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Commission discusses 25-foot hard-surface setback, camper parking and long-driveway impacts
Summary
The Chair proposed requiring the first 25 feet of driveway to be hard-surfaced while allowing milled asphalt beyond that; commissioners debated how the rule would affect existing gravel driveways, camper parking and long driveways, and whether it should apply only to new construction.
Chair proposed a local standard to preserve sidewalks and streets: "Require it at least a 25 foot," he said, explaining the first 25 feet from the property line should be hard surfaced while milled asphalt could be allowed beyond that point.
Commissioners discussed practical consequences for homeowners: many older lots lack a 25-foot setback, and requiring concrete for long driveways could be costly. A commissioner asked whether camper parking or adding a garage would trigger the requirement; staff clarified that if a change required a building permit, the permit would enforce the surface rules for the setback area.
The commission discussed applying the standard to new construction primarily and allowing existing gravel driveways to be maintained if historical aerial imagery and GIS establish prior gravel use. Members also suggested tailoring rules for acreage or rural zoning where long driveways are common. No vote was taken; staff will draft ordinance language that addresses the 25-foot setback, new construction, and special considerations for long driveways and rural parcels.
