HomeMy WebLinkAbout2023-02-09 Planning Commission Meeting Packet CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING AGENDA
Thursday, February 9, 2023
6:00 P.M.
I. Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance
II. Approval of Agenda
III. Approve January 12, 2023 Planning Commission Meeting Minutes (1)
IV. Department/Commission Liaison/Other Reports
V. Visitors/Public Comment
• This is an opportunity for the public to address the Commission with questions or comments on issues
that are or are not part of the regular Agenda. Please limit comments to three minutes in length.
VI. Public Hearings
VII. New Business
VIII. Old Business
A. Urban Heat Islands—Parking Requirements/Landscaping (2)
IX. Informational
A. Upcoming Meetings (3)
B. Council Representative
Tuesday, February 28, 2023 —Commissioner VanDenburgh
Tuesday, March 28, 2023 —Commissioner Husby
X. Adjourn.
CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING MINUTES
Thursday,January 12, 2023
Call to Order/Pledge of Allegiance:
Vice Chair Van Denburgh called the meeting to order at 6:02 p.m. Present: Commissioners
Freeman, Husby, and VanDyke; City Administrator Johnson, City Planner Richards, and
City Councilmember Liaison Representative Liljegren.
II. Approval of Agenda:
Commissioner VanDyke, seconded by Commissioner Husby moved to approve the Agenda
as amended, adding Appoint New Commissioner as Item B. to New Business. Carried 4-0.
III. Approval of December 8, 2022 Meeting Minutes:
Commissioner Freeman, seconded by Commissioner VanDyke, moved to approve the
Minutes as presented. Carried 4-0.
IV. Department/Commission Liaison/Other Reports: City Councilmember Liaison
Representative Liljegren reported that at its last meeting, the City Council approved the Fat
Tire Bike Rally for February 19, 2023; approved City Council appointments for 2023, which
will remain the same as they were in 2022; and noted upcoming meetings n January 24th and
February 14th
City Administrator Johnson noted that the City did close on the sale of the property located
at 5416 Stagecoach Trail N.
V. Visitors/Public Comment: Jim Kremer of 5475 Oakgreen Place N. noted his
understanding of Commissioner White's departure from the Commission and expressed his
interest in appointment consideration to the Planning Commission.
VI. Public Hearings: None.
VII. New Business:
A. Urban Heat Islands—Parking Requirements/Landscaping:
City Planner Richards discussed parking standards and elements, noting design
change over time. He reviewed and discussed highlights of his January 4, 2023
Planning Memorandum , noting that the how they relate to environmental issues as
well as to specifically urban heat islands.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 12,2023
Page 2 of 3
Discussion was had as to many items, including pervious surface, increased parking
island size, parking lot tree shading, tree issues to parking areas such as sign
blockage and damage to vehicles from large trees, handicap and required parking
spaces,parking lot landscaping minimums standards being placed within the City
Zoning Ordinance,multi-purpose use of green space areas, snow storage , how
requirements could come into play with redevelopment activities,potential for
reduction of upfront development costs,potential for existing usable commercial
space being realized and a way to fix some of the existing parking lots,
incentivizing change versus opportunity to require change, ordinance text as it relates
to parking requirements, terms and definitions. Clarification of what the 15-20-10
policy for grant program eligibility was asked for.
Commissioner Freeman, seconded by Commissioner VanDyke,moved that Staff
refine the concept and bring it back to the Planning Commission for continued
review.
Carried 4—0.
B. Appoint New Commissioner:
Discussion was had as to term of current members, and vacancies that will require
filling. Commissioner Freeman's second full term will end May 31, 2023. Freeman
indicated that he did not want to seek a special one-year extension at that time;
however, if needed he could remain on the Commission until a new member is
placed.
Commissioner VanDenburgh, seconded by Commissioner VanDyke moved to direct
Staff search for two Planning Commissioners. One to fill the immediate vacancy
and one to fill the vacancy at the end of Commissioner Freeman's term.
Carried 3-1, Freeman opposed.
Commissioner Freeman clarified that he opposed only because he felt it would be
better to have someone on board as quickly as possible and that they had a qualified
party express interest in appointment.
VIII. Old Business: None.
Planning Commission Minutes
January 12, 2023
Page 3 of 3
IX. Informational:
A. Upcoming Meetings: Noted.
C. Council Representative:
• Tuesday, January 24, 2023 —Commissioner VanDyke
• Tuesday, February 28, 2023 —Commissioner VanDenburgh
X. Adjourn: Commissioner Husby, seconded by Commissioner VanDyke, moved
to adjourn at 7:03 p.m. Carried 4-0.
Respectfully submitted,
Julie Hultman
Planning & Code Enforcement
Approved by the Planning Commission:
Ef-dAnilAL 2_
TPC3601 Thurston Avenue N, Suite 100
Anoka, MN 55303
Phone: 763.231.5840
Facsimile: 763.427.0520
TPC@ Pla n n i ngCo.corn
MEMORANDUM
TO: Eric Johnson
FROM: Scott Richards
DATE: January 31, 2023
RE: Oak Park Heights — Urban Heat Islands — Parking
Requirements/Landscaping
TPC FILE: 236.01 - 22.01
BACKGROUND
The City Council, at their October 11, 2022, meeting discussed a request by
Councilmember Carly Johnson to consider policies related to reducing the impact of the
City's urban heat islands. As you are aware there are large areas of parking lots in the
west commercial area of the City, centered around Walmart, Lowes, Menards, and the
shopping center that includes the Kowalski's. The City Council has asked the Planning
Commission to review the issue and especially the parking requirements of the Zoning
Ordinance.
The Planning Commission discussed the urban heat island topic at their January 12,
2023, meeting. They discussed the draft language and made corrections and
suggestions. It was recommended that Staff bring back a revised draft for discussion at
the February meeting. This report does not include the background information that
was provided with the January packet. Please refer to the January packet for that
information.
Parking Standards
The Planning Commission agreed that the City should look to reduce the parking
requirements, not only to provide more green space but also to provide pads for
redevelopment. Although the commercial areas of the City are almost completely
developed, there will be opportunities in the future to work with developers in re-
imagining these areas with fewer parking spaces and more green space. The City has
an opportunity now to revise its parking requirements as the first step in preparing for
redevelopment opportunities.
Staff would recommend the following changes to the parking requirements of the Zoning
Ordinance. In most cases the parking requirements could be reduced by 50 percent.
There are exceptions for some housing uses and schools where parking demand has
not decreased. New language is in bold, and removed language is lined through.
Language added and changes since the January meeting is in
401.15.F. Off-Street Parking and Loading.
1. Off-Street Parking Purpose. The regulation of off-street parking spaces in
these zoning regulations is to alleviate or prevent congestion of the public right-
of-way and to promote the safety and general welfare of the public, by
establishing minimum requirements for off-street parking of motor vehicles in
accordance with the utilization of various parcels of land or structures.
2. Application of Off-Street Parking Regulations. The regulations and
requirements set forth herein shall apply to all off-street parking facilities in all of
the zoning districts of the City.
1 3. Site Plan Drawing Necessary. All applications for a building or an occupancy
permit in all zoning districts shall be accompanied by a site plan drawn to scale
and dimension indicating the location of off-street parking and loading spaces in
compliance with the requirements set forth in this Section. All site plans for
single family homes must provide for the location of a two (2) stall garage in
compliance with this Chapter.
4. General Provisions.
a. Floor Area. The term "floor area" for the purpose of calculating the
number of off-street parking spaces required shall be determined on the
basis of the exterior floor area dimensions of the buildings, structures or
use times the number of floors, minus ten (10) percent, except as may
hereinafter be provided or modified.
b. Reduction of Existing Off Street Parking Space or Lot Area. Off street
-use.
c. Non-Conforming Structures. Should a non-conforming structure or use be
damaged or destroyed by fire, it may be re-established if elsewhere
permitted in these zoning regulations and in Minnesota Statute, except
that in doing so, any off-street parking or loading space which existed
before shall be retained.
d. Change of Use or Occupancy of Land. No change of use or occupancy of
land already dedicated to a parking area, parking space, or loading
spaces shall be made, nor shall any sale of land, division or subdivision of
land be made which reduces area necessary for parking, parking stalls, or
parking requirements below "e in%,im 1 prescribed by these zoning
regulations.
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e. Change of Use or Occupancy of Buildings. Any change of use or
occupancy of any building or buildings, including additions thereto
requiring more parking areas shall not be permitted until there is furnished
such additional parking spaces as required by these zoning regulations.
f. Residential Use Parking.
1) Except as provided below in Subsection 412 and except on a
limited, temporary basis involving guests or work being performed
on site, on and off-street parking facilities shall be utilized solely for
the parking of licensed and operable passenger automobiles, vans,
one (1) truck not to exceed gross capacity of twelve thousand
(12,000) pounds; and recreational vehicles and equipment which
are the property of the occupant, except as provided below in
Subsection 4.f.2. Under no circumstances shall required facilities
accessory to residential structures be used for the storage of non-
qualifying commercial vehicles, commercial equipment, or for the
parking of automobiles belonging to the employees, owners,
tenants or customers of business or manufacturing establishments.
2) For detached single family uses in residential zoning districts, the
off-street parking of vehicles other than those stipulated in
Subsection 4.f.1 above may be allowed as an interim use permit
pursuant to Section 401.05 of these zoning regulations, provided
that:
a) The property fronts on an improved public street which is
determined by the City Engineer to be capable of carrying
the vehicles in question without undue damage.
b) The type of vehicle to be parked does not create an
unreasonable safety hazard to neighboring residents or the
public utilizing the street(s) servicing the property.
c) The site upon which the vehicle is parked has adequate
space to allow turning movements and parking which does
not result in the backing of vehicles from or onto the public
street.
d) The parking of such vehicles does not adversely affect
neighboring property owners as it relates to noise.
e) The parking of such vehicles is screened from neighboring
properties and the public right-of-way to the extent
determined as necessary by the City Council in compliance
with Section 401.15.E. of this Ordinance.
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f) The provisions of Section 401.05 of this Ordinance are
considered and determined to be satisfied.
g. Calculating Space.
1) When determining the number of off-street parking spaces results
in a fraction, each fraction over.5 shall constitute another space.
2) In stadiums, sports arenas, churches and other places of public
assembly in which patrons or spectators occupy benches, pews or
other similar seating facilities, each twenty-two (22) inches of such
seating facilities shall be counted as one seat for the purpose of
determining requirements.
3) Except as provided for under joint parking and shopping centers,
should a structure contain two (2) or more types of use, the sum of
each shall be calculated separately and shall be used for
determining the total off-street parking spaces required.
h. Stall, Aisle and Driveway Design.
1) Parking Space Size. Except for handicapped parking spaces,
each parking space shall not be less than nine (9) feet wide and
twenty (20) feet in length, eighteen (18) feet in length adjacent to
a curb, exclusive of access aisles, and each space shall be served
adequately by access aisles.
2) Street Access. All off-street parking facilities shall be designed and
constructed with appropriate means of vehicular access to a public
street. Except in the case of a planned unit development, each lot
shall have access directly onto an abutting, improved and City
accepted public street. Exception to this access requirement may
be allowed as a conditional use permit pursuant to Section 401.03
of this Ordinance.
3) Within Structures. The off-street parking requirements may be
furnished by providing a space so designed within the principal
building or one (1) structure attached thereto; however, unless
provisions are made, no building permit shall be issued to convert
said parking structure into a dwelling unit or living area or other
activity until other adequate provisions are made to comply with the
required off-street parking provisions of this Ordinance.
4) Lot Circulation. Except in the case of single, two-family,
townhouse, quadraminium, and manor home dwellings, parking
areas shall be designed so that circulation between parking bays or
aisles occurs within the designated parking lot and does not
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depend upon a public street or alley, unless allowed though a
Conditional Use Permit. Except in the case of single, two-family,
townhouse, quadraminium, and manor home dwellings, parking
area design which requires backing into the public street is
prohibited.
5) Intersection Separation. No curb cut access shall be located less
than sixty (60) feet from the intersection of two (2) or more street
rights-of-way. This distance shall be measured from the
intersection of lot lines.
6) Lot Design. Except in the case of single family, two family,
-- -- -
a- •- - a •...---.e. - - ' - - - =
7) Parallel Parking. Parallel parking spaces shall be at least twenty-
two (22) feet in length.
8) Curb Cut Size. No curb cut access shall exceed twenty-four (24)
feet in width, or thirty-two (32) feet when accessing a State
highway, except by conditional use permit. approval of the City
Engineer.
9) Side Yard Setback. Except with special approval from the Zoning
Administrator, curb cut openings shall be a minimum of five (5) feet
from the side yard property line in all districts.
Staff proposes the following table be eliminated. The City Engineer reviews site
plans to determine if parking lot design is adequate based upon the individual
circumstances.
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PARKING LOT DIMENSIONS TABLE*
Curb Curb
Angle of Stall Length Stall Aisle Angle of Stall Length Stall Aisle
Parking Width Per Car Depth Width Parking Width Per Car Depth Width
8'6" 23'0'' 8'6" 12'0" 8'6" 11'2" 20'0" 12'6"
0° 9,6, 23,0.. 9,6„ 12,0„ 50° 99.6' 12,5" 20,9" 12'0"
10'0" 23'0" 10'0" 12'0" 10'0" 13'2" 21'0" 12'0"
8'6" 24'11" 14'6" 11'0" 8'6" 9'10" 20'9" 18'6"
ZD° 9'0' 26'4" 15'0" 11'0" 9'0" 10'5" 21'0" 18'0"
9'6" 27'10" 15'6" 11'0" 60° 9'6" 11'0" 21'3" 18'0"
10'0" 29'3" 15'11" 11'0" 10'0" 11'6" 21'6" 18'0"
8'6" 170" 16'11" 11'0" 8'6" 9'0" 20'10" 19'6"
° 9'0" 18'0" 17'4" 11'0" 9'0" 9'8" 21'0" 19'0"
30 9'6" 19'0" 17'10" 11'0" 70° 9'6" 10'2" 21'3" 18'6"
10'0" 20'0" 18'3" 11'0" 10'0" 10'8" 21'3" 18'0"
8'6" 13'3" 18'9" 12'0" 8'6" 8'8" 20'3" 24'0"
40°
9'0" 14'0"' 19'2" 12'0" ° 9'0" 9'2" 20'4" 24'0"
9'6" 14'10" 19'6" 12'0" $0 9'6" 9'8" 20'5" 24'0"
10'0" 15'8" 19'11" 12'0" 10'0" 10'3" 20'6" 24'0"
8'6" 12'0" 19'5" 13'6" 8'6" 8'6" 20'0" 24'0"
9'0" 12'9" 19'10" 13'0" 9'0" 9'0" 20'0" 22'0"
45° 9'6" 13'5" 20'2" 13'0" 90° 9'6" 9'6" 20'0" 22'0"
10'0" 14'2" 20'6" 13'0" 10'0" 10'0" 20'0" 22'0"
*This table pertains to a wall to wall situation. In calculating dimensions, two (2)feet may be subtracted
from each stall depth for each overhang and overlap. No subtraction for overlap is allowed for angles greater
than sixty (60°)degrees.
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a Curb length per car 3 °
v o
,
b Stall width 0 d . 4 e g .-
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c Angle of parking 0 C h
d Stall depth \` �# ***/ ;
e Aisle width j \` �\` \i
f Stall length i®\\ /
/ /
i
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I)g Overlap \\a
h Overhang t \
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10) Curb Cut Spacing. Driveway access curb openings on a public
street except for single, two-family, quadraminium, manor home,
and townhouse dwellings, shall not be located less than forty (40)
feet from one another.
11) Grade. The grade elevation of any parking area or driveways shall
not exceed ten (10) percent.
12) Number of Curb Cuts. Each property shall be allowed one (1) curb
cut access for each one hundred twenty-five (125) feet of street
frontage. All property shall be entitled to at least one curb cut.
13) Surfacing. All areas intended to be utilized for parking space and
driveways shall be hard surfaced with materials suitable to control
dust and drainage. Plans for surfacing and drainage of driveways
and stalls for five (5) or more vehicles shall be submitted to the City
Engineer for review and the final drainage plan shall be subject to
written approval.
The Planning Commission decided not to incorporate
language related to pervious pavement.
14) Striping. Except for single, two-family townhouses, quadraminiums,
all parking stalls shall be marked with white or yellow painted lines
not less than four (4) inches wide.
15) Lighting. Any lighting used to illuminate an off-street parking area
shall be hooded and so arranged as to reflect the light away from
adjoining property, abutting residential uses, and public rights-of-
way, and shall be in compliance with Section 401.15.8.7. of this
Ordinance.
116) Signs. No sign shall be so located as to restrict the sight lines and
orderly operation and traffic movement within any parking lot or
driveway. All signs shall be in conformance with Section 401.15.G
of this Ordinance.
3417) Curbing and Landscaping. Except for single and two-family
dwellings, all open, off-street parking shall have a continuous
concrete perimeter curb barrier around the entire parking lot; said
curb barrier shall not be closer than ten (10) feet to any lot line or
right of way line. Grass plantings and landscaping shall be
provided in all areas bordering the parking area.
18) Required Screening. All open off-street parking areas of five (5) or
more spaces shall be screened and landscaped from abutting or
surrounding residential districts and uses, and the public right-of-
way in compliance with Section 401.15.E. of this Ordinance.
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19) Snow Storage. Adequate space for snow storage shall be provided
on the site so as not to reduce the required minimum number of
parking spaces. In those cases where excessive snow cannot be
properly stored on site, it shall be immediately removed from the
site.
20) Driveway Turn Around. In the case of single family, two-family,
townhouse, quadraminium, and manor home dwellings, which front
on streets designated as collector, minor arterial, intermediate
arterial and principal arterial by the City's Comprehensive Plan, the
installation of a vehicle turn-around space, immediately adjacent to
the access driveway is allowed and may be required by the City
Council. Said space is to be no larger than ten (10) feet wide and
ten (10) feet in length. Where possible, said space shall be located
away from the principal structure and shall be no closer than twenty
(20) feet from the street surface. Said space shall not to be utilized
for parking or storage purposes.
5. Maintenance. It shall be the joint and several responsibility of the lessee and
owner of the principal use, uses or buildings to maintain in a neat and adequate
manner, the parking space, accessways, striping, landscaping and required
fencing and screening.
16. Location. All accessory off-street parking facilities as required by this Ordinance
shall be located and restricted as follows:
a. Required accessory off-street parking shall be on the same lot under the
same ownership as the principal use being served, except under the
provisions of Section 401.15.F.10.
b. Except for single, two-family, townhouse, quadraminium, and manor home
dwellings, head-in parking, directly off of and adjacent to a public street,
with each stall having its own direct access to the public street, shall be
prohibited.
c. The boulevard portion of the street right-of-way shall not be used for
parking, except on a designated driveway.
d. Setback Area - Required Accessory Off-street Parking. Required
accessory off-street parking shall be provided for single family dwellings
within the R-1 and R-2 Districts and for quadraminium and townhouse
dwellings within R-3 and R-B Districts, in a garage, car port, or on a
defined driveway leading directly into a garage or car port, and shall be
constructed of concrete, asphalt, cobblestone, or paving block.
e. Setback Area - Accessory Off-Street Parking (General). Accessory off-
street parking provided above and beyond the requirements of this
Ordinance for single family uses within R-1 and R-2 Districts and
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quadraminium and townhouse dwellings within R-3 and R-B Districts shall
be subject to - - _ . _ e . . _ _ e. - - •-4 •:: _ _ the
following: Accessory off-street parking shall be provided on a designated
driveway leading directly into a garage and/or on one (1) designated
parking pad contiguous to the driveway and located away from the
principal use. Said accessory off-street parking area may be located
within the front, side, or rear yard setback and must be constructed of
concrete, asphalt, cobblestone, paving block or crushed rock that at a
minimum meets Class Five (5) material specifications and has at least a
four (4) inch deep base. Said parking pad must be set back at least five
(5) feet from rear and side property lines.
f. Truck and Trailer Parking in Residential Areas. No more than one (1)
truck and/or trailer not to exceed a gross capacity of twelve thousand
(12,000) GVW shall be parked off-street in a residentially zoned district,
except when loading, unloading or rendering a service.
g. Violations may be enforced through tagging.
h. Trailers, Recreational Vehicles, and Boat Parking in Residential Areas.
Trailers, recreational vehicles or boats shall be allowed on a driveway or
designated pad. All trailers, recreational vehicles and boats shall be
parked at least five (5) feet from rear property lines.
7. Use of Required Area. Required accessory off-street parking spaces in any
district shall not be utilized for open storage, sale or rental of goods, repair work,
storage of inoperable vehicles, and/or storage of snow.
8. Handicapped Parking Spaces. Except for single family, two-family, townhouse,
quadraminium, and manor home dwellings, at 'east one handicapped parking
space shall be provided for each use. P per the Americans with Disabilities Act
(ADA), - • - - - • .=•- -- - -'- - - "=-- - - • _ - .
shall be at minimum twelve (12) feet by twenty (20) feet, and shall be located so
as to provide convenient, priority access to the principal use and shall conform to
Minnesota Statutes, Section 168.021, as may be amended.
9. Number of Spaces Required. The following minimum/maximum number of off-
street parking spaces shall be provided and maintained by ownership, easement
and/or lease for and during the life of the respective uses hereinafter set forth.
The City Council reserves the right to establish parking requirements for any use
not specifically provided for hereafter, or after any requirement as necessary to
meet the objectives of this Section. Factors to be considered in such a
determination shall include (without limitation) size of buildings, type of use,
number of employees, expected volume and turnover of customer traffic and
expected frequency and number of delivery or service vehicles.
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a. Auto Repair, Major Bus Terminal, Taxi Terminal, Bottling Company, Shop
for a Trade Employing Six (6) or Less People, Garden Supply Store,
Building Material Sales in Structure. Eight (8) Four (4) off-street parking
spaces, plus one (1) additional space for each eight hundred (800) square
feet of floor area over one thousand (1,000) square feet.
b. Baseball Fields, Stadiums. At least ne (1) parking space for each eight
(8) seats of design capacity.
c. Boat and Marine Sales and Service. One (1) space for each
(400) eight hundred (800) square feet of floor area for the first twenty-five
thousand (25,000) square feet, plus one (1) space for each six hundred
(600) square feet thereafter.
d. Boating Marinas and Yacht Clubs. Seven (7) Four (4) spaces for each
ten (10) boat or mooring spaces.
e. Banks. One space per two hundred fifty (250) five hundred (500) square
feet of floor area.
f. Banks (Drive-in). Two (2) One (1) space for each drive-in unit plus drive
aisle stacking space of one hundred eighty (180) feet for each drive-in
unit.
g. Boarding and Lodging House. At least ne (1) parking space for each
Iwo (2) four(4) people for whom accommodation is provided for sleeping.
h. Bowling Alley. At least five (5) F`hree (3) parking spaces for each alley,
plus additional spaces as may be required herein for related uses
contained within the principal structure plus one space for every
employee.
i. Car Wash. (In addition to required magazining or stacking space).
1) Automobile Drive Through, Services. A minimum of ten (10) - ive
(5) spaces, or one (1) space for each employee on the maximum
shift, whichever is greater.
2) Self-Service. A minimum of wo (2) spaces.
3) Motor Fuel Station Car Wash. Zero (0) in addition to that required
for the station.
j. Churches, Auditorium. At least One parking space for each three (3) six
(6) seats based on the design capacity of the main assembly hall.
Facilities as may be provided in conjunction with such buildings or uses
shall be subject to additional requirements which are imposed by this
Ordinance.
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k. Clinics. One (1) space per one,w " ed (100) two hundred (200) square
feet of floor area.
1. Community Centers, Physical Culture Studios, Libraries, Private Clubs,
Lodges, Art Galleries. Ten (10) Five (5) spaces plus one for each one
hundred fifty (150) square feet in excess of two thousand (2,000) square
feet of floor area in the principal structure.
m. Elderly (Senior Citizen) Housing. '--- _ _ _ _ . - _ _ -
One-half (1/2) space per unit. and said number of spacec can continuo
has been demonstrated.
n. Funeral Home. At least twenty (20) en (10) parking spaces for each
chapel or parlor, plus one (1) parking space for each funeral vehicle
maintained on the premises. Aisle space shall also be provided off the
street for making up a funeral procession.
o. Furniture and Appliance Stores. One (1) space per four hundred (400)
eight hundred(800) square feet of floor area.
p. Golf course, Golf Clubhouse, Country Club, Swimming Club, Tennis Club,
Public Swimming Pool. Twenty (20) Ten (10) spaces plus one (1) space
for each five hundred (500) square feet of floor area in the principal
structure.
q. Golf Driving Range, Miniature Golf, Archery Range. Ten (10) Five (5) off-
street parking spaces plus one (1) for each one hundred (100) five
hundred(500) square feet of floor area.
r. Hospitals. One space for each two (2) four (4) patient beds (excluding
bassinets), plus one additional space for each doctor including visiting
doctors, plus one space for each two (2) employees including nurses;
loading and unloading space for hospital ambulances and similar vehicles
are not included in the spaces required.
s. Manufacturing, Fabricating or Processing of a Product or Material. At least
eight (8) i our (4) spaces plus one (1) space for each two (2) employees
on each shift based on maximum planned employment
least , ight (8) spaces plus one (1) space for each five hundred (500)
square feet of floor area.
t. Motels, Motor Hotels, Hotels, Resorts. One (1) space per each rental unit
plus one (1) additional space for each ten (10) twenty (20) units and one
(1) space for each employee shift. In addition, one (1) space per forty (40)
one hundred (100) square feet of meeting and/or banquet room.
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u. Motor Fuel Station. At least our (4) off-street parking spaces plus two (2)
one (1) off-street parking spaces for each service stall. Those facilities
designed for sale of other items than strictly automotive products, parts or
service shall be required to provide additional parking in compliance with
other applicable provisions of this Ordinance.
v. Multiple Family Dwellings. At least two (2) One (1) free space per unit.
w. Office Buildings, Animal Hospitals, Professional Offices, Medical and
Dental Clinics. Three (3) spaces plus a-t-laast one space for each twe
hundred (200) four hundred (400) square feet of floor area.
x. Post Office. One space for each four hundred (400) eight hundred (800)
square feet of floor area plus one space for each employee.
y. Public Parks, Playgrounds and Playfields. At least five (5) _hree (3)
parking spaces for each acre of park over one (1) acre; two (2) parking
spaces per acre for playgrounds, and ten (10) five (5) spaces for each
acre of playfield. When a public recreation site has more than one (1) use
designation, the areas must be divided for determining the required
parking spaces.
z. Research, experimental or testing station. One (1) space per each
employee on the largest shift or one (1) space per five hundred (500) one
thousand (1,000) square feet of floor area whichever is greater.
aa. Restaurants, Cafes, Private Clubs Serving Food and/or Drinks, Bars,
Taverns, Nightclubs. At least _ ne (1) space for each forty (40) one
hundred (100) square feet of gross floor area of dining and bar area and
one (1) space for each eighty (80) one hundred twenty (120) square feet
of kitchen area.
bb. Drive-in Restaurant and Fast Food Restaurant. At least One (1) parking
space for each thirty five (35) one hundred (100) square feet of gross
floor area of service and dining area, but not less than fifteen (15) ten (10)
spaces. Two (2) additional parking spaces shall be added for drive-
through services facilities and one (1) space for each eighty (80) one
hundred twenty (120) square feet of kitchen/storage area. Additionally,
one hundred eighty (180) feet of drive aisle stacking space shall be
provided for drive-through facilities.
cc. Retail Store and Service Establishment. At least ne (1) off-street parking
space for each two hundred (200) four hundred (400) square feet of floor
area.
dd. Retail Sales and Service Business with Fifty (50) Percent or More of
Gross Floor Area Devoted to Storage, Warehouse and/or Industry. At
12
least ight (8) spaces or one (1) space for each two hundred (200) four
hundred (400) square feet devoted to public sales or service plus one (1)
space for each five hundred (500) one thousand (1,000) square feet of
storage area; or at-least eight (8) spaces and one (1) space for each
employee on the maximum shift, whichever is appropriate.
ee. Sanitariums, Convalescent Home, Rest Home, Nursing Home or Day
Nurseries. Four (4) spaces plus one (1) for each three (3) six (6) beds for
which accommodations are offered and one space designated for
emergency vehicles.
ff School, Elementary and Junior High. At least ne (1) parking space for
each classroom plus one additional space for each fifty (50) students.
Auditorium or event space shall be subject to a separate, additional
calculation.
gg. School, High School through College and Private and Day or Church
Schools. At least ' ne (1) parking space for each seven (7) students
based on design capacity plus one (1) for each three (3) classrooms.
Auditorium or event space shall be subject to a separate, additional
calculation.
I hh. Single Family, Two-Family, and Townhouse Unit. Two (2) spaces per
unit, both of which are in a covered garage structure.
ii. Shopping Centers. Six (6) Three (3) spaces per each one thousand
(1,000) square feet of gross floor area.
jj. Skating Rink, Dance Hall, or Public Auction Houses. Twenty (20) Ten
(10) off-street parking spaces, plus one (1) additional off-street parking
space for each two hundred (200) four hundred (400) square feet of floor
space over two thousand (2,000) square feet.
kk. Theaters, Civic Centers, Auditoriums, Stadiums, Sports Arenas or Similar
Uses. One space for each four (4) six (6) seats, plus one space for each
two (2) employees.
ll. Warehousing, Storage or Handling of Bulk Goods. One (1) space per two
(2) employees of the largest shift or one (1) space per each one thousand
five hundred (1,500) two thousand (2,000) square feet of floor area,
whichever is greater.
mm. Wholesale Business Establishments. One (1) space per each employee
two (2) employees on the largest shift or one (1) space per two thousand
(2,000) square feet of floor area whichever is greater. In addition, one (1)
space per company motor vehicle on the premises.
13
nn. All other commercial. Ten (10) spaces per two
thousand(2,000) square feet of floor area.
oo. Space Reductions. Subject to the review and processing of a conditional
use permit as regulated by Section 401.03 of this Ordinance, the City may
reduce or increase the number of required off-street parking spaces when
the use can demonstrate in documented form a need which is less than
required. In such situations, the City may require land to be reserved for
parking development should use or needs change.
Off Street Loading Requirements
Section 401.15.F.12 and 13 - Off-Street Loading Purpose and Location.
The Zoning Ordinance also contains detailed provisions regarding off street loading.
Staff would recommend these provisions be eliminated in that they are excessive for
what is actually needed. If a retailer or wholesaler requires loading berths, they will
provide what is needed for their business. It is suggested that these provisions, be
eliminated.
Design Guidelines/Zoning Ordinance Landscape Requirements
The Design Guidelines provide some minimal standards for requiring landscaping within
parking lots. It only addresses larger lots of over 50 or more stalls. The language in the
guidelines is not mandatory and is as follows:
Parking area shall be screened with a combination of landscape materials, landform,
and decorative fencing or walls sufficient to screen parking cars on a year round basis
while providing adequate visibility for pedestrians. Initial parking lot landscaping shall
be incorporated when possible. Within off-street parking facilities with 50 or more stalls,
landscape islands, peninsulas, or rain gardens (biofiltration islands) shall be provided at
the rate of 180 square feet per 125 surface stalls or fraction thereof. Landscape islands
shall be irrigated unless alternative stormwater management techniques are employed.
The landscape island guideline is a minimal standard that would not mitigate the heat
island effect to any degree. The issue with many of the landscape islands installed in
Oak Park Heights and throughout the Twin Cities area is that they are too small to
adequately allow for heathy trees and other plantings.
Staff suggest that the guidelines for landscaping within parking islands be moved out of
the Design Guidelines and placed within the Zoning Ordinance where they can be
enforced. The new ordinance standards could be added in Section 401.15.F.12 and be
enhanced to address larger, more effective landscape islands that will support larger
and healthier plantings. The following language is suggested:
14
Section 401.15.F.
12. Parking Lot Landscaping.
a. Parking areas shall be screened with a combination of landscape
materials, landform, and decorative fencing or walls sufficient to
screen parking cars on a year round basis while providing adequate
visibility for pedestrians.
b. Within off-street parking facilities with twenty five (25) or more stalls,
landscape islands, peninsulas, or rain gardens (biofiltration islands)
where needed for storm water treatment, shall be provided at a
minimum of three hundred sixty (360) square feet per twenty five (25)
surface stalls or fraction thereof.
c. Parking lot islands shall not be less than eight (8) c feet by eight
six (6) feet in size and peninsulas must be a minimum of eight (8)
sig--(6) feet wide. (The City Arborist, Lisa Danielson recommends an
island width of at least eight feet to support larger tree size).
d. Landscape islands shall be irrigated unless alternative stormwater
management techniques are employed.
e. All parking lot landscape design and plantings shall be approved by
the City Arborist as per Ordinance 1304 and Ordinance 1307 of the
City Code, the Landscape Guidelines for Developers, and the Design
Guidelines.
The standard for 360 square feet per 25 surface stalls comes from reviewing current
parking lots in Oak Park Heights. For example, one row of 25 stalls of parking at Kohl's
has two end landscape islands that are approximately three feet wide and 20 feet long,
for a total of 120 square feet. If the islands were eight feet wide, which would
accommodate more significant trees, the islands would be 320 square feet. If you add
another island in the middle to break up the pavement, the island's total would be 480
square feet. This would better address the heat island issue and make the parking lots
more attractive. Staff will continue to study this issue and will apply it to more examples
in Oak Park Heights, but it is a reasonable place to start the discussion.
CONCLUSION/RECOMMENDATION
The Planning Commission should review the draft changes to the parking and
landscaping requirements and discuss the impact on heat islands.
15
City of Oak Park Heights
Landscape Guidelines for Developers
Tree Preservation/Protection
If the property you are developing is over 1 acre in size and contains at least 5 significant trees—8 inches in trunk diameter(deciduous)
or 10 feet in height(evergreen)your project will fall under the City's Tree Protection Ordinance(Chapter 1307 of the City Code).
Tree Protection Ordinance 1307 requires: (a)A tree protection plan;(b)An inventory of existing significant trees;and may require(c)
Tree replacement for trees removed (either planted on site or cash in lieu of tree planting). Trees included in the landscape plan will
be used to offset any tree replacement requirement. A copy of Ordinance 1307 can be obtained from the City of Oak Park Heights
web page at www.cityofoakparkheights.com
Landscape Plan
Design:
Landscape designs should be attractive and easy to maintain. Planting spaces should be large enough so that trees and shrubs have
enough rooting space to attain a healthy maturity. Planting beds should be edged with professional grade black plastic edging, brick
or metal. Trees planted in sodded areas should be mulched with wood chips out several feet from the trunk and edging installed to
keep mulch in place. Planting beds may be mulched with landscape quality wood chips,shredded bark,or rock.
Plant Species:
Plants specified in the plan should be attractive,hardy to Zone 3 and tolerant or resistant to major insect and disease problems. Plants
native to Minnesota are preferred,though improved cultivars of native plants and proven cultivars of introduced species may also be
used. Where appropriate,trees,shrubs and perennials should be included in the landscape plan-either planted together in landscape
beds or separately. A "Plant Schedule" which lists the amount, common name, scientific (Latin) name and type of planting stock
(container, B&B,etc.)must be included as part of the landscape plan(example attached).See OPH "Design Guidelines"for suggested
plant species.
Size and Type of Planting Stock:
Minimum sizes for landscape plants for most sites are as follows:
Shrubs: 18-24 in.tall, potted
Ornamental Trees: 1.5 inches in diameter, B&B(Balled & Burlapped);6-7 feet tall, potted.
Shade Trees: 2.5 inches in diameter, B&B; 1.75 inches in diameter, potted.
Evergreen Trees: 6-8 feet tall, B&B
Boulevard Trees: (Those trees planted within the street right-of-way)must be shade(deciduous)trees,2.5 in.diameter B&B,
spaced 30-40 feet apart. If boulevard space is restricted, due to utilities (overhead or underground),
ornamental trees, such as flowering crabs, could be planted, spaced 20 feet apart. Evergreens are not
allowed on the boulevard.
Planting Specifications:
Attached is a sample Landscape Plan,"Plant Schedule"and"Planting Detail"(accepted planting procedures for shade trees,evergreen
trees,and shrubs). Plants are to be installed according to these specifications. The landscape plan and planting will not be approved
unless these procedures are used. A "Planting Detail" diagram for both trees and shrubs must be attached to any landscape plan
which is submitted.Submitted landscape plans for projects that fall under the City's Tree Protection Ordinance(Ord. 1307), must also
include tree replacement calculations.
Approvals&Inspections
Site Plan Review:
A meeting between City Staff and the Applicant to discuss plans which have been submitted. The Applicant will receive initial feedback
regarding the landscape plan at this meeting. If applicable,tree protection/replacement issues will also be discussed.
Plan Approval:
This typically occurs after the Site Plan Review meeting. The City Arborist will review the project and make recommendations as to
changes and specifications. The plan will receive final approval only after any suggested changes have been implemented and plans
have been re-submitted for Parks Commission(if applicable), Planning Commission,and City Council approval.
Inspections:
Landscaping is inspected by the City Arborist just after installation and also near the end of the guarantee period(typically 1-year after
installation). Inspections may also occur at time of installation to ensure that planting specifications are being adhered to and that
plant material is in good condition when planted.
Final Acceptance of Installation and Landscape Plants:
If specified planting procedures have been followed and plants are alive and in good condition at the end of the guarantee period,the
City Arborist will sign off on the landscape portion of the project.
Questions regarding landscape issues?
Contact:City Arborist Lisa Danielson @ 651.439.4439
Email:Idanielson@cityofoakparkheights.com
14168 Oak Park Blvd. N.,Oak Park Heights, MN 55082
Phone:651.439.4439 - Fax:651.439.0574
www.cityofoakparkheights.com
TREE CITY USA
Updated 10.03.2018
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CITY OF OAK PARK HEIGHTS
CITY COUNCIL & COMMISSIONS
MEETINGS & WORKSESSIONS
All meetings take place at City Hall unless otherwise noted
Thursday, February 9 6:00 p.m. Planning Commission Meeting
Tuesday, February 14 5:00 p.m. City Council Worksession
6:00 p.m. City Council Meeting
Monday, February 27 5:30 p.m. Parks and Trails Commission Meeting
Tuesday, February 28 6:00 p.m. City Council Meeting
Thursday, March 9 6:00 p.m. Planning Commission Meeting
Tuesday, March 14 6:00 p.m. City Council Meeting
Monday, March 20 5:30 p.m. Parks and Trails Commission Meeting
Tuesday, March 28 6:00 p.m. City Council Meeting
POLICY NOTE:Items in red are expected to be SOCIAL EVENTS in nature and not an official City Council meeting. No
official action or discussion may be undertaken by City Council Members who may attend such events. The City is listing
such events so as the public is generally aware that there may be occasions when City Council members may desire to
attend functions that are purely social-events.