Derby holds first reading on broad zoning and subdivision code updates; second reading set for May 13

Derby City Council on April 22 received a first reading of multiple proposed amendments to the city’s zoning and subdivision code following a planning commission‑led process. The council voted to schedule a second reading and potential adoption for May 13, 2025.

City Planner Scott Kanable presented a package of 14 recommended changes generated by a steering committee, the planning commission and the Community Development Advisory Board. Kanable said two items considered by the steering committee were deferred: window signage (the planning commission directed additional research following business community concerns) and design criteria for duplexes repeated through blocks.

Key proposed changes described by staff include equalizing temporary sign durations for commercial and residential property and allowing administrative 30‑day extensions for temporary sign permits; expressly permitting common inflatable temporary signage for private life events; creating an “office/retail/flex/warehouse” use (commonly used by trades and contractors) permitted in B‑3 and B‑4 zones provided the entire frontage reads as office/retail and no outdoor storage is used; clarifying that driveways crossing landscape street yards do not reduce tree‑planting obligations; adding a requirement that the right‑of‑way side strip between curb and sidewalk be planted or otherwise treated as part of a project; and clarifying that mechanical and communication equipment boxes are subject to screening requirements.

Additional proposals would increase the permitted accessory structure height from 60 percent to 80 percent of the principal structure height (to allow two‑story accessory dwelling units consistent with a separate special‑use approval), limit temporary events in Accident Potential Zones (APZ) under McConnell Air Force Base approach to 50 people per acre, allow metal‑panel screening fences in M‑1 where metal panel buildings are used, and permit mini‑storage (self‑storage) by special use in B‑3 subject to architectural compatibility, setbacks and prohibitions on outdoor storage or repair operations. The package also clarifies one‑step plat submittal requirements, revises annexation‑certificate language tied to county plats to clarify intent and limits, and adds stormwater adequacy as a planned unit development review consideration.

Kanable said the changes are mostly clarifications and illustrations intended to reduce confusion for applicants and designers. Council member Molt moved to schedule a second reading of the ordinances for May 13, 2025; the motion carried 6‑0.

Discussion at the meeting included pushback from the business community about proposed window‑signage limits (the chamber and some local business owners had asked for additional consultation; the planning commission tabled that item and returned it to the steering committee). A speaker identified themselves as the Chamber President and CEO (name not specified in the transcript) said the chamber had not been included in an off‑site meeting and indicated they would abstain if the item returns to council in a way that affects their organization; city staff committed to review conflict‑of‑interest statutory requirements before returning the item. Council members also debated grandfathering and business competitiveness concerns and cautioned staff to follow the established process so stakeholders can comment at planning commission and at the second council reading.

The amendments are intended to make the zoning code clearer to applicants, reduce inconsistent interpretations and address recurring application issues the city has observed in reviews. The City Clerk will publish the ordinance schedule and planning staff will continue outreach on the window‑signage item before returning with recommendations.