Commission separates pet grooming from boarding and tightens rules for commercial trash enclosures

The Idaho Falls Planning and Zoning Commission on Sept. 2 recommended several amendments to the zoning code to (1) allow pet grooming as a distinct personal‑service use separate from boarding, and (2) clarify screening and siting standards for commercial trash enclosures.

City staff presented the changes and said uncoupling grooming from boarding will help small businesses locate in appropriate commercial zones without creating boarding‑related nuisances such as prolonged barking or odor. "The intent here is to remove [grooming] so that small vets could provide grooming services," a staff presenter said, explaining the proposal would remove grooming from the animal care clinic prohibition and list pet grooming (without boarding) in the personal service category.

Staff also proposed new language for trash enclosures on commercial sites: enclosures and recycling areas must be screened on a minimum of three sides with opaque materials (explicitly excluding chain‑link fencing with slats), and enclosures must not be located within the front setback or a required landscape buffer. Staff told the commission that gates can impede sanitation truck access, so the intent is consistent, durable screening that does not block collection vehicle operation. Multifamily developments were noted to be subject to the commercial standards described.

Commissioners supported the clarifications and asked that the new purple‑highlighted language be included in the packet to city council. One commissioner said making the code more direct will simplify interpretation for staff and developers. After discussion the commission voted to recommend approval of the amendments to sections 11‑2‑6 (standards for allowed land use), 11‑7‑1 (definitions related to pet grooming) and 11‑4‑4 (landscaping buffers and screening) as amended. The motion was moved from the dais and seconded; the motion passed unanimously (vote counts not specified in the transcript).

Staff recommended the commission forward the amended language to the mayor and city council. Commissioners also asked staff to invite Public Works to present current and upcoming transportation projects at a December or January meeting and to consider a separate discussion on corridor widening and impact‑fee funding mechanisms.