoccupied for a period of three months or more, or a sign which pertains to a time, event, or purpose that no longer applies. Signs applicable to a business temporarily suspended because of a change in ownership or management of such business shall not be deemed abandoned unless the property remains vacant for a period of at least six months. Administrator means the director of community development or other person charged with the administration and enforcement of this article. Alteration, major means any major alteration to a sign, but shall not include routine maintenance, painting, or change of the sign face of an existing sign. Alteration, minor means a change of sign copy, sign face, sign color, or modifications or repairs to an existing sign that are cosmetic in nature or include a replacement of parts. Expansion of an existing sign does not constitute a minor alteration. Awning means a covering attached on the façade of a building which projects typically over a door, window, or sidewalk. Awning/canopy sign means a sign affixed flat to the surface of an awning or canopy which does not extend vertically or horizontally beyond the limits of such awning or canopy. Banner sign means a temporary sign that is constructed of cloth, flexible plastic, or fabric of any kind which can be easily folded or rolled. This term does not include flags. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 25 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 Billboard means a freestanding, off-site sign located adjacent to a principal arterial street. Building sign means any sign affixed to a building or an appurtenance of a building including wall signs, projecting signs, window signs, and awning/canopy signs. Changeable copy message board means a sign or portion of a sign which is characterized by interchangeable letters and figures. This definition shall not include dynamic display signs. Commercial sign means any sign, display, or device designed, intended or used to encourage or promote purchase or use of goods or services. Comprehensive sign or mural plan means a coordinated plan for all signs and/or murals located on a site or within a single development. Community design review board means the body established in Section 2 of this Ordinance as a committee of the City Council which reviews site plans, building design, landscape plans, and signage. Dynamic display sign means any sign designed for outdoor use that is capable of displaying a video signal, including, but not limited to, cathode-ray tubes (CRT), light-emitting diode (LED) displays, plasma displays, liquid-crystal displays (LCD), or other technologies used in commercially available televisions or computer monitors. Flag means any device generally made of flexible materials, such as cloth, and designed to be attached to a flagpole on one edge only. Flashing sign means an illuminated sign which contains flashing lights or exhibits with noticeable changes in light intensity. Freestanding sign means a sign that is attached to, erected on, or supported by an architecturally-planned structure (such as a pole, mast, frame, or other structure) that is not itself an integral part of or attached to a building or other structure whose principal function is something other than the support of a sign. This definition includes pylon signs and monument signs. Graffiti means unauthorized markings of paint, dye, or other similar substance that have been placed on real or personal property such as buildings, fences, transportation equipment, or other structures, or the unauthorized etching or scratching of the surfaces of such real or personal property, any of which markings, scratching, or etchings are visible from the site open to the public. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 26 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 Ground banner sign means a sign constructed of cloth, canvas, or other similar light material which is affixed to the ground. Ground grade means the elevation of the ground closest to the sign to which reference is made. Illuminated sign means a sign that is illuminated internally by a light source inside the sign or externally by means of external light fixtures directed at the sign. Institutional or public uses means uses such as public schools, fire stations, libraries, water system facilities, religious institutions, cemeteries, private schools, and other city, county, and state-used and owned properties. Message display face means the surface of the sign where the signs image or message is displayed. Monument sign means a permanent, freestanding sign located directly at ground grade where the width dimension of the architecturally designed base is 50 percent or more of the greatest width of the sign face. Multiple tenant building means a commercial building containing two or more tenants. Mural means artwork on the exterior of a building, generally for the purpose of decoration or artistic expression, including, but not limited to, paintings, markings, and etchings. A mural is not intended or used to encourage or promote purchase or use of goods or services. Noncommercial sign means a sign which expresses an opinion, point of view, or statement such as political, religious, or ideological sentiment, or support or opposition to a candidate or proposition for public election. Nonconforming sign means a sign lawfully erected and maintained prior to the adoption of this article that does not conform to the requirements of this article. Off-site sign means a sign located outside of the parcel lines or boundaries of the property or development for which the sign is constructed. On-site sign means a sign located within the parcel lines or boundaries of the property or development for which the sign is constructed. Painted wall sign means a sign painted or applied through adhesive tape directly on the exterior wall of a building or structure. Permanent sign means a sign permanently attached to a building, structure, or the ground which is constructed of durable materials and intended for long-term use. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 27 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 Projecting sign means a sign, other than a wall sign, which is supported and projects from more than 18 inches at a right angle from the wall of a building. Property Identification sign means a sign identifying the street address of a building for public safety reasons. Pylon sign means a sign that is mounted on a narrow freestanding pole or other support structure so that the bottom edge of the sign face is at least six feet above the architecturally designed base. Roof line means the uppermost line of the roof of a building or, in the case of an extended façade, the uppermost height of said façade. Roof sign means a sign erected upon the roof of a building or extending above the roof line of the building to which it is attached, and which is wholly or partially supported by said building. Sign means a communication device displaying graphics, symbols, or written copy visible from the public right-of-way and designed to attract the attention of the general public. This definition does not include murals or architectural lighting, such as neon that has no sign copy. For the purpose of removal, signs shall also include all sign structures. Sign face means the surface of the sign including letters and background upon, against, or through which the message is displayed or illustrated. Sign structure means the supports, braces, and framework of a sign. Street means public or private thoroughfare for vehicular traffic which affords primary means of access to abutting property. Street frontage means the lot line of a parcel abutting a street. Street, collector means a street designated in the city’s comprehensive plan which is designed to serve as a traffic way for a neighborhood or as a feeder to an arterial street. Street, local means a street designated in the city’s comprehensive plan which serves short trips at low speeds. Street, minor arterial means a street designated in the city's comprehensive plan which connects sub-regions that are the closest routes parallel to the principal arterials and supplements and provides relief for traffic to the principal arterial. Street, principal arterial, means a street designated in the city's comprehensive plan which is designed to carry the highest volume of traffic, allows the highest speeds, and provides subregional, regional, and inter-community access. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 28 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 Temporary sign means any sign or advertising display constructed of cloth, canvas, light fabric, cardboard, wallboard or other materials, with or without frames, intended to be displayed for a limited period of time only. Wall sign means a flat sign which does not project more than 18 inches from the face or wall of the building upon which it is attached, running parallel for its whole length to the face or wall of the building, and which does not extend beyond the horizontal width of such building. Wall surface of the building means the total horizontal surface area of the building face to which the sign is attached, including windows and door areas, measured to the extreme outer limits of such wall surface. Window sign means a sign painted on a window or placed inside the building to be viewed through a window by the public. This does not include merchandise on display in a window, seasonal displays of holiday pictures, decals, lights, and decorations that do not contain a commercial message or signs which are legally required to be posted. (Ord. No. 896, § 3, 1-25-2010; Ord. No. 908, § 1, 8-9-2010; Ord. No. 1000, § 1, 3-25-2019; Ord. No. 1023, § I, 10-11-2021) Secs. 44-733. Sign area and height computation. (1) The area of a sign is determined by the Administrator using actual dimensions where practical or approximate dimensions when irregularity of a sign shape warrants. a. Sign area. Sign area shall be calculated by measuring the entire area within a continuous perimeter enclosing the extreme limits of the sign message and background. i. Where the sign is a separate panel, structure, or other material forming a single display, the area of the message display face shall constitute the area of the sign. ii. Where the sign consists of any combination of individual letters, panels, numbers, figures, illustrations, or of a line or lines, to form a display or sign, the area of the sign shall be computed using the outside dimensions of the various words, figures, and illustrations composing the entire sign. iii. In the case of a sign designed with more than one exterior surface, the area shall be computed as including only the maximum single display surface which is visible from any ground position at one time. iv. The supports, uprights, bases, or structures on which any sign is supported shall not count towards the sign area unless the supports, uprights, bases, or structures are an integral part of the sign display. b. Sign height. The height of a sign shall be measured by the vertical distance from the ground grade to the top of a sign and includes its support structures. (Ord. No. 896, § 4, 1-25-2010) Secs. 44-734. Prohibited signs. (1) The following signs are prohibited: G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 29 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 a. Signs or sign structures attached or supported on balconies, fences, or other nonpermanent structures. b. Signs attached or supported on a permanently parked vehicle or semi-trailers. This shall not include signs painted directly on a parked vehicle or semi-trailer used in the business or facility or on site. c. Signs on rocks, trees, or other natural features or public utility poles. d. Permanent or temporary signs that have blinking, flashing, or fluttering lights, or that make noise. e. Signs or sign structures that obstruct any part of a fire escape, doorway, standpipe, or opening intended to provide ingress or egress for any building structures. f. Signs that by reason of location, color, or intensity create a hazard to the safe, efficient movement of vehicles or pedestrian traffic. No sign on private property shall contain words which might be construed as traffic controls such as "stop," "caution," "warning," etc., unless such sign is intended to direct traffic on the site. g. Painted wall signs. h. Roof signs. i. Off-site signs except for where specifically permitted in this article. j. Signs having features or incorporating parts of any sign prohibited in this article. (Ord. No. 896, § 7, 1-25-2010; Ord. No. 1000, § 3, 3-25-2019) Secs. 44-735. General regulations and standards. (1) All signs shall be constructed in a manner and of such materials that they shall be safe and in compliance with the building ordinance. In addition, all signs containing electrical wiring shall be subject to the provisions of the current state electrical ordinance. a. Maintenance. All signs, together with all of their supports, braces, and anchors, shall be kept in repair and in proper state of preservation. The display surfaces of all signs shall be kept neatly painted or posted at all times. Banners shall be designed in such a way as to avoid becoming torn or weathered. b. Every sign and the immediate surrounding site shall be maintained by the owner or person in charge thereof in a clean, sanitary, and inoffensive condition, and free and clear of all obnoxious substances, rubbish, and weeds. c. Attachment to buildings. All signs attached to a building shall not obstruct any fire escape, exit, standpipe, or any window required for light or ventilation. The signs shall be placed flat against the building and project no further than 18 inches from the building except where specifically allowed in this article. d. Freestanding sign placement. All signs not attached to any building or structure shall maintain at least a ten-foot setback from any lot line and shall not be placed in a public right-of-way unless specifically stated otherwise in this article. No such sign shall project over a property line or a public right-of-way, except where allowed in this article, and all required clearances from overhead power and service lines must be maintained. Sign shall not block or obstruct the view of driveways.Signs placed near the corner of two intersecting streets shall comply with clear sight triangle requirements (refer to article VII, sections 32-246 through 32-251 - sight obstructions at intersections). G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 30 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 e. Sight lines. Signs placed near the corner of two intersecting streets shall comply with clear sight triangle requirements. f. Illumination. All illuminated signs must be in compliance with the city's outdoor lighting requirements in section 44-20. In addition, illumination for all signs shall be constant and steady. g. Abandoned signs. Abandoned signs shall be removed by the owner of the site by removing the sign face, painting the sign face a neutral color or installing blank sign face panels. The inner components of the sign must not be exposed. If the sign face is not re-used after one year, the remaining sign structure must be removed unless the Administrator grants an extension subject to the owner submitting a statement of intent and a reasonable time line for reuse of the sign structure. h. Licensing. All contractors installing permanent signs must first obtain a contractor's license prior to issuance of a sign permit or installation of a permanent sign as defined in the city contractor and subcontractor ordinance (article VI). (Ord. No. 896, § 10, 1-25-2010; Ord. No. 1000, § 4, 3-25-2019) Secs. 44-736. Exempt signs. (1) Any sign listed below shall be exempt from obtaining a sign permit but shall be required to meet any general standards identified in this chapter. a. Any public notice or warning sign required to be maintained or posted by law or governmental order, rule, or regulation. b. Flags and emblems that are political or ideological. c. Any sign inside a building that is not attached to an exterior window or not legible from a distance of more than ten feet from outside the building. c.d. Any sign located within a multi-tenant building, such as a mall or an office building, that is only viewable from inside the building. d.e. Traffic control signs as defined by state law. e.f. Property identification sign. f.g. One wall sign of not more than two square feet for a residence with a permitted home occupation. g.h. Temporary displays of lights and decorations. h.i. No trespassing signs. Signs not exceeding nine square feet, located upon private property, and directed towards the prevention of trespassing. (Ord. No. 896, § 8, 1-25-2010; Ord. No. 908, § 3, 8-9-2010) Secs. 44-737. Temporary signs. (1) Unless specifically identified below, all temporary signs do not require a sign permit or a comprehensive sign plan, and shall not count towards the building or property permanent sign maximum signage allowed: a. Temporary Signs Allowed in Any District i. On-site temporary signs 1. Temporary freestanding sign. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 31 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 a. One Nnonilluminated temporary freestanding sign not exceeding three square feet in area and no more than three feet in height is permitted on private property for a period not to exceed 30 days, four times per year. b. No part of such sign shall be closer than five feet to the street pavement or one foot to a sidewalk or trail. Said sign shall not be located between the street and a sidewalk or trail. 2. Temporary signs and displays under 12 square feet in area. a. One nonilluminated temporary sign or display under 12 square feet is allowed per property (except for single and double-dwelling properties) for a period not to exceed 30 days total per sign, four times per year. b. For commercial buildings with multiple occupants, each separate tenant is permitted one such sign. c. No more than three temporary signs under 12 square feet shall be allowed at a property at any one time. 3. Properties with open building permits. a. One temporary sign on a property with an open building permit is permitted A property with an open building permit is permitted to have more than one temporary construction sign immediately prior to or during the construction of a development. b. Each such sign shall not exceed a ratio of one square foot of sign area for each 1,000 square feet of lot area. In no case shall the sign exceed 64 square feet in area and ten feet in height. c. The sign shall be removed within 30 days after major construction has finished. 4. Properties that are for sale or rent. a. One temporary freestanding sign is permitted for each street upon which the property has frontage. i. For single and double-dwelling lots, such sign shall not exceed nine square feet in area. ii. For all other types of property, each sign shall not exceed a ratio of one square foot of sign area for each 1,000 square feet of lot area. In no case shall the area of any one sign exceed 64 square feet or ten feet in height. b. All such signs shall be removed within seven calendar days of the close of the property or when 90 percent or more of the dwelling units on the property have been sold, leased, or rented. 5. Noncommercial signs. a. Any sign which meets MS § 211B.045. b. One noncommercial sign which shall not be illuminated, exceed 16 square feet in area, and shall be no more than six feet in height. For multiple-unit developments, the sign shall be attached to the dwelling unit or placed in a location that clearly indicates ownership. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 32 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 ii. Off-site temporary signs 1. Off-site signs on private property. An off-site sign not exceeding three square feet in area may be placed on private property. Such signs require a permit, shall not be located in the public right-of-way, and the sign owner/installer must supply written permission to the city from the property owner on which property the sign is installed. Each development is limited to one such sign. 2. Off-site signs in the public right of way. An off-site sign not exceeding three square feet in area and no more than three feet in height may be placed on the public right-of-way. a. No part of such sign shall be closer than five feet to the street pavement or one foot to a sidewalk or trail. Said sign shall not be placed between the street and a sidewalk or trail. b. Off-site signs may be placed in the public right-of-way for 30 days maximum. 3. Signs for nonprofit or civic businesses. Off-site temporary signs for legally recognized nonprofit businesses (e.g., 501.c3 designations) as well as civic organizations (i.e. places of worship, parks, nature centers, historic sites, etc.) are allowed in the public right-of-way. a. Said sign is limited to four square feet in area with a maximum of three signs per nonprofit or civic organization. b. The location of off-site temporary signs must be approved by the city prior to installation. b. Temporary Signs on Properties Designated Park in the Maplewood Comprehensive Plan. i. Temporary signs located within a park and/or sports facility are allowed subject to the following standards: 1. Banners. Banners may be displayed in parks for special events sponsored or approved by the city. No more than three banners may be displayed per park at any one time. Each banner shall not exceed 64 square feet. Banners shall be designed to be professional looking and prevented from becoming torn or weathered. 2. Signs for baseball, softball, and hockey fields. Signs may be allowed with the approval of a comprehensive sign plan (also refer to section 44-732). a. Number and size of signs shall be determined by an approved comprehensive sign plan. b. No sign shall be illuminated except by the regular sports facility lighting during hours of use. c. Signs are allowed to be installed for a period of one year during the baseball, softball, or hockey season. d. Signs placed at baseball and softball fields shall be located on the outfield fences or the scoreboard, or both. Such signs shall be oriented toward the field of play. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 33 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 e. Signs placed at hockey rinks shall be located on the interior sides of the hockey boards. 3. The Maplewood Parks & Natural Resources Department will administer all temporary park and sports facility signs in accordance with the approved comprehensive sign plan. 4. Sponsorships collected for such signs will be used to help fund recreational facilities within the park in which they are installed. c. Temporary Signs in Residential Districts. i. In addition to the temporary signs allowed for all zoning districts, the following temporary signs shall be allowed in any residential zoning district unless specifically stated: 1. Temporary banners. a. Temporary banners may be displayed without a permit for residential subdivisions and multiple-unit developments and for all legal nonresidential uses excluding home occupation businesses for a period not to exceed 60 days per year, per property. b. No more than one banner may be displayed per property at any one time. c. Each banner shall not exceed 32 square feet in area and must be attached to a building or other permanent structure. 2. Temporary signs and displays over 12 square feet. a. One temporary sign or display over 12 square feet is permitted by sign permit for up to 30 days per year, per property. The city shall consider a sign displayed for part of a day as having been up for an entire day. b. All signs require a sign permit unless otherwise noted. The permit fee shall not be charged for temporary signs and displays erected by civic organizations, religious organizations, or other nonprofit organizations. c. In no case shall the area of the sign exceed 32 square feet in area or eight feet in height. 3. Ground banner signs. a. Public or institutional uses in any residential district shall be allowed one ground banner sign per every 150 feet of street frontage. b. Townhouse and apartment developments iIn the R-3 district shall be allowed , one ground banner sign shall be allowed per every 150 feet of street frontage. c. The sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in size. d. All ground banner signs shall be removed after 60 days. d. Temporary Signs in Non-Residential Districts. i. In addition to the temporary signs allowed for all zoning districts, the following temporary signs shall be allowed in any non-residential zoning district: 1. Temporary banners. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 34 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 a. For single tenant buildings, temporary banners may be displayed without a sign permit for a period not to exceed 60 days total per year. No more than one banner may be displayed per property at any one time. b. For multiple-tenant buildings, each separate tenant may display temporary banners without a sign permit for a period not to exceed 60 days total per year. No more than one banner may be displayed per separate tenant at any one time. c. Each banner shall be attached to a building or other permanent structure. d. Maximum size. i. In the LBC (limited business commercial), CO (commercial office), SC (shopping center), and NC (neighborhood commercial) zoning districts each banner shall not exceed 32 square feet in size. ii. In the BC (business commercial), BC(M) (business commercial modified), M-1 (light manufacturing), and M-2 (heavy manufacturing) zoning districts, each banner shall not exceed 64 square feet in size. ii. Temporary window signs. 1. Temporary window signs are allowed without a permit. 2. Temporary window signs shall be neatly painted or attached to the surface of a window, but shall cover no more than 30 percent of the total area of the window. iii. Temporary signs and displays over 12 square feet. 1. One temporary sign or display over 12 square feet is permitted for up to 30 days per year, per business. The time period may be extended to 60 days during the first year of operation of a new business and 90 days for a temporary seasonal business. The city shall consider a sign displayed for part of a day as having been up for an entire day. 2. All signs require a sign permit unless otherwise noted. The permit fee shall not be charged for temporary signs and displays erected by civic organizations, religious organizations, or other nonprofit organizations or groups. 3. Maximum size. a. In the LBC (limited business commercial), CO (commercial office), SC (shopping center), and NC (neighborhood commercial) zoning districts each sign or display shall not exceed 32 square feet in size. b. In the BC (business commercial), BC-M (business commercial modified), M-1 (light manufacturing), and M-2 (heavy manufacturing) zoning districts, each sign or display shall not exceed 64 square feet in size. c. No sign or display shall exceed eight feet in height. iv. Ground banner signs. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 35 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 1. One ground banner sign shall be allowed per every 150 feet of street frontage. 2. The sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in size. 3. All ground banner signs shall be removed after 60 days. e. Temporary Signs in Mixed-Use Districts. i. In addition to the temporary signs allowed for all zoning districts, the following temporary signs shall be allowed in the Mixed-Use (MU) and North End (NE) zoning districts: 1. Temporary banners. a. For single tenant buildings, temporary banners may be displayed without a sign permit for a period not to exceed 60 days total per year. No more than one banner may be displayed per property at any one time. b. For multiple-tenant buildings, each separate tenant may display temporary banners without a sign permit for a period not to exceed 60 days total per year. No more than one banner may be displayed per separate tenant at any one time. c. Each banner shall be attached to a building or other permanent structure. d. No banner shall exceed 32 square feet in area. 2. Temporary window signs. a. Temporary window signs are allowed without a permit in any building or portion of a building occupied by a nonresidential use. b. Temporary window signs shall be neatly painted or attached to the surface of a window, but shall cover no more than 30 percent of the total area of the window. 3. Temporary signs and displays over 12 square feet. a. One temporary sign or display over 12 square feet is permitted by sign permit for up to 30 days per year. The time period may be extended to 60 days during the first year of operation of a new business and 90 days for a temporary seasonal business. The city shall consider a sign displayed for part of a day as having been up for an entire day. b. All signs require a sign permit unless otherwise noted. The permit fee shall not be charged for temporary signs and displays erected by civic organizations, religious organizations, or other nonprofit organizations. c. In no case shall the area of the sign exceed 32 square feet in area or eight feet in height. 4. Ground banner signs. a. One ground banner sign shall be allowed per every 150 feet of street frontage. b. The sign shall not exceed 32 square feet in size. c. All ground banner signs shall be removed after 60 days. f. Exemptions. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 36 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 i. Temporary window and banner signs which exceed the size, number, or time display limits as specified in this Section may apply for an exemption as described below: 1. Short-term exemption (up to three months). a. Applicant shall submit a temporary sign permit application and fee to the Administrator. b. The Administrator shall approve the short-term exemption if the applicant shows that there are unusual circumstances with the request. c. The Administrator may attach conditions to the approval to assure that the sign will be compatible with surrounding properties. 2. Long-term exemption (longer than three months). a. Applicant shall submit a comprehensive sign plan as specified in Section XX and fee to the city. b. The community design review board shall approve the long-term exemption if the applicant shows that there are unusual circumstances with the request. c. The community design review board may attach conditions to the approval to assure that the sign will be compatible with surrounding properties. (Ord. No. 896, § 11, 1-25-2010; Ord. No. 906, 7-12-2010; Ord. No. 908, § 4, 8-9-2010) Secs. 44-738. Permanent signs. (1) Unless specifically identified below, all permanent signs require a sign permit and shall count towards the building or property maximum signage allowed: a. Permanent Signs on Properties Designated Park in the Maplewood Comprehensive Plan. i. Wall signs. One wall sign up to 24 square feet per street frontage shall be allowed for each park building. The sign may be affixed to the wall of the building or an overhanging canopy or awning. ii. Monument signs. One monument sign up to 32 square feet per street frontage shall be allowed to identify each park. Said sign shall be a maximum of six feet in height. The sign shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with the park structures and buildings with the base of the sign consisting of colors and materials compatible to the structures or buildings. b. Permanent Signs in Residential Districts. i. Wall sign. One wall sign up to 24 square feet per street frontage shall be allowed for residential subdivisions, townhomes, live-work buildings, apartments, and for all legal nonresidential uses excluding home occupation businesses. The sign may be affixed to the wall of the main building or an overhanging canopy or awning. ii. Monument sign. One monument sign up to 32 square feet per street frontage shall be allowed by sign permit for residential subdivisions and multiple-unit developments and for all legal nonresidential uses excluding G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 37 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 home occupation businesses. Said sign shall be a maximum of six feet in height. The sign shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with the building or project with the base of the sign consisting of colors and materials compatible to the building or project. iii. Changeable copy message boards. Changeable copy message boards are permitted as part of a permanent freestanding monument sign or wall sign for all legal nonresidential uses excluding home occupation businesses. The message board shall not comprise more than 70 percent of the total square footage of said sign. iv. On-site dynamic display signs for permitted institutional or public uses. (Refer to section 44-743 - Dynamic Display Signs). c. Permanent Signs in Non-Residential Districts. i. LBC (limited business commercial), CO (commercial office), SC (shopping center), and NC (neighborhood commercial) zoning districts: 1. Wall signs. a. For each occupant of a building, one wall sign is allowed for each street upon which the property has frontage. The total number of wall signs may be increased by one for each clearly differentiated department of a business or enterprise. b. The total area of any one wall sign shall not cover more than 20 percent of the wall surface to which the sign is attached or 32 square feet, whichever is greater. As an alternative, a wall sign may be placed on an overhanging awning or canopy as long as the wall sign does not exceed 50 percent of the face of the awning or canopy, or 32 square feet, whichever is less. c. For multiple tenant buildings, the wall surface for each tenant or user shall include only the surface area of the exterior façade of the site occupied by such tenant or user. 2. Freestanding signs. a. One freestanding sign up to 64 square feet in area and ten feet in height is permitted for each street upon which the property has frontage. b. For buildings or developments with multiple street frontages, each additional freestanding sign must be located on a different street. Each freestanding sign must be separated by more than 100 feet measured in a straight line between the signs. c. The sign shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with the building or project with the base of the sign consisting of colors and materials compatible to the building or project. d. The area around the base of the sign shall also be landscaped including the bottom of a pylon sign. 3. Changeable copy message boards. Changeable copy message boards are permitted as part of a permanent freestanding sign or wall sign but shall comprise no more than 70 percent of the total square footage of said sign. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 38 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 4. On-site dynamic display signs for permitted institutional or public uses. (Refer to section 44-743 - dynamic display signs). ii. BC (business commercial), BC-M (business commercial modified), M-1 (light manufacturing), and M-2 (heavy manufacturing) zoning districts: 1. Signage requirements for specific uses, including gas station canopies, auto dealerships, and drive-throughs are listed in Section XX use-specific standards. 2. Wall signs. a. For each occupant of a building, one wall sign is allowed for each street upon which the property has frontage. The total number of wall signs may be increased by one for each clearly differentiated department of a business or enterprise. b. The total size of all wall signage for single-tenant buildings is determined by the gross square footage of the principal structure on the property. The total coverage area of each wall sign, including each differentiated business, shall be based on the wall surface to which the sign is attached. The following table indicates maximum signage permitted for single-tenant buildings: Principal Structure Gross Square Feet of Floor Area Maximum Size and Coverage Area of Each Sign Less than 10,000 sq. ft 80 sq. ft. or 20% of wall face, whichever is less 10,000 to 20,000 sq. ft. 100 sq. ft. or 20% of wall face, whichever is less 20,000 to 100,000 sq. ft. 150 sq. ft. or 15% of wall face, whichever is less Greater than 100,000 sq. ft 200 sq. ft. or 10% of wall face, whichever is less c. The total coverage area of each wall sign for multiple-tenant buildings is ten percent of the surface area of the exterior façade of the site occupied by such tenant, or 32 square feet, whichever is more. d. A wall sign may be attached to an overhanging awning or canopy, instead of the façade of the building, as long as the wall sign does not exceed 50 percent of the face of the awning or canopy, or the maximum size specified above, whichever is less. 3. Freestanding signs. a. One freestanding sign is permitted for each street upon which the property has frontage. For properties with multiple street frontages, each additional freestanding sign must be located on a different street and each sign must be separated by more than 100 feet measured in a straight line between signs, excluding auto dealerships. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 39 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 b. The total size and maximum height of each freestanding sign is determined by the street classification (as designated in the Maplewood Comprehensive Plan) of the closest street to which each freestanding sign is located. In the case of signs located at an intersection, the higher ranking street classification should be used to determine the maximum height and size allowable for a freestanding sign. Businesses that are located on a frontage road designed to provide safe access to minor arterials and principal arterials shall be permitted to erect a freestanding sign up to the determined maximum height and size allowable for a freestanding sign on said minor arterial or principal arterial road to which it is adjacent. c. The following table lists the maximum size and heights permitted for freestanding signs: Classification of Street Abutting Property Maximum Sign Size (sq. ft.) Maximum Height of Pylon Sign (feet) Maximum Height of Monument Sign (feet) Principal Arterial 180 25 12 Minor Arterial 140 20 12 Collector Street 100 15 10 Local Street 80 12 10 d. The freestanding sign shall be designed to be architecturally compatible with the building or project, with the base of the sign, including pylon sign poles, consisting of materials and colors compatible to the building or project. 4. Changeable copy message boards. Changeable copy message boards are permitted as part of a permanent freestanding sign or wall sign but are limited to comprising no more than 70 percent of the total square footage of said sign. 5. On-site and off-site dynamic display signs. (Refer to section 44-743 - dynamic display signs). 6. Billboards. a. Off-site billboards shall only be permitted with a conditional use permit and may only be located adjacent to a principal arterial street in the SC (shopping center), BC (business commercial), M- 1 (light manufacturing), and M-2 (heavy manufacturing) districts. b. Spacing. No billboard shall be located within 2,300 feet of another billboard on the same side of the street, within 100 feet to a commercial, industrial, institutional building, or an on-site sign, within 250 feet of a residential district, or within 800 feet of a residence. Billboards shall maintain a setback of 50 feet from any property line, 500 feet to a local park, and 300 feet from the nearest intersecting street corner of two public roads. c. Size. The maximum area of the sign face of a billboard shall not exceed 450 square feet, including border and trim, but excluding base, apron supports, and other structural members. The G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 40 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 maximum size limitation shall apply to each side of a sign structure. d. The maximum height for billboards shall be 35 feet. e. A billboard may only display one message at a time on any sign face. f. Signs may be placed back-to-back or in a V-type arrangement if there are no more than two sign faces, provided that the open end separation shall not exceed 15 feet. d. Permanent Signs in Mixed-Use and North End Districts. i. The following signs shall be allowed in the Mixed-Use (MU) and North End (NE) zoning districts: 1. Signage requirements for minor motor vehicle stations are listed in Section XX use-specific standards. 2. Building signs. a. Building signage in the MU and NE districts may include wall, projecting, window, or awning/canopy signage. b. Total allowable area of all building signage for each establishment is one and one-half square feet of signage per lineal foot of building or frontage on a road, public open space or private parking area, or 32 square feet, whichever is greater. c. Each wall shall be calculated individually and sign area may not be transferred to another side of the building. d. Wall signs shall not cover windows or architectural trim and detail. e. No part of a building sign shall be placed higher than the sills of the second-story window of a multi-story building. f. Additional standards for projecting signs. i. Projecting signs may not extend more than four feet over a public right-of-way, private road, or sidewalk/trail, and must not project out further than the sign's height. ii. Projecting signs shall have a minimum clearance of eight feet above ground level, unless projecting over a vehicular right-of- way, in which case minimum clearance shall be 14 feet. Projecting signs shall be no larger than 20 square feet per sign face. g. Window signs. A permanent window sign shall be applied directly to the window or hung inside the window but cannot be painted directly onto the window. A window sign shall not cover more than 1/3 of the window or door in which the sign is placed. h. Awning/canopy signs. Signs on street-level awnings/canopies are permitted if the sign on each awning/canopy is either less than seven square feet in size or eight inches in height, is located on the face of the awning/canopy (valance or skirt), and is parallel to the building façade. Where there are multiple awnings on a building, all awning signs shall have a consistent size and location on the awnings. Commented [RT1]: For PC discussion G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 41 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 3. Monument signs. One monument sign for each establishment is allowed if the building is set back at least 20 feet from the front property line. Monument signs must meet the following requirements: a. Limited to six feet in height and 40 square feet. b. Maintain a five-foot setback from any side or rear property line, but can be constructed up to the front property line. c. Must consist of a base constructed of materials and design features similar to those of the front façade of the building or development. d. Must be landscaped with flowers or shrubbery or integrated into a plaza area. 4. Lighting. ATo keep signage lighting focused on the sign and not overpower architectural features of the building façade any signage lighting in the MU or NE districts shall only be provided by using an external light source. The external light source shall be directed onto the sign face or use halo effect/reverse illumination, which is an external light source behind individual letters that is reversed to shine on the wall. a. Exposed neon lighting and LED lighting that has the appearance of exposed neon lighting is allowed. b. Internally illuminated signs are prohibited. (Ord. No. 896, § 12, 1-25-2010; Ord. No. 908, § 5, 8-9-2010; Ord. No. 1023, § III, 10-11-2021; Ord. No. 1026, § 2, 11-22-2021) Secs. 44-739. Dynamic display signs. (1) Dynamic displays are allowed as stated in this article with significant controls to minimize their proliferation and their potential threats to public health, safety, and welfare. a. General Standards. All dynamic display signs shall meet the following standards: i. The images and messages displayed shall be static. Unless otherwise specified, each display shall be maintained for a minimum of two minutes15 seconds. ii. The transition from one display to another shall be instantaneous without any special effects. Motion, animation and video images are prohibited on dynamic LED sign displays. No portion of the images may flash, scroll, twirl, change color, or in any manner imitate movement. iii. The images and messages displayed shall be complete in themselves, without continuation in content to the next image or message or to any other sign. iv. Only one, contiguous dynamic display area is allowed on a sign face. v. Audio speakers or any audio component is prohibited. The sign shall not emit any sound. vi. Every line of copy and graphics in a dynamic display shall be at least seven inches in height on a road with a speed limit of 25 to 34 miles per hour, nine inches on a road with a speed limit of 35 to 44 miles per hour, Commented [RT2]: For PC discussion G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 42 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 12 inches on a road with a speed limit of 45 to 54 miles per hour, and 15 inches on a road with a speed limit of 55 miles per hour or more. vii. Dynamic display signs must be designed and equipped to freeze the device in one position if a malfunction occurs. The displays must also be equipped with a means to immediately discontinue the display if it malfunctions, and the sign owner must stop the dynamic display within one hour of being notified by the city that it is not meeting the standards of this article. viii. Brightness standards. 1. The following brightness standards are required for all dynamic display signs: a. No sign shall be brighter than is necessary for clear and adequate visibility. b. No sign shall be of such intensity or brilliance as to impair the vision of a motor vehicle driver with average eyesight or to otherwise interfere with the driver's operation of a motor vehicle. c. No sign may be of such intensity or brilliance that it interferes with the effectiveness of an official traffic sign, device or signal. 2. The person owning or controlling the sign must adjust the sign to meet the brightness standards in accordance with the city's instructions. The adjustment must be made within one hour upon notice of noncompliance from the city. 3. All dynamic display signs installed after August of 2008 must be equipped with a mechanism that automatically adjusts the brightness in response to ambient conditions. These signs must also be equipped with a means to immediately turn off the display or lighting if the sign malfunctions, and the sign owner or operator must turn off the sign or lighting within one hour after being notified by the city that it is not meeting the standards of this section. 4. Dynamic displays must have an automatic dimmer control to produce a distinct illumination change from a higher illumination level to a lower level for the time period between a ½-hour before sunset and a ½-hour after sunrise. 5. In addition to the brightness standards required above, dynamic display signs shall meet the city's outdoor lighting requirements (subsection 44-20(1)). ix. Reduction of sign surfaces for off-site dynamic display signs. 1. A person or sign operator may obtain a permit for a dynamic display sign on one surface of an existing off-site sign if the following requirements are met: a. The applicant agrees in writing to reduce its off-site sign surfaces by one by permanently removing, within 15 days after issuance of the permit, one surface of an off-site sign in the city that is owned or leased by the applicant, which sign surface must satisfy the criteria of part b. of this subsection. This removal must include the G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 43 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 complete removal of the structure and foundation supporting each removed sign surface. The applicant must agree that the city may remove the sign surface if the applicant does not do so, and the application must identify the sign surface to be removed and be accompanied by a cash deposit or letter of credit acceptable to the city attorney sufficient to pay the city's costs for that removal. The applicant must also agree that it is removing the sign surface voluntarily and that it has no right to compensation for the removed sign surface under any law. Replacement of an existing sign surface of an off-site sign with a dynamic display sign does not constitute a removal of a sign surface. b. If the removed sign surface is one that a state permit is required by state law, the applicant must surrender its permit to the state upon removal of the sign surface. The sign that is the subject of the dynamic display sign permit cannot begin to operate until the sign owner or operator provides proof to the city that the state permit has been surrendered. 2. If the applicant meets the permit requirements noted above, the city shall issue a dynamic display sign permit for the designated off-site sign. This permit will allow a dynamic display to occupy 100 percent of the potential copy and graphic area and to change no more frequently than once every 15 seconds. The designated sign must meet all other requirements of this article. x. Licensing. No person shall operate any dynamic display sign in the city without first obtaining a yearly license as defined in the city licensing ordinance (article II). xi. Public safety. If city staff determines that a dynamic display sign is not being operated pursuant to this section due to its location or display capabilities, city staff may require that the sign be moved, removed, or modified after notice to the property owner. b. Zoning District Standards. In addition to the general standards above, dynamic display signs shall adhere to the following district-specific requirements: i. On-site dynamic display signs in conjunction with a permitted institutional or public use in the residential, LBC, CO, SC, and NC zoning districts are permitted subject to the following conditions: 1. Dynamic display signs require approval of a comprehensive sign plan. 2. All properties within 350 feet of a proposed dynamic display sign shall be notified of the application for a comprehensive sign plan. 3. Dynamic display signs are only permitted on monument signs. The area around the base of the sign shall be landscaped. 4. One dynamic display sign as part of a monument sign is permitted for each property. The entire monument sign shall not exceed eight feet in height and 50 square feet in size. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 44 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 5. The digital display portion of the sign shall not comprise more than 50 percent of the sign area. The remainder of the sign shall not have the capability to have a dynamic display. 6. All monument signs with a digital display shall maintain at least a ten- foot setback from any lot line and shall not be placed in a public right- of-way. This setback shall be increased to 20 feet if the adjacent property is used or shown on the city's land use plan for residential use. 7. The dynamic display shall not be illuminated between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. 8. Dynamic displays must have an automatic dimmer control to produce a distinct illumination change from a higher illumination level to a lower level for the time period between a ½-hour before sunset and a ½-hour after sunrise. ii. On-site dynamic display signs located in the Mixed use (MU) or Nnorth Eend (NE) zoning districts are allowed subject to the following conditions: 1. Dynamic display signs require approval of a comprehensive sign plan. 2. Dynamic display signs are only permitted on monument signs. The area around the base of the sign shall be landscaped. 3. Are allowed as part of a permanent freestanding sign, provided that the sign comprises no more than 50 percent of the total square footage of said sign face. The digital display portion of the sign shall not comprise more than 50 percent of the sign area. The remainder of the sign shall not have the capability to have a dynamic display. 4. All monument signs with a digital display shall maintain at least a ten- foot setback from any lot line and shall not be placed in a public right- of-way. This setback shall be increased to 20 feet if the adjacent property is used or shown on the city's land use plan for residential use. 5. One dynamic display sign as part of a monument sign is permitted for each property. The entire monument sign shall not exceed eight feet in height and 50 square feet in size. 6. The dynamic display shall not be illuminated between 10:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m. ii.iii. On-site dynamic display signs located in the business commercial (BC) or heavy or light industrial (M-2 and M-1) zoning districts: 1. Are allowed as part of a permanent freestanding sign, provided that the sign comprises no more than 50 percent of the total square footage of said sign face. 2. Must be located at least 200 feet from any property where there are structures used for residential purposes or from any park or open space land use district. 3. Must be located at least 100 feet from any side property line. 4. Displays shall be maintained for a minimum of 15 seconds. (Ord. No. 896, § 13, 1-25-2010; Ord. No. 1023, § IV, 10-11-2021) G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 45 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 Secs. 44-740. Murals. (1) Murals shall require approval of a comprehensive mural plan following the requirements of Sec. 44-742 and shall meet the following standards: a. Murals shall be maintained in good repair, free from peeling paint or damage to age, weather, or vandalism. Removal of a mural must be accomplished by physical removal from a wall and/or by covering the mural completely with paint. The mural must be rendered completely invisible while maintaining the structural and architectural integrity of the structure. b. Murals shall be composed of permanent materials and applied only to permanent surfaces. Murals may not be applied to any fabric or temporary surface. c. Murals shall be allowed only on building facades that face a side or rear property line. d. Murals with the following features shall not be allowed: i. Moving parts, including solar-, wind-, or water-driven devices. ii. Projections from the wall surface iii. Words (in any language), symbols, or representations that are obscene, offensive, of a political nature, or are derogatory. iv. Representations that imitate or appear to imitate any official traffic sign or device to direct the movement of traffic. v. Colors that are predominantly fluorescent, metallic, or reflective. Secs. 44-741. Sign permits. (1) If a sign requires a permit, the property owner shall secure the sign permit prior to the construction or major alteration of such a sign. No sign permit shall be issued for an existing or proposed sign unless such sign is in compliance with the requirements of this article. a. Application. The application to erect or alter any sign shall be in writing, using a current sign permit application, and signed by the owner or occupant of the building. The application shall specify the location, height, dimensions of the sign and, where applicable, the dimensions of the wall surface of the building to which it is to be attached and total square footage of the building. Applications shall be accompanied by the permit fee, a sketch of the sign, and any other facts the city requires for full information of the nature and safety of the proposal. An electrical permit is also required for all signs containing electrical wiring. b. Fees. The city council shall set all sign permit fees annually. c. Time limits. i. All permits for the erection or alteration of signs shall be issued for the useful life of the sign. Minor alterations to an existing sign, including routine maintenance, painting, or refacing the copy, do not require a new sign permit. ii. A sign permit shall become null and void if the work for which the permit was issued has not been completed within one year of the issuance or renewal. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 46 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 d. Appeals. When a sign permit under this article is denied, the administrator shall give notice to the applicant within 30 days of denial, together with reasons for denial. Appeals from the decisions of the administrator under the provisions of this article shall be made to the city council. Denial shall be based on noncompliance with this article. (Ord. No. 896, § 9, 1-25-2010) Secs. 44-742. Comprehensive sign or mural plan. (1) A comprehensive sign or mural plan shall be provided for the following: a. Any non-residential property with five or more tenants on the site or any multiple- story buildings with two or more tenants in the building. b. All permitted institutional or public uses. c. All developments approved as a planned unit development. d. Large campuses consisting of buildings and land of ten or more acres. e. Shared signs that serve both the parcel on which they are placed and an adjacent parcel. f. Murals. g. Dynamic display wall signs (also refer to section 44-743 - dynamic display signs). h. Long-term exemptions to temporary window and banner signs (also refer to section 44-738 - signs exempt from regulations in this section). i. Temporary signs on park designated land in the Maplewood Comprehensive Plan (also refer to section 44-742). (2) A comprehensive sign or mural plan request shall include the location, size, height, color, lighting, and orientation of all signs and/or murals. Requests for a comprehensive mural plan shall also include a design sketch and photos of the proposed site. Exceptions to the regulations of this article may be permitted as follows: a. For sign areas, densities, and dynamic display changeover rates for the plan as a whole if the signs are in conformity with the intent of this article b. If the exception results in an improved relationship between the various parts of the plan, c. If it encourages and promotes the removal of nonconforming signs through the use of shared signs, d. If for long-term exemptions to temporary window and banner signs, the comprehensive sign plan shows that there are unusual circumstances with the request. (3) Comprehensive sign or mural plans shall be reviewed by the community design review board. The applicant, staff, and city council may appeal the community design review board's decision. An appeal shall be presented to the administrator within 15 days of the community design review board's decision to be considered by the city council. (Ord. No. 896, § 2, 1-25-2010; Ord. No. 908, § 2, 8-9-2010; Ord. No. 1023, § I, 10-11-2021) Secs. 44-743. Nonconforming signs. (1) Nonconforming temporary signs. Nonconforming temporary signs existing on the effective date of this article shall be brought into compliance or removed within 60 days from the effective date of this article. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 47 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 (2)(1) Nonconforming permanent signs. Nonconforming permanent signs lawfully existing on the effective date of this article shall be allowed to continue in use, but shall not be rebuilt, relocated or altered, other than minor alterations including routine maintenance, painting, or refacing the sign copy, without being brought into compliance with this article. After a nonconforming sign has been removed, it shall not be replaced by another nonconforming sign. (Ord. No. 896, § 5, 1-25-2010) Secs. 44-744. Enforcement procedures. (1) Temporary signs. The city shall send a notice to the owner of any illegal temporary sign or temporary sign in violation of this article and allow seven days for the owner to correct all ordinance violations or remove the sign. If the sign is not a safety hazard, the city shall allow 30 days for the owner to correct the violation. If the sign is a safety hazard the city shall take immediate action to end the hazard. (2) Permanent signs. The city shall send a notice to the owner of any permanent sign in violation of the provisions of this article. The notice shall require that the owner to correct all ordinance violations. If the sign is not a safety hazard, the city shall allow 30 days for the owner to correct the violation. If the sign is a safety hazard the city shall take immediate action to end the hazard. (3) Abandoned signs. The city shall send notice to the owner of the property on which exists any abandoned sign in violation of the provisions of this article. The notice shall require that the owner correct all ordinance violations. If the sign is not a safety hazard, the city shall allow 30 days for the owner to correct the violation. If the sign is a safety hazard the city shall take immediate action to end the hazard. (4) Removal of signs. If the sign owner does not obey the city's orders, the city may remove or alter the sign at the owner's expense under the procedures of sections 18-36 through 18-38 (notice to abate). The city may remove illegal signs on a public right-of-way without notice. If the city removes a sign the city may sell or dispose of it if the owner does not reclaim the sign and pay any removal costs within 30 days of the sign's removal. (5) Murals. The city shall send a notice to the owner of any mural that is in violation with the provisions of this article. The article shall require the owner to correct all ordinance violations. The city shall allow 60 days for the owner to correct the violation. If the mural is failed to be removed and/or maintained, the city may cause the removal of the mural. The owner shall pay all expenses under the procedures of sections 18-36 through 18-38 incurred by the city for the removal. (Ord. No. 896, § 6, 1-25-2010; Ord. No. 1000, § 2, 3-25-2019) Secs. 44-745—44-1050. Reserved. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 48 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 ILLUSTRATIONS OF SIGN TYPES G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 49 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 – ZONING ARTICLE III. SIGN REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023 G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 50 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 - ZONING ARTICLE II. DISTRICT REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023  ARTICLE II. DISTRICT REGULATIONS  DIVISION 14.  – MU MIXED‐USE DISTRICT  Sec. 44-679. Purpose and intent.  The purpose of the mixed‐use zoning district is to provide areas in the City of Maplewood with a mixture of  land uses, made mutually compatible through land use controls and high‐quality design standards. With this  district, the City of Maplewood intends to promote the redevelopment or development of an area into a mixed‐ use urban centerneighborhood with compact, pedestrian‐oriented commercial and residential land uses that are  within an easy walk of a major transit stop. The intent of the mixed‐use zoning district is to enhance viability within  an area and foster more employment and residential opportunities. The placement and treatment of buildings,  parking, signage, landscaping and pedestrian spaces are essential elements in creating the pedestrian‐friendly and  livable environment envisioned by the city in a mixed‐use area. To ensure these elements are achieved, basis  design standards are included in the district.   (Ord. No. 847, § III, 2‐23‐2004)  Sec. 44-680. Planned Unit Development Planned Unit Developments (PUDs), as provided in section 44‐331 through 44‐333 are not permitted in the M‐U  district.   Sec. 44-681. Dimensional standards. (1) Within the mixed‐use zoning district, all setbacks shall be measured from the outlying property line of a  development and either a public right‐of‐way or from the edge of a private road, whichever applies. The  term "road" as used to define setbacks within the mixed‐use zoning district applies to public right‐of‐ways  and private roads.   (2) Table X establishes the lot and site standards for uses in the mixed‐use zoning district.  Use  Lot Size Per   Unit   (square  feet)  Height   (feet)  Structure Setbacks   (feet)  Front Side Rear  Principal Use  Single‐unit dwelling  7,260 351 20 to 25 52 152  Double dwelling  (duplex)/townhouse dwelling  n/a 351 20 to 25 52 152  Multiple dwelling Apartment  dwelling  n/a 351 0 to 20 03 03  Mixed‐use/residential and  commercial Residential and  commercial mixed use building  n/a n/a 0 to 10 03 03  CommercialNon‐residential,  /including structured parking   n/a n/a 0 to 10 03 03  Accessory Use  Residential garageAccessory  building accessed from alley   n/a Per section   44‐114  n/a 5 0 to 6  G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 51 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 - ZONING ARTICLE II. DISTRICT REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023      Residential garageAccessory  building not accessed from alley   n/a Per section   44‐114  20 to 25 5 5    1   No single‐unit dwelling, double dwelling (duplex), townhouse dwelling or multi‐dwelling  apartment dwelling building shall exceed a height of 35 feet, or three stories, unless the city  council approves a conditional use permit.   2   When a mixed‐use zoned single‐unit dwelling,  or double‐dwelling (duplex), or /townhouse  dwelling adjoins a single or double‐dwellingthe F, R‐1, R‐1(R), R‐1(S) or R‐2 residential zoning  district, the greater of the side and rear yard setbacks of the adjacent single or double‐ dwelling residential zoning district shall apply, or a side yard setback of ten feet and a rear  yard setback of 20 feet shall apply , whichever is greater.   3   The zero foot setback specified above is allowed except as otherwise specified in the building  code. Side and rear yard setbacks of at least ten feet shall be required when a mixed‐use  zoned commercial, mixed‐use (residential and commercial)residential and commercial mixed  use building or multi‐familyapartment dwelling use adjoins a mixed‐use zoned single unit  dwelling,  or double‐dwelling (duplex), or /townhouse dwelling residential use. Side and rear  yard setbacks shall be as specified in subsection 44‐20(c)(6)b. (additional design standards)  when a mixed‐use zoned commercial, mixed‐use (residential and commercial)residential and  commercial mixed use building, or apartment dwelling multi‐family use adjoins a F, R‐1, R‐ 1(R), R‐1(S) or R‐2single or double‐dwelling residential zoning district.   (3) The city council may increase maximum setbacks with approval of a conditional use permit. The  conditional use permit may only be approved if the applicant has demonstrated on its site plan the intent  of the mixed use zoning district is being met.   (Ord. No. 847, § III, 2‐23‐2004; Ord. No. 965, § 1, 5‐23‐2016)  Sec. 44-682. Maximum density. The density of the mixed‐use zoning district shall not exceed the maximum density permitted by the land use  classification and people per unit designated in the city's adopted comprehensive plan. Additional Ddensity  bonuses are may be allowed per section 44‐300 164 Density (density credits). In addition, the net acreage for  calculating density may be increased by 300 square feet for each affordable dwelling unit, as defined by the  metropolitan council guidelines.   (Ord. No. 847, § III, 2‐23‐2004)  Sec. 44-683. Off-street parking. (1) Section 44‐17 (off‐street parking) of the City Code applies in the mixed‐use zoning district unless specified  differently below:   (a) Placement of surface parking within the mixed‐use zoning district must meet the following:   1. Surface parking must be located to the rear of a principal building, or an interior side yard if  parking in the rear is impractical.   2. Surface parking must maintain a five‐foot side yard setback and a five‐foot rear yard setback,  unless the surface parking adjoins a single or double‐dwelling residential zoning districtthe F, R‐1,  R‐1(R), R‐1(S) or R‐2 districts, in which case the required setback is as specified 20 feet for both  the side yard and rear yard. in subsection 44‐19(a) (landscaping and screening).   G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 52 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 - ZONING ARTICLE II. DISTRICT REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023      3. Surface parking must maintain a ten‐foot setback to a road when constructed on the side or rear  of a building on a corner lot.  d4. The city council may approve modifications to the surface parking placement standard with a  conditional use permit if a building has special needs and site constraints or an increased building  setback is also approved. In these cases, there should be good pedestrian connections between  the sidewalk and building entrance, and the area in front of the parking lot should be well  landscaped.     (b) Amount of parking:   a1. The minimum amount of required parking spaces shall be as specified in section 44‐17 (off‐street  parking).   b2. The maximum amount of surface parking spaces shall not exceed the specified minimum by more  than ten percent, or two spaces, whichever is greater. If additional parking is desired, it must be  placed underground, within an enclosed building, or in a tuck‐under garage.   c3. On‐street parking located in front of a commercial or mixed‐use building may count toward the  required number of parking spaces.   d4. For retail, medical, service and office uses, if a transit shelter is provided on site or immediately in  front of the building, then the minimum required number of parking spaces may be reduced by  five percent but not to exceed five parking spaces total.   e5. Commercial Shared parking district: For retail, medical, service and office uses, required parking  may be reduced by the establishment of a commercial parking district for the purpose of sharing  parking with varying peak parking hours or availability of off‐street public parking. The  establishment of a commercial parking district to allow a reduction in parking required shall be  sSubject to review and approval by the community design review board during the  G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 53 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 - ZONING ARTICLE II. DISTRICT REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023      development's initial site plan review or subsequent site plan changes, two or more uses may  provide required off‐street parking spaces in a common parking facility subject to the following  conditions:   a. The total number of parking spaces provided may be less than the sum of the spaces  required for each use individually, provided that such uses’ peak hours of operation are not  during the same hours.   b. The proposed shared parking spaces must be within 500 feet of the uses it will serve.   a.c. The shared parking must be established through a recorded legal instrument, approved by  the City Attorney and filed with the Community Development Department.  f6. In addition to the above‐referenced allowances for parking reduction, the city council may  authorize other reduced off‐street parking requests through a special agreementwaiver. The  reduction must be based on proven parking data for a specific development.   (c) Parking space size:   a. 90‐degree parking: 9 feet × 18 feet   b. 45‐degree parking: 8.5 feet × 18 feet   c. Parallel parking: 8 feet × 21 feet   (Ord. No. 847, § III, 2‐23‐2004; Ord. No. 965, § 1, 5‐23‐2016)  Sec. 44-684. Design standards. (1) Application.   a. Section 44‐20 (additional design standards) of the City Code applies to the mixed‐use zoning  district unless specified differently below.  b. Mixed‐use building and development remodeling/additions/alterations. Remodeling, additions  or other alterations to mixed‐use buildings and development (buildings and developments  previously approved and built with mixed‐use design standards) shall be done in a manner that  is compatible with the original building or development. Original materials shall be retained and  preserved to the extent possible.   c. Nonconforming buildings and developments.   i. Additions to nonconforming buildings or developments (buildings or developments  built before mixed‐use design standards) must be constructed with materials required  by this division if the addition exceeds 25 percent of the floor area.   ii. Exterior remodeling or alterations to a nonconforming building or development must  be constructed with materials required by this division.   iii. The director of community development (if administrative review is required) or the  community design review board (if design review is required) may authorize an  exception to allow the use of other materials if the addition, remodeling or alteration  is deemed to be minor in nature and not visible from a public right‐of‐way.   (2) Porches and entries for residential dwellings and residential and commercial mixed‐use buildings.   a. Porches, steps, pent roofs, roof overhangs and hooded front doors or similar architectural  elements shall be used to define all primary residential entrances.   G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 54 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 - ZONING ARTICLE II. DISTRICT REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023      b. Decks shall be prohibited on all primary residential entrances.   c. Front porches must have a minimum depth of six feet clear. Porches may extend six feet into  the required setback in the mixed‐use zoning district.   (3) Residential garages for  (single‐unit dwelling, double‐dwelling (duplex), and townhouse dwellings.  a. Attached Residential garages. Single or double‐dwelling/townhouse attached garages must not  be located in front of the primary façade and must have architectural elements to minimize the  impact of the garage door or be recessed from the primary front façade (not including porches,  bay windows or other minor projections) by a minimum of eight feet.   b. Single or double‐dwelling/townhouse garages, either aAttached or detached garages, which are  placed in the rear yard must be accessed by either an alley or a side‐yard driveway.   (4) Non‐residential or mixed‐use buildings.  a. Pedestrian access. Each ground floor space with road frontage shall have its primary entrance  on the front façade. Additional entrances may be provided off of a parking area or an access  corridor.   b. Exterior building materials.   i. Exterior‐building materials shall be classified primary, secondary or accent material.   1. Primary materials shall cover at least 60 percent of all façades of a building.   2. Secondary materials may cover no more than 30 percent of all façades of a  building.   3. Accent materials may include door and window frames, lintels, cornices and  other minor elements, and may cover no more than ten percent of all façades  of a building.   i.ii. Allowable materials are as follows:   1. Primary exterior building materials may be brick, stone or glass. Bronze‐tinted  or mirror glass are prohibited as exterior materials.   2. Secondary exterior building materials may be decorative block or stucco.   3. Synthetic stucco may be permitted as a secondary material on upper floors  only.   4. Accent materials may be wood or metal if appropriately integrated into the  overall building design and not situated in areas that will be subject to  physical or environmental damage.   iii. All primary and secondary materials shall be integrally colored with no painted  materials.   ii.iv. Material change. The front façade building material changes shall not occur at external  corners (toward a public right‐of‐way or public open space), but may occur at reverse  or interior corners or as a return at least six feet from external corners.   c. Bbuilding façade and articulation.   iii.i. First floor height. The first floor of commercial or mixed‐use (residential and  commercial) buildings shall be designed with a minimum ceiling height of 12 feet.   G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 55 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 - ZONING ARTICLE II. DISTRICT REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023      iv.ii. One‐story buildings. One‐story buildings taller than 18 feet in height shall be  architecturally detailed to simulate a two‐story appearance.   v.iii. Articulation. Any exterior building wall, except for single and double‐ dwelling/townhouse residential buildings, adjacent to or visible from a public right‐of‐ way or public open space may not exceed 40 feet in width. New buildings of more than  40 feet in width are allowed if the building wall is divided into smaller increments,  between 20 and 40 feet in width, through articulation of the façade. Articulation of the  façade This can be achieved through combinations of the following techniques and  others that may meet the objective:   1. Façade modulation ‐ stepping back or extending forward a portion of the  façade.   2. Vertical divisions ‐ using different textures or materials (although materials  should be drawn from a common palette).   3. Division into storefronts, with separate display windows and entrances.   4. Variation in rooflines by alternating dormers, stepped roofs, gables, or other  roof elements to reinforce the modulation or articulation interval.   5. Arcades, awnings, window bays, arched windows and balconies.   vi.iv. Windows. Buildings containing office and retail uses shall maintain 40 percent  minimum window coverage on the first floor that faces a road or public open space.  These windows shall extend to a minimum of two feet to the front façade elevation.   b.d. Storage/service/loading. If an outdoor storage, service or loading area is visible from adjacent  residential uses, or a road or walkway; it shall be screened by a decorative fence, wall or screen  of plant material at least six feet in height. Fences and walls shall be architecturally compatible  with the primary structure.   (5) Awnings.   a. Awnings must be properly maintained, and if in poor repair must be repaired or replaced in a  timely manner.   b. Awnings may extend up to five feet over the public right‐of‐way, where approved by the city,  and must meet all building code requirements.   c. Metal awnings are prohibited unless the design of the awning is compatible with the building,  as determined by the director of community development (if the awnings require  administrative review) or the community design review board (if the awnings require design  review).   (6) Fences. Fences over four feet in height are prohibited in all front yards, except as required for  storage/service/loading as specified below.   Model variety. Each single or double‐dwelling development of 100 or more units must have at least four  models with three elevations and material treatments each. For single or double‐dwelling developments  of less than 100 units, at least three models with three variations each are required. No roadblock  should have more than two consecutive single‐dwelling houses with the same house model.     G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 56 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 - ZONING ARTICLE II. DISTRICT REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023      Parks/playgrounds. The city may require that a reasonable portion of any proposed subdivision or  development be dedicated to the public or preserved for public use as parks, playgrounds, trails or open  space.   (7) Exceptions. The director of community development (if administrative review is required) or the  community design review board (if design review is required) may consider exceptions to the above‐ mentioned design standards if they uphold the integrity of the guidelines and result in an attractive,  cohesive development design as intended by this section.   (8) Appeals. Appeals to the approved design conditions for a building or development are permitted as  specified in section 2‐285 (approval of plans).   (Ord. No. 847, § III, 2‐23‐2004)  Sec. 44-685. Landscaping. (1) Section 44‐19 (landscaping and screening) of the City Code applies in the mixed‐use zoning district unless  specified differently below:   Landscape requirements.  a. Over story trees are required at regular intervals along the road to help define the road edge, to  buffer pedestrians from vehicles and to provide shade. The over story trees shall be located in a  planting strip at least five feet wide between curb and sidewalk, or in a planting structure of  design acceptable to the city.  b. All areas of land not occupied by buildings, parking, driveways, sidewalks or other hard surface  shall be sodded or mulched and landscaped with approved ground cover, flowers, shrubbery, and  trees.   c. Hard‐surfaced areas, including sidewalks and patios, must include amenities such as benches,  planters, and bike racks.   d.  Perimeter landscape or pedestrian walls are required for all parking lots and shall be established  along the road and edges of the parking lot. The landscape treatment or pedestrian wall shall run  the full length of the parking lot and be located between the property line and the edge of the  parking lot as follows:   1. Perimeter parking lot landscaping adjacent the road shall be at least ten feet in width, as  measured from the property line or edge of a private road to the back of curb.   2. The primary plant materials used in perimeter parking lot landscaping adjacent the road  shall be over story trees. Ornamental trees, shrubs, hedges and other plant materials may  be used to supplement the over story trees, but shall not be the sole contribution to such  landscaping.   3. Perimeter parking lot landscaping along the rear and sides of a parking lot (not adjacent the  road) shall be planted with a minimum of 50 percent ground cover approved by the city to  achieve complete cover within two years. Mulch may only be used around the base of the  plant material to retain moisture.   4. In lieu of, or in addition to, perimeter parking lot landscaping, a pedestrian wall along the  perimeter of the parking lot may be constructed. The pedestrian wall is limited to four feet  in height, must be at least 80 percent opaque and must be architecturally compatible to  the principal building or development.   G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 57 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 - ZONING ARTICLE II. DISTRICT REGULATIONS SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023    e. For parking lots consisting of 20 or more spaces, interior landscape islands are required. Interior  landscape islands shall be at a rate of one landscape island for every ten parking spaces.  Landscaping areas located along the perimeter of a parking lot beyond the curb or edge of  pavement shall not be included toward satisfying this requirement.   1.  Landscape islands shall be a minimum of 144 square feet in area and shall be a minimum of  eight feet in width, as measured from back of curb to back of curb.   2. The landscape islands shall be improved as follows:   i. One overstory tree with a trunk size a minimum of two‐and‐one‐half inches in caliper  shall be provided for every landscape island.   ii. A minimum of 50 percent of every landscape island shall be planted with an  approved ground cover in the appropriate density to achieve complete cover within  two years. Mulch may only be used around the base of the plant material to retain  moisture.   (Ord. No. 847, § III, 2‐23‐2004)  Sec. 44-686. Lighting. All outdoor lighting shall be of a design and size compatible with the building and as specified in subsection  44‐19(c)(1) (outdoor lighting), except that light pole height maximum is limited to 16 feet.   (Ord. No. 847, § III, 2‐23‐2004)    G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 58 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 - ZONING ARTICLE I. IN GENERAL SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023   ARTICLE I. IN GENERAL Secs. 44-3. Scope, applicability to nonconforming structures or uses. (1) The use of all land and every building or portion of a building erected, altered with respect to height and area, added to, or relocated and every use within a building or use accessory thereto in the city shall be in conformity with this chapter. Any existing building or structure and any existing use of property not in conformity with the regulations prescribed in this chapter, as of the date of the adoption of such regulation, shall be regarded as nonconforming and subject to the regulations set forth in Sec. 44-12. (Code 1982, § 36-3) Secs. 44-6. Definitions. Nonconforming lot, building, or use means a lot, building, or a use of land or of a building, existing at the effective date of any section of this chapter, which does not conform with the requirements of such section of this chapter Secs. 44-12. Nonconformities (1) The purpose of this section is to establish regulations for nonconforming lots, buildings, and uses. It is the intent of this section that all nonconformities shall eventually be brought into conformity. (2) Any lawful use, substandard lot, or building existing at the effective date of any section of this chapter may be continued at the size and in the existing manner of operation, as specified in this section. (3) Nonconforming uses. a. If a nonconforming use of a building or land is voluntarily abandoned and ceases for a continuous period of one year or more, subsequent use of such building or land shall be in conformity with this chapter. b. Whenever a nonconforming use of a building or land has been changed to a conforming use, such use shall not thereafter be changed to a nonconforming use. c. No nonconforming use shall be extended to displace a conforming use. d. The city council may permit, through the issuance of a conditional use permit, as provided in article V of this chapter, the extension of a nonconforming use throughout those parts of a building which were manifestly designed or arranged for such use prior to the date when such use of such building became nonconforming, if no structural alteration, except those required by law, are made. e. The substitution of one nonconforming use for another nonconforming use may be permitted by the city council by conditional use permit, as provided in article V of this chapter, provided that such nonconforming use is determined by the city council to be of the same or more restrictive nature as the original nonconforming use. Whenever a nonconforming use of a building or land has been changed to a G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 59 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 - ZONING ARTICLE I. IN GENERAL SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023   use of a more restrictive classification or to a conforming use, such use shall not thereafter be changed to a use of a less restricted classification. f. No existing building or premises devoted to a use not permitted in the district in which such building or premises is located shall be enlarged, reconstructed or structurally altered, unless: i. Required by law or government order; or ii. There would not be a significant effect, as determined by the city through a conditional use permit, on the development of the parcel as zoned. (4) Nonconforming building or structures. a. Unless otherwise allowed by this section, normal maintenance and alterations of a nonconforming building or structure is only permitted as long as the there is no expansion to the foundation and/or building volume; the building capacity is not increased; and the nonconformity of the use is not increased. Alterations to improve the livability of nonconforming residential units is allowed provided that it does not increase the number of dwelling units, size of building, or volume of building. b. No nonconforming building or structure shall be moved to any other part of the parcel or to another lot unless the movement shall bring the nonconforming building or structure into compliance with the requirements of this chapter. c. If a nonconforming building, structure or use is destroyed by fire or other peril to the extent of greater than 50 percent of its market value and no building permit has been applied for within 180 days from the date the building or structure was damaged, subsequent use of such building or land shall be brought into conformity with the chapter. The city may impose reasonable conditions upon a building permit sought in order to maintain a damaged nonconforming building, structure, or use in order to mitigate any newly created impact upon adjacent property. d. A property owner or developer may expand a nonconforming structure or parking lot if the structure or parking lot meets the following conditions: i. The zoning regulations permit the use. ii. The expansion would meet the minimum setbacks required by this chapter or the setbacks of the existing structure, whichever is less. The expansion shall not exceed the maximum height required by this chapter or the existing height, whichever is taller. To deviate from these requirements, the city may approve a conditional use permit, subject to the standards in this Code. iii. The minimum setback from the ordinary high-water level in a shoreland district would be at least the average setback of adjacent residential structures or 50 feet, whichever is greater. iv. All portions of the structure would be on the applicant's property. v. Runoff from the overhang of the addition would not adversely affect an adjacent property. (Code 1982, § 36-572) (5) Nonconforming lots. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 60 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION REVIEW CHAPTER 44 - ZONING ARTICLE I. IN GENERAL SEPTEMEBER 12, 2023   a. The city shall allow construction on nonconforming lots that do not meet the size, width, frontage or depth standards if the lots meet the following requirements: b. Since becoming substandard, the lots have always been in separate ownership from abutting lands. c. The lots were of record in the county recorder's office on the effective date of the ordinance from which this section derives. d. There is no evidence that the lots did not meet the official controls in effect when the city approved the lots. e. Any sewage treatment system meets the requirements of this Code. f. The zoning regulations would permit the use. (Code 1982, § 36-17; Ord. No. 867, § 2, 3-27-2006) Secs. 44-20. Additional design standards (1) Grandfathering of nonconforming luminaires. Luminaires lawfully in place before the effective date of the ordinance from which this subsection derives shall be allowed to remain. Such luminaires, however, are not exempt from complying with the outdoor- lighting ordinance that was in effect at the time of their installation. If fixtures are replaced as part of any construction requiring a building permit, the fixture shall be upgraded to meet the requirements of this subsection. (from Sec. 44-20 e) Secs. 44-1100. Duration. (1) Conditional Use Permits a. All conditional use permits shall be reviewed by the council within one year of the date of initial approval, unless such review is waived by council decision. At the one-year review, the council may specify an indefinite term or specific term, not to exceed five years, for subsequent reviews. The council may impose new or additional conditions upon the permit at the time of the initial or subsequent reviews. b. A conditional use permit shall remain in effect as long as the conditions agreed upon are observed, but nothing in this section shall prevent the city from enacting or amending official controls to change the status of conditional uses. Any conditional use that meets the agreed upon conditions and is later allowed because of the city enacting or amending official controls shall be considered a legal nonconforming use. G1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 61 of 67 THIS PAGE IS INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK PC Packet Page Number 62 of 67 PLANNING COMMISSION STAFF REPORT Meeting Date September 19, 2023 REPORT TO: Melinda Coleman, City Manager REPORT FROM: Michael Martin, AICP, Assistant Community Development Director Elizabeth Hammond, Planner PRESENTER: Elizabeth Hammond, Planner AGENDA ITEM: Sacred Communities and Micro-Unit Dwellings Update Action Requested: ☐ Motion  Discussion ☐ Public Hearing Form of Action: ☐ Resolution ☐ Ordinance ☐ Contract/Agreement ☐ Proclamation Policy Issue: This past legislative session, the Minnesota Legislature adopted a Sacred Communities and Micro- Unit Dwellings law (Attachment 1) whereby municipalities must allow sacred communities and micro-unit dwellings that conform to the regulations established in the law. In October, the City Council will hold a workshop to discuss this item and provide staff and the Planning Commission direction on what steps should be taken before the new legislation takes effect on January 1, 2024. No action is needed from the Planning Commission at this time. Staff wanted to introduce the topic to the Planning Commission this month to make members aware. Recommended Action: No action is requested at this time. Fiscal Impact: Is There a Fiscal Impact?  No ☐ Yes, the true or estimated cost is $0 Financing source(s): ☐ Adopted Budget ☐ Budget Modification ☐ New Revenue Source ☐ Use of Reserves  Other: N/A Strategic Plan Relevance: ☐ Community Inclusiveness ☐ Financial & Asset Mgmt ☐ Environmental Stewardship ☐ Integrated Communication  Operational Effectiveness ☐ Targeted Redevelopment The city works to enact regulations to ensure the orderly development of land. The city's authority granted by the Municipal Planning Act must also recognize certain State or Federal regulations preempt local authority. Background: Beginning January 1, 2024, cities must allow faith communities to place micro-units on religious property to house chronically homeless individuals, extremely low-income individuals, and volunteers. The micro-units can be constructed up to 400 square feet, built on a chassis, and I1 PC Packet Page Number 63 of 67 anchored to the ground on religious property. The language defines minimum standards for micro- units, including minimum requirements for access to water and utilities either by individual connections or access to facilities in a common area or within the principal building of the religious institution. Please review the attached legislation. Attachments: 1.Sacred Communities and Micro Unit Dwellings Legislation I1 PC Packet Page Number 64 of 67 Minnesota Session Laws 2023, Chapter 53 SACRED COMMUNITIES AND MICRO-UNIT DWELLINGS. Subdivision 1. Definitions. (a) For the purposes of this section, the following terms have the meanings given. (b) Chronically homeless" means an individual who: (1) is homeless and lives or resides in a place not meant for human habitation, a safe haven, or in an emergency shelter; (2) has been homeless and living or residing in a place not meant for human habitation, a safe haven, or in an emergency shelter continuously for at least one year or on at least four separate occasions in the last three years; and (3) has an adult head of household, or a minor head-of-household if no adult is present in the household, with a diagnosable substance use disorder, serious mental illness, developmental disability, post-traumatic stress disorder, cognitive impairments resulting from a brain injury, or chronic physical illness or disability, including the co-occurrence of two or more of those conditions. (c) "Designated volunteers" means persons who have not experienced homelessness and have been approved by the religious institution to live in a sacred community as their sole form of housing. (d) "Extremely low income" means an income that is equal to or less than 30 percent of the area median income, adjusted for family size, as estimated by the Department of Housing and Urban Development. (e) "Micro unit" means a mobile residential dwelling providing permanent housing within a sacred community that meets the requirements of subdivision 4. (f) "Religious institution" means a church, synagogue, mosque, or other religious organization organized under chapter 315. (g) "Sacred community" means a residential settlement established on or contiguous to the grounds of a religious institution's primary worship location primarily for the purpose of providing permanent housing for chronically homeless persons, extremely low-income persons, and designated volunteers that meets the requirements of subdivision 3. Subd. 2. Dwelling in micro units in sacred communities authorized. Religious institutions are authorized to provide permanent housing to people who are chronically homeless, extremely low-income, or designated volunteers, in sacred communities composed of micro units subject to the provisions of this section. Each religious institution that has sited a sacred community must annually certify to the local unit of I1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 65 of 67 government that it has complied with the eligibility requirements for residents of a sacred community in this section. Subd. 3. Sacred community requirements. (a) A sacred community must provide residents of micro units access to water and electric utilities either by connecting the micro units to the utilities that are serving the principal building on the lot or by other comparable means, or by providing the residents access to permanent common kitchen facilities and common facilities for toilet, bathing, and laundry with the number and type of fixtures required for an R-2 boarding house under Minnesota Rules, part 1305.2902. Any units that are plumbed shall not be included in determining the minimum number of fixtures required for the common facilities. (b) A sacred community under this section must: (1) be appropriately insured; (2) have between one-third and 40 percent of the micro units occupied by designated volunteers; and (3) provide the municipality with a written plan approved by the religious institution's governing board that outlines: (i) disposal of water and sewage from micro units if not plumbed; (ii) septic tank drainage if plumbed units are not hooked up to the primary worship location's system; (iii) adequate parking, lighting, and access to units by emergency vehicles; (iv) protocols for security and addressing conduct within the settlement; and (v) safety protocols for severe weather. (c) Unless the municipality has designated sacred communities meeting the requirements of this section as permitted uses, a sacred community meeting the requirements of this section shall be approved and regulated as a conditional use without the application of additional standards not included in this section. When approved, additional permitting is not required for individual micro units. (d) Sacred communities are subject to the laws governing landlords and tenants under chapter 504B. Subd. 4. Micro unit requirements. (a) In order to be eligible to be placed within a sacred community, a micro unit must be built to the requirements of the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) Code 119.5, which includes standards for heating, electrical systems, and fire and life safety. A micro unit must also meet the following technical requirements: (1) be no more than 400 gross square feet; I1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 66 of 67 (2) be built on a permanent chassis and anchored to pin foundations with engineered fasteners; (3) have exterior materials that are compatible in composition, appearance, and durability to the exterior materials used in standard residential construction; (4) have a minimum insulation rating of R-20 in walls, R-30 in floors, and R-38 in ceilings, as well as residential grade insulated doors and windows; (5) have a dry, compostable, or plumbed toilet or other system meeting the requirements of the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Chapters 7035, 7040, 7049, and 7080, or other applicable rules; (6) have either an electrical system that meets NFPA 70 NEC, section 551 or 552 as applicable or a low voltage electrical system that meets ANSI/RVIA Low Voltage Standard, current edition; (7) have minimum wall framing with two inch by four inch wood or metal studs with framing of 16 inches to 24 inches on center, or the equivalent in structural insulated panels, with a floor load of 40 pounds per square foot and a roof live load of 42 pounds per square foot; and (8) have smoke and carbon monoxide detectors installed. (b) All micro units, including their anchoring, must be inspected and certified for compliance with these requirements by a licensed Minnesota professional engineer or qualified third-party inspector for ANSI compliance accredited pursuant to either the American Society for Testing and Materials Appendix E541 or ISO/IEC 17020. (c) Micro units that connect to utilities such as water, sewer, gas, or electric, must obtain any permits or inspections required by the municipality or utility company for that connection. (d) Micro units must comply with municipal setback requirements established by ordinance for manufactured homes. If a municipality does not have such an ordinance, micro units must be set back on all sides by at least ten feet. EFFECTIVE DATE. This section is effective January 1, 2024. I1, Attachment 1 PC Packet Page Number 67 of 67