HomeMy WebLinkAbout2024/09/04 - ADMIN - Agenda Packets - Planning Commission - Regular Planning commission meeting and study session
September 4, 2024
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 meeting and study session
The St. Louis Park planning commission is meeting in person at St. Louis Park City Hall, 5005
Minnetonka Blvd. Members of the public can attend the planning commission meeting in
person or watch the regular meeting by webstream at bit.ly/watchslppc and on local cable
(Comcast SD channel 14 and HD channel 798). Visit bit.ly/slppcagendas to view the agenda and
reports.
You can provide comment on agenda items in person at the meeting or by emailing your
comments to info@stlouispark.org by noon the day of the meeting. Comments must be related
to an item on the meeting agenda.
Agenda
PLANNING COMMISSION
1.Call to order – roll call
2.Approval of minutes – August 7, 2024 regular meeting and study session
3.Hearing
3.a. Zoning Text Amendment – breweries with taprooms
Applicant: Karl Eicher
Case No: 24-17-ZA
4.Other Business
5.Communications
6.Adjournment
PLANNING COMMISSION STUDY SESSION
1.Zoning code update
Future scheduled meeting/event dates:
September 18, 2024 - planning commission regular meeting
October 9, 2024 - planning commission regular meeting*
October 16, 2024 - planning commission regular meeting
November 6, 2024 - planning commission regular meeting
*Meeting held on October 9 because Rosh Hashanah begins on October 2.
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Planning commission
August 7, 2024
6:00 p.m.
If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call Sean Walther or the administration
department at 952.924.2525.
Planning commission
Unofficial Minutes
Members present: Jim Beneke, Matt Eckholm, Sylvie Hyman, Katie Merten, Jan Youngquist
(arrived 6:05 p.m.)
Members absent: Mia Divecha, Tom Weber
Staff present: Sean Walther and Katelyn Champoux
Guests: None
1. Call to order – roll call.
2. Approval of minutes – May 1, 2024 and May 22, 2024
Vice Chair Eckholm noted on page 6, it should not include the words specifically “…15-18 story
building…”
It was moved by Commissioner Merten, seconded by Commissioner Beneke, to approve the May
1 and May 22, 2024 minutes with corrections as noted. The motion passed unanimously.
3. Hearings.
3a. Tree preservation ordinance
Applicant: City of St. Louis Park
Case No: 24-15-ZA
Ms. Champoux presented the report. She noted the first reading will go to council on Monday,
Aug. 19 and second reading on Monday, Sept. 9, 2024.
Commissioner Merten asked about tree preservation credits and if the tree needs to be in good
shape and if they would also look at the lifespan of the tree as well.
Ms. Champoux stated the city forester does look at trees to make sure they are healthy, but she
is not sure about the lifespan question.
Commissioner Merten asked about the tree preservation, and if that is for existing
homeowners. Ms. Champoux stated the policy applies to commercial and residential
properties, which is a broad definition. She noted if a single-family parcel subdivides, it would
apply.
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Commissioner Beneke asked about trees fitting on properties. Ms. Champoux stated if
someone could not meet the tree replacement requirements, then the fee would be applied or
the option to plant off-site in a public space with city permission.
Commissioner Beneke asked about replacing trees. Ms. Champoux stated it would depend on
how many must be preserved, and depending on how many were removed. Mr. Walther added
tools will be provided for folks to clarify the formulas within the code on tree replacement.
Commissioner Merten asked when the replacement of heritage trees is required, does it need
to be a similar tree. Ms. Champoux stated there is direction within the code on type and size
required. She stated there is a minimum size requirement of 2.5 caliper inches for new trees
and requirements to diversify the types of trees on the site. Mr. Walther added it would need
to be a tree “in-kind” and not a dissimilar tree.
Commissioner Youngquist asked about the difference between caliper inches and diameter
inches noted in the report. Ms. Champoux stated diameter inches are used for mature trees
while caliper inches are used for nursery stock trees. Diameter inches are measured at 4.5 feet
in height and caliper inches are measured closer to the ground.
Commissioner Hyman asked how this policy is enforced. Ms. Champoux stated the tree
preservation plans are part of landscape plans and are reviewed as part of the planning
application process. Landscape inspections are then completed.
Mr. Walther stated this relates to new construction or a land disturbance program, importing or
exporting soils.
Commissioner Hyman asked if there is monetary value or incentives to the preservation credits.
Ms. Champoux stated property owners do not receive money for preserving more than they
remove. The preservation credit reduces the total replacement requirement up to 50%. If no
trees are removed, there is no replacement required and no incentive.
Commissioner Hyman asked if there are incentives to locate trees in areas where they are more
likely to live rather than in areas that may limit their lifespan such as near sidewalks or close to
buildings. Ms. Champoux stated the city’s natural resources department reviews the landscape
plans for the proposed location of trees and will recommend the applicant plant a tree in a
different location if the originally proposed location is not suitable for healthy tree growth.
Commissioner Hyman asked about trees under power lines and how can the city prevent trees
being planted there. Ms. Champoux stated if it is on a development and there are comments on
a proposal the city would recommend that trees are not planted that would grow into utility
lines. Mr. Walther added the city provides advisory on this and also educational handouts
related to this as well.
Vice Chair Eckholm opened the public hearing.
There were no comments from the public.
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Aug. 7, 2024
Vice Chair Eckholm closed the public hearing.
Vice Chair Eckholm thanked staff for this report and stated preserving the tree canopy in St.
Louis Park is very important, adding he will support this.
It was moved by Commissioner Merten, seconded by Commissioner Youngquist, to approve the
tree preservation policy amendments as presented. The motion passed unanimously.
4. Other Business – none.
5. Communications.
Mr. Walther noted the next two meetings are Aug 21 with a BOZA meeting as well as a study
session. There will also be a planning commission meeting on Sept. 9.
6. Adjournment – 6:30 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Sean Walther, liaison Matt Eckholm, Vice Chair member
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Planning commission
August 7, 2024
6:30 p.m.
If you need special accommodations or have questions about the meeting, please call Sean Walther or the administration
department at 952.924.2525.
Planning commission
Study session
Unofficial Minutes
Members present: Jim Beneke, Matt Eckholm, Sylvie Hyman, Katie Merten, Jan Youngquist
Members absent: Mia Divecha, Tom Weber
1. Zoning code update
Mr. Walther noted comments received on the zoning code updates. He noted residents replied
in June after several open houses. He stated there was a lower turnout than expected, but
noted there was good online engagement. Mr. Walther stated there were approximately 450-
500 people who responded both in-person and online.
Commissioner Hyman asked about mixed use and what areas will allow commercial other than
N4 areas. Mr. Walther stated it is not clear as yet, and multiple changes have been made over
the last few years about home businesses and expanded this to even allow one employee to
come into a home business.
Commissioner Eckholm noted overlays and stated possibly commercial can be added in a
certain area since it may already have commercial. He added under certain circumstances,
possibly and area can be one thing, but also another based on broad uses. Mr. Walther agreed
and pointed out only commercial areas do not allow for residential. He stated the PUD will be a
path to that in the future.
Commissioner Eckholm stated he would like to see 2-3 story apartments along Minnetonka Blvd
in order to build a denser housing area, and hoped certain corridors with N2 would also allow
for this as well.
Mr. Walther stated in the next iteration of information, he hopes to include use table, so the
commission can insert information.
Commissioner Beneke stated he still has concerns about not allowing owner-occupied and
would like to study that more. He would like more of a statement related to this.
Mr. Walther stated during the audit, concerns included the small lot sizes, and there was also
more support from the community for smaller developments, but if that is prohibited,
developers will not provide them. He added some changes were made in zoning because of this
interest in smaller developments.
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Commissioner Beneke asked that staff respond to this strongly.
Commissioner Hyman stated feedback comments noted owner occupancy rates that have gone
up over the years and asked if there is any fact-checking that can be done. Mr. Walther stated
that is inaccurate and there are very low vacancy rates in the city.
Commissioner Hyman asked about owner land trusts, noting the reason people do not own a
home is because they cannot afford to, so community and trusts would help. She asked if there
is more information on that. Mr. Walther stated there are multiple locations around the city
that are land trusts, one of which staff is working to have 4 duplexes built on, just west of Lake
Street on Minnetonka Blvd.
Mr. Walther stated the city works with groups to administer programs, but the city finances the
land trust programs.
Commissioner Merten stated the state and city can both provide loans to first-time
homeowners. Mr. Walther agreed.
Commissioner Eckholm added there is legislation proposed for more housing reform at the
state level, including the condominium building issue as well, to help push costs down for many
people.
The commissioner discussed their concerns regarding condominiums vs. apartments and also
hedge funds coming into the city to buy homes to rent out.
Commissioner Mertens stated we should not limit who can move into the city, adding some
people choose to rent their entire life, vs. purchasing a home, and many cannot afford to do so.
Commissioner Youngquist stated some of the comments were frustrating, and added there is
nothing wrong with renters. She stated homeownership is helpful to build wealth, but the
mindset is that renters bring down property values.
Commissioner Merten stated she did not purchase a home to sell it in 3 years or improve it for
the next owner.
Commissioner Youngquist stated comments from the community about housing and the N3
and N4, there are six responses and most of these homeowners are white males. She stated the
data may not hold the value that is being given to it.
Commissioner Merten stated people do want housing in the missing middle, so that should be
provided.
Commissioner Hyman stated HOA fees make it difficult for people to purchase condominiums
also. She stated possibly the city could set regulations on HOA fees.
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August 7, 2024
Mr. Walther stated the city does not look into assistance with HOA fees, but they have
intervened where developments were not kept up and they did not charge fees, and then work
to help them get funding to maintain those investments.
Commissioner Hyman asked if N1 allows for a secondary structure. Mr. Walther said the city
allows for ADUs and garages and ADUs up to 24 feet if they meet certain design requirements.
He stated they wanted to be sure they were allowed but not to become buildings that people
get used to seeing.
2. Cannabis zoning
Ms. Champoux presented the report. She gave an overview of the legislation and a recap of
conversations with the council on this.
Mr. Walther noted these regulations must be in place by the beginning of 2025.
Commissioner Merten asked if this regulates the growing or selling of cannabis. Ms. Champoux
stated it is both, with growing or producing it on the commercial side.
Commissioner Eckholm asked whether the buffer restrictions in the legislation are meant to
stop local governments from requiring 20,000-foot buffers from everything, for example. Ms.
Champoux stated yes. This is likely part of the reasoning behind the requirement to allow for at
least one retailer per 12,500 residents. Mr. Walther added that this legislation is for adult-use
cannabis so the buffer from schools, daycares, etc. are meant to prevent underage people from
using it. Commissioner Eckholm added that he also interpreted these regulations as not
allowing local governments to fully prohibit cannabis retailers.
Commissioner Youngquist asked what language we are proposing for the cap on cannabis
retailers in the zoning code. Ms. Champoux stated that the language will indicate the cap as one
per 12,500 residents rather than stating a specific number as this may change over time with
population growth.
Commissioner Youngquist asked if a cannabis producer has a dispensary, would the regulations
for dispensaries apply as well. Mr. Walther stated yes, that is correct.
Commissioner Beneke asked if the term “cannabis” in this context includes the THC edibles sold
at gas stations and other places currently. Ms. Champoux stated that hemp products are
referred to as low potency hemp in statute and non-hemp cannabis products are referred to as
cannabis products. Commissioner Beneke asked whether the regulations apply to the products
already legally sold in gas stations in the city. Mr. Walther stated that the zoning regulations will
apply to both product types but not in the items presented today. The licensing for both will
happen at the state level now. Mr. Walther also stated that staff will come better prepared to
answer these questions and the distinctions between the two product types in the future.
Commissioner Eckholm asked if the new zoning allows for municipal cannabis dispensaries. Mr.
Walther stated yes, the legislation allows for municipal sales if the city wants to participate in
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Planning commission
August 7, 2024
this. The legislation states that a municipal cannabis store would not count toward the
minimum retailers we are required to allow.
Ms. Champoux stated this will be discussed at city council on Sept. 23 and then will come back
to planning commission for a public hearing and then back to the council for final approval
before Jan. 2025.
Commissioner Youngquist asked if the code would prohibit on-site consumption at
dispensaries. Ms. Champoux stated yes.
Commissioner Youngquist asked if staff have looked at whether the proposed buffers impact
the existing locations of low potency hemp retailers. Ms. Champoux stated no, not at this time.
Mr. Walther added that this will not give a business a leg up in doing this. Staff have
communicated that the regulations are not yet finalized and won’t be finalized until the end of
the year.
Commissioner Merten stated she would like to know about variances in these cases and what
the code allows.
Mr. Walther noted when the state took over licensing, they took away licensing policies for the
city. He stated if it is in the zoning code, owners can apply for a variance, but they aren’t likely
to receive the variance. The city cannot prevent a business from applying for a variance, but it
can discourage them from applying.
Commissioner Hyman asked why we would want to allow only four cannabis retailers. Mr.
Walther stated that this is a policy question. The council has not yet weighed in on this. Staff
made an assumption based on conversations thus far that council may want to limit the
number of retailers. Planning commission could recommend to not have the cap on retailers
but to keep the buffers.
Commissioner Youngquist asked whether the city limits the number of liquor stores. Mr.
Walther stated no, it has in the past but it does not currently have a limit.
Commissioner Eckholm asked how many tobacco and vape shops are in St. Louis Park, adding
these are the shops that may try to convert.
Commissioner Merten stated what is to stop someone who manufactures cannabis from buying
a whole city block and putting a greenhouse on it. Mr. Walther stated it will only be allowed in
industrial zones.
Commissioner Hyman asked for more detail on the cap of four cannabis retailers.
Mr. Walther stated staff assumed the council would not want to allow more than four, but we
could be wrong. The buffers also limit the number of cannabis dispensaries and help create a
balance within the city so they are not all located in one neighborhood. There are a few areas
of the city where this use would be permitted and with the proposed buffers, once one locates
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Planning commission
August 7, 2024
in that area, other dispensaries can no longer open in that area. It’s a balance of both sides of
the equity question: How do we avoid a concentration of this use in one area of the city and
bear the brunt of the less desirable impacts? And how do we ensure people have equitable
access to these uses?
Commissioner Eckholm stated if there are four dispensaries, they are successful, none are
located in West End so that area is still open, and a dispensary comes in that wants to locate
there, we may reconsider the cap. This doesn’t necessarily have to be the last time we talk
about it.
Commissioner Merten asked if the city benefits from the sales with a tax of some kind. Mr.
Walther stated there is a small sales tax benefit.
Commissioner Hyman stated it seems like this is an unnecessary barrier. She added she is
wondering why the city is trying to discourage this, especially when the low potency product is
already available.
Commissioner Eckholm stated it makes sense to have some concerns because if other cities set
more strict regulations and we don’t, we may see more of these businesses in our community.
But if all local governments are prudent with their regulations, these businesses should
distribute across the metro more evenly, and then exceptions or changes can be made at a later
date.
Commissioner Hyman asked if other cities restricted it more than St. Louis Park, would not that
be beneficial for St. Louis Park.
Commissioner Eckholm stated it could be, but added he would rather open the door cautiously.
He stated changes can be made at any time also.
Commissioner Beneke asked what if there are more than 4 that apply. Mr. Walther stated he is
not sure how that might be handled. He added there is an option at the state for social equity
applicants, and some businesses can get early licensing so they have a head start in finding a
location. He added that the council will give direction on this ultimately, but the policy question
will be looked at as part of the process by the planning commission and then the council. He
stated there will be one more check-in on policy and then the formal process will begin with a
public hearing and then it will go to the council for final action.
3. Adjournment – 8:00 p.m.
______________________________________ ______________________________________
Sean Walther, liaison Mia Divecha, chair member
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Planning commission: Regular meeting
Meeting date: September 4, 2024
Agenda item: 3a
3a Zoning text amendment – Breweries with taprooms in IG – general industrial district
Case Number 24-17-ZA
Applicant Karl Eicher, owner of Haggard Barrel Brewing
Review
Deadline
60-Days: 10/6/2024 120 Days: 12/5/2024
Recommended
Actions
Chair to open the public hearing, take testimony and close the public
hearing.
Motion to recommend approval of the zoning text amendment
regarding breweries in the I-G general industrial zoning district.
Summary of Request: The applicant, Karl Eicher, owner of Haggard Barrel Brewing, requests a
zoning text amendment to the St. Louis Park city code chapter 36, sections 36-244(b) and (c) to:
1.Remove brewery from the list of “permitted uses” in section 244(b).
2.Add brewery to the permitted with conditions list in section 36-244(c) with the following
condition:
a.Up to 25% of the gross floor area of the brewery may be used for any
combination of retail and taproom.
Background: The applicant operates an existing brewery, Haggard Barrel Brewing, at 6413
Cambridge Street. He would like to open a taproom; however, taprooms are not currently
allowed in the I-G general industrial district. Therefore, he is requesting an amendment to the
zoning ordinance to allow taprooms as an accessory use to breweries in the I-G general
industrial zoning district
Analysis: The city allows breweries with taprooms in several districts. Below is a table showing
districts that currently allow taprooms in breweries and what conditions may be required. The
term “permitted with conditions” means it is allowed administratively if it meets the conditions
specific to that use.
Zoning district Taprooms in breweries Conditions
BP – business park Permitted with conditions a. The brewery shall not produce more than 20,000
barrels of malt liquor per year.
b. Up to 25% of the gross floor
I-P – industrial park Permitted with conditions a. The brewery shall not produce more than 20,000
barrels of malt liquor per year.
b. Up to 15% of the gross floor area of the Brewery
may be used for any combination of retail and a
taproom.
I-G – general industrial Not permitted
MX-1 vertical mixed use Permitted with conditions a. The brewery shall not produce more than 20,000
barrels of malt liquor per year.
b. The maximum overall gross floor area is limited
to 20,000 square feet.13
Regular meeting of September 4, 2024 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment-Breweries with taprooms in IG - general industrial district
c. A taproom and/or retail outlet is required and
shall be located in the Primary Street storefront
of the building.
d. The taproom and/or retail outlet shall occupy a
minimum of 20 percent of the gross floor area
with no maximum limit.
e. Alcohol produced off-site shall not be sold on-
site, this includes both on-sale and off-sale
transactions
f. This use may also include associated facilities
such as offices and small-scale warehousing,
but distribution is limited to vans and small
trucks. Distribution access shall be from the
rear.
MX-2 neighborhood mixed
use
Permitted with conditions Same as MX-1 (listed above)
As indicated in the table, the conditions applicable to the taprooms vary between the zoning
districts. The conditions required in the mixed-use district, for example, are the result of the
intended purpose of that district, specifically walkable streets with pedestrian oriented
storefronts. The purpose of the mixed-use zoning district is not consistent with the general
industrial zoning district, and therefore some of the conditions required in the mixed-use
zoning district are not applicable to the general industrial zoning district.
The general industrial zoning district is similar to the industrial park zoning district, therefore,
the conditions required for the general industrial zoning district should be more consistent with
the industrial park zoning district.
State statute allows taprooms at breweries that produce less than 250,000 barrels. This limit
has increased over the past few years from the initial amount of 20,000 barrels. Staff is
recommending not to include the condition limiting the total barrel production of the brewery
to 20,000 barrels, and instead, relying on the limit established in the state statute.
While the city does not allow taprooms in the general industrial zoning district, it does allow
distilleries to operate cocktail rooms. It is staff’s opinion that operating a taproom in the
general industrial zoning district is similar to distilleries operating cocktail rooms
Please note that while the applicant’s intent is to change the code so he can operate a taproom
at the Haggard Barrel Brewing location at 6413 Cambridge Street, the city should review the
text amendment more broadly because it would apply to all properties in the city that are
zoned I-G – general industrial.
Staff Recommendation: Staff recommends approval of the zoning text amendment regarding
breweries in the I-G general industrial zoning district with the condition recommended by staff.
Attachments: proposed zoning ordinance
Prepared by: Marcus Hansen, community development intern
Reviewed by: Gary Morrison, zoning administrator
Sean Walther, planning manager/deputy community development director
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Regular meeting of September 4, 2024 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment- breweries with taprooms in IG - general industrial district
Ordinance No. _____ -24
Ordinance amending chapter 36 of the city code regarding
breweries and taprooms in the IG-General Industrial zoning district
The city council of the City of St. Louis Park, Minnesota does ordain:
Whereas, an application was received to amend chapter 36 pertaining to zoning, to
amend the regulations regarding breweries and taprooms in the IG-General Industrial zoning
district to allow taprooms as an accessory use to breweries, and
Whereas, the planning commission conducted a public hearing on September 4, 2024 on
the ordinance, and
Whereas, the City Council considered the advice and recommendation of the planning
commission (case no. 24-17-ZA), and
Now, therefore be it resolved that the following amendments shall be made to the City
Code:
Section 1. Chapter 36, Section 36-244(b) of the St. Louis Park City Code is hereby
amended to remove the following struck-out text:
(14) Brewery.
Section 2. Chapter 36, Section 36-244(c) is hereby amended to add the following
underlined text:
(18)Brewery. The conditions are as follows:
a.Up to 25% of the gross floor area of the Brewery may be used for any
combination of retail and a taproom.
Section 3. This ordinance shall take effect fifteen days after its passage and publication.
First Reading
Second Reading
Date of Publication
Date Ordinance takes
effect
Reviewed for administration: Adopted by the city council
By: __________________________ By: __________________________________
Kim Keller, city manager Nadia Mohamed, mayor
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Regular meeting of September 4, 2024 (Item No. 3a)
Title: Zoning text amendment-breweries with taprooms in IG - general industrial district
Attest: Approved as to form and execution:
______________________________ ___________________________________
Melissa Kennedy, city clerk Soren M. Mattick, city attorney
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Planning commission: Study session
Meeting date: September 4, 2024
Agenda item: 1
1 Discussion of Use tables for Zoning Code Update, Phase 1
Recommended action: No action needed at this time. Staff will present a list of proposed uses
for the proposed new neighborhood districts. The planning commission is asked to review these
in advance and provide input to staff.
Background: The planning commission input to date has focused on the housing types and
dimensional standards such as lot sizes, setbacks, maximum height, and the zoning map and
district locations. Staff requests planning commission review and input regarding other uses to
allow, beyond just the types of housing. The list attached to this report includes principal uses,
such as educational facilities and places of worship, and accessory uses to any principal use
allowed within the district. The complete list is found in Chapter 36, Article IV, Division 4.
Also included in this report is a copy of the complete proposed draft ordinance. This draft
ordinance displays all of the proposed residential zoning district uses and standards the
planning commission and public has seen, and now in the proposed ordinance format. This
format includes easier to read tables to identify uses allowed in each district and the manner
they are allowed, such as permitted, permitted with standards, conditional use permit and
accessory. This format greatly simplifies the ordinance. It reduces the number of pages.
Reduces redundancy and unnecessarily variable regulations between the districts for the same
uses. And displays basic and relevant information that helps people understand similarities and
distinctions between districts and helps them identify which districts they may conduct uses.
Draft ordinance: The draft ordinance consists of the following four documents. The documents
are designed to replace in their entirety the existing articles/divisions of the code.
1.Article 1-General. This consists of general information that applies to the entire zoning
ordinance such as definitions. Definitions were added for the new housing types, and all
definitions that are currently scattered throughout the zoning ordinance are not
consolidated into this one list of definitions.
2.Article IV, Division 1 – Generally. This replaces the existing residential district names with
the proposed neighborhood names. No substantial changes to this division.
3.Article IV, Division 2 – Land Use. This division is updated to include the new housing types.
4.Article IV, Division 4 – Residential District Standards. This division replaces the current five
residential districts with the proposed four neighborhood districts and displays the allowed
uses and required standards in table format.
Next steps: The consultants and staff will present the community engagement summary, the
planning commission’s recommendation, and the complete draft amendments to the city
council on September 9, 2024. Staff will ask the city council for direction to proceed with having
the planning commission conduct the public hearing, then upon completion of the public
hearing, bringing the ordinance to the council for adoption.
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Study session of September 4, 2024 (Item No. 1)
Title: Discussion of Use tables for Zoning Code Update, Phase 1
2
Attachments: Draft ordinance
Prepared by: Gary Morrison, zoning administrator
Reviewed by: Sean Walther, planning manager/deputy community development director
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ARTICLE I. IN GENERAL
Division 1. INTRODUCTORY PROVISIONS
Sec. 36-1. Findings
The city council finds it necessary to accomplish the following:
(1)Protect the residential, business, industrial and public areas of the community and
maintain their stability.
(1)Promote the most appropriate and orderly development of the residential, business,
industrial and public areas.
(2)Provide adequate light, air and convenient access to property.
(3)Limit congestion in the public rights-of-way.
(4)Prevent overcrowding of land and undue concentration of structures by regulating
the use of land and buildings and the bulk of buildings in relation to the land
surrounding them.
(5)Provide for compatibility of different land uses.
(6)Require that development proceed according to the principles, goals, objectives,
implementation strategies, and land use designations established in the city's
comprehensive plan.
(7)Maintain a tax base necessary to the economic welfare of the city by insuring
optimum values for property in the city.
(8)Enhance the aesthetic character and appearance of the city.
(9)Conserve natural resources and environmental assets of the community.
(10)Provide adequate off-street parking and loading facilities.
(11)Define the powers and duties of the board of zoning appeals and the planning
commission.
(2)Provide effective administration of this chapter and any future amendments to the
ordinance from which this chapter is derived and prescribe penalties for the violation
of its requirements.
(3)Establish a continuing system of review of this chapter to ensure it will be amended
to meet the changing needs of the community and advances in science and the arts.
(Code 1976, § 14:1-1.2)
Sec. 36-2. Purpose and intent of chapter.
To implement these findings, the city council, through this chapter, establishes minimum
requirements to protect the public health, safety, morals, comfort, convenience and general
welfare of the people. This chapter shall divide the city into use districts and establish
regulations which control the location, erection, construction, reconstruction, alteration and
use of structures and land.
(Code 1976, § 14:2)
Sec. 36-3. Rule of construction.
(a)Construction. The following rules of construction govern the interpretation of the
language of this chapter:
(1)The singular number includes the plural and the plural the singular.
(2)The present tense includes the past and future tenses and the future includes the
present.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(3) The word "shall" is mandatory, and the word "may" is permissive.
Whenever a word or term which is defined in this chapter appears in the text of this chapter,
its meaning shall be that stated in the chapter definition. Words or terms which are not
defined in this chapter shall have the meaning found in the most recent edition of Webster's
Unabridged Dictionary. Words not defined in that dictionary shall have their ordinary, usual
meaning at the time the word or term is being applied to a zoning question or situation.
General words are construed to be restricted in their meaning by preceding particular words.
(b) Interpretation. The following rules apply to determine the boundaries of a zoning district
or the status of a land use:
(1) Zoning district boundaries.
a. In determining the location of zoning district boundaries, the zoning administrator
shall consider the provisions of section 36-114 . If these provisions are not
applicable and distances and dimensions are not labeled, the zoning
administrator shall determine the location of the line by scaling from the official
copy of the zoning map.
b. If the zoning administrator determines the location of the zoning district boundary
along a line which passes through a building or structure, the boundary line shall
be adjusted so that the line falls outside of the building or structure at a location
most compatible with the purpose and intent of this chapter.
(2) Land use.
a. The only uses which can be made are those uses listed in the district and these
are permitted only in the manner described by this chapter.
b. Any person seeking to establish a use of land or a building which is not
specifically listed in any of the use categories in this chapter may ask the zoning
administrator which category of use shall be applied. The zoning administrator's
decision will establish whether the proposed use is permitted under any of the
categories in this chapter. The zoning administrator shall consider functional
similarities between uses listed in this chapter and the proposed use including
nuisance characteristics, traffic, appearance and mode and hours of operation in
making this determination. The determination of the zoning administrator shall be
in writing and shall include a statement whether the use is designated as
"permitted," "permitted with conditions," "permitted as a conditional use" or
"permitted as an accessory use." If the zoning administrator determines that the
proposed use is not permitted under any category, that conclusion shall be stated
in the written determination.
(3) Appeal. Any decision of the zoning administrator determining zoning district
boundaries or permitted land uses may be appealed to the board of zoning appeals
under the provisions of subsection 36-31(a).
(4) Performance time; delivery and filing time. Where the performance or doing of any
act, duty, matter, payment or thing is ordered or directed and the period of time or
duration for the performance or doing thereof is described and fixed by this chapter,
the time shall be computed so as to exclude the first and include the last day of the
prescribed or fixed period or duration of time. When the last day of the period falls on
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
Saturday, Sunday, or a legal holiday, that day shall be omitted from the computation.
When an application, payment, drawing, contract or other document is to be
delivered to or filed with any department of the city or other unit of government on or
before a prescribed date and the prescribed date falls on a Saturday, Sunday, or
legal holiday, it is timely delivered or filed if it is delivered or filed on the next
succeeding day which is not a Saturday, Sunday, or legal holiday.
(5) Purpose of interpretation and construction of chapter. The object of all interpretation
and construction of this chapter is to ascertain and effectuate the intention of the city
council. This chapter shall be construed, if possible, to give effect to all the chapter
provisions. When the words of this chapter in their application to an existing situation
are clear and free from all ambiguity, the letter of this chapter shall not be
disregarded under the pretext of pursuing the spirit.
a. When the words of this chapter are not explicit, the intention of the city council
may be ascertained by considering, among other matters:
1. The occasion and necessity for this chapter or specific provision.
2. The circumstance under which it was enacted.
3. The mischief to be remedied.
4. The object to be attained.
5. The former zoning ordinance.
6. The consequences of a particular interpretation.
7. Administrative interpretations of this chapter and interpretations by the board
of zoning appeals and the city council.
b. In ascertaining the intention of the city council, the following presumptions apply:
1. The city council does not intend a result that is absurd, impossible of
execution, or unreasonable.
2. The city council intends the entire chapter to be effective and certain.
3. The city council does not intend to violate the Constitution of the United
States or the state constitution.
4. The city council intends to favor the public interest as against any private
interest.
(6) Grammatical errors. Grammatical errors shall not destroy the application of this
chapter. A transposition of words and clauses may be resorted to when a sentence is
without meaning as it stands. Words and phrases which may be necessary to the
proper interpretation of this chapter and which do not conflict with its obvious
purpose and intent, nor in any way affect its scope in operation, may be added in the
construction thereof.
(7) Provisos. Provisos shall be construed to limit rather than to extend the operation of
the clauses to which they refer. Exceptions expressed in this chapter shall be
construed to exclude all others.
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(8) Penalty; forfeiture. When a penalty or forfeiture is provided for the violation of this
chapter, such penalty or forfeiture shall be construed to be for each such violation.
Each day that a violation exists shall constitute a separate violation.
(9) Provision conflicts. When a general provision of this chapter conflicts with a special
provision in this chapter, the two shall be construed if possible so that effect shall be
given to both. If the conflict between the two provisions is irreconcilable, the special
provisions shall prevail and shall be construed as an exception to the general
provision unless the general provision was enacted subsequent to the special
provision and it shall be the manifest intention of the city council that such general
provisions shall prevail. When several clauses are irreconcilable, the chapter clause
last in order of date or position shall prevail. When the provisions of two or more
amendments to this chapter passed at different dates are irreconcilable, the
amendment latest in date of final enactment shall prevail.
(10) Amendment. When a section or part of the ordinance from which this chapter is
derived is amended, the amendment shall be construed as merging into the original
ordinance, becoming a part thereof, and replacing the part amended, and the
remainder of the original ordinance and the amendment shall be read together and
viewed as one ordinance passed at one time. The portions of this chapter which
were not altered by the amendment shall be construed as effective from the date of
the first enactment, and the new provision shall be construed as effective only from
the date when the amendment became effective. When this chapter adopts the
provisions of state statute by reference, it also adopts by reference any subsequent
amendments of that statute except when the intent of the city council is clearly to the
contrary. If two or more amendments to the same provision or this chapter are
enacted at the same or at different times, one amendment overlooking and making
no reference to the other, the amendments shall be construed together if possible
and effect be given to each. If the amendments are irreconcilable, the amendment
latest in date of final enactment shall prevail.
(11) Appendix. The appendix is for information purposes only and is not intended to
govern.
(12) Diagrams. Diagrams, where provided, are intended to be illustrative only and
may not be drawn to scale. Where a conflict exists between a diagram and text, the
text shall prevail.
(c) Separability. Provisions in this chapter are separable if the following events occur:
(1) If a court of competent jurisdiction finds any provision of this chapter to be invalid,
that judgment shall not affect any other provision of this chapter not specifically
included in the judgment.
(2) If a court of competent jurisdiction finds the application of any portion of this chapter
to a particular property, building, or other structure invalid, that judgment shall not
affect the application of the provision to any other property, building or structure not
specifically included in the judgment.
(3) If a court of competent jurisdiction finds any individual condition of a conditional use
permit invalid, that judgment shall not invalidate any other condition of the same
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
conditional use permit not specifically included in such judgment nor shall it
invalidate the application of the same condition in any other conditional use permit.
(d) Jurisdiction and authority.
(1) This chapter is enacted under the authority granted to the city in state statutes. If
those statutes are amended to restrict or enlarge the authority delegated to the city,
those amendments shall be incorporated into this chapter.
(2) Any action by the city to extend the time limit to process a zoning application in
accordance with Minn. Stat 15.99, as amended, may be taken administratively
without city council approval.
(3) This chapter governs the use of all land and structures in the city unless such
regulation is specifically preempted by state or federal statutes or regulations.
(Ord. No. 2419-12, 9-14-12)
(e) Application.
(1) Minimum requirements. The provisions of this chapter are the minimum requirements
for the promotion of the public health, safety, morals and general welfare.
(2) More restrictive applications. Where the conditions imposed by any provision of this
chapter are either more or less restrictive than comparable conditions imposed by
any other applicable law, ordinance, statute, resolution or regulation of any kind, the
regulations which are more restrictive, or which impose higher standards or
requirements shall control.
(3) Mixed use. All regulations applicable to each use in a mixed-use development shall
be applicable, except where the mixed use is approved under section 36-367 or
where parking is approved under subsection (b)(2)l. of section 36-361.
(4) Essential services. Essential services shall be permitted as authorized and regulated
by state law and ordinances of the city. Such essential services are exempt from the
application of this chapter, except when they are conducted in the FW, FF and FP
overlay districts.
(5) Measurement. All measured distance expressed in feet shall be to the nearest tenth
of a foot. The measurement of distances when required by this chapter shall be done
in a straight line in the plane located at a point one foot above the highest point in the
surface of the ground along the path of measurement, from the closest exterior wall
(extended vertically if a cantilever) of a building containing the use to the property
line of the adjacent street, district, or lot or other boundary line. If the use is not within
a building, the measurement shall be the shortest distance from the location of the
use to the property line of the adjacent street, district, or lot or other boundary line.
(Code 1976, § 14:2-0; Ord. No. 2419-12, 9-14-2012)
Sec. 36-4. Definitions.
The following words, terms and phrases, when used in this chapter, shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in this section, except where the context clearly indicates a different
meaning:
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Abandonment means to cease or discontinue a use or activity for any reason, but excluding
temporary interruptions to the use during periods of building or remodeling where a valid
building permit has been issued or during periods of routine seasonal closure.
(a) Abutting means having a common border or boundary with or being separated from such
a common border by an alley. This term is used interchangeably with adjacent and
adjoining.
Access aisle and aisle mean the traveled way by which vehicles enter and depart parking
spaces.
(b) Accessory use or structure means a use or a structure subordinate to the principal use
or structure on the same land and customarily incidental thereto. In the case of an
accessory structure, both the building footprint and building height of an accessory building
are smaller than the principal building.
(c) Adjacent means having a common border or boundary with or being separated from such a
common border by an alley. This term is used interchangeably with abutting and adjoining.
(d) Adjoining means having a common border or boundary with or being separated from such a
common border by an alley. This term is used interchangeably with abutting and adjacent.
Alley means a public right-of-way, with a width not exceeding 24 feet nor less than 12 feet
which affords a secondary means of access to property abutting the alley.
Alteration means any change, addition, or modification in construction or occupancy of an
existing structure or modification to the surface of the ground.
Basement means that portion of the building having more than half the ground floor-to-
ceiling height below the average grade of the adjoining ground.
(e) Berm means a land alteration where fill is added to the surface of the ground in order to
create an earthen mound or hill generally used in conjunction with walls, fences, or plant
materials to screen one parcel of land from another or from a street.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
Block front means the distance between intersections along one side of a street.
Boardinghouse means a building other than a motel or hotel where for compensation or by
prearrangement for definite periods, meals or lodging are provided for three or more
persons, but not to exceed eight persons.
Boulevard means that portion of a street right-of-way between the curbline and property line.
Building means any structure having a roof which may provide shelter or enclosure of
persons, animals or personal property.
Building face means that portion of the exterior wall of a structure which shall lie in a vertical
plane. One face shall be terminated by an exterior angle of at least 210 degrees formed by
two exterior walls each being at least 18 feet in length or a curved portion of such exterior
wall which shall have a central angle of 30 degrees or more.
Building face, Front means the elevation of a principal building that is oriented toward the
front lot line. On a corner lot, the front face may be oriented toward the front lot line or a side
lot line adjacent to a street. Typically, the front face of the principal building contains an entry
to the building and that entrance is more architecturally prominent when viewed from public
streets. Said entrance does not include an overhead garage door. When it is ambiguous, the
zoning administrator determines which is the front face of the building.
Building face, Rear means the elevation of a principal building that is opposite the front face
of the same principal building.
Caliper inch means a unit of measurement describing the diameter of a tree measured one
foot above the finished grade level.
Canopy tree means a deciduous tree planted primarily for its high crown of foliage or
overhead canopy.
Carport means a space for the housing or storage of motor vehicles and enclosed on not
more than two sides.
Channel means the natural or artificial depression of perceptible extent along Minnehaha
Creek with a definite bed and bank to confine and conduct flowing water, either continuously
or periodically.
City means the City of St. Louis Park, a municipal corporation, along with its duly authorized
boards, commissions and representatives.
Commercial vehicle. A motor vehicle is a commercial vehicle if:
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(1) The vehicle is a dumptruck, a step van, a tow truck, a semitractor or trailer, a tank
truck, a tractor, a bus, a cargo truck, a construction vehicle or equipment, an earth-
moving vehicle or equipment, a van or pickup with a manufacturer's nominal rated
carrying capacity of more than one ton, or any other vehicle which is used in
connection with commercial activities;
(2) Commercial equipment has been added to the vehicle such as winches or snow
plows;
(3) Commercial racks have been added to the vehicle for the purpose of holding
equipment or materials;
(4) The vehicle is a pickup with a nonstandard pickup box; or
(5) The vehicle is a trailer loaded with another commercial vehicle or commercial
equipment.
Conditional use means a specific type of structure or land use which is permitted by this
chapter only after an in-depth review procedure set forth in section 36-33 and with
appropriate conditions or restrictions as provided in this chapter and upon finding that:
(1) Certain conditions as detailed in this chapter exist; and
(2) The structure and land use conform to the comprehensive plan and are compatible
with the existing neighborhood.
Condominium means an estate of real property consisting of an undivided interest in
common with other purchasers in a portion of a parcel of real property, together with a
separate interest in space in a building. A condominium may include, in addition, a separate
interest in other portions of such real property, such as garage space or in the case of
cluster development, a townhouse or cluster development lot.
Curb level means the grade elevation, as established by the city, at the curb in front of the
center of the building. Where no curb level has been established, the director of public
works shall determine a curb level or its equivalent for the purpose of this chapter.
Customer floor area means that part of the gross floor area of a commercial establishment
used by and accessible to the public, except public restrooms.
Deciduous means a plant with foliage that is shed annually.
Density means the number of dwelling units permitted per net acre of land.
Designed Outdoor Recreational Area means designed outdoor space intended for passive
or active recreation accessible and suited to the needs of residents and/or employees. The
area shall be functional and aesthetic, designed with clear edges, relate to the principal
building or buildings, include sidewalk connections, seating, landscaping, and other
amenities. The area should be compatible with or enlarge upon existing pedestrian links
and public parks or open space and may include swimming pools, tot lots, courtyards,
plazas, picnic areas, and trails within natural areas. Outdoor recreational areas shall not
include driveways, parking areas, steep slopes, or ponds designed solely for stormwater
retention. (Ord. No. 2267-04, 4-12-04)
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Development means all structures, land uses, and other modifications of the existing
landscape above and below ground or water, on a single parcel, or on more than one parcel
if covered by a single planned unit development or conditional use permit.
Diameter at breast height (DBH) means the diameter of a tree measured at a height of 4 1/2
feet from the ground level.
District. See the definition, "Use district."
Driveway means an improved access which connects an off-street parking space to the
public right-of-way.
Dog kennel means any premises where four or more dogs, over four months of age, are
owned, boarded, bred or offered for sale.
Drip line means a vertical line extending from the outermost branches of a tree to the
ground.
(f) Dwelling means a building, or one or more parts of a building occupied or intended to be
occupied exclusively for residence purposes, but not including rooms in motels, hotels,
nursing homes, boardinghouses, trailers, tents, cabins or trailer coaches.
Dwelling unit means one or more rooms physically arranged so as to create an independent
housekeeping establishment for occupancy by one family with separate toilets and facilities
for cooking and sleeping.
Easement means the grant of one or more of the property rights by the owner to, or for the
use by, the public, public utility, corporation, or another person or entity.
Effective date of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived means December 31,
1992, the effective date of Ordinance No. 92-1902.
Enclosed pedestrian walkway means an enclosed link at or above grade between two
buildings on the same or separate lots designed solely for the purpose of transporting
pedestrians.
Equal degree of encroachment means a method of determining the location of
encroachment lines so that the hydraulic capacity of floodplain lands on each side of a
stream are reduced by an equal amount when calculating the increases in flood stages due
to floodplain encroachments.
Essential services include, but are not limited to, underground or overhead gas, electrical,
steam or water transmission or distribution systems; collection, communication, supply or
disposal systems including poles, wires, mains, drains, sewers, pipes, conduits, fire alarm
boxes, police call boxes, traffic signals, hydrants, or other equipment and accessories in
conjunction therewith, bridges, roads, and railroads.
(g) Evergreen means a plant with foliage that persists and remains green year-round.
Excavation means the removal of soil, rock, minerals, debris or organic substances other
than vegetation from a parcel of land.
Expansion means an increase in the floor area or volume of an existing building.
Facade means the exterior wall of a building exposed to public view
Family means one of the following
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(1) Any group of people living together as a single housekeeping unit, all of whom are
related by blood, marriage, or adoption plus children who are under foster care.
(2) Up to four people not so related, living together as a single housekeeping unit.
(3) Any group of people living together as a single housekeeping unit, if no more than
two adult members function as the heads of the household group and the remaining
members are dependent upon them for care and direction due to age, physical
disability, a mental incompetency or for other reasons.
(4) Any individual, who is the owner, living and maintaining a common household and
using a common cooking and kitchen facility.
Fence means any artificially constructed barrier of any material or combination of materials
erected to enclose, divide or screen areas of land.
Filling means the placement of sand, gravel, earth or other materials of any composition on
a parcel of land. Also see the definition, "Land reclamation."
Floor area means the sum of the gross horizontal areas of the several floors of a building
including interior balconies, mezzanines, basements, attics, penthouses, and attached
accessory buildings. Measurements shall be made from the inside of exterior walls and to
the center of interior walls. For the purposes of determining off-street parking requirements,
inside off-street parking or loading space is excluded from floor area.
(h) Floor area ratio (FAR) means the numerical value obtained by dividing the total floor area of
buildings excluding the basement by the lot area on which such buildings are located.
Food waste means all food, including meat, poultry, seafood, dairy, bread, fruits and
vegetables, cheese, eggshells, rice, beans, pasta, coffee grounds and filters, tea bags,
bones and other plate scrapings, and garden food waste (e.g. tomatoes, pumpkins). (Ord.
No. 2452-14, 5-2-2014)
Foster family home means a family home where children out of their own homes are cared
for 24 hours a day for a period of 30 days or more.
Garage, private, means a detached accessory building or portion of the principal building,
including a carport, which is situated on the same lot as the principal building used primarily
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
for storing motor vehicles with no facilities for mechanical service or repair of a commercial
nature.
Grade means the average elevation of the finished ground level at the midpoint of all walls
of a building, or in the case of signs, the average elevation of the finished ground level at the
base of a sign. This definition includes the terms finished grade and mean ground level.
Grading means excavating, filling or other changes in the earth's natural topography,
including stockpiling of earth or land.
Ground cover means plants, other than turf grass, normally reaching an average maximum
height of not more than 18 inches at maturity.
Ground floor area means the lot area covered by a building measured from the exterior
faces of exterior walls but excluding decks and terraces and detached garages which do not
exceed 15 feet in height.
Ground Floor Transparency means the measurement of the percentage of a facade that has
highly transparent, low reflectance windows at the pedestrian level, measured between 2’
and 8’ above grade. (Ord. No. 2575-19, 11 -18-19)
Hedge means a landscape barrier consisting of a continuous, dense planting of shrubs.
(i) Height – Accessory building. A distance to be measured from the first story elevation, as
defined by building code, to the highest point of the structure.
(j) Height – Accessory structure. A distance to be measured from the lowest exterior grade at
the base of the structure to the highest point of the structure.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(k) Height-Communication Towers and Antennas. The height of a communication tower or
antenna which is not attached to a building shall be determined by measuring the vertical
distance from the point of contact with the ground of the communication tower or antenna to
the highest point of the communication tower, or antenna, including, in the case of a
communication tower, all antennas and other attachments.
(l) Height – Principal building. A distance to be measured from the mean curb level along the
front lot line or from the finished grade level for all that portion of the structure having
frontage on a public right-of-way whichever is higher to the top of the parapet of a flat roof;
to the deck line of a mansard roof; to a point on the roof directly above the highest wall of a
shed roof; to the upper most point on a round or other arch type roof; or to the mean
distance of the highest gable on a pitched or hip roof.
(m) Impervious surface means a surface that has been compacted or covered with a layer of
material so that it is highly resistant to infiltration by water. It includes surfaces such as
compacted sand, limerock, or clay, as well as most conventionally surfaced streets, roofs,
sidewalks, parking lots, and other similar structures.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
Intensity classification means a measure of the magnitude and impact of a land use on the
environment and neighboring land uses. Variables include, but are not limited to, the levels
of traffic that are generated, degree of lot coverage, building height, impervious surface, and
density of development.
Intoxicating liquor license (on-sale) means an on-sale liquor license issued by the city
council which permits the sale and consumption on the licensed premises of all types of
legal liquor including spirits, wine, and malt liquor.
Irrigation system means a permanent, artificial watering system designed to transport and
distribute water to plants.
Land reclamation means the reclaiming of land by depositing fill material to elevate the
grade. See the definition, "Filling."
Level of service means the traffic capacity of an intersection or roadway based upon criteria
established by the Institute of Traffic Engineers, as amended periodically.
Lot means a parcel of land created by an existing subdivision or described on a deed which
has been recorded in the office of the register of deeds or registrar of titles of the county and
which is occupied or used or intended for occupancy or use and has common ownership in
its entirety.
Lot area means the area of a lot in a horizontal plane bounded by the lot lines.
(n) Lot, buildable, means a lot which meets the minimum lot width and area requirements of the
use district in which it is located, and which has frontage on a right-of-way for street or alley
purposes. If the lot was subdivided as part of a cluster housing development, access to a
public street may be by private street.
Lot area per family means the number of square feet of lot area required per dwelling unit.
Lot, corner, means a lot situated at the junction of, and abutting on two or more intersecting
streets, or a lot at a point of deflection in alignment of a continuous street, the interior angle
of which does not exceed 135 degrees.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
Lot depth means the mean horizontal distance between the front lot line and the rear lot line
of a lot.
Lot, interior, means a lot other than a corner lot.
Lot line means the property line bounding a lot except that where any portion of a lot
extends into the public right-of-way, street easement, or a proposed public right-of-way, the
line of such public right-of-way or street easement shall be the lot line for applying this
chapter.
Lot line, front, means that boundary of a lot which abuts a street. In the case of a corner lot,
it shall be the shortest dimension on a public street. If the dimensions of a corner lot are
equal, the front lot line shall be designated by the owner and filed in the office of the division
of inspections. If a parcel has multiple sides on more than two street frontages, the front lot
line shall be determined by the zoning administrator.
Lot line, rear, means a lot line not intersecting a front lot line that is most distant from and
most closely parallel to the front lot line. For a lot bounded by only three lot lines, the rear lot
line shall be a line ten feet in length within the lot, parallel to and at the maximum distance
from the front lot line.
Lot line, side, means a lot line which intersects with a front lot line.
Lot of record means any lot which is one parcel of a plat heretofore or hereafter duly
approved and filed, or one unit of an auditor's subdivision or a registered land survey or a
parcel of land not so platted, subdivided or registered, for which a deed, auditor's
subdivision or registered land survey has been recorded in the office of the register of deeds
or registrar of titles for the county prior to the effective date of the ordinance from which this
chapter is derived.
Lot, substandard, means a lot or parcel of land that does not meet the definition of a
buildable lot or does not meet the provisions of section 36-71.
Lot, through, means a lot which has a pair of opposite lot lines abutting two substantially
parallel streets, and which is not a corner lot.
Lot width means the horizontal distance between the side lot lines measured at the required
front yard line.
Manufactured home means a structure, transportable in one or more sections, which, in the
traveling mode, is eight body feet or more in width or 40 body feet or more in length, or,
when erected on site, is 320 square feet or more, and which is built on a permanent chassis
and designed to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent foundation when
connected to the required utilities, and includes the plumbing, heating, air conditioning, and
electrical systems contained therein; except that the term includes any structure which
meets all the requirements and with respect to which the manufacturer voluntarily files a
certification required by the secretary and complies with the standards established under
state law.
Mining means the extraction and removal of sand, gravel, or other earthen material from a
parcel of land.
Mobile Food Vehicle means a vehicle or cart used to prepare and serve food and/or
beverages.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
Motor vehicle means every vehicle which is self-propelled. This does not include lawn
mowers or snow blowers.
Mulch means nonliving organic, synthetic, and rock materials customarily used in landscape
design to retard erosion and retain moisture.
(o) Nonconforming means a situation where any development, structure, sign, site lighting, off-
street parking lot, landscaping, land use or parcel was legally constructed or established
prior to the effective date of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived, or subsequent
amendment to it, which is not in full compliance with the regulations of this chapter.
(p) Nonconforming parking means parking which legally existed upon the effective date of the
ordinance from which this chapter is derived and which did not comply with the numerical
requirements of section 36-361 or with the design requirements found in the landscaping
section of this chapter.
Nonpassenger vehicle means a commercial or recreational vehicle or trailer.
(q) Open Lot Area means an area of a lot, not located within a front yard or side yard abutting a
street that has a minimum dimension of 20 feet in all directions and does not include a
building, driveway, outdoor storage, or parking space. Open covered porches, gazebos,
decks, and patios are permitted encroachments into the open lot area. Swimming pools are
permitted encroachments provided they do not occupy more than 50% of the open lot area.
Ordinance from which this chapter is derived means Ordinance No. 92-1902 adopted
December 7, 1992 and effective December 31, 1992.
(r) Organic material means Food waste, Yard waste and items such as, but not limited to: non-
recyclable paper products, and other compostable items such as full vacuum cleaner bags,
dryer lint, tissues and cotton balls, floral trimmings and house plants, and compostable
plastics (certified compostable plastic utensils, cups and containers).
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. (Ord. No. 2255-03, 11-3-03)
Ornamental tree means any tree planted primarily for its ornamental value or for screening
purposes and tends to be smaller at maturity than canopy trees.
Parcel. See the definition, "Lot."
Parking space means an improved paved or gravel area on a lot or area within a building
intended for parking of a motor vehicle and which has a means of access to a public street.
This term is used interchangeably with parking stall and parking facility.
Passenger vehicle means an automobile, station wagon, van, sports utility vehicle, minivan,
pickup truck, or motorcycle designed and primarily intended for on-street operation.
Passenger vehicles do not include commercial vehicles, recreational vehicles, racing cars or
stock cars.
Performance standards means specified criteria and limitations which are placed on
development which are intended to protect the public health, safety, or welfare.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
Person means an individual, firm, partnership, corporation, company, association, society,
joint stock association, or political subdivision of the state including any trustee, receiver,
assignee or other representative thereof.
Pickup truck means any truck with a manufacturer's nominal rated carrying capacity of one
ton or less and commonly known as a pickup or pickup truck and which has a standard
manufactured pickup box. A pickup whose standard box is covered with a topper if the
topper does not exceed 1 1/2 times the wall height of the standard box is a pickup truck.
Playfield means an outdoor facility developed as a baseball diamond, softball diamond,
soccer field, football field, or other surface for conducting outdoor recreational activities.
Previous zoning ordinance means Ordinance No. 730 adopted December 28, 1959 and all
subsequent amendments thereto which were in effect on December 30, 1992.
Principal building means a building or group of buildings in which the primary use of a lot is
located.
Principal use means the main use and chief purpose of land or structures, as distinguished
from a secondary or accessory use.
(s) Proof of parking means a method by which an area of a lot other than that area required for
yards, landscaping, or any other area required for other purposes by this chapter which is
allocated for parking but is not paved or striped.
Racing car means a motor vehicle designed or intended for operation on a speedway,
racetrack, or other facility used or designed for high-speed contests between two or more
vehicles or for timing of speed.
Recreational vehicle.
(1) Travel trailers include those that telescope or fold down, chassis-mounted campers,
house cars, motor homes, tent trailers, slip in campers and converted vans that are
motor homes as defined in this definition.
(2) Motor home is a vehicle that provides temporary living quarters. A vehicle provides
temporary living quarters if it is:
a. Not used as the residence of the owner or occupant;
b. Used for temporary living quarters by the owner or occupant while engaged in
recreational or vacation activities; and
c. Self-propelled or capable of being towed on public roads.
(3) A nonmotorized trailer intended and generally used for transporting boats.
Snowmobiles, all-terrain vehicles, boats and any type of watercraft. Such vehicles which are
placed on a utility trailer shall, together with the trailer, be considered a single recreational
vehicle.
(t) Right-of-way means an area or strip of land, either public or private, on which a right-of-
passage has been recorded for the use of vehicles, including trains, or pedestrians or both.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
Root zone means the part of the soil that is invaded by a plant's roots.
Screen means a method of reducing the impact of noise and unsightly visual intrusions by
placing vertical elements, such as plants, berms, fences, walls, or any appropriate
combination thereof between the incompatible land uses. (Ord. No. 2325-07, 05-07-07)
Self-Storage Facility means any real property designed and used for the purpose of renting
or leasing individual storage space to individuals, organizations, or businesses who are to
have access to such facility for the purpose of storing and removing personal property; a
self-storage facility is not a warehouse/storage facility. (Ord. No. 2570-19, 9-16-19)
Service stall means the area within a motor fuel station or auto repair facility of adequate
size to service one motor vehicle. A service stall shall have a maximum floor area of 400
square feet. This term is synonymous with service bay.
Shopping Center means a group of commercial uses planned, owned, and managed as a
unit that has common parking facilities. Shopping centers may include more than one
building and more than one contiguous property and owner if approved under a single
conditional use permit or planned unit development. This use includes vendor markets. (Ord.
No. 2598-20, 11 -16-20)
Short-term rental means leasing a residential dwelling unit or accessory dwelling unit for a
term of less than one month. (Ord. 2596-20, 10-19-20)
Shrub means a self-supporting woody perennial plant, smaller than a tree, consisting of
several small stems from the ground or small branches near the ground; may be deciduous
or evergreen, and usually not more than ten feet in height at its maturity.
Significant tree means any tree, with the exception of Salix (Willow), Boxelder, Siberian Elm
and Black Locust, is considered to be significant under the landscaping section of the zoning
ordinance if it is at least five caliper inches for deciduous trees and six caliper inches for
conifers. Aspen, Cottonwood or Silver Maple are considered significant if they are at least
12 inches in diameter at 4.5 feet from the ground. (Ord. No. 2325-07, 5-7-07; Ord. No. 2449-
13, 11-15-2013)
Site plan means a plan, prepared to scale, showing accurately and with complete
dimensioning, the boundaries of a site and the location of all buildings, structures, uses, and
principal site development features proposed for a specific parcel of land.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
Stand and standing mean any halting, even momentarily, of a vehicle, whether occupied or
not, otherwise than temporarily for the purpose of and while actually engaged in receiving or
discharging passengers or property.
Stock car means a motor vehicle of standard design and construction which is modified,
adapted or altered in any manner to increase its speed or safety, and designed or intended
for operation on a speedway, racetrack, or other facility used or designed for high-speed
contests between two or more vehicles or for timing of speed.
Story means that portion of a building included between the surface of any floor and the
surface of the floor next above; or if there is not a floor above, the space between the floor
and the ceiling next above. A basement shall not be counted as a story.
Street means a public or private thoroughfare with a minimum right-of-way width of 24 feet
which is used, or intended to be used, for passage or travel by motor vehicles. Streets are
further classified in the comprehensive plan by the functions they perform. See illustration
following this definition.
(1) Local street. Roadways typically having lowest traffic volumes, containing one lane of
traffic in each direction whose primary function is to provide access to and from
property.
(2) Minor collector. Roadways containing one lane of traffic in each direction whose
primary function is to provide access to and from neighborhoods and the local street
system.
(3) Major collector. Roadways containing one or two lanes of traffic in each direction with
controlled intersections whose function is to serve long trips within the city and
access to and from minor and principal arterials.
(4) Minor arterials. Interregional roads containing two lanes in each direction with limited
access and controlled intersections at other arterials and collector streets. Minor
arterials convey traffic between towns, boroughs, or other urban centers and are
used to reduce the number of trips on the regional system. Efficient movement is the
primary function of a minor arterial road.
(5) Principal arterials. Limited access interregional arterial routes containing two or more
lanes in each direction. They are designed exclusively for unrestricted movement,
have no private access, and intersect only with selected arterial highways or major
streets by means of interchanges engineered for free-flowing movement.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(u) Structure means anything constructed or erected, the use of which requires a location on
the ground or attached to something having a location on the ground, including but without
limiting the generality of the foregoing, advertising signs, billboards and fences.
Trailer means any vehicle designed for carrying property on its own structure and for being
drawn by a motor vehicle.
Trailer bed means that portion of a trailer that is designed to make contact with and bear the
weight of the load to be carried.
Tree means a self-supporting woody perennial plant having one or several self-supporting
stems or trunks and numerous branches which normally attains an overall height of at least
15 feet at maturity. Trees may be classified as deciduous or evergreen.
Truck means every motor vehicle designed, used or maintained primarily for the
transportation of property. This definition does not include a pickup truck as defined in this
section or a van with a manufacturer's nominal rated carrying capacity of one ton or less.
Understory trees means a self-supporting woody plant or species normally growing to a
mature height of between 15 and 30 feet and a mature spread of at least 15 feet. Many
understory trees are considered to be ornamental trees.
Undue hardship means a condition resulting when reasonable use cannot be made of a
property if used under conditions allowed by the official control, the plight of the landowner is
due to circumstances unique to his property not created by the landowner, and the variance,
if granted, will not alter the essential character of the locality. Economic considerations alone
shall not constitute an undue hardship if reasonable use for the property exists under the
terms of this chapter.
Use means the purpose or activity for which a premises is designed, arranged or intended
for which it is or may be occupied or maintained.
Use district means a mapped area within the city to which a uniform set of regulations
applies for the purpose of regulating development.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
Uses, nonconforming, means any building or land lawfully occupied by a use at the time of
the passage of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived or of amendments thereof
which does not conform after the passage of the ordinance from which this chapter is
derived or an amendment thereto with the use regulations of the district in which it is
located. See the definition, "Nonconforming."
Variance means a modification or variation of the provisions of this zoning code as applied
to a specific piece of property. (Ord. No. 2409-12, 1-27-12)
Vegetation, native, means any plant species with a geographic distribution indigenous to all
or part of the state. Plant species which have been introduced by man are not native
vegetation.
Vehicle means a device for carrying or conveying persons or property which may be self-
propelled or may be propelled, drawn, or towed by a self-propelled vehicle.
Wetland means an area that is inundated or saturated by surface water or groundwater at a
frequency and duration sufficient to support, and that, under normal circumstances, does
support a prevalence of vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions,
commonly known as hydrophytic vegetation.
Wind energy conversion system (WECS) means all necessary devices that together convert
wind energy into electricity, including the rotor, nacelle, generator, tower, electrical
components, foundation, transformer, and electrical cabling from the tower to building or
substation(s) and their support facilities.
Wind energy conversion system, building mounted means a wind energy conversion system
that is attached to a building for structural support.
Wind energy conversion system tower means a support structure to which the nacelle and
rotor are attached.
Wind energy conversion system height means the distance measured from the lowest
exterior grade at the base of the WECS to the highest point of any component of a WECS.
(v) Yard means a required open space on a lot, which is unoccupied and unobstructed by a
structure from its lowest ground level to the sky except as expressly permitted in this
chapter. For principal buildings, structures, and uses, the yard shall extend along a lot line
and at right angles to the lot line to a depth or width specified in the yard regulations for the
district in which the lot is located. For accessory buildings, structures, and uses, the yard
shall extend from the property line to the principal building, structure, or use.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(w)
Yard, front, means:
a. For principal buildings, structures, and/or uses is an area which extends along the full
width of the front lot line between side lot lines and toward the rear lot line a depth as
specified in the required yard regulations for the district in which such lot is located.
b. For accessory building, structures, and/or uses is the area of a lot which extends the full
width of the lot between the front face of the principal building and the lot line adjacent to
the street right-of-way in front of the principal building.
Yard, rear, means:
a. For principal buildings, structures, and/or uses is an area which extends along the full
width of the rear lot line between the side lot lines and toward the front lot line a depth as
specified in the required yard regulations for the district in which the lot is located. Where
the lot is a corner lot, the rear yard shall be the area between the interior side lot line and
the side yard abutting a street extending toward the front yard a depth as specified in the
required yard regulations for the district in which the lot is located.
b. For accessory buildings, structures, and/or uses is the area of a lot extending the full
width of the lot behind a line created by extending the rear face of the principal building
to the property lines located to the sides of the principal building.
Yard, side, means:
a. For principal buildings, structures, and/or uses is an area extending along a side lot line
between the front yard and rear yard, having a width as specified in the required yard
regulations for the district in which the lot is located.
b. For accessory buildings, structures, and/or uses is the area of a lot between the front
and back yards as required for accessory buildings, structures, and uses.
Yard, side, abutting a street, means:
a. For principal building, structures, and/or uses is a yard adjacent to a street which
extends along a side lot line between the front yard and rear property line. The required
width of the side yard abutting a street is specified in the dimensional standards of the
district in which the yard is located.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
b. For accessory buildings, structures, and/or uses is a side yard as required for accessory
buildings, structures, and uses which is adjacent to a street.
Yard waste means all garden wastes, grass clippings, leaves, weeds, holiday trees, shrub
and tree waste and prunings, seasonal greenery, and woodchips that are normally
generated from residential properties.
Zoning ordinance means Ordinance No. 92-1902 and all amendments adopted subsequent
to that date and compiled as Chapter 36 of this Code.
Sec. 36-5. Abbreviations.
(a) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to identify the abbreviations which are used in
this chapter in order to clarify meaning.
(b) Abbreviations.
(1) BOZA Board of zoning appeals
(2) DBH Diameter at breast height
(3) DU Dwelling unit
(4) FAR Floor area ratio
(5) PUD Planned unit development
(6) FW Floodway district
(7) FF Flood fringe district
(8) FP General floodplain district
(Code 1976, § 14:3-2)
Sec. 36-6. – 36-29. Reserved.
40
ARTICLE IV. ZONING DISTRICTS
Division 1. Generally
Sec. 36-111. Use Districts Established
All land in the city shall be assigned to one of the following zoning districts:
(1) Parks and Open Space District. POS park and open space district, see section 36-151.
(2) Residential districts.
a. N-1 Neighborhood District, see Article IV, Division 4.
b. N-2 Neighborhood District see Article IV, Division 4.
c. N-3 Neighborhood District, see Article IV Division 4.
d. N-4 Neighborhood District, see Article IV, Division 4.
(3) Commercial districts.
a. C-1 neighborhood business district, see section 36-193.
b. C-2 general commercial district, see section 36-194.
(4) Office district. O office district, see section 36-223.
(5) Business Park district. BP Business park district, see section 36-231.
(6) Industrial districts.
a. I-P industrial park district, see section 36-243.
b. I-G general industrial district, see section 36-244.
(7) Mixed use districts.
a. MX-1 vertical mixed use district, see section 36-264.
b. MX-2 neighborhood mixed use district, see section 36-265.
(8) Planned Unit Development (PUD) District, See Section 36-32.
(Code 1976, § 14:5-1.1; Ord. No. 2462-15, 2-2-15; Ord. No. 2598-20, 11-16-20)
Sec. 36-112. Overlay districts established.
Overlay districts are as follows:
(1) FW floodway district, see section 36-294.
(2) FF flood fringe district, see section 36-294.
(3) FP general floodplain district, see section 36-294.
(4) TDM travel demand management district, see sections 36-321 through 36-330.
(5) (Code 1976, § 14:5-1.2)
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
Sec. 36-113. Map.
The boundaries of the use districts listed in section 36-111 are shown on the zoning map, as
amended. The map is certified by the city clerk and is stored in the office of community
development and is referred to as the "zoning map" or "map," in this chapter. The map and all of
the notations, references and other information shown on it shall have the same force and effect
as if fully set forth in this chapter and are hereby made a part of this chapter by reference.
(Code 1976, § 14:5-1.3)
Sec. 36-114. Boundaries
District boundary lines indicated on the zoning map follow lot lines, the center lines of streets or
alleys projected, railroad right-of-way lines, the center of watercourses, or the corporate limit
lines as they exist upon the effective date of the ordinance from which this chapter is derived. If
use district boundary lines do not follow any of the above-described lines, the use district
boundary lines are established as drawn on the zoning map. Where a district boundary line
divides a lot of record which was in single ownership at the time of enactment of the ordinance
from which this chapter is derived and places portions of such lot of record in two or more use
districts, any portion of such lot within 50 feet on either side of dividing district boundary line
may be used for any use permitted in either use district. If the lot shall be wider than the 50-foot
limitation, the use district line as shown shall prevail.
(1) Appeals from the zoning administrator's determination and questions of doubt
concerning the exact location of district boundary lines shall be heard by the board of
zoning appeals.
(2) Whenever any street, alley or other public way is vacated by official action of the city, the
location of the zoning district line shall not be affected by such proceeding.
(3) A determination of whether a property is within the boundaries of the FW, FF or FP
district shall be made by the zoning administrator. Any person objecting to that
determination may appeal to the zoning administrator by submitting a topographic
survey which includes the contour of the flood protection elevation and the location and
elevation of all proposed structures. The zoning administrator may change the
determination based on the topographic survey, but the zoning administrator shall notify
the commissioner of the state department of natural resources at least ten days before
granting the permit. Provisions for the modification of floodplain district boundaries are
contained in division 8 of article IV of this chapter.
(Code 1976, § 14:5-1.4)
Sec. 36-115. Land use by zoning district.
a. Designation and reference. The land uses listed in this section are specifically
designated and refer to the detailed listing of land uses contained in section 36-142
et seq.
b. Land uses permitted. Land uses listed as "permitted" are permitted by the general
land use requirements of this chapter; subject to the general requirements of the
specific zoning district in which they are located, any additional requirements
imposed by applicable overlay zoning districts as designated on the official zoning
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
map, the general requirements of this chapter, and any and all other applicable city,
county, state and federal regulations as may be amended from time to time.
c. Land uses permitted with conditions. Land uses listed as "permitted with conditions”
are subject to all the requirements of land uses permitted by right plus those
additional controls which are listed following the specific land use. Land uses
permitted with conditions do not require a public hearing process.
d. Land uses permitted as a conditional use. Land uses listed as "permitted as a
conditional use" are permitted subject to all the requirements applicable to uses
permitted by right plus all general conditional use and any additional requirements
applicable to that particular land use contained in divisions 3 through 6 of this article
and those general conditions contained under section 36-33. Each conditional use
application shall be considered a unique situation and shall not be construed as
precedents for similar requests. Further conditions may be imposed on any
conditional use by the planning commission or city council in response to special
conditions of the use or site. (Ord. No. 2419-12, 9-14-2012)
e. Land uses permitted as accessory uses. Land uses listed as "permitted as an
accessory use" are permitted subject to all of the requirements applicable to uses
permitted by right, plus any additional requirements applicable to that particular land
use contained in divisions 3 through 6 of this article. Accessory uses other than
required off-street parking may not occupy more than 25 percent of the total floor
area of any development unless further restricted in the district regulations. (Ord. No.
2462-15, 2-2-2015)
f. Land uses permitted as temporary uses. Temporary land uses are permitted subject
to all the requirements applicable to uses permitted by right as listed in subsection
(b) of this section, plus any additional requirements applicable to that particular land
use as contained in section 36-82. (Ord. No. 2462-15, 2-2-2015)
g. Land uses permitted in limited stories. Land uses listed as “permitted in limited
stories” are permitted subject to all the requirements of land uses permitted by right
plus those additional controls which specify the story of a building the use can occur.
Land uses permitted in limited stories do not require a public hearing process. (Ord.
2560-19, 6-17-19)
h. Full compliance necessary. Although a land use may be indicated as permitted by
right, permitted with conditions, or permitted as a conditional use in a particular use
district, it does not follow that such a land use is permitted or permissible on every
parcel in such use district. No land use is permitted or permissible on a parcel unless
it can be located thereon in full compliance with all of the standards and regulations
of this chapter which are applicable to the specific land use and parcel in question, or
unless an appropriate variance has been granted under section 36-34.
(Ord. No. 2462-15, 2-2-2015)
TABLE 36-115A – (Repealed, Ord. No. 2312-06, 4-14-2006)
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
TABLE 36-115C Intensity Class Measures
Maximum
Density
Factor
(DU/Acre)
Maximum
Impervious
Surface
Ratio
Maximum
Floor Area
Ratio
Maximum
Height (in
feet)
Maximum
Trips/
AC./Day
Gross
Building
Area
Hours of
Operation
Resultant Land
Use Intensity
Class
Residential
uses
9 -- -- 30 100 2,000 Class 1
All other
uses
-- 0.30 0.15 30 100 2,000 6:00 a.m./
6:00 p.m.
Residential
uses
15 -- -- 35 300 5,000 -- Class 2
All uses -- 0.40 0.25 35 300 5,000 6:00 a.m./
10:00
p.m.
All uses 20 0.60 0.50 40 650 10,000 6:00 a.m/
12:00
p.m.
Class 3
All uses 30 0.70 0.80 50 1,000 20,000 6:00 a.m./
12:00
p.m.
Class 4
All uses 40 0.80 1.00 75 1,500 50,000 24 hours Class 5
All uses 50 0.90 1.40 150 2,500 100,000 24 hours Class 6
All uses 50+ 0.90+ 1.40+ 150+ 2,500+ 100,000+ Class 7
*Based on Institution of Transportation Engineers' Trip Generation manual.
Note: The column showing the highest land use intensity class will determine the land use intensity for the land use.
TABLE 36-115D Open Space Requirements
(Code 1976, § 14:5-2.1; Ord. No. 2192-01, 3-5-2001; Ord. No. 2220-02, § 2, 3-18-2002; Ord.
No. 2226-02, § 2, 6-3-2002; Ord. No. 2228-02, § 2, 7-15-2002; Ord. No. 2234-02, § 2, 12-2-
2002; Ord. No. 2239-03, 4-7-2003; Ord. No. 2267-04, 4-12-2004; Ord. No. 2312-06, 4-14-06;
Ord. No. 2419-12, 9-14-2012; Ord. No. 2560-19, 6-17-19; Ord. No. 2598-20, 11-16-20)
Secs. 36-116 – 36-140. Reserved.
C1-Neighborhood Commercial NA NA 12% DORA 12% DORA NA NA
C2-General Commercial NA NA 12% DORA 12% DORA NA NA
O-Office NA NA 12% DORA 12% DORA NA NA
MX-1 Vertical Mixed Use NA NA 12% DORA 12% DORA 12% DORA 12% DORA
Reductions may be allowed via the PUD process, if the development meets certain criteria.
OLA = Open Lot Area DORA = Designed Outdoor Recreation Area
44
ARTICLE IV. ZONING DISTRICTS
Division 2. Land Use Descriptions and Characteristics
Sec. 36-141. Purpose of division.
(a) The land use categories permitted by this chapter are described by this section. Section
36-3(b)(2) empowers the zoning administrator to make interpretations identifying which
land use category a proposed land use fits within.
(Code 1976, § 14:5-3.1)
Sec. 36-142. Descriptions.
(a) Residential uses. The following are typical of the residential uses referred to in this
chapter.
(1) Dwelling, single-unit detached means a fully detached unit located on an individual
lot and intended for occupancy by a single-household. This includes a manufactured
home.
(2) Dwelling, two-unit (duplex) means a residence designed for or occupied by two (2)
households living independently of one another, with both units on one (1) parcel.
(3) Dwelling, attached two-unit (twinhome) means a dwelling unit designed for or
occupied by two (2) households, where the units share at least one (1) common wall
and each unit is on its own individual parcel.
(4) Dwelling, detached courtyard cottage/bungalow means a cluster of multiple,
individual detached dwelling units arranged around a shared courtyard or open
space that is typically perpendicular to the street and where the shared courtyard
takes the place of individual rear yards.
(5) Dwelling, three units means a single residential structure on a single lot which is
designed for the occupancy of three (3) households living independently of one
another; the units may share a common entrance or have individual entrances.
(6) Dwelling, four units means a single residential structure on a single lot which is
designed for the occupancy of four (4) households living independently of one
another; the units may share a common entrance or have individual entrances.
(7) Dwelling, townhouse means a single residential unit which is located within a larger
residential structure containing multiple units and which is separated from the
adjoining dwelling unit(s) by at least one (1) common wall. Each dwelling unit may be
located on its own individual lot or on a common lot containing all of the attached
units. Each dwelling unit shall have separate and individual entrances. A small
townhouse dwelling is in a structure with three (3) or four (4) units, while a large
townhouse dwelling is in a building with between five (5) and eight (8) units.
(8) Dwelling, apartment means a multi-unit residential building that consists of side-by-
side or stacked dwelling units on one (1) lot and typically with a shared common
entrance. A low-rise apartment has no more than three (3) stories, a mid-rise
45
St. Louis Park Zoning Code
apartment has between four (4) and six (6) stories, and a high-rise apartment has
seven (7) or more stories.
(9) Dwelling, existing single-unit detached means a fully detached unit located on an
individual lot and intended for occupancy by a single-household that was in existence
prior to the XXXX. This includes a manufactured home.
(10) Manufactured home park means a parcel of land under single control or
ownership which has been developed for the placement of manufactured homes for
residential use.
(11) Roominghouse means a building where lodging is provided for between three
and eight persons and is the primary residence of the owner. Lodging is available on
an extended basis rather than daily or weekly. No provision for cooking is provided in
any of the rooms occupied by lodgers.
(12) Live-work unit means a dwelling unit that includes space for the gainful
employment of a resident of the dwelling unit and up to two workers who may not be
residents of the dwelling unit. The floor area devoted to the business use may not
exceed the floor area devoted to the residential use within the unit. Any space that
will be used by walk-in customers of the business must be accessible from an
exterior entrance that is not used to access other residential units. With the exception
of the exterior entrance, the business cannot substantially alter the exterior of the
property or substantially affect the character of the neighborhood or the health,
safety and welfare of the residents. The business space must be designed to permit
conversion to residential space with minimum work and no structural changes. Uses
which are not allowed include but are not limited to the following: uses classified as
industrial; appliance, small engine and bicycle repair; motor vehicle sales; motor
vehicle service and repair; pawnshops; animal handling; bars; food service;
restaurants; private entertainment; and sexually-oriented businesses.
(13) Garage sale means the temporary sale of home-crafted items and used
household goods by the owner, resident and/or neighbors of a property. Garage
sales include estate, rummage, basement, yard, porch or similar sales conducted at
a residentially zoned and/or used property.
(14) Accessory dwelling unit means a dwelling unit complying with the Minnesota
State Building Code; which is located within a principal single-family residential
dwelling or in an accessory structure to a single-family residential dwelling. The types
of accessory dwelling unit include the following:
a. An attached accessory dwelling unit is located within a principal residential
dwelling.
b. A detached accessory dwelling unit is located as a freestanding building on the
same lot as the principal residential dwelling.
(b) Human care uses. The following are typical of the human care uses referred to in this
chapter.
(1) Adult day care means a nonresidential facility that provides care to functionally
impaired adults on a regular basis for periods of less than 24 hours in a structure
which is not the residence of the person being served or the facility operator. Some
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
characteristics of this use are similar to family day care and nursing homes. This use
is appropriate in commercial areas provided there is accessibility to outdoor areas for
sitting and exercise. Persons being served are most like nursing home residents.
(2) Family day care means a facility that provides care, protection and supervision of
children in a private residence for periods of less than 24 hours for a fee. The size of
the outdoor play area, the maximum number of children who may be served, and the
number and qualifications of required outside teachers or helpers are set forth in
state law which may be amended from time to time. This use may be licensed by
other agencies. It generates about four vehicle trip ends per child per day.
(3) Group day care/nursery school means a nonresidential facility where childcare,
protection and supervision services are provided for a fee on a regular basis for
periods of less than 24 hours. This use requires a large, sensitively located outdoor
play area and it generates about four vehicle trips per child per day.
(4) State-licensed residential facility means a state-licensed and state-mandated
residential facility occupied by persons in need of specialized treatment or protection
and resident staff who live together as a single housekeeping unit, usually for a
limited period of time. The use includes outpatient group counseling, some
supervision and treatment programs. The maximum number of clients served is
specified by state law which may be amended from time to time. Persons served
may include the mentally retarded and severely physically handicapped.
(5) Group home means occupancy of a residential structure by persons in need of
specialized treatment or protection and resident staff who usually live together as a
housekeeping unit for a limited period of time. This use may include outpatient group
counseling, some supervision, forced detention, treatment for mental illness and drug
addiction, protective shelter, half-way house, and release programs. The facility may
be licensed by the state but is not mandated.
(6) Hospital means a facility which provides health services primarily for human inpatient
medical or surgical care, including related facilities, such as laboratories, outpatient
departments, training facilities, central service facilities and staff offices.
Characteristics include large institutionally designed buildings, large volumes of
traffic, large parking lots or ramps, 24-hour activity, service vehicles, large quantities
of waste, and emergency vehicles.
(7) Medical/dental office means a facility which provides direct delivery of health-related
examination and services or treatment to customers on an appointment or walk-in
basis; and includes counseling, consultation, chiropractic and podiatry. The use may
include a supporting retail component for medicine, health-related food, or other
product.
(8) Nursing home means a licensed health care facility providing lodging and 24-hour
care for medically or physically impaired persons usually on a long-term basis.
Residents of the facility do not have private apartments or kitchens. This use
includes a food service and may include supporting medical and retail services for
the residents. A quiet area is preferred. (Ord. No. 2267-04, 4-12-04)
(9) Funeral home means a facility where funeral services are held and where embalming
and other processes occur in preparation of the dead for burial. It may include the
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
storage of caskets, funeral urns and other related funeral supplies, and it usually
provides vehicles to transport the dead to the place of burial. This use does not
include a crematorium. Characteristics include intermittent periods of high traffic
generation.
(c) (c) Institutional uses. The following are typical of the institutional uses referred to in this
chapter.
(1) Antenna means any free-standing structure or device attached to a building, pole,
tower, utility structure, or similar structure used for the purpose of collecting or
transmitting electromagnetic waves through the air, including but not limited to small
wireless facilities, wireless facilities, wireless telecommunication facilities, directional
antennas, such as panels, microwaves dishes, and satellite dishes, and omni-
directional antennas, such as whip antennas, except for Building-Mounted antennas
for private use on the premises where it is located, such as amateur radio antennas,
and antennas receiving television or radio signals.
(Ord. No. 2367-09, 1-23-09; Ord. No. 2555-19, 3-18-19)
(2) Communication tower means a free-standing structure the primary purpose of which
is to support one or more antennae and includes accessory uses directly related to
the tower, such as utility buildings. Communication tower includes wireless support
structure.
(Ord. No. 2367-09, 1-23-09; Ord. No. 2555-19, 3-18-19)
(3) Community centers means a place, structure, area or other facility which is open to
the public and designed to accommodate and serve significant segments of the
community and which is used for educational, religious, fraternal, social and
recreational programs. This use may include accessory food service and accessory
retail shops.
(4) Education/academic.
a. Public means neighborhood or district based education services normally
provided to children through young adult age. The use may include evening or
off-hour service to adults in the community. This use generally includes an
accessory food service and some retail facilities to serve students and facility.
b. Private means community or regional based education services normally
provided to persons through young adult age. The facilities are similar to public
education facilities.
(5) Library means a facility where collections of books and other materials are housed in
a building which is open to the public during regularly scheduled hours which may
include days and evenings. Books and other materials may be available for loan.
Characteristics may include high parking demand and high traffic generation.
(6) Museums/art galleries means a facility which houses collections of artifacts,
paintings or sculpture in a building which is open to the public during regularly
scheduled hours which may include weekend days and evenings.
(7) Parks/open space means passive recreation including hiking trails, natural areas,
wild life areas, arboretums, open grass areas and tot lot.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(8) Parks/recreation means areas for active outdoor recreation activities such as
baseball diamonds, tennis courts, basketball courts, playfields, playgrounds, outdoor
swimming pools, fitness courses and driving ranges.
(9) Police/fire stations means facilities designed to serve the public health and safety.
They may include an office component, the storage of fire trucks, police cars and
equipment, and the boarding of personnel within an enclosed building.
Characteristics may include sporadic periods of loud noise, sirens, and activity.
(10) Public service structure means facilities which include water towers, utility and
public service related distribution facilities, and wastewater and storm drainage
structures, but exclude utility substations. These facilities are normally serviced by
small trucks several times per day and by larger vehicles or equipment on a periodic
basis. Associated buildings typically have large windowless walls and an institutional
appearance.
(11) Religious institution means a facility where people gather to relate or manifest
faithful devotion to an acknowledged ultimate reality or deity. This use is
characterized by meeting rooms, education and training about the religion, worship
practice, indoor activities, intermittent parking needs, group singing or chanting, and
music. The assembly typically meets on weekends or evenings. Accessory uses
which may accompany the principal use include day care, park and ride, and
dwelling units for clergy, employees, or persons similarly associated with the
Religious Institution. (Ord. No. 2514-17, 3-20-17)
(12) Utility substation means a structure of electrical components to transform high
voltage electricity into lesser voltages to make it suitable for distribution to end users.
The use consists of a large structure and numerous power lines which are difficult to
screen and are classified as land use intensity 10. This use has minimal outdoor
activity and traffic generation.
(13) Golf course means a facility for playing golf outdoors which consists of golf holes,
clubhouse facilities which may contain lockers, shower rooms and incidental sale of
golf related items, and off-street parking facilities.
(14) Country club means a golf course and associated clubhouse which may contain
locker and shower rooms, dining and bar facilities, meeting rooms and other spaces
for large social functions. Country clubs are typically open only to members and
characteristics may include significant trip generation on evenings and weekends.
(15) Mikvah pool means a ceremonial pool that is constructed to meet certain
traditional requirements to serve primarily Jewish women. The use is characterized
by very low traffic volumes primarily during evening hours.
(16) Micro wireless facility. A small wireless facility that is no larger than 24 inches
long, 15 inches wide, and 12 inches high, and whose exterior antenna, if any, is no
longer than 11 inches. (Ord. No. 2555-19, 3-18-19)
(17) Small wireless facility. (Ord. No. 2555-19, 3-18-19)
a. A wireless facility that meets both of the following qualifications:
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
b. Each antenna is located inside an enclosure of no more than six cubic feet in
volume, or in the case of an antenna that has exposed elements, the antenna
and all its exposed elements could fit within an enclosure of no more than six
cubic feet; and
1. All other wireless equipment associated with the small wireless facility,
excluding electric meters, concealment elements, telecommunications
demarcation boxes, battery backup power systems, grounding
equipment, power transfers switches, cutoff switches, cable, conduit,
vertical cable runs for connection of power and other services, and any
equipment concealed from public view within or behind an existing
structure or concealment, is in aggregate no more than 28 cubic feet in
volume; or
2. A micro wireless facility
(18) Wireless facility. Equipment at a fixed location that enables the provision of
wireless services between user and equipment and a wireless service network,
including: (1) equipment associated with wireless service; (2) a radio transceiver,
antenna, coaxial or fiber-optic cable, regular and backup power supplies, and
comparable equipment, regardless of technological configuration; and (3) a small
wireless facility. Wireless facility does not include: (1) wireless support structures, (2)
wireline backhaul facilities, or (3) coaxial or fiber-optic cables between utility poles or
wireless support structures, or that are not otherwise immediately adjacent to or
directly associated with a specific antenna. (Ord. No. 2555-19, 3-18-19)
(19) Wireless service. Any service using licensed or unlicensed wireless spectrum,
including the use of Wi-Fi whether at a fixed location or by means of a mobile device
that is provided using wireless facilities. Wireless service does not include services
regulated under Title VI of the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, including a
cable service under United States Code, title 47, section 522 clause (6). (Ord. No.
2555-19, 3-18-19)
(20) Wireless support structure. A new or existing structure designed to support or
capable of supporting small wireless facilities, as reasonably determined by the city.
(Ord. No. 2555-19, 3-18-19)
(21) Wireless telecommunication facility. Equipment used to provide wireless
telecommunication or data services, including all antennas, radios, support devices,
equipment including ground equipment, associated cables, and attachments. (Ord.
No. 2555-19, 3-18-19)
(Ord. No. 2555-19, 3-18-19)
(d) Commercial uses. The following are typical of the commercial uses referred to in this
chapter.
(1) Animal handling means the sale, boarding, treatment and care of privately-owned
small animal pets which may include dogs, cats, other mammals, fish and reptiles
but excludes large animals such as horses, farm animals or animals raised for
slaughter. Characteristics may include special refuse, storage, noise, odor and other
nuisance characteristics.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(2) Animal handling, limited means any animal handling use such as veterinary clinics,
pet stores, and pet grooming that do not include boarding, daycare, or outdoor off
leash recreation space for animals. The use may require an animal to be kept
overnight on-site for treatment but does not include boarding or animal daycares.
(Ord. No. 2621-21, 7-6-2021)
(3) Appliance, small engine, and bicycle repair means maintenance and repair of
appliances, small engines, bicycles, and similar items. Characteristics include some
outdoor activity and noise.
(4) Automatic carwash means a facility designed to wash automobiles and light trucks
with little or no human intervention. The facility utilizes automated equipment and
wash cycles are relatively short. These facilities are typically accessory to other
automotive related land uses and may sporadically cause congestion on its site.
(5) Bank means a facility for the deposit, management, and lending of money, frequently
with accessory drive-up facility. This use includes banks and savings and loans but
not insurance companies and stock brokerage firms. Characteristics may include
high peak hour traffic on certain days.
(6) Bar means a facility where the primary use is the sale of alcoholic beverages for
consumption on the premises. Minors are excluded from entry by law. Characteristics
include late hours, high parking demand, noise, trash and litter and heavy off-peak
traffic. Use is often found in conjunction with restaurants, hotels and night clubs.
(7) Bed and breakfast establishment means a private, owner-occupied residence with
guestrooms where temporary lodging facilities and some meals are provided to
paying lodgers within single-family or two-family dwellings. The lodging is
subordinate and incidental to the main residential use of the building. Indoor
recreational facilities for the use of the residents and paying lodgers may be
included.
(8) Brewery means a facility that manufactures alcoholic and nonalcoholic malt liquor.
This definition does not include breweries operated in conjunction with a restaurant
as an accessory use. (Ord. No. 2449-13, 11 -15-2013)
(9) Business/trade school/college means a training establishment or institution serving
adults and sometimes high school age persons which provides training and/or
education toward a skill, license or degree. (Ord. No. 2358-08, 8-14-08)
(10) Convention and exhibition center means a facility providing large and small
meeting rooms for the assembly of persons and the display of products and
information. It may include banquet kitchens and facilities. Characteristics include
heavy parking and loading area requirements and large scale buildings.
(11) Currency exchange means any business or person except a bank, trust
company, savings bank, savings and loan association, credit union, or industrial loan
and thrift company that is engaged in the business of cashing checks, drafts, money
orders, or traveler’s checks for a fee. (Ord. No. 2349-08, 02-22-08)
(12) Dry cleaning, laundering with route pickup and delivery, means a facility where
clothing, diapers, or other fabrics are cleaned by dry cleaning or laundering
processes. Materials to be cleaned may be brought to the site either by pickup and
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
delivery trucks operated as part of the business or by customers who drop off and
pick up their own materials to be cleaned. The use may include the storage of
delivery vehicles on the site.
(13) Firearms sales means a retail use that includes the sale, lease, or purchase of
firearms or ammunition. (Ord. No. 2449-13, 11-15-2013)
(14) Food service means the on-site sale of food and beverages which are prepared
and served in individual portions in a ready to consume state for consumption either
on-site or off-site, including seating for not more than ten persons. Characteristics
may include truck and vehicle traffic, cooking odors and refuse. The preferred
location is on major thoroughfares with no access to local residential streets. This
use is often found in conjunction with motor fuel stations and grocery stores.
(15) Home occupation means an occupation, profession, or activity conducted in a
dwelling unit, which is clearly an incidental and subordinate use to the residential use
and which does not alter the exterior of the property or affect the residential
character of the neighborhood. (Ord. No. 2562-19, 6-17-19)
(16) Hostel means a lodging facility operated under the auspices of a national or
international hostel organization which has dormitory rooms available for rent by
members. The facility has common cooking and eating facilities and may have
common restroom facilities. The duration of stay is typically short and the facility has
a resident manager.
(17) Hotel/motel means facilities which provide overnight lodging in individual rooms
or suites of rooms, each having a private bathroom, which are rented by day or
week. These facilities may include in-room or in-suite kitchens and recreational
facilities for use by lodgers. Restaurants, banquet rooms, arcades, fitness centers
and other facilities available to non-lodgers are not considered accessory uses.
(18) In-vehicle sales or service means sales or service to persons in vehicles. It may
include drive-in, drive-up and drive-through facilities, but does not include motor fuel
stations. Characteristics include high traffic volumes during the typical peak hour
traffic period.
(19) Liquor store means a facility principally for the retail sale of pre-packaged
alcoholic beverages for off-premise consumption. (Ord. No. 2449-13, 11 -15-2013)
(20) Marijuana dispensary means a dispensary location where patients or consumers
can access cannabis in a legal and safe manner. Users get assistance from experts
(bud tenders) who find an optimal dosage and recommend the delivery method to
achieve optimal results when using medical cannabis. (Ord. No. 2602-21, 1-4-21)
(21) Medical and dental laboratories mean facilities in which individually produced and
made to order medical and dental prosthetics are crafted for the specific needs of
specific individuals. Characteristics may include hours of operation of 7:00 a.m. to
6:00 p.m.; daily deliveries to and from the facilities by car, van or light truck; minimal
heavy truck traffic; no use of outside storage and occasional visitation of facilities by
customers needing specialized attention as to the make-up and fit of their specific
prosthesis.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(22) Microdistillery means a distillery producing premium, distilled spirits in total
quantity not to exceed 40,000 proof gallons in a calendar year. (Ord. 2492-16, 5-16-
16)
(23) Microdistillery cocktail room. The on-sale sale of distilled liquor produced by the
distiller on the premises of or adjacent to a microdistillery location owned by a
distiller. (Ord. 2492-16, 5-16-16)
(24) Motor fuel station means a facility which supplies and dispenses at retail motor
fuels, including electrical charging, directly into a motor vehicle; it also includes the
sale of lubricants, batteries, tires and motor vehicle accessories. Motor fuels may be
self-serve or dispensed by an attendant. Light maintenance activities to vehicles
including engine tune-ups, lubrication, repairs, and carburetor cleaning may also be
conducted. Motor fuel stations may also include facilities for the retail electric
charging of vehicles. Characteristics include outdoor activity, high traffic generation
and extended hours of operation. This use excludes heavy automobile repair
including, but not limited to, engine overhauls, automobile painting, and bodywork.
(Ord. No. 2551-19, 1-22-19)
(24) Motor vehicle sales means display, sale, and rental of automobiles, trucks and
recreational vehicles from an indoor showroom facility and may include an outdoor
sales lot; motor vehicle service and repair and autobody/painting often occur in
conjunction with this use. Characteristics may include outdoor activity, banners and
lights for promotion and advertising, outdoor sound systems, truck deliveries, night
and weekend operating hours, and test driving on nearby streets. (Ord. No. 2248-03,
8-18-03)
(25) Motor vehicles service and repair means repair, lubrication, washing, detailing,
equipment installation, engine overhauls, and other similar uses involving
automobiles, trucks and recreational vehicles. Characteristics may include the
storage of vehicles, truck traffic, night and weekend operating hours; motor fuel
stations and autobody/painting are excluded.
(26) Office means a facility in which the handling of information or the performing of
administrative services is conducted. It includes services provided to persons both
on-site and off-site on a walk in or appointment basis such as counseling or indirect
or nonpersonal service such as real estate, travel agencies, financial agencies,
insurance offices and professional offices. This description excludes hospitals or
other medical facilities; except it may include up to a maximum of ten percent of the
gross floor area in medical or dental offices. Characteristics include high peak period
traffic generation and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. hours of operation.
(27) Outdoor sales means the display and sale or rental of merchandise or equipment
outside of an enclosed building. It may include boat sales, canoe sales, nursery
sales; but it excludes the sale of motor vehicles.
(28) Pawnshop means a facility where money is loaned based on the value of goods
deposited at the facility by the borrower of the money, which goods are held by the
lender of the money occupying the facility as collateral for the loan. Items held by
the lender which are not redeemed by a borrower may be put up for sale at the
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
facility to the general public. The term pawnshop includes a facility where all or any
part of the pawnshop activities are conducted. (Ord. No. 2349-08, 2-22-08)
(29) Payday loan agency means any business that has as its primary activity the
providing of short-term loans for the borrower’s own personal, family, or household
purpose which are usually for a period of forty-five (45) days or less. Payday loan
agencies do not include banks. (Ord. No. 2349-08, 2-22-08)
(30) Places of Assembly are facilities designed to accommodate larger groups of
people having shared goals, desires or interests that are not customarily business
related. Social, educational, recreational, religious, and dining activities may be
included. Characteristics may include large group meetings or activities with peak
parking demands and noise. If the floor area devoted to food or beverage sales
exceeds 50% of the total gross floor area, the facility will be classified as a
restaurant. (Ord. No. 2311-06, 1-18-06)
(31) Post office customer service means the retail/customer service portion of the post
office function that includes customer drop off of packages and mail; sale to the
public of stamps, money orders, insurance, envelopes and packaging materials, and
other mail services; and post office boxes. Characteristics include hours similar to
offices and Saturday mornings, high volumes of automobile traffic and some truck
traffic. Mail sorting for mail route delivery and distribution are not part of this land
use.
(32) Printing process/supply means a facility in which retail-oriented graphic and
photographic reproductive services are conducted. This does not include industrial
operations where printing is of a commercial nature.
(33) Private entertainment (indoor) means entertainment services provided entirely
within an enclosed building. It includes theaters, health or fitness centers, bowling
alleys, arcades, roller rinks, and pool halls. Characteristics may include late
operating hours, outdoor lighting, noise, and traffic.
(34) 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. A food service or deli is not
considered to be a restaurant if seating is provided for ten or fewer persons.
(35) Retail means a facility where merchandise or equipment is displayed and rented
or sold and where delivery of merchandise or equipment to the ultimate consumer is
made. This use includes limited production, repair or processing as an accessory
use. Hours of operation generally begin after the a.m. peak traffic period and extend
to time ranges from 5:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m.; although some convenience stores and
grocery stores are open 24 hours per day. Characteristics generally include high
parking demand and high off-peak traffic generation; generally prefers high visibility
and access to major thoroughfares. This use includes but is not limited to camera
shops, clothing stores, department stores, grocery stores, discount stores, jewelry
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
stores, delicatessens, retail bakeries, toy stores; but excludes restaurants, bars,
pawn shops, motor vehicle sales, motor fuel stations, and large item retail.
(36) Retail, large item means a facility where large item merchandise or equipment is
displayed and rented or sold and where delivery of merchandise or equipment to the
ultimate customer is made. Characteristics generally include hours of operation
between 9:00 a.m. and 9:00 p.m. weekdays and weekends. The parking demand per
square foot of building area is normally less than the demand for general retail. This
use includes but is not limited to, furniture stores, carpet stores, large appliance
stores; but excludes motor vehicle sales, pawnshops, and retail.
(37) Service means on-site service provided directly to an individual. This use
includes barbershops, beauty shops, therapeutic massage, nail salon, laundromats,
shoe repair shops, and dry cleaners where articles to be cleaned are picked up and
delivered by the patron. This use excludes pawnshops. (Ord. No. 2358-08, 8-14-08)
(38) Sexually-oriented business means any limited impact sexually-oriented business
or any high impact sexually-oriented business.
a. Limited impact sexually-oriented business means a business where sexually-
oriented materials are sold, bartered, distributed, leased, furnished, or otherwise
provided, and which meets the following restrictions:
1. All sexually-oriented materials must be provided for use or entertainment off
the business premises only;
2. All sexually-oriented materials must be provided from a separate area to
which persons under the age of 18 years are prohibited access;
3. The separate area may not exceed a maximum of 20 percent of the retail
floor area of the establishment, or 300 square feet, whichever is less;
4. No person outside the separate area shall be able to perceive or observe any
sexually oriented materials at any time, including when someone is entering
or exiting the separate area, shopping, or purchasing sexually-oriented
materials;
5. A sign must be displayed on the entrance to the separate area, which shall
read: "No person under the age of 18 years is allowed in this area." The sign
letter shall be a minimum of two inches high; and
6. The entry into the separate area shall be visible to an employee of the
business at all times.
b. High impact sexually-oriented business means any business with materials or
entertainment which are principally related to sexual stimulation or gratification
other than a limited impact sexually-oriented business. Examples of a high
impact sexually-oriented business include the following:
1. A business where sexually-oriented materials are sold, bartered, distributed,
leased, furnished, exhibited, or otherwise provided for use or entertainment
on the business premises;
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
2. A business where specified sexual activities (as defined herein) are explicitly
verbally described or shown;
3. A business where specified anatomical areas (as defined herein) are explicitly
verbally described or shown;
4. A business providing sexually-oriented materials for off-site use or
entertainment, which has a separate area but does not meet the size or other
restrictions to qualify as a limited impact sexually-oriented businesses; and
5. A business providing sexually-oriented materials for off-site use or
entertainment, where the sexually oriented materials are dispersed within the
business rather than isolated in a separate area.
c. Definitions. For the purpose of this subsection, the following definitions shall
apply:
1. Sexually-oriented materials means visual, printed, or aural materials, and
other objects or devices, which:
i. Contain, depict, or describe specified sexual activities or specified
anatomical areas; and
ii. Are marketed for use in conjunction with, or are primarily used only with
or during, the specified sexual activities described in subsections
(a)(28)c.3.ii., (a)(28)c.3.iii. and (a)(28)c.3.vi. of this section, or as part of
the binding, fettering, or other physical restraint described in subsection
(a)(28)c.3.v. of this section.
iii. Specified anatomical areas means:
iv. Less than completely and opaquely covered human genitals, pubic area,
buttock, anus, or female breast below a point immediately above the top
of the areola; and
v. Human male genitals in a state of sexual arousal, whether or not
completely and opaquely covered.
2. Specified sexual activities means:
i. Actual or simulated sexual intercourse of any kind involving two humans,
or one human and an animal or object;
ii. Actual or simulated masturbation;
iii. Actual or simulated sadism or masochism;
iv. Actual or simulated sexual stimulation of any kind;
v. Situations involving a person who is nude, clad in undergarments, or in a
revealing costume, and who is engaged in activities involving binding,
fettering, or other physical restraint of that or another person; and
vi. Sexually-oriented touching of an animal by a human.
d. Sexually-oriented businesses. Sexually-oriented businesses exclude the
following:
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
1. Any material with significant literary content or social commentary.
2. A business where sexually-oriented materials are sold, bartered, distributed,
leased, furnished, or otherwise provided for off-site use or entertainment, if:
the material harmful to minors on each item is blocked from view by an
opaque cover as required under M.S.A. § 617.293, and each item is behind
the counter and accessible only by an employee of the business.
3. Displays of sexually-oriented materials may occur up to six times per year
without rendering a business a high impact sexually-oriented business, if the
displays are limited to an area which has been leased to a person or
business for their exclusive occupancy for a private party, and the only people
in attendance have received advance invitation from that person or company.
4. Any person or organization exempted under M.S.A. § 617.295.
5. Any activity regulated under M.S.A. § 617.251.
6. Any business may display works of art showing specified anatomical areas,
so long as no sexually-oriented materials are for sale, and the business does
not have a liquor license.
7. Movies rated G, GP, PG-13 or R.
(39) Shopping center means a group of commercial uses planned, owned and
managed as a unit that has common parking facilities. Shopping centers may include
more than one building and more than one contiguous property and owner if
approved under a single conditional use permit or planned unit development. (Ord.
No. 2248-03)
(40) Studio means a facility where the practice or study of the visual and audio arts
occurs. This use may include painting, sculpturing, photography, recording, radio and
television studios. This use also includes dance studios and studios for the martial
arts. This use does not include large industrial photography or printing processes.
(Ord. No. 2349-08)
(41) Taproom means a facility where on-sale of malt liquor produced by the brewer for
consumption on the premises of, or adjacent to, the brewery location owned by the
brewer at which the malt liquor is produced. (Ord. No. 2449-13)
(e) Industrial uses. The following are typical of the industrial uses referred to in this chapter.
(1) Anaerobic digester is an enclosed system in which controlled anaerobic digestion
occurs, converting organic material into end-products such as biogas, fertilizer, water
or other solids. Characteristics may include truck traffic, odor or noises. (Ord. No.
2452-14)
(2) Autobody/painting means a facility for painting, straightening, replacing and repairing
the frame and body parts of motor vehicles usually damaged as result of an accident.
It includes the outdoor storage of damaged and dismantled vehicles, and may
generate odor and noise. This use excludes junkyards and automobile wrecking
yards.
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(3) Catering means an operation where food is either fully or partially prepared on site
and delivered to the customer off site for final preparation and consumption.
Characteristics include truck traffic, refuse storage issues, limited on-site public
contact, and possible odors from materials and processing.
(4) Composting operation means the collection, storage, processing, disposal and
distribution of vegetation. Characteristics may include odor, unsightly appearance,
truck traffic and heavy equipment. Recycling of nonorganic materials is excluded.
(5) Freight terminal means short term storage and transshipment of materials and the
outdoor storage of trucks and related equipment. Characteristics include high
volumes of large truck traffic.
(6) Light Assembly means an operation that provides for a limited range of low intensity
assembly activities, such as creating, repairing, or renovating products inside a fully
enclosed building with minimal external effects. Light Assembly does not result in
noxious or offensive odors, sounds, vibrations, emissions, or any external nuisances
upon adjacent properties. Such uses may be associated with small offices or
warehousing operations. (Ord. No. 2414-12)
(7) Low Impact Manufacturing & Processing means a facility that engages in the
production of a physical commodity or changing the form of a raw ingredient within a
fully enclosed structure. Such uses do not result in noxious or offensive odors,
sounds, vibrations, emissions, smoke or external nuisances upon adjacent
properties. It may include administrative offices, warehousing and distribution. This
use does not include outdoor storage or overnight outdoor storage of commercial
vehicles. (Ord. No. 2414-12)
(8) Manufacturing/processing means a facility for the production of a physical commodity
or changing the form of a raw ingredient. It may include administrative offices,
warehousing, and limited distribution and sale of a commodity. Characteristics may
include heavy truck traffic, odor and noise of processes and equipment, refuse
storage issues, and the use of toxic and hazardous materials. Concrete plants,
junkyards, slaughterhouses, rendering plants, salvage yards, and auto reduction
plants are excluded.
(9) Office warehouse means a facility in which the handling of information or the
performing of administrative services is conducted in conjunction with receiving,
holding, shipping and occasional packaging of commodities. Characteristics include
high peak period traffic generation and 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. hours of operation,
high truck traffic generation and parking demand.
(10) Outdoor storage means the receiving, keeping and shipping of goods and
materials outside of an enclosed building where outdoor activity includes only the
unloading, loading, and keeping of materials. This use may include storage yards for
contractors, equipment, lumber, landscaping materials, construction materials and
shipping materials. Storage of unlicensed or inoperable vehicles or other materials
typically associated with a junkyard, salvage yard or auto reduction plant are
excluded.
(11) Parcel delivery service/post office means a facility for the transshipment of letters
and packages generally less than 100 pounds in weight. Customers may purchase
58
St. Louis Park Zoning Code
stamps, money orders, insurance, and other mail services. Hours of operation are
similar to those of offices, but may include Saturdays. Characteristics include high
volumes of truck and automobile traffic and vehicles stored on premises overnight.
(12) Recycling operation means a facility located within an enclosed building for the
collection, sorting, temporary storage, and shipment of recoverable resources
including, but not limited to, newspapers, cardboard, glassware, metal cans and
plastic.
(13) Research and Development means a facility for basic and applied research or
product development. It may include the testing of agricultural, biological, chemical,
magnetic, mechanical, optical or other components in advance of product
manufacturing. The work completed may result in the creation of new goods or new
intellectual property. Research and Development does not result in noxious or
offensive odors, sounds, vibrations, emissions, or any external nuisances upon
adjacent properties. This use does not involve the fabrication, mass manufacture, or
processing of products. (Ord. No. 2414-12, 6-1-12)
(14) Showroom means the display only of samples of merchandise and equipment
where a sales agreement with a consumer is conducted and delivery of purchased
merchandise is made from a warehouse that is not accessible to the consumer and
is physically separated from the showroom by a minimum eight-foot-tall permanent
wall. Merchandise or equipment which is displayed is typically large bulky items and
includes, but is not limited to, furniture, appliances, plumbing fixtures, lighting, and
carpeting. Characteristics include hours of operation between 9:00 a.m. and 9:00
p.m. weekdays and during some weekend hours.
(15) Warehouse/storage means a facility for receiving, holding, shipping and
occasional packaging of commodities. With the exception of loading and unloading of
commodities, and parking and storage of trailers, all functions shall be within an
enclosed building. Characteristics may include high truck traffic generation and low
parking demand. This use may include, but is not limited to, conventional warehouse
facilities, mini warehouse, and joint warehouse and storage facilities.
(f) Transportation uses. The following are typical of the transportation uses referred to in
this chapter:
(1) Heliport means a facility for the landing, taking off, basing, service, and repair of
helicopters used for transportation purposes. Characteristics include noise and the
outdoor storage of helicopters.
(2) Helistop means a facility for the landing and taking off of helicopters used for
transportation purposes but with no facilities for the service of helicopters.
Characteristics include intermittent periods of noise.
(3) Off-street parking areas means private off-street parking spaces that are not
accessible to the public. (Ord. No. 2444-13, 8-30-13)
(4) Parking lots means surfaced and improved ground surface areas used for the
parking of licensed and operable motor vehicles for periods of less than 24 hours.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(5) Parking ramp means a structure built for the storage of licensed, operable motor
vehicles for periods of less than 24 hours. Characteristics may include noise,
exhaust fume odor, heavy traffic and large structure mass and footprint.
(6) Transit stations means on-site loading, unloading and transferring of passengers on,
off or between public transportation ground vehicles. Parking lots and parking ramps
frequently are located in conjunction with the station.
(g) Temporary uses. The following are typical of the temporary uses referred to in this
chapter:
(1) Agricultural commodities sales means the temporary display and sale of Christmas
trees and other greens which are associated with Christmas, flowers and produce.
(2) Building construction structure means a structure used by a contractor or leasing
agent as an office or for storage purposes for a construction project for which a
building permit has been secured and is in effect. This use includes construction
trailers, sales and leasing.
(3) Carnival and festivals mean carnivals, festivals, community art fairs, and other
activities that include uses such as entertainment, amusement rides, and/or the sale
of food and merchandise. This use shall not include sales or promotional events
offered by businesses with the intent of selling product or services identical or similar
to those typically sold or conducted on the lot.
(4) Mobile Use means a commercial activity conducted as a temporary use within a
vehicle.
(5) Mobile Use-Food means a vehicle or cart used to sell food and/or beverages to the
consumer. It may or may not involve preparation of the food or beverage inside the
vehicle. (Ord. No. 2563-19, 7-15-19)
(6) Mobile Use-Medical means a vehicle used for the following: blood mobiles,
immunization, medical evaluation, imaging, diagnostic or testing procedure. Mobile
Use-Medical also includes pet care when limited to immunizations and exams.
Mobile Use – Medical does not include massage or any type of treatment or surgery.
(7) On-site equipment storage means any structure or outdoor storage area designed for
the on-site storage of construction equipment and materials for an active
construction project.
(8) Outdoor sales, temporary, means the display and sale of merchandise other than
agricultural commodities outside of an enclosed building where it is offered in
conjunction with an established use that legally sells the same or similar
merchandise within a building on the same site. Characteristics include the use of
tents, trailers, or other temporary structures.
(9) Pollution abatement equipment means equipment and structures that are erected or
installed on a property for the purpose of eliminating or abating ground or water
pollution.
(10) Temporary structure means a building other than a construction structure used
for a period not exceeding six months.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(Code 1976, § 14:5-3.2; Ord. No. 2168-00, 5-15-2000; Ord. No. 2188-01, 2-5-2001; Ord. No.
2220-02, § 2, 3-18-2002; Ord. No. 2225-02, § 2, 6-3-2002; Ord. No. 2228-02, § 2, 7-15-2002;
Ord. No. 2234-02, § 2, 12-2-2002; Ord. No. 2311-06, 1-27-2006; Ord. No. 2349-08, 2-22-2008;
Ord. No. 2358-08, 8-14-2008; Ord. No. 2367-09, 1-23-2009; Ord. No. 2369-09, 1-30-2009; Ord.
No. 2402-11, 8 -12-2011; Ord. No. 2414-12, 6-1-2012; Ord. No. 2443-13, 7-13-2013; Ord. No.
2444-13, 8-5-2013; Ord. No. 2449-13, 11 -15-2013; Ord. No. 2452-14, 5-2-2014, Ord. 2492-16,
5-16-16; Ord. No. 2514-17, 3-20-17; Ord. No. 2551-19, 1-22-19; Ord. No. 2562-19, 6-17-19;
Ord. No. 2563-19, 7-15-19; Ord. No. 2596-20, 10-19-20; Ord. No. 2602-21, 1-4-21; Ord. No.
2621-21, 7-6-2021)
Secs. 36-143
Sec. 36-143. – 36-149. Reserved.
61
ARTICLE IV. ZONING DISTRICTS
Division 4. Neighborhood District Regulations
Sec. 36-161. Purpose of Division
(a)The provisions of this division deal with the city’s neighborhood districts including the
appropriate uses of land and the forms of structures for residential and compatible non-
residential uses.
Sec. 36-162. Purpose Statements
(a)The N-1 district is intended for lower intensity neighborhood areas dominated by
neighborhood streets and portions of multi-modal streets. This district allows a
compatible mix of housing types at the scale of a house, including individual houses on
a mix of lot sizes, clusters of smaller courtyard cottages/bungalows, and multi-unit
houses with up to three units. This district is appropriate for areas with a curvilinear
street pattern or a street grid/traditional block pattern, including blocks with and without
alleys. This district is intended to enable upgrades to existing housing as well as
supporting new development or redevelopment that complements a neighborhood’s
existing street, block, lot, and housing patterns. .
(b)The N-2 district is intended for neighborhood areas along commercial corridors,
neighborhood commercial nodes, multi-modal streets, and transit-priority streets. This
district allows a compatible mix of house scale and low-rise housing types, including
individual houses on a mix of lot sizes, clusters of smaller courtyard
cottages/bungalows, multi-unit houses, small townhouse buildings, and low-rise
apartment buildings. This district is appropriate for areas with a street grid/traditional
block pattern with alleys or larger blocks with internal street circulation. This district is
intended to enable upgrades to existing housing as well as supporting new
development or redevelopment that complements a neighborhood’s existing street,
block, lot, and housing patterns. .
(c)The N-3 district is intended for neighborhood areas within or adjacent to employment
areas, commercial centers and corridors, large multi-use districts, schools, LRT station
areas, neighborhood commercial nodes, community parks, and regional trails. This
district allows a compatible mix of low- and mid-rise housing types, including multi-unit
houses, small and large townhouse buildings, and low- and mid-rise apartment
buildings. This district is appropriate for areas with a street grid/traditional block pattern
with alleys or larger blocks with internal street circulation. This district is intended to
enable upgrades to existing housing as well as supporting new development or
redevelopment that complements a neighborhood’s existing street, block, lot, and
housing patterns. .
(d)The N-4 district is intended for neighborhood areas in high intensity districts,
commercial centers, LRT station areas, as well as adjacent to transit-priority streets,
multi-modal streets, community schools, and community parks. This district allows a
mix of high-rise housing types, including large townhouse buildings, mid- and high-rise
apartment buildings, and mixed-use apartment buildings. This district is appropriate for
areas with larger blocks with internal street circulation or a street grid/traditional block
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
pattern, including blocks with and without alleys. This district is intended to enable
upgrades to existing housing as well as supporting new development or redevelopment
that complements a neighborhood’s existing street, block, lot, and housing patterns. .
Sec. 36-163. Principal Uses
(a) Table XX lists land uses and indicates whether they are permitted, permitted with
standards, conditional, or prohibited.
(b) The following definitions shall be referenced when using Table XX:
(1) Permitted Use: A “P” indicates that a use is allowed by right, subject to compliance
with all other applicable provisions of this code.
(2) Permitted with Standards Use: A “PS” indicates that a use is allowed when standards
identified in section 36-168 “Use-Specific Standards, Principal” are met. Uses
permitted with standards are also subject to all other applicable requirements of this
chapter. Any request to vary from the standards set forth for a permitted with
standards use shall be processed as a variance.
(3) Conditional Use: A “C” indicates that a use is allowed only if a conditional use permit
is issued by the city after compliance with the procedure and requirements set forth
in section XX “Conditional Use Permit.”
(4) Prohibited Use: A blank cell in the use table indicates that the land use is prohibited
in that zoning district.
(c) In the event a proposed use is not listed in the use table, the zoning administrator is
authorized to classify the proposed use into an existing use type as set forth in Table
XX that the zoning administrator determines most closely fits the proposed use. The
zoning administrator shall consider functional similarities between uses listed and the
proposed use including nuisance characteristics, traffic, appearance and mode and
hours of operation in making this determination. The determination of the zoning
administrator shall be in writing and shall include a statement whether the use is
designated as "permitted," "permitted with standards," or "permitted as a conditional
use".
(1) If found to be consistent with a listed use, the proposed use shall be treated the
same as the listed use.
(2) If no similar use determination is made by the zoning administrator, the proposed use
is prohibited. In such case, one of the following actions may be taken:
a. The applicant may appeal the determination to the board of zoning appeals
under the provisions of subsection 36-31(a).
b. The city council on its own initiative may amend this article to allow the proposed
use.
c. An interested party may request an amendment to this chapter in accordance
with the procedure and requirement set forth in section XX “Zoning Code
Amendment.”
Table XX. Principal Uses in Residential Districts
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
Residential
Use Type N-1 N-2 N-3 N-4
Residential
Household Living
Dwelling, single-unit PS PS
Dwelling, single-unit small PS PS
Dwelling, two-unit (duplex) PS PS
Dwelling, two-unit attached (twinhome) PS PS
Dwelling, detached courtyard
cottages/bungalows PS PS
Dwelling, three-unit PS PS
Dwelling, four-unit PS
Dwelling, townhouse (small) PS PS PS
Dwelling, apartment (low-rise) PS PS PS
Dwelling, townhouses (large) PS PS
Dwelling, apartment (mid-rise) PS PS
Dwelling, apartment (high-rise) PS
Manufactured home park C C C C
Dwelling, existing single-unit detached PS PS PS PS
Group Living
State-licensed residential facility PS PS PS PS
Roominghouse P P P
Group home PS PS PS PS
Nursing home PS PS PS
Lodging
Bed and breakfast establishments PS PS
Hostel PS PS
Public, Social, & Institutional
Community centers PS PS PS PS
Educational (academic) facilities with 20
or fewer students PS PS PS PS
Educational (academic) facilities with
more than 20 students C C C C
Libraries PS PS PS PS
Parks and open spaces PS PS PS P
Parks/recreation PS PS PS PS
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
Residential
Use Type N-1 N-2 N-3 N-4
Police/fire station PS PS PS PS
Religious institutions C C C C
Commercial Uses
Personal Services and Business
Adult day care PS PS PS PS
Group day care/nursery school PS PS PS PS
Office less than 2,500 square feet PS PS PS
Office in existence or having received
preliminary office development approval
by March 1, 1999
P P
Recreation
Country clubs C
Golf courses C
Healthcare
Hospital C C
Transportation and Utilities
Communication towers that are 45 feet
or less in height PS PS PS PS
Communication towers more than 45
feet in height but not to exceed 70 feet in
height
C C C C
Public service structures PS PS PS PS
Transit stations P P P
Sec. 36-164. Accessory Uses
(a) Table XX lists accessory land uses and indicates whether they are permitted, permitted
with standards, conditional, or prohibited.
(b) The following definitions shall be referenced when using Table XX:
(1) Permitted Use: A “P” indicates that a use is allowed by right, subject to compliance
with all other applicable provisions of this code.
(2) Permitted with Standards Use: A “PS” indicates that a use is allowed when standards
identified in section 36-169 “Use-Specific Standards, Accessory” are met. Uses
permitted with standards are also subject to all other applicable requirements of this
chapter. Any request to vary from the standards set forth for a permitted with
standards use shall be processed as a variance.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(3) Conditional Use: A “C” indicates that a use is allowed only if a conditional use permit
is issued by the city after compliance with the procedure and requirements set forth
in section XX “Conditional Use Permit.”
(4) Prohibited Use: A blank cell in the use table indicates that the land use is prohibited
in that zoning district.
(c) In the event a proposed use is not listed in the use table, the zoning administrator is
authorized to classify the proposed use into an existing use type as set forth in Table
XX that the zoning administrator determines most closely fits the proposed use. The
zoning administrator shall consider functional similarities between uses listed and the
proposed use including nuisance characteristics, traffic, appearance and mode and
hours of operation in making this determination. The determination of the zoning
administrator shall be in writing and shall include a statement whether the use is
designated as "permitted," "permitted with standards," or "permitted as a conditional
use".
(1) If found to be consistent with a listed use, the proposed use shall be treated the
same as the listed use.
(2) If no similar use determination is made by the zoning administrator, the proposed use
is prohibited. In such case, one of the following actions may be taken:
a. The applicant may appeal the determination to the board of zoning appeals
under the provisions of subsection 36-31(a).
b. The city council on its own initiative may amend this chapter to allow the
proposed use.
c. An interested party may request an amendment to this chapter in accordance
with the procedure and requirement set forth in section XX “Zoning Code
Amendment.”
Table XX. Accessory Uses
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
Residential
Use Type N-1 N-2 N-3 N-4
Accessory Uses
Accessory dwelling unit PS PS
Accessory dwelling units affiliated with a Religious
Institution PS PS PS PS
Accessory building PS PS PS PS
Adult day care in a religious institution, community
center, or nursing home PS PS PS PS
Boarders or roomers PS PS PS PS
Catering PS P
Community garden PS PS PS PS
Family day care facilities serving 14 or fewer
persons PS PS PS PS
Gardening and other horticultural uses P P P P
Group day care/nursery school in a religious
institution, community center, or educational
(academic) institution
PS PS PS PS
Helistops PS PS
Home occupations PS PS PS PS
Living quarters of persons employed for domestic
or medical purposes on the premises PS PS PS PS
Mikvah pools PS PS PS PS
Parking lot P P P P
Parking ramps PS PS
Residential sport court PS PS PS PS
Residential swimming pool PS PS PS PS
Supportive commercial use PS PS
Sec. 36-165. Lot Dimension Standards
(a) Table XX establishes the minimum lot width and lot area standards for the N-1, N-2, N-
3, and N-4 districts.
Table XX. Lot Dimensional Standards
67
St. Louis Park Zoning Code
District Housing Type
Lot width
minimum
with alley
(ft)1
Lot width
minimum
without alley
(ft)1
Lot area
minimum
with alley
(sq ft)1
Lot area
minimum
without alley
(sq ft)1
N-1
Dwelling, single-unit small [only lots
with alleys]
30 3,600
Dwelling, single-unit 40 50 4,800 6,000
Dwelling, two-unit (duplex) 40 50 4,800 6,000
Dwelling, two-unit attached
(twinhome)
25 [50] 35 [70] 3,125 [6,250] 4,375 [8,750]
Dwelling, detached courtyard
cottages/bungalows
100 110 13,000 14,300
Dwelling, three-unit 60 70 7,800 9,100
Dwelling, single-unit small [only lots
with alleys]
30 3,600
Dwelling, single-unit 40 50 4,800 6,000
Dwelling, two-unit (duplex) 40 50 4,800 6,000
Dwelling, two-unit attached
(twinhome)
25 [50] 35 [70] 3,125 [6,250] 4,375 [8,750]
N-2 Dwelling, detached courtyard
cottages/bungalows
100 110 13,000 14,300
Dwelling, three-unit 60 70 7,800 9,100
Dwelling, four-unit 60 70 7,800 9,100
Dwelling, townhouse (small) 20 20 2,600 2,600
Dwelling, apartment (low-rise) 60 70 7,800 9,100
Dwelling, townhouse (small) 20 20 2,600 2,600
N-3 Dwelling, apartment (low-rise) 60 70 7,800 9,100
Dwelling, townhouse (large) 20 20 2,600 2,600
Dwelling, apartment (mid-rise) 60 70 7,800 9,100
Dwelling, townhouse (small) 20 20 2,600 2,600
Dwelling, apartment (low-rise) 60 70 7,800 9,100
N-4 Dwelling, townhouse (large) 20 20 2,600 2,600
Dwelling, apartment (mid-rise) 60 70 7,800 9,100
Dwelling, apartment (high-rise) 60 70 7,800 9,100
(b) Table XX Notes:
(1) For N-3 and N-4 districts, minimum lot width and area requirements in table, except
where subdivisions for the purpose of establishing condominium ownership result in
lot sizes smaller than the established minimum.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
Sec. 36-166. Site Dimension Standards
(a) Table XX establishes the minimum yard setback standards for the N-1, N-2, N-3, and N-
4 districts
Table XX. Setback Standards
District Housing Type
Front
Yard
Setback
Minimum
(feet)1,2
Side
Corner
Yard
Setback
Minimum
(feet)3,4,5
Side Interior
Yard Setback
Minimum
(feet) for
Attached
Garage or Lot
with Alley4,5
Side Interior
Yard Setback
Minimum
(feet) for
Detached
Garage on
Lot without
Alley4,5
Rear Yard
Setback
Minimum
(feet)6
Perimeter
Setback
Minimum
(feet)
Dwelling, single-
unit small [only
lots with alleys]
25 15
5 9/5 25
Dwelling, single-
unit 5 9/5 25
N-1 Dwelling, two-unit
(duplex) 5 9/5 25
Dwelling, two-unit
attached
(twinhome)
5 9/5 25
Dwelling,
detached
courtyard
cottages/
bungalows
10
Dwelling, three-
unit 5 9/5 25
Dwelling, single-
unit small [only
lots with alleys]
25 15
5 9/5 25
Dwelling, single-
unit 5 9/5 25
Dwelling, two-unit
(duplex) 5 9/5 25
Dwelling, two-unit
attached
(twinhome)
5 9/5 25
69
St. Louis Park Zoning Code
District Housing Type
Front
Yard
Setback
Minimum
(feet)1,2
Side
Corner
Yard
Setback
Minimum
(feet)3,4,5
Side Interior
Yard Setback
Minimum
(feet) for
Attached
Garage or Lot
with Alley4,5
Side Interior
Yard Setback
Minimum
(feet) for
Detached
Garage on
Lot without
Alley4,5
Rear Yard
Setback
Minimum
(feet)6
Perimeter
Setback
Minimum
(feet)
N-2 Dwelling,
detached
courtyard
cottages/
bungalows
10
Dwelling, three-
unit 5 9/5 25
Dwelling, four-unit 5 9/5 25
Dwelling,
townhouse
(small)
10 10 25 20 feet if
adjacent
to N-1
district Dwelling,
apartment (low-
rise)
10 10 25
Dwelling,
townhouse
(small)
15 15
10 10 10 20 feet if
adjacent
to N-1
district N-3 Dwelling,
apartment (low-
rise)
10 10 10
Dwelling,
townhouse (large) 10 10 10 30 feet if
adjacent
to N-1 or
N-2
districts
Dwelling,
apartment (mid-
rise)
10 10 10
Dwelling,
townhouse
(small) 15 15
10 10 10 20 feet if
adjacent
to N-1
district Dwelling,
apartment (low-
rise)
10 10 10
70
St. Louis Park Zoning Code
District Housing Type
Front
Yard
Setback
Minimum
(feet)1,2
Side
Corner
Yard
Setback
Minimum
(feet)3,4,5
Side Interior
Yard Setback
Minimum
(feet) for
Attached
Garage or Lot
with Alley4,5
Side Interior
Yard Setback
Minimum
(feet) for
Detached
Garage on
Lot without
Alley4,5
Rear Yard
Setback
Minimum
(feet)6
Perimeter
Setback
Minimum
(feet)
N-4 Dwelling,
townhouse (large) 10 10 10 30 feet if
adjacent
to N-1 or
N-2
districts
Dwelling,
apartment (mid-
rise)
10 10 10
Dwelling,
apartment (high-
rise)
10 10 10
Half the
building
height if
adjacent
to N-1,
N-2, or
N-3
districts
(b) Table XX Notes:
(1) For N-1 and N-2 districts, minimum requirement in table or the front wall of the
closest house on the block front, whichever is greater. See additional exceptions in
Section 36-73.
(2) For N-1 and N-2 districts, through lots shall have a required front yard on each street.
(3) Except that a lot of record that is less than the minimum lot width shall have a
minimum side yard abutting a street that is 9 feet in width.
(4) The width of the side yard abutting a building wall shall be increased two inches for
each foot the length of the wall of the building exceeds 40 feet (N-1, N-2) or 50 feet
(N-3, N-4).
a. For the purposes of applying this subsection, a wall includes any building wall
within ten degrees of being parallel to and abutting the side lot line of a lot.
b. Side yard widths may be reduced if the side wall of a building is not parallel by
more than ten degrees with the side lot line.
c. The minimum side yard shall be met by the average depth of the side yard. No
side yard shall be less than five feet deep.
d. No side yard shall be reduced to prevent construction of a driveway from the
street into the rear of the lot unless a garage which has access from the street is
located on the lot or an alley provides a secondary access to the rear yard of the
lot.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(5) For N-1 and N-2 districts, if a corner lot has a rear lot line which is common with the
side lot line of another lot, no building shall occupy that portion of the rear yard of the
corner lot that abuts the front yard of the other lot for a distance equal to the depth of
the front yard of that other lot or 30 feet, whichever is less, measured from the
common property line of the two lots extending toward the front lot line of the corner
lot on a line perpendicular to the common lot line of the two lots. See the following
diagram.
Common Rear / Side Lot Lines
(c) Table XX establishes the minimum building, outdoor recreation, and lot coverage for the
N-1, N-2, N-3, and N-4 districts.
Table XX. Building, Outdoor Recreation, and Lot Coverage Standards
District Housing Type
Building
Height
Maximum
(feet)1
Distance
Between
Buildings
Minimum
(feet)
DORA
Minimum
Principal
Building
Coverage
Maximum
Impervious
Surface
Coverage
Maximum
Dwelling, single-
unit small [only
lots with alleys]
30
35% 60%
Dwelling, single-
unit 35% 60%
N-1 Dwelling, two-unit
(duplex) 35% 60%
Dwelling, two-unit
attached
(twinhome)
35% 60%
Dwelling,
detached
courtyard
10 35% 60%
72
St. Louis Park Zoning Code
District Housing Type
Building
Height
Maximum
(feet)1
Distance
Between
Buildings
Minimum
(feet)
DORA
Minimum
Principal
Building
Coverage
Maximum
Impervious
Surface
Coverage
Maximum
cottages/
bungalows
Dwelling, three-
unit 35% 60%
Dwelling, single-
unit small [only
lots with alleys]
40
35% 60%
Dwelling, single-
unit 35% 60%
Dwelling, two-unit
(duplex) 35% 60%
Dwelling, two-unit
attached
(twinhome)
35% 60%
N-2 Dwelling,
detached
courtyard
cottages/
bungalows
10 35% 60%
Dwelling, three-
unit 35% 60%
Dwelling, four-unit 35% 75%
Dwelling,
townhouse (small) 15 12% 75%
Dwelling,
apartment (low-
rise)
15 12% 80%
Dwelling,
townhouse (small)
75
15 12% 75%
N-3 Dwelling,
apartment (low-
rise)
1/2 the
building
height
12% 80%
73
St. Louis Park Zoning Code
District Housing Type
Building
Height
Maximum
(feet)1
Distance
Between
Buildings
Minimum
(feet)
DORA
Minimum
Principal
Building
Coverage
Maximum
Impervious
Surface
Coverage
Maximum
Dwelling,
townhouse (large) 15 12% 80%
Dwelling,
apartment (mid-
rise)
1/2 the
building
height
12% 85%
Dwelling,
townhouse (small)
More than 75
15 12% 80%
Dwelling,
apartment (low-
rise)
1/2 the
building
height
12% 80%
N-4 Dwelling,
townhouse (large) 15 12% 80%
Dwelling,
apartment (mid-
rise)
1/2 the
building
height
12% 85%
Dwelling,
apartment (high-
rise)
1/2 the
building
height
12% 85%
(a) Table XX Notes:
(1) Building height maximum is subject to exceptions in section 36-78.
Sec. 36-167. District Standards
(a) For N-1 and N-2 districts, a single-family house which legally existed or for which a valid
building permit had been granted on or before the effective date of the ordinance from
which this chapter is derived, may be expanded by an addition or dormer, provided the
addition does not extend into the existing side yard.
(b) For N-3 and N-4 districts, all dwelling units shall be at or above the grade of all land
abutting the structure within a distance of 25 feet from all faces of the building.
(c) Any parcels which are subdivided for the purpose of creating condominium ownership
are permitted provided that the overall density created within all condominium parcels
plus the common lot do not exceed the maximum density permitted within the zoning
district. Provisions for designed outdoor recreation area may be provided on a common
lot. Any front, rear, and side yard dimensions required by section 36-166 shall apply
from the building face to the property line of the common lot.
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(d) Structures or properties. All structures or properties within any N district shall comply
with the following regulations:
(1) No accessory building or permanent structure shall be located in a drainage or utility
easement without first obtaining approval of an encroachment agreement.
(2) All trash, garbage, waste materials, trash containers, and recycling containers shall
be stored in a manner provided in this chapter.
(3) All utility lines including electric, gas, water, sanitary sewer, telephone, and television
cable shall be placed underground when used with all new structures or additions
which expand the gross square footage of a structure by more than 50 percent
unless used for service to single- or two-unit dwellings. In addition, any new service
to an existing building other than a single- or two-unit dwelling shall be placed
underground.
(4) All access roads shall have a poured-in-place concrete curb measuring at least six
inches above and below the grade in all developments except developments of
single- or two-unit dwellings.
(5) Interior pedestrian circulation and pedestrian linkage to any existing public trails or
sidewalks shall be provided where practically possible for all developments except
developments of single- or two-unit dwellings.
(6) All single- and two-unit dwellings shall:
a. Be built on a permanent foundation;
b. Be connected to the city sanitary sewer and water; and
c. If the dwelling is a manufactured home, it shall:
1. Have a permanent, completely enclosed foundation which complies with the
state manufactured home building code and which is constructed around the
entire circumference of the structure.
2. Meet the standards and be certified by the U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development.
(e) Parking and storing of vehicles. The parking or storing of any motor vehicle, recreation
vehicle, or commercial vehicle is subject to all restrictions in this subsection and under
section 36-361.
(1) Purpose. The city council finds that in areas set aside by this chapter for residential
development certain performance standards are desirable in order to preserve
neighborhood character, public health and safety, property values, and allow all
residents a reasonable use and enjoyment of property. To this purpose, the city
council finds that the use and possession of commercial and recreational vehicles
are an important factor in the lives of a substantial number of residents of the city.
The council finds that certain types and sizes of commercial and recreational
vehicles, the improper storage of commercial and recreational vehicles, and the
parking of and storage of excessive numbers of vehicles can affect the neighborhood
character as well as public health and safety, property values, and the reasonable
use and enjoyment of neighboring properties. While the ability of recreational vehicle
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owners to provide for the security of and access to their vehicles is a reasonable
expectation, they have a responsibility to respect the rights of residents, owners, and
users of neighboring properties and to avoid interference with the purposes of the
zoning district in which they are located. The city council further finds that the
establishment of these regulations furthers the goals in the city's comprehensive plan
relative to enhancement of residential neighborhoods and similar goals expressed in
Vision St. Louis Park. The city council establishes these regulations as a means to
balance the interests of the owners of commercial and recreational vehicles,
adjacent residents and the public.
(2) Except as provided in subsections (b)(3) and (b)(9) of this section, no motor vehicle,
recreational vehicle, commercial vehicle, or trailer shall be permitted to stand or park
in any N district which exceeds any of the following:
a. Eight feet in height, measured from the ground to the highest point on the vehicle
at recommended tire pressure. For the purpose of measuring height, all
accessories, attachments, and materials carried upon a vehicle shall be
considered part of the vehicle;
b. Twenty-two feet in length, measured at the longest point of the vehicle or, if a
trailer, the horizontal distance between the front and rear edges of the trailer bed.
For the purpose of measuring length, all accessories, attachments, and materials
carried upon a vehicle shall be considered part of the vehicle or trailer bed; or
c. Six thousand five hundred pounds, empty weight including the box.
(3) One recreational vehicle which exceeds any of the limits set forth in subsection (b)(2)
of this section and is owned by the occupant of the premises can be parked in the
back yard area if:
a. The vehicle is parked no closer than five feet from any property line.
b. If the property has more than a two-unit dwelling, the vehicle must be stored on a
concrete or bituminous surface and the parking space must be in excess of the
minimum number of parking spaces required by this chapter.
c. The vehicle shall be screened using a 90 percent opaque fence which is six feet
high and plant materials which at maturity have the ability to screen 100 percent
of the height and 100 percent of the length of the vehicle with a minimum of 50
percent opacity from view from:
1. Any park.
2. Any abutting residentially developed property.
3. Any street which abuts the back yard.
The fence and plant materials shall be located in such a manner that visibility is
maintained as required in section 36-76. A six -foot-high gate may be placed in
the fence to allow for ingress and egress. Plant materials may be omitted at
points of ingress and egress but the gap in landscaping may not exceed the
width of the vehicle plus two feet.
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(4) The following provisions shall apply to the parking and storage of vehicles on
residential parcels in the N-1 and N-2district:
a. No more than three vehicles can be parked or stored outside an enclosed
building on a lot that contains a single-unit dwelling. For a two-unit dwelling
(duplex), six vehicles can be parked or stored outside. If there are more than
three persons residing at a single-unit dwelling, inclusive of an accessory
dwelling unit or a boarder, who have valid state driver's licenses showing the
residence addresses on the lot, then the total number of vehicles allowed to be
parked outside is increased to a number equal to the number of licensed drivers
residing at the property not to exceed five vehicles. The provisions of this
subsection shall not apply during snow emergencies.
b. No more than two non-passenger vehicles can be parked on a residential lot
outside of an enclosed building. Except as permitted in subsection (b)(3) of this
section, vehicles shall be stored on a designated parking space. Non-passenger
vehicles cannot be parked or stored in a front yard or a side yard abutting a
street except as allowed under subsection (b)(4)g of this section.
c. Only commercial vehicles which do not exceed any of the size requirements
under subsection (b)(2) of this section and are designed exclusively for on-street
use can be parked on residential lots outside an enclosed building. Commercial
vehicles shall be parked only within a garage or on a designated parking space
and cannot be parked or stored in a front yard or a side yard abutting a street
except as permitted under subsection (b)(4)g of this section.
d. Except as permitted in subsection (b)(3) of this section, all vehicles must be
stored on a surface improved for driveway purposes with an approved paving
surface.
e. No more than one recreational vehicle which exceeds the size requirements in
subsection (b)(3) of this section can be parked on a residential lot outside an
enclosed building.
f. No non-passenger vehicle can be parked within five feet of an interior side lot line
or rear lot line.
g. No non-passenger vehicle can be parked within the front yard or within a side
yard abutting a street except where designated parking space is permitted under
subsection 36-361(k)(11). Under no circumstances can a non-passenger vehicle
which exceeds the size limitations in subsection (b)(2) of this section be parked
in a front yard.
h. No non-passenger vehicle can be parked on a residential lot if the vehicle is not
owned or leased by the occupant of the premises where it is parked or is a
commercial vehicle owned by the employer of an occupant who is using the
vehicle for business purposes.
i. Only one tow truck can be parked on a residential property.
j. Parking is not permitted within a driveway in the N-1 district within five feet of the
curb of a public street. In the absence of a curb, parking shall not be permitted
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within five feet of the traveled public roadway, in no event can a vehicle be
parked in such a manner as to block a public sidewalk.
k. The total area in the front yard of a single-unit dwelling lot improved for parking
and driveway purposes shall not exceed 30 percent of a front yard area.
Additionally, the average width of a driveway shall not be more than 22 feet. This
provision will not prohibit an average driveway width of up to 22 feet for all single-
unit dwelling lots.
l. Recreational vehicles six feet in height or less at their highest points may be
parked in one non-driveway side yard on a residentially zoned lot provided that
they are ten feet or more from the adjacent residence, do not extend beyond the
front building wall of the house, and are screened from the street and from the
adjacent neighbor with a 90 percent opaque fence with a height at least equal to
the height of the highest point of the vehicle to be screened. A fence-height gate
may be placed in the fence to allow for ingress and egress.
(5) One vehicle with an attached snowplow can be parked outside of an enclosed
building between November 1 or the first two-inch snowfall, whichever occurs first,
and April 30. This vehicle will be considered to be a commercial vehicle when
applying this chapter.
(6) Snowplows and other commercial equipment must be stored within an enclosed
structure when not attached to a vehicle.
(7) Outdoor storage of fish houses is not permitted on a residential lot
(8) On-street parking of non-passenger vehicles is not permitted within any N district.
(9) The following are exempt from the provisions in this subsection:
a. Any vehicle being used in conjunction with a temporary service benefiting the
property.
b. Vehicles used in conjunction with authorized construction sites between 7:00
a.m. and 10:00 p.m. Monday through Friday and between 9:00 a.m. and 10:00
p.m. on weekends and holidays.
c. Vehicles used in conjunction with authorized public works construction.
d. Recreational vehicles can be parked temporarily while being loaded or unloaded
or during routine maintenance and servicing not exceeding 48 consecutive hours.
Sec. 36-168. Use Specific Standards, Principal
(a) Adult day care.
(1) At least 12% of the lot area shall be developed as designed outdoor recreation area.
(2) Within the N-1 and N-2 districts, the facility can serve 16 or fewer persons.
(b) Bed and breakfast establishments.
(1) The facility shall be owner occupied.
(2) The total number of guestrooms shall be limited to three.
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(3) Not more than 50 percent of the gross floor area of the residence shall be used for
the guesthouse operation.
(4) Accommodations may be provided to a guest for a period not exceeding 14 days.
(5) Food service shall be limited to breakfast.
(6) Rented rooms shall not contain cooking facilities.
(7) Rooms used for sleeping shall be part of the primary residential structure and shall
not have been constructed specifically for rental purposes.
(c) Communication towers that are 45 feet or less.
(1) The tower must meet the standards of Section 368 (Communication Towers and
Antennas).
(d) Communication towers that are more than 45 feet in height but not to exceed 70 feet in
height.
(1) The tower must meet the standards of Section 368 (Communication Towers and
Antennas).
(e) Community centers.
(1) The property shall be designated as civic in the comprehensive plan.
(2) Unless a redevelopment plan for the area has been adopted as part of the city
comprehensive plan, the following standards shall apply:
a. The principal building shall be located a minimum of 30 feet from any parcel that
is zoned N and either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional
building, including but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious
institutions, and community centers.
b. Outdoor areas improved for group activities shall be located at least 25 feet from
any parcel that is zoned N and either used for residential use or has an occupied
institutional building, including but not limited to schools and religious institutions.
(f) Country clubs.
(1) All structures shall be located a minimum of 30 feet from any parcel that is zoned N
and either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional building, including
but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious institutions, and
community centers.
(g) Dwellings
(1) Dwelling, single unit
a. Lot access
1. If a lot is adjacent to an alley, driveway access shall be off the alley.
2. If a lot is not adjacent to an alley but is a corner lot or a through lot, then
driveway access shall be off the side street with the lower functional class as
defined by the comprehensive plan.
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3. If a lot is not adjacent to an alley nor a corner lot, driveway access can be
from the street.
4. A driveway existing as of [insert date] that does not meet the above lot
access standards can continue in the same location until the property is
redeveloped. Such driveway may be expanded as long as it is in
conformance with the City Code.
b. The front façade of an attached garage must be a minimum of 5 feet behind the
principal building’s front façade. A garage with more than two parking stalls shall
have the front façade of the third stall set back an additional 3 feet.
c. The maximum garage width facing a public right-of-way shall not exceed 50% of
the principal building’s front facade.
d. The width of the side yard abutting a building wall shall be increased two inches
for each foot the length of the building wall exceeds 50 feet. For the purpose of
this section, a wall includes any building wall within ten degrees of being parallel
to and abutting the side lot line of a lot.
(2) Dwelling, single unit small
a. The dwelling shall be no more than 1,200 square feet in size.
b. The dwelling footprint shall be no more than 800 square feet
c. The maximum height of the dwelling unit shall be 25 feet.
(3) Dwelling, two-unit (duplex)
a. Any two-unit (duplex) dwelling shall abide by the standards as required for
dwelling, single-unit above.
(4) Dwelling, two-unit attached (twinhome)
a. Any two-unit attached (twinhome) dwelling shall abide by the standards as
required for dwelling, single-unit above.
(5) Dwelling, detached courtyard cottages/bungalows
a. A cottage courtyard development shall consist of at least four and no more than
12 dwelling units located around a shared, centrally located courtyard.
b. The cottage courtyard development shall provide a minimum of 300 square feet
of common open space per dwelling unit. This common open space includes the
required shared courtyard, which shall be at least 20 feet in width and depth.
c. A cottage courtyard development may have more than one courtyard.
d. Each dwelling unit shall have a maximum height of 25 feet.
e. Each dwelling unit shall have a maximum ground floor area of 900 square feet.
f. Each dwelling unit shall have the primary entrance oriented to the shared
courtyard.
g. Each dwelling unit abutting a public street shall have windows on the facade
oriented to the public street.
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h. Each dwelling unit shall have no more than a one-stall attached garage.
i. Accessory buildings. No accessory buildings shall be allowed except for a one-
stall detached garage for each dwelling unit and accessory buildings for use by
the homeowners association.
j. Parking areas shall not be located in any required yard abutting a public street.
k. Accessory dwelling units are prohibited.
l. Dwelling units may be located on one parcel or on individual parcels for each
dwelling unit with a separate parcel for common open spaces and facilities.
(6) Dwelling, three-unit
a. Driveway access shall be off the alley if present. If a lot is on a corner, then the
driveway shall be off the side street if an alley is not present. If there is not an
alley or the lot is not a corner lot, the driveway access may be from the front of
the property.
b. On the public street-facing facade, no garage shall occupy more than 50 percent
of any street-facing individual unit facade.
(7) Dwelling, four-unit
a. Any four-unit dwelling shall abide by the standards as required for dwelling,
three-unit above.
(8) Dwelling, townhouse
a. Lot access
1. If a lot is adjacent to an alley, driveway access shall be off the alley.
2. If a lot is not adjacent to an alley but is a corner lot or a through lot, then
driveway access shall be off the side street with the lower functional class as
defined by the comprehensive plan.
3. If a lot is not adjacent to an alley nor a corner lot, driveway access can be
from the street.
4. A driveway existing as of [insert date] that does not meet the above lot
access standards can continue in the same location until the property is
redeveloped. Such driveway may be expanded as long as it is in
conformance with the City Code.
b. The maximum number of dwellings per structure shall be as follows:
1. Small townhouse dwelling shall have no more than four units
2. Large townhouse dwelling shall have no more than eight units The orientation
of the structure(s) shall match the orientation of other existing principal
structures along the block on which it is located.
c. On the public street-facing facade, no garage shall extend more than 50 percent
of any individual unit.
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d. Buildings shall be designed with significant variation in the façade every 60 feet
and minor variations at least every 20 feet. Variation can be achieved with
articulation, texture, materials, doors, windows, roof dormers, gables, and
covered porches. Any architectural projection or recess used to accomplish this
change shall be a minimum of six feet wide and two feet deep.
(9) Dwelling, apartment (low-rise)
a. Lot access
1. If a lot is adjacent to an alley, driveway access shall be off the alley.
2. If a lot is not adjacent to an alley but is a corner lot or a through lot, then
driveway access shall be off the street with the lower functional class as
defined by the comprehensive plan.
3. If a lot is not adjacent to an alley nor a corner lot, driveway access can be
from the street.
4. A driveway existing as of [insert date] that does not meet the above lot
access standards can continue in the same location until the property is
redeveloped. Such driveway may be expanded as long as it is in
conformance with the City Code.
(10) Dwelling, apartment (mid-rise)
a. Dwelling unit entrances for ground floor units may be internal to the building or
individual exterior entrances.
b. Any driveways or parking areas within 30 feet of a property zoned N-1 or N-2
outside of the development shall be screened. Such screening may consist of a
solid hedge, an architectural compatible opaque wall, fence, berm or combination
thereof.
c. Access shall be to a roadway identified in the comprehensive plan as a collector
or arterial, or shall be otherwise located so that access can be provided without
generating significant traffic on local residential streets.
(11) Dwelling, apartment (high-rise)
a. Any high-rise apartment dwelling shall abide by the standards as required for
dwelling, apartment (mid-rise) above.
(h) Educational (academic) facilities with 20 or fewer students.
(1) The school shall be limited to preschool through eighth grade.
(2) Access shall be to a roadway identified in the comprehensive plan as a collector or
arterial, or shall be otherwise located so that access can be provided without
generating significant traffic on local residential streets.
(3) Student drop-off and loading areas shall not interfere with traffic and pedestrian
movements.
(4) An outdoor play area shall be provided that contains at least 40 square feet per
student enrolled at the school, or be located adjacent to a public park.
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(i) Educational (academic) facilities with more than 20 students.
(1) Educational buildings shall be located a minimum of 30 feet from any parcel that is
zoned N and either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional building,
including but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious institutions, and
community centers.
(2) An off-street passenger loading area shall be provided in order to maintain vehicular
and pedestrian safety.
(3) Outdoor recreational and play areas shall be located at least 25 feet from any parcel
that is zoned N or either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional
building, including but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious
institutions, and community centers.
(4) Access shall be to a roadway identified in the comprehensive plan as a collector or
arterial, or shall be otherwise located so that access can be provided without
generating significant traffic on local residential streets.
(5) Student housing may be allowed as an accessory use within the N-2 and N-3
districts with the following conditions:
a. No more than 50 students may live on-site in the N-2 district, while no more than
200 students may live on-site in the N-3 district.
b. An outdoor recreation area shall be provided that contains at least 40 square feet
per student living at the educational (academic) facility.
c. The housing must be supervised 24 hours a day, seven days a week by an adult
living on-site.
d. The students living on-site must be actively enrolled in the educational
(academic) facility as full-time students.
e. The student housing must be located on the same parcel as the educational
(academic) facility.
(j) Golf courses.
(1) All structures shall be located a minimum of 30 feet from any parcel that is zoned N
and either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional building, including
but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious institutions, and
community centers.
(k) Group day care/nursery school.
(1) At least 12% of the lot area shall be developed as designed outdoor recreation area.
(2) The on-site outdoor activity areas shall be located in the rear yard and enclosed by a
fence.
(3) Outdoor recreational and play areas shall be located at least 25 feet from any lot
zoned N and either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional building,
including but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious institutions, and
community centers.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(4) City parks may be utilized to meet up to 50 percent of the required outdoor activity
areas with the following conditions:
a. The park must have age-appropriate play equipment.
b. There is a clearly defined and maintained sidewalk or improved trail connecting
the facility to the park.
(5) In the N-1 and N-2 districts, the group day care/nursery school must be licensed and
serve 16 or fewer children.
(l) Group home.
(1) At least 800 square feet of lot area shall be provided for each person, including
resident staff, housed on the site.
(2) The maximum occupancy of an individual dwelling unit shall not exceed six persons.
(3) The maximum occupancy of a facility shall not exceed 18 people in the N-1 district,
30 people in the N-2 district, and 50 people in the N-3 district. A minimum of 300
square feet of gross building area shall be provided for each resident.
(4) At least 12% of the lot area shall be developed as designed outdoor recreation area.
(5) No more than two people shall occupy one bedroom.
(6) The dwelling unit shall provide one bathroom for each three persons.
(7) The use shall not be located within 1,500 feet of any other group home or state-
licensed residential facility.
(8) The use shall be located within 300 feet of a commercial or mixed-use district.
(9) The building structure shall not be modified or converted for the specific purpose of
accommodating the group home use except to comply with Americans with
Disabilities Act requirements or other normal maintenance and repair.
(m) Hospital.
(1) Buildings located within 100 feet of a property zoned N-1 or N-2 shall be limited to
the lesser of four stories or 45 feet. The height of all other buildings more than 100
feet away in N-1 or N-2, or located in the N-3 or N-4 districts, shall be regulated by
yard and floor area ratio requirements.
(2) Access shall be to a roadway identified in the comprehensive plan as a collector or
arterial.
(3) Internal traffic circulation shall be designed to minimize traffic within 100 feet of any
property abutting a N district.
(4) Screening and a six foot privacy fence shall be installed and maintained along any
abutting N district.
(5) The property shall be designated for office use in the comprehensive plan.
(n) Hostel.
(1) The hostel shall be affiliated with a national or international hostel organization and
shall be subject to the operating procedures of such organization.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(2) The hostel shall be available for occupancy only by members of the affiliate or the
parent organization.
(3) The hours for check-in/check-out shall be limited to 6:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m.
(4) Overnight parking of vehicles whose passenger capacity exceeds 15 shall be
prohibited on the site.
(5) Outdoor recreational and play areas shall be located at least 25 feet from any lot
zoned N and either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional building,
including but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious institutions, and
community centers.
(6) No room shall contain more than four beds.
(o) Libraries.
(1) All structures shall be located a minimum of 30 feet from any parcel that is zoned N
and either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional building, including
but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious institutions, and
community centers.
(p) Manufactured home park.
(1) The manufactured home park, and all manufactured homes sited within it, must meet
all requirements set forth in state statutes.
(2) A responsible attendant or caretaker must be in charge at all times and shall be
responsible for ensuring the maintenance of the park, its facilities, and its equipment
in clean, ordinary, and sanitary condition.
(3) The manufactured home park must be at least 5 acres in size.
(4) The manufactured home park shall meet the density requirement set forth in the
comprehensive plan.
(5) Uses permitted within the park shall include only manufactured homes, storm
shelters, recreational facilities, and accessory uses to the manufactured homes,
including common laundering facilities, garages, sheds, and similar structures
necessary for the operation and maintenance of the park.
(6) All manufactured homes shall be equipped with an anchoring system approved by
the Minnesota Department of Administration (Building Code division). The frame,
wheels, crawl space, storage areas, and utility connections of all manufactured
homes shall be concealed from view by skirting made of durable all-weather
construction material that is consistent with the exterior of the manufactured home.
Installation of the skirting must be completed within 60 days of the placement of the
manufactured home on the pad. No obstruction shall be permitted that impedes the
inspection of plumbing and electrical facilities.
(7) The maximum coverage on individual manufactured home sites for the manufactured
home, any accessory structures, and driveway shall be 50%.
(8) Except for public, community, and utility structures, the maximum height of principal
and accessory structures shall not exceed 20 feet.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(q) Nursing home
(1) All structures shall be located a minimum of 30 feet from any parcel that is zoned N
and either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional building, including
but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious institutions, and
community centers.
(2) At least 12% of the lot area shall be developed as designed outdoor recreation area.
(r) Office less than 2,500 square feet.
(1) Access shall be to a roadway identified in the comprehensive plan as a collector or
arterial, or shall be otherwise located so that access can be provided without
generating significant traffic on local residential streets.
(2) The materials used in and placement of all signs shall be integrated with the building
design and architecture.
(3) The architecture of the building shall be residential in character.
(4) The parking areas shall be set back at least five feet from any parcel that is zoned N.
(s) Parks/recreation.
(1) All structures shall be located a minimum of 30 feet from any parcel that is zoned N
and either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional building, including
but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious institutions, and
community centers.
(2) Areas designated for group activities shall be located a minimum of 25 feet from any
parcel that is zoned N and either used for residential use or has an occupied
institutional building, including but not limited to educational (academic) facilities,
religious institutions, and community centers.
(3) Facilities which serve a regional function shall not be permitted.
(t) Police/fire station.
(1) All buildings shall be located a minimum of 30 feet from any parcel that is zoned N
and either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional building, including
but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious institutions, and
community centers.
(2) Access shall be to a roadway identified in the comprehensive plan as a collector or
arterial
(u) Public service structures.
(1) All structures shall be located a minimum of 15 feet from any parcel that is zoned N
and either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional building, including
but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious institutions, and
community centers.
(2) All service drives shall be paved.
(v) Religious institutions.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(1) All buildings shall be located a minimum of 30 feet from any parcel that is zoned N
and either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional building, including
but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious institutions, and
community centers.
(2) An off-street passenger loading area shall be provided in order to maintain vehicular
and pedestrian safety.
(3) Outdoor recreational and play areas shall be located at least 25 feet from any lot
zoned N and either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional building,
including but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious institutions, and
community centers.
(4) Access shall be to a roadway identified in the comprehensive plan as a collector or
arterial, or shall be otherwise located so that access can be provided without
generating significant traffic on local residential streets.
(w) State-licensed residential facility
(1) The facility shall serve no more than 16 persons.
Sec. 36-169. Use Specific Standards, Accessory
(a) Accessory dwelling units.
(1) Accessory dwelling units shall only be permitted on single-family lots.
(2) There shall be no more than one (1) accessory dwelling unit permitted per lot.
(3) Occupancy of the single-family lot, including both the principal dwelling unit and the
accessory dwelling unit, shall be limited to no more than one family and up to two
persons who are boarders/roomers or reside in one of the dwelling units.
(4) The initial construction of an accessory dwelling unit shall only occur on a property
that is occupied by the property owner as their primary residence.
(5) The accessory dwelling unit shall not be sold independently of the principal
residential dwelling and may not be a separate tax parcel.
(6) Accessory dwelling units that are attached to the principal dwelling unit shall be no
more than 40% of the gross floor area of the single-family dwelling.
(7) Accessory dwelling units that are detached from the principal residential structure
shall comply with the regulations for accessory structures and must comply with the
following additional requirements:
a. Detached accessory dwelling units shall be located a minimum of 15 feet from
any rear lot line unless the rear lot line is adjacent to an alley, in which case it
may be located five (5) feet from the rear lot line.
b. Detached accessory dwelling units located less than six (6) feet from the
principal dwelling is subject to the same side yard as required for the principal
dwelling. Detached accessory dwelling units located six (6) feet or more from the
principal dwelling shall be located a minimum of five (5) feet from any side
property line.
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c. Detached accessory dwelling units shall have a floor area greater than 200
square feet.
d. Balconies and decks above the ground floor shall not face an interior side yard or
a rear yard not abutting an alley. Rooftop decks for an accessory dwelling unit
shall not be allowed.
(8) Accessory dwellings may not be used for short term rental purposes.
(b) Accessory Dwelling Units affiliated with religious institution
(1) The dwelling units/living quarters shall be on the same property as the Religious
Institution.
(2) The dwelling units/living quarters shall at a minimum have access to on-site facilities
for cooking, sleeping, and bathing.
(3) At least 12% of the lot area shall be developed as a designed outdoor recreation
area.
(4) The persons living/staying on-site must be clergy, employees, or similarly associated
with the Religious Institution.
(5) The residential density of the accessory dwelling units/living quarters shall not
exceed the residential density that would otherwise be allowed on the property, and
in no case shall it exceed 15 persons.
(6) The combined gross floor area of the accessory dwelling units/living quarters shall be
less than the gross building area of the principal building and principal use.
(7) If the dwelling units/living quarters are not within the principal building:
a. The buildings shall be built on a permanent foundation and connected to city
sanitary sewer and water.
b. The accessory dwelling units/living quarters shall be exempt from Section 36-
162(d) regarding Accessory Structures.
c. The accessory building(s) shall be architecturally compatible with the principal
building.
d. The accessory building(s) shall not be taller or otherwise larger in scale than the
principal building.
(8) All required licenses or permits to establish and maintain the dwelling units/living
quarters shall be obtained.
(c) Accessory building.
(1) Accessory buildings located less than six feet from a principal building on the same
lot, measured from the nearest projection of each building, shall be considered part
of the principal building and shall follow principal building standards.
(2) All accessory buildings, including accessory buildings 200 square feet or less in
area, shall obtain a zoning or building permit prior to installation and must be
anchored in a manner approved by the city.
(3) Location.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
a. Shall not be in the front yard but can be located within the back or side yard.
b. Within the back yard, the following provisions shall be met:
1. Accessory buildings shall be located a minimum of two feet from any lot line.
2. Eaves, overhangs, gutters or other extensions from the roof shall be located
a minimum of 16 inches from any property line abutting a right-of-way and
two feet from all other property lines.
c. Detached garages when located in the side yard must conform to the side yard
requirements of the principal building.
d. Accessory buildings on through lots shall be subject to the front and side yard
requirements of the principal building if the accessory building is located within
60 feet of the rear lot line.
(4) Size.
a. The total cumulative ground floor area of all accessory buildings on single-family
lots and on non-conforming two-family lots in the N-1 and N-2 Districts shall not
exceed the smaller of 800 square feet or 25 percent of the back yard. This
provision shall not prohibit the construction of either a detached garage or a
detached accessory dwelling unit, or a combination thereof, that is no greater
than 576 square feet in area provided there are no other accessory buildings.
b. Accessory buildings on conforming two-family lots in the N-1 and N-2 Districts:
1. The total cumulative ground floor area of all accessory buildings shall not
exceed 25 percent of the area between the principal structure and rear lot
line.
2. No single accessory building may exceed 800 square feet in total area and
the cumulative area of all accessory buildings shall not exceed 1,200 square
feet unless approved as a conditional use.
3. The total cumulative ground floor area of all accessory buildings shall be
smaller than the ground floor area of the principal building on the lot.
(5) Height.
a. Accessory buildings - Shall not exceed 15 feet in height. The maximum height
may be increased to 24 feet where the primary exterior materials of the
accessory building match the primary exterior materials of the principal building
and the roof pitch matches a roof pitch of the principal building, and provided the
wall height shall not exceed 9 feet from the building ground floor to the highest
top plate of the exterior non-gable end walls. Dormers are exempt from the
height measurement if the combined width of the dormers is less than 50% of the
side of the building they are located on.
b. Accessory structures shall not exceed 15 feet in height.
c. The height of all accessory buildings and structures shall be lower than the
highest roof line of the principal building.
(6) Design.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
a. All detached garages and other accessory buildings shall be compatible in
design and materials to the principal building on the parcel.
b. No plumbing for kitchen or bathroom facilities (including but not limited to toilets
and showers) is allowed in any detached garage or other accessory building
unless it is determined to be an accessory dwelling unit. Hose bibs and utility
sinks are allowed.
c. Floor drains in garages and other accessory buildings must be connected to
sanitary sewer as approved by the city.
d. Windows, doors, and similar openings may be located in the second story of an
accessory building if the wall or dormer in which it is located faces a lot line that
abuts a public right-of-way or is at least 15 feet from any property that is zoned
residential and used or subdivided for residential use.
e. Accessory buildings used for dwelling purposes shall also comply with the
regulations set forth for accessory dwelling units above.
(7) Garages below grade level. Where the natural grade of a lot at the building line of a
house is eight feet or more above the established curb level, a private garage may
be erected within any yard provided one-half or more of its height is below grade
level and it is located a minimum of ten feet from any street line and five feet from
any side lot line.
(d) Adult day care in a religious institution, community center, or nursing home
(1) There shall be at least 150 square feet of outdoor sitting and exercise area per
person under care at peak periods.
(e) Boarders or roomers
(1) Up to two boarders or roomers shall be allowed per resident family provided the
living area for the boarders/roomers is within the principal building and does not
constitute a separate dwelling unit.
(f) Catering
(1) Allowed only as accessory to community centers, educational (academic) facilities,
country clubs, and religious institutions.
(2) Vehicles used to receive and/or deliver food shall not be stored outside.
(g) Community garden
(1) Allowed only as accessory to community centers, educational (academic) facilities,
country clubs, and religious institutions.
(h) Family day care facilities serving 14 or fewer persons
(1) Only one employee who does not live within the dwelling unit is allowed.
(i) Group day care/nursery school in a religious institution, community center, or
educational (academic) institution.
(1) At least 40 square feet of outside play space per pupil is provided.
(2) The outside play space shall be enclosed with a fence.
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(3) The outside play area shall be located a minimum of 200 feet from any roadway
defined on the comprehensive plan as a principal arterial.
(j) Helistops.
(1) Helistops shall be used exclusively in connection with a hospital and is subordinate
to the hospital in area, extent, and purpose.
(2) The helicopter pad must be dust free and screened from view and takeoff and
landings shall not be over residential areas.
(3) Hours of operation shall be limited to 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., excluding emergency
operations.
(k) Home occupation.
(1) See section 36-83.
(l) Living quarters of persons employed for domestic or medical purposes
(1) The living area for the domestic/medical household staff shall be within the principal
building and does not constitute a separate dwelling unit.
(m) Mikvah pools
(1) Shall be allowed within an occupied single family dwelling unit if there are three
additional off-street parking spaces.
(2) Shall be accessory to a religious institution.
(n) Parking ramps.
(1) The height of any parking ramp located within 200 feet of any parcel that is zoned N
and either used for residential use or has an occupied institutional building, including
but not limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious institutions, and
community centers may not penetrate the height of a line commencing at and
perpendicular to said parcel line and extending upward and away from said parcel at
a slope of five horizontal feet for each vertical foot.
(2) The minimum required yard for any parking ramp located within 200 feet of any
parcel that is zoned N and either used for residential use or has an occupied
institutional building, including but not limited to educational (academic) facilities,
religious institutions, and community centers shall be 50 feet.
(3) The parking ramp shall be screened from view from any abutting property located
within an N district. The screening shall include a six-foot berm where the parking
ramp is above ground.
(4) If the parking ramp is located within 400 feet of any parcel that is zoned N and either
used for residential use or has an occupied institutional building, including but not
limited to educational (academic) facilities, religious institutions, and community
centers, all light sources on the top deck of a parking ramp shall be below the sight
lines drawn from a point one foot above the light source to any point within said
parcel ten feet lower than the maximum structure height of that use at a distance of
400 feet from the wall of the parking ramp nearest to said parcel.
(o) Private swimming pool, whirlpool, or sauna
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St. Louis Park Zoning Code
(1) Shall only be permitted in the backyard and side yards.
(2) Shall be a minimum of five feet from the rear lot line.
(3) Shall meet the same side yards as required for the principal building.
(4) A six -foot privacy fence shall be required to screen the portion of the swimming pool,
whirlpool, or sauna located within 25 feet of the rear lot line.
(5) Private swimming pools shall be in conformance with section 36-73;
(6) A pool house building shall be in conformance with the following conditions:
a. Property must have an in-ground swimming pool that is larger in area than the
pool house building.
b. The pool house cannot exceed 400 square feet in area and one story in height.
c. Notwithstanding section 36-162, the pool house must meet all principal building
yard requirements.
d. The building design and materials shall be consistent with the principal building.
e. The building may include a bathroom but shall not include kitchen facilities.
f. The building cannot be designed or used as a dwelling unit or for any business
use.
(p) Private sport court
(1) Shall be permitted in the backyard and side yards only
(2) Shall be a minimum of five feet from the rear lot line.
(3) Shall meet the same side yards as required for the principal building.
(4) A six -foot privacy fence shall be required to screen the portion of the sport court
located within 25 feet of the rear lot line.
(5) Tennis courts shall be in conformance with section 36-73 of city code
(q) Supportive commercial use.
(1) Shall not exceed ten percent of the gross floor area of the development.
Sec. 36-170. – 36-190. Reserved
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