Torrington planners schedule public hearings on multiple zoning amendments for Jan. 21, 2026
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Summary
The commission set public hearings for Jan. 21, 2026, to consider proposed amendments covering automobile establishment frontage, lighting rules, warehouses/self‑storage, and electric‑vehicle charging standards. Staff recommended aligning lighting rules with Lights Out Connecticut and adding EV charger standards to the parking regulations.
On Nov. 17 the Torrington Planning & Zoning Commission scheduled a set of public hearings for Jan. 21, 2026 to consider several proposed zoning amendments affecting commercial regulation, lighting, warehousing and electric‑vehicle infrastructure.
Attorney Peter Ebersol introduced a proposal to amend Section 6.20.1.d to clarify frontage rules for automobile repair shops that do not sell or display vehicles. City planning staff also presented a package of lighting regulation changes (Section 5.17) drafted to align with the model outdoor lighting regulations produced by Lights Out Connecticut, including new definitions, revisions to allowable illuminance and photometric survey rules, and exemptions for one‑ to three‑family dwellings from most enforcement except light trespass to public rights of way.
Staff additionally proposed updates for warehouses, distribution centers and self‑storage (including a proposed 100‑foot front‑yard setback in the Local Business zone and special‑exception rules for outdoor storage), and a new parking regulation section (5.13.6) to set minimum EV charger requirements for large redevelopments, permitted charger types, fees and signage requirements.
Commissioners generally supported proceeding to public hearings so residents can comment; formal votes set the hearing date by voice vote.
What happens next: the commission will hold public hearings on Jan. 21, 2026 and then consider revisions based on public comment and staff recommendations.