Dickinson planners approve zoning text change clarifying vehicle storage, prompting business and resident concerns

The Dickinson City Planning and Zoning Commission on Sept. 10 recommended approval of ZTA-004-2025, a zoning-text amendment that redefines outdoor storage and removes a separate “vehicle storage” use while clarifying screening and time limits for vehicles associated with auto services.

City planner Natalie Burczyk told commissioners the change explicitly excludes motor vehicles from the municipal definition of outdoor storage and instead treats vehicles under the city’s short-term and long-term vehicle storage rules. Under the amendment, short-term vehicle storage is defined as under 21 days and would be allowed in General Commercial, Light Industrial and General Industrial zones; long-term storage (more than 21 days) would be allowed only in Light Industrial or General Industrial zones. The amendment also clarifies that parts, materials and other outdoor storage must be screened so they are…