Council approves ordinance to allow limited outdoor storage for businesses

Tallmadge City Council approved Ordinance 2025-44 on April 24, 2025, amending municipal rules on accessory and temporary uses to permit limited outdoor storage of vehicles, equipment and materials for businesses.

Planning and Zoning Committee recommended the change 5-0 before the ordinance reached its third reading. Councilwoman Mary Gutman opened the public hearing and closed it after no public testimony was offered. City staff said the amendment is intended to be “business friendly” and to formalize storage practices that some businesses are already using.

The ordinance amends Sections 1104.06 (Accessory and Temporary Use Table) and 1104.08 (Outdoor Storage of Vehicles and Equipment) of the Tallmadge Codified Ordinances. City planning staff said the text includes standards intended to protect neighboring residences and other uses by requiring setbacks and buffering where appropriate. Helene Hussing, who appeared before the council to describe the regulations, said the provisions are designed to protect residential uses on industrially zoned lots through setbacks and screening.

Council members moved and seconded adoption; the roll call vote was unanimous with Christine Sippa (Cipa), Jessica Epstein, Mary Gutman, Donald Pavlik, Ted Roy, Nick Rubino and Jonathan Bolas voting “yes.” The ordinance was declared approved 7 to 0.

The change will make permitted certain outdoor storage activities that previously occurred without formal authorization; details for implementation—such as permit application processes, compliance inspections or effective dates—were not specified during the hearing.

Planning and zoning staff will be the point of contact for questions about how the new standards will be applied to specific properties.