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06.a Accessory Structure Height Memo 1 | P a g e Date of Meeting: May 5, 2026 To: Chair Loeffler and Members of the Planning Commission From: T.J. Hofer, Consultant City Planner Greenlee Dahle, Consultant City Planner Re: Accessory Structure Height Limitation Discussion The Planning Commission requested that staff draft a memo regarding the limitations currently placed on the height of accessory structures in the city. Currently, accessory structures are limited to a height of 35 ft. and cannot be taller than the principal structure. There are two exceptions to this in the UDC. In the V-HC and V-C zoning districts, accessory structures are limited to 35 ft. but may not appear taller than the principal structure when viewed from the right-of-way. Additionally, sheds under 120 sq. ft. located in front of a principal structure are limited to an eight feet maximum. Exceptions are established in the ordinance that allow church spires, chimneys, flag poles up to 45 feet, silos, and wind generators to exceed the height limitations. Previous discussion indicated a desire to consider language that would allow an accessory structure to exceed the height of a principal structure. Staff have prepared a number of questions and talking points for the Planning Commission to consider. DISCUSSION Staff have prepared the following questions and discussion points for the Planning Commission to consider. The Planning Commission should consider the currently adopted ordinances in its discussion (sq. ft. limits, building material requirements, setbacks, etc.) Any comments made should not be considered binding, but are advisory to staff.  Are there specific uses that could be incorporated into the existing exemption for height limitations in the code that would address the concern?  Staff believe that, if implemented, the allowance to exceed the height of a principal structure should require a permit and include standards or conditions. What permitting process would the Planning Commission prefer? o Staff are likely to recommend a conditional use permit instead of an administrative permit to allow for public input and Planning Commission and City Council review.  Standards and conditions should be established if the allowance is adopted in the ordinance. The Planning Commission should discuss: 2 | P a g e o Location:  Behind the principal structure?  Required setback on a lot? Front? Side? Rear? Increased setbacks?  Allowed in all zoning districts?  Allowed within the Shoreland Overlay? o Use:  Any limitations on the use of a taller structure?  Principal use must be:  Residential?  Commercial?  Industrial?  Agricultural? o Size:  Limited square footage for structure?  Exception to height relative to principal structure or unlimited up to maximum height? o Materials:  Any specific material requirements for taller structures beyond the current standards?  Should character area standards apply? o Lighting:  Any restrictions on exterior lighting beyond the current standards? COMMISSION ACTION The Planning Commission may ask staff to assemble a draft ordinance to be reviewed at a future meeting. A motion or majority vote are not required to request staff to continue to work on the amendment. A motion is required to recommend an amendment to the City Council. The Planning Commission may recommend an amendment to the City Council for its consideration. If the City Council directs staff to begin work on the amendment, the ordinance amendment is heard by the Planning Commission, and a public hearing will be held. RECOMMENDATION Staff recommend the Planning Commission discuss the various questions detailed in the staff report and provide further direction for staff. Staff strongly recommend establishing a permitting procedure with standards or conditions as the proposed allowance is irregular among municipalities. Standards or conditions provide necessary restrictions to maintain the essential character of the community. Attachments A. Sections from UDC 153.200 B. Section from UDC 153.400 City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-4 Subd. 2. Agricultural Zoning Districts. The Agricultural Zoning Districts are established to protect and preserve the long-term agricultural use of land in the City. Lands zoned with the Agricultural designation are intended to promote the right-to-farm as a principal use with permitted homestead, farmstead and accessory uses. (A) Purpose of Agricultural Preserves (A-P) Zoning District. Lands zoned Agricultural Preserves are parcels enrolled in the Metropolitan Agricultural Preserves according to Minnesota Statute 473H, as amended, and are to remain in long-term agricultural production according to the A-P contract terms. A-P District areas are guided Agricultural Core in the Comprehensive Plan. I. Agricultural Preserves Zoning District Dimensional Standards. The following table is a summary of the Agricultural Preserves District-specific dimensional standards for newly created lots or parcels with private well and septic systems. Table 153.200.030-2. Agricultural Preserves (A-P) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size Lot Dimensions (only for lots created after the effective date of this UDC) A Lot Size (minimum) Density (maximum) 40.0 Acres1 1 Dwelling Units per 40 Acres B Buildable Area (minimum) 1.0 Acres C Lot Frontage on All Roads (minimum) 300 Feet 1 Minimum density and lot size may be reduced if criteria established in Minnesota State Statute 473H is met. Figure 153.200.030-1. Agricultural Preserves (A-P) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-5 Table 153.200.030-3. Agricultural Preserves (A-P) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks Principal and Accessory Structure Setbacks (Minimum) D Front • Minor Arterial 150 Feet from centerline, or 75 Feet from ROW, whichever is greater • Major or Minor Collector 100 Feet from centerline, or 50 Feet from ROW, whichever is greater • Any other Public Street 40 Feet E Side 20 Feet F Rear 50 Feet Accessory Structure Standards for 40.0 Acre Lot1 G Location Behind Principal Structure Size 6,000 SF Residential Accessory Structure Number 2 Residential Accessory Structures No Limit on Agricultural Accessory Structures Coverage and Height Standards (Maximum) Impervious Surface Coverage 25% H Principal structure height 35 Feet I Accessory structure height 35 Feet, but not taller than Principal Structure Other Standards Principal & Accessory Uses See Section 153.300.020-2 Table of Uses Character & Development See Section 153.400 1Accessory Structure Standards identified based on Minimum Lot Size. Accessory Structure Standards can be found in Subd. 6 of this Section. Figure 153.200.030-2. Agricultural Preserves (A-P) Dimension Standards and Setbacks City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-6 (B) Purpose of Agricultural Core District (AG-C). Lands zoned Agricultural Core support, protect and preserve land for agricultural production. The parcels and lots generally contain principal homestead or farmstead uses with a mix of hobby farms, commercial production farms and other agricultural uses. The lands zoned AG-C are guided Agricultural Core in the Comprehensive Plan. I. Dimensional Standards. The following table is a summary of the Agricultural Core District-specific dimensional standards for newly created lots or parcels with private well and septic systems. Table 153.200.030-4. Agricultural Core (AG-C) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size Lot Dimensions (only for lots created after the effective date of this UDC) A Lot Size (minimum) Density (maximum) 2.0 to 5.0 acres, OR 20.0 acres or greater 4 Dwelling Units per 40 Acres B Buildable Area (minimum) 1.0 Acres C Lot Frontage by Lot Size (minimum) • 2.0 – 3.0 Acres 160 Feet • 3.0 – 4.0 Acres 240 Feet • 4.0 Acres or Greater 300 Feet • If on cul-de-sac 60 Feet at terminus Figure 153.200.030-3. Agricultural Core Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-7 Table 153.200.030-5. Agricultural Core (AG-C) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks Principal and Accessory Structure Setbacks (Minimum) D Front • Minor Arterial 150 Feet from centerline, or 75 Feet from ROW, whichever is greater • Major or Minor Collector 100 Feet from centerline, or 50 Feet from ROW, whichever is greater • Any other Public Street 40 Feet E Side 20 Feet F Rear 50 Feet Accessory Structure Standards based on 5.0 Acre Lot1 G Location Behind Principal Structure Size 1,000 SF Residential Accessory Structure Number 1 Residential Accessory Structure Coverage and Height Standards (Maximum) Impervious Surface Coverage 25% H Principal structure height 35 Feet I Accessory structure height 35 Feet, but not taller than Principal Structure Other Standards Principal & Accessory Uses See Section 153.300.020-2 Table of Uses Character & Development See Section 153.400 1Accessory Structure Standards identified based on Minimum Lot Size. Accessory Structure Standards can be found in Subd. 6 of this Section. Figure 153.200.030-4. Agricultural Core Dimensional Standards and Setbacks City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-8 Subd. 3. Rural Residential Districts. The Rural Residential Districts are predominantly single-family principal uses with accessory uses and structures that support the rural character of the City. There are two distinct development patterns in this category including historically platted riparian and non-riparian lots abutting or in proximity to the lakes, and general rural residential patterns with larger lot configurations. The lands zoned for rural residential uses are categorized by two designations and are intended to provide a direct correlation between dimensional standards, use, and development patterns of the area. (A) Purpose of Rural Residential General (RR-G). Lands zoned Rural Residential General (RR-G) are established to provide for principal residential use with estate or large-lot development patterns. The RR-G District includes lot or parcel configurations that are generally unplatted, including mostly non-riparian land. The RR- G District areas are guided General Rural in the Comprehensive Plan. I. Rural Residential General Dimensional Standards. The following table is a summary of the RR-G district-specific dimensional standards for newly created lots or parcels with private well and septic systems. Table 153.200.030-6. Rural Residential General (RR-G) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size Lot Dimensions (only for lots created after the effective date of this UDC) A Lot Size (minimum) Density (Maximum) 2.0 Acres 4 Dwelling Units per 40 Acres B Buildable Area (minimum) 1.0 Acres C Lot Frontage by Lot Size (minimum) • 2.0 – 3.0 Acres 160 Feet • 3.0 – 4.0 Acres 240 Feet • 4.0 Acres or Greater 300 Feet • Cul-de-sac (at terminus) 60 Feet Figure 153.200.030-5. Rural Residential – General (RR-G) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-9 Table 153.200.030-7. Rural Residential General (RR-G) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks Principal and Accessory Structure Setbacks (Minimum) D Front • Minor Arterial 150 Feet from centerline, or 75 Feet from ROW, whichever is greater • Major or Minor Collector 100 Feet from centerline, or 50 Feet from ROW, whichever is greater • Any other Public Street 40 Feet E Side 20 Feet F Rear 50 Feet Accessory Structure Standards1 G Location Behind Principal Structure Size 1,000 SF Residential Accessory Structure Number 1 Residential Accessory Structure Coverage and Height Standards (Maximum) Impervious Surface Coverage 25% H Principal structure height 35 Feet I Accessory structure height 35 Feet, but not taller than Principal Structure Other Standards Principal & Accessory Uses See Section 153.300.020-2 Table of Uses Character & Development See Section 153.400 1Accessory Structure Standards identified based on Minimum Lot Size. Accessory Structure Standards can be found in Subd. 6 of this Section. Figure 153.200.030-6. Rural Residential – General (RR-G) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-10 (B) Purpose of Rural Residential Neighborhood (RR-N) Zoning District. Lands zoned RR-N are the parcels adjoining, abutting, or a portion of which are within 1,000 feet of a lake with a public waters designation that were historically platted or divided into smaller lots for seasonal use. The use of these lots has generally transitioned to permanent year-round use with predominantly principal residential uses. Most parcels and lots in the RR-N District are at least 50% contained within the Shoreland Management Overlay (SM-O) District. In addition to the standards identified in this Section, the lots or parcels are subject to the regulations contained within Chapters 155 of the City Code and the Washington County St. Croix River District standards which are incorporated by reference herein. Land zoned RR-N are guided Agricultural Core and General Rural in the Comprehensive Plan. I. Rural Residential Neighborhood Zoning District Dimensional Standards. The following table is a summary of the RR-N District-specific dimensional standards for newly created lots or parcels with private well and septic systems. Table 153.200.030-8. Rural Residential Neighborhood (RR-N) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size Lot Dimensions (only for lots created after the effective date of this UDC) Lot Size Lots in SM-O for Recreational Development Lake Lots in SM-O for Natural Environment Lake Existing Lot of Record (minimum) 0.92 Acres 1.84 Acres A New Lot (minimum) 2.5 Acres 2.5 Acres Density (maximum, apply to any new division of property) 4 DU/ 40 Acres 4 DU/ 40 Acres B Buildable Area (minimum, New Lot) 1.0 Acres 1.0 Acres C Lot Width (minimum if Riparian, New Lot) 150 Feet 200 Feet D Structure Setback from OHWL (minimum, Riparian) 100 Feet 150 Feet E Lot Frontage by Lot Size (minimum) • Less than 2.0 Acres 100 Feet • 2.0 – 3.0 Acres 160 Feet • 3.0 – 4.0 Acres 240 Feet • 4.0 Acres or Greater 300 Feet • If cul-de-sac lot 60 Feet Figure 153.200.030-7. Rural Residential – Neighborhood (RR-N) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-11 Table 153.200.030-9. Rural Residential Neighborhood (RR-N) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks Principal and Accessory Structure Setbacks (Minimum) F Front • Minor Arterial 150 Feet from centerline, or 75 Feet from ROW, whichever is greater less • Major or Minor Collector 100 Feet from centerline, or 50 Feet from ROW, whichever is greater less • Any other Public Street 40 Feet G • Side 10 Feet H Rear Non-Riparian 50 Feet D Riparian See OHWL Setback in Table 9 Accessory Structure Standards1 Location Outside all setbacks, if in front of principal structure see Character Standards Size 1,000 SF Residential Accessory Structure Number 1 Residential Accessory Structure Coverage and Height Standards (Maximum) Impervious Surface Coverage 25% I Principal Structure Height 35 Feet J Accessory Structure Height 35 Feet, but not taller than Principal Structure Other Standards Principal & Accessory Uses See Section 153.300.020-2 Table of Uses Character & Development See Section 153.400 1Accessory Structure Standards identified based on Minimum Lot Size. Accessory Structure Standards can be found in Subd. 6 of this Section. Figure 153.200.030-8. Rural Residential Neighborhood (RR-N) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks (Example RR-N, SM-O) City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-12 Subd. 4. Village Districts. The historic Village area of the City has a more compact development pattern than other areas of the City and creates a distinct place to live, work, patronize and recreate in the community. The Purpose of the Village Zoning Districts is to match the character of this area through appropriate development, uses, massing and character standards. (A) Purpose of Village – Historic Core (V-HC) Zoning District. Land zoned Village – Historic Core (V-HC) has a distinct, compact development pattern with a mix of uses including commercial, office and residential uses. The intent of this District is to preserve and protect the long-term viability of the historic properties and structures and allow for a mix of supportive land uses that are consistent with the adopted Scandia Design Guidelines. Land zoned V-HC is guided Village Mixed Use in the Comprehensive Plan. I. Village – Historic Core Dimensional Standards. The following table is a summary of the V-HC District-specific dimensional standards for newly created lots or parcels that are served by public services including sewer and water. Table 153.200.030-10. Village – Historic Core (V-HC) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size Lot Dimensions and Density Standards A Lot Size (Existing Lot of Record) None A Density (Residential) FAR (Commercial) 1 Dwelling Unit per 2.5 Acres 0.5 B Buildable Area N/A for Lot with Public Sewer & Water C Lot Frontage (minimum) 30 Feet Figure 153.200.030-9. Village-Historic Core (V-HC) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-13 Table 153.200.030-11. Village – Historic Core (V-HC) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks Principal and Accessory Structure Setbacks (Minimum) Single Family (SF) Mixed Use or Non-Residential D Front 40 Feet 0 Feet Min., 10 Feet Max. E Side 10 Feet 2 Feet F Rear 20 Feet 10 Feet Accessory Structure Standards1 G Location Behind Principal Structure Size 720 SF Residential Accessory Structure Number 1 Residential Accessory Structure Coverage and Height Standards (Maximum) Impervious Surface Coverage 80% (Existing Lot) H Principal structure height 45 Feet I Accessory structure height 35 Feet, may not appear taller than Principal Structure from ROW Other Standards Principal & Accessory Uses See Section 153.300.020-2 Table of Uses Character & Development See Section 153.400 1Accessory Structure Standards identified based on Minimum Lot Size. Accessory Structure Standards can be found in Subd. 6 of this Section. Figure 153.200.030-10. Village-Historic Core (V-HC) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-14 (B) Purpose of Village Center (V-C) Zoning District. Land zoned Village Center is intended to include a mix of uses including commercial, office and residential uses that support the Village Historic Core. Land in this zoning district is served either by municipal services or private well and individual septic systems. V-C zoned land is guided Village Mixed Use in the Comprehensive Plan. I. Dimensional Standards. The following table is a summary of the V-C district-specific dimensional standards for newly created lots or parcels. As noted in the table, the dimensional standards are applied based on whether the lot or parcel has access to, and is connected to, municipal water and sewer. If private well and septic serves the subject property then the more restrictive requirements shall be applied. Table 153.200.030-12. Village Center (V-C) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size Lot Dimensions (Minimum, only for lots created after the effective date of this UDC) A Lot Size (New Lot – Public Sewer and Water) Lot Size (New Lot – Private Well and Septic) 8,500 Square Feet1 1.0 Acres B Density (Residential) Floor Area Ratio (Commercial) 1 Dwelling Unit per 2.5 Acres 0.5 C Buildable Area N/A for Lot with Public Sewer & Water 0.75 Acres for New Lot on Private Well and Septic D Minimum Lot Frontage 50 Feet Figure 153.200.030-11. Village Center (V-C) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-15 Table 153.200.030-13. Village Center (V-C) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks Principal and Accessory Structure Setbacks (Minimum) Single Family (SF) MU or Non-Residential E Front 40 Feet 0 Feet or Avg. of Adjacent Setback F Side 10 Feet 5 Feet G Rear 20 Feet 25 Feet Accessory Structure Standards1 H Location Behind Principal Structure Size 720 SF Residential Accessory Structure Number 1 Residential Accessory Structure Coverage and Height Standards (Maximum) Impervious Surface Coverage 65% Building Coverage 50% I Principal structure height (maximum) 45 Feet J Accessory structure height (maximum) 35 Feet, but may not appear taller than Principal Structure at ROW Other Standards Principal & Accessory Uses See Section 153.300.020-2 Table of Uses Character & Development See Section 153.400 1Accessory Structure Standards identified based on Minimum Lot Size. Accessory Structure Standards can be found in Subd. 6 of this Section. Figure 153.200.030-12. Village Center (V-C) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-16 (C) Purpose of Village Neighborhood (V-N) Zoning District. Land zoned Village Neighborhood is established to designate growth areas surrounding the Village Center and is generally intended to be developed with single-family residential uses. These lands are guided Village Neighborhood in the adopted Comprehensive Plan. I. Village Neighborhood Dimensional Standards. The following table is a summary of the V-N District- specific dimensional standards for newly created lots or parcels with private well and septic systems. Table 153.200.030-14. Village Neighborhood (V-N) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size Lot Dimensions (only for lots created after the effective date of this UDC) A Lot Size (minimum) Density (maximum) 1.5 Acres 1 Dwelling Units per 2.5 Acres B Buildable Area (minimum) 1.0 Acres C Lot Frontage (minimum) 100 Feet Figure 153.200.030-13. Village Neighborhood (V-N) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-17 Table 153.200.030-15. Village Neighborhood (V-N) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks Principal and Accessory Structure Setbacks (Minimum) D Front • Minor Arterial 150 Feet from centerline, or 75 Feet from ROW, whichever is greater • Major or Minor Collector 100 Feet from centerline, or 50 Feet from ROW, whichever is greater • Any other Public Street 40 Feet E Side 20 Feet F Rear 50 Feet Accessory Structure Standards1 G Location Behind Principal Structure Size 1,000 SF Residential Accessory Structure Number 1 Residential Accessory Structure Coverage and Height Standards (Maximum) Impervious Surface Coverage 35% H Principal structure height 35 Feet I Accessory structure height 35 Feet, but not taller than Principal Structure Other Standards Principal & Accessory Uses See Section 153.300.020-2 Table of Uses Character & Development See Section 153.400 1Accessory Structure Standards identified based on Minimum Lot Size. Accessory Structure Standards can be found in Subd. 6 of this Section. Figure 153.200.030-14. Village Neighborhood (V-N) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-18 Subd. 5. Business Districts. The City’s business districts are intended to support commercial, general business and light industrial uses in appropriately guided areas of the community. These districts are currently served by private well and individual septic systems. (A) Purpose of Industrial Park (I-P) Zoning District. Lands zoned I-P allow for light industrial businesses and are guided Village Mixed Use in the Comprehensive Plan. Industrial Park uses include a variety of light manufacturing, fabrication, assembly, warehouse, wholesaling, or storage businesses that are non-threatening to the environment. I. Industrial Park Dimensional Standards. The following table is a summary of the I-P District-specific dimensional standards for newly created lots or parcels with private well and septic systems. Table 153.200.030-16. Industrial Park (I-P) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size Lot Dimensions (only for lots created after the effective date of this UDC) A Lot Size (minimum, New Lot) 2.0 Acres B Buildable Area (minimum, New Lot) 1.0 Acres C Lot Frontage on Public Street (minimum) 160 Feet Figure 153.200.030-15. Industrial Park (I-P) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-19 Table 153.200.030-17. Industrial Park (I-P) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks Principal and Accessory Structure Setbacks (Minimum) D Front Minor Arterial 150 Feet from centerline, or 75 Feet from ROW, whichever is greater Major or Minor Collector 100 Feet from centerline, or 50 Feet from ROW, whichever is greater Any other Public Street 40 Feet E Side 10 Feet F Rear 50 Feet Accessory Structure Standards1 G Location Behind Principal Structure Size 1,000 SF Accessory Structure Number 1 Accessory Structure Coverage and Height Standards (Maximum) Impervious Surface Coverage 65% H Principal structure height 45 Feet I Accessory structure height 35 Feet, but not taller than Principal Structure Other Standards Principal & Accessory Uses See Section 153.300.020-2 Table of Uses Character & Development See Section 153.400 1Structure Standards can be found in Subd. 6 of this Section. The accessory structure must be used for storage related to the principal use of the property. No separate business is allowed in the accessory structure. Figure 153.200.030-16. Industrial Park (I-P) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-20 (B) Purpose of Rural Commercial (R-C) Zoning District. Lands zoned Rural Commercial are intended to support commercial development of rural areas in the community that have historically been used for some type of business use. R-C zoned land is guided Rural Commercial in the Comprehensive Plan. I. Rural Commercial Dimensional Standards. The following table is a summary of the R-C Zoning District-specific dimensional standards for newly created lots or parcels with private well and septic systems. Table 153.200.030-18. Rural Commercial (R-C) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size Lot Dimensions (only for lots created after the effective date of this UDC) A Lot Size (minimum, New Lot) 2.0 Acres B Buildable Area (minimum, New Lot) 1.0 Acres C Lot Frontage on Public Street (minimum) 160 Feet Figure 153.200.030-17. Rural Commercial (R-C) Dimensional Standards – Density and Lot Size City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-21 Table 153.200.030-19. Rural Commercial (R-C) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks Principal and Accessory Structure Setbacks (Minimum) D Front • Minor Arterial 150 Feet from centerline, or 75 Feet from ROW, whichever is greater • Major or Minor Collector 100 Feet from centerline, or 50 Feet from ROW, whichever is greater • Any other Public Street 40 Feet E Side 10 Feet F Rear 50 Feet Accessory Structure Standards1 G Location Behind Principal Structure Size 1,000 SF Accessory Structure Number 1 Accessory Structure Coverage and Height Standards (Maximum) Impervious Surface Coverage 65% H Principal structure height 45 Feet I Accessory structure height 35 Feet, but not taller than Principal Structure Other Standards Principal & Accessory Uses See Section 153.300.020-2 Table of Uses Character & Development See Section 153.400 1Accessory Structure Standards identified based on Minimum Lot Size. Accessory Structure Standards can be found in Subd. 6 of this Section. No more than one (1) accessory structure is permitted in the R-C District. The accessory structure must be used for storage related to the principal use of the property. No separate business is allowed in the accessory structure Figure 153.200.030-18. Rural Commercial (RR-C) Dimensional Standards and Setbacks City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-22 Subd. 6. Accessory Structure Dimensional Standards for all Base Zoning Districts. The City regulates its Accessory Structures by lot size and use type which is independent from the Base Zoning District. The following Dimensional and Size Standards are provided for Accessory Structures. (A) Accessory Structure Dimensional Standards Table. Table 153.200.030-20. Accessory Structure Dimensional and Size Standards Residential Accessory Structures (Non-agricultural) Agricultural Accessory Structures Lot Size Number of Structures Total Square Footage (SF) Number of Structures (Maximum) Total Square Footage (SF) Parcels less than 1.0 Acres 1 1,000 SF None None 1.0 to 2.99 Acres 1 1,500 SF None None 3.00 to 4.99 Acres 2 3,000 SF None None 5.00 to 9.99 Acres 3 4,000 SF 1 agricultural building (3 total) 4,000 SF including non- agricultural buildings 10.00 to 19.99 Acres 3 5,000 SF 2 agricultural buildings (4 total) 6,000 SF including non- agricultural buildings 20.00 to 29.99 Acres 3 6,500 SF No limit provided structures are agricultural buildings No limit provided structures are agricultural buildings 30.00 to 39.99 Acres 4 7,500 SF 40.00 to 59.99 Acres 4 8,500 SF 60.00 to 79.99 Acres 4 10,000 SF 80.00 Acres and larger 5 12,000 SF I. Exceptions. The following exceptions shall apply in any Base Zoning District: a. Residential Garage. A residential garage, either attached or detached, is an Accessory Structure per the standards established in this Section. One residential garage used for the storage of personal vehicles and personal property shall not be counted towards the number of structures or total square footage of Residential Accessory Structures up to the following limits: i. Properties 0 to 3.0 Acres. Up to 864 Square Feet shall not be counted towards the maximum standards established on Table [153.200.030-20]. If a garage exceeds 864 square feet, the additional square footage shall be counted towards the maximum standards established. ii. Properties greater than 3.0 Acres. Up to 1,200 square feet shall not be counted towards the maximum standards established on Table [153.200.030-20]. If a garage exceeds 1,200 Square Feet, the additional square footage shall be counted towards the maximum standards established. b. Sheds and small structures. Two single story sheds of up to 120 square feet are permitted in addition to the number accessory structures listed in this Section, and such square footage shall not count towards the total square footage. Ice fishing houses stored on parcels of land during non-winter months shall be deemed to be the permitted shed. i. One of the permitted sheds may be located within the front-yard setback for purposes of bus shelter, garbage/recycling enclosure or similar use. Such shed may not exceed 8- feet in height, and must be located outside the right-of-way. City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-23 c. Detached Accessory Structures in front of Principal Structure. All accessory structures must comply with the location standards established by the Base Zoning District, unless the following conditions are met: i. The accessory structure is located on a lot of five (5) acres or more and is placed at least 200 feet from the road right-of-way; or ii. The accessory structure is located on a parcel that is less than five (5) acres in size, is necessary to meet the Exterior Storage requirements of this UDC, and the physical conditions on the parcel (including but not limited to steep slopes, locations of wetlands, location of principal structure) prevent the location of the storage structure within the side or rear yard; and iii. If such conditions are met, the property owner must submit a plan for the proposed structure and obtain an administrative permit authorizing the location of the structure in front of the principal structure. The Zoning Administrator may require screening if needed to protect views from adjacent properties or public roadways. II. Residential Accessory Structure Flexibility with CUP. Flexibility from the standards established in Table 153.200.030-20 may be permitted with a Conditional Use Permit (CUP). Provided all other standards and regulations of the Base Zoning District are met, the City shall consider a bonus up to the following limits: a. One additional Structure. b. No more than an additional 25% of total square footage. III. Accessory Structure on Non-Contiguous Parcel. A Residential Accessory Structure may be permitted on a non-contiguous parcel from the principal structure only when such lack of contiguity is due to the presence of a dedicated public right-of-way. In such cases the following conditions shall apply: a. The Parcels must be under common ownership. b. A restrictive covenant must be recorded on the deed identifying that the parcels may not be sold independently from each other without the removal of the Accessory Structure. c. The Lot Area used to determine the permitted number of structures and total square footage as identified in Table [153.200.020-20] must exclude the dedicated right-of-way. d. The design of the Accessory Structure shall be subject to the standards established in Section [153.400.030]. IV. For calculating permitted accessory square footage on parcels within the Shoreland Management Overlay District areas, the area of the lot shall be calculated as the area of the lot outside the Ordinary High Water Level (OHWL). V. For purposes of determining allowable square footage and number of agricultural buildings on farms 40.00 acres or greater, the lot shall include all contiguous tax parcels farmed as a unit as evidenced by common ownership within a family or other entity comprised of some or all of the family members, or a combination thereof. VI. On any publicly owned parcel used for recreational or park purposes the permitted number and square footage of Accessory Structures shall be waived. Any Accessory Structure shall be required to obtain the required building permit and must comply with the dimensional standards as established by the Base Zoning District or any applicable Overlay District. (B) Accessory Structure Dimensional Standards for Domestic Farm Animals. I. Accessory structures used to shelter domestic farm animals, except as provided in Section [153.300.030] shall meet the following requirements. All domestic farm animal structures, feedlots and manure storage sites shall be setback as follows: City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.200 ZONING DISTRICTS 153.200 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 04.15.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-05) page-24 Table 153.200.030-21. Accessory Structure Dimensional Standards for Domestic Farm Animals Natural/Man-Made Features Horizontal Setbacks (Minimum) Any property line 100 Feet Any existing well or residential structure on the same parcel 50 Feet Any seasonal or year-round wetland, lake or stream 200 Feet II. Any structure, feedlot or manure storage shall not be placed on slopes which exceed 13%. 153.200.040 OVERLAY DISTRICTS Subd. 1. Applicability of Overlay Districts. Certain lands within the City have unique or special environmental qualities that are zoned with additional regulations and standards per the objectives of the specific Overlay District. All lands and parcels in the City are designated with a Base Zone District as described in Section [153.200.030], and those portions of the property also contained within an Overlay District shall be regulated by the applicable standards identified in the subsequent Section or Chapter. The Overlay District areas are shown on the Official Zoning Map. (A) Aggregate Mining Overlay District (AM-O). The AM-O District is established to identify the land and parcel areas where mineral deposits, primarily gravel, may be available for general use under the conditions and regulations of Chapter 154 of the City Code. Properties zoned AM-O are guided as Aggregate Resources in the Comprehensive Plan. I. Lot Area, setbacks, and other dimensional requirements of the AM-O District are contained in Chapter 154. (B) Shoreland Management Overlay District (SM-O). The SM-O District is established consistent with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources rules for Shoreland Management of designated public waters in the City. Properties zoned within the SM-O are guided for various land uses within the Comprehensive Plan. I. The Rural Residential Neighborhood (RR-N) Base Zoning District is established specifically to account for and manage, small lots and parcels within the SM-O area. Lot area and setback from OHWL is provided within the Dimensional Standards for this Base Zoning District. All other dimensional standards as described within Chapter 155 shall be applicable, and in the event of any discrepancy, the more restrictive regulation shall apply. II. All other Base Zoning Districts reference the SM-O District standards in Chapter 155 of the City’s Code of Ordinances, and standards stated within the SM-O shall apply. (C) Lower St. Croix River Corridor Overlay District (SCRD). The SCRD District is established consistent with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources rules for properties within the SCRD. The City adopts by reference the Washington County Lower St. Croix River Bluffland and Shoreland Management Ordinance, as amended from time to time. I. The Rural Residential Neighborhood (RR-N) Base Zoning District is established specifically to account for and manage small lots and parcels within the SCRD area. Lot area, lot width and setback from OHWL is provided within the Dimensional Standards for this District. All other requirements and regulations of the SCRD shall be followed for any property within this designation. In the event of any discrepancy, the more restrictive regulation shall apply. (D) Floodplain Management Overlay District (FM-O). The FM-O District is established consistent with the rules and guidelines as applied by FEMA. Properties within the FM-O shall follow all rules and regulations as contained within Chapter 156 of the Code of Ordinances. (E) Solar Energy Systems Overlay District (SES-O). The SES-O District is established to identify the land and parcel areas where Distribution SES may be available for general use under the conditions and regulations of Chapter 153.300.030 Subd. 1 (BB). City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.400 DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTER AND BUILDING STANDARDS 153.400 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 12.16.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-19) page-15 III. Finished Building Material for Principal Structures. Except for agricultural accessory buildings and buildings covered under Section 153.400.040 Character Area Standards and/or as otherwise approved by the City Council, exterior building finishes must consist of materials comparable in grade and quality to the following, unless otherwise provided by this Section: a. Brick b. Natural stone c. Decorative concrete block or professionally designed pre-cast concrete units if the surfaces have been integrally treated with an applied decorative material or texture, or decorative block and if incorporated in a building design that is compatible with other development throughout the district. d. Wood, vinyl, steel, cement fiberboard or aluminum lap siding provided the surfaces are finished for exterior use and proven to have exterior durability, such as cedar, redwood, and cypress. e. Stucco, cementitious coating. f. Architectural metal panels for roofing and accents only. (B) Residential Accessory Structures. I. Accessory buildings on parcels less than 20.0 acres in size must provide a minimum one-foot overhang on all sides of the building with finished soffits except when the building is accessory to a principal residential home constructed with no or minimal overhang in which case the overhang of the accessory building must match the overhang of the residential building. II. All accessory buildings on parcels of 4 acres or less, excluding road right-of-way, must resemble, in style, materials, color, roofline, and siding type, the principal building on the lot, except the following building types may vary from this standard: a. Accessory Buildings 120 sq. ft. or less in size (this exception is not applicable to the General Standards set forth in Section (A)1; b. Greenhouses; c. Gazebos and decorative shelters; d. Historic Buildings III. Any Residential Accessory Building located on a non-contiguous parcel owned by the same Owner, must meet the following standards: a. Must be designed to be consistent and compatible with the Principal Structure. Design must include a compatible architectural design, and the same or similar material and color palette as that of the Principal Structure. Subd. 4. Lighting . The City’s standards regarding exterior or outdoor lighting are established to regulate the character of the City consistent with the character and development patterns of the community. The following standards regarding outdoor and exterior lighting apply in all Zoning Districts: (A) Applicability. The standards in this section apply to Outdoor Lighting of any structure, lot or area. (B) Exemptions. The standards of this section do not apply to the following: I. The use of temporary outdoor lighting during customary holiday seasons provided that individual lamps are 10 watts or less. II. The use of temporary outdoor lighting used for civic celebrations and promotions. III. Lighting required and regulated by the Federal Aviation Administration or other federal or state agency. City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.400 DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTER AND BUILDING STANDARDS 153.400 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 12.16.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-19) page-17 d. Hours. The use of outdoor lighting for parking lots serving commercial and industrial businesses is restricted according to the following. Outdoor lighting that serves businesses that do not operate after dark shall be turned off 1 hour after closing except for approved security lighting. For those businesses that offer services after dark, outdoor lighting may be utilized during the nighttime hours provided the business is open for service. Once the business closes, the outdoor lighting shall be turned off 1 hour after closing except for security lighting. IV. Outdoor Recreation. Outdoor recreational uses such as, but not limited to baseball fields, football fields, tennis courts and snow skiing areas have special requirements for nighttime lighting. Due to these unique circumstances, a conditional use permit is required for all new outdoor lighting fixtures that do not meet the regulations stated above. a. No outdoor recreation facility whether public or private may be illuminated after 11:00 PM unless the lighting fixtures conform to 153.300.030 Subd. 4. (D) II153.300.030Subd. 4(D)IIII, above. b. Off street parking areas for outdoor recreation uses which are illuminated must meet the requirements stated in 153.300.030 Subd. 4. (D) II. (E) Prohibitions. The following outdoor light fixtures are prohibited within the City of Scandia: I. Search lights or sky trackers II. Flashing, blinking or rotating lights III. Neon lighting on the exterior of a building IV. Raceway lighting V. Exposed fluorescent tubes VI. Mercury vapor lamps VII. Laser lights VIII. Back lit canopies or awnings (F) Submission of Plans. The applicant for any permit requiring outdoor lighting must submit evidence the proposed outdoor lighting will comply with this UDC. The submission must contain the following in addition to other required data for the specific permit: I. Plans indicating the location on the premises, and the type of illuminating devices, fixtures, lamps, supports, reflectors and other devices. II. Description of illuminating devices, fixtures, lamps, supports, reflectors and other devices and the description may include, but is not limited to, catalog cuts by manufacturers and drawings (including sections where required); III. Photometric data, such as that furnished by manufacturers, or similar showing the angle of the cutoff or light emissions. 153.400.040 CHARACTER AREA STANDARDS Subd. 1. Purpose and Intent. The City’s Base Zoning Districts are categorized and organized by Character Area as defined in [Section 153.200.010]. The development patterns and forms throughout the City differ by Character Area. The standards contained within this Section are intended to support and reinforce the desired physical development patterns and forms in the City based on the described Character Area. (A) Applicability. The following Character Area Standards do not apply to single-family detached residences or the accessory structures that are used by the inhabitants of the principal structure , unless expressly stated in subsection (B). City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.400 DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTER AND BUILDING STANDARDS 153.400 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 12.16.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-19) page-18 (B) Architectural Design Standards. The City’s adopted Design Guidelines are standards which are generally suggested and encouraged. This Section is established to identify those standards and suggestions from the Design Guidelines that are required and are defined as the Architectural Design Standards. The following Architectural Design Standards are organized by Character Area. I. Character Area: Agricultural Districts (A-P and AG-C). This Character Area is defined by larger tracts of land that are used for active agricultural, small hobby farms, rural residential and associated accessory uses and activities. Single-family homes, accessory structures and farmsteads are typically setback from public rights-of-way and are buffered from adjacent properties and uses with vegetation and /or natural topography. The following standards are established for any non- residential use, conditional or interim use that proposes a new structure, expansion, or modification of an existing structure. The purpose of the following is to reinforce the character of this area as described herein: a. Architectural Design. Design of new structures must reference design elements of existing historic rural buildings if present onside including barns, farmhouses and schoolhouses. b. Windows and Doors. Window and door configurations and styles must be consistent with the architectural style of the structure. For example, a traditional farmhouse design would include double hung windows with true divided light, with various configurations. c. Landscaping and Vegetation. Existing vegetation should be maintained to the extent possible. If trees along the street or highway must be removed for new construction, they should be replaced with species consistent with Section [153.400.060 Subd. 2. I. Table 8] of this UDC. d. Fences shall meet the following standards: i. Fences within the structure setback that abuts public streets must be constructed of natural materials, such as wood or stone, composite materials if similar in appearance, wrought iron fences, vinyl-wrapped chain link, chain link with decorative slats, or decorative aluminum fencing. ii. Chain link or plastic fences, except as exempted above, that are visible from the right- of-way or public sidewalk are not permitted. iii. Fences used for agricultural purposes such as horse pastures, livestock, etc., are excepted from the above requirement. iv. Fences used as temporary snow control are excepted from the above requirement starting October 15th and ending April 30th. v. Fence standards are provided in Section [153.300.060 Subd. 4]. e. Design Guidelines: In addition to the standards listed herein, consideration of the City’s adopted Design Guidelines is required for any new use or development. II. Character Area: Rural Residential Districts (RR-G and RR-N). This Character Area is defined by rural residential uses including single-family detached structures, small hobby farms, open spaces and associated accessory uses and activities. Structures are typically setback from road rights-of-way and are sited with an attached garage facing the road frontage. Accessory buildings are set behind the principal structure’s primary façade on non-riparian lots and are often set in front of the primary façade on riparian lots. The following standards are established for any non-residential use, conditional or interim use that proposes a new structure, expansion, or modification of an existing structure. The purpose of the following is to reinforce the character of this area as described herein: a. Architectural Design of Principal Structures. Design of new structures must reference design elements of the existing rural buildings in Scandia including barns, farmhouses and schoolhouses. b. Architectural Design of Accessory Structures. Accessory Structures located in front of the principal structure’s primary façade, or if visible from the public right-of-way, must be designed to be City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.400 DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTER AND BUILDING STANDARDS 153.400 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 12.16.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-19) page-19 consistent and compatible with the Principal Structure. This standard shall apply to single- family detached residences if the Accessory Structure is visible from the public right-of-way. Design must include a compatible architectural design, and the same or similar material and color palette as that of the Principal Structure. Accessory Structures placed behind the Principal Structure’s primary façade which are not visible from the public right-of-way must be compatible with the Principal Structure but may vary in its color and material selection. c. Windows and Doors. Window and door configurations and styles must be consistent with the architectural style of the structure. For example, a traditional farmhouse design would include double hung windows with true divided light, with various configurations. d. Fences shall meet the following standards: i. Fences within the structure setback that abuts public streets must be constructed of natural materials, such as wood or stone, composite materials if similar in appearance, wrought iron fences, vinyl-wrapped chain link, chain link with decorative slats, or decorative aluminum fencing. ii. Chain link or plastic fences, except as exempted above, that are visible from the right- of-way or public sidewalk are not permitted. iii. Fences used for agricultural purposes such as horse pastures, livestock, etc., are excepted from the above requirement. iv. Fences used as temporary snow control are excepted from the above requirement starting October 15th and ending April 30th. v. Fence standards are provided in Section [153.300.060 Subd. 4]. e. Existing vegetation should be maintained to the extent possible. If trees along the street or highway must be removed for new construction, they should be replaced with native species consistent with Section [153.400.060 Subd. 2. I. Table 8] of this UDC. f. Design Guidelines: In addition to the standards listed herein, consideration of the City’s adopted Design Guidelines is required for any new use or development. III. Character Area: Village Districts (V-N, V-C, and V-HC). This Character Area is defined by a mix of new and historic residential and commercial uses. The historic core (V-HC) is pedestrian friendly, walkable with a mix of shopfronts, businesses and community gathering places. Surrounding the historic core are newer village commercial uses and neighborhoods (V-N and V-C) that reference the historic architectural and design character of the V-HC. The following standards are established for any non-residential use, conditional or interim use that proposes a new structure, expansion, or modification of an existing structure. The purpose of the following is to reinforce the character of this area as described herein: a. Architectural Design. The architectural design of the village core structures, including the V-HC and V-C Zoning Districts, is defined by the form and scale of the existing buildings. To reinforce this pattern, the following standards are required for any new structure, including single-family detached residences, within the V-C and V-HC districts: i. Structures should be 1 ½ to 2 stories with a maximum height as regulated by the Base Zoning District standards as defined in Section [153.200.030] ii. Facades designed for commercial uses with frontage on a public street must be designed with bays or articulation that may include changes in wall plane, color, materials or similar. The design must include a definable base, middle and top. iii. Facades in the V-HC must include a minimum of 60% glass transparency. Spandrel glass may be used, but may not comprise more the 15% of the minimum transparency requirement. City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.400 DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTER AND BUILDING STANDARDS 153.400 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 12.16.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-19) page-20 iv. Structures must be sited with the primary entrance on the first-floor with a direct connection to the public sidewalk. v. Off-street parking must be located behind (rear) the principal structure, or to the side, where feasible. Streetside parking is permitted and encouraged. vi. Rooflines must be compatible with adjacent buildings and structures. If non-storefront style buildings are proposed they must be designed with pitched roofs with a similar pitch as present on existing buildings within the V-C and V-HC Districts, b. Building Materials. Use of the following building materials is required for all commercial uses : i. The finished building materials as identified in [153.400.030 Subd. 3 (A) III] are permitted in the V-N. ii. The following finished building materials are permitted within the V-C and V-HC Districts: 1. Standard size clay brick 2. Fiber cement lap siding 3. Stained or painted wood lap siding 4. Flat-paneled log with dovetail corners 5. Wood board and batten siding 6. Natural or cast stone The City Council may approve alternative materials provided applicants prove alternative proposed materials meet or exceeds the standards for the intended uses and purposes of the building material. c. Windows and Doors. The following window and door standards are required for all commercial uses and structures in the V-C and V-HC, and are encouraged in the V-N Zoning Districts: i. Windows should be designed to have a wooden appearance or to conform with the City’s adopted Architectural Design Guidelines. ii. Window replacement on existing structures must be consistent with the original window configuration including materials to the best extent possible. iii. Commercial, mixed-use and retail structures must incorporate typical storefront window configurations. d. Garages, Parking Areas and Landscape Plan. i. All off-street parking and areas and garages should be sited outside of all required front-yard setbacks, to the extent possible. Exceptions may be granted by the City Council if warranted based on the lot configuration. ii. Multi-family structures, duplex, townhomes or condominiums with attached garages must be designed with garage entries from the side or rear to the extent feasible. Garages facing the public right-of-way must be architectural designed and must be setback behind the front plan of the principal structure. iii. Parking areas must be screened with fencing or vegetation that may include trees and shrubs to screen parking areas from residential uses, public right-of-way, sidewalks and other buildings. iv. Large parking lot areas must be broken up with planting islands that should include trees and shrubs, and may also incorporate raingardens, tree-trenches or other design elements that assist with stormwater management. City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.400 DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTER AND BUILDING STANDARDS 153.400 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 12.16.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-19) page-21 v. A landscape plan is required for all new development, redevelopment or subdivision in this Character Area and must comply with the standards identified in Section [153.400.060]. e. Fences shall meet the following standards: i. Fences within the structure setback that abuts public streets must be constructed of natural materials, such as wood or stone, composite materials if similar in appearance, wrought iron fences, vinyl-wrapped chain link, chain link with decorative slats, or decorative aluminum fencing. ii. Chain link or plastic fences, except as exempted above, that are visible from the right- of-way or public sidewalk are not permitted. iii. Fences used for agricultural purposes such as horse pastures, livestock, etc., are excepted from the above requirement. iv. Fences used as temporary snow control are excepted from the above requirement starting October 15th and ending April 30th. v. Fence standards are provided in Section [153.300.060 Subd. 4]. f. Signage i. All new or replacement signs are required to meet the sign standards identified in Section [153.400.100]. ii. Signs may be affixed to the building, and multi-tenant buildings may provide one sign per user with an approved unified sign plan. iii. New or replacement signs on commercial structures must be designed with clear lettering and minimalistic style. Permitted sign locations include: 1. On a canvas awning 2. Transom window, window glass or glass door 3. Projecting wall sign (at 90-degree hanging oriented to pedestrians) 4. Architectural stone detailing such as cornerstone detail or roof parapet iv. Lighting of Signs in V-C and V-HC: 1. Internally lit, and backlit signs are not permitted. 2. Mounted and directional lighting of signs is permitted 3. Neon signs are permitted within the storefront window, but may not be affixed to the exterior of a building. 4. Flashing, blinking, and rotating signs are not permitted. 5. LED digital signs are not permitted. g. Mechanical Equipment and Utility Areas. i. Mechanical equipment must be screened on all side. Mechanical equipment includes air conditioning units, heating units, transformers, and any equipment that provides service to a building. Rooftop mechanical equipment may not be visible from the public right-of-way or sidewalk. Screening of rooftop equipment must be compatible with the architectural design of the building. ii. Utility areas, including exterior trash and storage areas, service yards, and loading areas must be screened on all four sides. These areas must not be visible from streets, parking lots, sidewalks, or nearby buildings. City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.400 DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTER AND BUILDING STANDARDS 153.400 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 12.16.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-19) page-22 iii. Acceptable screening materials must be compatible with the principal or accessory buildings on site, and may include vegetation or berms. iv. If new sidewalks are installed, or renovations to existing sidewalks are made, planting islands should be created to include shade trees, grassy boulevards, flowers, and other public realm landscape elements. h. Design Guidelines. In addition to the standards listed herein, conformance with the City’s adopted Architectural Design Guidelines is required for any new use or development. IV. Character Area: Business Districts (R-C and I-P). This Character Area is defined by commercial and light industrial with green space buffer areas between rights-of-way and adjacent residential uses. Throughout the City, the rural commercial (R-C) nodes should echo the character of Scandia’s core. This character area is defined by businesses and parking areas but is intended to maintain the rural character of the City. a. Within the commercial nodes, including R-C and I-P Zoning Districts, buildings should be sited to meet the minimum setback requirements, where possible. Setback areas should be designed to allow for greenspace and landscaping along roadways. b. Structures that meet the definition of Agricultural Building will be subject to [153.400.040 (B) I] Character Area: Agricultural Districts (A-P and AG-C). c. Parking for commercial uses must be located to the side or rear of buildings, to the extent possible. d. Parking areas must be screened with vegetation including trees and shrubs to screen parking areas from residential uses, public right-of-way, sidewalks and other buildings. e. A landscape plan is required and must comply with the standards identified in Section [153.400.060]. f. Large parking lot areas must be broken up with planting islands that must include trees and shrubs, and may also incorporate raingardens, tree-trenches or other design elements that assist with stormwater management. g. Building Materials and Architectural Standards in the R-C Zoning District. Use of the following building materials is required for all commercial uses: i. Architectural Design. The architectural design of rural commercial structures, including the R-C Zoning District, should mimic the commercial and mixed-use structures found in the Village Districts. To reinforce this pattern, architectural design shall meet the standards in [153.400.040 Subd.1 III a. i.] and [153.400.040 Subd.1 III a. ii.]. ii. Building Materials. The finished building materials as identified in [153.400.030 Subd. 3 (A) III] are permitted in the R-C. To reinforce this pattern, finished building materials shall meet the standards identified [153.400.040 Subd.1 III b.]. iii. Windows and Doors. Window and door standards are required for all commercial uses and structures in the R-C. To reinforce this pattern, all windows and doors shall meet the standards identified [153.400.040 Subd.1 III c.]. h. Building Materials in the I-P Zoning District. Unless adjacent to a historic structure or fronting an arterial or collector roadway, or if highly visible from an arterial or collector roadway, buildings may be constructed of decorative concrete block or professionally designed pre-cast concrete units if the surfaces have been integrally treated with an applied decorative material or texture, and if incorporated in a building design that is compatible with other development throughout the Zoning District. City of Scandia, MN CHAPTER 153: UNIFIED DEVELOPMENT CODE (UDC) SECTION 153.400 DEVELOPMENT, CHARACTER AND BUILDING STANDARDS 153.400 Adopted 09.20.2022, Last Amended 12.16.2025 (Ordinance No. 2025-19) page-23 i. Mechanical Equipment and Utility Areas. i. Mechanical equipment must be screened on all sides. Mechanical equipment includes air conditioning units, heating units, transformers, and any equipment that provides service to a building. ii. Rooftop mechanical equipment must not be visible from the public right-of-way or sidewalk. Screening of rooftop equipment must be compatible with the architectural design of the building. iii. Utility areas, including exterior trash and storage areas, service yards, and loading areas must be screened on all four sides. These areas must not be visible from streets, parking lots, sidewalks, or nearby buildings. iv. Acceptable screening materials must be compatible with the principal or accessory buildings on site and may include vegetation or berms. j. Existing vegetation should be maintained to the extent possible. If trees along the street or highway must be removed for new construction, they should be replaced with native species consistent with Section [153.400.060] of this UDC. k. If new sidewalks are installed, or renovations to existing sidewalks are made, planting islands should be created to include shade trees, grassy boulevards, flowers, and other public realm landscape elements. l. Design Guidelines: In addition to the standards listed herein, conformance with the City’s adopted Architectural Design Guidelines is required for any new use or development. (C) Design Review for Exceptions. A landowner may request an exception to any of the standards listed herein, which will be subject to the review, establishment of reasonable conditions and approval of the Planning Commission and City Council. The request will be processed through a Design Review and will not be considered a variance. The Design Review does not require a public hearing, and the Design Review may or may not accompany another formal land use application. (D) Design Review. An applicant or developer may request a Design Review of any proposed exception to the Standards established within this Section 153.400.040 Character Area Standards. The following process will apply: I. If requested, Design Review will occur concurrently with the application for any Building Permit, Variance, Conditional Use Permit, Administrative Permit, Site Plan Review, Planned Unit Development or other permit(s) as may be required by this Section. II. The Planning Commission will provide recommendations to the City Council on any project referred to it for Design Review. The Planning Commission may consult with staff, consultants or other experts or resources as appropriate to the application request. The City Council has final authority to grant an exception to the standards contained within this Section. 153.400.050 OPEN SPACE, PARK DEDICATION, STORMWATER AND DRAINAGE Subd. 1. Summary and Intent. The purpose of regulating open space, stormwater and drainage is to protect, enhance and support the natural resource systems in the community. The regulations and standards established within this section are intended to protect the health, safety and welfare of the community and its structures by regulating site development and use of property. Subd. 2. Land Alteration and Grading (A) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to establish regulatory requirements for land development and land disturbing activities and to minimize potential threats to public health, safety, public and private property and natural resources within the City from construction site erosion and sedimentation.