07-21-2005 Regular Meeting and Workshop of the La Porte Planning and Zoning Commission

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Planning & Zoning Commissl • August 18, 2005 Page 2 of 2 Per Section 106-773 of the ordinance, all materials and equipment shall be stored within a building or fully screened from adjoining properties, except for the following: • Clothesline poles and wires • Construction and landscaping material being used on premises • Off-street parking of vehicles • Firewood, compost, or residential lawn and garden tools. Suggested Requirements: Minimum Lot Width — An inventory of existing lots shows that majority of lots have front between 90'to100'. Under the circumstances, a minimum lot width of 90' is appropriate for the proposed district. Accessory Buildings — Accessory buildings and structures shall not exceed 35' in height. In fact, it conforms to the maximum height of primary structures in residential areas in town. Outside Equipment/Exterior Storage — Reinstate the control on equipment and exterior storage in the area. A strict compliance to Sections 106-741 (h) (i) and 106- 773 shall be adhered. It is staff s opinion that "No Control" on storage of outdoor equipment will lead to junkyards or eyesores in the area. In addition, screening shall be required in accordance with Section 106-444(a) of the Ordinances. Any storage shall be fenced with an opaque fence or planting screen to a height of at least four feet, but no more than six feet. The material for that fence shall be approved by the City. It is suggested that any transitional yard located behind an opaque fence shall be landscaped with a suitable ground covers, shrubs, and the planting of shade trees. Grazing Animals — As breeding/raising of animals for show, such as found in FFA and 4H programs, is not a listed use for large lot residential, this unlisted use shall be subject to a special conditional use permit and requires zoning permit for tracking purposes. General procedure per Section 106-216 shall be applicable. Provision will be for an assembly of animals for the purpose of competition or public presentation including but not limited to fairs, shows, and rodeo events. Conclusions: The above stated recommendations are based on Planning Dept. staff research and direction provided by the Commission during the July 21, 2005 meeting. It is staff s opinion that the recommendations allow for reasonable development of accessory buildings which will contribute to the comfort, convenience or necessity of the occupant or resident in the principal structure or use. In addition, it will not be contrary to public interest and will not result in substantial injury to surrounding property or the appropriate use. Actions available to the Commission are as follows: • Set a public hearing date. • Provide other direction to staff. • Continue discussion until next meeting.