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Clarkdale council adopts comprehensive zoning-code rewrite to modernize rules and preserve character
Summary
The Clarkdale Town Council unanimously approved Ordinance 454, a comprehensive update to the town’s zoning code that reorganizes chapters, clarifies definitions, creates a standalone historic preservation chapter and adds standards such as bicycle parking and dark-sky lighting limits.
The Clarkdale Town Council approved Ordinance 454 on May 12, adopting a comprehensive overhaul of the town’s zoning code intended to modernize language and improve usability while preserving Clarkdale’s character.
Clover Pinion, community development staff, told the council the rewrite reorganizes and clarifies the code by removing the zoning map from the ordinance, consolidating lot and sign standards, adding specific definitions (including for data centers and microbreweries), and making the Historic Preservation District its own chapter. "We believe that it improves clarity and consistency," Pinion said, adding the update reflects modern standards without major policy changes.
Pinion said the update also adds new standards—bicycle parking, shared parking provisions and administrative review of commercial signage—and aligns outdoor-lighting rules with dark-sky recommendations by limiting color temperature to 4,000 kelvins or less.
The planning commission reviewed and unanimously approved the update in April. Council members asked for clarification on how citizens can view the town’s zoning map; Pinion said maps remain available on the town website so small edits will not require text amendments.
Vice Mayor Hunstetter moved to approve the ordinance, and Councilmember Babbitt Pierce seconded. The motion authorized the mayor, town attorney and town clerk to execute related documents; the motion carried by voice vote with no recorded opposition.
The ordinance reorganizes the zoning code into clearer chapters (including separate sections for definitions, zoning districts, general provisions, conditional-use procedures, historic preservation, design review and subdivision regulations) and streamlines administrative and appeal procedures. Pinion said staff and a citizens advisory committee formed in February 2025 guided the revisions.
Council members praised staff and the citizen committee for the work required to review the lengthy packet. The council did not change the substantive policy direction in the update and will move forward with implementation according to the town’s timetable.
