6. Staff Report-Industrial District Zoning
Staff Report
Date of Meeting: July 13, 2015
To: Economic Development Authority
From: Kristina Handt, Executive Director
Re: Industrial Park Zoning-Permitted Uses
Background:
Last year the EDA reviewed some zoning issues that may be a challenge for encouraging economic
development. One specific area was the limited number of permitted uses allowed in the Industrial Park
zoning district. Staff researched examples from other communities to get an idea of how Scandia stacks
up. The issue came up again recently when Am-Tech had to go through the Condition Use Permit process
just to expand their existing buildings within the allowed setbacks.
Issue:
What uses should be permitted (not require CUP, IUP, etc) in the Industrial District?
Proposal Details:
Scandia Industrial Park District restrictions
While the purpose of the Industrial Park District is to allow for light industrial businesses the only
permitted uses are essential services (utilities) and printing businesses. Recently, with the changes to the
Accessory Dwelling Unit ordinances, this use is now allowed with an Administrative permit in the
Industrial District. All others must go through the CUP process.
Included in your packet are examples from Forest Lake and Hugo because they are located closest to
Scandia. Other smaller, rural type communities of Lindstrom, Chisago City, Pine City and Columbus are
also provided.
Types of uses commonly permitted (to some degree) in these communities’ Industrial District are: light
manufacturing, warehousing and distribution, storage, nursery sales/greenhouses/landscaping services,
contractor operations and offices, print shops, recreation facilities/parks, municipal/semi-public facilities,
and wholesaling.
Options:
1) Recommend other uses be permitted in the Industrial District, consistent with surrounding
communities.
2) Do not recommend any changes to the ordinance.
Recommendation:
Option 1