Council Reviews Tire Storage Proposal Amid Mosquito Concerns and Zoning Regulations

During the Clay County Planning Commission meeting on September 2, 2025, a significant discussion centered around the storage of tires at a local business, highlighting concerns about mosquito breeding and compliance with safety regulations. The business currently operates from a property that includes a single-family residence and is seeking to store up to 500 tires on-site, primarily behind the residence.

Commission members raised questions about the storage methods, particularly regarding the fire marshal's restrictions on using pole barns for tire storage. The business owner indicated a willingness to comply with county regulations, suggesting alternatives such as covering the tires or treating them with a bleach solution to mitigate mosquito breeding risks.

The discussion also touched on the physical layout of the property, with tires intended to be stored away from the front of the house to minimize theft risks. The owner confirmed that the tires would be stacked to a height of approximately six feet and that the property is fully fenced, with plans for additional landscaping to meet zoning requirements.

Despite the business's efforts to adhere to safety and zoning guidelines, staff analysis indicated that the request for tire storage may not align with the Land Development Code or the Clay Hill overlay, leading to a recommendation for denial. However, the Clay Advisory Committee (CAC) had previously recommended approval, creating a divergence in opinions that the commission will need to address moving forward.

As the meeting concluded, the commission faced the challenge of balancing community safety concerns with the operational needs of local businesses, setting the stage for further discussions on land use and zoning regulations in Clay County.