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Council clears zoning change to allow 5-foot rear setbacks next to public multiuse paths
Summary
The council unanimously adopted an amendment to Chapter 28 of the Madison General Ordinances allowing a 5-foot rear setback for certain zoning districts when a property abuts a publicly owned multiuse path; public comment raised concerns about tree loss and neighborhood character.
The Common Council unanimously adopted an amendment to Chapter 28 of the Madison General Ordinances on Jan. 13 that clarifies side-yard provisions and allows a 5-foot rear-yard setback for mixed-use commercial, employment and downtown districts when a property is adjacent to a publicly owned multiuse path.
Director Tuttle told the council the code change also removes duplicative setback language and clarifies existing street-side yard provisions to reduce administrative confusion. The 5-foot rear setback is intended to better align regulatory requirements for properties adjacent to public paths, she said.
During public comment, Linda Lennerts of South Paterson opposed the change and urged alderpersons to consider tree impacts and neighborhood character. "I urge you to please think about the trees," Lennerts said, detailing concerns about recent development practices that removed or damaged trees near lot lines.
After brief questions from council members and no further discussion, the council recorded a unanimous voice vote in favor of the ordinance.
Next steps: the ordinance will take effect according to the city's adoption schedule and staff noted the Madison Food Policy Commission date change as a separate calendar adjustment reviewed on the consent agenda.
