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County planning staff presents proposed zoning ordinance amendments; board conducts first reading
Summary
Planning and zoning staff presented proposed edits to the county zoning ordinance during a first reading. Changes include updated definitions, standards for multifamily and mixed-use developments, planned unit development language, and provisions for storing display fireworks with federal permits.
Chippewa County planning staff conducted a first reading of proposed amendments to the county zoning ordinance on June 10, describing a package of updates that have been under review and circulated to towns and planning commissions for roughly 12 to 18 months.
The presenter said the changes aim to clarify definitions (for example, hotel and motel definitions aligned with state statute language), revise setback language to cover corner and irregular lots, and update residential district rules for multifamily dwellings. Multifamily units (three or more) will continue to be allowed in the R-3 district; the proposal would make developments of five or more units subject to conditional-use review so towns and planning bodies can weigh in on larger multiunit projects.
Staff described planned-unit development (PUD) updates to allow multiple primary buildings on a single parcel in certain commercial districts, subject to rezoning and a multi-step review that includes town boards, the planning and zoning committee, and the county board. The PUD language will require applicants to provide detailed upfront information so reviewers may place reasonable, enforceable conditions tailored to each proposal.
Other changes include a permitted-use standard for outdoor display fireworks storage when the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) issues a permit and federal setback standards are met; a proposed 400-square-foot minimum dwelling unit size (drawn from a city ordinance) for some units; and updated setback definitions for front, rear and side yards.
Supervisors asked clarifying questions during the reading. One asked whether the state statute defines "adequate" for development standards; planning staff said they would check state law and follow up. The presenter emphasized this hearing was a reading and not a final vote; the ordinance changes will return for public hearings and subsequent board action following the required town reviews and planning-commission recommendations.
Because the county zoning ordinance amendments must be considered by town boards in the county's six zoning towns, staff said the revision process includes town review, planning commission hearings, and county-level public hearings before adoption.
