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North Bend planning commission begins code-cleanup work session on setbacks, permitted uses, accessory structures and vision clearance
Summary
City staff led a work session to solicit commission feedback on City Code cleanup topics including standardizing side-yard setbacks, simplifying cross-references for permitted uses, clarifying residential allowances in commercial zones, defining accessory structures and setbacks, and revising vision-clearance measurement standards.
City planner Palak Pande presented a City Code cleanup work session and asked the commission for feedback on multiple drafting and organization issues. Pande framed the session as discussion-only; no formal action was taken.
Key topics and positions:
- Side-yard setbacks: Pande asked whether side-yard setbacks should be standardized (10 or 12 feet) across residential zones. Commissioners disagreed on a single approach: some favored keeping larger setbacks for larger lots to preserve rural character; others said smaller setbacks may be appropriate as the city accommodates smaller lots. No decision was made; staff will return with more data.
- Cross-referencing and permitted uses: Pande said current code redirects readers through multiple zone references (e.g., R5→R6→R7), which frustrates staff and applicants. Commissioners generally favored simplifying cross-references or adding an index so users can find permitted uses without repeated navigation.
- Residential uses in commercial zones (CL/CG): Staff highlighted confusing language where a general listing implies "residential uses permitted outright" but a later section limits residential development in limited sections to multifamily only. Commissioners recommended clearer language that explicitly notes which residential types are allowed in commercial zones.
- Accessory structures: Staff noted the code lacks definitions for carports, sheds, and other small accessory structures, and that regulation of small (<200 sq. ft.) sheds currently receives no permit filings despite setback obligations. Commissioners recommended standard definitions and clarified setback rules, with grandfathering for existing nonconforming structures.
- Vision clearance measurement: Staff asked whether vision clearance should be measured from the curb/edge of street rather than from the property line to standardize requirements across varying sidewalk widths. Commissioners generally supported standardizing measurement from the street/right-of-way edge but asked staff to invite the public-works/building official to advise next meeting.
Pande said she will invite the building official (Derek) to the next meeting for technical input and return with proposed code language or options. The commission did not take formal votes during the work session; staff intends to hold follow-up work sessions and then a consolidated public hearing for code changes.
