09.c1 UDC Amendment for Exterior Storage of Vehicles - CC Packet
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Date of Meeting: April 15, 2025
To: Honorable Mayor and Members of the City Council
From: T.J. Hofer, Consultant City Planner
Re: UDC Amendment for Exterior Storage of Vehicles
City staff have prepared a draft ordinance that would amend a section of the Unified
Development Code to address concerns around exterior storage of vehicles.
BACKGROUND
The City of Scandia was asked to provide stricter enforcement of the standards for exterior
storage on properties around lakes within the City. Specific concerns were expressed to cities in
areas that are zoned Rural Residential Neighborhood (RR-N). A letter was sent to residents
detailing the concerns and standards adopted by ordinance. Exterior storage and parking of
vehicles is addressed in both Chapter 91 Nuisances as well as having standards within Chapter
153.400.090 Exterior Storage.
The City Council held a work session on April 2, 2025, to discuss the issue. At the meeting the
Council discussed the standards and took input from residents. The Council directed staff to
prepare an amendment to the relevant ordinances to address the comments and concerns
identified in the work session.
SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE AMENDMENT
153.400.010 EXTERIOR STORAGE
Subd. 1. Summary and Intent. The City is divided into different Character Areas and
Zoning Districts each with different dimensional standards and requirements that have a
direct impact on the use of property including exterior storage. The purpose of this
section is to establish regulations for exterior storage that are correlated to the Character
Area and/or Zoning District.
Subd. 2. Exterior Storage and Off-Street Parking for Residential and Agricultural
Uses. Exterior storage shall be regulated by the following standards.
(A) Residential and Agricultural Uses. All materials, machinery, vehicles, and
equipment must be stored within a building or fully screened so that it is not visible
from adjoining properties and public streets, except for the following:
I. Construction, landscaping, and agricultural materials and equipment currently
(within a period of 6 months) being used on the premises.
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II. Off-street parking of licensed passenger automobiles and pick-up trucks; and
the parking of such other motor vehicles as may be permitted by Section
[153.400.080].
III. Recreation Equipment (non-vehicular) and Recreation Facilities may be
stored outside.
IV. Storage of not more than 2two Large Recreational Vehicles (LRV) or
Recreation Camping Vehicles (RCV) as permitted in this Section.
V. Recreation Camping Vehicles, while parked or stored, may not be used as a
human dwelling place, living abode or living quarters, on property on which
a permanent dwelling is located for a period not to exceed 30 days per year
while visiting the resident of said property. except that such a vehicle owned
by a non-resident guest or visitor may be parked or occupied by said guest or
visitor on property on which a permanent dwelling is located, for a period not
to exceed 30 days per year while visiting the resident of said property. The
recreation camping vehicle or trailer must have compliant self-contained
sanitary facilities.
(B) Non-Residential and Non-Agricultural Uses. Exterior storage of useable personal
property accessory to an allowed commercial, industrial or other non-residential or
non-agricultural use may be allowed by Conditional Use Permit. All such exterior
storage in commercial/industrial areas must be screened as provided by Section
[153.400.060], with the following exceptions:
(C) Merchandise being displayed for sale;
(D) Materials and equipment currently being used for construction on the premises; and
(E)(B) Merchandise located on service station pump islands.
A significant number of changes have been made to clarify the language within the ordinance
and reorganize the section. Staff believes this will aid in the usability of the ordinance and
provide clarity. The above “Non-Residential and Non-Agricultural Uses” section was moved to
the end of the section.
(F)(C) Storage of Large Recreational Vehicles (LRV) or Recreation Camping Vehicles
(RCV). Storage of large recreational vehicles or recreation camping vehicles is
permitted on residential and agricultural parcels as follows:
I. Generally, in addition to the requirements below, the exterior storage of large
recreational vehicles is permitted, provided that:
a. Corner lots. In the case of a corner lot, LRV or RCV may be stored on
the side of an attached or detached garage adjacent to the public road
right-of-way, but must be located at least 20 feet from the public right-
of-way and must be screened from view by a fence, existing vegetation,
or plantings that are a minimum six feet in height.
b. Drainage and utility easements. LRV or RCV may not be parked
within a drainage or utility easement.
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a.c. Parking of licensed LRV and RCV is prohibited on all public roadways
except while being loaded or unloaded for a period not to exceed 24
hours.
Staff have moved the above language from the end of the standards to the beginning as the
ordinance as it appears to apply these to all exterior storage of vehicles regardless of the
standards for more specific cases in the ordinance below. These standards exist currently.
II. RR-N zoned district. Exterior storage and off-street parking on parcels zoned
RR-N are allowed the following:
a. Up to one RCV may be stored on a property.
b. Up to five LRV may be stored on a property.
c. Boats, boat docks, and boat lifts may be stored outside in the front,
side, and rear yard.
d. The vehicles must be stored entirely on the owner’s property and must
be located at least five feet from the side lot lines, and at least 10 feet
from the rear lot line.
b.e. LRV or RCV may be stored on pervious or impervious surfaces.
Staff drafted the above language based on the discussion at the April 2, 2025, City Council work
session. One standard that staff was unclear on was if boats, boat docks, and boat lifts were
intended to be included in the number of LRV allowed on a property or if they were intended to
still be exempted as they are on lakeshore/riparian parcels.
II.III. Lakeshore Riparian parcels.
a. Boats, boat docks, and boat lifts may be stored outside on the lake side
of lakeshore parcels, the front yard on riparian lots between September
15 and May 30, and are not included in the total number of LRV or
RCV permitted on those parcels in items BIV and CV below.
Staff drafted the above language based on the discussion at the April 2, 2025, City Council work
session. The date restrictions have been removed and additional clarity has been included to note
that the front (lakeward) yard can be used for storage.
III.IV. Parcels one-half acre (0.5 acre) or less in area.
a. One LRV or RCV may be stored outside on the parcel.
b. The vehicle must be stored entirely on the owner’s property and must
be located at least five (5) feet from the side lot lines, and at least ten
(10) feet from the rear lot line.
c. If the physical conditions on the parcel (including but not limited to
steep slopes, locations of wetlands, location of the principal structure)
prevent the location of the LRV or RCV within the side or rear yard,
the property owner may obtain an administrative permit authorizing the
location of the vehicle in the front yard.
IV.V. Parcels larger than one-half acre (0.5 acres) in area:
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a. Up to two LRVs or RCVs may be stored on the parcel.
b.a. The vehicles must be stored entirely on the owner’s property and must
be located at least five (5) feet from the side lot lines, and at least ten (
10) feet from the rear lot line.
c.b. Storage of any vehicle in the front yard must be located within the side
or rear yard at least two hundred (200) feet from the road right-of-way.
Staff drafted the above language based on the discussion at the April 2, 2025, City Council work
session. The language now allows for storage of vehicles in side or year yards of properties
larger than 0.5 acres, instead of regulating placement based on distance from right-of-way.
(G) In addition to the requirements above, the exterior storage of large recreational
vehicles is permitted, provided that:
(H) Corner lots. In the case of a corner lot, LRV or RCV may be stored on the side of
an attached or detached garage adjacent to the public road right-of-way, but must
be located at least twenty (20) feet from the public right-of-way and must be
screened from view by a fence, existing vegetation, or plantings that are a
minimum six (6) feet in height.
(I) Drainage and utility easements. LRV or RCV may not be parked within a drainage
or utility easement.
(J)(D) Parking of licensed LRV and RCV is prohibited on all public roadways except
while being loaded or unloaded for a period not to exceed twenty-four (24) hours.
The above standards were moved to earlier in the document.
(E) Off-Street Parking for Residential and Agricultural Uses.
I. The number of vehicles that may be parked or stored outside of a building on
improved parking areas, except visitors and guests by permission of the
property resident, shall be based on the number of licensed drivers that reside
on a property.
II. Off street parking facilities accessory to residential and agricultural uses must
be utilized solely for the parking of passenger automobiles, and trucks with a
maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) 12,000 pounds or less, and
no more than 30 feet in length, and vehicles defined as a RCV.
I.III. No more than 4 such vehicles per lawful dwelling unit may be parked or
stored outside of a building on parcels of 10 acres or less except visitors and
guests by permission of the property resident. More than 4 vehicles may be
permitted within an Interim Use Permit.
Staff drafted the above language based on the discussion at the April 2, 2025, City Council work
session. The language now sets standards for the number of vehicles that can be parked or stored
on a building based on the number of licensed drivers that reside in a dwelling. Staff has
concerns regarding the enforceability of the ordinance as it is not metric that staff can easily
observe and document, however, that does not inherently mean the standard cannot be adopted.
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Staff have also added an exception as to what kinds of vehicles can be parked on a residential
and agricultural parcel, as the existing standards for a GVWR 12,000 pounds or less, and no
more than 30 feet in length truck could cause issues for some RCV depending on interpretation
of the code. The drafted language established clearly that RCV can be parked and stored on
residential and agricultural parcels.
II.IV. Larger trucks, contracting or excavating equipment, and storage trailers, aside
from those allowed in 153.400.010 Subd. 2. (C), may not be parked, stored,
or otherwise located on any lot, with the following exceptions:
i.a. Trucks, tractors, and other vehicles and equipment directly associated
with an agricultural use of the property.; or
b. When loading, unloading, rendering service, or being used in
conjunction with a temporary service including, but not limited to, a
construction or remodeling project benefiting the premises.
Draft standards include references to clarify what is allowed on a parcel.
i.V. Licensed vehicles parked or stored outside on residential or agricultural
property shall be parked as follows:
a. Vehicles must be parked on a paved driveway or other impervious
surface that is a designated driveway or parking area.
ii.b. Visitors and guests may park on a boulevard or open yard space with
the permission of the owner of the property for up to 72 hours.
Subd. 3. Non-Residential and Non-Agricultural Uses. Exterior storage of useable
personal property accessory to an allowed commercial, industrial or other non-residential
or non-agricultural use may be allowed by Conditional Use Permit. All such exterior
storage in commercial/industrial areas must be screened as provided by Section
[153.400.060], with the following exceptions:
(A) Merchandise being displayed for sale;
(B) Materials and equipment currently being used for construction on the premises; and
(K)(C) Merchandise located on service station pump islands.
I.Subd. 4. Vacant Lots. No personal property, vehicles, recreation equipment, large
recreational vehicles, recreational camping vehicles, lumber or materials (except during
the process of construction of a structure) may be kept or maintained on any lot or
property on which a permanent structure is not located. This standard does not include
contiguous parcels or lots that are under the same ownership on which a principal
structure is constructed.
II.Subd. 5. Shipping Containers. No more than one shipping container, intermodal
shipping container or freight container may be stored in a side or rear yard in all Zoning
Districts, provided that any such side yard storage may not be adjacent to a street and all
setbacks must be met. The container may be located on the property for a period not to
exceed six (6) months per year, and is only permitted as storage while remodeling or
other similar activities relating to the property are active.
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The above language exists in the ordinance, but staff believes it was in the incorrect level of the
hierarchy of the code.
153.600.030 DEFINITIONS OF USE, STANDARDS AND TERMS
(A) This subsection will list all definitions contained in this Chapter.
192. Recreation Vehicle, Camping: Any travel trailers, chassis-mounted
campers, motor homes, tent trailers, slide-in campers, and any vehicle or
structure which meets the following qualifications:
Any vehicular, portable structure mounted on wheels to be towed by a
self-propelled vehicle, and designed to be used as temporary living
quarters for travel, vacation uses or for recreational uses. Such structures
include travel trailers, pop-up (including folding and retractable)
campers, ice-fishing houses, and the like.
Any vehicular, portable structure designed to be mounted on a truck
upon a self-propelled vehicle for use as temporary living quarters for
travel, recreation, or vacation uses. Such structures include, but are not
limited to, pick-up campers.
Any vehicular, portable structure mounted on wheels, designed to be
used as temporary living quarters for travel, recreation, or vacation uses,
and which is constructed as an integral part of a self-propelled vehicle.
Such vehicles include motorhomes, mini-motorhomes, buses converted
into campers, and the like.
193. Recreation Vehicle, Large (LRV): Recreational vehicles that are operable
and licensed (if required) including but not limited to: : travel trailers,
chassis-mounted campers, motor homes, tent trailers, slide-in campers,
airplanes, converted buses, snowmobiles and trailers, boats/watercraft and
trailers, ice fish houses and trailers, all-terrain vehicles, and utility trailers.
Staff drafted the above language based on the discussion at the April 2, 2025, City Council work
session. The amendment removes “travel trailers, chassis-mounted campers, motor homes, tent
trailers, slide-in campers” from the LRV definition and adds them to the RCV definition.
COUNCIL ACTION
The City Council can choose to have the language move forward through the amendment process
by recommending the ordinance amendment to the Planning Commission or have staff revise the
amendment for Council consideration before recommending the amendment to the Planning
Commission.
RECOMMEDNATION
Staff recommend the Council discuss the draft ordinance amendment language and recommend
the ordinance amendment regarding exterior storage of vehicles to the Planning Commission to
be heard at a public hearing at the next possible meeting.
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Attachments
A. Redline Draft Section 153.400.090 Exterior Storage
B. Clean Draft Section 153.400.090 Exterior Storage
C. Redline Draft Section 153.600.030 Definitions of Use, Standards and Term
D. Clean Draft Section 153.600.030 Definitions of Use, Standards and Term
E. Zoning Map
F. City Council "Exterior Storage in Rural Residential – Neighborhood Zoning District”
Packet, April 2, 2025
City of Scandia, MN
CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC)
SECTION 153.400 DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTER AND BUILDING STANDARDS
Adopted 09.20.2022, last amended 12.21.2023 (Ord. No. 2023-17) 153.400
page-45
153.400.090 EXTERIOR STORAGE
Subd. 1. Summary and Intent. The City is divided into different Character Areas and Zoning Districts each with
different dimensional standards and requirements that have a direct impact on the use of property including
exterior storage. The purpose of this section is to establish regulations for exterior storage that are correlated to the
Character Area and/or Zoning District.
Subd. 2. Exterior Storage and Off-Street Parking for Residential and Agricultural Uses. Exterior storage
shall be regulated by the following standards.
(A) Residential and Agricultural Uses. All materials, machinery, vehicles, and equipment must be stored within a
building or fully screened so that it is not visible from adjoining properties and public streets, except for the
following:
I. Construction, landscaping and agricultural materials and equipment currently (within a period of 6
months) being used on the premises.
II. Off-street parking of licensed passenger automobiles and pick-up trucks; and the parking of such
other motor vehicles as may be permitted by Section [153.400.080].
III. Recreation Equipment (non-vehicular) and Recreation Facilities may be stored outside.
IV. Storage of not more than 2two Large Recreational Vehicles (LRV) or Recreation Camping Vehicles
(RCV) as permitted in this Section.
V. Recreation Camping Vehicles, while parked or stored, may not be used as a human dwelling place,
living abode or living quarters, on property on which a permanent dwelling is located for a period
not to exceed 30 days per year while visiting the resident of said property. except that such a vehicle
owned by a non-resident guest or visitor may be parked or occupied by said guest or visitor on
property on which a permanent dwelling is located, for a period not to exceed 30 days per year while
visiting the resident of said property. The recreation camping vehicle or trailer must have compliant
self-contained sanitary facilities.
(B) Non-Residential and Non-Agricultural Uses. Exterior storage of useable personal property accessory to an
allowed commercial, industrial or other non-residential or non-agricultural use may be allowed by
Conditional Use Permit. All such exterior storage in commercial/industrial areas must be screened as
provided by Section [153.400.060], with the following exceptions:
I. Merchandise being displayed for sale;
II. Materials and equipment currently being used for construction on the premises; and
III. Merchandise located on service station pump islands.
(C)(B) Storage of Large Recreational Vehicles (LRV) or Recreation Camping Vehicles (RCV). Storage of large
recreational vehicles or recreation camping vehicles is permitted on residential and agricultural parcels as
follows:
I. Generally, in addition to the requirements below, the exterior storage of large recreational vehicles is
permitted, provided that:
a. Corner lots. In the case of a corner lot, LRV or RCV may be stored on the side of an attached
or detached garage adjacent to the public road right-of-way, but must be located at least 20
feet from the public right-of-way and must be screened from view by a fence, existing
vegetation, or plantings that are a minimum six feet in height.
b. Drainage and utility easements. LRV or RCV may not be parked within a drainage or utility
easement.
c. Parking of licensed LRV and RCV is prohibited on all public roadways except while being
loaded or unloaded for a period not to exceed 24 hours.
Attachment A. Redline Draft Section 153.400.090 Exterior Storage
City of Scandia, MN
CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC)
SECTION 153.400 DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTER AND BUILDING STANDARDS
Adopted 09.20.2022, last amended 12.21.2023 (Ord. No. 2023-17) 153.400
page-46
II. RR-N zoned district. Exterior storage and off-street parking in on parcels zoned RR-N are allowed
the following:
a. Up to one RCV may be stored on a property.
b. Up to five LRV may be stored on a property.
c. Boats, boat docks, and boat lifts may be stored outside in the front, side, and rear yard.
d. The vehicles must be stored entirely on the owner’s property and must be located at least five
feet from the side lot lines, and at least 10 feet from the rear lot line.
e. LRV or RCV may be stored on pervious or impervious surfaces.
I.III. LakeshoreRiparian parcels.
a. Boats, boat docks, and boat lifts may be stored outside on the lake side of lakeshore parcels,
the front yard on riparian lots between September 15 and May 30, and are not included in the
total number of LRV or RCV permitted on those parcels in items BIII and CIV below.
II.IV. Parcels one-half acre (0.5 acre) or less in area.
a. One LRV or RCV may be stored outside on the parcel.
b. The vehicle must be stored entirely on the owner’s property and must be located at least five
(5) feet from the side lot lines, and at least ten (10) feet from the rear lot line.
c. If the physical conditions on the parcel (including but not limited to steep slopes, locations of
wetlands, location of the principal structure) prevent the location of the LRV or RCV within
the side or rear yard, the property owner may obtain an administrative permit authorizing the
location of the vehicle in the front yard.
III.V. Parcels larger than one-half acre (0.5 acres) in area:
a. Up to two LRVs or RCVs may be stored on the parcel.
b.a. The vehicles must be stored entirely on the owner’s property and must be located at least five
(5) feet from the side lot lines, and at least ten ( 10) feet from the rear lot line.
c.b. Storage of any vehicle in the front yard must be located within the side or rear yard at least
two hundred (200) feet from the road right-of-way.
IV. In addition to the requirements above, the exterior storage of large recreational vehicles is permitted,
provided that:
a. Corner lots. In the case of a corner lot, LRV or RCV may be stored on the side of an attached
or detached garage adjacent to the public road right-of-way, but must be located at least
twenty (20) feet from the public right-of-way and must be screened from view by a fence,
existing vegetation, or plantings that are a minimum six (6) feet in height.
b. Drainage and utility easements. LRV or RCV may not be parked within a drainage or utility
easement.
c. Parking of licensed LRV and RCV is prohibited on all public roadways except while being
loaded or unloaded for a period not to exceed twenty-four (24) hours.
(C) Off-Street Parking for Residential and Agricultural Uses.
I. The number of vehicles that may be parked or stored outside of a building on improved parking
areas, except visitors and guests by permission of the property resident, shall be based on the
number of licensed drivers that reside on a property.
II. Off street parking facilities accessory to residential and agricultural uses must be utilized solely for
the parking of passenger automobiles, and trucks with a maximum gross vehicle weight rating
City of Scandia, MN
CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC)
SECTION 153.400 DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTER AND BUILDING STANDARDS
Adopted 09.20.2022, last amended 12.21.2023 (Ord. No. 2023-17) 153.400
page-47
(GVWR) 12,000 pounds or less, and no more than 30 feet in length, and vehicles that meet the
definition of a RCV.
V. No more than 4 such vehicles per lawful dwelling unit may be parked or stored outside of a building
on parcels of 10 acres or less except visitors and guests by permission of the property resident. More
than 4 vehicles may be permitted within an Interim Use Permit.
a.III. Larger trucks, contracting or excavating equipment, and storage trailers, aside from those allowed in
153.400.090 Subd. 2. (B), may not be parked, stored, or otherwise located on any lot, with the
following exceptions:
i.a. Trucks, tractors, and other vehicles and equipment directly associated with an agricultural use
of the property.; or
ii.b. When loading, unloading, rendering service, or being used in conjunction with a temporary
service including, but not limited to, a construction or remodeling project benefiting the
premises.
iii.IV. Licensed vehicles parked or stored outside on residential or agricultural property shall be parked as
follows:
a. Vehicles must be parked on a paved driveway or other impervious surface that is a designated
driveway or parking area.
iv.b. Visitors and guests may park on a boulevard or open yard space with the permission of the
owner of the property for up to 72 hours.
Subd. 3. Non-Residential and Non-Agricultural Uses. Exterior storage of useable personal property accessory to
an allowed commercial, industrial or other non-residential or non-agricultural use may be allowed by Conditional
Use Permit. All such exterior storage in commercial/industrial areas must be screened as provided by Section
[153.400.060], with the following exceptions:
(A) Merchandise being displayed for sale;
(B) Materials and equipment currently being used for construction on the premises; and
(C) Merchandise located on service station pump islands.
VI.Subd. 4. Vacant Lots. No personal property, vehicles, recreation equipment, large recreational vehicles,
recreational camping vehicles, lumber or materials (except during the process of construction of a structure) may
be kept or maintained on any lot or property on which a permanent structure is not located. This standard does
not include contiguous parcels or lots that are under the same ownership on which a principal structure is
constructed.
VII.Subd. 5. Shipping Containers. No more than one shipping container, intermodal shipping container or freight
container may be stored in a side or rear yard in all Zoning Districts, provided that any such side yard storage may
not be adjacent to a street and all setbacks must be met. The container may be located on the property for a period
not to exceed six (6) months per year, and is only permitted as storage while remodeling or other similar activities
relating to the property are active.
153.400.100 SIGNS
Subd. 1. Summary and Intent. The sign standards within this Section are established to allow for the appropriate
types, scale and size of signs based on the Character Area and Zoning District where the sign is located.
Subd. 2. Applicability. The regulations contained herein do not apply to signs painted, attached by adhesive or
otherwise attached directly to or visible through windows and glass portions of doors.
(A) No Permit is required for the following signs:
I. Signs, except those specifically defined within this Section, up to ten (10) square feet in area.
City of Scandia, MN
CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC)
SECTION 153.400 DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTER AND BUILDING STANDARDS
Adopted 09.20.2022, last amended 12.21.2023 (Ord. No. 2023-17) 153.400
page-45
153.400.090 EXTERIOR STORAGE
Subd. 1. Summary and Intent. The City is divided into different Character Areas and Zoning Districts each with
different dimensional standards and requirements that have a direct impact on the use of property including
exterior storage. The purpose of this section is to establish regulations for exterior storage that are correlated to the
Character Area and/or Zoning District.
Subd. 2. Exterior Storage and Off-Street Parking for Residential and Agricultural Uses. Exterior storage
shall be regulated by the following standards.
(A) Residential and Agricultural Uses. All materials, machinery, vehicles, and equipment must be stored within a
building or fully screened so that it is not visible from adjoining properties and public streets, except for the
following:
I. Construction, landscaping and agricultural materials and equipment currently (within a period of 6
months) being used on the premises.
II. Off-street parking of licensed passenger automobiles and pick-up trucks; and the parking of such
other motor vehicles as may be permitted by Section [153.400.080].
III. Recreation Equipment (non-vehicular) and Recreation Facilities may be stored outside.
IV. Storage of not more than two Large Recreational Vehicles (LRV) or Recreation Camping Vehicles
(RCV) as permitted in this Section.
V. Recreation Camping Vehicles, while parked or stored, may be used as a human dwelling place, living
abode or living quarters, on property on which a permanent dwelling is located for a period not to
exceed 30 days per year while visiting the resident of said property. The recreation camping vehicle
or trailer must have compliant self-contained sanitary facilities.
(B) Storage of Large Recreational Vehicles (LRV) or Recreation Camping Vehicles (RCV). Storage of large
recreational vehicles or recreation camping vehicles is permitted on residential and agricultural parcels as
follows:
I. Generally, in addition to the requirements below, the exterior storage of large recreational vehicles is
permitted, provided that:
a. Corner lots. In the case of a corner lot, LRV or RCV may be stored on the side of an attached
or detached garage adjacent to the public road right-of-way, but must be located at least 20
feet from the public right-of-way and must be screened from view by a fence, existing
vegetation, or plantings that are a minimum six feet in height.
b. Drainage and utility easements. LRV or RCV may not be parked within a drainage or utility
easement.
c. Parking of licensed LRV and RCV is prohibited on all public roadways except while being
loaded or unloaded for a period not to exceed 24 hours.
II. RR-N zoned district. Exterior storage and off-street parking in on parcels zoned RR-N are allowed
the following:
a. Up to one RCV may be stored on a property.
b. Up to five LRV may be stored on a property.
c. Boats, boat docks, and boat lifts may be stored outside in the front, side, and rear yard.
d. The vehicles must be stored entirely on the owner’s property and must be located at least five
feet from the side lot lines, and at least 10 feet from the rear lot line.
e. LRV or RCV may be stored on pervious or impervious surfaces.
III. Riparian parcels.
Attachment B.Clean Draft Section 153.400.090 Exterior Storage
City of Scandia, MN
CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC)
SECTION 153.400 DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTER AND BUILDING STANDARDS
Adopted 09.20.2022, last amended 12.21.2023 (Ord. No. 2023-17) 153.400
page-46
a. Boats, boat docks, and boat lifts may be stored outside on the lake side of lakeshore parcels,
the front yard on riparian lots, and are not included in the total number of LRV or RCV
permitted on those parcels in items III and IV below.
IV. Parcels 0.5 acre or less in area.
a. One LRV or RCV may be stored outside on the parcel.
b. The vehicle must be stored entirely on the owner’s property and must be located at least five
feet from the side lot lines, and at least 10 feet from the rear lot line.
c. If the physical conditions on the parcel (including but not limited to steep slopes, locations of
wetlands, location of the principal structure) prevent the location of the LRV or RCV within
the side or rear yard, the property owner may obtain an administrative permit authorizing the
location of the vehicle in the front yard.
V. Parcels larger than 0.5 acres in area:
a. The vehicles must be stored entirely on the owner’s property and must be located at least five
feet from the side lot lines, and at least 10 feet from the rear lot line.
b. Storage of any vehicle must be located within the side or rear yard.
(C) Off-Street Parking for Residential and Agricultural Uses.
I. The number of vehicles that may be parked or stored outside of a building on improved parking
areas, except visitors and guests by permission of the property resident, shall be based on the
number of licensed drivers that reside on a property.
II. Off street parking facilities accessory to residential and agricultural uses must be utilized solely for
the parking of passenger automobiles, trucks with a maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR)
12,000 pounds or less, and no more than 30 feet in length, and vehicles that meet the definition of a
RCV.
III. Larger trucks, contracting or excavating equipment, and storage trailers, aside from those allowed in
153.400.090 Subd. 2. (B), may not be parked, stored, or otherwise located on any lot, with the
following exceptions:
a. Trucks, tractors, and other vehicles and equipment directly associated with an agricultural use
of the property.
b. When loading, unloading, rendering service, or being used in conjunction with a temporary
service including, but not limited to, a construction or remodeling project benefiting the
premises.
IV. Licensed vehicles parked or stored outside on residential or agricultural property shall be parked as
follows:
a. Vehicles must be parked on a paved driveway or other impervious surface that is a designated
driveway or parking area.
b. Visitors and guests may park on a boulevard or open yard space with the permission of the
owner of the property for up to 72 hours.
Subd. 3. Non-Residential and Non-Agricultural Uses. Exterior storage of useable personal property accessory to
an allowed commercial, industrial or other non-residential or non-agricultural use may be allowed by Conditional
Use Permit. All such exterior storage in commercial/industrial areas must be screened as provided by Section
[153.400.060], with the following exceptions:
(A) Merchandise being displayed for sale;
(B) Materials and equipment currently being used for construction on the premises; and
(C) Merchandise located on service station pump islands.
City of Scandia, MN
CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC)
SECTION 153.400 DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTER AND BUILDING STANDARDS
Adopted 09.20.2022, last amended 12.21.2023 (Ord. No. 2023-17) 153.400
page-47
Subd. 4. Vacant Lots. No personal property, vehicles, recreation equipment, large recreational vehicles,
recreational camping vehicles, lumber or materials (except during the process of construction of a structure) may
be kept or maintained on any lot or property on which a permanent structure is not located. This standard does
not include contiguous parcels or lots that are under the same ownership on which a principal structure is
constructed.
Subd. 5. Shipping Containers. No more than one shipping container, intermodal shipping container or freight
container may be stored in a side or rear yard in all Zoning Districts, provided that any such side yard storage may
not be adjacent to a street and all setbacks must be met. The container may be located on the property for a period
not to exceed six (6) months per year, and is only permitted as storage while remodeling or other similar activities
relating to the property are active.
153.400.100 SIGNS
Subd. 1. Summary and Intent. The sign standards within this Section are established to allow for the appropriate
types, scale and size of signs based on the Character Area and Zoning District where the sign is located.
Subd. 2. Applicability. The regulations contained herein do not apply to signs painted, attached by adhesive or
otherwise attached directly to or visible through windows and glass portions of doors.
(A) No Permit is required for the following signs:
I. Signs, except those specifically defined within this Section, up to ten (10) square feet in area.
II. Noncommercial Signs, will be regulated consistent with Minnesota Statutes 211B.045 or successor
statutes, for time and duration. During years without a general state election signs must comply with
the standards stated within this Section.
III. Signs placed on parcels that are currently offered for sale providing such signs are not closer than 10
feet to any property line and shall not exceed ten (10) square feet in area. One sign shall be permitted
for each street frontage.
IV. Signs erected on parcels that are currently under construction for single-family or multiple-family
residences that are intended to promote the construction, sale or leasing of the project. The plat of
the development must be recorded with the Washington County Recorder prior to the erection of a
sign. Signs are subject to the following standards.
a. Such signs may not exceed one hundred (100) square feet in area.
b. Only one (1) sign is permitted per each road frontage with a maximum of three (3) signs per
project.
c. Such signs shall be removed when the project is eighty percent (80%) completed, sold or
leased.
d. Such sign must be located on the property which is for sale. Off-site development project
signs are prohibited.
e. One sign for each street entrance to a parcel currently under construction is permitted. The
maximum sign area is thirty-two (32) square feet per surface and no sign may have more than
two surfaces. The sign must not exceed eight (8) feet in height.
f. If the work authorized under a sign permit has not been completed within six (6) months
after the date of issuance, the permit will become null and void.
(B) Permit Required. Except as otherwise provided in this UDC, no sign shall be erected, constructed, altered,
rebuilt or relocated until an Administrative Permit or Conditional Use Permit as may be required for the
sign has been issued. Application for the applicable permit shall be accompanied by the established fee.
City of Scandia, MN
CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC)
SECTION 153.600 MASTER GLOSSARY
Adopted 09.20.2022, Amended 12.17.2024 (Ord No. 2024-09)
153.600
page-20
usability as a drinking water source through causes not attributable to natural processes; add an
unnatural surface film on the water; adversely change other chemical, biological, thermal or physical
conditions in any surface water; degrade the quality of groundwater; or harm human life, aquatic life,
or terrestrial plants and wildlife.
182. Principal Structure or Use: All uses or structures that are not accessory uses or structure.
183. Private Recreational Area: A recreation use particularly oriented to utilizing the outdoor character of
an area including hiking and riding trails, interpretative areas and other passive forms of recreation and
not open to the general public.
184. Protective or Restrictive Covenant: A contract entered into between private a party that constitutes
a restriction of the use of a particular parcel of property.
185. Public Land: Land owned and/or operated by a governmental unit, including school districts.
186. Public Recreation Facility: An outdoor recreation facility owned or operated by a governmental or
non-profit organization in which athletic activities are permitted to be played by the general public.
Examples of such a facility would be a softball complex, soccer fields, etc.
187. Public Waters: Any water as defined in Minnesota Statutes, Section 103.G.005 (15.)
188. Recreation Equipment: Personal property (non-vehicular) used primarily for recreation and leisure
time activities and purposes, including sports equipment, picnic tables, barbecue grills, bird feeders,
patio furniture, and the like.
189. Recreation Facilities: Accessory structures and/or uses that are customary and incidental to the
principal use of the site, including swing sets, play structures, sand boxes, skate board ramps, tennis
courts, sport courts, swimming pools and their related aprons, and the like, intended for the
enjoyment and convenience of the residents of the principal use and their occasional guests.
190. Recreation, Indoor Commercial: A privately-owned business directed toward the general public that
offers recreational entertainment within buildings, such as bowling alleys, billiard halls, and roller
skating, operated with the intention of earning a profit.
191. Recreation, Outdoor Commercial: A privately-owned business directed toward the general public
that offers non-motorized recreational activities in outdoor areas, such as waterslides, golf, miniature
golf, driving ranges, and skiing and operated with the intention of earning a profit. Campgrounds or
overnight camping shall not be considered a Recreation, Outdoor Commercial use.
192. Recreation Vehicle, Camping: Any travel trailers, chassis-mounted campers, motor homes, tent
trailers, slide-in campers, and any vehicle or structure which meets the following qualifications:
Any vehicular, portable structure mounted on wheels to be towed by a self-propelled vehicle,
and designed to be used as temporary living quarters for travel, vacation uses or for recreational
uses. Such structures include travel trailers, pop-up (including folding and retractable) campers,
ice-fishing houses, and the like.
Any vehicular, portable structure designed to be mounted on a truck upon a self-propelled
vehicle for use as temporary living quarters for travel, recreation, or vacation uses. Such
structures include, but are not limited to, pick-up campers.
Any vehicular, portable structure mounted on wheels, designed to be used as temporary living
quarters for travel, recreation, or vacation uses, and which is constructed as an integral part of a
self-propelled vehicle. Such vehicles include motorhomes, mini-motorhomes, buses converted
into campers, and the like.
193. Recreation Vehicle, Large (LRV): Recreational vehicles that are operable and licensed (if required)
including but not limited to: : travel trailers, chassis-mounted campers, motor homes, tent trailers,
slide-in campers, airplanes, converted buses, snowmobiles and trailers, boats/watercraft and trailers,
ice fish houses and trailers, all-terrain vehicles, and utility trailers.
Attachment C. Redline Draft Section 153.600.030 Definitions of
Use, Standards and Term
City of Scandia, MN
CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC)
SECTION 153.600 MASTER GLOSSARY
Adopted 09.20.2022, Amended 12.17.2024 (Ord No. 2024-09)
153.600
page-20
usability as a drinking water source through causes not attributable to natural processes; add an
unnatural surface film on the water; adversely change other chemical, biological, thermal or physical
conditions in any surface water; degrade the quality of groundwater; or harm human life, aquatic life,
or terrestrial plants and wildlife.
182. Principal Structure or Use: All uses or structures that are not accessory uses or structure.
183. Private Recreational Area: A recreation use particularly oriented to utilizing the outdoor character of
an area including hiking and riding trails, interpretative areas and other passive forms of recreation and
not open to the general public.
184. Protective or Restrictive Covenant: A contract entered into between private a party that constitutes
a restriction of the use of a particular parcel of property.
185. Public Land: Land owned and/or operated by a governmental unit, including school districts.
186. Public Recreation Facility: An outdoor recreation facility owned or operated by a governmental or
non-profit organization in which athletic activities are permitted to be played by the general public.
Examples of such a facility would be a softball complex, soccer fields, etc.
187. Public Waters: Any water as defined in Minnesota Statutes, Section 103.G.005 (15.)
188. Recreation Equipment: Personal property (non-vehicular) used primarily for recreation and leisure
time activities and purposes, including sports equipment, picnic tables, barbecue grills, bird feeders,
patio furniture, and the like.
189. Recreation Facilities: Accessory structures and/or uses that are customary and incidental to the
principal use of the site, including swing sets, play structures, sand boxes, skate board ramps, tennis
courts, sport courts, swimming pools and their related aprons, and the like, intended for the
enjoyment and convenience of the residents of the principal use and their occasional guests.
190. Recreation, Indoor Commercial: A privately-owned business directed toward the general public that
offers recreational entertainment within buildings, such as bowling alleys, billiard halls, and roller
skating, operated with the intention of earning a profit.
191. Recreation, Outdoor Commercial: A privately-owned business directed toward the general public
that offers non-motorized recreational activities in outdoor areas, such as waterslides, golf, miniature
golf, driving ranges, and skiing and operated with the intention of earning a profit. Campgrounds or
overnight camping shall not be considered a Recreation, Outdoor Commercial use.
192. Recreation Vehicle, Camping: Any travel trailers, chassis-mounted campers, motor homes, tent
trailers, slide-in campers, and any vehicle or structure which meets the following qualifications:
Any vehicular, portable structure mounted on wheels to be towed by a self-propelled vehicle,
and designed to be used as temporary living quarters for travel, vacation uses or for recreational
uses. Such structures include travel trailers, pop-up (including folding and retractable) campers,
ice-fishing houses, and the like.
Any vehicular, portable structure designed to be mounted on a truck upon a self-propelled
vehicle for use as temporary living quarters for travel, recreation, or vacation uses. Such
structures include, but are not limited to, pick-up campers.
Any vehicular, portable structure mounted on wheels, designed to be used as temporary living
quarters for travel, recreation, or vacation uses, and which is constructed as an integral part of a
self-propelled vehicle. Such vehicles include motorhomes, mini-motorhomes, buses converted
into campers, and the like.
193. Recreation Vehicle, Large (LRV): Recreational vehicles that are operable and licensed (if required)
including but not limited to: airplanes, converted buses, snowmobiles and trailers, boats/watercraft
and trailers, ice fish houses and trailers, all-terrain vehicles, and utility trailers.
Attachment D. Clean Draft Section 153.600.030 Definitions of Use,
Standards and Term
Staff Report
Date of Meeting: April 2, 2025
For: Honorable Mayor and Council
From: Kyle Morell, City Administrator
Subject: Exterior Storage in Rural Residential -Neighborhood Zoning District
Background:
It has been brought to my attention that the ordinances in place, which guide exterior store
requirements throughout the City, are not in line with what residents of the Rural Residential -
Neighborhood (RRH) zoning district believe is appropriate for their location. The City’s RRH
districts can be found along lake property throughout the City. The attached zoning maps those
RRH districts in yellow. This area includes the Bliss neighborhood, 182 nd St N, Norell Ave. N.
196th St N., and Tii Gavo around Big Marine Lake, Orwell Ave N. around Hay and Sand Lakes,
and Melanie Trail N. and Lofton Ct. N. around Bone Lake. As well as lots along Kirby Ave N,
west of Manning Trail, and 239th St N, west of Lofton Ave N.
Exterior Storage is addressed in the City’s Code of Ordinances (City Code) and the City’s
Unified Development Code (UDC). The City Code addresses exterior storage in Chapter 91
Nuisances. The UDC addresses exterior storage in Chapter 153.400.090, Exterior Storage. Both
chapter links are on the City’s website in Codes and Ordinances under the Government menu at
the top of the page.
For this discussion, the City will focus on exterior storage related to the parking and storage of
vehicles, including, but not limited to, cars, recreational vehicles (RVs), campers, icehouses,
boats, jet skis, and snowmobiles. The current regulations regarding the exterior storage of
vehicles can be found in the attached letter, which was sent to residents at the end of February.
To summarize the code language outlined in the attached letter, no property may have more than
four vehicles and no more than two campers, boats/watercraft, trailers, snowmobiles, or trailers.
The City has received complaints from some residents that this limit is unrealistic for properties
located on or with access to a lake, particularly those in RRN areas. After discussing this
conflict with Deputy Booth and Mayor Kronmiller, we determined it would be best to allow the
public to address the Council to propose possible changes to the City Code and UDC that would
increase storage limits within the RRN district.
I have received a couple of calls from residents who received the letter, asking whether their
house is in compliance, which they were. I also received one letter from a resident with
suggested changes, which is attached. This will function much like a public hearing, only no
action will be taken to adopt changes. If the Council believes changes should be made to the
City Code or UDC based on resident input, ordinance changes will be drafted for future
consideration.
Attachments:
Exterior Storage Letter sent to all residents within the Rural Residential – Neighborhood Zoning
District.
Resident letter with suggested changes.
14727 209 th St. N., Scandia, Minnesota 55073
Phone (651) 433-2274 Fax (651) 433-5112 http://www.cityofscandia.com
February 28, 2025
Residents,
The City of Scandia has been asked to begin stricter enforcement of its exterior storage rules on properties
around recreational and natural environmental lakes within the City. These bodies of water include Big
Marine Lake, Bone Lake, Sand Lake, Hay Lake, and Lake Keewahtin. These properties are generally zoned
Rural Residential – Neighborhood and generally include lakefront lots.
Exterior Storage is addressed in the City’s Code of Ordinances (City Code) and the City’s Unified
Development Code (UDC). The City Code addresses exterior storage in Chapter 91 Nuisances. The UDC
addresses exterior storage in Chapter 153.400.090 Exterior Storage. Both chapter links are on the City’s
website in Codes and Ordinances under the Government menu at the top of the page.
For this discussion, the City will focus on exterior storage related to the parking and storage of vehicles,
including, but not limited to, cars, RVs, campers, ice houses, boats, jet skis, and snowmobiles. The current
regulations related to the exterior storage of vehicles are outlined below.
91.05 NUISANCE PARKING.
A) Declaration of a nuisance. Outside parking on residentially zoned property of a substantial
number of vehicles in violation of the requirements set forth below is declared a public nuisance.
B) Prohibition. A person must not cause, undertake, permit, or allow the outside parking and
storage of vehicles on residential property unless it complies with the following requirements:
1) No more than four vehicles per lawful dwelling unit may be parked or stored
anywhere outside on residential property, except as otherwise permitted or required by the city. The
maximum number does not include vehicles of guests who do not reside on the property.
2) Vehicles that are parked or stored outside in the front yard areas must be on a paved
or graveled parking surface or driveway.
Ord. 21-03, passed 11-16-2021)
91.06 NUISANCE INOPERABLE MOTOR VEHICLES.
A) Declaration of nuisance. Any motor vehicle described in this section shall constitute a hazard to
the health and welfare of the residents of the community as such vehicles can harbor noxious diseases,
furnish a shelter and breeding ground for vermin, and present physical danger to the safety and well-being of
14727 209 th St. N., Scandia, Minnesota 55073
Phone (651) 433-2274 Fax (651) 433-5112 http://www.cityofscandia.com
children and citizens. Motor vehicles also contain various fluids which, if released into the environment, can
and do cause significant health risks to the community.
B) Prohibition. It shall be unlawful to keep, park, store, abandon or permit keeping, parking,
storing, or abandoning any motor vehicle that is not in operating condition, partially dismantled, or which is
not properly licensed for operation within the state. This section shall apply to public lands, streets or alleys,
and private lands.
C) Exception. This section does not apply to a motor vehicle enclosed in a building or kept out
of view from any street, road, sidewalk, or alley.
Ord. 21-03, passed 11-16-2021)
153.400.090 EXTERIOR STORAGE
Subd.1. Summary and Intent. The City is divided into different Character Areas and Zoning Districts each
with different dimensional standards and requirements that have a direct impact on the use of property
including exterior storage. The purpose of this section is to establish regulations for exterior storage that are
correlated to the Character Area and/or Zoning District.
Subd. 2. Exterior Storage and Off-Street Parking for Residential and Agricultural Uses. Exterior
storage shall be regulated by the following standards.
Residential and Agricultural Uses. All materials, machinery, vehicles, and equipment must be stored
within a building or fully screened so that it is not visible from adjoining properties and public streets,
except for the following:
Construction, landscaping and agricultural materials and equipment currently (within a period of 6
months) being used on the premises.
Off-street parking of licensed passenger automobiles and pick-up trucks; and the parking of such
other motor vehicles as may be permitted by Section [153.400.080].
Recreation Equipment (non-vehicular) and Recreation Facilities may be stored outside.
Storage of not more than 2 Large Recreational Vehicles (LRV) or Recreation Camping Vehicles
RCV) as permitted in this Section.
Recreation Camping Vehicles, while parked or stored, may not be used as a human dwelling place,
living abode or living quarters, except that such a vehicle owned by a non-resident guest or visitor
may be parked or occupied by said guest or visitor on property on which a permanent dwelling is
located, for a period not to exceed 30 days per year while visiting the resident of said property. The
recreation camping vehicle or trailer must have compliant self-contained sanitary facilities.
Non-Residential and Non-Agricultural Uses. Exterior storage of useable personal property accessory to
an allowed commercial, industrial or other non-residential or non-agricultural use may be allowed by
Conditional Use Permit. All such exterior storage in commercial/industrial areas must be screened as
provided by Section [153.400.060], with the following exceptions:
Merchandise being displayed for sale;
Materials and equipment currently being used for construction on the premises; and
Merchandise located on service station pump islands.
Storage of Large Recreational Vehicles (LRV) or Recreation Camping Vehicles (RCV). Storage of large
recreational vehicle or recreation camping vehicles is permitted on residential and agricultural parcels as
follows:
Lakeshore parcels.
14727 209 th St. N., Scandia, Minnesota 55073
Phone (651) 433-2274 Fax (651) 433-5112 http://www.cityofscandia.com
a. Boats, boat docks, and boat lifts may be stored outside on the lake side of lakeshore parcels
between September 15 and May 30, and are not included in the total number of LRV or RCV
permitted on those parcels in items B and C below.
Parcels one-half acre (0.5 acre) or less in area.
a. One LRV or RCV may be stored outside on the parcel.
b. The vehicle must be stored entirely on the owner’s property and must be located at least five
5) feet from the side lot lines, and at least ten (10) feet from the rear lot line.
c. If the physical conditions on the parcel (including but not limited to steep slopes, locations of
wetlands, location of the principal structure) prevent the location of the LRV or RCV within
the side or rear yard, the property owner may obtain an administrative permit authorizing the
location of the vehicle in the front yard.
Parcels larger than one-half acre (0.5 acres) in area:
a. Up to two LRVs or RCVs may be stored on the parcel.
b. The vehicles must be stored entirely on the owner’s property and must be located at least five
5) feet from the side lot lines, and at least ten (10) feet from the rear lot line.
c. Storage any vehicle in the front yard must be located at least two hundred (200) feet from the
road right-of-way.
In addition to the requirements above, the exterior storage of large recreational vehicles is
permitted, provided that:
a. Corner lots. In the case of a corner lot, LRV or RCV may be stored on the side of an attached or
detached garage adjacent to the public road right-of-way, but must be located at least twenty
20) feet from the public right-of-way and must be screened from view by a fence, existing
vegetation, or plantings that are a minimum six (6) feet in height.
b. Drainage and utility easements. LRV or RCV may not be parked within a drainage or utility
easement.
c. Parking of licensed LRV and RCV is prohibited on all public roadways except while being
loaded or unloaded for a period not to exceed twenty-four (24) hours.
Off-Street Parking for Residential and Agricultural Uses. Off street parking facilities accessory to
residential and agricultural uses must be utilized solely for the parking of passenger automobiles
and trucks with a maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) 12,000 pounds or less, and no
more than 30 feet in length. No more than 4 such vehicles per lawful dwelling unit may be parked
or stored outside of a building on parcels of 10 acres or less except visitors and guests by
permission of the property resident. More than 4 vehicles may be permitted with an Interim Use
Permit.
a. Larger trucks, contracting or excavating equipment and storage trailers may not be parked,
stored or otherwise located on any lot, with the following exceptions:
Trucks, tractors and other vehicles and equipment directly associated with an agricultural
use of the property; or
When loading, unloading, rendering service or being used in conjunction with a temporary
service including, but not limited to, a construction or remodeling project benefiting the
premises.
Licensed vehicles parked or stored outside on residential or agricultural property shall be
parked as follows:
14727 209 th St. N., Scandia, Minnesota 55073
Phone (651) 433-2274 Fax (651) 433-5112 http://www.cityofscandia.com
Vehicles must be parked on a paved driveway or other impervious surface that is a
designated driveway or parking area. Visitors and guests may park on a boulevard or open
yard space with the permission of the owner of the property for up to 72 hours.
Vacant Lots. No personal property, vehicles, recreation equipment, large recreational
vehicles, recreational camping vehicles, lumber or materials (except during the process of
construction of a structure) may be kept or maintained on any lot or property on which a
permanent structure is not located. This standard does not include contiguous parcels or lots that
are under the same ownership on which a principal structure is constructed.
Shipping Containers. No more than one shipping container, intermodal shipping container or
freight container may be stored in a side or rear yard in all Zoning Districts, provided that any such
side yard storage may not be adjacent to a street and all setbacks must be met. The container may
be located on the property for a period not to exceed six (6) months per year, and is only permitted
as storage while remodeling or other similar activities relating to the property are active.
The City defines Large Recreational Vehicles (LRV) and Recreation Camping Vehicles (RCV) as
follows:
1. Recreation Vehicle, Camping: Any vehicle or structure which meets the following qualifications:
Any vehicular, portable structure mounted on wheels to be towed by a self-propelled vehicle,
and designed to be used as temporary living quarters for travel, vacation uses or for recreational
uses. Such structures include travel trailers, pop-up (including folding and retractable) campers,
ice-fishing houses, and the like.
Any vehicular, portable structure designed to be mounted on a truck upon a self-propelled
vehicle for use as temporary living quarters for travel, recreation, or vacation uses. Such
structures include, but are not limited to, pick-up campers.
Any vehicular, portable structure mounted on wheels, designed to be used as temporary living
quarters for travel, recreation, or vacation uses, and which is constructed as an integral part of a
self-propelled vehicle. Such vehicles include motorhomes, mini-motorhomes, buses converted
into campers, and the like.
2. Recreation Vehicle, Large (LRV): Recreational vehicles that are operable and licensed (if required)
including but not limited to: travel trailers, chassis-mounted campers, motor homes, tent trailers, slide-
in campers, airplanes, converted buses, snowmobiles and trailers, boats/watercraft and trailers, ice fish
houses and trailers, all-terrain vehicles, and utility trailers.
With the code language listed above, no property may have more than four vehicles and no more than two
campers, boats/watercraft, trailers, snowmobiles, or trailers. The City has heard from some residents that
this limit is unrealistic for properties that live on or have access to a lake. The City Council has set aside time
at its April 2, 2025, Work Session to listen to public input on the current language and any suggested changes.
Feel free to contact me at 651.433.2274 if you have any questions.
Sincerely,
Kyle H. Morell
City Administrator
Front yard definition, to be changed throughout – this needs to be changed/clarified
to read: For lake parcels, the front yard is property facing the lake. Lots that are NOT
lake parcels, should be described to the property between a permanent structure (such
as a garage) and the road. Back Yards would then be described the opposite of that
above.
Section 91.05 Nuisance Parking
B)(2) – Define front yard
Section 91.06 Nuisance Inoperable Motor Vehicles
C. – Add or nearby properties – Although not adjacent property, I have to look at
neighbors inoperable vehicles.
Exterior Storage Comments:
Section 153.400.090 – Exterior Storage
Subd.2(A) – “not visible from adjoining properties” I think this should be changed to
nearby properties”.
C I. – Storage of boats, boat docks and boat lifts – REMOVE “may be stored outside on
the lake side of lakeshore parcels”. Not sure if appropriate language should be the least
intrusive lot possible for homeowner and neighbors when possible?
C II. b – ADD a certain number of feet from the road right of way (say 10 plus feet) when
possible.
C III. b - ADD a certain number of feet from the road right of way (say 20 plus feet)
when possible.
C V. – No more than 1 trailer that is 30 feet in length should be allowed on properties
less than 2 acres and be included in LRV count.
RCV Definition
Remove fish houses (but only allow 1 per household) as they look more like a shed.
The fish house should be required to be in the back yard when possible.
LRV Definition
REMOVE or do not include: Again, do not include fish houses (but only allow 1 per
household), all-terrain vehicles/golf carts and small utility trailers (should define size of
utility trailer). You may want to add only of each item is permitted.
ADD storage of snowmobiles, boats, watercraft must be stored on a trailer.
Bring the total number of LRVs to 3 with the removal of the items listed above. If the
items listed above are not going to be removed, the total LRVs should be at least 4.
ADD parking of boats, trailers, etc. should be stored in “back yard” when possible and/or
at least 10 feet from the road right of way when possible.