Commission approves text amendment expanding "new motorcycle" definition to include powersports

The Planning Zoning Commission on May 5 approved a text amendment to the Red Oak zoning ordinance that expands the definition of “new motorcycle sales” to cover additional powersport vehicles, City staff said.

Under the revised wording approved by the commission, the definition for new motorcycle sales will include side-by-sides, all‑terrain vehicles (ATVs), utility terrain vehicles (UTVs), 4‑wheelers, recreational off‑road vehicles, on‑road motorcycles, off‑road motorcycles and 3‑wheel motorcycles. Staff said other definitions, including one proposed for powerboats and personal watercraft (jet skis), will be brought to the commission at a later date following direction from City Council.

City staff told the commission the change is intended to allow the city to classify businesses that sell powersport vehicles under existing zoning categories that permit motorcycle sales, while maintaining the same special‑use permit and parking requirements in relevant districts (for example, highway‑oriented districts and C‑1 districts). The item was heard in a public hearing; no public speakers addressed the amendment, and the public hearing was closed before the commission voted.

Commissioners voted to approve the new ordinance wording; the meeting record shows the motion carried with “ayes.” Staff said the council had previously asked staff to return with a broader definition and a separate proposed definition for watercraft.