Laserfiche WebLink
height for accessory structures in the R -2 District. The applicant has stated that the <br />current uneven elevation of the site would be corrected to the extent that the height of the <br />proposed garage would not exceed 15 feet. <br />2. Flood Plain, Wetlands, and Easements <br />The proposed addition is outside of any flood plains, wetlands, or easements. <br />3. Additional Review <br />This application may require Rice Creek Watershed District approval prior to the issuance of <br />any building permits. If the site plan review is approved, a condition has been added <br />requiring RCWD review prior to the issuance of building permits. <br />Site Plan Review Evaluation Criteria <br />The Zoning Code allows for a property owner to construct a single accessory structure, not to <br />exceed 1,458 square feet in unusual circumstances, if approved through a Site Plan Review; <br />however, the Code does not define unusual circumstance, nor does it specifically identify <br />criteria for evaluating a site plan for the purpose of granting approval of a larger accessory <br />structure. The approval is largely left up to the discretion of the Planning Commission and <br />City Council. The purpose of the site plan review process is to ensure a higher quality project <br />than could be achieved by following the letter of the Zoning Code. In the case of this <br />application, the proposed garage is 903 square feet. The property owners could fit two <br />accessory structures up to 728 square feet each on their property, which would likely have <br />more of a visual impact than this single structure. <br />The Code regulates that the exterior finish must be compatible with the existing structure and <br />the neighborhood. The applicant has indicated that the exterior of the proposed garage will <br />match the color and material of the existing principal structure. <br />Findings of Fact <br />Staff offers the following sixteen findings of fact for review: <br />1. The lot meets all other minimum requirements of the R -2 Zone. <br />2. The existing dwelling does not encroach on any setbacks. <br />3. The existing garage encroaches five feet into the side yard setback. <br />4. A site plan review is required for the detached accessory structure. <br />5. Garages and accessory structures are permitted within the R -2 Zone. <br />City of Arden Hills <br />Planning Commission Meeting for July 6, 2011 <br />IlAhdocsl lahlAHdatalPlanning \Planning CasesI2011111 -015 - 3759 New Brighton Road - Site Plan Review - (Pending )IPC Report.docx <br />Page 4 of 7 <br />