City council approves ordinance to allow miniature golf in commercial zones

The Kamas City Council on April 14 adopted Ordinance 2026-12 to add a definition and development standards for miniature golf and permit the use in the General Commercial and Entry Corridor Commercial zones.

Jill, city planning staff, told the council the planning commission held a public hearing April 7 and recommended the change. She said the amendment defines miniature golf as “a recreational facility consisting of landscaped courts with a series of putting holes designed for play using golf putters and golf balls designed for miniature golf,” and would allow accessory uses such as a snack bar or seating. The staff recommended standards for parking, setbacks, landscaping, lighting, noise containment and screening.

The ordinance sets parking at 1.5 spaces per hole in the General Commercial zone and 2 spaces per hole in the Entry Corridor zone. It also requires setbacks consistent with the underlying zone, street-front landscaping, shielded lighting directed away from adjacent properties, and an 8-foot sight‑obscuring (screened) fence where the use borders residential property. Hours were defined so the last round is admitted at 9 p.m., with all activities ending and lights off by 10 p.m.

Councilmember Wesley moved the ordinance as drafted and read the proposed definition and standards into the record. After brief discussion to correct an earlier exhibit misprint on parking ratios and to clarify that balls should be “golf balls designed for miniature golf,” the motion was seconded and carried on a roll call in favor.

Supporters noted the use would provide a family‑friendly activity and an additional draw for children after school; at least two nearby residents who commented to the planning commission expressed support while asking for adequate fencing. Councilmembers said the 8‑foot sight‑obscuring requirement and the lighting and noise standards are intended to protect adjacent residential areas.

The ordinance amends multiple sections of the municipal code to add the definition, update the allowed use table, and establish supplementary development standards. The planning commission and staff recommendations are part of the administrative record. The council did not modify the ordinance’s stated hours or the 8‑foot fence requirement before voting.

The council’s adoption concludes local legislative review of this code change; implementation will follow through staff review of site plans and permits for any future miniature golf proposals.