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Ivins OKs rooftop wireless equipment use, citing coverage gains and screening requirements
Summary
The council approved an amendment to add rooftop wireless communications equipment as a permitted use in Table 33‑2, intended to allow screened rooftop antennas (e.g., Verizon at Black Desert properties) to improve coverage while avoiding visible towers; ordinance passed after staff clarifications proposed by the city attorney.
Ivins City Council on March 19 approved a zoning text amendment to add a new use for rooftop wireless communications equipment to Table 33‑2 of the Ivins City Code and to require that such equipment be located on building roofs and screened from public view.
Planning staff explained that the change responds to a request from Black Desert and Verizon to place antennas on tall resort buildings rather than erecting visible 120‑foot towers previously proposed. Planning Commission recommended the amendment and emphasized screening requirements; neighbors from the Reserve (including Michelle Adams and Jerry Armstrong) spoke in favor, citing chronic poor cellular reception.
City attorney suggestions clarified ordinance text to explicitly reference table 33‑2 rather than implying replacement of the entire table. Councilmember motions approved Ordinance 2026‑08 as amended; the roll‑call vote recorded ayes from members present.
Supporters said the rooftop option will improve coverage for residents and emergency services in coverage‑challenged neighborhoods while preserving neighborhood aesthetics by avoiding new towers. Staff noted carriers other than Verizon might later seek to use the same rooftop approach but that each application must meet screening and location standards set by the ordinance.
Council approved the ordinance after brief discussion of appendices and attorney edits; Michelle Adams, a nearby resident, thanked the council for moving the item forward.
Next steps: staff will update the zoning map and permit procedures to list the new use in Table 33‑2 and will circulate guidance about roof‑mount design and screening requirements to applicants and neighborhood associations.
