Commission okays self-storage zoning changes; shipping-container wording left for later review

The Augusta Planning Commission approved a proposed amendment to Section 10.36 of the city's zoning regulations to set rules for commercial self-storage facilities. The commission approved the version of the ordinance recommended by staff, with changes made after staff consultation with a local industry representative. The amendment will be forwarded to City Council on April 21 for final approval.

Staff said revisions were made to reflect industry practice and to address neighborhood impacts. Key changes adopted by the commission include a prohibition on outdoor vehicle and equipment storage (the draft language allows such storage only if it is within an enclosed structure), a required 15-foot side setback for storage units that face residential zoning districts (in place of the current 5-foot side setback), and a maximum lot-coverage allowance set to a…