07-18-13 Regular Meeting, Public Hearing and Workshop of the Planning and Zoning Commission

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, 2013 Staff Report July 18 Domestic Livestock Discussion Item Background: Staff has been asked to consider whether Domestic Livestock shouldbe allowed on the commercially zoned propertiesin La Porte.Currently domestic livestock –large residential lotis permitted in the Large Lot (LL) district. But, it is an accessory use in all other residential zoning districts,i.e. R-1, R-2, R-3, & MH. Whereas, Domestic Livestock-without an existing principal structure on the property, is permittedonlyin largelot district, whentract is one acre in size or greater. The Planning and Zoning Commission, during their November 15, 2012, meeting held a public hearing to receive citizen input and City Council at the December 10, 2012, meeting,approved zoning ordinance amendments pertaining to accessory structures, barns and/or livestock without a primary structure which are indeed personal, non commercial uses on tracts one acre in size or larger within the large lot district. Analysis: Staff’s research shows that neighboring cities ordinances contain provisions which regulate livestock operations in agricultural and conservation zones, and prohibit the keeping of livestock in residential zones. Some cities have different requirements for different types of animals. Keeping of the horses is undoubtedly the predominant domestic livestock usein La Porte. The following concerns must be consideredwith respect to the keeping of livestock: Animal waste management, storage, usage, and disposal Health risks Animal escaping and running at large Treatment and housing of animals Erosion and sedimentation control Vehicular access Noise Odors Water pollution Lighting and fencing Lomax area is a rural/large lot residential zoning district which abuts to commercially zonedproperties to the east along Sens Road and west along Underwood Road where a few small parcels of land are left undeveloped. Although, single-family dwellingis the primaryuse,domestic livestockis also a predominant use within the Large Lot district. Per ordinancetwo animals per acre is the general rule plus one head for each additional one-haf acre of land on the same parcel.