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08.b1 UDC Amendment for Exterior Storage of Vehicles - CC Packet 1 | P a g e Date of Meeting: May 20, 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. The staff report to the Planning Commission from the May 6, 2025, meeting is attached and includes the background of the amendment as well as a summary of the ordinance as well as an analysis based on the standards in the Unified Development Code. ANALYSIS Planning Commission The Planning Commission heard the application at the May 6, 2025, meeting. The Planning Commission opened the public hearing and two comments were received. The first comment stated that they had concerns about the number of items allowed within the Rural Residential Neighborhood (RR-N) zoning district, however, there was a misunderstanding regarding their concern which was addressed and resolved. The second comment detailed concerns about the request for stricter enforcement, the expansion of allowances with exterior storage, the allowance of additional large recreational vehicles (LRV) on RR-N lots, and letters being sent regarding the amendment. Staff clarified the background and intent of the amendment, which is detailed in the attached report from the Planning Commission. Staff clarified that as the amendment does not involve a specific property, statute does not require that letters be sent to individual property owners. The Planning Commission then closed the public hearing. The Planning Commission discussed the ordinance amendment. Discussion included concerns regarding the number of vehicles allowed on RR-N lots and the balance of potential impacts to the lake versus meeting property owner needs and wants, the impact of vehicles acting as impervious surface when parked on pervious surfaces, screening requirements being shorter than the vehicles that require screening, and requiring vehicles to be licensed. A motion was made to table the item stating more time was needed to review and consider the amendment, but the motion was withdrawn after further discussion. Councilmember Libby noted the public input made at the April 2, 2025, work session and the consideration that the item had before coming to the Planning Commission. The Planning Commission moved to recommend approval of the ordinance amendment. The motion was approved with a vote of 5-0. The Planning Commission also recommended the exhibit be included in the UDC as part of the ordinance amendment. 2 | P a g e Staff Analysis Staff finds that the proposed plan is generally consistent with the Comprehensive Plan and UDC. Below are a summary of questions or issues that were discussed by the Council or identified by staff regarding the amendment. Public Roadway At the April 15, 2025, meeting, the Council discussed 153.400.090 Subd. 2 (B) I. c. and what is considered the “public roadway.” The Council discussed the difficulty of storing or parking vehicles outside of the right-of-way (ROW) or prescriptive easement due to the size of some lots. Staff have included a standard that allows parking and storage in the ROW within the driveway for parcels zoned RR-N. The UDC does not define “roadway,” but “roadway” is used in the definition of “Street Pavement,” which is defined as, “The wearing or exposed surface of the roadway used by vehicular traffic.” As written, staff would interpret “public roadways” to be the edge of the street surface. Gross Vehicle Weight Rating Conflicts Staff have added an exception to the kind of vehicles which 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 larger pickup trucks and RCV depending on interpretation of the code. Additional clarification has been added regarding the storage of trucks typically used as personal vehicles or smaller commercial vehicles by adding the term “pickup trucks.” The amended language establishes clearly that LRV and RCV can be parked and stored on residential and agricultural parcels. Small Recreation Vehicles The Council discussed potential issues around smaller recreational vehicles (such as golf carts, dirt bikes, and go carts). Staff have reviewed ordinances of surrounding communities and found that most communities do not include smaller recreational vehicles in a separate definition. Typically, these types of vehicles fall into either a “recreational vehicle” definition, or, are treated as a standard vehicle. “Motor vehicles” is defined by the UDC as, “Any self-propelled vehicle not operated exclusively on railroad tracks, and any vehicle propelled or drawn by a self-propelled vehicle, including but not limited to cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, campers, recreational vehicles, and trailers.” Staff believes that additional restrictions are not placed on these types of items as a small number of the items does not cause a nuisance as they are easily screened or stored in buildings. These items are defined as “motor vehicles” by the UDC and are subject to the storage standards established in 153.400.090 Subd. 2 (A). This means that golf carts, dirt bikes, go carts, and the like would count towards the four motor vehicles allowed to be parked outside. Any number of these types of vehicles could be stored on a lot provided they are inside of a structure or screened. 3 | P a g e Corner Lot Setbacks The drafted amendment requires a 20 ft. setback on corner lot side lot lines regardless of zoning district, riparian status, or lot size. The Council should discuss if this is the intent of the amendment or if language should be added to create an exception on the various types of lots that are included in the amendment. RR-N and Riparian Exhibits As part of preparing the ordinance amendment for the Planning Commission, staff created an exhibit to illustrate the standards for RR-N zoned lots and riparian lots. The Planning Commission recommended including the exhibit as part of the ordinance amendment. Staff have updated the exhibit and drafted a table to accompany the exhibit as is typical within the UDC. Table 153.400.090-1. Exterior Storage of Vehicle Standards Summary Standard Diagram Lot Categories RR-N Riparian < 0.5 acres > 0.5 acres Number of motor vehicles 4 4 4 4 Number of LRV (maximum) 5 Based on Parcel Size 1 2 Number of RCV (maximum) 1 Based on Parcel Size Vehicle setback (front, rear), except paved driveway (ft.) • Front lot line 10 ft. 10 ft. N/A N/A • Rear lot line 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. • Side lot line 5 ft. 5 ft. 5 ft. 5 ft. • Side lot line, corner lot 20 ft. 20 ft. 20 ft. 20 ft. Allowed within right-of-way, in driveway Allowed Not Allowed Not Allowed Not Allowed RCV and LRV allowed in: • Front Yard Allowed Not Allowed Not Allowed* Allowed • Side Yard Allowed Allowed Allowed Allowed • Rear Yard Allowed Allowed Allowed Allowed 4 | P a g e COUNCIL ACTION The City Council can do one of the following: 1. Approve, with or without conditions, of the attached resolution. 2. Deny, with findings, of the attached resolution. 3. Table the request for further review/study. RECOMMEDNATION The Planning Commission recommends approval of the attached Ordinance 2025-06 to amend exterior storage standards in the UDC. 5 | P a g e Staff recommends approval of the attached Resolution 05-20-25-01 and 05-20-25-02 which approve a finding of facts for Ordinance 2025-06 and provide for summary publication of Ordinance 2025-06, respectively. Motion to approve of the Ordinance 2025-06 to amend 153.400.090 and 153.600.030 of the Unified Development Code regarding standards for exterior storage and definitions of large recreation vehicle and camping recreation vehicle, as well as Resolution 05-20-25- 01, approving findings of facts, and Resolution 05-20-25-02, providing for summary publication, as described within the staff report. Attachments A. Ordinance 2025-06 Amending the UDC Regarding Exterior Storage, Large Recreation Vehicles, and Camping Recreation Vehicles B. Resolution 05-20-25-01 Approving Findings of Facts for Ordinance 2025-06 C. Resolution 05-20-25-02 Approving Summary Publication for Ordinance 2025-06 D. Redline Ordinance 2025-06 E. Zoning Map F. Planning Commission “UDC Amendment for Exterior Storage of Vehicles” packet, dated May 6, 2025 Page 1 of 8 CITY OF SCANDIA ORDNANCE NO.: 2025-06 AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE SCANDIA UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE 153.400.090 AND 153.600.030 (A) REGARDING EXTERIOR STORAGE AND DEFINTIONS FOR CAMPING RECREATION VEHICLE AND LARGE RECREATION VEHICLE The City Council of the City of Scandia, Washington County, Minnesota hereby ordains: Section 1 Amendment. The City of Scandia Unified Development Code (“Development Code”, or “Code”), Chapter 153.400.090 Exterior Storage, shall be amended by adding the underlined text and deleting the stricken text as follows: 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, dumpsters, 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 Page 2 of 8 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) Merchandise located on service station pump islands. (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 on parcels zoned RR-N are allowed the following: a. Number of Vehicles. i. Up to one RCV may be stored on a property. ii. Up to five LRV may be stored on a property. b. Location i. RCV and LRV may be parked or stored within a designated driveway within the right-of-way, but may not extend past the edge of the street pavement. ii. Boats, boat docks, and boat lifts may be stored outside in the front, side, and rear yard. Page 3 of 8 iii. All 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 front and rear lot line, except on driveways. iv. LRV or RCV may be stored on pervious or impervious surfaces. 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. 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. 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. 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 of any vehicle in the front yard must be located within the side or rear yardat least two hundred (200) feet from the road right-of-way. Table 153.400.090-1. Exterior Storage of Vehicle Standards Summary Standard Diagram Lot Categories RR-N Riparian < 0.5 acres > 0.5 acres Number of motor vehicles 4 4 4 4 Number of LRV (maximum) 5 Based on Parcel Size 1 2 Number of RCV (maximum) 1 Based on Parcel Size Vehicle setback (front, rear), except paved driveway (ft.) • Front lot line 10 ft. 10 ft. N/A N/A • Rear lot line 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. • Side lot line 5 ft. 5 ft. 5 ft. 5 ft. Page 4 of 8 Standard Diagram Lot Categories RR-N Riparian < 0.5 acres > 0.5 acres • Side lot line, corner lot 20 ft. 20 ft. 20 ft. 20 ft. Allowed within right-of-way, in driveway Allowed Not Allowed Not Allowed Not Allowed RCV and LRV allowed in: • Front Yard Allowed Not Allowed Not Allowed* Allowed • Side Yard Allowed Allowed Allowed Allowed • Rear Yard Allowed Allowed Allowed Allowed Page 5 of 8 (C) In addition to the requirements above, the exterior storage of large recreational vehicles is permitted, provided that: (D) 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. (E) Drainage and utility easements. LRV or RCV may not be parked within a drainage or utility easement. (F) 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 four motor vehicles, or based on the number of licensed drivers that reside on a property, whichever number is greater. II. Off street parking facilities accessory to residential and agricultural uses must be utilized solely for the parking of passenger automobiles, pickup trucks, and trucks with a maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) 12,000 pounds or less, and no more than 30 feet in length, vehicles defined as an RCV, and LRV. 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. IV. Larger trucks, contracting or excavating equipment, and storage trailers, aside from those allowed in 153.400.010 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.; 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 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. 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. Page 6 of 8 c. Vehicles shall not be stored in the right-of-way. 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. 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. Section 2 Amendment. The City of Scandia Unified Development Code (“Development Code”, or “Code”), Chapter 153.600.030 Definitions of Use, Standards and Terms (A), shall be amended by adding the underlined text and deleting the stricken text as follows: 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. Page 7 of 8 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. Section 3 Planning Commission. The Planning Commission discussed the proposed ordinance at their May 6, 2025, meeting and held a public hearing on the amendment at a public hearing at their May 6, 2025, meeting. Two comments were made at the public hearing. The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of the ordinance. Page 8 of 8 Section 4 Effective Date. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect upon its adoption. Passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Scandia this 20th day of May 2025. Steve Kronmiller, Mayor ATTEST: Kyle Morell, City Administrator CITY OF SCANDIA, MINNESOTA RESOLUTION NO. 05-20-25-01 APPROVING FINDINGS OF FACT FOR ORDINANCE 2025-06 A ZONING TEXT AMENDMENT WHEREAS, 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; and, WHEREAS, the City Council finds that unregulated exterior storage has a potential to generate nuisances; and WHEREAS, city staff sent a letter to properties within the Rural Residential Neighborhood zoning district regarding exterior storage that detailed possible violations of the City Code; and WHEREAS, the City Council held a work session on April 2, 2025, where comments were received from members of the public regarding exterior storage needs on smaller lake lots and in the Rural Residential Neighborhood zoning district and the Council directed staff to prepare an amendment to the Unified Development Code to address the issues identified at the work session; and WHEREAS, the City Council reviewed a draft of the ordinance at their meeting on April 15, 2025, provided staff with comments, and recommended the amendment to the Planning Commission to be heard at a public hearing at the next available meeting; and WHEREAS, the Planning Commission reviewed a draft of Ordinance 2025-06, regarding exterior storage of vehicles and definitions for camping recreation vehicle and large recreation vehicle, held a public hearing on May 6, 2025, and recommended approval of the ordinance, as amended; and WHEREAS, the City Council reviewed Ordinance 2025-06, regarding exterior storage of vehicles and definitions for camping recreation vehicle and large recreation vehicle, on May 20, 2025; and WHEREAS, the City took public input on Ordinance 2025-06, regarding exterior storage of vehicles and definitions for camping recreation vehicle and large recreation vehicle, on May 6, 2025 at a duly called public hearing; and WHEREAS, the City of Scandia has proposed to amend the Unified Development Code 153.400.090 Exterior Storage; and WHEREAS, the City of Scandia has proposed to amend the Unified Development Code 153.600.030 Definitions of Use, Standards and Terms; and WHEREAS, the City Council has adopted Ordinance 2025-06 amending the Unified Development Code; NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF SCANDIA, WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA, that it should and hereby does support the request for an amendment to the Unified Development Code. Whereupon, said Resolution is hereby declared adopted on this 20th day of May 2025. Steve Kronmiller, Mayor ATTEST: Kyle Morell, City Administrator CITY OF SCANDIA RESOLUTION NO. 05-20-25-02 A RESOLUTION OF THE CITY OF SCANDIA, WASHINGTON COUNTY, MINNESOTA, PROVIDING FOR THE SUMMARY PUBLICATION OF ORDINANCE NO. 2025-06, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE SCANDIA UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE 153.400.090 AND 153.600.030 (A) REGARDING EXTERIOR STORAGE AND DEFINITIONS FOR CAMPING RECREATION VEHICLE AND LARGE RECREATION VEHICLE WHEREAS, On May 20, 2025, at a meeting of the Scandia City Council, by majority vote, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2025-06 which amends the Scandia Unified Development Code regarding exterior storage of vehicles and definitions for camping recreation vehicle and large recreation vehicle; and WHEREAS, State law requires that all ordinances adopted be published prior to becoming effective; and WHEREAS, the City Council for the City of Scandia has determined that publication of the title and a summary of Ordinance No. 2025-06 would clearly inform the public of the intent and effect of the Ordinance; and WHEREAS, the City Council for the City of Scandia has reviewed the summary of Ordinance No. 2025-06 attached and incorporated herein as Exhibit A; and WHEREAS, the City Council for the City of Scandia has determined that the text of the summary clearly informs the public of the intent and effect of Ordinance No. 2025-06. NOW THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED, the City Council for the City of Scandia hereby: 1. Approves the text of the summary of Ordinance No. 2025-06 attached as Exhibit A. 2. Directs the City Clerk to post a copy of the entire text of Ordinance No. 2025-06 in all public locations designated by the City Council. 3. Directs the City Clerk to publish the summary in the City’s legal newspaper within ten days. 4. Directs the City Clerk to file the executed Ordinance upon the books and records of the City along with proof of publication. Whereupon, said Resolution is hereby declared adopted on this 20th day of May 2025. Steve Kronmiller, Mayor ATTEST: Kyle Morell, City Administrator Exhibit A Ordinance Summary SUMMARY PUBLICATION OF ORDINANCE NO. 2025-06, AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE SCANDIA UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE 153.400.090 AND 153.600.030 (A) REGARDING EXTERIOR STORAGE AND DEFINITIONS FOR CAMPING RECREATION VEHICLE AND LARGE RECREATION VEHICLE On May 20, 2025, at a meeting of the Scandia City Council, by majority vote, the City Council adopted Ordinance No. 2025-06 which amends the Scandia Unified Development Code provisions regarding exterior storage of vehicles and definitions for camping recreation vehicle and large recreation vehicle by: • Establishing standards for exterior storage of vehicles standards within the Rural Residential Neighborhood zoning district. • Amending standards for exterior storage of vehicles on riparian lots. • Amending standards for exterior storage of vehicles on all other parcels. • Expanding the standards for what types of vehicles may be parked on lots used for residential and agricultural uses. • Moving travel trailers, chassis-mounted campers, motor homes, tent trailers, and slide-in campers from the definition of Large Recreational Vehicle to Camping Recreation Vehicle A printed copy of the Ordinance is available for inspection by any person during regular office hours at City Hall or by standard or electronic mail. Page 1 of 8 Removed Text: Red Strikethrough New Text: Red Underline Moved Text: Green Strikethrough and Green Underline CITY OF SCANDIA ORDNANCE NO.: 2025-XX AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE SCANDIA UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE 153.400.090 AND 153.600.030 (A) REGARDING EXTERIOR STORAGE AND DEFINTIONS FOR CAMPING RECREATION VEHICLE AND LARGE RECREATION VEHICLE The City Council of the City of Scandia, Washington County, Minnesota hereby ordains: Section 1 Amendment. The City of Scandia Unified Development Code (“Development Code”, or “Code”), Chapter 153.400.090 Exterior Storage, shall be amended by adding the underlined text and deleting the stricken text as follows: 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, dumpsters, 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 Page 2 of 8 Removed Text: Red Strikethrough New Text: Red Underline Moved Text: Green Strikethrough and Green Underline 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) Merchandise located on service station pump islands. (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 on parcels zoned RR-N are allowed the following: a. Number of Vehicles. i. Up to one RCV may be stored on a property. ii. Up to five LRV may be stored on a property. b. Location i. RCV and LRV may be parked or stored within a designated driveway within the right-of-way, but may not extend past the edge of the street pavement. ii. Boats, boat docks, and boat lifts may be stored outside in the front, side, and rear yard. Page 3 of 8 Removed Text: Red Strikethrough New Text: Red Underline Moved Text: Green Strikethrough and Green Underline iii. All 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 front and rear lot line, except on driveways. iv. LRV or RCV may be stored on pervious or impervious surfaces. 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. 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. 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. 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 of any vehicle in the front yard must be located within the side or rear yardat least two hundred (200) feet from the road right-of-way. Table 153.400.090-1. Exterior Storage of Vehicle Standards Summary Standard Diagram Lot Categories RR-N Riparian < 0.5 acres > 0.5 acres Number of motor vehicles 4 4 4 4 Number of LRV (maximum) 5 Based on Parcel Size 1 2 Number of RCV (maximum) 1 Based on Parcel Size Vehicle setback (front, rear), except paved driveway (ft.) • Front lot line 10 ft. 10 ft. N/A N/A • Rear lot line 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. • Side lot line 5 ft. 5 ft. 5 ft. 5 ft. Page 4 of 8 Removed Text: Red Strikethrough New Text: Red Underline Moved Text: Green Strikethrough and Green Underline Standard Diagram Lot Categories RR-N Riparian < 0.5 acres > 0.5 acres • Side lot line, corner lot 20 ft. 20 ft. 20 ft. 20 ft. Allowed within right-of-way, in driveway Allowed Not Allowed Not Allowed Not Allowed RCV and LRV allowed in: • Front Yard Allowed Not Allowed Not Allowed* Allowed • Side Yard Allowed Allowed Allowed Allowed • Rear Yard Allowed Allowed Allowed Allowed Page 5 of 8 Removed Text: Red Strikethrough New Text: Red Underline Moved Text: Green Strikethrough and Green Underline (C) In addition to the requirements above, the exterior storage of large recreational vehicles is permitted, provided that: (D) 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. (E) Drainage and utility easements. LRV or RCV may not be parked within a drainage or utility easement. (F) 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 four motor vehicles, or based on the number of licensed drivers that reside on a property, whichever number is greater. II. Off street parking facilities accessory to residential and agricultural uses must be utilized solely for the parking of passenger automobiles, pickup trucks, and trucks with a maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) 12,000 pounds or less, and no more than 30 feet in length, vehicles defined as an RCV, and LRV. 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. IV. Larger trucks, contracting or excavating equipment, and storage trailers, aside from those allowed in 153.400.010 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.; 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 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. 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. Page 6 of 8 Removed Text: Red Strikethrough New Text: Red Underline Moved Text: Green Strikethrough and Green Underline c. Vehicles shall not be stored in the right-of-way. 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. 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. Section 2 Amendment. The City of Scandia Unified Development Code (“Development Code”, or “Code”), Chapter 153.600.030 Definitions of Use, Standards and Terms (A), shall be amended by adding the underlined text and deleting the stricken text as follows: 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. Page 7 of 8 Removed Text: Red Strikethrough New Text: Red Underline Moved Text: Green Strikethrough and Green Underline 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. Section 3 Planning Commission. The Planning Commission discussed the proposed ordinance at their May 6, 2025, meeting and held a public hearing on the amendment at a public hearing at their May 6, 2025, meeting. No comments were made at the public hearing. The Planning Commission voted to recommend approval of the ordinance. Page 8 of 8 Removed Text: Red Strikethrough New Text: Red Underline Moved Text: Green Strikethrough and Green Underline Section 4 Effective Date. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect upon its adoption. Passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Scandia this 20th day of May 2025. Steve Kronmiller, Mayor ATTEST: Kyle Morell, City Administrator 1 | P a g e Date of Meeting: May 6, 2025 To: Chair Loeffler and Members of the Planning Commission 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. The City Council reviewed the draft language at the April 15, 2025, meeting. The Council discussed the ordinance and directed staff to make revisions to the proposed amendments and recommended it to the Planning Commission for a public hearing. SUMMARY OF ORDINANCE AMENDMENT Text shown as red and struckthrough has been removed (removed), text shown as red and underlined has been added (added), text shown as green and struckthrough or underlined has been moved (moved from, moved to). 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. 2 | P a g e (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, dumpsters, 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: (C) Merchandise being displayed for sale; (D) Materials and equipment currently being used for construction on the premises; and (E) 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. Notably, larger vehicles, like semi-trucks and large commercial vehicles, that are restricted later in the standards are not prohibited from being stored outside on a property provided they are screened. (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: 3 | P a g e 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. 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. The Council discussed c. and what is determined to be “public roadway.” The Council discussed the difficulty of storing or parking vehicles outside of the right-of-way (ROW) or prescriptive easement due to the size of some lots. Additionally, the Council discussed where parking and storage should be allowed in relation to the ROW, prescriptive easement, or edge of street. The UDC does not define “roadway,” but “roadway” is used in the definition of “Street Pavement”, which is defined as, “The wearing or exposed surface of the roadway used by vehicular traffic.” As written, staff would interpret “public roadways” to be the edge of the street surface. The Planning Commission should discuss required setbacks for parking and storage on lots, specifically as they apply to smaller lots such as in the Bliss Addition. II. RR-N zoned district. Exterior storage and off-street parking on parcels zoned RR-N are allowed the following: a. Number of Vehicles. i. Up to one RCV may be stored on a property. ii. Up to five LRV may be stored on a property. b. Location i. RCV and LRV may be parked or stored within a designated driveway within the right-of-way, but may not extend past the edge of the street pavement. ii. Boats, boat docks, and boat lifts may be stored outside in the front, side, and rear yard. iii. All 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 front and rear lot line, except on driveways. iv. 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 4 | P a g e 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. 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. 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. 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. 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 of any vehicle in the front yard must be located within the side or rear yardat 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 rear yards of properties larger than 0.5 acres, instead of regulating placement based on distance from right-of-way. The standard in V.a. that allows two LRVs or RCVs has been added to the general standards earlier in the section. (C) In addition to the requirements above, the exterior storage of large recreational vehicles is permitted, provided that: (D) 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. 5 | P a g e (E) Drainage and utility easements. LRV or RCV may not be parked within a drainage or utility easement. (F) 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. (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 four motor vehicles, or based on the number of licensed drivers that reside on a property, whichever number is greater. II. Off street parking facilities accessory to residential and agricultural uses must be utilized solely for the parking of passenger automobiles, pickup trucks, 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 an RCV, and LRV. 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 allows 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 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. In addition to this, additional clarification has been added regarding the storage of trucks generally used as personal vehicles or smaller commercial vehicles by adding the term “pickup trucks.” IV. Larger trucks, contracting or excavating equipment, and storage trailers, aside from those allowed in 153.400.010 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.; 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. V. Licensed vehicles parked or stored outside on residential or agricultural property shall be parked as follows: 6 | P a g e 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. c. Vehicles shall not be stored in the right-of-way. 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. 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. 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 7 | P a g e 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. The Council discussed potential issues around smaller recreational vehicles (such as golf carts, dirt bikes, and go carts). Staff have reviewed ordinances of surrounding communities and found that most communities do not include smaller recreational vehicles in a separate definition. Generally, these fall into either a “recreational vehicle” definition, or, are treated as a sta ndard vehicle. “Motor vehicles” is defined by the UDC as, “Any self-propelled vehicle not operated exclusively on railroad tracks, and any vehicle propelled or drawn by a self -propelled vehicle, including but not limited to cars, trucks, buses, motorcycles, campers, recreational vehicles, and trailers.” Staff believes that additional restrictions are not placed on these types of items as a small number of the items does not cause a nuisance as they are easily screened or stored in buildings. These items are defined as “motor vehicles” by the UDC and are subject to the storage standards established in 153.400.090 Subd. 2 (A) and would count towards the four motor vehicles allowed to be parked outside. Any number of these types of vehicles could be stored on a lot provided they are inside of a structure or screened. ANALYSIS Staff Analysis Staff believe that the drafted standards will address the concerns discussed by the Council and provide greater clarity regarding the standards. The standards for what is allowed in which circumstances may still be difficult to understand in some situations, specifically within the RR- N district. Staff have prepared an exhibit that may be helpful in visualizing the standards. This exhibit could be included within the ordinance amendment if desired. 8 | P a g e 9 | P a g e COMMISSION ACTION The Planning Commission can do one of the following: 1. Recommend approval, with or without conditions, of the attached ordinance and resolutions. 2. Recommend denial, with findings, of the attached ordinance and resolutions. 3. Table the request for further review/study. RECOMMEDNATION Staff recommends that the Planning Commission open a public hearing and receive any and all comments from the public. Staff recommends that the Planning Commission recommend approval of the ordinance, with any amendments that the Planning Commission believes are necessary or appropriate: Motion to recommend the City Council approval of the attached ordinance to amend 153.400.090 and 153.600.030 of the Unified Development Code to amend standards for exterior storage and definitions of large recreation vehicles and camping recreation vehicles, with the findings and conditions described within the staff report. Attachments A. Draft Ordinance 2025-XX Amending the UDC Regarding Exterior Storage, Large Recreation Vehicles, and Camping Recreation Vehicles B. Zoning Map C. City Council " UDC Amendment for Exterior Storage of Vehicles” Packet, April 15, 2025 (link only) Page 1 of 6 Removed Text: Red Strikethrough New Text: Red Underline Moved Text: Green Strikethrough and Green Underline CITY OF SCANDIA ORDNANCE NO.: 2025-XX AN ORDINANCE AMENDING THE SCANDIA UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE 153.400.090 AND 153.600.030 (A) REGARDING EXTERIOR STORAGE AND DEFINTIONS FOR CAMPING RECREATION VEHICLE AND LARGE RECREATION VEHICLE The City Council of the City of Scandia, Washington County, Minnesota hereby ordains: Section 1 Amendment. The City of Scandia Unified Development Code (“Development Code”, or “Code”), Chapter 153.400.090 Exterior Storage, shall be amended by adding the underlined text and deleting the stricken text as follows: 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, dumpsters, 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 Page 2 of 6 Removed Text: Red Strikethrough New Text: Red Underline Moved Text: Green Strikethrough and Green Underline 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) Merchandise located on service station pump islands. (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 on parcels zoned RR-N are allowed the following: a. Number of Vehicles. i. Up to one RCV may be stored on a property. ii. Up to five LRV may be stored on a property. b. Location i. RCV and LRV may be parked or stored within a designated driveway within the right-of-way, but may not extend past the edge of the street pavement. ii. Boats, boat docks, and boat lifts may be stored outside in the front, side, and rear yard. Page 3 of 6 Removed Text: Red Strikethrough New Text: Red Underline Moved Text: Green Strikethrough and Green Underline iii. All 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 front and rear lot line, except on driveways. iv. LRV or RCV may be stored on pervious or impervious surfaces. 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. 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. 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. 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 of any vehicle in the front yard must be located within the side or rear yardat least two hundred (200) feet from the road right-of-way. (C) In addition to the requirements above, the exterior storage of large recreational vehicles is permitted, provided that: (D) 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. (E) Drainage and utility easements. LRV or RCV may not be parked within a drainage or utility easement. (F) 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. Page 4 of 6 Removed Text: Red Strikethrough New Text: Red Underline Moved Text: Green Strikethrough and Green Underline 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 four motor vehicles, or based on the number of licensed drivers that reside on a property, whichever number is greater. II. Off street parking facilities accessory to residential and agricultural uses must be utilized solely for the parking of passenger automobiles, pickup trucks, and trucks with a maximum gross vehicle weight rating (GVWR) 12,000 pounds or less, and no more than 30 feet in length, vehicles defined as an RCV, and LRV. 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. IV. Larger trucks, contracting or excavating equipment, and storage trailers, aside from those allowed in 153.400.010 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.; 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 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. 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. c. Vehicles shall not be stored in the right-of-way. 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. 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 Page 5 of 6 Removed Text: Red Strikethrough New Text: Red Underline Moved Text: Green Strikethrough and Green Underline 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. Section 2 Amendment. The City of Scandia Unified Development Code (“Development Code”, or “Code”), Chapter 153.600.030 Definitions of Use, Standards and Terms (A), shall be amended by adding the underlined text and deleting the stricken text as follows: 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. Section 3 Planning Commission. The Planning Commission discussed the proposed ordinance at their May 5, 2025, meeting and held a public hearing on the amendment at a public hearing at their May 5, 2025, meeting. _______________ spoke at the public hearing. The Planning Commission voted to recommend ________ of the ordinance. Page 6 of 6 Removed Text: Red Strikethrough New Text: Red Underline Moved Text: Green Strikethrough and Green Underline Section 4 Effective Date. This ordinance shall be in full force and effect upon its adoption. Passed and adopted by the City Council of the City of Scandia this 20th day of May 2025. Steve Kronmiller, Mayor ATTEST: Kyle Morell, City Administrator