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Commission backs zoning-text amendment to allow indoor convenience storage in C3 with special use permit
Summary
Bettendorf planning staff proposed, and the commission recommended approval of, a zoning ordinance amendment to permit indoor convenience storage in the C3 district by special use permit, to provide a case-by-case review process for small commercial storage uses.
The Bettendorf Plan and Zoning Commission voted to recommend approval of case 25-18, a zoning text amendment allowing convenience (indoor) storage in the C3 community commercial district subject to a special use permit before the Board of Adjustment.
Planning staff explained the amendment would move “convenience storage” (indoor, personal-storage units) into the permitted-use table for C3 as a use allowed by special permit. Staff said convenience storage is currently allowed only in industrial districts; the amendment responds to developer demand for storage closer to residential areas and would permit only indoor, smaller-scale storage intended for personal effects rather than large warehousing.
Staff recommended the special-use process because the city wants to evaluate traffic, connectivity and the intensity of surrounding commercial uses on a case-by-case basis. Taylor (planning staff) and other staff explained that the Board of Adjustment’s special-use criteria — similar to other special uses such as outdoor patios or high-pump gas stations — would guide approvals and would typically require an advanced concept or near–site-plan level of information.
Commissioners discussed adding landscaping and screening requirements so storage facilities with visible garage doors better fit commercial corridors. Several commissioners said they support allowing convenience storage in appropriate locations to avoid using scarce industrial land for lower-intensity storage uses. The commission opened and closed the public hearing with no public comment, then moved and seconded approval of the text amendment; a roll-call vote recorded all members present voting yes and the motion carried.
If approved by City Council, the change will allow convenience storage in C3 on a case-by-case basis through the special-use permit process and will leave higher‑impact commercial uses subject to separate review and zoning where appropriate.
