Planning Commission Agenda 10-01-2013 (Workshop Meeting)Planning Commission Agenda: 10/01/13
1
Workshop: R-A Zoning Ordinance Standards and Native Landscaping Ordinance
Amendment
The Commission will find attached supporting data relative to two items the Commission has
recently considered for amendment.
1. Native Landscaping – During the previous winter, the Planning Commission was asked
to consider adoption of an ordinance allowing for native landscaping in all zoning
districts. The Commission tabled action on the proposed amendment to allow for
additional research on this type of landscaping, including site visits. At this time, staff
would like to return to the discussion regarding the feasibility of this ordinance and get
direction from the Commission on next steps.
The staff report and supporting data for the previous agenda item is included for reference.
Staff will also provide references to locations for viewing of these types of landscapes.
2. R-A (Single-Family) Residence District – The Commission indicated some desire to
revisit the R-A district requirements for the purpose of increasing the amenities and/or
base lot standards associated with the district for the purpose of continuing to support and
achieve Comprehensive Plan objectives for move-up housing in the community.
The applicable zoning ordinance regulations for R-A are included for reference. The
intention on this item is to gain insight from the Commission on which provisions the
Commission would like to amend and to what potential standard. With that information,
staff can prepare an analysis and report for an upcoming regular agenda. At that time,
Commission may consider calling for a hearing on an amendment.
Planning Commission Agenda 12/04/12
8. Public Hearing - Consideration of an amendment to Section 4.1-Landscaping and
screening to allow and regulate Native Landscapes. Applicant: City of Monticello
(Intern EE)
A. REFERENCE AND BACKGROUND
The Planning Commission is asked to consider an amendment to the zoning ordinance to
allow the use of native plantings as an alternative turf covering in all zoning districts.
With widespread increased interest in native prairie treatments, the proposed amendment
responds to this interest while at the same time finding a way to place parameters and
boundaries to ensure the preservation of the aesthetic quality of Monticello’s yards.
The benefits of adopting a set of native landscaping requirements are numerous. First,
native landscaping encourages water conservation and habitat enhancement. Native
prairie plantings also require less usage of fertilizers and pesticides, and would give
individual residents more choices for selecting landscape and lawn coverings.
The City has adopted a set of base landscaping standards for residential districts. These
standards would not on their own prohibit the flexibility to install native treatments as a
landscaping option. However, in addition to base landscaping standards, the City Code
also includes public nuisance provisions which would prohibit native lawn coverings.
The Public Nuisance ordinance restricts the height of grasses, for example. Currently, the
City’s public nuisance ordinance does not allow for plant growth in excess of six (6)
inches in height.
Staff recognizes that native planting areas must be managed in order to avoid nuisance
issues. In order for prairie grasses to be allowed, no noxious weeds are to be permitted,
setbacks will be required; there should be no overhang, encroachment onto sidewalks,
curb, or street areas; soil erosion must be controlled during the transition period of the
restoration; all natural areas must be marked with a sign indicating that a restoration is in
process. All natural areas must be mowed once annually between April 15 and June 1, to
a height no greater than eight inches. The City would not be responsible for damage to
landscaped areas resulting from public works improvements or snow removal activities. .
In addition to these basic regulations, staff would recommend an abbreviated registration
process, by which residents and/or businesses would register their property with the City
as a native planting area. Doing so would allow the City to track these locations in a
database, allowing staff to respond appropriately to questions about these properties from
neighbors or interested parties. Prior to registration approval, the landscape plans must
be submitted to the Community Development Department for review and approval
B. ALTERNATIVE ACTIONS:
Planning Commission Agenda 12/04/12
1.) Motion to adopt Resolution #2012-110 recommending approval of Ordinance #569,
a zoning ordinance amendment relating to the Landscaping and Screening to allow
and regulate Native Landscapes.
2.) Motion to deny adoption of Resolution #2012-110, recommending approval of
Ordinance #569.
3.) Motion to table action on the request, pending additional information as identified by
the Planning Commission and staff report.
C. STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Staff would suggest that an ordinance for prairie grass is due and supports an ordinance
which provides for native landscapes, while prohibiting lawns or weeds from being left to
‘go natural.’
Staff recognizes the value in planning for the needs of citizens and the environment,
while at the same time preserving the visual quality of the City. Staff believes that all
three can be accomplished with this ordinance: we can provide a way for citizens to
explore and enjoy the benefits of native landscapes, while knowing that it is a water-
smart transition. However, regulations will be enforced to ensure quality.
D. SUPPORTING DATA
A. Resolution 2012-110
B. Ordinance #569
C. Images
CITY OF MONTICELLO
WRIGHT COUNTY, MINNESOTA
RESOLUTION NO. 2012-110
Date: December 4th, 2012 Resolution No. 2012-110
Motion By: ________________ Seconded By: _______________
A RESOLUTION RECOMMENDING APPROVAL OF AMENDMENT MONTICELLO
ZONING ORDINANCE CHAPTER 4, SECTION 1 TO ALLOW NATIVE
LANDSCAPING IN ALL ZONING DISTRICTS.
WHEREAS, the City of Monticello has adopted a zoning ordinance providing for the regulation
of landscaping in all zoning districts; and
WHEREAS, the Monticello Zoning Ordinance, Chapter 4 Section 1 regulations requires
additional performance standards to ensure mitigation against erosion and sedimentation,
reducing stormwater runoff and the costs associated therewith, preserving and protecting the
water table and surface waters, restoring soils and land denuded as a result of construction or
grading; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission has conducted a public hearing on December 4th, 2012
to review the request and receive public comment on the proposed amendment; and
WHEREAS, the Planning Commission of the City of Monticello finds that the amendment
supports the zoning ordinance purpose statement for land use in Chapter 3 of the Comprehensive
Plan, specifically as related to:
1) the creation of suitable environments for various types of places to live
2) the creation of suitable environments for various types of mixed use development, where
business, office, retail, and residential uses are able to enjoy the benefits of the
amendment to the ordinance namely to create neighborhoods that allow residents to
maintain a connection to the natural environment and open spaces.
3) creation and maintenance of attractive, safe and functional neighborhoods which
incorporate the natural characteristics of the setting
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED, by the Planning Commission of the City of
Monticello, Minnesota:
The Planning Commission recommends that the City Council adopt the zoning ordinance
amendment revising permitted accessory uses in business districts in Ordinance No. 569.
ADOPTED this 4th day of December 2012, by the Planning Commission of the City of
Monticello, Minnesota.
MONTICELLO PLANNING COMMISSION
By: ________________________________
William Spartz, Chair
ATTEST:
___________________________________________
Angela Schumann, Community Development Director
ORDINANCE NO. 569
CITY OF MONTICELLO
WRIGHT COUNTY, MINNESOTA
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 10 OF THE MONTICELLO CITY CODE,
KNOWN AS THE ZONING ORDINANCE, BY AMENDING CHAPTER 4.1 –
LANDSCAPING AND SCREENING TO ALLOW AND REGULATE NATIVE PLANT
LANDSCAPES
THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF MONTICELLO HEREBY ORDAINS:
Section 1. Chapter 4.1 – Landscaping and Screening is hereby amended by adding a new
section 4.1(H)(7) titled as follows:
4.1(H)(7) Native Plant Landscapes
Section 2. Chapter 8.4 – Definitions is hereby amended by adding the following definitions:
GARDEN: A cultivated area dedicated to growing vegetables, fruits, flowers,
ornamental grasses, groundcovers, shrubs and similar plantings in a
well-defined location.
NATIVE PLANTS: Those grasses, sedges, forbs, trees and shrubs which are plant
species native to or naturalized to the state of Minnesota,
excluding prohibited exotic species as defined in Minnesota
Statutes, Chapter 84D. Native plants do not include weeds.
NATIVE PLANT LANDSCAPES: A designated area where native plants are being or
have been planted. Native plant landscapes do not
include gardens.
NATURAL AREA: An area that was purposely left to grow in a natural state and can
maintain itself in a stable condition with human intervention and
contains trees, shrubs, and native plants, excluding weeds and
turfgrass areas that contain more than 50% turfgrass.
ORNAMENTAL GRASSES: Grasses that are indigenous to the state of Minnesota
that are intended to add beauty to a garden.
Ornamental grasses do not include turfgrass or weeds.
TURFGRASS: Commercially available cultured turfgrass varieties, including
bluegrass, fescue and ryegrass blends, commonly used in regularly
cut lawn areas.
WEEDS: Noxious weeds as defined and designated pursuant to the “Minnesota
noxious weed law” in Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 18.75-18.91 (as
amended from time to time), or any volunteer plants such as, but not
limited to, garlic mustard, spotted knapweed, or burdock. Weeds do not
ORDINANCE NO. 569
include dandelions or clover. The City shall maintain a current list of
weeds and volunteer plants that are prohibited.
Section 3. Chapter 4.1(H)(7) hereby reads as follows:
4.1(H)(7) Native Plant Landscapes
Native Plant Landscapes are defined as a designated area where native
plants are being or have been planted and do not include gardens.
Native Plant Landscapes focus on the character and beauty of natural
grasses and vegetation, which shall not compromise the aesthetic quality
of city yards. Native Plant Landscapes typically require less watering
and absorb water quickly; do not provide food which would foster an
influx of rodents; rarely give off allergen-type pollens; and require less
intensive maintenance including less usage of fertilizers and pesticides.
(a) Native Plant Landscapes shall be allowed on residential and non-
residential areas. In rear lots, up to 35% of the applicable area is
allowed in native landscape plantings. There shall be no
overhang or encroachment onto sidewalks, curb or street areas.
Maintenance of Native Plant Landscapes does not exempt
property owners from existing zoning regulations.
(b) Setbacks shall be required for side, rear and front yards of
residential and non-residential areas. Setback must contain
pavement, rock, gravel, wood chips, or regularly mowed turf
grass, trees or shrubs.
(i) Side yard – 5 feet.
(ii) Back yard – 5 feet.
(iii) Front yard – 20 feet.
(c) A setback can be reduced to zero if there is:
(i) A public park, open space or vacant lot next to the
property.
(ii) An adjacent wetland, pond, lake, or stream.
(iii) If property is contained within a fully opaque fence
constructed according to zoning guidelines.
(iv) A restoration area is adjoining the property to be restored
with native plant landscaping.
(d) Applications shall be submitted and permits approved prior to
starting a Native Landscape project on any property. Application
and plans shall be submitted to the Community Development
Director for review and approval. The Community Development
Director shall review the application in accordance with this
ordinance prior to issuing a permit.
ORDINANCE NO. 569
Applications shall be on a form provided by the City and shall
include the following items as detailed on the application form:
(i) General information.
(ii) Site map (scale drawing).
(iii) Landscape proposal (scale drawing).
(iv) Planting schedule.
(v) Maintenance plan.
Permits shall expire if the Native Plant Landscaping is not
completed pursuant to the approved permit and landscape plan
within three months of the permit issuance date.
(e) All Native Plant Landscapes:
(i) Shall be marked with a sign indicating that a restoration
is in process. This sign must be installed upon native
planting installation.
(ii) Shall be controlled to prevent soil erosion during the
transition period of the restoration, in conjunction with
the City’s Public Nuisance ordinance.
(iii) Shall be mowed once annually between April 15 and June
1, to a height no great than 8 inches.
(f) It shall be unlawful for the property owner or occupant to allow
noxious plantings as part of a Native Landscape.
(i) Prohibited weeds: cocklebur, crabgrass, dandelions,
quackgrass, ragweed, and any grasses or weeds that are
classified as invasive species or are horticulturally out of
place according to the Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources.
(ii) Prohibited trees: female ginkgo, box elder, non disease-
resistant elm, non-hybrid cottonwoods, and any trees or
brush that are classified as invasive species or are
horticulturally out of place according to the Minnesota
Department of Natural Resources.
(iii) Lawns are prohibited from being left to “go natural” or
go to seed.
(g) The City shall not be held responsible for damage to native
landscape areas in the city right-of-way or public easements
resulting from city improvement projects or snow removal. Native
Plant Landscaping shall not obscure, block or impede visual
sight lines; regulatory, warning or street identification signs; or
street light illumination required for safe and efficient
circulation of vehicles and pedestrians in the area.
(h) Turf grass and other areas not covered by this ordinance are to
be maintained at a height of 6 inches or less. Areas exempt from
ORDINANCE NO. 569
the 6-inch mowing requirement include wetlands, floodplains,
drainage ponds or ditches, pasture land, steeply-sloped areas,
and restoration areas.
(i) Failure to comply with this ordinance shall result in cutting of
vegetation and/or cutting of the weeds by the City or designated
contractor. Expenses shall be billed to the property owner and
can be considered a lien upon the property for the amount of the
cost incurred by the City. These procedures are done in
accordance with the City’s Public Nuisance ordinance, City
Policies, and State Statutes.
Section 4. This Ordinance shall take effect and be in full force from and after its passage and
publication. Revisions will be made online after adoption by Council. Copies of
the complete Zoning Ordinance are available online and at Monticello City Hall.
ADOPTED BY the Monticello City Council this 10th day of December, 2012.
CITY OF MONTICELLO
__________________________________
Clint Herbst, Mayor
ATTEST:
___________________________________
Jeff O’Neill, City Administrator
VOTING IN FAVOR:
VOTING IN OPPOSITION:
CHAPTER 3: ZONING DISTRICTS
Section 3.4 Residential Base Zoning Districts
Subsection (D) R-A: Residential Amenities District
City of Monticello Zoning Ordinance Page 91
(D) R-A: Residential Amenities District
Section 3.4 (D)
R-A Residential Amenities District
The purpose of the "R-A" residence district is to provide
move up housing in the form of low density, single family,
detached residential dwelling units and directly related
complementary uses in areas of high natural residential
amenities including such conditions as woodlands,
wetlands, and significant views.
Maximum Density through PUD or Performance
Standards = 10,890 sq. ft. per unit (4.0 units per gross
acre)
Base Density = 16,000 sq ft per unit (2.7 units per gross acre)
Base Lot Area
Minimum = 14,000 sq ft.
Average = 16,000 sq ft (at least 40% of lots created
through subdivision shall exceed 15,000 sq ft in size)
Base Lot Width
Minimum = 90 ft.
Average = 100 ft. (at least 40% of lots created
through subdivision shall exceed 100 ft in width)
Typical R-A Building Types
Typical R-A Lot Configuration
CHAPTER 3: ZONING DISTRICTS
Section 3.4 Residential Base Zoning Districts
Subsection (D) R-A: Residential Amenities District
TABLE 3-4: R-A DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS
Max Minimum Minimum Roof
REQUIRED YARDS (in feet)
Height Minimum Floor Areas Building Pitch & Soffit
Interior Street
(stories / (sq ft) Width (vertical rise/
Front Rear
Side \[1\] Side
feet) (ft) horizontal run)
Minimum foundation
Single
sizes by home type
30 2.5 stories
35 10 20 24
Family
\[3\]
no minimum
\[2\] 35 feet
Building
soffit
2000 finishable \[4\]
\[1\]: For interior lots in R-1 and R-A districts, attached accessory st
setback, provided that the sum of both side yard setbacks shall be a minimum of 20 feet.
\[2\]: The required rear yard shall consist of a space at least 30-feet in depth across the entire width of the lot
that is exclusive of wetlands, ponds, or slopes greater than 12 percent.
\[3\]: 2400 square foot gross floor area excluding a basement or cellar for two story homes and a 1600 square
foot foundation for multi-level, rambler and split entry homes.
\[4\]: Finishable square footage is exclusive of attached accessory space.
An attached garage shall be included with all principal residential structures in the R-A district.
See Section 5.3(B) for all general standards and limitations on accessory structures.
Accessory
The minimum floor area for all attached accessory structures shall be 700 sq. ft.
Structures
No portion of any garage space may be more than five feet closer to the street than the front building
line of the principal use (including porch).
See footnote \[1\] above as related to setbacks for attached accessory structures on interior lots.
Section 3.3, Common District Requirements
Other
Section 3.4(B), Standards Applicable to All Residential Base Zoning Districts
Regulations
to Consult
Section 4.11, Building Materials
(not all
Section 4.8, Off-Street Parking
inclusive)
Section 4.1, Landscaping and Screening Standards
Page 92 City of Monticello Zoning Ordinance
CHAPTER 4: FINISHING STANDARDS
Section 4.1 Landscaping and Screening
Subsection (J) Zoning District Specific Landscaping Standards
Page 218 City of Monticello Zoning Ordinance
(J) Zoning District Specific Landscaping Standards
(1) Residential Amenities (RA) District Landscaping Requirements
RESERVED
(2) Traditional Neighborhood (TN) District Landscaping Requirements
Lots in the TN district shall adhere to the following additional landscaping
requirements:
(a) No less than 60% of the square footage of the front yard area shall be
planted in garden meeting the following requirements:
(i) 4.0 caliper inches of canopy trees plus 2 ornamental trees or 2.0
caliper inches of canopy trees + 1 evergreen tree.
(ii) No less than 1 shrub per 20 square feet of front yard area.
General required site
landscaping
requirements are in
Section 4.1(H).
CHAPTER 4: FINISHING STANDARDS
Section 4.11 Building Materials
Subsection (D) Business District Requirements
City of Monticello Zoning Ordinance Page 291
(3) R-A and T-N Districts
A minimum of 20% of the front building façade of any structure in the R-A or T-
N zoning district shall be covered with brick or stone. Any attached or major
detached accessory building that can be seen from the street shall meet this same
standard. Structures with front facades covered by at least 70% stucco or real
wood may reduce the brick or stone coverage to 10%.
(4) R-3 District and other Districts with Multiple Family Housing
A R-3 District and other districts with multiple family housing shall be subject to
building material standards as follows: all building walls facing a public street
shall be covered with stone, brick, cultured masonry simulating brick or stone, or
other enhanced materials acceptable to the City Council to an extent not less than
20% of the exposed wall silhouette area. In addition, multiple family structures of
thirteen (13) or more units shall, when lap horizontal siding, be constructed of
heavy gauge steel or cement-board, with no use of vinyl or aluminum permitted.
Natural wood or species that is resistant to decay may be permitted where
approved by the City Council.
(D) Business District Requirements
In all Business Zoning Districts (see table 3-1), the following building materials
standards shall apply.
(1) No galvanized or unfinished steel, galvalum, or unfinished aluminum buildings,
except those specifically designed to have a corrosive designed finish such
as“corten” steel, shall be permitted in the districts listed herein.
(2) Buildings in these zoning districts shall maintain a high standard of architectural
and aesthetic compatibility with conforming surrounding properties to ensure that
they will not adversely impact the property values of the abutting properties and
shall have a positive impact on the public health, safety, and general welfare,
insofar as practicable.
(3) Exterior building finishes in the districts subject to this Section shall consist of
materials compatible in grade and quality to the following:
(a) Brick
(b) Natural Stone
(c) Decorative rock face or concrete block
(d) Cast-in-place concrete or pre-cast concrete panels