Private-road standards raised in public comment; local landscape architect urges code change to allow larger gated private roads

At the Jan. 22 meeting, Scott Taylor, a Vancouver-based landscape architect working on projects in and around La Center, asked council to consult staff about updating the city code limiting private roads (referred to in the public comment as “bridal” roads) to serve a maximum of four lots.

Taylor explained that private roads are common in Clark County, can be built narrower than public streets, and when properly designed and gated allow necessary emergency access through Knox boxes, vehicle turn-around areas and strobe sensors. He said Clark County’s standards typically allow private roads of 20 feet with a sidewalk on one side and that the International Fire Code allows up to 30 dwelling units served by a single access point before requiring a second access.

“Private roads for them, are typically 20 foot wide minimum and have sidewalk on 1 side. ... The Knox box, you basically, register that with the fire department and emergency, services,” Taylor said. He asked staff to review La Center’s Section 12.101.40 (private roads) and consider increasing the maximum number of lots served from four to a higher number — Taylor suggested 30.

Council did not vote or direct staff to begin an immediate code amendment at the meeting; a council member told Taylor he would be in contact with staff. The presentation was recorded during the public-comment portion; staff and council members thanked Taylor and noted they will follow up with a staff contact for further discussion.