Chino Valley Planning Commission reviews regulations for metal storage containers

The Chino Valley Planning and Zoning Commission is taking significant steps toward regulating metal storage containers, a topic that has sparked considerable public interest and debate. During a special meeting on August 27, 2024, the commission revisited this issue for the third time, aiming to finalize amendments to the town's Unified Development Ordinance.

The discussion began with a recap of the timeline surrounding the proposed regulations. Initial conversations started in March, with the town council seeking public input through open houses held in June. Feedback revealed a strong community preference against strict regulations, particularly regarding the quantity of containers allowed on residential properties and the desire for minimal restrictions on placement and appearance.

Key points from the public input indicated that residents were largely opposed to limits on the number of containers, setbacks, and specific aesthetic requirements, such as painting containers a single color or removing logos. However, there was a split opinion on whether containers should be free of graffiti.

In response to these insights, the commission is now considering a framework that would allow metal storage containers as an accessory use in designated zoning districts. Proposed regulations include defining what constitutes a metal storage container, establishing guidelines for their placement, and addressing the grandfathering of existing containers at the time of ordinance adoption.

The commission is also exploring regulations for commercial and industrial districts, where the consensus appears to favor fewer restrictions on quantity but still emphasizes the need for aesthetic considerations, such as height limits and the potential for stacking containers.

As the commission moves forward, they aim to craft language that balances community desires with the need for regulation, ensuring that the final ordinance reflects both public sentiment and practical governance. The next steps will involve further discussions and refinements to the proposed regulations, with the goal of presenting a comprehensive plan to the town council for approval.