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City staff seeks to move carport approvals to Board of Adjustment with special‑exception criteria
Summary
Staff presented two alternative ordinances to allow front‑yard carports by special exception to the Board of Adjustment, set minimum criteria (10‑ft front setback, 400‑sq‑ft limit), add disability accommodation language in one version, and eliminate an obsolete demolition requirement.
City staff presented proposed text amendments on Jan. 5 to change how carports are authorized in residential areas: instead of handling them exclusively through zoning/SP processes, staff proposes allowing front‑yard carports through a special‑exception process administered by the Board of Adjustment.
The proposal would amend section 1.15 (special exceptions) and the accessory section of the UDC. Key features in both ordinance drafts: carports must be open on three sides, cannot exceed 400 square feet, must be at least 10 feet behind the front property line, and must meet other listed criteria so the BOA can determine whether a carport would be detrimental to adjacent properties. One P&Z‑recommended draft also includes an explicit consideration for disability accommodations.
Staff explained the BOA decision would be final; if the BOA denies a special exception, the zoning/SP pathway would not be an alternative and the only remedy would be judicial review. Commissioners discussed the potential for applicants to exploit disability language and how the BOA should evaluate claims. Staff said state and federal disability definitions would be followed and that the BOA could request documentation when appropriate.
Next steps: the commission will consider which ordinance draft to recommend to council and, if majority supports one, staff will forward the chosen language to City Council for consideration.
