PCP 04-05-2006 - Laserfiche WebLink

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The proposed amendment would allow the front porch to extend into the front setback up to 25 percent of the existing setback between the front lot line and the dwelling. For example, if the dwelling is 30 feet from the front lot line, the porch could encroach up to 7.5 feet into the front yard (30 feet * .25 = 7.5 . feet). However, no porch could be eloser than 20 feet to the front lot line without a variance. While there may be a handful of properties that this amendment does not cover, this ordinance proposal provides a consistent front porch encroachment standard for most properties in the City. Furthermore, this ordinance amendment cxpands the front porch flexibility to more residential properties in the City while protecting the current privileges of property owners. Under the existing ordinance language, dwellings that are 40 fcet from the front lot line can construct a front porch up to 30 feet from the front lot line. This new ordinance language preserves the ability of those dwelling (40 feet * .25 = 10 foot front porch encroachment). Discussion Points There are three remaining issues that need to be resolved regarding this proposal: 1. Should lots redeveloped after the adoption of this Ordinance be requircd to meet the full 40 foot setback, including the front porch? 2. Should lots that were vacant before the adoption of this Ordinance be required to meet the full 40 foot setback, including the front porch? 3. Currently, up to 35 percent of the fa~ade of the covered porch may be occupied by columns, spindles, or railings. Solid walls (even partial) are prohibited. Should glass be allowed to be a part of the 35 percent of the fa~ade that may be covered? If the covered porch is required to be set back farther from the front lot line with a redeveloped structure, it may be viewed as a penalty to rebuild a dwelling ifthe porch has to be farther back from the . front lot line than what would have been allowed had the old structure remained. However, it is always a goal to reduce the number of non-conforming structures where feasible. The existing covered porch ordinance does not distinguish between developed, redeveloped, or vacant lots. Currently, any residential lot may have a front porch as close as 30 feet to the front lot line. The question regarding glass was brought up by the Building Official for clarification. Action Requested Staffrecommcnds approving the zoning ordinance amendment subject to resolving the three discussion points, Attachments 3D-I Proposed Covered Front Porch Amcndment with Marked Changes 3D-2 Proposed Covered Front Porch Amendment 3D-3 Front Porch Diagram City of Arden Hills Planning Commission Meetingfor April 5. 2006 \\Metro-inet.us\ardenhills\Planning\Planning Cases\2006\06-012 Front Porch Ordinance Amendment (PENDlNG)\03 1606 - PC report _ Front Porch . EncroachmenLdoc Page 2 of2