HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021/11/03 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - Planning Commission - Regular Planning commission meeting
November 3, 2021
6:00 p.m.
If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call Sean Walther at 952.924.2574 or the
administration department at 952.924.2525.
Planning commission
The St. Louis Park Planning Commission is meeting in person at St. Louis Park City Hall, 5005
Minnetonka Blvd. in accordance with the most recent COVID-19 guidelines. Some members of
the planning commission may participate by electronic devise or telephone rather than by
being personally present at the meeting.
Members of the public can attend the planning commission meeting in person or watch the
meeting by webstream at bit.ly/watchslppc and on local cable (Comcast SD channel 17 and
HD channel 859). Visit bit.ly/slppcagendas to view the agenda and reports.
Members of the public who want to address the planning commission during the hearing(s) on
the regular meeting agenda may attend the meeting in person or call the number noted below
next to the corresponding item. Call when the meeting starts at 6:00 p.m. and follow
instructions provided. Comments will be taken during the public hearing in the order they are
received and must relate to the item being discussed on the agenda.
Agenda
1. Call to order – roll call
2. Approval of minutes – October 6, 2021
3. Hearings
3a. Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
Applicant: City of St. Louis Park
Case No.: 21-31-ZA
Public hearing phone number: 952.562.2887
4. Other Business
5. Communications
6. Adjournment
Future scheduled meeting/event dates:
November 17, 2021 – planning commission regular meeting
December 8, 2021 – planning commission regular meeting
December 15, 2021 – planning commission regular meeting
January 5, 2022 – planning commission regular meeting
1
Planning commission meeting
November 3, 2021
STUDY SESION
1. Solar energy systems
2. Zoning ordinance amendment pertaining to daycares
2
Planning commission
October 6, 2021
6:00 p.m.
If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call Sean Walther in the administration
department at 952.924.2525.
Planning commission
Members present: Jim Beneke, Matt Eckholm, Sam Tift, Tom Weber, Joffrey Wilson
Members absent: Jessica Kraft
Staff present: Jacquelyn Kramer, Sean Walther
1. Call to order – roll call
2. Approval of minutes
2a. August 18, 2021, September 1, 2021, and September 22, 2021
Commissioner Beneke made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Wilson to approve
the August 18, 2021, September 1, 2021, and September 22, 2021 minutes as
presented. The motion passed.
3. Hearings
3a. Proposed development of 9808 and 9920 Wayzata Blvd.
Applicant: ESG Architects, on behalf of Bigos Management
Case No: 21-33-CP, 21-34-S, 21-35-PUD
Ms. Kramer presented the report.
Commissioner Wilson asked if there is anything that can be done to mitigate challenges
of views for those already living in the area. Ms. Kramer stated any building on the site
would potentially impact views. She noted the site plan has a large western setback to
accommodate a driveway, which would mitigate some of the concern regarding lost
views.
Commissioner Weber asked if there are two levels of parking but there is no ramp. Ms.
Kramer stated one portion of the parking goes underground and the other is on the
ground floor of the building. The two parking levels are not connected and each has one
access point.
Commissioner Weber asked if the current developers are those that worked on the
previous project. Ms. Kramer stated the property owner is the same and the civil
engineer is the same, however, there is a new developer and architect.
Commissioner Weber asked what is just north of the lot. Ms. Kramer stated currently
there are parking ramps and commercial offices. She added there is no public pedestrian
connection.
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Commissioner Weber asked about the bus route on Shelard Parkway and if there is
sidewalk accessibility to get to that bus line. Ms. Kramer stated it is not a complete
sidewalk connection at this time. Mr. Walther added that bike lanes had been added
there recently.
Chair Eckholm asked about the changes in massing vs. the previous proposal. Ms.
Kramer stated there is much less surface parking, the building is a story shorter, and
most of the parking is now underground. She added it is the same proposed use to the
previous proposal.
Chair Eckholm added he appreciates the hidden parking included in the development.
Commissioner Beneke asked about the affordability mix between one-, two- and three-
bedroom units and if there is any parkland in that part of the city. Ms. Kramer stated for
the city policy requires the affordable unit mix must be similar to the unit mix in the
building overall. She added she does not have the precise unit mix of affordable units.
She noted that the area is served by Shelard Park. No additional parks are are planned
or proposed in the area in the comprehensive plan, so that is why staff recommends
park and trail dedication fees instead of land dedication.
Adam Newman, Bigos Development, stated the development team really likes this
location, noting their offices are nearby. He stated collaborating with the owner and
building on the past design will make for a successful project in this area.
Chair Eckholm opened the public hearing.
There were no speakers.
Chair Eckholm closed the public hearing.
Commissioner Tift stated he is impressed with the design of the project and seems to
exceed the city’s standards for affordable units.
Commissioner Wilson agreed and encouraged the developers, as the project advances
that they consider economic impacts to others, as well as who is hired and training and
development of workforce. He added he likes what he has seen here.
Chair Eckholm thanked the team, adding the proposal reflects the city’s values of
affordable housing, the parking and best uses of the area. He stated he will support this.
Commissioner Weber made a motion, seconded by Commissioner Wilson, to approve
the comprehensive plan amendment, the preliminary and final plat, and the PUD
amendment ordinance subject to conditions recommended by staff. The motion passed.
4. Other Business - none
4
5. Communications
Mr. Walther stated Commissioner Dagane has resigned his position and his role will be
filled as soon as possible by city council.
The October 20 meeting is cancelled. The next meeting is November 3, where the
parking ordinance revisions the commission has reviewed in study sessions will be
discussed.
Mr. Walther stated last week the 10 West End office tower held a grand opening and
they are 60% leased. They are already looking ahead to the next phase, 20 West End.
6. Adjournment – 6:30 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Sean Walther, liaison Matt Eckholm, chair member
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6
Planning commission:: Regular meeting
Meeting date: November 3, 2021
Agenda item: 3a
3a Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
Case Number: 21-31-ZA
Applicant: City of St. Louis Park
Recommended
motions:
Chair to open the public hearing, take testimony, and close the public
hearing.
Motion to recommend approval of the zoning text amendment
pertaining to off-street parking.
Summary of request: Section 36-361 regulates off-street parking, paved areas and loading
spaces. The purpose of the parking requirements, as stated in the code, is to prevent
congestion on public rights-of-way for the safety and welfare of the public. The regulations are
created through analysis of the associated land use intensity, duration, time and style and
result in design requirements and standards for such facilities.
The purpose of this set of amendments is to recalibrate the city’s minimum parking
requirements for certain uses and areas of the city. Essentially, city staff reviewed areas to
reduce off-street parking requirements to support efficient, sustainable and affordable growth.
Parking is expensive and has many indirect costs. These changes can help reduce costs for
housing and businesses, reduce environmental impacts and make better use of land. It is one
component of implementing the goals expressed in the St. Louis Park 2040 comprehensive
plan, including climate action, inclusionary housing, race equity, livability, health and mobility.
Background: Based on the council approved planning commission work plan, in the second
quarter of 2021 staff undertook research to update the city’s minimum parking requirements.
On August 4, 2021, staff presented our research and the areas we identified as needing updates
to the planning commission. Staff then drafted a zoning ordinance incorporating
commissioners’ comments and submitted the ordinance to planning commission for review on
September 1, 2021. Staff revised the ordinance to incorporate additional comments from the
commission into the ordinance attached to this staff report. Included in the changes are some
text amendments that do not change any policies and simply clarify and update outdated
references.
Summary of proposed changes in the ordinance (listed in the order they appear):
1. Clarify language regarding the zoning administrator in the zoning code.
2. Amend certain land use descriptions
a. Rename elderly housing to age-restricted housing and change the age from 60 to
55 and over.
b. Add coffee shop to the descriptions list.
c. Significantly reduce parking requirements for accessory outdoor seating uses in
the C-1, C-2, O, BP, MX-1, MX-2, and PUD 10 zoning district.
d. Add two subcategories of restaurants: sit-down and fast food. Revise the general
restaurant description to include outdoor seating as integral to the principal use,
rather than considering it to be accessory.
3. Table 36-361(a)
a. Revise the format of the minimum number of stalls table [Table 361(a)]. 7
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
b. Revise the formulas for determining the required quantity of parking stalls for
multi-family residential uses.
c. Change the name of elderly housing to age-restricted housing; change the
description from 60 and older to 55 and older; no change to the parking formula
for age-restricted housing.
d. Add outdoor seating as an accessory use and reduce the amount of parking
required for outdoor seating.
e. Divide restaurant uses into two subcategories: sit-down restaurants have the
same parking requirement as the current code; fast food restaurants have a
reduced parking requirement.
f. Add taproom and microdistillery cocktail room parking requirements to the
table.
4. Table 36-361(b): Removed “proposed” from header and correct typographical errors.
5. Add language allowing city council to revise parking requirements based on verifiable
information as part of applications for conditional use permits or planned unit
developments.
6. Add four new categories of transit parking reductions and revised existing language of
parking reductions section based on the type and level of transit service in close
proximity to a site or use, including residential uses.
7. Electric vehicle supply equipment (EVSE) requirements
a. Increase the number and level of required EVSE for all uses.
b. Clarify general requirements.
8. Clarify language regarding what type of activity causes bicycle parking requirements to
be applied.
9. Clarify procedural language regarding shared parking requirements.
Next steps: If the planning commission recommends approval, the ordinance will be considered
by the council on November 15, 2021.
Supporting documents: Draft ordinance, August 4 staff report, August 4 meeting minutes,
September 1 staff report, September 1 meeting minutes
Prepared by: Jacquelyn Kramer, associate planner
Reviewed by: Sean Walther, planning manager
8
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
DRAFT
Ordinance No. ___-21
Ordinance regarding parking requirements
The City of St. Louis Park does ordain:
Whereas, the planning commission conducted a public hearing on November 3, 2021 on
the ordinance, and
Whereas, the City Council has considered the advice and recommendation of the planning
commission (case no. 21-31-ZA), and
Now, therefore be it resolved that the following amendments shall be made to Chapter
36 of the City Code by adding underscored text and deleting strikethrough text. Section breaks
are represented by ***.
Section 1. Section 36-38 Enforcement.
***
(b) Enforcing officer. The planning and zoning supervisor is appointed the zoning
administrator who shall enforce this chapter under the direction and control of the
community development zoning administrator’s supervisor, department director and city
manager.
(a) Residential uses. The following are typical of the residential uses referred to in this
chapter.
***
(5) Elderly Age-restricted housing means multiple-family dwellings where a minimum of
60 percent of the units are occupied by single persons at least 6055 years of age or by
couples with one or both being at least 6055 years of age.
***
(d) Commercial uses. The following are typical of the commercial uses referred to in this
chapter.
***
(9) Coffee shop means an establishment that primarily sells coffee and coffee-related
accessories. They may also sell other refreshment items such as donuts, bagels, muffins,
cakes, sandwiches, wraps, salads, and other hot and cold beverages. Limited indoor
seating is generally provided for patrons, but table service is not provided.
***
(3335) Restaurant means an establishment whose principal business is the sale of food
and beverages which are prepared and served in individual portions in a ready-to-
consume state for consumption on site. This use is often found in conjunction with bars,
hotels and food service. It is preferably located on major thoroughfares with no access to
residential streets. Characteristics include late hours of operation, refuse, high car and
truck traffic generation, and cooking odors. Indoor and outdoor seating for restaurants is
considered part of the principal use. A food service or deli is not considered to be a
9
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
restaurant if seating is provided for ten or fewer persons. Restaurant uses are divided into
the following subcategories:
a. Restaurant, sit-down: Sit-down eating establishments that may allow or require
reservations. Patrons commonly wait to be seated, are served by wait staff, order
from a menu, and pay after the meal. Lounge or bar facilities may be accessory
uses.
b. Restaurant, fast-food with or without drive-through window: This restaurant type
features large carry-out clientele, long hours of service, and high turnover rate for
eat-in customers (around 30 minutes). There is no or limited table service, and
customers typically order from a menu board and pay before receiving the meal.
***
Section 36-193 (e) Accessory uses. The following uses shall be permitted accessory uses
in a C-1 district:
***
(5) Outdoor seating and service of food and beverages is permitted as an accessory
use with the following conditions:
***
d. Additional parking will not be required if the outdoor seating area does not
exceed 500 square feet or ten percent of the gross floor area of the principal use,
whichever is less. Parking will be required at the same rate as the principle use for
that portion of outdoor seating area in excess of 500 square feet or ten percent of
the gross building area, whichever is less.
***
Section 36-194(e) Accessory uses. The following uses shall be permitted accessory uses in
any C-2 district:
***
(7) Outdoor seating and service of food and beverages is permitted as an accessory
use if:
d. Additional parking will not be required if the outdoor seating area does not
exceed 500 square feet or ten percent of the gross floor area of the principal use,
whichever is less. Parking will be required at the same rate as the principal use for
that portion of outdoor seating area in excess of 500 square feet or ten percent of
the gross building area, whichever is less.
***
Section 36-223(e) Accessory uses. Within any O district, the following uses shall be
permitted accessory uses:
***
(5) Outdoor seating and service of food and beverages is permitted as an accessory
use if:
d. Additional parking will not be required if the outdoor seating area does not
exceed 500 square feet or ten percent of the gross floor area of the principal use,
whichever is less. Parking will be required at the same rate as the principle use for
that portion of outdoor seating area in excess of 500 square feet or ten percent of
the gross building area, whichever is less.
***
Section 36-233(e) Accessory uses. Within any BP district, the following shall be permitted
accessory uses, subject to any required conditions:
10
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
***
(4) Outdoor seating and service of food and beverages is permitted as an accessory
use with the following conditions:
***
d. Additional parking will not be required if the outdoor seating area does not
exceed 500 square feet or ten percent of the gross floor area of the principal use,
whichever is less. Parking will be required at the same rate as the principal use for
that portion of outdoor seating area in excess of 500 square feet or ten percent of
the gross building area, whichever is less.
***
Section 36-264(f) Accessory uses. The following uses shall be permitted accessory uses in
any MX-1 district.
***
(3) Outdoor seating and service of food and beverage, subject to the following
conditions:
***
d. Additional parking will not be required if the outdoor seating area does
not exceed 500 square feet or ten percent of the gross floor area of the
principal use, whichever is less. Parking will be required at the same rate
as the principal use for that portion of outdoor seating area in excess of
500 square feet or ten percent of the gross building area, whichever is less.
***
Section 36-265(f) Accessory uses. The following uses shall be permitted accessory uses in
the MX-2 district when meeting the standards below:
***
(5) Outdoor seating and service of food and beverages.
***
d. Additional parking will not be required if the outdoor seating area does not
exceed 500 square feet or ten percent of the gross floor area of the principal use,
whichever is less. Parking will be required at the same rate as the principal use for
that portion of outdoor seating area in excess of 500 square feet or ten percent of
the gross building area, whichever is less.
***
Section 36-268-PUD 10 (c) Accessory uses. The following uses shall be permitted
accessory uses in PUD 10:
***
(5) Outdoor seating and service of food and beverages with the following conditions:
***
c. Additional parking will not be required if the outdoor seating area does not
exceed 500 square feet or ten percent of the gross floor area of the principal use,
whichever is less. Parking will be required at the same rate as the principal use for
that portion of outdoor seating area in excess of 500 square feet or ten percent of
the gross building area, whichever is less.
***
11
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
Table 36-361 (a)
Use Number of Parking Spaces
Residential
Single family dwelling Two spaces per dwelling unit. Additional spaces are not required for
a boarder or an accessory dwelling unit.
Cluster housing Two spaces per dwelling unit. 10% of the required parking shall be
permitted for use as guest parking.
Two family Two spaces per dwelling unit. Additional spaces are not required for
a boarder or an accessory dwelling unit.
Multi-family One space per bedroom. Per unit:
Studio 1 space
One bedroom 1 space
Two bedroom 1.5 spaces
Three bedroom 2 spaces
Four bedroom 2 spaces
An additional 5% of the required parking shall be permitted
provided for use as guest parking. Multi-family residential
developments shall not be eligible for a transit or Planned Unit
Development reduction in required parking.
Elderly Age-restricted
housing
One space per dwelling unit, except where verifiable information
indicates a reduced long-term parking demand.
Human Care Uses
Adult day care Two spaces per each five program participants licensed by state.
Funeral home One space per each 250 sq. ft. s.f. floor area, plus one space for
every five seats.
Group day care,
nursery school
One space per each two employees, plus one per each 10 program
participants based on total participant capacity of the facility.
Group homes Two spaces per each five beds.
Hospitals One space per each 350 sq ft. floor area.
Medical or dental
office
For structures less than 2,500 sq. ft. floor area, one space per each
250 sq. ft. floor area.
For structures greater than 2,500 sq. ft. floor area, one space per
each 200 sq. ft. floor area.
Nursing home Five spaces, plus one space per each five beds.
Institutional Uses
Community center Parking requirement shall be based upon uses within the building.
Libraries, museums,
art
One space per each 300 sq. ft. floor area in principal structure.
Golf Two spaces per golf hole.
Archery or golf range One space per each target or tee.
Mini golf One and one-half spaces per hole.
Police stations One space per each 1000 sq. ft. floor area.
12
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
Places of public
assembly or religious
institutions
One space per each three seats, plus one space per each 25 sq. ft. of
dining or bar area.
A single seat on a bench is equal to 28” inches. 50% of the
requirement may be provided off site at another property within
750’ feet of entrance.
Elementary and junior
high schools
Two spaces per each classroom.
High school and post-
secondary schools
One space per each four students based on building capacity, plus
one space for each two classrooms.
Commercial Uses
Animal hospitals and
kennels
One space per each 200 sq. ft. floor area, but not fewer than five
spaces.
Bank One space per each 250 sq. ft. floor area
Bed and breakfast Two spaces, plus one space per each room for rent.
Catering One space per each 500 sq. ft. floor area.
Coffee shop One space per each 200 sq. ft. floor area.
Convention or exhibit
halls
One space per each three seats based on design capacity. A single
seat on a bench is equal to 28” inches.
Food service or
bakeries
One space per 25 sq. ft. customer floor area.
Hotel / Motel /
Rooming house
One and one-half spaces per each dwelling unit, guestroom, or hotel
room.
Motor fuel station Three spaces. Multiple uses shall be calculated separately.
Motor vehicle service Four spaces per each service bay.
Offices or medical and
dental labs
Less than 50,000 sq. ft. floor area: one space per each 250 sq. ft.
floor area.
Between 50,000 sq. ft. floor area and 200,000 sq. ft. floor area: one
space per each 275 sq. ft. floor area.
Between 200,000 sq. ft. floor area and 400,000 sq. ft. floor area: one
space per each 300 sq. ft. floor area.
Greater than 400,000 sq. ft. floor area: one space per each 325 sq.
ft. floor area.
Open sales or rental
lots
One space per each 2,500 sq. ft. customer service area.
Outdoor seating as an
accessory use
Parking will be required at the same rate as the principal use for
that portion of the outdoor seating area that exceeds the lesser of
the total number of provided indoor seats or 25% of total gross floor
area of the principal use.
Bowling alley One space per each bowling lane.
Pool hall or video
arcade
One space per each 25 sq. ft. customer area.
Skating rink or auction
house
50 spaces, plus one space for each 100 sq. ft. of floor area in excess
of 2,000 sq. ft.
Sport/health club,
studio, pool
One space per each 200 sq. ft. non-court area.
Two spaces per tennis/racquetball court.
One space per each 50 sq. ft. deck area for a swimming pool.
13
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
Theatre, auditorium,
assembly halls
One space per each four seats. A single seat on a bench is equal to
28” inches.
Restaurants, sit-down One space per each 60 sq. ft. floor area.
Restaurants, fast food One space per each 100 sq. ft. floor area.
Taproom or
microdistillery cocktail
room
One space per each 100 sq. ft. floor area.
Retail store, grocery,
and service
establishment where >
25% gross floor area is
customer area
Minimum: One space per each 250 sq. ft. floor area.
Maximum: One space per each 150 sq. ft. floor area.
Large Merchandise
Retail
One space per each 500 sq. ft. floor area.
Retail where < 25%
gross floor area is
customer area
One space per each 100 sq. ft. of customer service area.
Shopping centers One space per each 250 sq. ft. floor area.
Grocery stores and theaters shall be calculated separately.
Restaurants and food service shall be calculated separately unless
the shopping center exceeds 20,000 sq. ft. in size and no wait-staff is
present, and the use constitutes less than 25% of the shopping
center’s floor area.
Maximum: One space per each 150 sq. ft. floor area.
Studios One space per each 400 sq. ft. floor area.
Post office customer
service
One space per each 25 sq. ft. customer service area for the first 600
sq. ft., plus one per each 180 sq. ft. thereafter.
Industrial Uses
Manufacturing,
fabrication, or
processing
Five spaces plus one per each 500 sq. ft. floor area.
Outdoor storage One space per each 20,000 sq. ft. of area devoted to outdoor
storage.
Post office or parcel
delivery service
10 spaces, plus one space per each 500 sq. ft. floor area devoted to
office, processing, or service, plus one space for each vehicle kept
on the premises.
Self-storage facility One space per each fifty storage compartments.
Showrooms One space per each 500 sq. ft. floor area.
Warehouse One space per each 1,500 sq. ft. floor area.
***
Table 36-361(b)
Land Use Category Proposed Required Off-Street
Minimum
Proposed Required Off-
Street Maximum 14
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
Residential
Multifamily 1 space/dwelling unit 2 spaces/dwelling unit
Elderly Housing 1 space/dwelling unit 2 spaces/dwelling unit
Human Care Uses
Adult day care 1 space/employee on largest shift
OR 1 space/500 sq. ft. of GFA,
whichever is largest
1 space/employee on
largest shift OR 1 space/200
sq. ft. of GFA, whichever is
largest
Group day care, nursery
school
1 space/employee on largest shift
OR 1 space per 500 sq. ft. of GFA,
whichever is largest
1 space/employee on
largest shift OR 1 space per
200 sq. ft. of GFA,
whichever is largest
Group homes 1 space/4 beds 1 space per 2 beds
Medical or dental office 1 space/500 sq. ft. FA in excess of
4,000 sq. ft. (min. 4 spaces)
1 space/200 sq. ft. FA
Nursing home 1 space/employee on largest shift
+1 space/6 beds
1 space/employee on
largest shift plus 1 space/ 3
beds
Institutional Uses
Community center Parking requirement based on uses
within the building.
Parking requirement based
on uses within the building
Libraries, museums, art 1 space/450 sq. ft. floor area in
principal structure.
1 space/ each 300 sq. ft.
floor area in principal
structure.
High school and post-
secondary schools
1 space/classroom + 1 space per 5
students of legal driving age based
on the maximum number of
students attending classes at any
one time
2 spaces/ classroom + 1
space per 3 students of
legal driving age based on
the maximum number of
students attending classes
at any one (1) time
Commercial Uses
Bank 1 space/250 sq. ft. floor area 1 space/200 sq. ft. floor
area
Catering 1 space/500 sq. ft. floor area. 1 space/500 sq. ft. floor
area.
Coffee Shop 1 space/200 sq. ft. floor area. 1 space/100 sq. ft. floor
area.
Food Service or Bakeries 1 space/300 sq. ft. floor area. 1 space /150 sq. ft. floor
area
Hotel 1 space/3 guest rooms + parking
equal to 10% of the capacity of
persons for an affiliated use on site
(i.e., dining or meeting rooms)
1 space/guest room +
parking equal to 30% of the
capacity of persons for an
affiliated use on site (i.e.,
dining or meeting rooms)
15
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
Offices or medical and
dental labs
1 space/500 sq. ft. FA in excess of
4,000 sq. ft.
1 space/250 sq. ft. FA
Bowling alley 1 space/250 sq. ft. FA 1 space/100 sq. ft. FA
Pool hall or video arcade 1 space/250 sq. ft. FA 1 space/100 sq. ft. FA
Sport/health club, studio,
pool
1 space/500 sq. ft. FA in excess of
4,000 sq. ft. (minimum of 4 spaces)
1 space/ 200 sq. ft. FA
Theatre, auditorium,
assembly halls
1 space/4 attendees 1.5 spaces/4 attendees
Restaurants - fast casual 1 space/300 sq. ft. FA 1 space/75 sq. ft. of FA
Restaurants - standard sit
down
1 space/300 sq. ft. FA 1 space/75 sq. ft. of FA
Brewery/Food Hall 1 space/150 sq. ft. FA 1 space/75 sq. ft. FA
Retail store, grocery, and
service establishment
where > 25% gross floor
area is customer area
1 space/400 sq. ft. floor area. 1 space/400 sq. ft. FA
Retail where < 25% gross
floor area is customer area
1 space/250 sq. ft. floor area. 1 space/150 sq. ft. FA
Studios 1 space per 400 sq. ft. FA 1 sapce space per 200 sq. ft.
FA
Industrial Uses
Manufacturing,
fabrication, or processing
1 space/ employee on largest shift
or 1 space/1,200 sq. ft. FA
whichever is greater +1
space/vehicle normally stored or
parked on the site
1 space/500 sq. ft. FA +1
space/ vehicle normally
stored or parked on the site
Showrooms 1 space/500 sq. ft. 1 space/200 sq. ft.
Warehouse 1 space/2 employees on largest
shift or 1 space/ 1,500 sq. ft. FA
whichever is greater
1 space/500 sq. ft. FA
(d) The requirements may be revised upward or downward by the City Council as part of an
application for a Conditional Use Permit or Planned Unit Development based on verifiable
information pertaining to parking.
(d)(e) Reductions. The following off-street parking reductions may be utilized jointly or
separately except as indicated otherwise:
(1) Transit deductions. Only one of the following deductions may apply:
a. Parking requirements may be reduced based on the proximity to a light
rail station (LRT).
1. 30 percent reduction when the use is located up to ¼ mile from
the LRT station.
2. 20 percent reduction when the use is located up to ½ mile from the
LRT station.
16
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
b. High frequency bus service. Parking may be reduced by up to 15 percent
for any parcel located within one-quarter mile of high-bus transit with
service at least every 15 minutes. The service must operate between 6
a.m. and 7 p.m. on weekdays and 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. on Saturdays.
c. Regular bus service. Parking may be reduced by up to 10 percent for any
parcel located within one-quarter of a mile of a transit stop. To qualify,
the transit stop must be served by regular bus transit service on all days
of the week and adequate pedestrian access must be available between
the transit stop and the parcel. Regular transit service shall operate at
least twice hourly between 7:30 a.m. and 6:30 p.m. on weekdays and
once hourly after 6:30 p.m. Regular transit service shall operate on
Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.
***
Section 36-361(e)(f)(2) Number of Required Electric Vehicle Charging Stations
a. All new or reconstructed parking structures or lots with 14 or fewer parking
spaces shall be allowed, but not required, to install EVSE.
b. All new or reconstructed parking structures or lots with at least 15 but no more
than 49 spaces, or expanded parking structures or lots that result in a parking lot
with 15 to 49 parking spaces, shall install EVSE as required below.
1. Multiple-family residential land uses shall have 510% of required residential
parking as Level 1 stations for resident parking served by EVCSs with at least
5% as Level 2 stations. At least one handicapped accessible parking space
shall have access to an EVCS.
2. Non-residential land uses with parking spaces available for use by the
general public shall have one two Level 2 stations. At least one handicapped
accessible parking space shall have access to an EVCS.
c. All new or reconstructed parking structures or lots with at least 50 parking spaces,
or expanded parking structures or lots that result in a parking lot with 50 or more
parking spaces, shall install EVSE as required below.
1. Multiple-family residential land uses shall have 10% of required residential
parking as Level 12 stations for resident parking, and one Level 2 station for
guest parking. At least one handicapped accessible parking space shall have
access to an EVCS.
2. Non-residential land uses with parking spaces available for use by the
general public shall have at least 15% of required parking as Level 2 stations
with a minimum of two spaces served by Level 2 charging, with at least one
station adjacent to an accessible parking space. In non-residential zoned
districts, DC charging stations may be installed to satisfy the EVCS
requirements described above on a one-for-one basis.
d. Notwithstanding the requirements of subsections a above, all All new or
reconstructed motor fuel stations as defined in Section 36-142(d)(20) shall be
required to install at least one additional Level 2 charging station. A DC charging
station may be installed to meet this requirement.
e. In addition to the number of required EVCSs, the following accommodations shall
be required for the anticipated future growth in market demand for electric
vehicles:
17
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
1. Multiple-Family Residential Land Uses: all new, expanded and reconstructed
parking areas shall provide the electrical capacity necessary to
accommodate the future hardwire installation of Level 2 EVCSs for a
minimum of 1050% of required parking spaces.
2. Non-Residential Land Uses: all new, expanded and reconstructed parking
areas shall provide the electrical capacity necessary to accommodate the
future hardwire installation of Level 2 or DC EVCSs for a minimum of 1050%
of required parking spaces.
f. These requirements may be revised upward or downward by the City Council as
part of an application for a conditional use permit or planned unit development
based on verifiable information pertaining to parking.
***
Section 36-361(e)(f)(6) General Requirements for Multi-Family Residential and Non-
Residential Development Parking.
a. Accessible Spaces. A charging station will be considered accessible if it is located
adjacent to, and can serve, an accessible parking space as defined and required by
the ADA It is not necessary to designate the EVSE exclusively for the use of vehicles
parked in the accessible space.
b. EVSE – public use shall be subject to the following requirements:
1. The EVCSs shall be located in a manner that will be easily seen by the public for
informational and security purposes.
2. The EVCSs shall be located in desirable and convenient parking locations that
will serve as an incentive for the use of electric vehicles.
23. The EVCS must be operational during the normal business hours of the use(s)
that it serves. EVCS may be de-energized or otherwise restricted after normal
business hours of the use(s) it serves.
c. Lighting. Site lighting shall be provided where EVSE is installed, unless charging is
for daytime purposes only.
d. Equipment Design Standards.
1. Battery charging station outlets and connector devices shall be mounted to
comply with state code and must comply with all relevant Americans with
Disabilities Act (ADA) requirements. Equipment mounted on pedestals,
lighting posts, bollards, or other devices shall be designed and located as to not
impede pedestrian travel or create trip hazards on sidewalks.
2. Electric vehicle charging devices may be located adjacent to designated parking
spaces in a garage or parking lot as long as provided the devices do not
encroach into the required dimensions of the parking space (length, width, and
height clearances).
3. The design should be appropriate to the location and use. Facilities should be
able to be readily identified by electric vehicle users and blend into the
surrounding landscape/architecture for compatibility with the character and
use of the site.
4. EVCS pedestals shall be designed to minimize potential damage by accidents,
vandalism and to be safe for use in inclement weather.
e Usage Fees. The property owner may collect a service fee for the use of EVSE.
18
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
f. Maintenance. EVSE shall be maintained in all respects, including the functioning of
the equipment. A phone number or other contact information shall be provided
on the equipment for reporting problems with the equipment or access to it.
***
(f) Bicycle Parking. Bicycle parking is required to provide adequate and safe facilities for the
storage of bicycles, to encourage the use of bicycles as an alternative to motor vehicles, and to
provide bicycle access to employment, commercial and other destinations. All new, expanded,
or reconstructed parking structures or lots shall install bicycle parking as required below.
***
g. Shared Parking. Shared off-street parking facilities are allowed to can collectively provide
parking in any district for more than one structure or use, subject to the following conditions:
1. The uses must shall have their highest peak demand for parking at substantially
different times of the day or week, or an adequate amount of parking shall be
available for both uses during shared hours of peak demand. A parking plan shall
address the hours, size and mode of operation of the respective uses.
2. The minimum spaces required under a shared parking agreement shall be based on
the number of spaces required for the use that requires the most parking.
3. A shared parking agreement shall be filed with the city. The terms of the shared
parking agreement shall include, at a minimum:
a. The hours, size and a description of the operation of each of the tenants.
b. A dimensioned site plan showing the location and number of parking spaces.
c. A plan for remediating conflicts between tenants. The plan shall identify the
property owner or designee as being responsible for administering and enforcing
the agreement.
d. A statement acknowledging that the city may deny a proposed use or expansion
of an existing use if it deems the site does not have sufficient parking.
e. The plan shall be signed by the property owner.
Shared parking facilities shall be protected by an irrevocable covenant running with the
land and recorded with the county in a form approved by the city attorney. A certified
copy of the recorded document shall be provided to the Zoning Administrator within 60
days after approval of the agreement by the city council.
Section 4. This ordinance shall take effect 15 days after publication.
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the City Council December 4, 2021
Kim Keller, city manager Jake Spano, mayor
First reading November 15, 2021
Second reading December 4, 2021
Date of publication December 16, 2021
Date ordinance takes effect December 31, 2021
19
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment: off-street parking
Attest: Approved as to form and execution:
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Soren Mattick, city attorney
20
Planning commission: Study session
Meeting date: November 3, 2021
Study session item: 1
1 Solar energy systems
Recommended
motions:
No action is required at this time. The purpose of this report is to
provide an update of the proposed solar energy systems ordinance
and discuss next steps.
Summary of request: The purpose of the ordinance is to establish regulations specific to solar
energy systems. The ordinance also relocates the accessory structure regulations from the yard
encroachment section to the accessory structure regulations section of the zoning code.
Background: SolSmart is a national designation program recognizing cities, counties, and
regional organizations that foster the development of mature local solar markets. In May of
2021, the City of St. Louis Park improved its rating from a bronze to silver designation under
SolSmart. We achieved this designation by utilizing solar on public buildings, demonstrating
that we have a streamlined permitting process that does not hinder issuing permits for solar
energy systems, and for providing information and encouragement for solar energy systems.
To achieve the gold designation, the highest level, the city must explicitly state in its zoning
code that solar energy systems are permitted as accessory uses in each major land use district
and demonstrate that there are no significant regulatory barriers to installing them. Staff
drafted the proposed ordinance to meet the requirements for the gold designation. The
attached discussion summarizes each section of the proposed ordinance. Additionally, the
complete ordinance is attached for your review. Staff is particularly looking for feedback on the
following:
1. Should ground mounted solar energy systems be allowed in the front yard of multi-family,
commercial, industrial, and office properties?
2. The installation of solar energy systems may require the removal of trees or alteration of
landscaping plans approved by CUP or PUD. In order to keep the solar energy systems
approval process streamlined, should the city allow staff to administratively approved
changes to the approved landscaping plans?
3. Not related to solar energy systems but comes up because of the adjustments to the
accessory structure regulations; should the city continue to require a six-foot privacy fence
around a swimming pool when it is placed within 25 feet of the rear property line. The fence
is not required if it is more than 25 feet from the rear property line.
Staff seeks feedback from the planning commission on the proposed ordinance. Commissioners
are asked to familiarize themselves with the ordinance and prepare for a discussion on this
topic.
In addition to planning commission comments, staff sent the draft ordinance to the SolSmart
regional advisor, The Great Plains Institute, for review and comment.
Next Steps: Based on the discussion, and comments we receive from The Great Plains Institute,
staff will amend the proposed ordinance and initiate the formal public process.
Attachments: Discussion; proposed ordinance
Prepared by: Gary Morrison, zoning administrator
Reviewed by: Sean Walther, planning manager
21
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Solar energy systems
Discussion
Background: Staff intends to present at a high-level the main policy and regulatory changes
contained in the ordinance. Please review the complete ordinance to prepare for the
discussion. Staff is still refining the ordinance language and there may be some technical errors
to be corrected or other adjustments that still need to be made. Those will be completed prior
to scheduling the public hearing.
The intent of the ordinance is to adopt standards for solar energy systems. To properly regulate
these systems, adjustments had to be made to the accessory structure rules of the zoning
ordinance, which is why the ordinance starts out with some minor changes to the accessory
structures section. Additionally, the ordinance includes changes and corrections to other parts
of the code. They are noted in the summary below. Please refer to the draft ordinance for the
complete ordinance language.
Section 1 inserts various definitions relevant to solar energy systems. It also deletes the
ornamental structures definition.
Sections 2 and 3 delete the regulations pertaining to ornamental structures and accessory
structure yard encroachments. These regulations are moved to different parts of the zoning
code [see sections 7 and 8 of this ordinance].
Section 4 establishes a three-foot height exemption for solar energy systems attached to
buildings. This exemption is identical to the three-foot height exemption allowed for parapet
walls.
Section 5 allows solar energy systems as an accessory use in the park and open space zoning
district.
Section 6 corrects an unintentional change resulting from the adoption of the accessory
dwelling unit ordinance. The ADU ordinance unintentionally changed the yard definitions
applied to the accessory structure and off-street vehicle parking regulations.
Section 7 and 8 consolidate the accessory structures regulations deleted from another part of
the zoning code [see sections 2 and 3] into the accessory structures section of the city code.
This simplifies and clarifies the regulations pertaining to accessory structures, including solar
energy systems.
Section 9 proposes to require a zoning permit for detached decks. This gives the city the
opportunity to review the location before it is built to make sure it meets the required setbacks.
This is the same permit that is required for accessory buildings less than 200 sf in area.
Sections 10, 11, and 12 explicitly allow solar energy systems as an accessory use in the R-1
single-family residence district, the R-2 single-family residence district, and the R-3 two-family
residence district. The use is allowed as an accessory use provided the system is mounted to a
building.
22
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Solar energy systems
Section 13 inserts an illustration that is missing from the code. The ordinance references it, but
the illustration is not there.
Section 14-19 and 21-47 explicitly list solar energy systems as accessory uses in each zoning
district, including each planned unit development.
Section 20 explicitly allows solar energy systems as a principal use in the industrial park district.
The use is proposed to be “permitted with conditions.” This is an administrative approval
process with objective conditions required to be met before it can be approved by staff.
Section 48 lists solar energy systems as a permitted class 1 material for the exterior wall surface
of buildings.
Section 49 exempts solar energy systems from the rooftop screening requirements.
Section 50 creates a section of the code specific to solar energy systems. This section:
1. Establishes the purpose and findings for the solar energy systems regulations.
2. Requires a permit and establishes permit application submittal requirements.
3. Establishes performance standards applicable citywide for building mounted and
freestanding solar energy systems.
23
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Solar energy systems
DRAFT proposed amendment
Ordinance No. ___-21
Ordinance regarding Solar energy systems
The City of St. Louis Park does ordain:
Whereas, The comprehensive plan….
Whereas, the planning commission conducted a public hearing on _____ on the
ordinance, and
Whereas, the City Council has considered the advice and recommendation of the planning
commission (case no. _____), and
Now, therefore be it resolved that the following amendments shall be made to the City
Code:
Section 1. Definitions. Chapter 36, Section 4 of the St. Louis Park City Code is hereby
amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined text (place new
text in alphabetical order):
Ornamental structures are built or placed in the landscape for decorative or
horticultural purposes and are accessory to and detached from the principal structure.
They do not have solid walls or a solid roof. These include but are not limited to trellises,
arbors, arches, pergolas, gateways, flagpoles, fountains, birdbaths, birdhouses, and yard
sculptures. These do not include trees, shrubs or other vegetation
***
Solar energy system - building-integrated. A solar energy system that is an
integral part of a principal or accessory building, rather than a separate mechanical
device, replacing or substituting for an architectural or structural component of the
building. Building-integrated systems include but are not limited to active photovoltaic
or hot water systems that are contained within roofing materials, windows, walls,
skylights, and awnings, or passive systems that are designed to capture direct solar
heat.
Solar energy system - building-mounted. A solar energy system affixed to a
principal or accessory building.
Solar energy system - freestanding. A solar energy system with a supporting
framework that is placed on, or anchored in, the ground and that is independent of
any building or other structure. Garages, carports or similar structures that
incorporate building-integrated or building-mounted solar energy systems shall not be
classified as freestanding solar energy systems and shall instead be subject to
regulations governing accessory structures.
24
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Solar energy systems
Solar collector surface. Any part of a solar energy system that absorbs solar
energy for use in the system's transformation process. The collector surface does not
include frames, supports, and mounting hardware.
Solar energy. Radiant energy received from the sun that can be collected in the
form of heat or light by a solar collector.
Solar energy system. A device or structural design feature intended to provide for
collection, storage, and distribution of solar energy for heating or cooling, electricity
generating, or water heating.
Section 2. Yard encroachments. Chapter 36, Section 73(a) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to delete the following struck-out text (renumber accordingly):
(3) Ornamental structures that are a minimum of three feet from any lot line. Maximum 15
foot height limit except as allowed for flagpoles per Section 36-78.
(4) Ornamental structures within the three foot yard area up to six feet tall in the rear and
side yards and up to three and one-half feet tall in the front yard.
(5) Arbors, pergolas, arches, gateways or similar open structures over purposeful pedestrian
walkways that extend between properties, between front and back yard areas, or from
the public right-of-way to a house or garage. Maximum one such structure per lot line
with a maximum ten foot height and ten foot width within the required three foot yard
area.
Section 3. Yard encroachments. Chapter 36, Section 73 of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to delete the following struck-out text:
(d) Rear yard. The following shall not be encroachments on rear yard requirements provided
no permanent structure is placed in an easement without first obtaining approval of an
encroachment agreement:
(1) Detached outdoor picnic shelters, gazebos and recreational equipment that are a
minimum of three feet from the rear and side lot lines.
(2) Swimming pools, whirlpools, saunas and tennis courts provided they are a minimum of
five feet from the rear lot line, are enclosed by a privacy fence that screens the view
from neighboring properties, and any associated accessory structures such as the
required fence, decks, patios, and heating equipment meet all Code requirements
including subsections (a), (b), and (d) of this section, section 36-74 and section 36-162.
Section 4. Height limitations. Chapter 36, Section 78 of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(d) building integrated solar energy system extending not more than three feet above the
limiting height of the building.
Section 5. Park and open space district regulations. Chapter 36, Section 151(e) of the St.
Louis Park City Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(9) Solar energy systems.
Section 6. Residential district regulations - restrictions and performance standards.
Chapter 36, Section 162(b) of the St. Louis Park City Code is hereby amended delete the
following struck-out text and to add the following underlined text:
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Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Solar energy systems
(b) Definitions. For the purpose of subsections (d), and (e), and (f) of this section, and of
section 74 (fences) of this chapter, the listed terms are defined and illustrated as follows:
Section 7. Residential district regulations - restrictions and performance standards.
Chapter 36, Section 162(d)(1) of the St. Louis Park City Code is hereby amended to add the
following underlined text:
a. Accessory structures located in the rear and side yards shall be a minimum of three feet
from the lot line if over six feet in height.
Accessory structures that are located in the front yard and are over four feet in height
shall be located at least 15 feet from the lot line abutting the street opposite the front
face of the house, three feet from internal side lot lines, and in the case of a lot with
more than one street frontage, nine feet from all other lot lines abutting a street.
b. Arbors, pergolas, arches, gateways or similar open structures over purposeful pedestrian
walkways that extend between properties, between front and back yard areas, or from
the public right-of-way to a house or garage may be located up to the property line with
the following conditions:
1. No more than one such structure per lot line
2. The structure shall not exceed 10 feet in height and width and three feet in
depth.
Section 8. Residential district regulations - restrictions and performance standards.
Chapter 36, Section 163(d)(1) of the St. Louis Park City Code is hereby amended to add the
following underlined text:
h. Swimming pools, whirlpools, saunas and sport courts are permitted in the backyard and
side yards only and shall meet the following requirements:
1. They are a minimum of five feet from the rear lot line.
2. They meet the same side yards as required for the principal building.
3. A six-foot privacy fence shall be required to screen the portion of the structure
located within 25 feet of the rear lot line.
Section 9. Residential district regulations - restrictions and performance standards.
Chapter 36, Section 163(d)(7) of the St. Louis Park City Code is hereby amended to add the
following underlined text:
(7) Permit required. All accessory buildings (including accessory buildings 200 square feet or
less in area) and detached decks shall obtain a zoning or building permit prior to
installation and must be anchored in a manner approved by the city.
Section 10. R-1 single-family residence district. Chapter 36, Section 163(e) of the St. Louis
Park City Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(17) Solar energy systems with the condition that properties improved for residential
purposes are limited to building mounted systems only.
Section 11. R-2 single-family residence district. Chapter 36, Section 164(e) of the St. Louis
Park City Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(17) Solar energy systems with the condition that properties improved for residential
purposes are limited to building mounted systems only.
Section 12. R-3 two-family residence district. Chapter 36, Section 165(e) of the St. Louis
Park City Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(17) Solar energy systems with the condition that properties improved for residential
purposes are limited to building mounted systems only.
26
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Solar energy systems
Section 13. R-3 two-family residence district. Chapter 36, Section 165(f)(5) of the St. Louis
Park City Code is hereby amended to add the following diagram after the existing text:
Section 14. R-4 multiple-family residence district. Chapter 36, Section 166(e) of the St.
Louis Park City Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(16) Solar energy systems.
Section 15. R-C high-density multiple-family residence district. Chapter 36, Section 167(e)
of the St. Louis Park City Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(17) Solar energy systems.
Section 16. C-1 Neighborhood commercial district. Chapter 36, Section 193(e) of the St.
Louis Park City Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(7) Solar energy systems.
Section 17. C-2 General commercial district. Chapter 36, Section 194(e) of the St. Louis
Park City Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(10) Solar energy systems.
Section 18. O Office district. Chapter 36, Section 223(e) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(7) Solar energy systems.
Section 19. BP Business park district. Chapter 36, Section 233(e) of the St. Louis Park City
Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(9) Solar energy systems.
Section 20. Industrial park district regulations. Chapter 36, Section 243(c) of the St. Louis
Park City Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(14) freestanding solar energy system. The conditions are as follows:
a. lot coverage up to .9???
b. Soils shall be planted and maintained for the duration of operation in perennial,
pollinator-friendly vegetation to prevent erosion, manage run off, and improve
27
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Solar energy systems
soil. Vegetation should include a mix of grasses and wildflowers native to the
region.
c. Foundations. A qualified engineer shall certify that the foundation and design of
the solar panels racking and support is within accepted professional standards,
given local soil and climate conditions.
d. Power and communication lines. Power and communication lines running
between banks of solar panels and to nearby electric substations or
interconnections with buildings shall be buried underground. Exemptions may be
granted in instances where shallow bedrock, water courses, or other elements of
the natural landscape interfere with the ability to bury lines, or distance makes
undergrounding infeasible, at the discretion of the zoning administrator.
Section 21. I-G General industrial district. Chapter 36, Section 244(e) of the St. Louis Park
City Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(10) Solar energy systems.
Section 22. MX-1 vertical mixed use district. Chapter 36, Section 264(f) of the St. Louis
Park City Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(14) Solar energy systems.
Section 23. MX-2 Neighborhood mixed use district. Chapter 36, Section 265(f) of the St.
Louis Park City Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(10) Solar energy systems.
Section 24. PUD-1. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 1(c) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(5) Solar energy systems.
Section 25. PUD-2. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 2(d) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(6) Solar energy systems.
Section 26. PUD-3. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 3(d) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(9) Solar energy systems.
Section 27. PUD-4. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 4(c) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(8) Solar energy systems.
Section 28. PUD-5. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 5(c) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(10) Solar energy systems.
Section 29. PUD-6. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 6(c) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(6) Solar energy systems.
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Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Solar energy systems
Section 30. PUD-7. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 7(c) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(9) Solar energy systems.
Section 31. PUD-8. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 8(c) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(8) Solar energy systems.
Section 32. PUD-9. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 9(b)(2) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to delete the following strike-out text and add the following underlined text:
e. Solar Panels Solar energy systems.
i. Rooftop of building mounted systems.
1. Roof or building mounted solar systems may exceed the maximum allowed
height in the PUD zoning district by 3 feet.
ii. Ground or accessory structure mounted solar systems.
1. The height of a ground or accessory structure mounted solar system, measured
when oriented at maximum design tilt, shall not exceed 20 feet.
Section 33. PUD-9. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 9(c)(2) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to delete the following strike-out text and add the following underlined text:
h. Solar panels Solar energy systems.
i. Roof or building mounted solar systems may exceed the maximum allowed height
in the PUD zoning district by 3 feet.
Section 34. PUD-9. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 9(d)(3) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to delete the following strike-out text and add the following underlined text:
f. Solar panels Solar energy systems.
i. Roof or building mounted solar systems may exceed the maximum allowed height
in the PUD zoning district by 3 feet.
Section 35. PUD-9. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 9(e)(2) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to delete the following strike-out text and add the following underlined text:
h. Solar panels Solar energy systems.
i. Roof or building mounted solar systems may exceed the maximum allowed height
in the PUD zoning district by 3 feet.
Section 36. PUD-10. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 10(c) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(7) Solar energy systems.
Section 37. PUD-11. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 11(d) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(7) Solar energy systems.
Section 38. PUD-12. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 12(d) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(8) Solar energy systems.
Section 39. PUD-13. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 13(d) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to delete the following strike-out text and add the following underlined text:
(7) Solar panels. Roof or building mounted solar systems shall not exceed the maximum
allowed height in PUD 13. Solar energy systems.
Section 40. PUD-14. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 14(c) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
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Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Solar energy systems
(7) Solar energy systems.
Section 41. PUD-15. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 15(b)A (Accessory uses) of the St. Louis
Park City Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
AB. Accessory uses:
***
7. Accessory utility structures including:
i. Small wind energy conversion system as defined in 36-4 Definitions.
ii. Solar energy systems. A solar energy system with a supporting framework that is
either place on, or anchored in, the ground and that is independent of any building
or other structure; or that is affixed to or an integral part of a principal or accessory
building, including but not limited to photovoltaic or hot water solar energy
systems which are contained within roofing materials, windows, skylights, and
awnings.
iii. Cisterns and rainwater collection systems.
Section 42. PUD-16. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 16(b)2 of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
h. Accessory utility structures including:
i. Small wind energy conversion system as defined in 36-4 Definitions.
ii. Solar energy systems. A solar energy system with a supporting framework that is
either place on, or anchored in, the ground and that is independent of any building
or other structure; or that is affixed to or an integral part of a principal or accessory
building, including but not limited to photovoltaic or hot water solar energy
systems which are contained within roofing materials, windows, skylights, and
awnings.
iii. Cisterns and rainwater collection systems.
Section 43. PUD-17. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 17(c) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
1. Accessory utility structures including:
a. Small wind energy conversion system as defined in 36-4 Definitions.
b. Solar energy systems. A solar energy system with a supporting framework that is
either place on, or anchored in, the ground and that is independent of any building
or other structure; or that is affixed to or an integral part of a principal or accessory
building, including but not limited to photovoltaic or hot water solar energy
systems which are contained within roofing materials, windows, skylights, and
awnings.
c. Cisterns and rainwater collection systems.
Section 44. PUD-18. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 18(b)2 of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
g. Accessory utility structures including:
i. Small wind energy conversion system as defined in 36-4 Definitions.
ii. Solar energy systems. A solar energy system with a supporting framework that is
either place on, or anchored in, the ground and that is independent of any building
or other structure; or that is affixed to or an integral part of a principal or accessory
30
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Solar energy systems
building, including but not limited to photovoltaic or hot water solar energy
systems which are contained within roofing materials, windows, skylights, and
awnings.
iii. Cisterns and rainwater collection systems.
Section 45. PUD-19. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 19(b)2 of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
g. Accessory utility structures including:
i. Small wind energy conversion system as defined in 36-4 Definitions.
ii. Solar energy systems. A solar energy system with a supporting framework that is
either place on, or anchored in, the ground and that is independent of any building
or other structure; or that is affixed to or an integral part of a principal or accessory
building, including but not limited to photovoltaic or hot water solar energy
systems which are contained within roofing materials, windows, skylights, and
awnings.
iii. Cisterns and rainwater collection systems.
Section 46. PUD-20. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 20(b)3 of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
h. Accessory utility structures including:
i. Small wind energy conversion system as defined in 36-4 Definitions.
ii. Solar energy systems. A solar energy system with a supporting framework that is
either place on, or anchored in, the ground and that is independent of any building
or other structure; or that is affixed to or an integral part of a principal or accessory
building, including but not limited to photovoltaic or hot water solar energy
systems which are contained within roofing materials, windows, skylights, and
awnings.
iii. Cisterns and rainwater collection systems.
Section 47. PUD-21. Chapter 36, Section 268-PUD 21(b)3 of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
g. Accessory utility structures including:
i. Small wind energy conversion system as defined in 36-4 Definitions.
ii. Solar energy systems. A solar energy system with a supporting framework that is
either place on, or anchored in, the ground and that is independent of any building
or other structure; or that is affixed to or an integral part of a principal or accessory
building, including but not limited to photovoltaic or hot water solar energy
systems which are contained within roofing materials, windows, skylights, and
awnings.
iii. Cisterns and rainwater collection systems.
Section 48. Architectural design. Chapter 36, Section 366(c)(1)a of the St. Louis Park City
Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text (renumber accordingly):
9. wall mounted solar energy system.
Section 49. Architectural design. Chapter 36, Section 366(d)(3)a of the St. Louis Park City
Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
31
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Solar energy systems
4. Solar collector surface and its frame shall be exempt from rooftop screening
requirements.
Section 50. Solar energy systems. Chapter 36, Section 369 of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to add the following underlined text (renumber accordingly):
Sec. 36-369. Solar energy systems.
(a) Purpose. Regulations governing solar energy systems are established to provide for
appropriate locations for solar energy systems, to ensure compatibility with
surrounding uses, and to promote safe and effective use of solar energy to increase
opportunities for generation of renewable energy.
(b) Findings.
(1) The city of St. Louis Park desires to encourage the use of local renewable energy.
(2) It is in the city’s best interest to promote sustainable building design and
management practices to serve the needs of current and future generations.
(3) Solar energy is an abundant, renewable, and nonpolluting energy resource and its
conversion to electricity or heat reduces dependence on nonrenewable energy
resources and decreases the air and water pollution that results from the use of
conventional energy sources.
(4) Distributed solar photovoltaic systems will enhance the reliability and power quality
of the power grid and make more efficient use of St. Louis Park’s electric distribution
insfrastructure.
(5) Solar energy is anunderused local energy resource and encouraging the use of solar
energy will diversify the city’s energy supply.
(6)
(c) Administrative review process.
(1) Permit required. A permit shall be issued prior to the installation of a solar energy
system.
(2) Submittal requirements. An application for a solar energy system shall be filed on a
form approved by the zoning administrator. In addition, the applicant shall submit
the following:
a. Written evidence that the electric utility service provider that serves the
proposed site has been informed of the applicant's intent to install a solar
energy system, unless the applicant does not plan, and so states so in the
application, to connect the system to the electricity grid.
b. All solar installations must comply with applicable building, electric and
plumbing codes.
(3) In general. The zoning administrator may impose such conditions and require such
guarantees deemed reasonable and necessary to protect the public interest and to
ensure compliance with the standards and purposes of this zoning ordinance and
policies of the comprehensive plan.
32
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Solar energy systems
(d) Standards by zoning district. Solar energy systems are allowed as provided in each
zoning district and must comply with the provisions of this ordinance.
(1) Building-mounted solar energy systems.
a. Building-mounted solar energy systems shall comply with the dimensional
standards applicable to the structure it is attached to.
b. Notwithstanding the height limitations of the zoning district, building mounted
solar energy systems shall not extend higher than three (3) feet above the
ridge level of a roof on a structure with a gable, hip, or gambrel roof and shall
not extend higher than ten (10) feet above the surface of the roof when
installed on flat or shed roof.
c. The solar collector surface and mounting devices for building-mounted solar
energy systems shall be set back not less than one (1) foot from the exterior
perimeter of a roof for each one (1) foot that the system extends above the
parapet wall or roof surface, if no parapet wall exists, on which the system is
mounted. Solar energy systems that extend less than three (3) feet above the
roof surface shall be exempt from this provision.
d. All solar energy systems using a reflector to enhance solar production shall
minimize glare from the reflector that affects adjacent or nearby properties.
Measures to minimize nuisance glare include selective placement of the
system, screening on the north side of the solar array, modifying the
orientation of the system, reducing use of the reflector system, or other
remedies that limit glare.
(2) Freestanding solar energy systems.
a. Freestanding solar energy systems located in a residential district shall be
considered an accessory structure and are governed by all the regulations as
such except that they are not permitted in the front yard.
b. Freestanding solar energy systems located in all other zoning districts shall be
considered accessory structures and are governed by all the regulations as such
with the following exceptions:
1. Freestanding solar energy systems shall be located at least three feet from
the interior side and rear lot lines.
2. Freestanding solar energy systems are not permitted in the front yard.
3. Freestanding solar energy systems cannot exceed 20 feet in height,
measured from the ground to the highest point of the system.
c. The area of the solar collector surface of freestanding solar energy systems
shall not exceed five (5) percent of the lot area for multi-family residential
properties. All other properties shall not exceed fifteen (15) percent unless
otherwise noted in this chapter. Notwithstanding any other provision to the
contrary, the maximum area of solar energy systems shall be calculated
independently of the floor area of all other accessory structures on the lot.
d. The supporting framework for freestanding solar energy systems shall not
include unfinished lumber. 33
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 1)
Title: Solar energy systems
e. All abandoned or unused freestanding solar energy systems shall be removed
within twelve (12) months of the cessation of operations.
f. All solar energy systems using a reflector to enhance solar production shall
minimize glare from the reflector that affects adjacent or nearby properties.
Measures to minimize nuisance glare include selective placement of the
system, screening on the north side of the solar array, modifying the
orientation of the system, reducing use of the reflector system, or other
remedies that limit glare.
34
Planning commission: Study session
Meeting date: November 3, 2021
Study session item: 2
2 Zoning ordinance amendment pertaining to daycares
Recommended
motions:
No action is required at this time. The purpose of this report is to
provide an update of the proposed amendment to the daycare zoning
regulations and discuss next steps.
Summary of request: The purpose of the ordinance is to reduce barriers in the zoning
ordinance that make it difficult to locate a daycare in St. Louis Park, by amending the zoning
regulations pertaining to daycares in the following manner:
1. Follow state regulations applicable to outdoor activity areas.
2. Change rules related to drop-off areas.
3. Eliminate the minimum distance requirement from principal arterial roads (major
highways such as Highways 100, 394, 169 and 7).
4. Create consistency across all zoning districts in how daycares are regulated.
Background: Over the past few years, staff has worked with several daycare operators wishing
to locate in St. Louis Park. Unfortunately, most have been unable to find a location that meets
all our zoning conditions, such as size of outdoor play area and minimum distance from major
highways. To accommodate the growing need for this valued service, staff recommends the city
consider a more flexible model.
The attached discussion summarizes each section of the proposed ordinance. Additionally, the
complete ordinance is attached for your review. Staff is particularly looking for feedback on the
following:
1. Should the city remove the condition that outdoor activity areas be located at least 200 feet
from a principal arterial?
2. Should the city remove the minimum size requirements for outdoor activity areas, and rely
on the state minimum requirements?
3. Should the city allow parks to count toward the outdoor activity area requirement per state
requirements?
4. Should the city remove or amend the requirement for on-site loading/unloading areas?
5. The business park district limits the size of daycare centers located on the ground floor of
the building. Should it be clarified to prevent the daycare center from occupying upper
floors of a multi-story building?
6. Daycare centers are currently permitted in the industrial districts. Should they be
prohibited?
Staff seeks feedback from the planning commission on the draft ordinance. Commissioners are
asked to familiarize themselves with the draft ordinance and to prepare for a discussion on this
topic.
Next Steps: Based on the outcome of the discussion, staff will initiate the public hearing for the
ordinance or return to the commission at a future study session with additional edits.
Attachments: Discussion; proposed ordinance.
Prepared by: Gary Morrison, zoning administrator
Reviewed by: Sean Walther, planning manager 35
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Zoning ordinance amendment pertaining to daycares
Discussion
Background: A license is required from the Minnesota Department of Human Services to
operate a commercial daycare center. Hennepin county licenses the family daycares operated
out of a home.
The city allows family daycares as an accessory use in each of our residential districts. The only
conditions applied to them is that they are limited to 14 children and may have only one
employee working at the daycare that does not also reside at the home. Staff does not propose
any changes to these regulations apart from minor rewording to be consistent in all districts.
Commercial daycare centers are allowed in nearly all zoning districts with conditions that either
exceed state minimum requirements or regulate additional criteria that are not included in the
state requirements. These additional requirements make it difficult for daycare center
operators to locate in St. Louis Park. Therefore, staff propose the following:
1. Review the city regulations and consider eliminating conditions that exceed state minimum
requirements or are in addition to the state requirements.
2. The city regulations vary from district to district. Staff propose to revise the regulations, so
they are uniformly applied in all districts.
Below is a summary of the changes. Please refer to the draft ordinance for the complete text.
1. The state requires at least 1,500 square feet of outdoor activity area. The maximum
number of children allowed in the outdoor activity area is determined by the size of the
area. There must be at least 75 square feet of outdoor activity per child occupying the area
at any given time.
City code currently requires 40 square feet of outdoor activity area per child the center is
designed to accommodate at maximum occupancy. As a result, the city requirement is
greater than the states. For example, if the maximum occupancy of a daycare is 50
children, then the outdoor activity area needs to be at least 2,000 square feet. The city
formula doesn’t acknowledge that all children are never outside at the same time. In
comparison, the state regulations not only establish a minimum size of the outdoor activity
area, 1,500 square feet, but it also establishes a maximum number of children that can be
in the activity area at any given time, each child in the activity area must have at least 75
square feet of area. Staff propose to remove the city requirement and rely on the state
requirement.
2. The state does not require the outdoor activity area to be located on the daycare center
site. It simply requires it to be within 2,000 feet of the center if the children are walking to
it, or within a half-mile if transportation is provided by the center. This allows city parks to
be used for the outdoor activity area.
City code currently requires the outdoor activity area to be located on-site. Therefore, city
parks cannot be used to meet this need. Staff propose to remove this requirement and rely
on the state requirements. This would allow city parks to be used to meet the requirement
36
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Zoning ordinance amendment pertaining to daycares
provided they meet state rules. We may bring this discussion to the parks and recreation
advisory commission for feedback.
3. The state requires the on-site outdoor activity area to be enclosed if it is located adjacent
to a traffic, rail, water, machinery, or other environmental hazard. The enclosure
requirement does not apply if the area is a public park or playground.
City code currently requires the on-site activity area to be enclosed with a fence. Staff does
not propose changing this requirement.
In addition to the changes summarized above, staff propose amending city daycare regulations
that are not required by the state.
1. Staff propose eliminating the requirement that outdoor activity areas be located at least
200 feet from a principal arterial. Many of our commercial properties are located along a
principal arterial, so this requirement is a significant barrier to daycare centers locating in
St. Louis Park. The ordinance proposes to continue to require the outdoor activity areas to
be enclosed with a fence for safety purposes.
2. The city currently allows daycare centers in the industrial districts. The ordinance proposes
to remove this land use from the industrial districts due to the variety of industrial
activities occurring in these districts. The activities are more likely to generate odors,
exhaust, vibration and noise. The ordinance proposes to only allow a daycare as an
accessory use to a business if the daycare is used primarily for its employees.
3. The business park district allows daycare centers with the condition that they do not
occupy more than 50% of the gross floor area of a single-story building or 50% of the
ground floor in a multi-story building. Staff find this language to be vague and open to
interpretation. Should this provision be amended to clearly prevent or allow daycares to
occupy upper stories of a building?
37
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Zoning ordinance amendment pertaining to daycares
Proposed amendment
Ordinance No. ___-21
Ordinance regarding daycares
The City of St. Louis Park does ordain:
Whereas, the planning commission conducted a public hearing on _____ on the
ordinance, and
Whereas, the City Council has considered the advice and recommendation of the planning
commission (case no. _____), and
Now, therefore be it resolved that the following amendments shall be made to the City
Code:
Section 1. R-1 single-family residence district. Chapter 36-163(e) of the St. Louis Park City
Code is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined
text:
(4) Family day care facilities serving 14 or fewer persons with the following condition:
a. No person is employed at the residence who does not legally reside in the home
except that a A licensed family day care facility may have one outside employee.
Section 2. R-1 single-family residence district. Chapter 36-163(e) of the St. Louis Park City
Code is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined
text:
(11) Group day care/nursery school in a religious institution, community center, or academic
educational institution complying with all of the following conditions:
a. At least 40 square feet of outside play space per pupil is provided.
b. The on-site outdoor activity outside play areas shall be are enclosed with a fence.
c. Dropoff and loading points are established which do not interfere with traffic and
pedestrian movements.
c. Dropoff and loading points shall be established that maintain vehicular and
pedestrian safety.
Section 3. R-2 single-family residence district. Chapter 36-164(e) of the St. Louis Park City
Code is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined
text:
(4) Family day care facilities serving 14 or fewer persons with the following condition:
a. No person is employed at the residence who does not legally reside in the home
except that a A licensed family day care facility may have one outside employee.
38
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Zoning ordinance amendment pertaining to daycares
Section 4. R-2 single-family residence district. Chapter 36-164(e) of the St. Louis Park City
Code is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined
text:
(11) Group day care/nursery school in a religious institution, community center, or academic
educational institution complying with all of the following conditions:
a. At least 40 square feet of outside play space per pupil is provided.
b. The on-site outdoor activity outside play areas shall be are enclosed with a fence.
c. Dropoff and loading points shall be established that maintain vehicular and
pedestrian safety. are established which do not interfere with traffic and
pedestrian movements.
Section 5. R-3 two-family residence district. Chapter 36-165(e) of the St. Louis Park City
Code is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined
text:
(4) Family day care facilities serving 14 or fewer persons with the following condition:
a. No person is employed at the residence who does not legally reside in the home
except that a A licensed family day care facility may have one outside employee.
Section 6. R-3 single-family residence district. Chapter 36-165(e) of the St. Louis Park City
Code is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined
text:
(11) Group day care/nursery school in a religious institution, community center, or academic
educational institution complying with all of the following conditions:
a. At least 40 square feet of outside play space per pupil is provided.
b. The on-site outdoor activity outside play areas shall be are enclosed with a fence.
c. Dropoff and loading points shall be established that maintain vehicular and
pedestrian safety. are established which do not interfere with traffic and
pedestrian movements.
Section 7. R-4 multiple-family residence district. Chapter 36-166(c) of the St. Louis Park
City Code is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following
underlined text:
(2) Group day care/nursery school in a religious institution, community center, or academic
educational institution complying with all of the following conditions:
a. At least 40 square feet of The on-site outdoor activity areas shall be enclosed with
a fence. outside play space per pupil is provided.
b. An off-street passenger loading area shall be provided in order to maintain
vehicular and pedestrian safety.
b. Dropoff and loading points shall be established that maintain vehicular and
pedestrian safety.
c. The play area shall be located a minimum of 200 feet from any roadway defined
on the comprehensive plan as a principal arterial.
Section 8. R-4 multiple-family residence district. Chapter 36-166(e) of the St. Louis Park
City Code is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following
underlined text: 39
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Zoning ordinance amendment pertaining to daycares
(4) Family day care facilities serving 14 or fewer persons with the following conditions:
a. No person is employed at the residence who does not legally reside in the home
except that aA licensed family day care facility may have one outside employee.
Section 9. R-C high-density multiple-family residence district. Chapter 36-167(c) of the St.
Louis Park City Code is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the
following underlined text:
(2) Group day care/nursery school in a religious institution, community center, or academic
educational institution complying with all of the following conditions:
a. At least 40 square feet of The on-site outdoor activity areas shall be enclosed with
a fence. outside play space per pupil is provided.
b. Dropoff and loading points shall be established that maintain vehicular and
pedestrian safety.
c. The play area shall be located a minimum of 200 feet from any roadway defined
on the comprehensive plan as a principal arterial.
Section 10. R-C high-density multiple-family residence district. Chapter 36-167(e) of the St.
Louis Park City Code is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the
following underlined text:
(4) Group care/nursery school. The conditions are as follows:
a. No person is employed at the residence who does not legally reside in the home
except that aA licensed family day care facility may have one outside employee.
Section 11. C-1 neighborhood commercial district. Chapter 36-193(c) of the St. Louis Park
City Code is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following
underlined text:
(2) Group care/nursery school. The conditions are as follows:
a. A minimum of at least 40 square feet of The on-site outdoor activity areas
outside play space per pupil shall be provided and such space shall be enclosed
by a fence.
b. Dropoff and loading points shall be established that maintain vehicular and
pedestrian safety.
b. An off-street passenger loading area shall be provided in order to maintain
vehicular and pedestrian safety.
c. The play area shall be located a minimum of 200 feet from any roadway defined
on the comprehensive plan as a principal arterial.
Section 12. C-2 general commercial district. Chapter 36-194(c) of the St. Louis Park City
Code is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined
text:
(3) Group care/nursery school. The conditions are as follows:
a. A minimum of at least 40 square feet of The on-site outdoor activity
areasoutside play space per pupil shall be provided and such space shall be
enclosed by a fence.
b. Dropoff and loading points shall be established that maintain vehicular and
pedestrian safety.
b. An off-street passenger loading area shall be provided in order to maintain
vehicular and pedestrian safety.
40
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Zoning ordinance amendment pertaining to daycares
c. The play area shall be located a minimum of 200 feet from any roadway defined
on the comprehensive plan as a principal arterial.
Section 13. O office district. Chapter 36-223(c) of the St. Louis Park City Code is hereby
amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined text:
(2) Group care/nursery school. The conditions are as follows:
a. The use shall be permitted only as a part of a larger development which contains
at least one other principal use.
b. A minimum of at least 40 square feet of The on-site outdoor activity
areasoutside play space per pupil shall be provided and such space shall be
enclosed by a fence.
c. Dropoff and loading points shall be established that maintain vehicular and
pedestrian safety.
c. An off-street passenger loading area shall be provided in order to maintain
vehicular and pedestrian safety.
d. Outdoor play areas shall be located a minimum of 200 feet from any roadway as
defined in the comprehensive plan as a principal arterial.
Section 14. BP business park district. Chapter 36-233(c) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined text:
(2) Group care/nursery school. The conditions are as follows:
a. The use must have a minimum of 40 square feet of The on-site outdoor activity
areas outdoor area per child dedicated to outdoor activity or be within ¼ mile of
a city park shall be enclosed by a fence.
b. The use may not exceed 50% of the gross floor area of a single-story building or
50% of the ground floor in a multi-story building.
c. Provision shall be made for drop-off and pick-up of children or students.
c. Dropoff and loading points shall be established that maintain vehicular and
pedestrian safety.
Section 15. I-P Industrial park district. Chapter 36-243(c) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined text:
(1) Group day care/nursery schools. The conditions are as follows:
a. The use shall occupy a maximum of ten percent of the gross floor area.
b. The use is intended primarily for the benefit of employees.
c. A minimum of 40 square feet of outside play space per pupil shall be provided and
such space shall be enclosed by a fence.
d. An off-street dropoff and loading area shall be designed in order to maintain
vehicular and pedestrian safety.
e. Outdoor play areas shall be located a minimum of 15 feet from any property lines.
f. No outdoor play area shall be located within 200 feet of any principal arterial as
defined on the comprehensive plan.
Section 16. I-P Industrial park district. Chapter 36-243(d) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined text:
(4) Group Daycare/Nursery Schools.
a. A minimum of 40 square feet of outside play space per pupil shall be provided and
such space shall be enclosed by a 42 inch minimum height fence. 41
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Zoning ordinance amendment pertaining to daycares
b. An off-street dropoff and loading area shall be designed in order to maintain
vehicular and pedestrian safety.
c. Outdoor play areas shall be located a minimum of 15 feet from any property lines.
d. No outdoor play area shall be located within 200 feet of any principal arterial as
defined on the comprehensive plan.
e. The daycare facility, including the outdoor play area, shall be no closer than 350
feet to any property containing a sexually oriented business.
f. The neighboring industrial uses shall not have an adverse impact on the
operations and health, safety and welfare of the proposed group daycare/nursery
school. The characteristics of such impacts shall be analyzed by the planning, fire
and health officials, and shall include, but not be limited to, dust, truck traffic,
odors and hazardous materials.
Section 17. I-P Industrial park district. Chapter 36-243(e) of the St. Louis Park City Code is
hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined text:
(10) Group day care/nursery schools. The conditions are as follows:
a. The use shall occupy a maximum of ten percent of the gross floor area.
b. The use is intended primarily for the benefit of employees.
c. The on-site outdoor activity areas shall be enclosed by a fence.
d. Dropoff and loading points shall be established that maintain vehicular and
pedestrian safety.
Section 18. I-G general Industrial district. Chapter 36-244(c) of the St. Louis Park City Code
is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined text:
(1) Group day care/nursery schools. The conditions are as follows:
a. The use shall occupy a maximum of ten percent of the gross floor area of a
building.
b. The use is intended primarily for the benefit of employees.
c. A minimum of 40 square feet of outside play space shall be provided per pupil and
such space shall be enclosed with a fence.
d. An off-street passenger dropoff and loading area shall be designed in order to
maintain vehicular and pedestrian safety.
e. Outdoor play areas shall be located a minimum of 200 feet from any roadway
defined in the comprehensive plan as a principal arterial.
Section 19. I-G general Industrial district. Chapter 36-244(d) of the St. Louis Park City Code
is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined text:
(3) Group Daycare/Nursery Schools.
a. A minimum of 40 square feet of outside play space per pupil shall be provided and
such space shall be enclosed by a 42 inch minimum height fence.
b. An off-street dropoff and loading area shall be designed in order to maintain
vehicular and pedestrian safety.
c. Outdoor play areas shall be located a minimum of 15 feet from any property lines.
d. No outdoor play area shall be located within 200 feet of any principal arterial as
defined on the comprehensive plan.
e. The daycare facility, including the outdoor play area, shall be no closer than 350
feet to any property containing a sexually oriented business.
42
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Zoning ordinance amendment pertaining to daycares
f. The neighboring industrial uses shall not have an adverse impact on the operations
and health, safety and welfare of the proposed group daycare/nursery school. The
characteristics of such impacts shall be analyzed by the planning, fire and health
officials, and shall include, but not be limited to: noise, dust, truck traffic, odors
and hazardous materials.
Section 20. I-G general Industrial district. Chapter 36-244(e) of the St. Louis Park City Code
is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined text:
(10) Group daycare/nursery schools. The conditions are as follows:
a. The use shall occupy a maximum of ten percent of the gross floor area of a
building.
b. The use is intended primarily for the benefit of employees.
c. The on-site outdoor activity areas shall be enclosed with a fence.
d. Dropoff and loading points shall be established that maintain vehicular and
pedestrian safety.
Section 21. MX-1 vertical mixed use district. Chapter 36-264 Table 36-263(b) of the St.
Louis Park City Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text. Place in
alphabetical order:
COMMERCIAL USES
Group daycare/nursery school PC PC
Section 22. MX-1 vertical mixed use district. Chapter 36-264(d) of the St. Louis Park City
Code is hereby amended to add the following underlined text:
(8) Group daycare/nursery school
a. The on-site outdoor activity areas shall be enclosed with a fence.
b. Dropoff and loading points shall be established that maintain vehicular and
pedestrian safety.
Section 23. MX-2 neighborhood mixed use district. Chapter 36-265(d) of the St. Louis Park
City Code is hereby amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following
underlined text:
(8) Group daycare/nursery school.
a. The on-site outdoor activity areas shall be enclosed with a fence.An off-street
passenger loading area shall be provided in order to maintain vehicular and
pedestrian safety.
b. Ground level outdoor play areas:
i. Shall be at least 1,500 square feet in total area and provide at least 75 square
feet of area per child in the area at any given time.
a. An off-site park meeting these standards may meet this requirement, if the
park is within 2,000 feet of the school
ii. Shall be located a minimum of 200 feet from any roadway defined on the
Comprehensive Plan as a principal arterial.
b. Dropoff and loading points shall be established that maintain vehicular and
pedestrian safety. 43
Regular meeting meeting of November 3, 2021 (Item No. 2)
Title: Zoning ordinance amendment pertaining to daycares
Section 24. PUD-17. Chapter 36-268-PUD 17 of the St. Louis Park City Code is hereby
amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined text:
(c)Accessory uses.
3.Family day care serving 14 or fewer persons.
a.A licensed family day care facility may have one outside employee.
b.Dropoff and loading points shall be established that maintain vehicular and pedestrian
safety.
Section 25. PUD-19. Chapter 36-268-PUD 19 of the St. Louis Park City Code is hereby
amended to delete the struck-out language and to add the following underlined text:
b) Uses
1.Permitted uses. The following uses are permitted in PUD 19:
a.Multiple-family dwellings. Uses associated with the multiple-family dwellings,
including but not limited to, the residential leasing and property management office,
fitness facility, mail room, assembly room or general amenity space.
b.Group daycare/nursery schools complying with the following conditions:
i.At least 40 square feet of outside play space per pupil is provided.
ii.The on-site outdoor activityoutside play areas shall beare enclosed with a fence.
iii.Dropoff and loading points are established which do not interfere with traffic
and pedestrian movements. Dropoff and loading points shall be established that
maintain vehicular and pedestrian safety.
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