14 - Restrictions on Storage Containers

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Item No. 14 memorandum TO: Mayor & Council FROM: John Godwin, City Manager SUBJECT: STORAGE CONTAINERS DATE: August 1, 2019 BACKGROUND: As part of an overall effort to improve the look of the city, we have examined the need to restrict portable storage containers, which by their very nature are intended to be temporary. In commercial areas, such structures are common and necessary, though we should consider how and where they may be placed, and for how long. In residential areas, these temporary structures often become permanent. They can make a neighborhood look junky, affect view corridors, hamper the flow of drainage, become harborages for vermin and insects, carry significant wind loads, etc. The current Section 13 in our zoning code does not adequately address any of these issues. STATUS OF ISSUE: By limiting the number of such structures on a piece of property, defining its placement in relation to property lines and other structures, and limiting units' overall sizes, we believe over time we can significantly help improve the look and feel of certain areas. In non-residential areas we propose standards for seasonal storage, addressing safety concerns, and requiring permanent structures to be moved away from the front of properties. This would still allow these units to be used, but in a more responsible manner and consistent with other restrictions in place for accessory buildings. In the attachment, existing code is in black text and proposes changes are in blue. BUDGET: NA. RECOMMENDATION: Discussion only.