Workshop back up only - 3/20/08 Planning and Zoning Commission

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Planning & Zoning Commission March 20, 2008 Page 3 of3 . Similarly, Table 503 of the International Building Code (IBC) addresses height requirements. Table 503 utilizes intended use and construction type of buildings to determine allowable height and areas for a building. · Later sections (Sec. 504) allow for some increase in building storieslheight when automatic sprinkler system requirements are met; and Sec. 506 provides for some area modifications based on certain setbacks and sprinkler systems. . The building code is, in fact, more restrictive than the Fire Codes. Even with sprinkler systems, most building height and area limitations are not unlimited and are governed by the IBC. . Commercial developments that include fire sprinklers utilize water distribution flow tests to determine fire suppression capabilities in relation to the proposed height of the project. Conclusion: The City's Code of Ordinances provides guidelines to minimize any adverse influence of commercial activities on adjacent residential development by requiring appropriate buffers such as physical screens, increased setbacks, and use of open space. Recommended Requirements: The hotel/motel issue is already taken care of by making it a "Conditional" use in commercial zoning districts when adjacent to residentially zoned properties. The other adverse impact would be height limitations for those uses permitted in general commercial zoning districts adjacent to residential neighborhoods. Upon the conclusion of the workshop, several members felt that the previous 45' rule remained a valuable tool to monitor growth and development within the City and was in the best interests of the citizens regarding the maximum height of development. Staff recommends that the 45' maximum height rule should be reinstated for the future developments in commercial zoning districts when adjacent to residential zoned properties only. The Planning and Zoning Commission may also wish to continue review/discussion of uses in General Commercial (GC) zoning district. Action by the Commission 1. Discuss the Issue 2. The Commission may elect to: ~ Direct Staff to develop a recommendation ~ Arrange a public hearing by next meeting ~ Make a Recommendation to City Council at conclusion of a public hearing.