City updates vehicle-storage rules, clarifies screening and 21-day limit for stored vehicles

The Planning and Zoning Commission on Sept. 10 recommended approval of ZTA-004-2025, a zoning text amendment to clarify how the Dickinson Municipal Code treats vehicle storage and outdoor storage for auto-service uses. Natalie Burczyk, city planner, said the city proposes eliminating an ambiguous “vehicle storage” use and clarifying definitions so that motor vehicles — regardless of operability — “are not classified as outdoor storage.” Under the proposed changes, short-term vehicle storage (less than 21 days) would be allowed in General Commercial (GC), Light Industrial (LI) and General Industrial (GI) zones; long-term vehicle storage (more than 21 days) would be permitted only in LI and GI. Auto repair, equipment repair and body repair uses in commercial districts must conduct repair activities inside a fully enclosed building; outdoor storage of materials and parts remains allowed only if completely screened from residential areas and public rights-of-way. Burczyk said staff mailed notices to 26 auto repair businesses and properties within 300 feet and received 12 calls, including one opposed contact. Leonard Schwint, the city’s building official, said these definitions align with past enforcement practice. During the public hearing Jay Wilhelm of Dickinson Econo Storage described longstanding street-parking and snow-removal issues near a cluster of auto businesses and said on-street parking beyond the city’s 48‑hour rule was not being enforced consistently; he asked for relief. Commissioners and staff clarified that the text amendment affects off-street storage and screening standards and does not change on-street parking rules, which remain enforceable by the police department at 48 hours. Commissioner Wanko noted the practical enforcement question of when a vehicle parked by a customer constitutes a violation and whether a business can be held responsible when a customer or tow drops a vehicle in a no-parking zone; staff said enforcement will be handled case by case and code enforcement/PD will be involved as needed. After public comment the commission voted to recommend the amendment; the motion recorded states ZTA-004-2025 is consistent with the comprehensive plan and zoning ordinance and in the interest of public health, safety and welfare. The motion carried by voice vote.