This item had its first reading on May 19, 2015. At the second reading on June 2, 2015, the item was tabled to explore the issue further and seek additional comments. The ordinance has been discussed with the public at three workshops held in different locations in the City.
Residential parking was originally discussed at a City Council work session on January 20, 2015. That earlier draft addressed parking regulations on commercial and multi-family properties as well as those on single-family and duplex properties. It was based on a visual preference survey of the Land Development Review Board which showed a preference for parking in the front or side yard on a paved surface (driveway) or on paved spaces located parallel to the driveway. That version was much broader, addressing regulations on space layout, dimensions, aisle width, loading areas, and wheel stops, as well as RVs/boats/trailers.
Parking standards were only generally addressed in the property maintenance ordinance approved by City Council late last year. It did not address parking location or surface standards. There are many locations where makeshift parking has expanded in front yard and side yard areas beyond driveways. Vehicles are parked in yards, and not on paved driveways, often creating unsightly views for neighbors. The current Code offers limited parking regulations. The lack of standards has negatively impacted the residential character of neighborhoods and property values.
This ordinance addresses parking of vehicles on residentially-zoned properties and other properties on which there is a residential use, excluding recreational vehicles, watercraft, and trailers. It establishes that parking in the front or side yard is relegated to driveways which shall be paved with concrete, asphalt, brick or pavers, or surfaced with crushed stone, crushed rock, gravel or shell. Accessory parking spaces, located in the front yard and/or side yard, parallel to the driveway, may also be surfaced with organic mulch. The proposed ordinance does not address parking space surfaces in the rear yard where vehicles may park on grass.
Exhibits have been provided to illustrate the intent of the ordinance, including a new "ribbon" driveway. Definitions of terms have also been provided; specifically, definitions for “driveway,” “trailer,” and “vehicle” are added. The proposed new language is shown with underlining and deleted language is shown with strikethrough. The format has been improved to make it easier to read. The effective date is proposed 90 days following adoption. Within that timeframe, Code Enforcement will provide informational brochures to affected property owners.
Compatibility with Comprehensive Plan:
The proposal is consistent with the following Comprehensive Plan objectives and policies:
· FLU 1.1.2 - To implement the Comprehensive Plan, the City shall continue to implement land development regulations that contain specific and detailed provisions which, at minimum, shall: (l) Provide requirements for the provision of open space, and safe and convenient on-site traffic flow and parking requirements; and
· LIV 1.1.1 - Encourage new development and redevelopment to utilize traditional neighborhood development (TND) principles which address the following features: h) Parking: Cars stored toward the back of the lot, accessible by alleys, when feasible; shared driveways; and duplex or quadriplex garages at the rear lot line.