HomeMy WebLinkAbout[07a] Zoning Ordinance Memo +z11 Planning Commission Agenda Item 7a
MEETING DATE: May 23, 2016
AGENDA ITEM: Zoning Ordinance Amendments
SUBMITTED BY: Community Development Department
STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Approve and/or provide input
PREVIOUS PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION: During your last meeting, amendments to the
zoning ordinance were presented, including the addition of a new zoning district titled Supportive Care
District, along with clean up language. Staff was also directed to add a provision to allow for a bonus
room for patio homes.
BACKGROUND INFORMATION: Staff has identified additional amendments as it was an
opportunity to review our ordinances that may need updating due to changes related to community needs,
ordinance intent and relevance. Changes to land use ordinances requires a public hearing and notice.
Therefore, a hearing notice was placed in the Newsleader and the proposed amendments were listed on
the home page of the City Website.
Logistically the Planning Commission will open the hearing to consider comments to any of the proposed
amendments and then close the public hearing for discussion amongst the Commissioners. Due to the
volume of changes the Commission should feel free to table discussion those that need additional
information. The time sensitive Ordinance is the R5 and of the changes staff would recommend the
Planning Commission recommend the City Council approve adoption.
The following highlights proposed amendments within the zoning ordinance:
Rules and Definitions
• Added and/or amended definitions for terms and uses that are addressed in other areas of the
ordinance, such as assisted living, church, comprehensive plan, conditional use permit,
conditional use, group day care home, day care group facility, home day care, fence, independent
living facility, medical and dental clinic, nursing home, patio home.
• Removed definitions for special use and incompatible use.
Enforcement/Violations and Penalties
• Added language under enforcement assigning the Community Development Director as the
Zoning Administrator. Relocated language related to civil action.
Variances and Appeals
• Establishes the City Council as the Board of Adjustment who will make the final decision on
appeals and variances after a review and recommendation by the Planning Commission. This is
how it is currently done so the amended language would follow current practice.
• Added language on process for an appeal.
• Removed certain variance language and added new language to be clearer and concise with
process.
Conditional Uses, Interim Uses, Amendments and Rezonings
• Removed reference to Special Use Permit and amended to Conditional Use to be consistent with
State Statute.
• Amended language related to process to be clearer but for all practical purposes there are no
substantial changes.
• Adding language on Conditions that may be required, such as limiting the height, size, or location
of buildings, designating operating hours and noise level.
• Added language under Interim Use related to Conditions, Compliance and Revocation, which
would be consistent with a Conditional Use.
• Added language requiring application for Interim Use Permit three weeks prior to the Planning
Commission meeting as a public hearing and allows adequate time for review.
Off-Street Parking
• Added parking for several uses that were not addressed and amended others. Added a provision
for proof of parking allowing an applicant to install less than requirement provided they show and
reserve space if found needed. This would be reviewed and approved by the City Council.
• Removed different size parking stalls and amended to 9 feet wide by 20 feet long and 9 feet wide
by 18 feet if there is an overhang provided. Aisle width would be reviewed by the Fire Chief
during the development/site plan review and would be based on what is required specific to that
use, height, etc.
Signs
• Amended no sign shall project more than three feet from two feet.
• Added R-5 under Multiple Family District standards.
General Performance Standards
• Cleaned up language to remove redundancies and to be clearer and consistent.
• Added language allowing a detached accessory structure to be 20 feet from the property line
versus 30 feet on a corner side yard.
• Amended language requiring garages at least 10 feet from public alley right of way versus 5 feet.
• Added standards for Carports.
• Added fencing requirements for pools, spas and hot tubs.
• Added minimum size for trees and shrubs.
• Added specific number of trees and shrubs required for multiple family(apartments), industrial
and commercial, except B-1 Central Business District.
o Trees: One tree for every 1,250 square feet of total building floor area or for every 100
feet of site perimeter, whichever is greater. A minimum of 25% of the trees required will
be coniferous.
o Understory Shrubs: One understory shrub for every 450 square feet of building or one
shrub for every 75 feet of site perimeter, whichever is greater.
o Added language for credit for existing trees.
• Added language requiring refuse in four sided enclosure constructed of brick, stone, decorative
concrete material or a material compatible with the principal building for industrial, commercial,
public/semi-public, and multiple family apartments.
• Added language requiring double frontage lots adjacent to collector or arterials to be screened
with landscaping.
• Added language require screening from automobile headlights when directed onto residential
windows. i.e.parking spaces.
• Added requirement of landscape buffer between higher density muti-family(apartments) adjacent
to lower density residential(single family, two-family).
• Added requirements for planting screens providing 80% screening at maturity and standards for a
screening fence.
• Added berms may be used for screening provided landscaping is added and it does not exceed a
3:1 slope.
• Added General Building and Performance Standards for residential dwellings.
• Relocated Development/Site Plan Review from each zoning district into the General Performance
Standards so it is in one area.
Establishment of Districts
• Added R-4 and R-5
Agriculture, R-1 Single Family, R-2 Two Family, R-3 Multiple Family, R-4 Townhouse/Patio, B-1
Central Business, B-2 Highway 75 Business, B-3 General Commercial, LI Light Industrial, and EE
Educational—Ecclesiastical Districts
• Changed Special Uses to Conditional Uses
• Removed Signage Section since addressed in Sign Ordinance
• Removed wetland regulation since addressed in Wetland Ordinance.
• Removed accessory structure section since addressed in General Performance Standards
Ordinance.
R-3 Multiple Family Residence
• Removed the requirement that more than 12 units shall be allowed pursuant to a PUD and
conditional use permit. Applicant would still be required to go through the development process
and meet city ordinances.
• Added rear yard adjacent to a lower density residential use be a minimum of 50 feet versus 40
feet to be consistent with side yard adjacent to a lower density residential use.
• Added accessory structures adjacent to a lower density residential use must be a minimum of 30
feet.
R-4 Townhouse/Patio Home Residential District
• Added allowance of bonus room above garage for patio homes.
R-5 Supportive Care District
• Added a new zoning district, which is consistent with the City's Comprehensive Plan. The
purpose of this district is to provide continuing housing (age in place) from independent to full
care and for high quality mixed use development, including medium and high density residential,
such as patio homes, townhomes, and other senior multi-family housing and limited commercial.
B-1 Central Business District
• Added building material standards, including brick, face brick, specially designed precast
concrete, wood, natural or cut stone, glass, material approved by the city council after a review
and recommendation by the Planning Commission. The building materials proposed are
consistent with the St. Joseph Revitalization, Design Standards Report. The Planning
Commission will continue to review and approve landscaping and building plans for new
construction and additions.
• Added roof material standards, including commercial grade asphalt shingles, wood shingles,
standing seam metal, slate, the or copper. The City Council may consider green roof options that
reduce stormwater runoff.
B-2 Highway 75 Business, B-3 General Business District
• Added roof material standards to include commercial grade asphalt shingles, wood shingles,
standing seam pre-finished architectural metal, slate, the or copper. Flat roofs would be exempt
from this requirement. These districts already have building wall requirements.
LI Light Industrial District
• Add landscaping strip of 60 feet for rear yard adjacent to residential. This would be consistent
with existing language for a side yard adjacent to residential.
• Added roof material standards to include commercial grade asphalt shingles, wood shingles,
standing seam pre-finished architectural metal, slate, the or copper. Flat roofs would be exempt
from this requirement. This district already has building wall requirements.
ATTACHMENTS:
Public Hearing Notice
Proposed Zoning Ordinance Amendments
St. Joseph Downtown Revitalization, Design Standards Report
REQUESTED PLANNING COMMISSION ACTION:
Option 1
Motion to recommend to the City Council Approval of Amendments to the Zoning Ordinance
Or
Option 2
Motion to recommend to the City Council Approval of the R-5 Supportive Care District
. �. CITY OF ST. OS�PH
1
WwW.cityof stjoseph.com
City of St.Joseph
Public Hearing
Zoning and Subdivision Ordinance Amendments
The St.Joseph Planning Commission will be conducting a public hearing on Monday May 23,
Administrator 2016 at 6:00 PM or as soon thereafter as the matter may be heard in the St.Joseph City Hall,
�udy Weyrens 25 College Avenue N for the purpose of amending Ordinance 504, Subdivision Regulations and
for the purpose of repealing and replacing Ordinance 502, Zoning Ordinance, repealing and
replacing Title And Contents Section 502.01, Purpose & Intent Section 502.02,Jurisdiction,
Mayor Application, Interpretation And Separability Section 502.03, Rules And Definitions Section
Rick Schulcz 502.04, Enforcement,Vio�ations And Penalties Section 502.05, Administration Section 502.07,
Non-Conformance Section 502.08, PUD—Planned Unit Development Overlay District Section
Councilors 502.09, Off-Street Parking Section 502.10, Signs Section 502.11, General Performance
Matc Killam Standards Section 502.12, Moving Of Buildings Section 502.13, Zoning District Boundaries And
Bob Loso General Provisions Section 502.25,Agricultural District Section 502.26, R-1: Single Family
Renee Symanietz Residential District Section 502.30, R-2:Two Family Residential District Section 502.34, R-3:
Dale DUick
Multiple Family Residential District Section 502.38, R-4:Townhouse/Patio Home Residentia)
District Section 502.42, B-1: Central Business District Section 502.46, B-2: Highway 75 Business
District Section 502.50, B-3: General Business District Section 502.54, L-1: Light Industrial
District Section 502.58. Adding R-5 Supportive Care District.The Supportive Care District is
intended to provide continuing housing from independent to full care and for mixed use
development. A copy of the proposed changes are available for review at City Hall.
All persons wishing to be heard will be heard and oral testimony will be limited to five minutes.
Written testimony may be mailed to: City of St.Joseph; PO Box 668; St.Joseph MN 56374.
Judy Weyrens
Administrator
Publish: May 13, 2016
zs College Avenue North • PO BoX 668 ' Saint �oseph, Minnesota 56374
Phone 3zo.363.7zoi Fax 3z.o.363.0342
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ORDINANCE 520502 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.04520.04-1
Section 520.04502.04: RULES AND DEFINITIONS
For purposes of this Ordinance words used in the singular number include the plural, and
the plural the singular. The present tense includes the past and future tenses and the future the
present; the word "shall" is mandatory, the word "may" is permissive; all measured distances
shall be to the nearest integral foot; whenever a word or term defined hereinafter appears in the
text of this Ordinance its meaning shall be construed as set forth in such definition thereof.
For the purpose of this Ordinance, certain words and terms are herein defined as follows:
Subd. 1: Accessory Building. A subordinate building or structure on the same lot or
attached to the main building, occupied by or devoted exclusively to an accessory use.
Subd. 2: Accessory Use. A use naturally and normally incidental to, subordinate to, and
auxiliary to the principal permitted use of the premises.
Subd. 3: Adult Entertainment Establishment. A commercial operation or establishment
which provides adult sexual entertainment, specifically including but not necessarily limited to
an adult arcade, adult bookstore, adult cabaret, adult motion picture theater, adult theater, or a
sexual encounter establishment as those terms are specifically defined in Section 502.15, Subd.
2(g) of this Ordinance.
Subd. 4: Alley. A public right-of-way usually twenty feet or less in width which
normally affords a secondary means of vehicular access to abutting property.
Subd. 5: Apartment. A room or suite of rooms located in one or two-family structure or
a multiple dwelling, which shall include a bath and kitchen accommodations intended or
designed for use as an independent residence by a single family or individual.
Subd. 6: Apartment Building. A multiple family dwelling originally designed and
constructed to accommodate three or more apartments, designed with more than one dwelling
unit connecting to a common corridor or entrance way, in contrast to single or two-family
dwellings converted for multiple family use or attached row dwelling (party wall type) as defined
herein.
Subd. 7: Assisted Living. A facility that provides daily assistance and long-term
residence for disabled or elderly individuals. This includes a combination of housing, supportive
services, personalized assistance and health care designed to respond to the individual needs of
those who need help with activities of daily living, such as dressing, grooming, bathing, etc.
Subd. 87: Automobile Wrecking or Junkyard. A place maintained for keeping, storing
or piling in commercial quantities, whether temporarily, irregularly, or continually; buying or
selling at retail or wholesale any old, used or second-hand material of any kind, including used
ORDINANCE 520502 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.04520.04-2
motor vehicles, machinery, and/or parts thereof, cloth, rugs, clothing, paper, rubbish, bottles,
rubber, iron or other metals or articles which from its worn condition render it practically useless
for the purpose for which it was made and which is commonly classed as junk. This shall
include a lot or yard for the keeping of unlicensed motor vehicles or the remains thereof for the
purpose of dismantling, sale of parts, sale as scrap, storage or abandonment. This shall not
prohibit the keeping of one unlicensed motor vehicle within a garage or other structure in
residential districts or two unlicensed motor vehicles not including farm implements within a
farm in the agricultural district.
Subd. 98: Basement/Cellar. A story having part but not more than one-half its height
above the average level of the adjoining finished grade.
Subd. 109: Billboard. A poster panel board, painted bulletin board or other
communication device [A sign] which is used to advertise products, goods and /or services
which are not exclusively related to the premises on which the sign is located.
Subd. 1110: Bed and Breakfast. An owner occupied single family residence that
provides overnight accommodations to a limited number of visitors for a charge, not to exceed a
stay of seven consecutive nights.
Subd. 1211: Boarding House or Rooming House. See Lodging House.
Subd. 1312: Building. Any structure, either temporary or permanent having a roof, and
used or built for the shelter or enclosure of any person, animal or chattel or property of any kind.
When separated by bearing walls without openings, each portion so separated shall be considered
a separate building.
Subd. 1413: Buildable Area. That part of the lot remaining after required yards have
been provided.
Subd. 1514: Building Principal. A building or structure in which is conducted the main
or principal use of the lot on which said building or structure is situated.
Subd. 1615: Building Height. The vertical distance measured from the average ground
level adjoining the building to the highest point on the roof surface if a flat roof, to the deck line
of mansard roofs, and to the mean height level between eaves and ridge of gable, hip and
gambrel roofs.
Subd. 1716: Building Setback Line. The front line of the building or the legally
established line which determines the location of the building with respect to the right-of-way
line.
Subd. 1817: Carport. A structure having a roof supported by columns but not otherwise
enclosed and which is permanently attached to a dwelling.
Subd. 1918: Church. A building, together with its accessory buildings and uses, where
persons regularly assemble for religious worship and which buildings and uses are maintained
ORDINANCE 520502 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.04520.04-3
and controlled by a religious body organized to sustain regular public worship Shall be as
defined by the Internal Revenue Service.
Subd. 2019: Clear-cutting. The removal of an entire stand of vegetation.
Subd. 21 Comprehensive Plan. The Comprehensive Plan of the City of St. Joseph.
Subd. 22: Conditional Use Permit. A permit specially and individually issued by the City
Council in accordance with procedures specified in this Code and following review and
recommendation by the Planning Commission, as a flexibility device to enable the City Council
to assign dimensions to a proposed use or conditions surrounding it after consideration of
adjacent uses and their functions and the special problems which the proposed use presents.
Subd. 2320: Conditional Use. A use, which because of unique characteristics, cannot be
classified as a permitted use in a particular district. After due consideration, in each case, of the
impact of such upon neighboring land and of the public desirability for the particular use at the
particular locations, a conditional use permit may be granted. special problems, requires
reasonable, special, unusual or extraordinary limitations particular to the use for the protection of
the public welfare and integrity of the St. Joseph Comprehensive Plan.
Subd. 24: Day Care Home, Group: Any residence or portion of a residence licensed by
the Department of Human Services under chapter 9502 for no more than 14 children at any one
time, and must meet Group R, Division 3 occupancy requirements.
Subd. 25: Day Care Group Facility: A public or private facility, which for gain or
otherwise regularly provides persons with care, training, supervision, habilitation, rehabilitation
or developmental guidance on a regular basis, for periods of less than 24 hours per day, in a
place other than the person’s own home for persons of school age or older.
Subd. 2621: Day Care- Home. A residence or portion of a residence licensed by the
Department of Human Services under chapter 9502 for no more than ten children at one time of
which no more than six are under school age, and must meet Group R, Division 3 occupancy
requirements. A family dwelling in which foster care, supervision and training for children is
provided during part of the day with no overnight accommodations and where children are
delivered and removed daily.
Subd. 2722: District. A section of the City of St. Joseph for which the regulations
governing the use of buildings and premises, the height of buildings, the size of yards, the
intensity of use are uniform.
Subd. 2823: Duplex, triplex and quad. A dwelling structure on a single lot having two,
three and four units, respectively, being attached by common walls and each unit equipped with
separate sleeping, cooking, eating, living and sanitation facilities.
Subd. 2924: Dwelling. A building or portion thereof, designed exclusively for a
residential occupancy, including one family, two family and multiple family dwellings but not
including hotels, motels and boarding house.
ORDINANCE 520502 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.04520.04-4
Subd. 3025: Dwelling, Attached. A dwelling unit which is joined to another unit or
building at one or more sides by a party wall or walls.
Subd. 3126: Dwelling, Detached. A dwelling unit which is entirely surrounded by open
space on the same lot.
Subd. 3227: Dwelling - Multiple. A building used or intended to be used as a dwelling
by three or more families, where each dwelling unit is divided by wall extending the full height
of the ceiling. Each unit is capable of individual use and maintenance without trespassing upon
adjoining properties, and utilities and service facilities are independently serviceable.
Subd. 3328: Dwelling - Single Family. A dwelling occupied by only one family and so
designed and arranged as to provide cooking and kitchen accommodations and sanitary facilities
for one family only.
Subd. 3429: Dwelling - Two Family. A dwelling so designed and arranged to provide
cooking and kitchen accommodations and sanitary facilities for occupancy by two families.
Subd. 3530: Easement. A temporary or permanent grant by a property owner for the use
of a strip or area of land for purposes including but not limited to the constructing and
maintaining of utilities, sanitary sewer, water mains, electric lines, telephone lines, storm sewer
or storm water drainageway, and gas lines.
Subd. 3631: Family.
a) A family is any number of persons living together in a room or rooms comprised
of a single housekeeping unit and related by blood, marriage, adoption, or any
unrelated person who resides therein as though a member of the family. Any
group of three persons not so related but inhabiting a single house shall, for the
purposes of this Ordinance, be considered to constitute one family.
b) With respect to any property validly licensed as a rental unit pursuant to Section
505.11 of the St. Joseph Code of Ordinances, as of October 15, 1990, the
definition of "family" which existed prior to October 15, 1990, shall continue to
apply. This prior definition had defined "family" as up to five unrelated persons.
The application of this prior definition to existing rental units shall be construed
as a non-conforming use as limited by Section 502.08 of the St. Joseph Code of
Ordinances and shall be transferable. A lapse or revocation of the rental license
for any such property shall be considered as a discontinuance of a non-
conforming use and the property will thereinafter be required to conform with the
definition of "family" as set forth in paragraph (a) above.
502.29, Subd. 31 amended 3/2004.
Subd. 3732: Farm. An area which is used for the growing of the usual farm products,
such as vegetables, fruit, trees, and grain and their storage.
ORDINANCE 520502 – ZONING ORDINANCE
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Subd. 3833: Farmers Market. Area used for the sale of produce grown by local and
regional producers.
Subd. 39: Fence: Any partition, structure, wall or gate erected as a dividing mark, barrier
or enclosure.
Subd. 4034: Flood. A temporary rise in stream flow or stage that results in inundation of
the area adjacent to the channel.
Subd. 4135: Floodplain. The channel or beds proper and areas adjoining a watercourse
which have been or hereafter may be covered by a regional flood. Floodplain areas within the
City shall encompass all areas designated as such on the Federal Emergency Management
Agency’s Special Flood Hazard Boundary Map.
Subd. 4236: Floodway. The channel of a watercourse, bed of a wetland or lake, and
those portions of the adjoining floodplains reasonably required to carry and discharge a regional
flood.
Subd. 4337: Floor Area Ratio. The numerical value obtained through dividing the gross
floor area of a building or buildings by the total area of the lot or parcel of land on which such
building or buildings are located.
Subd. 4438: Frontage. All the property on one side of a street between two intersecting
streets (crossing or terminating) measured along the line of the street, or if the street is dead
ended, then all the property abutting on one side between an intersecting street and the dead end
of the street.
Subd. 4539: Garage, Private. An accessory building designed or used for the storage of
not more than three power-driven vehicles owned and used by the occupants of the building to
which it is accessory.
Subd. 4640: Garage, Public. Any premises, except those described as a private garage,
used for the storage or care of power driven vehicles or where any such vehicles are equipped for
operation, repaired or kept for remuneration, hire or sale.
Subd. 4741: Gasoline Service Station. A building or structure designed or used for the
retail sale or supply of fuels, lubricants, air, water and other operating commodities for motor
vehicles, and including the customary space and facilities for the installation of such
commodities on or in such vehicles, but not including special facilities for the painting, major
repair or similar servicing thereof.
Subd. 4842: Grade, Street. The elevation of the established street in front of the building
measured at the center of such front. Where no such street grade has been established, the City
Engineer shall establish such street grade or its equivalent for the purpose of this Ordinance.
ORDINANCE 520502 – ZONING ORDINANCE
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Subd. 4943: Home Occupation. Any occupation or profession engaged in by the
occupant of a residential dwelling unit, which is clearly incidental and secondary to the
residential use of the premises and does not change the character of said premises, in accordance
with regulations specified within this Ordinance.
Subd. 5044: Hotel. A building in which lodging is provided and offered to the public for
compensation, and which is open to transient guests in contradistinction to a boarding house or
lodging house.
Subd. 5145: Hydric Soils. Soils that are saturated, flooded or ponded long enough during
the growing season to develop anaerobic conditions in the upper part.
Subd. 5246: Hydrophytic Vegetation. Macrophytic plant life growing in water, soil or on
substrata that is at least periodically deficient in oxygen as a result of excessive water content.
Subd. 5347: Impervious Surface. An artificial or natural surface through which water,
air or roots cannot penetrate, including but not limited to buildings, parking spaces, driveways,
sidewalks, patios, decks, porches, pools and sports courts.
Subd. 5449: Independent Living Facility. A residential complex containing dwellings
where the occupancy is limited to persons who are fifty-five (55) years of age or older; or, if two
(2) persons occupy a unit, at least one (1) must be fifty-five (55) years or older. Such facilities
may include common areas for meals and socializing, offer minimal convenience services, but
exclude institutional care such as medical or nursing care.
Subd. 5548: Institution. A building occupied by a non-profit corporation or a non-profit
establishment for public use.
Subd. 5649: Intensive vegetation clearing. The complete removal of trees or shrubs in a
contiguous patch, strip, row or block.
Subd. 5750: Interim Use. A use which requires an interim use permit. Interim Use
Permits are granted by the City Council for a specific period of time in accordance with
procedures specified in this Ordinance.
Subd. 5851: Kennel. Any place where three or more dogs over six months of age are
boarded, bred and/or offered for sale, except a veterinary clinic. Dog kennels shall be permitted
only in areas specifically zoned for such use.
Subd. 5952: Land Disturbing or Development Activities. Any change of the land surface
including removing vegetative cover, excavating filling, grading and the construction of any
structure.
Subd. 6053: Lodge. A building operated by a fraternal or veteran=s organization that is
qualified as tax exempt under the Internal Revenue Code, operated for the use of members and
guests while in the company of a member.
ORDINANCE 520502 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.04520.04-7
Subd. 6154: Lodging House Dormitories, Fraternities and Sorority Houses. A building
or place where lodging is provided (or which is equipped regularly to provide lodging) by
prearrangement for definite periods, for compensation, for three or more individuals, not open to
transient guests, in contradistinction to hotels open to transients. Lodging houses, dormitories,
fraternities, sorority houses, boarding houses and rooming houses shall only be permitted in R-3,
multiple dwelling districts, except within the boundaries of a college campus.
Subd. 6255: Lot. A parcel of land occupied or intended for occupancy by a use
permitted in this Ordinance, including one main building together with its accessory buildings,
the open spaces and parking spaces required by this Ordinance, and having its principal frontage
upon a street or upon an officially approved place.
Subd. 6356: Lot Area. The square footage contained within a particular parcel of real
property.
Subd. 6457: Lot, Buildable. A buildable lot is that square footage required by this
zoning Ordinance for a particular zone.
Subd. 6558: Lot, Corner. A lot situated at the intersection of two streets, the interior
angle of such intersection not exceeding 135 degrees.
Subd. 6659: Lot, Coverage. The part or percentage of the lot occupied by buildings or
structures, including accessory building structures.
Subd. 6760: Lot Depth. The mean horizontal distance between the front and rear lot
lines.
Subd. 6861: Lot, Double Frontage. A lot having a frontage on two non-intersecting
streets, as distinguished from a corner lot.
Subd. 6962: Lot Frontage. The front of a lot shall be for purposes of complying with this
Ordinance, that boundary abutting a public right-of-way having the least width.
Subd. 7063: Lot Line. A property line of any lot held in single or separate ownership;
except that where any portion of the lot extends into the abutting street or alley, the lot line shall
be deemed to be the street or alley right-of-way.
Subd. 7164: Lot of Record. A lot which was part of a subdivision, the map of which has
been recorded in the office of the Stearns County Recorder or a lot described by metes and
bounds, the deed to which has been recorded in the Office of the Stearns County Recorder prior
to the effective date of this Ordinance.
Subd. 7265: Lot Width. The horizontal distance between the side lot lines measured at
right angles to the lot and depth at the established front building line.
Subd. 7366: Manufacturing. Combining machinery, tools, power and labor to bring
material closer to a final state.
ORDINANCE 520502 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.04520.04-8
Subd. 7467: Manufacturing - Heavy. The manufacture, compounding, processing,
packaging, treatment or assembly of products and materials that may emit objectionable,
hazardous and/or offensive influences; including but not limited to: odors, material/byproduct
discharges, dust, glare, ash, smoke, vibration and noise beyond the lot on which the use is
located.
Subd. 7568: Manufacturing – Light. Uses which include the manufacture, compounding,
processing, packaging, treatment or assembly of products and materials provided such use will
not generate objectionable and/or offensive influences; including but not limited to: odors,
material/byproduct discharges, dust, glare, ash, smoke, vibration and noise beyond the lot on
which the use is located.
Subd. 7669: Manufactured Home. A structure, transportable in one or more sections,
which in the traveling mode is eight (8) body feet or more in width or forty (40) body feet or
more in length, or, when erected on site, is three hundred twenty (320) or more square feet, and
which is built on a permanent foundation when connected to the required utilities, and includes
the plumbing, heating, air conditioning and electrical systems contained therein; except that the
terms includes any structure which meets all the requirements with respect to which the
manufacturer voluntarily files a certification required by the City Administrator/Clerk and
complies with the standards established under this Ordinance and which meets the Manufactured
Home Builders Code as defined in Minnesota Statutes ' 327.32, Subd. 3.
Subd. 7770: Manufactured Home Park. Any site, lot, field or tract of land upon which
two or more occupied manufactured homes are located, either free of charge or for
compensation, and includes any building, structure, tent, vehicle or enclosure used or intended
for use as part of the equipment of the manufactured home park.
Subd. 78: Medical and Dental Clinic. A structure intended for providing medical and
dental examinations and service available to the public. This service is provided without
overnight care available.
Subd. 7971: Modular Home. A non-manufactured housing unit that is basically
fabricated at a central factory and transported to a building site where final installations are made
permanently affixing the module to the site.
Subd. 8072: Motel. See Hotel.
Subd. 8173: Motor Vehicle Wrecking, Junkyard, or Recycling Centers. A place
maintained for keeping, storing or piling in commercial quantities, whether temporarily,
irregularly, or continually; buying or selling at retail or wholesale any old, used or second-hand
material of any kind, including used motor vehicles, machinery, and/or parts thereof, cloth, rugs,
clothing, paper, rubbish, bottles, rubber, iron or other metals or articles which from its worn
condition render it practically useless for the purpose for which it was made and which is
commonly classed as junk. This shall include a lot or yard for the keeping of unlicensed motor
ORDINANCE 520502 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.04520.04-9
vehicles or the remains thereof for the purpose of dismantling, sale of parts, sale as scrap, storage
or abandonment. This shall not prohibit the keeping of one unlicensed motor vehicle within a
garage or other structure in residential districts or two unlicensed motor vehicles not including
farm implements within a farm in the agricultural.
Subd. 8274: Non-Conforming Lot. A lot which does not comply with the minimum lot
area or frontage requirements of the district in which it is located.
Subd. 8375: Non-Conforming Use of Land. Any use of a lot which does not conform to
the applicable use regulations of the district in which it is located.
Subd. 8476: Non-Conforming Use of Structure. A use of a structure which does not
conform to the applicable use regulations of the district in which it is located.
Subd. 8577: Nursing Home. A licensed home to provide care for the aged or infirmed
persons requiring or receiving nursing care, which includes care or treatment requiring technical
knowledge. The term nursing home also includes convalescent home.
Subd. 8677: Office Building. A building designed or used primarily for office purposes,
no part of which is used for manufacturing or for dwelling.
Subd. 8778: Ordinary High Water Level. The elevation of the boundary of public
waters, watercourses and wetlands delineating the highest water level which has been maintained
for a sufficient period of time to leave evidence upon the landscape, commonly that point where
the natural vegetation changes from predominantly aquatic to predominately terrestrial. For
watercourses, the ordinary high water level is the elevation of the top of the bank of the channel.
Subd. 8879: Parking Lot. Three or more parking spaces, along with the driveway
connecting the parking spaces to the street or alley and permitting satisfactory ingress and egress
of an automobile and the driving lane between or servicing the parking spaces.
Subd. 8980: Parking Space. A durably surfaced area enclosed in the main building, in an
accessory building or unenclosed, comprising an area of not less than 171 square feet, exclusive
of a durably surfaced drive-way connecting the parking space with a street or alley and
permitting satisfactory ingress and egress of an automobile.
Subd. 9081: Patio Home. A single family attached or detached unit and structure
constructed on a relatively small parcel of property consisting of a one level living area with the
ability to have a bonus room above the garage.
Subd. 9182: Permitted Use. A use which may be lawfully established in a particular
district or districts, provided it conforms with all requirements and performance standards (if
any) of such district.
Subd. 9283: Person. Any individual, corporation, firm, partnership, association,
organization or other group acting as a unit. It also includes any executor, administrator, trustee,
receiver or other representative appointed by law. Whenever the word "person" is used in any
ORDINANCE 520502 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.04520.04-10
section prescribing a penalty or fine, it shall include partners, associates, or members of a
corporation, who are responsible for the violation.
Subd. 9384: Planned Unit Development. A large lot or tract of land developed as a unit
rather than as individual development where in two or more buildings may be located in
relationship to each other rather than to lot lines or zoning district boundaries.
Subd. 9485: Principal Use. The main use of land or buildings as distinguished from
subordinate or accessory uses.
Subd. 9586: Property Owner. Any person, group of persons, association, corporation, or
any other legal entity having a freehold estate interest, leasehold interest extending for a term, or
having renewal options for a term in excess of one year, a dominant easement interest, or an
option to purchase any of the same, but not including owners of interest held for security
purposes only.
Subd. 9687: Public Waters. Any waters as defined in Minnesota Statutes, Section
105.37, subdivisions 14 and 15.
Subd. 9788: Recreational Vehicle. A vehicular or portable structure used for
amusement, vacation or recreational activities, including but not limited to travel trailers, motor
homes, camping trailers, boats, jet skis, ATV’s and snowmobiles.
Subd. 9889: Rooming House. See Lodging House.
Subd. 9990: Screening. The use of plant materials, fences or earthen berms to partially
conceal the separate land use from the surrounding land use.
Subd. 10091: Semi public use. The use of land by a private, nonprofit organization to
provide a public service that is ordinarily open to some person outside the regular constituency
of the organization.
Subd. 10192: Setback Line. The mean horizontal distance between the front street,
right-of-way line and the front line of the building or the allowable building line as defined by
the front yard regulations of this Ordinance.
Subd. 10293: Shore impact zone. Land located between the ordinary high water level of
a public water and a line parallel to it at a setback of 50 percent of the structure setback.
Subd. 10394: Shoreland. Land located within the following distances from public
waters: 1,000 feet from the ordinary high water level of a lake, pond or flowage; and 300 feet
from a river or stream, or the landward extent of a floodplain designated by ordinance on a river
or stream whichever is greater. The shoreland limits may be reduced whenever the waters
involved are bounded by topographic divides which extend landward from the waters for lesser
distances and when approved by the Commissioner.
ORDINANCE 520502 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.04520.04-11
Subd. 10495: Sign. A name, identification, description, display, illustration or device
which is affixed to or represented directly or indirectly upon a building, structure or land in view
of the general public and which directs attention to a product, place, activity, person, institution
or business.
Subd. 96: Special Use. A use, which because of unique characteristics, cannot be
classified as a permitted use in a particular district. Special use permits may be granted in
accordance with Section 502.07.03.
Subd. 10597: Stable. A building accommodating one or more horses.
Subd. 10698: Story. That portion of a building other than a basement/cellar, including
between the surface of any floor and the surface of the floor next above it or if there be no floor
above it, then the space between the floor and a ceiling next above it.
Subd. 10799: Story - Half. A space under a sloping roof which has the line of
intersection of roof decking and wall face not more than three feet above the top floor level and
in which space not more than 60% of the floor area is finished off for use. A half-story may be
used for occupancy only in conjunction with and by occupancy of the floor immediately below.
Subd. 108100: Street. All property dedicated or intended for public street, highway,
freeway or road-way purposes and subject to public easements therefore.
Subd. 109101: Street – Frontage. The proximity of a parcel of land to one or more
streets. An interior lot has one street frontage and a corner lot has two street frontages. For
purposes of addressing a building, the front shall be the street side in which the structure’s front
door faces. For setback regulations, both streets shall be considered frontages.
Subd. 110102: Structure. Anything constructed or erected, the use of which requires
permanent location on the ground or attached to something having a permanent location on the
ground, including but without limiting the generality of the foregoing advertising signs,
billboards, backstops for tennis courts and pergolas.
Subd. 111103: Structural Alterations. Any change in the supporting members of a
building such as bearing walls or partitions, columns, beams or girders or any substantial change
in the roof or exterior walls.
Subd. 112104: Townhouse and Condominium. Single family attached units and
structures housing three or more dwelling units contiguous to each other only by the share of one
common wall between each unit.
Subd. 113105: Use. The purpose for which land or buildings thereon are designed,
arranged or intended to be occupied or used, or for which they are occupied or maintained.
Subd. 114106: Use – Accessory. The use incidental or accessory to the principal use of
the lot or a building located on the same lot with a building but detached therefrom.
ORDINANCE 520502 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.04520.04-12
Subd. 107: Use – Incompatible. A use which is incapable of direct association with
other uses because it is contradictory, incongruent or discordant.
Subd. 108: Use – Special. A use either public or private, which, because of the unique
characteristics, cannot be properly classified as a permitted use in a particular district. After due
consideration each case, of the impact of such use upon a neighboring land, and of the public
need for the particular use at the particular location, such “ special use” may or may not be
granted.
Subd. 115109: Vacation. The act of relinquishing a recorded dedication or easement as
in a street right-of-way, utility easement, etc.
Subd. 115110: Variance. The waiving of specific literal provisions of the zoning
ordinance in instances where their strict enforcement would cause practical difficulties undue
hardship because of circumstances unique to the individual property under consideration. A
change in the allowable use within a district shall not be considered a variance.
Subd. 116111: Waterbody. A body of water (lake, pond) in a depression of land or
expanded part of a river or an enclosed basin that holds water and is surrounded by land.
Subd. 117112: Watercourse. A channel or depression through which water flows, such
as rivers, streams or creeks and may flow year around or intermittently.
Subd. 118113: Watershed. The area drained by the natural and artificial drainage
system, bounded peripherally by a bridge or stretch of high land dividing drainage areas.
Subd. 119114: Wetlands. The City adopts the definition of a Wetlands as contained in
Minn. Stat. ' 103G.005, Subd. 19. Designations of the Stearns County Environmental Services
office of wetlands shall be presumed as accurate when determining the location of wetlands.
Subd. 120115: Yard. An open space on the same lot with a building, unoccupied and
unobstructed by any portion of a structure from the ground upward, except as otherwise provided
herein. In measuring a yard for the purpose of determining the width of a side yard, the depth of
a front yard or the depth of a rear yard, the mean and horizontal distance between the lot line and
the main building shall be used.
Subd. 121116: Yard, Front. A yard extending across the front of the lot between the side
lot lines and lying between the front line of a lot and the nearest line of the building.
Subd. 122117: Yard, Rear. A yard extending across the full width of a lot and lying
between the rear line of a lot and the nearest line of the building.
Subd. 123118: Yard, Side. A yard between the side line of the lot and the nearest line of
the building and extending from the front line of a lot to the rear yard.
ORDINANCE 520502 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.04520.04-13
Subd. 124119: Zoning District. An area or areas within the limits of the City for which
the regulations and requirements governing use, lot and bulk of buildings and premises are
uniform.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.05-1
Section 52002.05: ENFORCEMENT/VIOLATIONS AND PENALTIES
Subd. 1: Enforcement. This Ordinance shall be administered by the Zoning
Administrator. The Community Development Director and/or his/her assigned shall be the
Zoning Administrator. The Zoning Administrator shall require that the application for a building
permit and the accompanying site plan contains all of the information necessary to ascertain
whether the proposed building complies with the provisions of this Ordinance. No building
permit shall be issued until the Zoning Administrator and/or his/her assigned has certified that
the proposed building or alteration complies with all provisions of this Ordinance. enforced by
the City Council. The City Administrator/Clerk may institute in the name of the City of St.
Joseph any appropriate action or proceedings against a violator as provided by law.
Subd. 2: Violations and Penalties. Any person who shall violate any of the provisions
hereof or who shall fail to comply with any of the provisions hereto or who shall make any false
statement in any document required to be submitted under the provisions hereof, shall be guilty
of a misdemeanor, and each day that a violation is permitted to exist shall constitute a separate
offense.
Subd. 3: Civil Action. In the event of a violation or threatened violation of this
Ordinance, the City Council may direct the City Administrator and/or his/her assigned and City
Attorney to institute appropriate action or proceeding to prevent, restrain, correct or abate such
violations or threatened violations, and it shall be the duty of the City Attorney to institute such
legal action.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-1
Section 520.06502.07: VARIANCES AND APPEALS ADMINISTRATION
Subd. 1: Board of Appeals and Adjustments.
a) Established. Board. The Board of Adjustment is hereby established as the City
Council and vested with such authority as is hereinafter provided, and as provided
by Minnesota Statutes section 462.357, Subdivision 6. Members of the City
Planning Commission shall serve as members of the Board of Appeals and
Adjustments for periods commensurate with their respective terms of office as
members of the City Planning Commission. The City Council shall appoint the
City Administrator/Clerk of the Board as the Secretary.
b) Procedure. Four (4) members of the Board constitute a quorum and a majority of
all the members of the Board is necessary for any decision of the Board. If only
four members of the Board are present, a unanimous vote is required. The
Chairman of the Planning Commission shall be the Chairman of the Board.
Subject to the provisions of this Ordinance, the Board may adopt rules necessary
to the conduct of its affairs. The Chairman or, in his absence, the acting
Chairman, may administer oaths to witnesses. All meetings shall be opened to the
public. The Board shall keep minutes of its proceedings, showing the vote of
each member upon each question, or if absent or failing to vote, indicating such
fact. The Board shall keep records of its examinations and other official actions.
b)c) Powers and Duties of Board. The City Council shall have the following powers:
1. To grant variances, that is, to vary and modify the strict application of any
regulations of any of the regulations or provisions contained in this Title in
cases in which there are practical difficulties in the way of such strict
applications. No variance or modification of the uses permitted within a
district shall be allowed, except as an official amendment of this
Ordinance. The Board shall have the power and duty of hearing and
deciding, subject to approval by the City Council as herein provided,
appeals or requests in the following cases:
1. To hear and determine appeals as to the exact boundaries of zoning
districts.
2. To interpret this Ordinance.
3. To hear and decide appeals where it is alleged that there is an error in any
order, requirement, decision or determination made by an administrative
official charged with enforcing this Ordinance.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-2
c) Appeal Procedures. An appeal shall only be applicable to an administrative
permit, order, requirement or interpretation on intent of provisions of this
Ordinance. Opinions and evaluations as they pertain to the impact or result of a
request are not subject to the appeal procedure.
1. An appeal from an administrative action shall be filed by the property
owner or their agent with the Zoning Administrator within ten (10) after the
making of the order, requirement, or interpretation being appealed.
2. The property owner or their agent shall file with the Zoning Administrator
an application for appeal stating the specific grounds upon which the appeal is
made. Said application shall be accompanied by a fee as established by the
City Council. In cases where the application is judged incomplete, the Zoning
Administrator shall notify the applicant, in writing, within ten (10) days of the
date of submission.
3. An appeal stays all proceedings and furtherance of the action being
appealed unless it is certified to the City Council, after the notice of appeal is
filed, that by reasons stated in the certificate a stay would cause imminent
peril to life and property.
4. The Zoning Administrator shall instruct the appropriate staff persons to
prepare technical reports when appropriate and shall provide general
assistance in preparing a recommendation on the action to the City Council.
5. The City Council shall consider the application for appeal at a public
meeting after a review and recommendation by the Planning Commission and
consider testimony of the property owner and City staff.
6. Pursuant to Minnesota Statutes 15.99, the City Council shall make a
decision in accordance with the timeline described for variances.
7. The Zoning Administrator shall serve a copy of the final order of the City
Council upon the applicant by mail.
A. Appeals where it is alleged that there is an error in any order,
requirement, decision, or determination made by an administrative
officer in the enforcement of this Ordinance.
B. Requests for variances from the literal provisions of this Ordinance
in instances where their strict enforcement would cause undue
hardship because of circumstances unique to the individual
property under consideration.
2. Planning Commission Duties Distinguished. The Planning Commission
shall have the power to consider special use permit applications and
applications for amendments to the zoning ordinances or rezoning.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-3
3. Review of Appeals Decisions. No permit shall be issued under the
provisions of this section unless and until a decision of the board, as
aforesaid, approving the same, is approved and confirmed by the City
Council. In reporting its decision to the City Council, the board shall
report its findings with respect thereto and all facts in connection
therewith, and shall specifically and fully set forth any adjustment or
variance granted and the conditions designated. Upon receipt of such
report, the Council either shall by resolution approve and confirm the
decision, whereupon the permit as applied for may be issued, or shall
refuse to approve and confirm the decision. In all cases in which
adjustments or variances are granted under the provisions of this section,
the Board and Council shall require such evidence and guarantees as it
may deem necessary to insure compliance with the conditions designated
in connection therewith.
Subd. 2: Variances.
a) Purpose. The variance process is intended to provide limited relief from the strict
requirements of this Ordinance in those cases where strict application of a particular
requirement will create practical difficulties due to circumstances unique to the
individual property under consideration. It is not intended that variance be granted to
allow a use not permitted by the underlying zoning district, nor to merely remove
inconveniences or financial burdens that the requirements of this Ordinance may
impose on property owners in general.
a)b) Criteria. A variance shall only be permitted if all of the following facts and
conditions exists: Administration. A variance may be granted to allow a property
owner to deviate from the specific development standards applicable to a particular
district. A variance shall not be granted to allow a use that is not otherwise permitted
in the district involved.
In granting a variance the Board, or the Council in reviewing the Board's decision,
may prescribe appropriate conditions in conformity with this Ordinance to protect
properties and the health and safety of persons residing or working in the
neighborhood. In recommending any adjustment or variance under the provision of
this Section, the Board of Zoning Adjustment shall designate such conditions in
connection therewith as well, in its opinion, secure substantially the objectives of the
regulation to which the adjustment or variance is granted, as to light, air and the
public health, safety, comfort, convenience and general welfare.
Section 52.07, Subd. 2(a) amended 11/11
When such conditions are made part of the terms under which the variance is granted,
violation of the conditions is a violation of this Ordinance. A variance shall not be
granted by the Board, or by the Council upon review, unless they find the following
facts:
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-4
1. The variance requested is consistent with the adopted St. Joseph
Comprehensive Plan.
2. The variance requested is in harmony harmonious with the general
purposes and intent of the governing Zoning District this Ordinance.
3. The applicant establishes that there are ‘practical difficulties’ in
complying with the zoning ordinance. Practical difficulties as used in
connection with the granting of a variance shall mean:
a. The property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable
manner not permitted by the zoning ordinance.
b. The plight of the landowner is due to the circumstances unique to the
property not created by the landowner
c. The variance, if granted will not alter the essential character of the
locality.
4. Economic considerations alone shall not constitute practical difficulties
under the terms of this Ordinance.
5. Practical difficulties shall include, but are not limited to, inadequate access
to direct sunlight for solar energy systems.
6. Variances shall be granted for earth sheltered construction as defined in
MN Statute 216C.06, Subd. 14 as may be amended, when in harmony with
the zoning ordinance.
7. Additional Conditions: If granting a variance, the City Council may
impose conditions to ensure compliance with this Ordinance and to protect
adjacent properties.
Section 52.07, Subd. 2 (a) 1-7 amended 11/11
cb) Variance Procedure. Application for a variance or appeal under the provisions of
this section shall be made to the Zoning Administrator three (3) weeks prior to the
next regularly scheduled Planning Commission meeting in order to be considered
at that meeting, and shall be accompanied by the required fees as set by the City
Council. City Administrator/Clerk in the form of a written application, called a
Development Review Application. The Development Review Application must
be submitted three weeks prior to a variance request.
1. Information Required. The Zoning Administrator or Planning Commission
may, at their option, require all or part of the following information prior
to the public hearing on a variance request:
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-5
a) Description of site (legal description).
b) Site plan drawn at scale showing parcel and building dimensions.
c) Location of all buildings and their square footage.
d) Curb cuts, driveways, access roads, parking spaces, off-street loading
areas and sidewalks.
e) Landscaping and screening plans.
f) Drainage plan.
g) Sanitary sewer and water plans with estimated use per day.
h) Soil type.
i) Any additional data reasonably required by the Zoning Administrator
or Planning Commission.
2. Planning Commission Review. The Zoning Administrator shall forward
the request to the Planning Commission who will hold a public hearing on
the variance request and make a recommendation to the City Council.
3. Public Hearing and Notice Requirements. The City Administrator/Clerk
shall review all Development Review Applications and upon completion
of the requirements of the application shall schedule a public hearing. The
City Administrator/Clerk shall have ten (10) days to review the application
for completeness. Written Nnotices of such for the public hearing shall be
mailed not less than ten (10) days nor more than thirty (30) days to
property owners within 350 feet of the affected parcel. as determined by
the City Administrator/Clerk. Such notice shall also be published in the
official newspaper within the above time period. Failure of a property
owner to receive said notice shall not invalidate any such proceedings.
2. Voting By City Council. The City Council will, by resolution, either grant
or deny the variance. Approval of Aa variance of this Zoning Ordinance
shall be by majority vote of the full City Council. Board of Appeals and
Adjustments.
3. Written Findings. The City Council will issue written findings stating the
reasons for its decision and any conditions imposed, and serve a copy of
its decision upon the applicant by mail within ten (10) days after its
decision. If the Board of Appeals and Adjustments determines that the
application be granted, the Board of Appeals and Adjustments shall make
its recommendation to the City Council within thirty (30) days of such
determination. Upon receipt of such report, the City Council shall either
by resolution approve and confirm the decision, whereupon the permit as
applied for may be issued, or shall refuse to approve and confirm the
decision. If the City Council acts on an application granted by the Board
of Appeals and Adjustments, the City Council shall make its order
deciding the matter and serve a copy of such order upon the appellant or
the petitioner by mail within ten (10) days after its decision.
4. If the Board of Appeals and Adjustments denies the application the Board
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-6
shall make its order and serve a copy of such order upon the appellant or
petitioner by mail within ten (10) days after its decision. The appellant or
petitioner may appeal the decision of the Board of Appeals and
Adjustments to the City Council by filing a written request of appeal with
the City Administrator/Clerk ten (10) days after receipt of the written
denial from the Board of Appeals and Adjustments. The City Council
shall review the decision of the Board of Appeals and Adjustments within
thirty (30) days after notice of said appeal. The City Council shall make
its order deciding the matter and serve a copy of such order upon the
appellant or the petitioner by mail within ten (10) days after its decision.
d) Recording. A certified copy of every variance to abstract or registered property,
including the property’s legal description, must be filed with the Stearns County
Recorder or Registrar of Titles.
e) c) Successive Applications. Whenever an application for a variance has been
considered and denied by the City Council, a similar application for a variance
affecting substantially the same property shall not be considered again by the
Planning Commission or City Council for at least one (1) year. six (6) months
from the date of its denial, unless a decision to reconsider such matter is made by
not less than four-fifths (4/5) vote of the full City Council. The City Council may
permit a new application if, in its opinion, new evidence or a change in
circumstances warrant reconsideration.
fd) Lapse of Variance. If within one (l) year after granting a variance the work
permitted is not started such a variance shall become null and void unless a
petition for an extension has been approved by the City Council.
Section 520.07 CONDITIONAL USES, INTERIM USES, AMENDMENTS AND
REZONINGS
Subd. 13: Special Conditional Use Permit.
a) Purpose and Scope. The purpose of this Section of the Zoning Ordinance is to
provide the Planning Commission and City Council with a reasonable degree of
discretion in determining the suitability of certain designated uses upon the
general welfare and public safety. This is accomplished through a Conditional
Use Permit, which may be granted by the City Council for uses designated within
a district as permitted Conditional Uses when such uses are in harmony with both
the zoning district in which it will be located and the objectives of the
comprehensive plan.
b) Issuance. Special use permits may be issued for any of the following:
1. Any of the uses or purposes for which such permits are required or
permitted by the provisions of this Ordinance.
2. Public utility or public service uses or public building in any district when
found to be necessary for the public health, safety, convenience or welfare.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-7
3. To classify as a conforming use any non-conforming institutional use
existing in any district at the time of the establishment of such district.
b)c) Application. Applications for Special a Conditional Use Permits and the required
fees shall be submitted the Zoning Administrator. City Administrator/Clerk. The
application shall be accompanied by a site plan containing such information as is
necessary to show compliance with this Ordinance, including but not limited to:
1. Description of site (legal description).
2. Site plan drawn at scale showing parcel and building dimensions, area and
setbacks.
3. Location of all existing and proposed buildings and their square footage,
and the location of easements.
4. Curb cuts, driveways, access roads, parking spaces, off-street loading
areas and sidewalks.
5. Landscaping and screening plans.
6. Drainage and erosion control plan with pertinent elevations.
7. Sanitary sewer and water plan with estimated use per day.
8. Soil type, the location of wetlands as defined by Minnesota Statute
1036.005, Subd. 19, or absence thereof as verified by a statement from the
Stearns County Environmental Services Office.
9. Any additional written or graphic data reasonably required by the Zoning
Administrator City Administrator/Clerk or the Planning Commission.
10. Proof that the Applicant is the owner of the parcel in question.
c)d) Procedure. Completed applications must be submitted to the Zoning
Administrator three (3) weeks before the next regularly scheduled Planning
Commission meeting in order to be considered at that meeting. The City
Administrator/Clerk shall forward said application to the Planning Commission
for consideration at their next regular meeting.
1. Planning Commission Review. The Zoning Administrator shall forward the
request to the Planning Commission who will hold a public hearing on the
Conditional Use Permit and make a recommendation to the City Council.
2.1. Public Hearing and Notice Requirements. The City Administrator/Clerk
shall review all Development Review Applications and upon verification
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-8
that the Application is complete and meets the requirements of the
Ordinance, the City Administrator/Clerk shall schedule a public hearing.
The City Administrator/Clerk shall complete the review process within ten
(10) days of receipt of the Application. Notice of such hearing shall be
published in accordance with State Law and notice shall be published at
least once in the official paper of the City and mailed to individual
properties within three hundred fifty (350) feet of the parcel included in
the request not less than ten (10) days nor more than thirty (30) days prior
to the date of said hearing. Failure of a property owner to receive said
notice shall not invalidate any such proceedings.
2. The Planning Commission shall consider possible adverse effects of the
proposed special use and what additional requirements may be necessary
to reduce any adverse effects, and shall make a recommendation to the
City Council within the guidelines as mandated by State Law.
3. The City Council shall act upon the report and recommendation from the
Planning Commission within the guidelines as mandated by State Law.
Upon receiving the report and recommendation from the Planning
Commission, the City Council shall have the option of holding a public
hearing if necessary and may impose any conditions deemed necessary to
protect the public health, safety and welfare of the community. Approval
of a special conditional use permit shall require passage by a majority vote
of the full City Council.
d)e) Findings. Standards. The City Council must make the following findings when
granting a conditional use permit: The Planning Commission shall recommend a
special use permit and the Council shall order the issuance of such permit if the
application conforms to the specific standards set forth below, as it would apply to
the particular use at the proposed location:
1. Will not be detrimental to or endanger the public health, safety, morals,
comfort, convenience or general welfare of the neighborhood or the City.
2. Will be harmonious with the general and applicable specific objectives of
the comprehensive plan of the City and this Ordinance.
3. Will be designed, constructed, operated and maintained so as to be
harmonious and appropriate in appearance with the existing or intended
character of the general vicinity and will not change the essential character
of that area.
4. Will not be hazardous or disturbing to existing of future neighboring uses.
5. Will be served adequately by essential public facilities and services,
including utilities, streets, police and fire protection, drainage structures,
refuse disposal, water and sewer systems, and schools, and other necessary
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-9
facilities.
6. Will not create excessive additional requirements at public cost for public
facilities and services and will not be detrimental to the economic welfare
of the community.
7. Will not involve uses, activities, processes, materials, equipment and
conditions of operation that will be detrimental to any persons, property,
or the general welfare because of excessive production of traffic, noise,
smoke, fumes, glare or odors.
8. Will have vehicular approaches to the property which are so designed as
not to create traffic congestion or an interference with traffic or
surrounding public thoroughfares.
9. Will have adequate facilities to provide sufficient off-street parking and
loading space to serve the proposed use.
10. Will not result in the destruction, loss or damage of a natural, scenic, or
historic feature of major importance.
11. That soil conditions are adequate to accommodate the proposed use.
e)f) Denial for Non-Compliance. If the Planning Commission recommends denial of
a special conditional use permit or the Council orders such denial, it shall include
in its recommendations or determination findings as to the ways in which the
proposed use does not comply with the findings standards required by this
Ordinance.
f)g) Appeals. All decisions by the Council involving a special conditional use permit
shall be final except that an aggrieved person or persons shall have the right to
file an appeal within thirty (30) days of the decision with the Stearns County
District Court.
g)h) Conditions. In the granting of its approval, recommending or approving any
special use permit, the Planning Commission and the City Council may impose
conditions regarding the location, character and other features of the proposed
building, structure or use as it may deem advisable in the furtherance of the
purposes of this Ordinance. which are considered necessary to meet the standards
of this Ordinance and to protect the best interests of the surrounding area or the
City as a whole. Violation of any such condition is a violation of this Ordinance.
These conditions may include but are not limited to the following:
1. Controlling the location and number of vehicle access points Ingress and
egress to property and proposed structures thereon with particular
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-10
reference to vehicle and pedestrian safety and convenience, traffic flow
and control, and access in case of fire or other catastrophe.
2. Off-street parking and loading areas where required and the economic
effect, noise, glare, or odor of the special use on nearby property.
3. Refuse and service areas.
4. Utilities with reference to location, availability and compatibility.
25. Requiring Ddiking, berming, fencing, screening, landscaping or other
facilities to protect adjacent or nearby property.
36. Limiting the number, size, location or lighting of Ssigns, if any, and
proposed exterior lighting with reference to glare, traffic safety, economic
effect and compatibility and harmony with properties in the district.
47. Designating sites for Required yards and other open space.
8. General compatibility with adjacent and other property in the district.
5. Increasing the required lot size or yard dimensions.
6. Limiting the height, size, number or location of buildings.
7. Designating operating hours and noise levels.
8. Any other condition the Planning Commission or City Council deems
necessary to protect the public interest.
h)i) Successive Applications. Whenever an application for a special conditional use
permit has been considered and denied by the City Council, a similar application
for a special conditional use permit affecting substantially the same property shall
not be considered again by the Planning Commission or City Council for at least
one (1) year six (6) months from the date of its denial., unless a decision to
reconsider such matter is made by not less than four-fifths (4/5) vote of the full
City Council. The City Council may permit a new application; if in the opinion of
the City Council, new evidence or a change of circumstances warrant it.
i)j) Expiration. If substantial construction has not taken place within one (l) year after
the date of granting a special conditional use permit the use permitted has not
started, then the permit is null and void, unless the City Council has approved a
petition for an extension. Conditional Use Permits expire if the authorized use
ceases for any reason for more than one (1) year. except that, on application, the
Council, after receiving the recommendation of the Planning Commission, may
extend the permit for an additional period not to exceed one (l) year. A special
use permit authorizes only the conditional use specified in the permit and expires
if, for any reason, the authorized use ceases for more than one (l) year.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-11
j) Compliance.
1) Duration of Permit. Any use permitted under the terms of any conditional use
permit shall be established and conducted with the terms of such permit and of
any conditions designated in connection therewith, and the conditional use permit
shall remain in effect only so long as the terms and conditions agreed upon are
observed.
2) Revocation. The City Council shall revoke a conditional use permit when it
determines that the terms and conditions of the permit as issued are no longer
being complied with. A certified copy of an order of the City revoking the
conditional use permit shall be filed with County Recorder for record.
Subd. 34. Interim Use Permit.
a) Purpose. The purpose and intent of allowing interim uses is:
1. To allow a use for a limited period of time that reasonably utilizes the
property in the manner not permitted in the applicable zoning district.
2. To allow a use that is presently acceptable but that, with anticipated
development, may not be acceptable in the future.
b) Application, Public Hearing, Notice and Procedure. The application, public
notice and procedure requirements for interim use permits shall be the same as
those for Special Conditional Use Permits as provided in Section 502.7, Subd. 3
of this Ordinance.
c) Findings Standards. The Planning Commission shall recommend an interim use
permit and the Council shall issue such interim use permits only if it finds that
such use at the proposed location:
1. Meets the standards findings of a special conditional use permit set forth
in Section 502.7, Subd 3, of this Ordinance.
2. Conforms to the zoning regulations, performance standards and other
requirements of this Ordinance.
3. Is allowed as an interim use in the applicable zoning district.
4. Will terminate upon a tangible date or event specified in the resolution
approving said interim use permit.
5. Will not impose, by agreement, additional costs on the public if it is
necessary for the public to take the property in the future.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-12
6. Will be subjected to, by agreement with the owner, any conditions that the
City Council has deemed appropriate for permission of the use, including
a condition that the owner will provide an appropriate financial surety to
cover the cost of removing the interim use and any interim structures upon
the expiration of the interim use permit.
d) Termination. An interim use permit shall terminate upon the occurrence of any of
the following events; whichever first occurs:
1. The date specified in the permit;
2. A violation of the conditions under which the permit was issued; or
3. A change in the City’s zoning regulations which render the use
nonconforming.
4. The permit is not utilized for a period of one (1) year from the date issued.
e) Successive Applications. Whenever an application for an interim use permit has
been considered and denied by the City Council, a similar application for an
interim use permit affecting substantially the same property shall not be
considered again by the Planning Commission or City Council for at least one (1)
year six (6) months from the date of its denial, unless a decision to reconsider
such matter is made by not less than four-fifths (4/5) vote of the full City
Council.
f) Appeals. All decisions by the Council involving an interim use permit request
shall be final except that an aggrieved person or persons shall have the right to
file an appeal within thirty (30) days of the decision with the Stearns County
District Court.”
g) Conditions. In granting approval of the interim use, the City Council may impose
such conditions regarding the location, character and other features of the
proposed building, structure or use as it may deem advisable in the furtherance of
the purposes of this Ordinance.
h) Compliance.
1) Duration of Permit. Any use permitted under the terms of any interim use
permit shall be established and conducted with the terms of such permit and of
any conditions designated in connection therewith, and the interim use permit
shall remain in effect only so long as the terms and conditions agreed upon are
observed and/or until the specified termination date/event occur.
2) Revocation. The City Council shall revoke an interim use permit when it
determines that the terms and conditions of the permit as issued are no longer
being complied with. A certified copy of an order of the City revoking the interim
use permit shall be filed with County Recorder for record.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-13
Subd. 35. Text Amendments and Rezoning of Parcels Depicted on the Official Zoning
Map.
a) General. This Ordinance, which includes the official zoning map, may be
amended by following the procedure specified in this section.
b) Initiation/Application. An amendment may be initiated by the following
procedures:
1. Upon the initiative of the City Council or the Planning Commission, or
2. By petition of fifty percent (50%) or greater of the property owners
affected by the proposed amendment and fifty percent (50%) of those
property owners within three hundred fifty (350) feet of the proposed
change. If a property owner initiates a rezoning request the owner shall
provide a boundary survey and preliminary building and site development
plans prior to consideration of the request.
3. If the proposed rezoning request is consistent with the proposed future
land use identified in the City’s Comprehensive Plan, an owner may
petition for the rezoning without signature of 50% of the affected property
owners within 350 feet. If a property owner initiates a rezoning request
the owner shall provide a boundary survey and preliminary building and
site development plans prior to consideration of the request.
4. A petition, when filed with the Zoning Administrator, shall be
accompanied by the fee established by the City Council in order to defray
the expenses incurred by advertising, public hearing, etc. In order for the
complete petition to be heard at the next regularly scheduled Planning
Commission meeting, it must be received by the Zoning Administrator
three (3) weeks before that meeting.
c) Action by Planning Commission.
1. An amendment not initiated by the Planning Commission shall be referred
to the Commission for study and report, and may not be acted upon by the
City Council prior to the recommendation of the Planning Commission.
The Zoning Administrator will review the proposed amendment and
provide the Planning Commission with a staff report. the Council shall
not act on the amendment until it has received the recommendation of the
Planning Commission or until sixty (60) days have elapsed from the date
of reference of the amendment without a report by the Planning
Commission.
2. Before any amendment is adopted, tThe Planning Commission shall hold
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-14
at least one (l) public hearing on any petition for an amendment or
rezoning after notice of the time and place of such hearing has been
published in accordance with State Law. The City will publish notice of
the pubic hearing in the City’s official newspaper at least ten (10) days
before the public hearing and not more than thirty (30) days. The City will
also mail notice of the public hearing to individual property owners within
three hundred fifty (350) feet of the parcel included in the request at least
ten (10) days before the public hearing and not more than thirty (30) days.
thereon after a notice of the hearing has been published in the official
newspaper at least ten (10) days and no more than thirty (30) days prior to
the hearing. When an amendment involves changes in district boundaries
affecting an area of five (5) acres or less, a similar notice shall be mailed
at least ten (10) days and no more than thirty (30) days before the day of
the hearing to each owner of affected property situated wholly or partly
within three hundred fifty (350) feet of the property to which the
amendment relates.
3. The City Council shall not rezone any land or area in any zoning district
without having first referred it to the Planning Commission for
recommendation. Any other proposed amendment to this Ordinance shall
be referred to the Planning Commission. Following the hearing the
Planning Commission shall make a report of its findings and, unless the
amendment has been initiated by the Commission and the Commission
determines not to recommend it to the Council, it shall file a copy with the
City Administrator/Clerk within fourteen (14) days of the meeting at
which the date of the hearing was set. When the amendment has not been
initiated by the Planning Commission, the report shall, in any event, be
filed not later than sixty (60) days from the date of reference of the
amendment to the Commission. Failure of the Planning Commission so to
report on an amendment not initiated by it is deemed to be approval by the
Commission of the amendment.
d) Action by City Council.
1. Upon the filing of such report, or upon the failure of the Planning
Commission to file such a report within the time prescribed by Section
502.07; Subd. 5 c) 3. on an amendment proposed by petition or by the
Council, tThe City Council shall hold such public hearings as it deems
advisable. After the conclusion of the hearings, if any, tThe City Council
shall review the Planning Commission’s recommendation and any other
additional testimony and material and shall may adopt or deny the
proposed rezoning or amendment or any part of it as the City Council
thereof in such form as it deems advisable. The amendment shall be
effective only if two-thirds (2/3) of all members of the Council concur in
its passage.
2. If the City Council approves a rezoning request, the City shall record the
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-15
amendment at the Office of the County Recorder at the applicant’s
expense.
3. The City Council shall amend its Official Zoning Map to reflect the
rezoning.
Subd. 6. Fees and Contents of Petitions for Amendments, Appeals, Adjustments, Special
Use Permits and Variances.
a) Payment Required. Any person filing a petition requesting an amendment,
appeal, adjustment, special use permit or variance shall pay a fee according to the
schedule established by the City Council.
b) Amount. Fees payable under this section for an amendment or rezoning, appeal,
special use permit, or variance shall be in an amount as established by resolution
of the City Council. The fee is payable at the time of filing a petition and is not
refundable. In addition to the above fees and in the event the City incurs
professional fees, either legal, engineering or professional planners, or any other
cost, including but not limited to, postage and publication expenses, the applicants
shall reimburse the City for those fees, and the City officials may require a
deposit for these fees prior to the final hearing on the application.
c) Contents of Petition. The petition shall give the street address of the land as to
which the petition is made, contain a legal description thereof, state the mailing
address of the owner, and clearly describe the structure to be built or altered if the
petition is granted, or if the petition is for a change in any regulations of this
Ordinance, it shall state the change and the reasons therefore. The petition shall
also contain any other information which is required by other Sections of this
Ordinance. The Planning Commission may require the petitioner to submit a
certificate by a registered land surveyor verifying the front, rear and side-yard
setbacks of all buildings and structures situated on or adjacent to the property
described in the petition.
e) d) Successive Applications. No application of a property owner for an
amendment or rezoning will be considered within the one (1) year period following a
denial of such request. The City Council may permit a new application, if in the opinion
of the City Council, new evidence or a change or circumstances warrant it. Whenever an
application for an amendment has been considered and denied by the City Council, a
similar application for an amendment affecting substantially the same property shall not
be considered again by the Planning Commission or City Council for at least six (6)
months from the date of its denial, unless a decision to reconsider such matter is made by
not less than four-fifths (4/5) vote of the full City Council.”
f) Appeal. A petitioner may appeal the City Council’s decision within 30 days of the
decision to the Stearns County District Court as provided by law.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.07-16
g) Recording. The City will record all Ordinances amending the Zoning Ordinance
or rezoning any property. The Zoning Administrator will revise the City’s Official
Zoning Map when property within the City is rezoned.
Subd. 7. General Requirements for Petitions for Amendments, Appeals, Adjustments,
Special Use Permits and Variances.
Any person filing a petition requesting an amendment, appeal, adjustment, special use
permit or variance shall meet the general requirements for City approvals under Section 104.06
of the St. Joseph Code of Ordinances.
Added 502.07 Subd.7: 11/2013
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.10-1
Section 52002.10: OFF STREET PARKING
Subd. 1: Intent. The off-street parking regulations of this Section are intended to provide
accessible, attractive, secure and well-maintained off-street parking and loading areas with the
appropriate number of spaces in proportion to the needs of the proposed use, increase public
safety by reducing congestion of public streets, The intent of this section of the zoning ordinance
is to establish general standards for off-street parking. The regulations provided herein shall
apply equally to all districts except where special provisions provide otherwise.
Subd. 2: Scope of Parking and Loading Requirements.
a) In all zoning districts, off-street parking facilities for the storage of motor vehicles
for the use of occupants, employees and patrons of the buildings or structures
hereafter erected, altered or extended after the effective date of this Ordinance
shall be provided and maintained as herein prescribed.
Subd. 3: General Parking Provisions.
a) Loading space shall not be construed as supplying off-street parking space.
Minimum parking dimensions shall meet the requirements of Section 502.10,
Subd. 5k.
b) When units or measurements used in determining the number of required parking
spaces result in requirement of a fractional space, that fractional space shall be
rounded up to the next highest whole number.
c) Whenever a use requiring off-street parking is increased in floor area, and such
use is located in a building existing on or before the effective date of this
Ordinance, additional parking space for the additional floor area shall be provided
and maintained in amounts hereafter specified for that use.
d) For the purpose of this section, "Floor Area," in the case of offices, merchandising
or service types of uses, shall mean the gross floor area used or intended to be
used for services to the public as customers, patrons, clients or patients as tenants,
including areas occupied for fixtures and equipment used for display or sale of
merchandise, less ten (10) percent.
e) Off-street parking facilities for dwelling shall be provided and located on the
same lot or parcel of land as the building they are intended to serve.
f) When off-street parking is required, it shall be designated for that purpose and the
individual parking stalls appropriately striped.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.10-2
g) Where a use is not specifically mentioned, off-street parking requirements shall be
the same as for similar use.
h) In the B1, B2 and B3 zoning districts on land which contains existing buildings,
nothing in this section shall be construed to prevent collective provisions of off-
street parking facilities for two (2) or more buildings or uses provided,
collectively, such facilities shall not be less than the sum of the requirements for
the various individual uses computed separately in accordance with the table, and
Subdivision 4 below, said buildings or uses are within 350 feet of the parking
area.
i) To accommodate redevelopment and/or expansion of existing structures or uses
within the B-1 and B-2 zoning districts, the Planning Commission City Council
may allow off-site parking providing the Applicant demonstrates alternative
parking arrangements such as a parking stall lease agreement or the presence of
public parking. Alternately, the Applicant may provide a parking study
completed by a qualified professional demonstrating the proposed use is
adequately served by existing parking.
j) Nothing in this section shall prevent the extension of, or an addition to, a
building or structure into an existing parking area which is required for the
original building or structure when the same amount of space taken by the
extension or addition is provided by an enlargement of the existing parking area.
k) No curb cut access shall be located less than twenty (20) feet from the intersection
of two (2) or more street right-of-ways for residential uses, and thirty (30) feet for
commercial and industrial areas. This distance shall be measured from the
intersection of lot lines.
l) Curb cut openings, driveways, and parking pads shall be a minimum of five (5)
six (6) feet from the side property line, except that on corner lots shall have a side
yard setback of fifteen (15’) feet from the property line on the intersecting street
and in compliance with Subd. 3 k.
m) All properties shall be entitled to at least one (1) curb cut. Single-family uses
shall be limited to one (1) curb cut access per property measuring no more than 24
feet in width (the 24 foot width shall include 18-foot width plus three foot taper
width on each side).
n) Driveways in residential areas which abut a hard surface roadway must be
constructed of a hard surface consisting of concrete, bituminous, or paver stone
designed to drain and dispose of surface water. Recycled bituminous or concrete
shall be prohibited except as permitted in an industrial area by special use permit.
Subd. 4: Required Off-Street Parking. The amount of required off-street parking space
for new uses or buildings, additions thereto and additions to existing buildings as specified
previously, shall be determined in accordance with the following table, and the space so required
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.10-3
and shall be irrevocably reserved for such use, except these requirements shall not apply to uses
in existing buildings within the Central Business District of St. Joseph. The amount of required
off-street parking in the Central Business District for existing or new uses and improvements to
existing buildings which do not increase the area used for commercial or residential/rental use
shall be determined by the Planning Commission with approval by the City Council prior to the
issuance of a building permit. The amount of parking space required shall be based on the
anticipated demand for parking and loading space, the length of visits generated by the particular
business, and the availability of other parking spaces in the Central Business District. The
Central Business District shall be located within the following boundaries: Properties lying to the
West of First Avenue Northeast; lying East of Second Avenue Northwest; lying North of
Minnesota Street; and lying South of the east/west alley which is between Minnesota Street and
Ash Street. The lots within the Central Business District are: Lots 4, 5, and 11 through 15 of
Block 10; Lots 7 through 12 of Block 9, and Lots 7 through 12 of Block 4, all in the Original
Townsite of St. Joseph.boundaries of the official zoning map of the City of St. Joseph.
a) Single family, two family, and townhome non-rental residential units. Two (2)
spaces per unit.
b) Boarding house, rooming house, bed and breakfast, multiple family dwellings and
rental residential dwellings. One and one-half (1 1/2) spaces for each single-
bedroom dwelling, two and one-half (2 1/2) spaces for each two-bedroom
dwelling, four (4) spaces for each three-bedroom dwelling, and an additional 1.25
spaces for each additional bedroom within the dwelling. Any bedroom larger
than 140 square feet shall be considered as two bedrooms for the purpose of
determining the total number of bedrooms within a dwelling. Fractional numbers
shall be rounded up to the next highest whole number.
c) Multi-Family Dwellings (R-3). Two spaces per living unit.
c)d) Motels, motor hotels, hotels. One (1) space per each rental unit and one (l) space
for each employee on any shift.
d)e) Church, theater, auditorium, community center or similar places of assembly. At
least one (1) parking space for each four (4) seats based on the design capacity of
the main assembly hall.
e)f) Hospitals. Three (3) Two (2) spaces per each bed.
f)g) Medical, chiropractic, dental or hospital out-patient clinics. One (l) space for
each one hundred ten (110) square feet of net floor area or seven (7) Six (6)
spaces per doctor/dentist. , whichever number of parking spaces is greater.
g)h) Nursing Home. Long Term Care Facilities, Assisted Living Centers, Rest Homes
and Retirement Homes. One (l) space for each two (2) six (6) beds for which
accommodations are offered and one (l) for each employee on any the largest
shift.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.10-4
h)i) Elderly (senior citizen) housing. One (1) space per unit.
i)j) Drive-in Fast Food restaurant and convenience food. At least one (l) parking
space for each thirty-five (35) fifty (50) square feet of gross floor area, plus one
(1) space per employee, plus six (6) off-street stacking spaces per drive-through
lane. but not less than fifteen (15) spaces.
j)k) Office buildings and professional offices, other than medical, chiropractic, or
dental or hospital out-patient clinics. One (1) space for each two hundred fifty
(250) square feet of floor area.
k)l) Bowling alley. At least five (5) parking spaces for each lane alley, plus additional
spaces as may be required herein for related uses contained within the principal
structure.
l)m) Automotive Service Station. At least four (4) three (3) off-street parking spaces
plus two (2) off-street parking spaces for each service stall, plus one (1) space per
each attendant of the largest shift. Those facilities designed for sale of other items
than strictly automotive products, parts and/or service shall be required to provide
additional parking in compliance with other applicable sections of this Ordinance.
m) Retail store and service establishment. At least one (1) off-street parking space
for each three hundred (300) square feet of floor area.
n) Retail sales and service business with fifty (50) percent of gross floor area
devoted to storage, warehouses and/or industry. One (1) space for each three
hundred (300) square feet devoted to public sales and/or service plus one (1)
space for each one thousand (1,000) square feet of storage area or one (1) space
for each employee on the maximum shift which is appropriate.
o)n) Restaurants and cafes. At least one (1) space for each four (4) seats used by
patrons, plus one (1) space for each per two (2) employees. on the maximum shift.
p)o) Private clubs serving food and/or drinks, bars, taverns, nightclubs. At least one
(1) space for each fifty (50) one hundred (100) square feet of gross floor area, plus
one (1) space per employee on the largest shift.
q)p) Funeral home and Mortuary establishments. At least twenty (20) parking spaces
for each chapel or parlor, plus one (1) parking space for each funeral vehicle
maintained on the premises.
r)q Manufacturing, fabricating or processing of a product or material Three (3) spaces
per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area, plus one (1) space per 300 square feet of
floor area of office. , warehouse, storage, handling or bulk goods, post offices. At
least eight (8) spaces, plus one (1) space for each two (2) employees on each shift
based on maximum planned employment or at a minimum one (1) space for each
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.10-5
five hundred (500) square feet of floor area.
s)r) Car wash. (In addition to required stacking space.)
1. Automatic drive through, serviced. Ten (10) spaces per bay for stacking
purposes plus one (l) space for each employee on the maximum shift.
2. Self-service. Three (3) spaces per bay for stacking purposes, plus a
minimum of two (2) additional spaces.
s) Convenience/Gas Store. One (1) space per 250 square feet of gross floor area.
t) Retail Business. One (1) space per two hundred and fifty feet (250) of net sales
area.
u) Shopping Center: Five (5) spaces per 1,000 square feet of gross floor area.
v) Day Care/Nursery School. One per six (6) children plus one space per employee
on largest shift.
w) Warehousing, Wholesale & Distribution. One (1) space per 1,000 square feet of
gross floor area, plus one (1) space per 300 square feet of gross floor area of
office.
x) Mixed Uses: In the cases of mixed uses, the parking facilities required shall be the
sum of the requirements for the various individual uses, computed separately in
accordance with this Section. Parking facilities for one use shall not be considered
as providing the required parking facilities for any other use except that the
governing body may consider the joint use of a parking area (other than
residential) where it is known that because of a time element, the parking facilities
will not be needed by more than one of the uses thereof at one time.
y) Other Structures or Uses: For any and all uses or structures not specifically
provided for in the foregoing, such parking spaces as the governing body shall
determine to be necessary, considering all the parking generating factors involved.
z) Demonstrated Parking: The City Council may approve a “proof-of-parking” plan
which allows for a portion of the required parking, but demonstrates that the
minimum number of required parking spaces can be accommodated on the
property and meet setback requirements. The plan must demonstrate that all other
applicable ordinances can be met if the full amount of required parking were to be
constructed. The area for future parking must be maintained as green space
(sodded with grass or natural plant materials). Any changes to use and/or
building size could invalidate the approval for “Demonstrated Parking”.
Demonstrated parking may reserve the right to require installation of the
additional parking spaces.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.10-6
Subd. 5: Parking Lot Standards. In all districts where off-street parking lots are
permitted or required such off-street parking shall be constructed and maintained subject to the
following regulations:
a) These standards shall not be applicable to parking provided for single family or
two family residences, public parks or other publicly owned property. Parking lot
standards for industrial uses may be subject to variance or modification by the
conditional use permit for the specific industrial use. In considering a request for
variance or modification, the City shall consider the location of the property, size
of the parking area, use of the parking area, adjacent property uses and the impact
on the general well being of the community. Alternative surfaces which may be
permitted in an industrial area are limited to Class 2 crushed granite which
conforms to the requirements of MN/DOT specification 3138 with visual
evidence of further consolidation.
b) Parking lots existing on or before January 1, l996, do not have to be brought into
compliance with these standards until such time as any of the following events
occur. (a) a new structure is constructed on the property served by the parking
lot; (b) an addition is constructed to any existing structure located on the property
served by the parking lot; (c) A change in use of the property served by the
parking lot occurs which results in a remodeling of the structure requiring the
issuance of a building permit.
c) Adequate ingress and egress shall be provided.
d) Such parking lots shall be constructed and maintained in a useable condition, with
a hard surface consisting of concrete, bituminous, pavement or paver stone
designed to drain and dispose of surface water. Recycled bituminous or concrete
shall be prohibited except as permitted in an industrial area by special use permit
or variance.
e) Whenever such parking lot boundary adjoins property zoned for residential use, a
setback of fifteen (15) feet from said lot line shall be required, and maintained.
f) Necessary curbs or other protection against damages to adjoining properties,
streets and sidewalks shall be provided and maintained. Concrete curbs to
MnDOT Design B612 specifications shall be used for all automobile stops
and for all drive and parking areas.
g) For the purpose of promoting redevelopment of property, parcels within the
Central Business District as defined in Section 502.10, Subd. 4, as may be
amended, may be exempted from perimeter curbing requirements provided:
1. The City Engineer finds the area is reasonably serviced by area storm water
structures/facilities.
2. The development application illustrates that:
i. Reasonable visual separation from adjoining properties, streets, and
sidewalks is provided and maintained through the employment of alternate
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.10-7
treatments such as landscaping or striping; or,
ii. The site is subject to a unified design/development that contains joint
parking or public parking facilities.
h) No sign shall be so located as to restrict the sight, orderly operation and traffic
movement within any parking area. Only signs necessary for the orderly
operation of traffic movement or parking regulation shall be permitted in any
parking area (e.g. visitor parking, deliveries, handicap parking). Such signs shall
not be considered part of the permitted advertising space and shall be subject to
signage regulations.
i) All parking lots shall be screened and landscaped from abutting residential uses or
districts by a wall, fence or densely-planted compact hedge or tree cover not less
than four (4) feet. nor more than eight (8) feet in height.
j) Except in the case of single-family, two-family, and townhouse developments,
parking areas shall be designed so that circulation between parking aisles or
driveways occurs within the designated parking lot and does not depend upon a
public street or alley and such design does not require backing onto the public
street.
k) Except in the cases of single-family, two-family and townhouse developments, a
parking space shall be at least nine feet wide by twenty feet long (9’x 20’). In
areas where the parking space may accommodate for the overhang of the front or
rear bumper, such as the perimeter of the parking lot, the parking space may be a
minimum of nine feet by 18 feet (9’x 18’). lot dimensions are set forth in the table
below. Circulation patterns shall allow adequate room for emergency vehicles.
Angle and Standard Depth Depth to Aisle Wall/wall Interlock
traffic flow stall width to wall interlock width module Module
90 deg 2-way 9' 17.5' 17.5' 26' 61' 61.0
60 deg 2-way 9' 18.0' 16.5' 26' 62' 59.0
75 deg 1-way 9' 18.5' 17.5' 22' 59' 57.0
60 deg 1-way 9' 18.0' 16.5' 18' 54' 51.0
Special designs will be considered for unique situations, and are subject
to approval of the City Engineer. Handicap stalls shall be provided in
accordance with current ADA requirements. Where bumpers overhang
sidewalks, allow 2.5 feet of clearance for the overhang before considering
useable sidewalk width.
l) Drainage and Surfacing. Driveways shall not exceed a grade of six (6) percent
and all parking lots except those for less than four (4) vehicles shall be graded
according to a drainage plan which has been approved by the City Engineer.
Catch basins, sumps and underground storm sewers may be required.
m) Striping. All lots for five (5) or more vehicles shall have the organization of
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.10-8
spaces painted on the surface according to the plan approved by the City.
n) Circulation. Lots shall be so designed that internal circulation shall be available
without utilizing the public street.
o) Maintenance. It shall be the responsibility of the lessee and/or owner of the
principal use, uses or building to maintain in a neat and adequate manner, the
parking area, striping, landscaping and screening. The parking and loading areas
shall be without holes and free of all dust, trash and other debris.
p) Lighting. All lighting used to illuminate an off-street parking area shall be shaded
or diffused so as to reflect the light away from the adjoining property and away
from abutting traffic flow.
Subd. 6: Parking in the E/E Educational and Ecclesiastical District.
a) Parking intended to be used by students, guests, employees, the public, residents,
and visitors within the E/E District shall be illustrated on a Master Parking Plan
which is consistent with this Ordinance.
b) The number of parking stalls required may be reduced from the requirements of
this Ordinance provided a parking study by a qualified individual finds proposed
parking in adequate.
c) Areas suitable to accommodate emergency vehicles and accepted by the Fire
Marshall shall be required for each structure.
Subd. 7: Parking pads for Residential Units in All Zoning Districts
a) Any off-street parking facilities to residential uses shall feature improved surfaces
as defined in section 502.10 subd 3(n) of this Ordinance and shall be made part of
or adjacent to the existing driveway and/or located in the side yard. For the
purposes of this section a driveway shall be defined as a private way for vehicles
leading from a public right-of-way to an off-street parking facility.
b) Off –street parking facilities located in the side yard as defined in Section 502.04
Subd. 116 of this code shall be improved to provide a durable and dust-free
surface consisting of concrete, asphalt, pavers or similar materials. Class 5
material is not an accepted material. Off-street parking shall not be permitted in
easement areas.
c) Existing driveways not currently improved to a durable and dust free surface are
not required to be upgraded unless it is determined that the current driveway
surface materials are washing into the public street causing a nuisance. Any
expansion to an existing gravel driveway shall be improved to a hard surface
roadway and must be constructed of a hard surface consisting of concrete,
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.10-9
bituminous, or pavers which could be designed to drain and to dispose of surface
water.
d) In no circumstances shall the site coverage exceed the maximum impervious
surface for each specific zoning district. For R1, Single Family Zoning Districts,
the impervious surface shall not exceed the limits identified in section 502.27
subd. 9(c) of this code.
Subd. 7 added 07/05/12 Subd. 8: Required Loading Berths. In connection with any structure which is to be
erected or substantially altered and which requires the receipt or distribution of materials or
merchandise by trucks or similar vehicles, with a gross floor area of five thousand (5,000) square
feet or more, there shall be off-street loading provided on the basis of the following:
Gross Floor Area Minimum required
square feet loading berths
5,000 to 16,000 1
16,000 to 40,000 2
40,000 to 70,000 3
70,000 to 100,000 4
each additional 40,000 1 additional
Loading space required under this Section shall be at least fifty (50) feet long and ten (10) feet
wide.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-1
Section 52002.11: SIGNS
Section 502.11: SIGNS
Subd. 1: Purpose. The sign ordinance is intended to establish a comprehensive and
balanced system of sign control that accommodates the need for a well-maintained, safe, and
attractive community, and the need for effective communications including business
identification. It is the intent of this section to promote the health, safety, general welfare,
aesthetics, and image of the community by regulating signs that are intended to communicate to
the public, and to use signs that meet the City’s goals. The purpose and intent of this ordinance is
to:
a) Regulate the number, location, size, type, illumination and other physical
characteristics of signs within the city in order to promote the public health, safety
and welfare.
b) Establish standards which permit all persons the opportunity to display a wide
variety of messages; to preserve and protect the value of land, buildings and
landscapes and promote the attractiveness of the community; to ensure that signs
in the City are not a safety hazard to lives and/or property, to preserve order and
to encourage persons to erect permanent signs and discourage temporary and/or
portable signs.
c) Improve the visual appearance of the City while providing for effective means of
communication, consistent with constitutional guarantees and the City’s goals of
public safety and aesthetics.
d) Provide for fair and consistent enforcement of the sign regulations set forth herein
under the zoning authority of the City.
Subd. 2. Findings. The City of St. Joseph finds it is necessary for the promotion and
preservation of the public health, safety, welfare, and aesthetics of the community that the
construction, location, size, and maintenance of signs be controlled. The City Council hereby
finds as follows:
a) Exterior signs have a substantial impact on the character and quality of the
environment.
b) Signs provide an important medium through which persons may convey a variety
of messages.
c) Signs can potentially create traffic hazards, aesthetic concerns, and detriments to
property values, thereby threatening the public health, safety, and welfare.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-2
d) The city’s zoning regulations include the regulation of signs in an effort to
provide adequate means of expression and to promote the economic viability of
the business community, while protecting the City and its citizens from a
proliferation of signs of a type, size, and location that would adversely impact
upon the aesthetics of the community and threaten the health, safety and welfare
of the community. The regulation of the physical characteristics of signs within
the City has had a positive impact on traffic safety and the appearance of the
community.
Subd. 3: Effect. A sign may be erected, mounted, displayed, or maintained in the City if
it is in conformance with the provisions of this ordinance. The effect of this ordinance, as more
specifically set forth herein, is to:
a) Allow a wide variety of sign types in commercial zones, and a more limited
variety of sign types in other zones, subject to the standards set forth in this sign
ordinance.
b) Allow certain small, unobtrusive signs incidental to the principal use of a site in
all zones when in compliance with the requirements of this sign ordinance.
c) Prohibit signs whose location, size, type, illumination, or other physical
characteristics negatively affect the environment and where the communication
can be accomplished by means having a lesser impact on the environment and the
public health, safety and welfare.
d) Provide for the enforcement of the provisions of this sign ordinance.
Subd. 4: Severability. If any section, subsection, sentence, clause, or phrase of this Sign
Ordinance is for any reason held to be invalid, such invalidity shall not affect the validity or
enforceability of the remaining portions of this Sign Ordinance. The City Council hereby
declares that it would have adopted the Sign Ordinance in each section, subsection, sentence, or
phrase thereof, irrespective of the fact that any one or more sections, subsections, sentences,
clauses, or phrases be declared invalid.
Subd. 5: Definitions. The Following words and terms shall have the
meanings ascribed to them in this section:
1. Sign: Any writing, pictorial presentation, number, illustration or
decoration, flag or other device that is used to announce, direct
attention to, identify, advertise, or otherwise make anything known.
The term “sign” shall not be deemed to include the terms “building”
or “landscaping,” or any architectural embellishment of a building
not intended to communicate information.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-3
2. Awning sign: A sign constructed of flexible translucent or fabric-
type material that incorporates a written message or logo on the
exterior.
3. Balloon sign: A sign consisting of a bag made of lightweight
material supported by helium hot or pressurized air which is greater
than twenty four 24 inches in diameter.
4. Banner: attention-getting device which is of a nonpermanent paper,
cloth, vinyl, or plastic like consistency used to promote a specific
community event.
5. Ballpark sign: a sign (1) securely attached to the outfield fences of a
ballpark, (2) whose content can only be viewed from the ‘in-play’
side of the fencing, (3) whose size does not cause it to extend in any
direction beyond the boundaries of the fencing that supports it, (4)
that poses no danger of cuts or other injury to persons using said
ballpark for its intended purposes, and (5) that does not otherwise
interfere with persons using said ballpark for its intended purposes.
6. Billboard. A free standing sign which directs attention to a business,
commodity, service or entertainment not exclusively related to the
premises where such is located or to which it is affixed.
7. Canopy: a roof like cover often of fabric plastic metal or glass on a
support which provides shelter over a doorway.
8. Construction Sign: Any non-illuminated sign that displays
information regarding the construction or development of the
site on which it is displayed.
9. Directional Sign: A sign intended to facilitate the safe
movement of pedestrians and vehicles into, out of, and around
the site on which the sign is located.
10. Dynamic Sign: Any characteristics of a sign that appear to
have movement or that appear to change, caused by any
method other than physically removing and replacing the sign or its
components, whether the apparent movement or change is in the
display, the sign structure itself, or any other component of the sign.
This includes a display that incorporates a technology or method
allowing the sign face to change the image without having to
physically or mechanically replace the sign face or its components.
This also includes any rotating, revolving, moving, flashing,
blinking, or animated display and any display that incorporates
rotating panels, LED lights manipulated through digital input,
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-4
“digital ink,” or any other method or technology that allows the sign
face to present a series of images or displays.
11. Freestanding Sign: Any sign not affixed to a building including but
not limited to a ground sign, or monument sign.
12. Flashing Sign: a directly or indirectly illuminated sign which
exhibits changing light or color effect by any means so as to provide
intermittent illumination which includes the illusion of intermittent
flashing light by means of animation. Also any mode of lighting
which resembles zooming, twinkling, or sparkling.
13. Height of Freestanding Sign: actual distance from the average
horizontal grade at the base of the sign to the highest point of the
sign, including any structure or architectural component of the sign.
14. Illuminated Sign: any sign which has characters, letter figures,
designs, or outlines illuminated by electric lights or luminous tubes
as part of the sign proper or by indirect lighting.
15. Marquee: any permanent roof like structure projecting beyond a
building or extending along and projecting beyond the wall of that
building generally designed and constructed to provide protection
from the weather.
16. Mobile Sign (Portable Sign): any sign designed or intended to be
moved or transported by trailer or on wheels. A sign may be a
mobile sign even it if has wheels removed, was designed without
wheels, or is attached temporarily to the ground, a structure, or
other sign.
17. Monument Sign: any free standing sign in which the entire base of
the sign structure is in contact with the ground, providing a solid
and continuous background for the sign.
18. Off-premise sign: any sign which directs the attention of the public
to a business, activity conducted, or product sold or offered at a
location not on the same lot where such sign is located. For
purposes of this sign ordinance, easements and other appurtenances
shall be considered to be outside such lot and any sign located or
proposed to be located in an easement or other appurtenance shall be
cons idered an off-premise sign.
19. Painted Sign: any sign painted directly on the outside wall or roof of
a building or on a fence, rock, or similar structure or feature in any
zoning district.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-5
20. Pole Sign: see Pylon Sign.
21. Portable Sign: see Mobile Sign.
22. Projecting Sign: any wall sign that protrudes horizontally more than one (1)
foot from the wall to which it is attached.
23. Pylon Sign: any freestanding sign which has its supportive structures
anchored in the ground and which has a sign face elevated above ground
level by poles or beams and with the area below the sign face open.
24. Sandwich Board Sign: any freestanding sign which is composed of
two pieces of flat, rigid material in the shape of a square or rectangle
that are hinged at the top and whose bottom edges rest on the ground
so as to create a triangular shape when being displayed.
25. Shimmering Signs: any sign which reflects an oscillating, sometimes
distorted, visual image.
26. Temporary Sign: any sign that is not permanently affixed to the
ground, a sign that is not permanently affixed to any other permanent
structure that is in turn affixed to the ground, or a sign that is capable
of being moved by mechanical or non-mechanical means, including
sandwich board signs.
27. Wall: any structure which defines the exterior boundaries or courts of
a building or structure and which has a slope of sixty (60) degrees or
greater with the horizontal plane.
28. Wall Sign: any building sign attached parallel to, but within
eighteen (18) inches of a wall, painted on the wall surface of, or
erected and confined within the limits of an outside wall of any
building or structure, which is supported by such wall or building,
and which displays only one (1) sign surface.
29. Window Sign: any sign placed on the interior of a window or
painted on a window such that it can be read from the outside of the
building.
Subd. 6: Permit Required. No sign shall be erected, altered, reconstructed, maintained or
moved in the city without first securing a permit from the city. The content of the message or
speech displayed on the sign shall not be reviewed or considered in determining whether to
approve or deny a sign permit. Application for a permit shall be in writing, addressed to the
Zoning Administrator, and shall contain the following information:
a) names and addresses of all applicants and/or owners of the sign and subject
property ;
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-6
b) the address at which any signs are to be erected;
c) the lot, block, and addition at which the signs are to be erected and the street on
which they are to front;
d) a complete set of plans, showing the necessary elevations, distances, size, and
details to fully and clearly represent the construction and place of the signs;
e) the cost of the sign;
f) type of sign (i.e. wall sign, monument sign, etc.);
g) certification by applicant indicating the application complies with all
requirements of the sign ordinance; and
h) if the proposed sign is along a state trunk highway or interstate highway, the
application shall be accompanied by proof that the applicant has obtained a permit
from the state for the sign.
i) Fee. A fee set forth by resolution applies to a permit for signs and shall be
submitted with the required application.
The Zoning Administrator shall approve or deny the sign permit in an expedited manner no more
than 60 days from the receipt of the complete application, including applicable fee. All permits
not approved or denied within 60 days shall be deemed approved. If the permit is denied, the
issuing authority shall prepare a written notice of denial within 10 days of its decision, describing
the applicant’s appeal rights under Section 502.07, Subd 6, and send it by certified mail, return
receipt requested, to the applicant.
Subd. 7: General Provisions. The following regulations shall apply to all signs hereafter
permitted:
a) Signs shall not be permitted within the public right of way or easements, except as
erected by an official unit of government or public utilities for the direction of
traffic or necessary public information, unless approved by the appropriate
government entity or as set forth in Subd. 26 of Section 502.11, as may be
amended, and pertaining to community event banners.
b) The design and materials of any sign shall be consistent with the building
materials requirements of the district in which the sign is located, and shall be the
same as, or compatible with, the materials and design of the principal building(s)
on the property.
c) Signs shall not be constructed or maintained in a manner which obstructs traffic
visibility.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-7
d) No sign shall be placed that resembles any official marker erected by a
governmental agency or shall display such words as “stop” or “danger.”
e) No sign shall be permitted to obstruct any window, door, fire escape, stairway or
opening intended to provide light, air, ingress, or egress for any building or
structure.
f) One (1) sign, regardless of its type, shall be permitted on each parcel of property
in any residential district, and such signs shall be limited to an overall area of six
(6) square feet.
g) The following types of signs are not permitted in any residential district:
1. Awning signs
2. Marquee signs
3. Balloon signs
4. Pole signs
5. Canopy signs
6. Pylon signs
7. Flashing signs
8. Shimmering signs
9. Wall sign
h) Pylon signs and off-premise signs shall only be permitted in the designated
corridors included in Exhibit “A” of this Ordinance. .
i) Monument Signs: The base of the sign shall be constructed of a permanent
material such as concrete, block, or stone. The sign face shall occupy at least 50%
of the monument sign. Signs shall be the same as, or compatible with, the
materials and design of the principal building(s) on the property.
j) Signs which may be or may hereafter become rotted, unsafe, or unsightly shall be
repaired or removed by the property owner or lessee of the property upon which
the sign stands upon notice by the Building Inspector. The owner, lessee, or
manager of any sign that contacts the ground and the owner of the land on which
the same is located shall keep grass, weeds, and other growth cut and shall
remove all debris and rubbish from the lot on which the sign is located. If the
owner, licensee, or lessee of the property fails to act in accordance with this
paragraph, the City may remove the sign in question upon the direction of the
City Council, and all costs incurred for removal may be charged to the owner of
the sign and if unpaid, certified to the County Auditor as a lien against the
property on which the sign was located.
k) No sign shall project more than two three (23) feet over a public sidewalk and
shall be a minimum of ten (10) feet above the average ground level directly
beneath the sign.
l) Signs shall not be located on the roof of a building.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-8
m) Signs that are painted directly on the surface of a building may be permitted in
business zoning districts provided that the area of the painted sign be calculated as
part of the maximum total permitted wall sign area for the building.
n) No sign shall violate the side or rear yard setback requirements of the district in
which it is placed. No sign shall be placed within ten (10) feet of a front lot line.
o) No sign shall exceed 200 square feet in surface area.
p) Except for monument signs and temporary signs, the surface area of the base of
any sign shall not exceed 25% of the face area unless structural engineering
illustrates the face cannot meet the wind loading requirements of the Building
Code.
q) Ballpark signs shall be allowed only on those ballparks that are primarily used to
host baseball and/or softball games.
Subd. 8: Illuminated Signs: Illuminated signs shall be shielded to prevent lights from
being directed at oncoming traffic in such brilliance that it impairs the vision of the driver and
may not interfere with or obscure traffic signs or signals. Lighting may not illuminate any
adjacent properties, building, or streets.
Subd. 9: Square footage Calculation (Total Area= A x B):
a) For wall signs, the area of a sign shall be that area within the marginal lines
created by the sign surface which bears the advertisement or, in the case of
messages, figures, or symbols attached directly to the part of a building, which is
included in the smallest rectangular figure which can be made to circumscribe the
message, figure, or symbol displayed thereon.
b) For monument signs, area shall be calculated as for wall signs. Structural
members of the sign, including supports or other decorative features shall not be
considered as a part of the measured sign area:
c) For pylon signs, the entire area of the sign face or cabinet shall be considered as a
part of the measured sign area. Structural supports, provided that they have no
message or other graphics, shall be exempt from the area calculation.
Subd. 10: Landscaping: A site plan shall be submitted as part of any application for a
freestanding sign which includes plans for the landscaping of the area near the sign, and which
demonstrates that the sign will complement the existing or proposed general site landscaping of
the property.
Subd. 11: Vehicle Fuel Facilities: Signs for vehicle fuel facilities shall be regulated by the
sign provisions for the zoning district in which the facility is located, except that within a
freestanding sign, an area not to exceed sixteen (16) square feet shall be allowed for continuous
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-9
display (no flashing, scrolling or other animation) of electronic or non-electronic changeable
copy identifying current fuel prices in accordance with Minnesota State Statutes Section
239.751, as may be amended.
Subd. 12: Dynamic Displays
1) Findings: Based on studies related to the use of dynamic sign displays and driver
distraction, the City finds that dynamic signs, as defined by this Section have a unique
potential to create driver distraction, a major cause of traffic crashes. As a result, the
City has adopted special regulations that relate to such signs. These regulations shall
apply to all dynamic signage in the City, whether new or existing, conforming or non-
conforming at the time of adoption of this Ordinance.
2) Regulations governing Dynamic Sign Displays
a) Dynamic sign displays shall have messages that change instantaneously, and do
not fade, dissolve, blink, or appear to simulate motion in any way. Prohibited
blinking signs shall include signs which are displayed as continuous solid
messages for less than the time required by subpart (d) of this subsection below.
The exception to this regulation is the allowance of messages that appear to scroll
horizontally across the sign, but are otherwise in compliance with the
requirements of this ordinance.
b) Dynamic sign displays shall not be permitted in any Residential zoning district.
c) Dynamic sign displays shall be permanent signs.
d) No dynamic sign display shall change more than one time per three (3) second
period.
e) Dynamic sign displays shall be no brighter than other illuminated signs in the
same district.
f) Dynamic sign displays shall be designed to freeze the display in the event of
malfunction, and the owner shall discontinue the display immediately upon
malfunction, or upon notice from the City that the display violates the City’s
regulations.
g) No dynamic sign display shall be permitted to be located in a yard or on the side
of a building which abuts a residentially zoned parcel.
Subd. 13: Temporary Signs.
a) Fee. A fee set forth by resolution applies to a permit for temporary or portable
signs.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-10
b) Maximum Size. The maximum size of a portable or temporary sign is sixty-four
(64) square feet; except that the maximum size of a portable or temporary sign in
any residential zoning district is limited to six (6) square feet.
c) Duration. The duration of time that a portable or temporary sign can be located
on a property is limited to forty (40) days in any one calendar year only after
application has been approved for location and placement.
d) Illuminated Signs. Illuminated signs, whether temporary or portable, shall have a
recognized seal of approval of listing from Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL)
or other recognized electrical standard and installed in conformance with the
listing or, if more restricted, the National Electrical Code as adopted by the State
of Minnesota.
e) One Sign Per Parcel. There shall be no more than one temporary or portable sign
per parcel of property. In the event that there are multiple tenants on a single
parcel of property on which temporary or portable signs are allowed, not more
than two portable signs shall be located on the parcel at any given time. One
portable sign will be allowed per strip mall site within the B-2 district.
f) Ground Fault Circuit Interpreters. The internal wiring of an illuminated outdoor
sign that is temporary or portable and readily accessible shall be supplied from,
and protected by, ground fault circuit interpreters.
g) Extension Cords. Extension cords used to supply power to portable or temporary
signs shall be enclosed in metal conduit or elevated at least nine (9) feet above the
ground to prevent tripping or electrical hazards.
h) Anchors. Anchors for portable or temporary signs shall be subject to approval by
the Building Inspector and maintained to prevent displacement or tipping over
during high winds.
Subd. 14: Exemptions. The following sign shall not require a permit. This exemption,
however, shall not be construed as relieving the owner of the sign from the responsibility of its
erection and maintenance, and its compliance with the provisions of this ordinance or any other
law or ordinance regulating the same. The exemption is as follows: The changing of the display
surface on a painted or printed sign only. This exemption, however, shall apply only to poster
replacement and/or on-site changes involving sign painting elsewhere than directly on a building.
Subd. 15: Design Standards for Residential Zoning Districts. The general provisions of
Section 502.11 apply to all signs within Residential Zoning District. In addition the following
standards apply.
1. General Provisions applying to all residential zoning districts:
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-11
a) No sign shall be placed closer than ten feet (10’) to any front property line, except
direction signs which have a zero foot (0’) setback. No sign shall be placed within
a required side or rear setback.
b) No sign shall be placed in any required interior side yard.
c) No sign shall be mounted on the roof of a building.
d) Flashing or rotating signs resembling emergency vehicles shall not be permitted.
e) Illuminated signs are not allowed.
2. R-1 Single Family Residence District and R-2 Two Family Residential District
a) No advertising or business signs shall be permitted, except signs advertising a
permitted home occupation limited to an overall area of six (6) square feet.
b) Subdivision Monument Sign: One unlighted sign having a surface area not
exceeding fifty square feet (50’) per face with an aggregate total of one hundred
(100) square feet and a height not exceeding eight feet (8’) per vehicle entrance
identifying each subdivision or housing development. Such signs are subject to
the following provisions:
1. Landscaping must be provided around the base of the sign.
2. The entrance to a development shall be one that abuts a collector or
arterial road.
3. R-3 Multiple Family Residential District and R-4 Townhouse/Patio Home Residential
District and R-5 Supportive Care District:
a) No advertising or business signs shall be permitted, except signs advertising a
permitted home occupation limited to an overall area of six (6) square feet.
b) Subdivision Monument Sign: One unlighted monument sign having a surface area
not exceeding fifty square feet (50’) per face with an aggregate total of one
hundred (100) square feet and a height not exceeding eight feet (8’) per vehicle
entrance identifying each subdivision or housing development. Such signs are
subject to the following provisions:
1. Landscaping must be provided around the base of the sign.
2. The entrance to a development shall be one that abuts a collector or
arterial road.
c) One area identification sign for each multiple-residential complex consisting of
three or more units.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-12
1. Such signs shall have a surface area of all faces not exceeding an
aggregate of fifty (50) square feet.
2. The height of the sign shall not exceed eight (8) feet.
3. Landscaping must be provided around the base of the sign.
4. The entrance to a development shall be one that abuts a collector or
arterial road.
5. Sign content shall be solely for displaying the name of the apartment
complex.
d) Wall Sign: One wall sign shall be allowed for the purpose of street identification.
Such sign cannot exceed twelve (12) square feet.
Subd. 1516: Permitted On Premise Signs; Business Districts. On-premise identification,
business or area identification signs are permitted. Nearby residents shall be protected from
direct light if these signs are illuminated. The following provisions apply to all Business
Districts.
a) Wall Signs. Each tenant other than those in multi-tenant buildings may have one
flat wall sign. Such signage may extend from the face of the roof over a covered
walk. Such wall signs shall notshall not exceed fifteen (15) percent of the area of
the wall to which the sign is attached, to a maximum of ninety-six (96) square feet
the maximum allowed in each zoning district as defined in this Ordinance.
b) Monument Signs. Each tenant other than those in multi-tenant buildings may
have a monument sign that shall not exceed the maximum allowed in each zoning
district as defined in this Ordinance eighty (80) square feet in surface area, and
twenty ( 20) feet in height, and is setback a minimum ten (10) feet from the
property lines.
c) Multi-Tenant Wall Signs. Each tenant in a multi-tenant building may have a flat
wall sign. The aggregate area of such signs shall not exceed five (5) percent of
the area of the wall to which they are attached Such multi-tenant wall signs shall
not exceed the maximum allowed in each zoning district as defined in this
Ordinance.
d) Multi-Tenant Monument Signs. One (1) monument sign shall be permitted for
each multi-tenant building provided the surface area of the sign does not exceed
one-hundred (100) square feet, per side, and twenty (20) feet in height, and is
setback in no case less than ten (10 )feet from the property lines. The area may be
increased to a maximum of one hundred and fifty (150) square feet per side for
developments of over twenty (20) acres.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-13
e) Canopies and Awnings. The design of canopies shall be in keeping with the
overall building design in terms of location size and color. No canopies with
visible wall hangers shall be permitted. Signage on canopies may be substituted
for allowed building signage and shall be limited to 25% of the canopy area.
Internally-illuminated canopies must be compatible with the overall color scheme
of the building.
f) Signs affixed to principal or accessory structures shall be composed of materials
or textures similar to those of the exterior façade to which they are affixed.
Subd. 1617: B-1: Central Business District: The general provisions of Section 502.11
apply to all signs within In the B-1 Central Business District. In addition the
following standards apply.
a) Business signs may be erected and maintained in conjunction with a commercial
use provided:
1. Freestanding Ssigns shall have a surface area not exceeding fifty (50)
square feet per sign face with an aggregate total not to exceed one-hundred
(100) square feet if double faced.
2. Such sign except a directional sign, is erected only on the premise on
which the use, to which the sign relates, is conducted.
3. Notwithstanding the above, where two or more separate and individual
businesses are conducting business in separate areas of a single building or
structure, in which each operation owns or leases separate and individual
premises, but share in the use and maintenance of common areas within or
around the structure, then and in those circumstances, each individual
business operation may be permitted to display an individual business sign
as provided in subdivision a) and b) of this Section, except that said sign
must be directly attached to that particular premises actually occupied by
the business operation to which the sign relates. For the purpose of this
subdivision, a combination of two or more business operations within a
single structure includes, but is not limited to, shopping centers, shopping
malls, and subdivided retail, office or industrial buildings offered for lease
or condominium ownership.
4. All freestanding Business Signs shall be landscaped around the base.
Except for monument signs, the surface area of the base of any Business
Sign shall not exceed twenty-five (25) percent of the face area unless
structural engineering illustrates the face cannot meet the wind loading
requirement of the Building Code.
b) Projecting signs are allowed in the B-1 District directly adjacent to Minnesota
Street and College Avenue provided:
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52002.11-14
1) The projecting sign does not extend beyond the first floor of the
building.
2) No less than ten (10) feet of clearance is provided between the
highest point of the sidewalk and the lowest point of the projecting
sign.
3) Cumulative projecting sign area is not greater than twelve (12)
square feet and maximum sign width not greater than three (3) feet.
4) Maximum distance between a projecting sign and the building face
doesn’t exceed one (1) foot.
c) Sandwich Board Signs are allowed only in the B-1 District directly adjacent to
Minnesota Street and College provided:
1) No more than one (1) sandwich board sign shall be allowed for
each tenant on a parcel of property.
2) The sandwich board sign does not exceed thirty-six (36) inches in
height or thirty (30) inches in width.
3) The sign is displayed only during normal operating hours of the
business on the parcel of property on which the sign is located.
4) The sign does not require any form of electricity or display lights
or moving parts.
5) That such signs do not block driveways, entryways or pedestrian
accesses, do not significantly occlude the sidewalk and/or do not
impact sightlines/view at street intersections.
6) The sign is made of weather and wind resistant materials of
superior quality.
7) The sign is not affixed to the sidewalk, other signage, or temporary
or permanent structure.
8) The maximum aggregate square footage of allowable sign area is
not exceeded.
10) The sign owner provides proof of liability insurance listing the
City as an additional insured and holding the City harmless at the
same time it applies to the City for a permit for the sign.
d) Wall Signs may be placed or painted against the exterior wall or surface of a
building or structure and are subject to the following regulations:
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-15
1. Wall Signs shall not project above a roof.
2. Wall Signs shall not exceed one (1) square foot per lineal lot front foot or
fifteen percent (15%) of the building frontage area, or fifty (50) square
feet whichever is the lesser.
e) Maximum Freestanding Sign height is twenty ( 20) feet above ground.
Subd. 1718: B-2 Highway 75 Business District: In the B-2 Highway 75 Business District,
the general provisions of Section 502.11 apply to all signs. In addition the following standards
apply.
a) Freestanding Signs may be erected and maintained provided:
1. Signs shall have a surface area not exceeding one hundred (100) square
feet per sign face with an aggregate total not to exceed two hundred (200)
square feet if double faced.
2. Such sign except a directional sign, is erected only on the premise on
which the principal use, to which the sign relates, is conducted.
3. Notwithstanding the above, where two (2) or more separate and individual
businesses are conducting business in separate areas of a single building or
structure, in which each operation owns or leases separate and individual
premises, but share in the use and maintenance of common areas within or
around the structure, then and in those circumstances, each individual
business operation may be permitted to display an individual business sign
as provided in subdivision a) and b) of this Section, except that said sign
must be directly attached to that particular premises actually occupied by
the business operation to which the sign relates.
For the purpose of this subdivision, a combination of two (2) or more
business operations within a single structure includes, but is not limited to,
shopping centers, shopping malls, and subdivided retail, office or
industrial buildings offered for lease or condominium ownership.
4. All Freestanding Signs shall be landscaped around the base. Except for
monument signs, the surface area of the base of any Freestanding Sign
shall not exceed twenty-five (25) percent of the face area unless structural
engineering illustrates the face cannot meet the wind loading requirement
of the Building Code.
5. The maximum height of a Freestanding Sign shall be twenty (20) feet.
b) Wall signs may be placed or painted against the exterior wall or surface of a
building or structure and are subject to the following regulations:
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-16
1. That the wall sign does not exceed one and one-half (1 ½) square feet per
lineal lot front foot or fifteen percent (15%) of the building frontage area
or seventy five (75) square feet, whichever is the greatest.
2. Wall signs shall not project above the roof.
Subd. 1819: B-3 General Business District: The general provisions of Section 502.11
apply to all signs within the B-3 General Business District. In addition the following standards
apply.
a) Wall Signs. Wall signs may be placed or painted against the exterior wall or surface of a
building or structure and are subject to the following regulations:
1. That the wall sign does not exceed one and one half (1 1/2 ) square feet
per lineal lot front foot or fifteen percent (15%) of the building frontage
area or seventy five (75) square feet, whichever is the greatest.
2. Wall signs shall not project above the roof.
b) Freestanding Signs may be erected and maintained in conjunction with a principal use
provided:
1. Signs shall have a surface area not exceeding one hundred (100) square
feet per sign face with an aggregate total not to exceed two hundred (200)
square feet if double faced.
2. Such Freestanding Sign, except a Directional Sign, is erected only on the
premise on which the principal use, to which the sign relates, is conducted.
Off Premise Signs are prohibited.
3. Notwithstanding the above, where two (2) or more separate and individual
businesses are conducting business in separate areas of a single building or
structure, in which each operation owns or leases separate and individual
premises, but share in the use and maintenance of common areas within or
around the structure, then and in those circumstances, each individual
business operation may be permitted to display an individual business sign
as provided in subdivision a) and b) of this Section, except that said sign
must be directly attached to that particular premises actually occupied by
the business operation to which the sign relates.
For the purpose of this subdivision, a combination of two or more business
operations within a single structure includes, but is not limited to,
shopping centers, shopping malls, and subdivided retail, office or
industrial buildings offered for lease or condominium ownership.
4. All Freestanding Signs shall be landscaped around the base, shall blend
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-17
into the natural features of the lot on which they are contained and shall be
consistent with the master landscaping plan of the development.
5. Except for Monument Signs, the surface area of the base of any
Freestanding Sign shall not exceed twenty-five (25) percent of the face
area unless structural engineering illustrates the face cannot meet the wind
loading requirement of the Building Code.
6. The maximum height of a Freestanding Sign shall be twenty ( 20) feet.
b) The following signs are prohibited in the B-3 General Business District:
1. Portable/Mobile/Magnetic Signs
2. Beacons, banners, pennants, search lights, and streamers
3. Flashing or Blinking Signs
4. Roof Signs, except those affixed to parapets.
5. Off-Premise Signs
c) Architectural and Design Standards
1. Principal buildings shall feature sign bands as an integral part of the
exterior architecture. Signs affixed to principal structures shall be placed
within said sign bands and the bands shall not exceed the maximum sign
height allowed in this section.
2. Signs affixed to the principal or accessory structures shall be composed of
materials or textures similar to those of the exterior façade to which they
are affixed.
3. Building sign and color palettes shall be analogous with a color employed
on the facade to which they are affixed. Analogous colors are those that
are next to each other on a color wheel as opposed to complementary
colors which are opposite of one another on the color wheel.
d) Master Sign Plan Required for Multiple Tenant Occupancies.
1. Master sign plans are required for all multiple tenant developments and/or
structures.
2. Sign placement and material for multiple tenant signs shall be uniform and
consistent with the development.
3. All signs contained in the Master Sign Plan shall conform to the
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-18
architectural, design, location, and performance standards of the
Ordinance.
e) Comprehensive Sign Plan – Special Use Permit.
1. The comprehensive sign plan special use process is only applicable to the
B-3 District and is an alternative to the strict adherence of the regulations
contained in this Ordinance.
2. Applicants may request a special use permit, as provided by Section
502.07 of the City Code, as may be amended, to allow signage which is
not in strict compliance with the provisions of the B-3 District applicable
to signage but which is appropriate to the character of the development.
3. The comprehensive sign plan special use permit process is intended to
encourage a flexible procedure to review area-wide signage plans that:
A) Are appropriately related to the overall character of the development.
B) Provide adequate identification and information,
C) Maintain an acceptable visual environment,
D) Promotes traffic safety, and
E) Are consistent with the purpose and intent of this Ordinance.
4. The comprehensive sign plan special use permit, or any modification
thereto, may contain such conditions, requirements or standards that may
be stipulated by the City Council to assure that signs covered by the plan
will not be detrimental to persons or property in the vicinity, or to the
public welfare.
5. The City Council shall only consider approval of a comprehensive sign
plan after receiving a recommendation from the Planning Commission.
6. Criteria for Special Use Permit review:
A) Consistency with the Architectural and Design Standards contained
in this Ordinance.
B) Sign Location and position: All signs shall be placed where they are
sufficiently visible and readable for their function. Factors to be
considered shall include:
i. The purpose of the sign,
ii. Its location in relation to traffic movement and access points,
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-19
iii. Its location in relation to site features and structures, and
iv. Sign orientation relative to viewing distances and viewing
angles.
C) Quantity
i. The quantity of signs approved under a special use permit
shall be no greater than that required to provide project
identification and entry signs, internal circulation and
directional information to destinations and development
sub-areas, and business identification. Factors to be
considered shall include the size of the development, the
number of development sub-areas and the division or
integration of sign functions.
ii. The number of signs approved under a special use permit
shall in no case exceed one hundred and twenty-five (125)
percent of that allowed under the traditional review process
within the B-3 District.
D) Size
i. Signs shall be larger than necessary for visibility and
readability. Factors to be considered in determining
appropriate size shall include topography, volume of
traffic, speed of traffic, visibility range, proximity to
adjacent uses, amount of sign copy, placement of display
(location and height), lettering style and the presence of
distractive influences.
ii. No sign approved shall exceed the maximum height
standard for signs contained in the B-3 District by more
than fifty (50) percent.
iii. No sign or combination of signs approved under a special
use permit shall exceed one hundred twenty-five (125)
percent of the maximum area standard allowed on the site
through the traditional review process.
E) Review Process. The review process shall be as prescribed in
Section 502.07, Subd. 3 of the St. Joseph City Code relating to the
processing of special use permits as may be amended.
F) Comprehensive Sign Plan Amendments. Minor amendments to
comprehensive sign plans allowed under a Special Use Permit shall
be reviewed by the Zoning Administrator and do not require a public
hearing provide the proposed changes:
i. The proposed signage change meets all standards
prescribed in the Special Use Permit.
ii. The proposed signage change meets all other standards or
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-20
requirements set forth in this section of the City Code.
iii. The proposed signage change will not increase the number
of signs, the height of signs or the sign area authorized
under the application Special Use Permit.
Subd. 1920: LI- Light Industrial District: The general provisions of Section 502.11 apply
to all signs within the LI Light Industrial District. In addition the following standards apply.
a) Wall Signs. Wall signs may be placed or painted against the exterior wall or surface of
a building or structure and are subject to the following regulations:
1. That the wall sign does not exceed one (1) square feet per lineal lot front
foot or fifteen percent (15%) of the building frontage area or seventy five
(75) square feet, whichever is the greatest.
2. Wall signs shall not project above the roof.
b) Freestanding Signs
1. Freestanding Signs shall have a surface area not exceeding one hundred
(100) square feet per sign with an aggregate total not to exceed two
hundred (200) square feet if double faced.
2. Such sign except a directional sign is erected only on the premises on
which the principal use, to which the sign relates, is conducted.
3. Notwithstanding the above, where two (2) or more separate and individual
commercial operations are conducting business in separate areas of a
single building or structure, in which each operation owns or leases
separate and individual premises, but share in the use and maintenance of
common areas within or around the structure, then and in those
circumstances, each individual business operation may be permitted to
display an individual business sign as provided in subdivisions a) and b),
except that said sign must be directly attached to that particular premises
actually occupied by the business operation to which the sign relates. In
addition to these individual business signs, the combination of business
operations occupying the structure, may maintain a fifty (50) square foot
sign detached from the structure identifying the structure, the individual
business operations located therein, or other reference to the combination
of business operations located within the structure. For purposes of this
subdivision, a combination of two or more business operations within a
single structure includes, but is not limited to, shopping centers, shopping
malls, and subdivided retail, office or industrial buildings offered for lease
or condominium ownership.
4. All Freestanding Signs shall be landscaped around the base. Except for
monument signs, the surface area of the base of any Freestanding Sign
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-21
shall not exceed twenty-five (25) percent of the face area unless structural
engineering illustrates the face cannot meet the wind loading requirement
of the Building Code.
5. The maximum height of a Freestanding Sign shall be twenty (20) feet.
Subd. 2021: Downtown Service Signage Area.
a) The City recognizes a need to give motorists general and directional information in
the densely developed, pedestrian oriented core of the City in a concise and
convenient manner. The pedestrian-oriented core is separate and distinct from
vehicular oriented or residential corridors elsewhere in the City. The intense pattern
of structural development, the volume of pedestrian activity, the mix of property uses,
and activities occurring 24-hours a day may inhibit conveyance of important
messages within the pedestrian-oriented core. To provide a means of effective
communications the City hereby establishes a ‘Downtown Service Signage Area’.
b) The Downtown Service Signage Area is illustrated on the Downtown Service
Signage Area Map which is hereby incorporated by reference. The area illustrated
in the map is described as: those lots fronting on College Avenue and Minnesota
Street from a point beginning on College Avenue at the southern terminus of the
intersection with CSAH 75, extending south on College Avenue to the intersection
of College Avenue and Minnesota Street and then proceeding west along Minnesota
Street to the intersection with CSAH 2 as it traverses in a north/south fashion. All
four quadrants of the intersection at College Avenue and Minnesota Street are
included in the map area. Areas north of the intersection of College Avenue and
CSAH 75 are not included in the Downtown Service Signage Area.
c) Off-premise signs shall be permitted by special use permit on lots which front on
the routes described in the Downtown Service Signage Area Map. Front footage
shall be as defined in the City Code, Section 502.04 (Rules and Definitions) as
may be amended. The standards contained in Section 502.07 and related to special
use permits apply.
d) Off-premise signs shall be ‘monument signs’ as defined in Subdivision 5 of
Section 502.11 as may be amended. Pylon signs are prohibited.
e) Off-premise signs shall not exceed twenty (20) feet in height or fifty (50) square
feet in area per sign face.
f) Off-premise signs are limited to two sides (i.e. sign faces) and one monument
base.
g) No off-premise sign shall be permitted within five hundred (500) feet of an
adjoining residential district, any property being guided by the Future Land Use
Map as residential or any public park, school, library, church, or government
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-22
building.
h) In no case shall any off-premise signs be placed on the roof of a building or
structure.
i) Off-premise signs shall be maintained in good, upright condition and sign faces
shall be kept free of sagging or peeling.
j) Off-premise signs shall be in composed of materials or textures reasonably similar
in quality to facades in the immediate vicinity of said sign.
k) The City may require off-premise signs be similar is shape, design, and material
components so as to promote and retain visual continuity and a sense of place
within the Downtown Service Area. Said shape, design, and material components
may be represented in a standard developed by the City and hereby incorporated by
reference.
Subd. 2122: Portable Signs.
a. Definition. A portable sign is one that is movable from one location to another
and is not permanently affixed to the ground, sales display device, or structure.
b. Permit Required. A business seeking to use or display a portable sign shall
obtain a permit from the City for the period of display. Permits will specify the
length of time the sign will be displayed, location of the sign, and business applying
to use the sign.
c. Length of Use. The duration of time a portable sign can be located on a
property is limited to a maximum of forty (40) days in any one calendar year.
d. Size. A portable sign shall not exceed 50 square feet which accounts for all
letters, numbers and attachments; excluding material required to support the sign.
Subd. 22: Non-Conforming Signs: Compliance. It is recognized that signs exist within
the zoning districts which were lawful before this sign ordinance was enacted, but will be
prohibited under the terms of this section. It is the intent of this sign ordinance that
nonconforming signs shall not be enlarged upon or expanded, nor be used as grounds for adding
other signs or uses prohibited elsewhere in the same district. It is further the intent of this sign
ordinance to permit legal nonconforming signs existing on the effective date of this sign
ordinance to continue as legal nonconforming signs provided such signs are safe, are maintained
so as not to be unsightly, and have not been abandoned or removed subject to the following
provisions:
a) No sign shall be enlarged or altered in a way which increases its nonconformity.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-23
b) If the use of the nonconforming sign or sign structure is discontinued for a period
of one year, the sign or sign structure shall not be reconstructed or used except in
conformity with the provisions of this ordinance.
c) Should such nonconforming sign or sign structure be damaged or structure be
destroyed by any means to an extent greater than fifty (50) percent of its market
value and all required permits for its reconstruction have not been applied for
within 180 days of when the sign or sign structure was damaged, it shall not be
reconstructed or used except in conformity with the provisions of this ordinance.
d) Should such sign or sign structure be moved for any reason for any distance
whatsoever, it shall thereafter conform to the regulations for the zoning district in
which it is located after it is moved.
e) No existing nonconforming sign shall be enlarged, expanded or moved except in
changing the sign to a sign permitted in the zoning district in which is it located.
f) When a parcel of property loses its nonconforming status all signs devoted to the
property shall be removed and all signs painted directly on any structure on the
property shall be repainted in a neutral color or a color which will harmonize with
the structure.
Subd. 23: Signs in Developing Subdivisions. During the development of a new
subdivision consisting of two (2) or more lots, there shall be allowed two (2) signs in the
subdivision, not to exceed twelve (12) feet in height. A fee is required to be paid for these signs,
as set by Council resolution. The City shall not review or consider the content of any message to
be displayed on such signs when determining whether to grant a permit. In addition to the signs
mentioned above, there shall be permitted one (1) sign not exceeding four (4) square feet, and
not more than six (6) feet in height, per lot in the subdivision. All signs allowed according to
this Subdivision shall be removed when 75 percent of the lots in the subdivision are fully
developed, or within two (2) years following the beginning of development in the subdivision,
whichever comes first. No signs allowed according to this Subdivision may be illuminated.
Subd. 24: Non-Commercial Speech. Notwithstanding any other provisions of this sign
ordinance, all non-commercial signs of any size may be posted in any number from August 1 in a
state general election year until ten (10) days following the state general election, and all signs
with a surface area of 50 square feet or less containing non-commercial speech may be posted
from eight (8) weeks prior to any special election until seven (7) days following the special
election. Signs permitted under this Subdivision shall be set back a minimum distance of no less
than fifteen (15) feet from the curb line, shall not be on any public right-of-way, and shall not be
permitted on school property or any other public lands.
Subd. 25: Substitution Clause. The owner of any sign which is otherwise allowed by this
sign ordinance may substitute non-commercial speech in lieu of any other commercial speech or
non-commercial speech. This substitution of copy may be made without any additional approval
or permitting. The purpose of this provision is to prevent any inadvertent favoring of
commercial speech over non-commercial speech or favoring of any particular non-commercial
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-24
speech over any other non-commercial speech. This provision prevails over any more specific
provision to the contrary.
Subd. 26: Banners. Upon application to the City, a banner may be permitted to be hung
across the right-of-way at the two specified locations designated by the City to promote local
community events only. This ordinance shall not be construed as authorizing any such signs or
banners on public property or on private property other than those specifically authorized by the
City.
a) Permit Required. No banner shall be erected, altered, maintained or moved
without first securing a permit from the City. The content of the message or
speech displayed on the sign shall be limited to promoting community events
and shall be reviewed or considered in determining whether to approve or deny
a banner permit. Application for a permit shall be in writing addressed to the
zoning administrator and shall contain the following:
1. Names and addresses of the applicant(s);
2. The event the banner is meant to promote;
3. The location(s) at which any banner is to be erected;
4. The type and content of the banner;
5. A complete set of plans, showing the necessary elevations, distances, size and
details of the banner;
6. The cost of the banner;
7. Certification by applicant indicating the application complies with all
requirements of the banner ordinance; and
8. The dates the applicant(s) request the banner be present.
b) Approval by Planning Committee. Banner plans will be reviewed at regular
meetings by the Planning Committee. In addition, special meetings can be
requested for plan review. In reviewing the proposed banner, the Planning
Committee shall consider the following criteria:
1. Traffic circulation and pedestrian safety. Banners shall not contain content or
be placed in a manner to obstruct the safety of pedestrians, motorists, cyclists,
or other users of the public streets over which they are to hang.
2. Sign Design and Visual Impact.
3. Construction and Maintenance. All banners must be constructed and
maintained by the applicant and must be done in a manner that results in
professionally finished appearance. All banners shall be constructed in such a
manner and of such material that they shall be safe.
All permits not approved or denied within thirty (30) days shall be deemed denied. If the
permit is denied, the issuing authority shall prepare a written notice of the denial within
ten (10) days of its decision.
c) Application Fee. An applicable permit application fee as listed City’s fee
schedule is due upon submission of the application.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.11-25
d) Erecting and Removing Banner. Each applicant is responsible for hanging and
removing an approved banner. Roadway banners in support of community
events may be displayed for a period not to exceed twenty-one (21) days. All
banners must be removed within 48 hours of the scheduled event.
The use of the posts to hang a banner which promotes a community event will
be given to applicants on a first come, first serve basis.
e) Liability Insurance/Hold Harmless. Proof of liability insurance in accordance
with this subdivision shall be delivered to the City Clerk/Administrator prior to
issuance of the permit. The applicant must demonstrate proof of financial
responsibility with regard to liability naming the City as an insured. The policy
of insurance shall be in limits of not less than one million per occurrence. The
liability insurance policy required by this subdivision shall provide that it may
not be cancelled for any cause, either by the insured or the insurance company
without first giving notice to the City in writing of intention to cancel it,
addressed to the City Clerk/Administrator of the City of St. Joseph.
f) Liability. The applicant(s) shall hold the City of St. Joseph harmless from any
and all claims and actions, litigations, and from damages arising out of the
erection, maintenance or removal of any banner allowed under the authority of
this ordinance nor shall the City of St. Joseph be held liable for a claim based
upon enforcement of this ordinance.
g) Notice of Violation/Assessment of Costs. Notice of any violation of this
ordinance will be sent directly to the applicant(s) or to the party who failed to
submit an application in violation of this subdivision. Violation of this
ordinance is deemed a misdemeanor.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-1
Section 52002.12: GENERAL PERFORMANCE STANDARDS
The intent of this section of the zoning ordinance is to establish general development
performance standards. The regulations provided herein shall apply equally to all districts except
where special provisions provide otherwise.
Subd. 1: Accessory Buildings in Residential Districts.
1a) In all residential districts dDetached accessory buildings shall be located in the
rear yard.
2b) All Detached accessory buildings which are greater than fifty (50) square feet, but
less than one-hundred-twenty (120) square feet shall require a zoning permit. and
shall comply with all yard requirements applicable to the principal building in the
District. The Zoning Permit Fee shall be established and amended from time to
time by resolution of the City Council.
3c) Detached Aaccessory building greater than one-hundred-twenty (120) square feet
shall require a building permit. and shall comply with all yard requirements
applicable to the principal building in the District.
4d) Attached accessory buildings and structures shall comply with the setback
regulations in the respective zoning district. Detached accessory buildings shall be
setback a minimum of ten feet (10’) from the rear and side yard lot lines, except
that on corner lots shall have a side yard setback of twenty feet (20’) feet from the
property line on the intersecting street. Accessory buildings shall not be located
over any easement. Accessory buildings which do not require a building permit
shall be located closer than five (5) feet from the adjoining side or rear lot line.
However, such accessory building shall be set back a minimum of 50 feet from
the front street right-of-way lines.
5e) All other accessory buildings shall setback a minimum of fifty (50) feet from
front street right-of-way lines. Accessory buildings are further limited shall not to
exceed over one (l) story of sixteen (16) feet in height.
Section 502.12, Subd. 1aamended 1/07
Section 502.12, Subd.1 amended 11/2013
bf) All garages shall, if the vehicle entrance backs upon a public alley, be setback at
least ten (10) five (5) feet from the public alley right-of-way.
cg) In no case shall the door of any structure, building, fence or improvement be
erected or constructed so as to extend beyond any lot line.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-2
dh) In business and manufacturing districts, accessory buildings and uses may occupy
any of the ground area which the principal building is permitted to occupy.
Accessory buildings such as buildings for parking attendants, guard shelters, gate
houses and transformer buildings, may be located in the front or side yard in the
Industrial District.
ei) Within the R-1, and R-2 and R-4 districts no accessory structures, excluding
decks, porches and patios but including attached garages, or any combination of
accessory structures shall exceed 1,350 square feet or ten percent (10%),
whichever is the lesser, of the total lot area. In addition, lot coverage
requirements outlined within the respective districts shall be adhered to.
j) Within the R-1, R-2, and R-4 districts no lot may have more than two (2)
accessory buildings, excluding decks, porches and patios.
k) Accessory building of less than fifty (50) square feet shall not be considered when
computing the limitations of paragraph i. and j. above; but the combined area of
accessory building of less than 50 square feet shall not exceed a total of 100
square feet.
fl) The same or similar quality exterior building materiel (such as siding, shingles,
etc.) shall be used on the accessory building and the principal building.
m) Pole barns and/or post frame construction and hoop tubular frame buildings are
prohibited.
gk) Accessory buildings other than garages shall be limited to ten (10) feet in height
in all single and two family and townhouse unit lots.
hl) Detached garage sidewalls shall not exceed ten feet and the pitch shall be no
greater than that of the principal structure.
im) The roof slope shall be no granter than the steepest roof slope of the principal
structure, nor less than the average of the roof slopes of the principal structure.
Subd. 2: Carport. A shelter for a vehicle consisting of a roof built out from the side of a
building and supported by a wall, with a minimum of two open sides.
a) The structure shall meet the Minnesota Building Code and City Ordinances for
accessory buildings.
b) Post frame construction is prohibited.
c) Structural wall must be set on footings.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-3
d) The parking pad shall consist of a durable and dust free surface consisting of
concrete, asphalt, paving stones, or similar material.
e) The structure shall meet the side and rear yard setbacks for the zoning district for
which the carport is located.
f) The carport area shall be included in the maximum allowed accessory area per lot
for the zoning district for which the carport is located.
Subd. 23: Fencing. See Ordinance 506.00, Fence Ordinance which applies to the
construction and maintenance of all walls, fences, to include living fences.
Subd. 4: Swimming Pools, Spas, Hot Tubs
a) The swimming pool, spa or hot tub shall meet all required setbacks for the zoning
district for which they are located.
b) The swimming pools or yard around the pool shall be enclosed by a wall, fence or
combination thereof which is at least [6] feet in height with a self-closing gate
capable of being secured with a lock so as to prevent uncontrolled access. All
points of access shall be made lockable.
c) For in-ground pools, required fencing shall be of durable material and shall be so
designed as to discourage climbing.
d) For above ground pools, pools sides that are vertical or slanted outward may
contribute to the required fencing, provided all points of access are controlled,
including the removal of all ladders or stairs when the pool is not in use.
e) If access to the pool is via a deck or porch, then no access from the ground is permitted
to the deck areas unless the property or ground access to the deck is fenced.
Entrances shall be equipped with self-closing, latching and lockable gates, and be placed
on the top of the gate. .
e)f) Temporary pools do not require safety fencing.
f)g) All out door spas and hot tubs require safety covers; therefore safety fencing is
not required.
Subd. 35: Screening and Landscaping.
a) Buffer Requirements. Where a business development and/or parking lot
exceeding five (5) spaces abuts upon a Residential District or use or is separated
from such residential district by an alley, there shall be a protective strip of not
less than 15 feet in width established as a buffer zone. Landscaped buffer must
contain a fence or evergreen hedge. Required Screening. In all commercial and
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-4
industrial districts adjacent to residential districts and not divided by streets there
shall be provided along the property line a fifteen (15) foot wide planting strip
composed of grass, trees and shrubs. A screening fence may be utilized when
approved by the Planning Commission. Such fence shall not exceed eight (8) feet
in height nor be less than six (6) feet in height.
b) Landscape/Vegetation Covering Required. In all zoning districts the lot area
remaining after providing for parking, driveways, loading, sidewalks or other
requirements shall be planted and maintained in grass, sodding, shrubs or other
acceptable vegetation or landscaping techniques.
c) Minimum Size of Trees and Shrubs: The following minimum standards shall be
required:
Overstory deciduous trees - 1 ½ inch diameter
Ornamental trees - 1 ½ inch diameter
Coniferous trees - 4 feet tall
Major shrub planting – 2 gallons
d) Performance Standards. A landscape plan must be submitted with each project
and such plan must be prepared by an experienced landscape person. In order to
achieve landscaping which is appropriate to scale with the site of a building and
site, the minimum standards apply to all districts except A, R-1, R-2, R-4, and B-
1.
1. Trees: One tree for every one thousand (1,250) square feet of total building
floor area or one tree for every one hundred feet (100’) of site perimeter,
whichever is greater. A minimum of twenty-five percent (25%) of the trees
required will be coniferous.
2. Ornamental Trees: One ornamental tree can be substituted for every six-tenths
(6/10) overstory deciduous shade tree. In no case shall ornamental trees exceed
fifty percent (50%) of the required number of trees.
3. Understory Shrubs: One understory shrub for every four hundred fifty (450)
square feet of building or one shrub for every seventy five feet (75’) of site
perimeter, whichever is greater.
4. R-1 and R-1A Districts: Minimum standards set above apply to A, R-1, R-2, R-
4 Districts in these instances:
a. Double frontage lots.
b. Anything other than a single-family home.
e) Credit for Large Trees. The total number of required overstory trees may be
reduced by one-half (1/2) tree for each new deciduous trees measuring four and
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-5
one-half inches (4 ½”) or more in diameter or each new coniferous tree measuring
eighteen feet (18’) or more in height. In no event, however, shall the reduction be
greater than twenty five percent (25%) of the total number of trees required.
f) Credit For Existing Trees.The total number of required new overstory trees may
be reduced by the retention of existing overstory trees; provided, that the
following conditions are met:
1. Size and Species: Such trees fulfill the minimum requirements of this
Ordinance as to condition, size and species. City staff shall decide the amount of
the credit for such exiting trees based upon their condition, location and
distribution in the lot.
2. Protection During Development. Proper precautions to protect trees during
development shall be indicated on grading plans submitted for plan review. These
precautions shall be included in the landscape surety.
gc) Landscaping/Planting in Easements. Plantings such as trees and bushes may be
placed in and utility easements at the risk of the property owner, provided they are
approved through the process identified in St. Joseph Ordinance No. 302, and
they do not change or interfere with the drainage. The city does not encourage
extensive plantings or landscaping in the easement area because of potential
drainage problems and the possibility of utility work in the easements. The city or
utility service providers shall not be required to replace plantings or landscaping
removed or damaged during work within the easement area.
h) Waste Handling Screening. For industrial, commercial, public/semi-public,
multiple family residential uses, excluding townhome developments, all waste,
recycling and related handling equipment shall be stored and kept in a four sided
enclosure constructed of a brick, stone, decorative concrete material or a material
compatible with the material of the principle structure.
i) Double Fronted Lots. Double fronted residential buildings and lots adjacent to
collector or arterial streets shall be screened. A fifteen-foot (15’) area for
landscaping shall be provided. Screening shall be accomplished by a combination
of earth berming and planting. Other requirements may be imposed on a case-by-
case basis. The required screening must be placed within the fifteen-foot (15’)
buffer area and designed by an experienced landscape person.
j) Light Encroachment. The light from automobile headlights and other sources
shall be screened whenever it may be directed onto adjacent residential windows.
k) Multi-Family Developments (R-3 and PUD). When adjacent to a lower density
residential use, all multifamily developments shall provide a landscaped area
within the minimum setback area. The landscaped area shall provide plantings
within the setback as a buffer between structures and the lower density residential
property line.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-6
l) Planting Screens. A planting screen shall consist of healthy, fully hardy plant
materials and shall be designed to provide a minimum year-round opaqueness of
eighty percent (80%) at the time of maturity. The plant material shall be of
sufficient height to achieve the required screening.
m) Screening Fence or Wall. A fence or wall may be used for screening when plant
materials are provided along the outside of the fence or wall for aesthetic appeal.
A screening fence, different from residential yard fence or wall shall be
constructed of attractive, permanent finished materials, compatible with those
used in the construction of the principal structure. Such screens shall provide a
minimum year-round opaqueness of eighty percent (80%) and be of sufficient
height to achieve screening but not to exceed six feet (6’) in height, except that in
business and industrial districts may be allowed up to eight feet (8’).
n) Earth Berms. An earth berm shall be allowed for screening when used in
combination with plant material. A height minimum of twenty five percent (25%)
of the required screen must be provided with plant material. Earth berms shall be
of sufficient height to achieve screening but shall not exceed three to one (3:1)
slope.
Subd. 46: Building and Lot Restrictions.
a) No building shall be erected, converted, enlarged, reconstructed or structurally
altered, nor shall any building or land be used except for a purpose permitted in
the district in which the building or land is located.
b) No building shall be erected, converted, enlarged, reconstructed or structurally
altered to exceed the height limit herein established for the district in which the
building is located.
c) No building shall be erected, converted, enlarged, reconstructed or structurally
altered except in conformity with the area regulations of the district in which the
building is located.
d) The minimum yards and other open spaces, including lot area per family, required
by this Ordinance for each and every building existing at the time of passage of
this Ordinance or for any building hereafter erected shall not be encroached upon
or considered as yard or open space requirements for any other building.
e) Every building hereafter erected or structurally altered shall be located on a lot as
herein defined and in no case shall there be more than one (l) principal building
on one lot unless provided in this Ordinance.
f) On a through street, a lot fronting on two parallel streets, or a corner lot, both
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-7
street lines shall be front lot lines for applying yard, setback and parking
requirements, except that for the purpose of determining the location of the rear
yard, the following rules apply:
1. For a corner lot, the rear yard shall be that portion of the yard opposite the
yard frontage as defined by Section 502.04.63;
2. For a through lot, the rear yard shall be that portion of a lot opposite the
street from which the principal structure derives its address.
3. Any use generally permitted within the rear yard of a lot may be permitted
in the rear yard of a through lot or corner lot so long as the use meets all
setback requirements, assuming that the front yard setback applies to all
streets abutting the property.
g) Manufactured homes as defined in this Ordinance shall be limited to locations
provided in the district provisions.
h) Any dwelling constructed in an area zoned R-1, on a lot of a plat approved by the
City on or after July 15, 1991, shall include an attached or detached private garage
of at least 20 feet in width and 22 feet in depth. For purposes of this ordinance,
width shall be measured on the side of the garage having an overhead garage door
for motor vehicle access.
i) Residential lots shall have no more than a single curb cut providing access to the
lot. The curb cut shall not be more than 24 feet in width.
j) No galvanized or unfinished steel, galvalum or unfinished aluminum buildings
(walls or roofs) (except those specifically intended to have a corrosive designed
finish such as corten steel) shall be permitted in any zoning district except in
association with farming operations.
k) Buildings in all zoning districts shall maintain a high standard of architectural and
aesthetic compatibility with surrounding properties to ensure that they will not
adversely impact the property values of the abutting properties or adversely
impact the public health, safety and general welfare.
l) Residential dwellings in the R-1, R-2 and R-3 Districts, except those within
approved manufactured home subdivisions:
1. Shall have a minimum roof pitch of 4:12, and each roof shall be shingled
or feature approved materials.
2. Shall maintain a minimum width of twenty-two (22) feet throughout a
minimum of seventy percent (70%) of the structure.
3. Shall be placed on permanent foundations of wood or concrete.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-8
Subd. 57: Height and Yard Exceptions.
a) Chimneys, cooling towers, elevator bulk heads, fire towers, drive-in movie theater
screens, grain elevators, silos, penthouses, stacks, tanks, water towers, pumping
towers, radio or television towers, monuments, cupolas, steeples and mechanical
appurtenances pertaining to and necessary to the permitted use of the district in
which they are located, shall not be included in calculating the height of the
principal structure. Wind energy towers and solar collectors will be allowed by
the variance procedure provided under this Ordinance.
b) Outside stairways, fire escapes, fire towers, porches, platforms, decks, balconies,
boiler flues and other similar projections shall be considered as part of the
building and not allowed as part of the required space for yards, courts or
unoccupied space, provided, however, that this provision shall not apply to one (l)
fireplace or one (1) chimney, not more than eight (8) feet in length and projecting
not more than thirty (30) inches into the allowable side yard space nor cornices
not exceeding sixteen (16) inches in width nor to platforms, terraces or steps
below the first floor level, nor to unenclosed porches or other ground level
unenclosed projections not over one (1) story in height which may extend into a
front or rear yard not more than five (5) feet, or into a side yard not more than
four (4) feet, but such platform shall be restricted from the five (5) foot required
side yard in the residence district.
Subd. 68: Independent Sewage Treatment System Provisions.
a) Once available, all sewage and water facilities shall be connected to the
Municipal sewer and water facilities within ninety (90) days of when said services
become available. Where sewers are not constructed or in operation all sewage
facilities shall be connected to approved septic tanks and disposal fields. This
provision shall not apply to temporary construction sites, or portable units.
b) Where access to a public sanitary sewer is not available hereunder, the building
sewer shall be connected to an independent sewage treatment system complying
with rules and regulations contained herein; as prescribed by the Minnesota
Pollution Control Agency; and, as contained in all other local, state, or federal
mandates.
c) Rules and regulations applicable to independent sewage treatment systems
contained within Minnesota Rules are hereby incorporated.
d) The building owner/lessee shall be required to operate and maintain the
Independent sewage treatment system in a sanitary manner, at all times, without
City expense.
e) Existing ISTS which are failing shall be required to be upgraded, replaced, or
repaired in compliance with provisions herein contained and as set forth in
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-9
Minnesota Rules, as applicable, within 180 days.
f) All ISTS design, installation, alteration, repair, maintenance, pumping, and
inspection activities shall be completed under a license or by a qualified
employee, or as exempted under part 7080.0700, subpart 1 (Minnesota Rules).
g) At such time as a public sewer becomes available to a property served by an
independent sewage treatment system, and a direct connection is made to the
public sewer and any septic tanks, cesspools, leaching pits, dry wells, seepage
pits, privies, and similar private sewage disposal facilities shall be abandoned in
compliance with Minnesota Rules, Chapter 7080.0176.
h) No statement contained herein shall be construed to interfere with any additional
requirements that may be imposed by the City or other authority.
i) Permit Requirement. Prior to commencement of the construction or the alteration
or repair of an independent sewage treatment system, an applicant must obtain a
written permit from the City. The permit application shall include:
1. Site evaluation report by a licensed septic system designer including items
identified in MN Rules Chapter 7080, and including a certified statement
from the entity that conducted the evaluation.
2. A design report and drawings created by a licensed septic system designer
including calculations and summaries for all system component sizing.
3. Additional information as requested and provided for within this
Ordinance.
j) The City shall not issue a zoning permit for a bedroom or bathroom addition, or a
system replacement on a property served by an ISTS unless the individual sewage
treatment system is in compliance with applicable requirements hereunder as
evidenced by a certificate of compliance.
k) A permit for an ISTS shall not become effective until installation has been
completed as certified by the City. The City shall be allowed to inspect the work
at any stage of construction with or without notification. The applicant shall
notify the building inspector when the ISTS is ready for final inspection, and
before any underground portions are covered.
l) Recordkeeping.
1. The City shall maintain copies of certificates of compliance, notices of
noncompliance, permit applications, issued permits, enforcement
proceedings, variance requests, and other actions taken. Said records shall
be available for review as defined in MN Rules 7080.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-10
2. The City shall submit an annual report to the commissioner to demonstrate
enforcement of this Chapter, provided application has been made thereto.
Subd. 79: Lighting Standards. Any lighting used to illuminate an off-street parking area,
sign or other structure shall be arranged as to deflect light away from any adjoining residential
zone or from the public streets. Direct or sky-reflected glare, where from floodlights or from
high temperature processes such as combustion to welding shall not be directed into any
adjoining property. The source of lights shall be hooded or controlled in some manner so as not
to light adjacent property. Bare incandescent light bulbs shall not be permitted in view of
adjacent property or public right-of-way. Any light or combination of lights which case light on
a public street shall not exceed one (1) foot candle (meter reading) as measured from the center
line of said street. Any light or combination of lights which cast light on residential property
shall not exceed 0.4 foot candles (meter reading) as measured from said property.
Subd. 810: Pollution. All uses shall comply with all federal, state and local pollution and
nuisance laws and regulations, including, but not limited to, glare, smoke, dust, odors and noise.
The burden of proof for compliance of appropriate performance standards shall lie with the
applicant.
Subd. 911: Dwelling Unit Restrictions.
a) No cellar, basement, garage, tent or accessory building shall at any time be used
as an independent residence or dwelling unit, temporarily or permanently.
b) Basements may be used as living quarters or rooms as a portion of residential
dwellings. Rental unit(s) in basements shall be subject to provisions of the
appropriate zoning district as well as the provisions of Ordinance #550 governing
rentals.
c) Tents, play houses or similar structures may be used for play or recreational
purposes, but shall not be independent residences or dwelling units, except as
provided for via license in licensed recreational camping areas.
d) No dwelling shall hereafter be erected or altered unless there is direct access to it
from a public street.
Subd. 1012: Outdoor Storage and Refuse.
a) Outside storage. Residential Uses.
1. All outside storage of materials and equipment for residential uses
(excluding farms) shall be stored within a building or fully screened so as
not to be visible from adjoining properties, except for the following:
A. Clothes line pole and wire.
B. Any combination of two or fewer licensed and operable
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-11
recreational vehicles (RV’s, boats, snowmobiles on a trailer, etc.)
and/or seasonal automobiles may be parked or stored on property
outside a home, provided:
i. If they are stored in the front yard they are stored entirely
on an established driveway, entirely on the owner’s
property.
ii. If stored in the side yard they are at least five feet from the
property line.
iii. If stored in the rear yard they are at least ten feet from the
rear lot line and five feet from a side lot line.
iv. If stored on a corner lot they are not closer than twenty feet
from the property line abutting a side street.
v. Storage and/or parking of commercial vehicles and/or
equipment, or any combination thereof, is prohibited. This
section will not apply to light trucks classified as ½ ton and
¾ ton pickups, panels and sedans.
Section 502.12 Subd 10a (1B) amended 10/10
C. Construction and landscaping material currently being used on the
premises.
D. On and off street parking of currently registered and operable
passenger vehicles and trucks.
E. Lawn furniture or furniture used and constructed explicitly for
outdoor use.
F. Rear or side yard exterior storage of firewood for the purpose of
consumption only by the person(s) on whose property it is stored.
b) Commercial/Industrial Uses. Except as allowed by district use provisions, outside
storage of equipment, materials and inventory as a principal or accessory use for
commercial and industrial uses shall require a special use permit subject to the
provisions of this Ordinance and all non-residential outside storage shall conform
to the following conditions:
1. The area occupied is not within a required front or required side yard.
2. The storage area is totally fenced, fully screened, and landscaped
according to a plan approved by the City Administrator/ClerkZoning
Administrator.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-12
3. If abutting a Residential District, or a residential use, screening and
landscaping is provided according to a plan approved by the City
Administrator/ClerkZoning Administrator.
4. The storage area is covered to control dust and storm water drainage with
bituminous surfacing, concrete or a comparable substitute approved by the
City.
5. All lighting shall be directed away from the public right-of-way and from
neighboring residences.
c) Refuse. All lots within all zoning districts shall be maintained in a neat and
orderly manner. No rubbish, salvage materials, junk, or miscellaneous refuse
shall be openly stored or kept in the open, when the same is construed by the City
Council to be a menace or nuisance to the public health, safety, or general welfare
of the City, or to have a depressing influence upon property values in the area.
d) Waste Materials. Waste materials are to be picked up and disposed of in
accordance with any and all city standards applicable to refuse/waste materials.
Excluded waste materials must be disposed of in a safe and appropriate manner in
accordance with local, state, and federal law. Release of excluded waste materials
to public or independent sewage treatment systems, the environment, or the solid
waste stream is strictly prohibited. The Disposal Service shall, upon collection,
immediately assume title to and liability for solid waste materials, recyclables,
and demolition debris.
Subd. 13: General Building and Performance Standards:
a) Residential Dwellings: All residential dwellings shall meet the following
design criteria:
1. All structures shall have permanent type foundations that are designed and
constructed in accordance with all applicable provisions of the State
Building Code as adopted in the State of Minnesota.
2. The exterior wall finish of all single family residences shall be similar in
appearance to normal wood, stucco, stone veneer or masonry material.
Vinyl and metal siding is permitted with no exposed fasteners and
overlapping in sections not wider than 12 inches. Sheet metal siding is not
permitted.
3. All roofs shall be covered with materials as approved by the State
Building Code as adopted by the State of Minnesota and shall be similar in
appearance to asphalt shingles, wood shakes, slate, and concrete tile. Sheet
type metal roofing is an approved alternative provided all of the following
are met:
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-13
a. A metal material which is an approved type in accordance with the State
Building Code.
b. Be standing-seam profiled metal.
c. Constructed of corrosion resistant material or have a corrosion resistant
coating.
d. Have concealed fasteners.
Subd. 14 Development/Site Plan Review. All site and building plans for multiple family
residential, commercial, industrial, institutional or public/semi-public uses shall require review
and approval by the Zoning Administrator. Plans shall be prepared by a qualified and licensed
civil engineer and architect.
a) Applications and Submittal Requirements: Applications for site and building
review shall be filed with the Zoning Administrator and shall be accompanied by
the appropriate fee and the following submittal information:
1. Proof of title and contract/purchase agreement and property owner signature
on the application form when applicable.
2. Four (4) large scale copies, four (4) reduced (11”x17”) copies of detailed
written materials, plans and specifications and one electronic copy.
3. Site Plan depicting the following:
a) Name of project or development.
b) Name and address of developer and/or owner and engineer/architect.
c) Scale (engineering only) at not less than one (1) inch equals one hundred
feet.
d) North point indication.
e) Existing boundaries with lot dimension and lot area.
f) Existing buildings, structures and improvements.
g) Easements of record.
h) Delineated wetland boundary, to include the OHWL of any lakes or DNR
waters.
i) All encroachments.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-14
j) Legal description.
k) Location, setback and dimensions of all proposed buildings and structures.
l) Location of all adjacent buildings and structures within one hundred (100)
feet of the exterior boundaries of the subject property.
m) Location, number, dimensions of all proposed parking stalls, loading
areas, fire lane, drive aisles, with curbing shown.
n) Location, width and setbacks of all proposed street accesses and
driveways and existing accesses within 100 feet of the property.
o) Location, width and setbacks of all proposed sidewalks, walkways and
trails.
p) Location and type of all proposed lighting, including fixture details.
q) Provisions for storage and disposal of waste, garbage and recyclables,
including details for enclosing and screening exterior containers.
r) Calculations for impervious/pervious surfaces.
2. Architectural Plans showing the following.
a) Date of plan preparation and dates of any subsequent revision.
b) Architectural elevations, in color, of all principal and accessory buildings
(type, and materials used in all exterior surfaces).
c) Typical floor plan and room plan drawn to scale with a summary of square
footage by use or activity.
3) Grading Plan depicting the following:
a) Existing contours at two (2) foot intervals.
b) Proposed grade elevations at two (2) foot maximum intervals.
c) Drainage plan, including the configuration of drainage areas and
calculations.
d) Spot elevations.
e) Surface water ponding and treatment areas.
f) Erosion control measures.
g) Wetland replacement plan (when applicable).
h) Soil borings.
i) Drainage calculations for 2, 10, and 100 year storm events.
j. Delineated wetland boundary, to include OHWL of any lakes or DNR
waters.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-15
k) Date of plan preparation and dates of any subsequent revisions.
4) Screening of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment.
5) Landscaping material including the location, type of plant and size.
6) Utility Plan showing the following:
1. Location of hydrants, valves and manholes, if any.
2. Location, sizing, and type of water and sewer system main and proposed
service connections, hydrants, valves, and manholes; or,
3. Location and size of proposed primary and secondary on-site treatment
systems, when allowed.
4 Storm sewer, catch basins, invert elevation, type of castings and type of
materials.
g) A description of provisions which shall be made on the site for adequate open
space and recreational areas to properly serve residents of the facility.
h) Any other fencing, screening, or building accessories to be located in the
development area.
i) Design Standards: Plans which fail to meet the following criteria shall not be
approved.
1. The proposed development application must be consistent with the St. Joseph
Comprehensive Plan, city policies and plans, including:
a. Land Use Plan
b. Utility (Sewer and Water) Plans
c. Local Water Management Plan
d. Capital Improvement Plan
e. Transportation Plan
2. The proposed development application conforms to this Ordinance and other
applicable City Codes.
3. The proposed development shall be served with adequate and safe water supply.
4. The proposed development shall be served with an adequate and safe sanitary
sewer systems.
j) Review and Required Fee.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.12-16
1. The Zoning Administrator shall forward copies of application and site and
building plans to the appropriate staff, consultants and governmental
agencies for review and recommendation. The Community Development
Department shall perform a review and approve or deny the application.
The Community Development Department may also suggest conditions as
they deem necessary to the approval of the site and building plans.
2. The applicant may appeals any denial or decision by the Department to the
Planning Commission and City Council according to the appeals process
in this Ordinance.
3. The Community Development Department shall provide to the Planning
Commission and City Council reports summarizing submitted site and
building plan applications and outcomes regarding approval or denials as
they occur.
4. Fees payable under this section for site plan review shall be in an amount
as established by resolution of the City Council. Preparation and review
of all elements of the required development plan, as listed and described
above, is to be at the sole expense of the developer and at no expense to
the public. The fee is payable at the time of filing a petition and is not
refundable. In addition to the above fees and in the event the City incurs
professional fees, either legal, engineering or professional planners, or any
other cost, including but not limited to, postage and publication expenses,
the applicants shall reimburse the City for those fees, and the City officials
may require an escrow deposit, cashier’s check or letter of credit for these
fees prior to the final action on the application for development plan
review. Such escrow or letter of credit shall be in the form approved by
the City Attorney.
Subd. 15: Additional Requirements. Uses may be subject to additional requirements
contained in this Ordinance including, but not limited to the sections governing parking, home
occupation, floodplain, signs, etc.
a) A Lock Box shall be installed on all buildings before a Certificate of Occupancy
will be issued.
b) A copy of proposed covenants and/or homeowner’s association agreement (s).
c) When required, evidence of completion of National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) permitting program and/or the City of St. Joseph
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP).
d) If applicable, evidence of compliance with federal, state and local pollution and
nuisance laws and regulations, including, but not limited to glare, smoke, dust,
odors and noise. The burden of proof for compliance with appropriate standards
shall lie with the applicant.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.25-1
Section 52002.25: ZONING DISTRICT BOUNDARIES AND GENERAL DISTRICT
PROVISIONS
Subd. 1: Establishment of Districts. The following district classifications are hereby
established within the boundaries of the City of St. Joseph.
A Agricultural District
R-1 Single Family Residence District
R-2 Two Family Residence District
R-3 Multiple Residence District
R-4 Townhouse/Patio Home Residential District
R-5 Supportive Care District
B-1 Central Business District
B-2 Highway #75 Business District
B-3 General Business District
LI Light Industrial District
EE Educational - Ecclesiastical District
P Public Zone
Subd. 2: Map. The boundaries of the use districts are delineated on the Official Zoning
Map, which is hereby adopted by reference and declared to be a part of this Ordinance. Such
map shall be on permanent file and available for public inspection in the City Hall. It shall be
the responsibility of the City Administrator/Clerk to maintain and keep the map up to date and to
record each amendment thereto within thirty (30) days after official publication of the Ordinance
adopting the amendment. The official map shall be signed by the Mayor and the City
Administrator/Clerk with the City Seal and certified that it is the official map of the City.
Subd. 3: Zoning District Boundaries. The boundaries of districts are the center line of
streets; the center lines of alleys, the rear lot lines where there are not alleys; the side lines of
recorded lots, designated distances where land is unplatted, section lines or property lines.
Subd. 4: Annexed Land. Any land hereafter annexed to the City shall be considered to
be in the agricultural district until otherwise classified or unless either of the following
circumstances apply:
a) In the event the annexed land has been rezoned in compliance with the
intended future land use as identified in the St. Joseph Comprehensive
Plan by the Joint Powers Board of the Township of St. Joseph and the City
of St. Joseph and such action has been approved by the City Council of St.
Joseph, such land shall be considered to be in the district for which it was
rezoned by the Joint Powers Board.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
502.25-2
b) When approving the annexation of property which has not been rezoned by the
Joint Powers Board, the City Council by resolution, may direct that the property
be classified for zoning purposes as a district that is in compliance with the
intended future land use as identified in the St. Joseph Comprehensive Plan.
Subd. 5: Vacated Streets or Alleys. Whenever any street, alley, or other public way is
vacated by official action of the City Council of St. Joseph, the zoning district adjoining each
side of the street, alley or public way shall be automatically extended to the center of such
vacation, and all area included in the vacation shall then and henceforth be subject to all the
appropriate regulations of the extended districts.
Subd. 6: Uses Not Provided for Within Zoning Districts. Whenever in any zoning district
a use is neither specifically permitted nor denied and the use is neither specifically permitted in
any other district, the use shall be considered prohibited. In such case the City Council, the
Planning Commission, or a property owner may request a study by the City to determine if the
use is acceptable and if so, what zoning district would be most appropriate and the determination
as to conditions and standards relating to development of the use. The City Council and
Planning Commission upon receipt of the study may, if appropriate, initiate an amendment to the
zoning ordinance to provide for the particular use under consideration or may find that the use is
not compatible for development within the City of St. Joseph.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.26-1
Section 52002.26: AGRICULTURAL DISTRICT
Subd. 1: Intent. To establish and preserve areas within the City for the continuation of
viable agricultural operations; and to provide for very low density residential development for
those persons desiring a rural life-style. To preserve areas which due to natural features, limited
roads and proximity to available services are best suited to limited development as determined by
the policies of the City Council.
Subd. 2: Permitted Uses.
a) General farming as defined by this Ordinance.
b) Single family residences as defined, provided they meet the requirements of this
section.
c) Commercial outdoor recreational area, including golf courses, club houses and
swimming pools.
d) Roadside stands for sale of excess garden produce provided they meet
requirements of this Ordinance.
e) Public parks, recreational areas, environmental study areas and game refuges.
f) Nurseries and tree farms.
Subd. 3: Uses Under Special Conditional Uses Permit. The following uses require a
Special Conditional Use Permit as regulated in this Ordinance.
a) Governmental and public utility buildings and structures.
b) Facilities for retail or wholesale trade connected with nursery and tree farms.
c) Kennels, animal hospitals, stables, etc., provided that:
1. Such uses are adequately screened from abutting residential uses;
2. Any structure, not including pens or corrals, in which animals are
temporarily or permanently kept is located at least 100 feet from any lot
line; and
3. Animals shall be kept in enclosed pens or corrals of sufficient height and
strength to retain such animals.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.26-2
d) Institutions of a religious eleemosynary or philanthropic nature.
e) Churches, religious or charitable purposes.
f) Public and Private schools, provided that the area and location of any school and
off-street parking shall be subject to the review and approval of the Planning
Commission.
g) Planned Unit Residential Development.
Subd. 4: Interim Uses. The following uses require an Interim Use Permit as regulated in
this ordinance as:
a) Mining, and extraction of minerals and dirt, per section 502.17 of this Ordinance.
b) Portable asphalt mixing plants within extractive uses. The interim use permit
issues shall include, but is not limited to, the following conditions: provisions for
adherence to pollution control standards, hours of operation, setbacks, haul roads,
areas where the plant is to be located and slopes. The interim use permit required
for portable asphalt mixing plants is in addition to the interim use permit required
for the operation of the mining/extractive use.
Subd. 5: Permitted Accessory Uses.
a) Operation and storage of vehicles, machinery and equipment which is incidental
to permitted or special uses allowed in this district.
b) Living quarters for person employed on the premises.
c) Home occupations per Section 502.16.
Subd. 6: Lot Area Requirements.
a) Minimum area 10 acres - 435,600 square feet.
b) Minimum lot width 300 feet at the building setback line, except that if a lot or
tract has less area or width than herein provided and was legally platted and was
of record at the time of the passage of this Ordinance, that lot may be used for any
of the uses permitted by this section.
Subd. 7: Setback Requirements.
a) Front yard setbacks of not less than 30 feet from all other public right-of-ways,
unless: i) 30 percent or more of the frontage on the same side of the street
between two intersecting streets is improved with buildings that have observed a
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.26-3
greater or less depth of front yard in which instance no buildings shall project
beyond a straight line drawn between the point closest to the street of the
residence upon either side of the proposed structure or, ii) If there be residences
upon only one side, then be on the straight line projected from the front of the two
nearest residences. iii) This regulation shall not be interpreted to require a front
yard of more than 100 feet.
b) Side yard setback shall be 15 feet. Wherever a lot of record existing at the time of
the passage of this Ordinance has a width of 75 feet or less, the side yard on each
side of a building may be reduced to a width of the lot, but in no instance shall it
be less than 5 feet.
c) Rear yard setbacks shall be not less than 40 feet in width from each building.
Subd. 8: Height Requirements.
a) No building hereafter erected or altered shall exceed 3 stories or shall it exceed 40
feet in height, except as hereinafter provided. Berming the building does not allow
a building to be constructed higher than 40 feet. Elevation for the building shall
be determined by the average grade of the land.
b) Public or semi-public or public service buildings, hospitals, institutions or schools
may be erected to a height not exceeding 60 feet, and churches may be erected to
a height not exceeding 75 feet if the building is set back from each yard
requirement at least one foot for each foot of additional building height above the
height limit otherwise provided in the district in which the building is located.
Subd. 9. Site Coverage. No structure or combination of structures shall occupy more
than 30% of the lot area.
Subd. 10: Sign. Refer to Ordinance 502.11 Signs. Regulation. All signs hereafter erected
or maintained, except official, public, traffic and street signs shall conform to the provisions of
this subdivision and any other ordinance or regulation of the City.
Subd. 11: Special and Temporary Signs
a) Temporary or portable signs are allowed in any district only by permit.
One portable sign will be allowed per strip mall site within the B-2 district. This excludes
political or campaign signs. A fee set forth by resolution applies to a permit for temporary or
portable signs.
b) Maximum Size. The maximum size of sign is sixty-four (64) square feet.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.26-4
c) Duration. The duration time of a portable or temporary sign can be
located on a property, except as specifically provided where, is limited to forty (40) days in any
one calendar year only after application has been approved for location and placement.
d) Illuminated Signs. Illuminated temporary or portable signs shall have a
recognized seal of approval of listing from Underwriters Laboratories Inc. (UL) or other
recognized electrical standard and installed in conformance with the listing or, if more restricted,
the National Electrical Code as adopted by the State of Minnesota.
e) One Sign Per Parcel. There shall be no more than one portable sign per
parcel of property or business. In the event that a parcel of property contains more than one
business, not more than two portable signs can be located on the property at one time.
f) Ground Fault Circuit Interpreters. The internal wiring of an illuminated
outdoor sign that is temporary or portable and readily accessible shall be supplied from, and
protected by, ground fault circuit interpreters.
g) Extension Cords. Extension cords used to supply power to portable or
temporary signs shall be enclosed in metal conduit or elevated at least nine (9) feet above the
ground to prevent tripping or electrical hazards.
h) Subdivision Development Signs. During the development of a new
subdivision consisting of two (2) or more lots, there shall be allowed two (2) signs in the
subdivision, not to exceed twelve feet (12’) in height. The sign shall advertise the development
and may name the subdivision, subdivision layout, developer, contractors, suppliers, brokers and
financial institutions involved. A permit shall be obtained for the placement of such signs and a
fee paid as set by Council resolution. Additional signs having a surface area not exceeding four
(4) square feet, and a height not exceeding six (6) feet, directing the public and/or identifying
models in the subdivision are also permitted. Both types of signs shall be removed when
seventy-five (75) percent of the lots are developed or within two (2) years, whichever shall occur
first. Such signs shall not be illuminated.
i) Anchors. Anchors for portable or temporary signs shall be subject to
approve by the Building Inspector and maintained to prevent displacement or tipping over during
high winds.
j) Real Estate Signs. Real Estate signs, including signs advertising the sale
or rental of premises, are permitted provided the area on one side of any such signs shall not
exceed six (6) square feet.
k) Campaign Signs. Campaign signs are permitted in all zoning districts and
are subject to the following regulations:
1. Campaign signs must be posted by a bona fide
candidate for political office or by a person or group promoting a political office or by a person
or group promoting a political issue or a political candidate.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.26-5
2. Campaign signs cannot be placed on public or
school property.
3. Any bona fide candidate for political office or a
person or group promoting a political issue shall obtain a registration from the City
Administrator/Clerk for the purpose of obtaining rules pertaining to campaign signs.
4. A campaign sign shall be permitted for a period
of not more than 60 days before the date of the election to which the sign relates.
5. If the sign relates to an office which is the
subject of a primary election, it may be retained in place after the primary election if it relates to
the next ensuing election.
6. Campaign signs shall be removed within seven
(7) days following the date of the election to which they relate.
7. Campaign signs shall be set back a minimum
distance of not less than fifteen (15) feet from the curbline. No sign shall be on the public right-
of-way.
8. Campaign signs in violation of this subsection
shall be immediately removed by the City.
Subd. 12: Sign Removal. All signs not maintained and kept in good repair shall be
subject to removal upon direction of the City Building Inspector.
Subd. 13: Additional Requirements. Uses may be subject to additional requirements
contained in this Ordinance including, but not limited to the sections governing parking, home
occupation, floodplain, signs, etc.
Subd. 14: Regulation of Activities Adjacent to Wetlands.
a) The following activity shall be subject to a 50 foot setback from wetlands: The
construction or maintenance of a building attached to a foundation, including but
not limited to, pole buildings. For purposes of this paragraph, pump houses,
moveable storage sheds, recreational docks and storm water or erosion control
devices shall not be considered buildings.
b) The following activity shall be subject to a 75 foot setback from wetlands: The
construction or maintenance of paved driveways or areas designed for the parking
of a vehicle or trailer.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.26-6
c) The following activities shall be subject to a 100 foot setback from wetlands:
1. The construction or maintenance of a well used for agricultural irrigation,
or any well less than 50 feet in depth.
2. External storage of materials used in conjunction with industrial or
commercial processing or manufacturing.
3. The storage of waste or refuse generated by industrial or commercial
activities.
4. The construction or maintenance of a septic system.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.30-1
Section 52002.30: R-1 SINGLE FAMILY RESIDENCE DISTRICT
Subd. 1: Intent. It is the intent of this district to provide for the orderly development of
residential areas and to avoid urban sprawl within the City; permit the development of single
family dwellings; to provide reasonable standards for such development; to avoid overcrowding;
and to prohibit the use of land which would be incompatible with or detrimental to the essential
residential character of such districts.
Subd. 2: Permitted Uses.
a) Single family dwellings - non-rental occupancy.
b) Public pParks and playgrounds.
c) Horticulture, not to include the retail sale of products.
d) Licensed residential group care facility with 1,300 feet between it and a similar
facility and not to exceed six boarders.
e) Licensed day-care facility serving 12 persons or less.
Subd. 3: Conditional Uses Under Special Use Permit. The following uses shall require a
Special Conditional Use Permit based on the procedures set forth in this Ordinance:
a) Governmental and public utility buildings and structures necessary for the health,
safety and general welfare of the community.
b) Public or semi-public recreational buildings and community centers.
c) Licensed day-care centers serving 13 or more persons.
d) Licensed residential group care facilities with seven or more boarders.
e) Public libraries.
f) Public and private schools provided that the location and off-street parking has
been reviewed and approved by the Planning Commission.
g) Institutions of a religious eleemosynary or philanthropic nature.
h) Nurseries and greenhouses.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.30-2
i) Planned use residential development.
j) Bed and breakfast.
k) Uses which in the judgment of the Planning Commission and City Council are
similar to those listed in this zoning district.
Subd. 4. Permitted Accessory Uses.
a) Private garages, pParking spaces and carports for passenger cars, trucks, recreational
vehicles and equipment.
b) Structures used for storage of domestic equipment and non-commercial recreational
equipment.
c) Swimming pools, tennis courts, detached screen porch or gazebo, provided that
the maximum lot coverage requirement is not exceeded. All swimming pools
must be fenced around the perimeter. The fence must meet the requirements of
this Ordinance. 502.12 subd. 2.
d) No accessory building nor structure shall be constructed on any lot prior to the
time of construction of the principal building to which it is accessory.
e) Fences.
f) Home occupations per Section 502.16.
g) Accessory building(s) and/or private garage(s), either attached or detached, shall be
subject to the following limitations, and the general requirements of Section 502.12,
Subd. 1.
h) A pet shelter or a structure designed and used exclusively for play by children in which
it shall not be considered an accessory building.
i) Signs as regulated within this Ordinance.
1. One or two accessory buildings covering a combined area not greater than 1,350
square feet are permitted.
2. The combined area of the lot covered by the accessory buildings authorized in
subparagraphs 1 above shall not exceed ten (10) percent of the total lot area.
3. Accessory buildings must meet the following design standards:
A. Pole barns and/or post frame construction is prohibited.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.30-3
B. The exterior finish materials (such as siding, shingles, etc.) shall be
similar in nature and color to the exterior finish material of the principal
structure.
C. The side walls of the structure may not exceed ten (10) feet in height.
D. The roof slope shall be no greater than the steepest roof slope of the
principal structure, nor less than the average of the roof slopes of the
principal structure.
4. No accessory building nor structure shall be constructed on any lot prior to
the time of construction of the principal building to which it is accessory.
5. Accessory buildings not specifically permitted by this paragraph shall be
prohibited unless authorized by a special use permit granted pursuant to
Ordinance 502.07.03. For purposes of this section, a pet shelter or a
structure designed and used exclusively for play by children shall not be
considered an accessory building.
Subd. 5: Interim Uses. The following are Interim Uses allowed by permit based upon the
procedures and criteria set forth in Section 502.07.04 of this Ordinance. Code.
a) Residential rental provided the unit is owner-occupied and provided the room(s)
rented does not contain separate kitchen facilities and is not intended for use as an
independent residence. For purposes of establishing if the property is owner
occupied, the owner must be a natural person, and all owner occupy the property
as their principal residence. The owners may not exceed two in number. For
purpose of determining ownership, the owner/owners must provide a copy of a
recorded deed or recorded contract for deed. A purchase agreement will not be
accepted as evidence of ownership. In addition,
1. The property must satisfy the parking requirements contained in this
Ordinance.
2. The rental unit(s) must:
A. Have a ceiling height of at least seven (7) feet;
B. Contain adequate ventilation and fire escapes as determined by
the Building Official; and,
C. Meet all applicable rental codes as outlined in St. Joseph
Ordinance 505 and Ordinance 505.06, Subd. 1.
Section 502.30, Subd. 5 amended 4/08
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.30-4
b) Residential Rental provided the property owner is relocating and the dwelling has
been actively for sale on the market for at least three months. For purposes of
establishing if the property is owner occupied, the owner must be a natural
person, and all owner (s) occupy the property as their principal residence and have
for at least two years. The owners may not exceed two in number. For purpose
of determining ownership, the owner/owners must provide a copy of a recorded
deed or recorded contract for deed. A purchase agreement will not be accepted as
evidence of ownership.
For the purpose of determining applicability, the property owner must provide a
copy of the current listing agreement, with a licensed realtor, showing the
property, is currently being marketed. In addition,
1. The property must satisfy the parking requirements contained in this
Ordinance.
2. The rental unit(s) must:
A. Have a ceiling height of at least seven (7) feet;
B. Contain adequate ventilation and fire escapes as determined by
the Building Official; and,
C. Meet all applicable rental codes as outlined in St. Joseph
Ordinance 505 and Ordinance 505.06, Subd. 1.
3. Conditions of the Interim Use Permit
A. If granted, the Interim Use Permit shall have a term of one year,
which can be renewed for one additional one year. The property
owner must make application for renewal and complete the rental
license process as well.
B. Under no circumstances shall the Interim Use Permit extend
beyond two years and a renewed Interim Use Permit will expire
and the end of the two year period.
Section 502.30, Subd. 5 (b) New 02/13
Subd. 6: Lot Area Requirements.
a) Minimum Area: 20,000 square feet where municipal sanitary sewer and water
services are not available.
b) Minimum Area where served by municipal sewer and water: 11,000 square feet.
c) Average width of not less than 75 feet and an average depth of not less than 125
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.30-5
feet.
Subd. 7: Setback Requirements.
a) Front yard setbacks of not less than 30 feet from the property line on all public
right-of-ways, unless:
1. 30 percent or more of the frontage on the same side of the street between
two intersecting streets is improved with buildings that have observed a
greater or less depth of front yard in which instance no new building or
portion thereof shall project beyond a straight line drawn between the
point closest to the street line of the residence upon either side of proposed
structure or,
2. If there are residences upon only one side, then beyond the straight line
projected from the front of the nearest residences.
3. Nothing in this regulation shall be interpreted to require a front yard of
more than 50 feet.
4. Where the street is curved, the line shall follow the curve of the street
rather than to be a straight line.
b) Side yard setbacks shall be ten (10) feet from the property line, except that for the
main structure and any garage or accessory structure. Wwhere the side yard abuts
a public right of way, the side yard setback shall be thirty (30) feet from the
property line. main structure and any garage or accessory structure.
Section 502.30, Subd. 7b amended 1/07
c) Rear yard shall have a depth of not less than 20 percent of the depth of the lot.
d) No part of the structure including footings, soffits, gutters or other overhangs shall
encroach on easement areas.
Subd. 8: Height Requirements.
a) No building shall exceed 22 stories or shall it exceed 35 feet in height. Berming
the building does not allow a building to be constructed higher than 35 feet.
Elevation for the building shall be determined by the average grade of the land.
Subd. 9: Site Coverage.
a) No structure or combination of structures shall occupy more than 30% of the lot
area.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.30-6
b) Impervious surfaces shall not exceed 50% of the lot area. Impervious surfaces
shall include all structures, parking spaces and driveway connecting the parking
space with a street or alley.
Section 502.30, Subd. 9 amended 1/07
Subd. 10: Signs
a) In R-1 Single Family Districts the following requirements shall apply to all signs:
1. No sign shall be placed closer than ten feet (10’) to any property line, except directional
signs which have a zero foot (0’) setback.
2. No sign shall be placed in any interior side yard
3. No sign shall be mounted on the roof of a building.
4. No signs shall violate the front, side or rear yard requirements.
5. Signs shall not be placed in the public right-of-way or easements.
6. Flashing or rotating signs resembling emergency vehicles shall not be permitted.
7. Illuminated signs are not allowed.
b) No advertising or business signs shall be permitted, except signs advertising a permitted
home occupation limited to an overall area of six (6) square feet.
c) The following temporary signs shall be allowed and are subject to the same provisions in
Subd. 2 (a – c) and are limited to an overall area of six (6) square feet.
1. Campaign
2. Garage Sale
3. Real Estate
d) One unlighted sign having a surface area not exceeding fifty square feet (50’) per face
with an aggregate total of one hundred (100) square feet and a height not exceeding eight feet
(8’) per vehicle entrance identifying each subdivision or housing development. Such signs are
subject to the following provisions:
1. Landscaping must be provided around the base of the sign.
2. The entrance to a development shall be one that abuts a collector or arterial road.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.30-7
e) Sign Removal. All signs not maintained and kept in good repair or in non compliance of
the St. Joseph Code of Ordinances shall be subject to removal upon direction of the City
Building Inspector.
Subd. 11: Yard Cover. Every yard on a premise on which a dwelling stands shall, within
3 months of issuance of a certificate of occupancy, be provided with lawn or combined lawn
cover of vegetation, gardens, hedges, shrubbery, and related decorative materials and such yards
shall be maintained consistent with prevailing community standards. If a certificate of
occupancy is issued between the months of November and April, the 3 month period shall begin
to run on May 1st.
Subd. 12: Additional Requirements. Uses may be subject to additional requirements
contained in this Ordinance including, but not limited to the sections governing parking, home
occupation, floodplain, signs, etc.
Subd. 13: Regulation of Activities Adjacent to Wetlands.
a) The following activity shall be subject to a 50 foot setback from wetlands: The
construction or maintenance of a building attached to a foundation, including but
not limited to, pole buildings. For purposes of this paragraph, pump houses,
moveable storage sheds, recreational docks and storm water or erosion control
devices shall not be considered buildings.
b) The following activity shall be subject to a 75 foot setback from wetlands: The
construction or maintenance of paved driveways or areas designed for the parking
of a vehicle or trailer.
c) The following activities shall be subject to a 100 foot setback from wetlands:
1. The construction or maintenance of a well used for agricultural irrigation,
or any well less than 50 feet in depth.
2. External storage of materials used in conjunction with industrial or
commercial processing or manufacturing.
3. The storage of waste or refuse generated by industrial or commercial
activities.
4. The construction or maintenance of a septic system.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.34-1
Section 52002.34: R-2 TWO FAMILY RESIDENCE DISTRICT
Subd. 1: Intent. It is the intent of this district to provide for the orderly development of
residential areas and to avoid urban sprawl within the City; permit the development of single and
two family dwellings; to provide reasonable standards for such development; to avoid
overcrowding; and to prohibit the use of land which would be incompatible with or detrimental
to the essential residential character of such districts.
Subd. 2: Permitted Uses.
a) Single family dwellings, owner occupied (as defined in this Ordinance. Section
502.30, Subd. 3(l).
b) Two family dwellings, owner occupied. For the purpose of determining if the
property is owner occupied, the owner must be a natural person, and all the
owners must occupy the property as their principal residence.
c) Public pParks and playgrounds.
d) Horticulture, not to include the retail sale of products.
e) Licensed residential group care facility with 1,300 feet between it and a similar
facility and not to exceed six (6) boarders.
f) Licensed day-care facility serving 12 persons or less.
Section 502.34 Subd. 2 amended 4/08
Subd. 3: Conditional Uses Under Special Use Permit. The following uses shall require a
Special Conditional Use Permit based on the procedures set forth in this Ordinance.
a) Governmental and public utility buildings and structures necessary for the health,
safety, and general welfare of the community.
b) Public or semi-public recreational buildings and community centers.
c) Licensed day-care centers serving 13 or more persons.
d) Licensed residential group care facilities with seven or more boarders.
e) Nursing Homes and Board and Care Homes, provided that adequate parking is
provided and the site is accessible to commercial service areas.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.34-2
f) Public libraries.
g) g) Public or private schools, providing, however, that the area and location of
any school and off-street parking heretofore shall be subject to the approval of the
Planning Commission.
g)h)
h) Churches.
i) Institutions of a religious, eleemosynary or philanthropic nature.
j) Nurseries and greenhouses.
k) Planned unit residential development.
l) Bed and breakfast.
m) Uses which in the judgment of the Planning Commission and City Council are
similar to those listed in this zoning district.
n) Non-owner occupied rental to a Family as defined by this Ordinance.
o) Manufactured homes as defined by this Ordinance.
p) Manufactured Home Parks, in accordance with this Ordinance. Section 502.14.
Subd. 4: Permitted Accessory Uses.
a) Private garages, parking spaces and carports for passenger cars, trucks,
recreational vehicles and equipment.
b) Home Occupations per Section 502.16.
c) Houses and similar buildings for storage of domestic equipment and non-
commercial recreational equipment.
d) Swimming pools, tennis courts, and detached screen porch or gazebo, provided
that the maximum lot coverage requirement is not exceeded. All swimming pools
must be fenced around the perimeter. The fence must meet the requirements of
this Ordinance. 502.12 Subd. 2.
e) Fences.
f) Accessory building(s) and/or private garage(s), either attached or detached, shall
be subject to the following limitations, and the general requirements of this
Ordinance. Section 502.12, Subd. 1.
g) Signs as regulated in this Ordinance.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.34-3
1. One or two accessory buildings covering a combined area not greater than 1,350
square feet are permitted.
2. The combined area of the lot covered by the accessory buildings
authorized in subparagraphs 1. above shall not exceed ten (10) percent of
the total lot size.
3. Accessory buildings of less than 50 square feet shall not be considered
when computing the limitations of subparagraphs 1. and 2. above; but the
combined area of accessory building of less than 50 square feet shall not
exceed a total of 100 square feet;
4. The principal building shall be constructed prior to or at the same time as
any accessory building or structure.
5. Accessory buildings not specifically permitted by this paragraph shall be
prohibited unless authorized by a variance granted pursuant to Ordinance
502.07.02.
Subd. 5: Lot Area Requirements.
a) Minimum area for Two Family Dwelling Unit not served by municipal sewer and
water: 24,000 square feet.
b) Minimum Area for Two Family Dwelling Unit served by municipal sewer and
water: 10,000 square feet.
c) Average width of not less than 75 feet and an average depth of not less than 125
feet.
Subd. 6: Setback Requirements.
a) Front yard setbacks of not less than 30 feet from property line on all public right-
of-ways, unless:
1. 30 percent or more of the frontage on the same side of the street between
two intersecting streets is improved with buildings that have observed a
greater or less depth of front yard in which instance no new building or
portion thereof shall project beyond a straight line drawn between the
point closest to the street line of the residence upon either side of proposed
structure; or
2. If there are residences upon only one side, then beyond the straight line
projected from the front of the nearest residences.
3. Nothing in this regulation shall be interpreted to require a front yard of
more than 50 feet.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.34-4
4. Where the street is curved, the line shall follow the curve of the street
rather than to be a straight line.
b) Side yard setbacks shall be ten (10) feet, except that from the main structure and
five (5) feet from garage or accessory building. Wwhere the side yard abuts a
public right of way, the side yard setback shall be thirty (30) feet from the
property line. main structure and any garage or accessory structure.
Section 502.34, Subd. 6b, amended 1/07
c) Rear yard shall have a depth of not less than 20 percent of the depth of the lot.
d) No part of the structure including footings, soffits, gutters or other overhangs shall
encroach on easement areas.
Subd. 7: Height Requirements. No building shall exceed 22 stories or shall it exceed 35
feet in height. Berming the building does not allow a building to be constructed higher than 35
feet. Elevation for the building shall be determined by the average grade of the land.
Subd. 8: Site Coverage.
a) No structure or combination of structures shall occupy more than 30% of the lot
area.
b) Impervious surfaces shall not exceed 50% of the lot area. Impervious surfaces
shall include all structures, parking spaces and driveway connecting the parking
space with a street or alley.
Section 502.34, Subd. 8, amended 1/07
Subd. 9: Signs.
a) No sign shall be placed closer than ten feet (10’) to any property line, except
directional signs which have a zero foot (0’) setback.
1. No sign shall be placed in any interior side yard
2. No sign shall be mounted on the roof of a building.
3. No signs shall violate the front, side or rear yard requirements.
4. Signs shall not be placed in the public right-of-way or easements.
5. Flashing or rotating signs resembling emergency vehicles shall not be
permitted.
6. Illuminated signs are not allowed.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.34-5
b) One unlighted sign per vehicle entrance identifying a dwelling unit complex.
Such signs may indicate the name and address of the building and rental or
management offices.
1. Such signs shall have a surface area of all faces not exceeding an
aggregate of fifty (50) square feet.
2. The height of the sign shall not exceeding eight feet (8’)
3. Landscaping must be provided around the base of the sign.
4. The entrance to a development shall be one that abuts a collector or
arterial road.
c) One area identification sign for each multiple-residential complex consisting of
three (3) or more structures.
1. Such signs shall have a surface area not exceeding fifty (50) square feet
per sign face with an aggregate area not to exceed one hundred (100) square feet
if double faced.
2. The height of the sign shall not exceed eight feet (8’).
3. Landscaping must be provided around the base of the sign.
4. Sign content shall be solely for displaying the name of the apartment
complex.
d) Wall Sign. One wall sign shall be allowed for the purpose of street identification.
Such sign cannot exceed twelve (12) square feet.
e) Sign Removal. All signs not maintained and kept in good repair or in non
compliance of the St. Joseph Code of Ordinances shall be subject to removal upon
direction of the City Building Inspector.
Subd. 10: Yard Cover. Every yard on a premise on which a dwelling stands shall, within
3 months of issuance of a certificate of occupancy, be provided with lawn or combined lawn
cover of vegetation, gardens, hedges, shrubbery, and related decorative materials and such yards
shall be maintained consistent with prevailing community standards. Motor vehicles may not be
left parked or unattended on or within a yard. Grass shall be maintained so not to exceed a
height of 6 inches.
Subd. 11. Additional Requirements. Uses may be subject to additional requirements
contained in this Ordinance including, but not limited to the sections governing parking, home
occupation, floodplain, signs, etc.
Subd. 12: Regulation of Activities Adjacent to Wetlands.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.34-6
a) The following activity shall be subject to a 50 foot setback from wetlands: The
construction or maintenance of a building attached to a foundation, including but
not limited to, pole buildings. For purposes of this paragraph, pump houses,
moveable storage sheds, recreational docks and storm water or erosion control
devices shall not be considered buildings.
b) The following activity shall be subject to a 75 foot setback from wetlands: The
construction or maintenance of paved driveways or areas designed for the parking
of a vehicle or trailer.
c) The following activities shall be subject to a 100 foot setback from wetlands:
1. The construction or maintenance of a well used for agricultural irrigation,
or any well less than 50 feet in depth.
2. External storage of materials used in conjunction with industrial or
commercial processing or manufacturing.
3. The storage of waste or refuse generated by industrial or commercial
activities.
4. The construction or maintenance of a septic system.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.38-1
Section 52002.38: R-3 MULTIPLE FAMILY RESIDENCE DISTRICT
Subd. 1: Intent. R-3, Multiple Family Residence District is intended to provide a district
which will allow higher density or residential development where city sewer services are
available.
Subd. 2: Permitted Uses.
a) Multiple Family dwelling structures containing more than twelve (12) units shall
be allowed pursuant to a Planned Unit Development (PUD) and a conditional use
permit, and shall be controlled by the PUD Ordinance, Section 502.09, except that
the provision requiring a minimum of twenty (20) acres will not apply.
502.38, Subd. 2(a) Amended 4/2004.
b) Public pParks and playgrounds.
c) Hospitals, extended care centers, nursing homes, group care centers or assisted
living centers.
d) Churches, libraries, museums or schools.
e) Townhouses.
f) Lodging houses.
g) Licensed in-home daycare serving 16 or fewer persons.
h) Licensed residential facilities/group homes serving 16 or fewer persons.
Subd. 3: Permitted Accessory Uses.
a) Private garages, parking spaces and carports for passenger cars, trucks,
recreational vehicles and equipment. Private garages shall meet the requirements
of this Ordinance. The total floor area of private garages shall not exceed 300
square feet per unit and shall not be higher than fifteen feet and the exterior
covering must be the same or similar to the roof and side wall materials on the
principal structure. R-3 developments with three (3) or less units shall abide by
the R-41 accessory building provisions, including but not limited to the maximum
lot coverage requirements.
b) Home occupations per Section 502.16.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.38-2
c) Storage buildings for storage of domestic equipment used in the maintenance of
the property and non-commercial recreational equipment used primarily at the
property.
1. Location: No accessory building, other than a garage, shall be located
within any yard other than the rear yard.
2. Height: Accessory buildings shall not exceed fifteen feet (15’) in height.
3. Exterior: All accessory buildings shall be the same or similar to the roof
and side wall materials on the principal structure.
4. Number of Buildings: No lot shall have more than one (1) detached
storage building.
5. Size: All detached accessory buildings shall have a floor area not to
exceed 300 square feet.
d) Swimming pools and tennis courts, provided that the maximum lot coverage
requirement is not exceeded. All swimming pools must be fenced around the
perimeter. The fence must meet the requirements of Section 502.12 Subd. 2 of
this Ordinance.
e) Residential communal facilities such as laundry, recreation buildings, and
residential leasing office.
f) Fences.
g) Signs as regulated in this Ordinance.
Subd. 4: Conditional Uses. Under Special Use Permit. The following uses require a
conditional use permit as provided for in this Ordinance.
a) Public buildings, police and fire stations and other public buildings, except those
customarily considered industrial in nature.
b) Cemeteries and memorial gardens.
c) Manufactured Home Parks, in accordance with this Ordinance Section 502.14.
d) Uses which in the judgment of the Planning Commission and City Council are
similar to those listed in Subdivision 2 of this Section.
e) Any multiple family dwelling structure of more than twelve (12) units.
502.38 Subd. 4(e) added in April, 2004.
Subd. 5: Lot Area Requirements.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.38-3
a) Minimum lot area shall be 12,000 square feet.
b) For the basis of computing the number of permitted units within a multiple
residence, the following shall apply:
1. Efficiency unit for each 2,000 square feet of lot area; and
2. One 1 bedroom unit for each 3,000 square feet of lot area; and
3. One 2 bedroom unit for each 3,500 square feet of lot area; and
4. One 3 bedroom unit for each 4,000 square feet of lot area;
5. For each additional bedroom (over 3) per unit, an additional 500 square
feet of lot area;
6. Lot depths of greater than 150% of the average lot width shall be used in
computing the maximum number of units.
7. On-site manager unit – shall be based on the same square footage
requirements as stated above.
c) Multiple family dwellings shall not occupy more than 35% of the lot including
accessory buildings.
d) Each lot shall have a minimum width of 150 feet at the building setback line.
e) Each lot shall have a minimum width of 80 feet at the public right-of-way.
f) Impervious surfaces shall not exceed 50% of the lot area. Impervious surfaces
shall include all structures, parking spaces and driveway connecting the parking
space with a street or alley.
502.38, Subd. 5, amended 1/07
Subd. 6: Schedule of Allowances. The lot areas per dwelling unit described in Section
502.38, Subd. 5 shall be further subject to the following schedule of allowances, which shall be
added to or subtracted from, the minimum lot area per dwelling unit as prescribed hereby
regulating density requirements as to the location, use and access provided for the property
within the R-3 multiple residence family district.
a) For each parking space provided within the building, or underground, subtract
300 square feet.
b) If the site upon which the multiple dwelling is being constructed, or the zoning
district adjacent to the site is zoned for a commercial use, subtract 300 square feet.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.38-4
c) If the multiple dwelling site is within 300 feet of an R-1 or R-2 Residence
District, add 300 square feet per unit, for all units constructed on the site.
d) If the total lot coverage is less than 20%, subtract 150 square feet per unit.
e) In such cases where it is necessary to raze an existing principal structure in a
dilapidated condition, or where said building is economically unfeasible to
rehabilitate, there shall be provided an allowance of two dwelling units above any
other allowances required within this section.
f) If the multiple dwelling unit contains major outdoor recreational features or
structures such as swimming pools, improved outdoor common areas with
pathways/parkland or similar facilities requiring a substantial investment equal to
or greater than five (5%) percent of the construction cost of the principal
structure, subtract 75 square feet per unit.
g) If the multiple dwelling unit contains indoor recreation and social rooms equal to
twenty-five (25) square feet per unit or 1,000 square feet, whichever is greater;
subtract 50 square feet per unit.
Subd. 7. Setback Requirements.
a) The front yard of any R-3 residence shall be 35 feet from the lot line.
b) The side yard of any R-3 residence shall be 20 feet from the lot line, unless the
side yard abuts a street or highway in which case the setback shall not be less than
30 feet. In the event the side yard of an R-3 residence abuts another residential
district, all principal structures shall be set back 50 feet from the property line.
c) The rear yard of any R-3 residence shall be 40 feet from the lot line. When
abutting a lower density residential use, the rear yard setback shall be a minimum
of fifty (50’) feet from the property line.
d) Detached accessory structures and parking lots with more than 2 stalls shall be
setback a minimum of ten (10) feet from those side and rear property lines
adjacent to uses of a similar density (R-3), commercial and industrial properties.
Detached accessory structures shall be setback a minimum of thirty (30) feet from
those side and rear property lines adjacent to lower density residential uses.
d) All building permit requests must be accompanied by a building plan and a
landscape plan acceptable by the Planning Commission.
e) No part of the structure including footings, soffits, gutters or other overhangs shall
encroach on easement areas.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.38-5
Subd. 8: Height Requirements. No structure shall exceed the lesser of 3 stories or 40
feet in height. except as hereinafter provided. Berming the building does not allow a building to
be constructed higher than 40 feet. Elevation for the building shall be determined by the average
grade of the land.
Subd. 9: Exterior Requirements. All exterior wall finishes on any building shall include
at least one material from each of the following groups:
a) Face brick, natural stone, wood textured precast concrete panels, textured
concrete block, stucco.
b) Pre-finished decorative panels made of metal, vinyl, steel or wood.”
Subd. 10: Signs. In R-3 Multiple Family Districts the general provisions apply to all
signs:
a) No sign shall be placed closer than ten feet (10’) to any property line, except directional
signs which have a zero foot (0’) setback.
1. No sign shall be placed in any interior side yard
2. No sign shall be mounted on the roof of a building.
3. No signs shall violate the side or rear yard requirements.
4. Signs shall not be placed in the public right-of-way or easements.
5. Flashing or rotating signs resembling emergency vehicles shall not be
permitted.
6. Illuminated signs are not allowed.
b) One unlighted sign per vehicle entrance identifying a dwelling unit complex.
Such signs may indicate the name and address of the building and rental or management offices.
1. Such signs shall have a surface area of all faces not exceeding an
aggregate of fifty (50) square feet.
2. The height of the sign shall not exceeding eight feet (8’)
3. Landscaping must be provided around the base of the sign.
4. The entrance to a development shall be one that abuts a collector or
arterial road.
c) One area identification sign for each multiple-residential complex consisting of
three (3) or more structures.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.38-6
1. Such signs shall have a surface area not exceeding fifty (50) square feet
per sign face with an aggregate area not to exceed one hundred (100) square feet if double faced.
2. The height of the sign shall not exceed eight feet (8’).
3. Landscaping must be provided around the base of the sign.
4. Sign content shall be solely for displaying the name of the apartment
complex.
d) Wall Sign. One wall sign shall be allowed for the purpose of street identification.
Such sign cannot exceed twelve (12) square feet.
e) Sign Removal. All signs not maintained and kept in good repair or in non
compliance of the St. Joseph Code of Ordinances shall be subject to removal upon direction of
the City Building Inspector.
Subd. 11: Yard Cover. Every yard on a premise on which a dwelling stands shall be
provided with lawn or combined lawn cover of vegetation, gardens, hedges, shrubbery, and
related decorative materials and such yards shall be maintained consistent with prevailing
community standards. Motor vehicles may not be left parked or unattended on or within a yard.
Grass shall be maintained so not to exceed a height of 6 inches.
Subd. 12: Development Plan Requirements. No building permit shall be issued until the
Planning Commission reviews the development plan to determine that the use and development
is compatible with adjacent land uses, and consistent with the stated intent of this zone. Upon
the request of the Planning Commission the City Council will make the final determination on
site plan approval. The developer shall provide the following items to the Planning Commission
for any development located in the R3-Multiple Family Residence District:
a) Building location on the lot, drawn to scale.
b) Building elevations; front, rear and side.
c) Building exterior materials and color.
d) Locations of ingress and egress points.
e) Dumpster and solid waste pick-up areas and proposed screening material.
f) Sign location and dimensions.
g) Lighting standard and hood detail.
h) Parking and loading areas identified.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.38-7
i) Drainage by the use of arrows and/or contours.
j) Screening of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment.
k) Landscaping material including the location, type of plant and size.
l) Fire hydrant and fire lane locations.
m) Utility locations.
n) A description of provisions which shall be made on the site for adequate open
space and recreational areas to properly serve residents of the facility.
o) Any other fencing, screening, or building accessories to be located in the
development area.
p) When required, evidence of completion of National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) permitting program and/or the City of St. Joseph
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP).
q) If applicable, evidence of compliance with federal, state and local pollution and
nuisance laws and regulations, including, but not limited to glare, smoke, dust,
odors and noise. The burden of proof for compliance with appropriate standards
shall lie with the applicant.
r) Required Fee/Agreement.
1. Payment Required. Any person filing a petition requesting development
plan review shall pay a fee according to the schedule established by the
City Council.
2. Amount. Fees payable under this section for development plan review
shall be in an amount as established by resolution of the City Council.
Preparation and review of all elements of the required development plan,
as listed and described above, is to be at the sole expense of the developer
and at no expense to the public. The fee is payable at the time of filing a
petition and is not refundable. In addition to the above fees and in the
event the City incurs professional fees, either legal, engineering or
professional planners, or any other cost, including but not limited to,
postage and publication expenses, the applicants shall reimburse the City
for those fees, and the City officials may require an escrow deposit,
cashier’s check or letter of credit for these fees prior to the final action on
the application for development plan review. Such escrow or letter of
credit shall be in the form approved by the City Attorney.
3. Development Agreement. In the event additional review by the City or its
assigns is anticipated and/or needed during implementation of
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.38-8
Development Plan, or other similar circumstance, the City shall require the
property owner(s) and/or developer(s) enter into a development agreement
with the City. The development agreement shall stipulate the conditions
for approval and the City's authority to inspect the development. The
agreement shall further require the owner or developer, as the case may
require, furnish a cashier's check, escrow account or irrevocable letter of
credit in favor of the City in an amount equal to 110% of all costs
associated with City’s review of the development, including but not
limited to, engineering, legal, fiscal and administrative, as estimated by the
City. Such escrow or letter of credit shall be in the form approved by the
City Attorney, shall be conditioned upon the approval of the development
plan.
Subd. 13: Additional Requirements. Uses may be subject to additional requirements
contained in this Ordinance including, but not limited to the sections governing parking, home
occupation, floodplain, signs, etc.
a) A Lock Box shall be installed on all buildings before a Certificate of Occupancy
will be issued.
Subd. 14: Regulation of Activities Adjacent to Wetlands.
a) The following activity shall be subject to a 50 foot setback from wetlands: The
construction or maintenance of a building attached to a foundation, including but
not limited to, pole buildings. For purposes of this paragraph, pump houses,
moveable storage sheds, recreational docks and storm water or erosion control
devices shall not be considered buildings.
b) The following activity shall be subject to a 75 foot setback from wetlands: The
construction or maintenance of paved driveways or areas designed for the parking
of a vehicle or trailer.
c) The following activities shall be subject to a 100 foot setback from wetlands:
1. The construction or maintenance of a well used for agricultural irrigation,
or any well less than 50 feet in depth.
2. External storage of materials used in conjunction with industrial or
commercial processing or manufacturing.
3. The storage of waste or refuse generated by industrial or commercial
activities.
4. The construction or maintenance of a septic system.
Subd. 15: PUD. In the event a developer requests a multiple dwelling structure
containing more than twelve (12) units under Subdivision 2(a) of this Section, that developer
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.38-9
shall abide by the requirements set forth in the PUD Ordinance of Section 502.09, except that the
provision requiring a minimum of twenty (20) acres will not apply.
a) If land is rezoned as an R3-PUD under this Section, a developer shall have no
longer than one year in which to begin construction of the multiple dwelling
structure. If the project has not begun within one year from the date of rezoning,
the land shall revert back to its prior zoning classification before the request for
the R3-PUD.
502.38, Subd. 15 added 4/2004.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.42-1
Section 52002.42: R-4: TOWNHOUSE/PATIO HOME RESIDENTIAL DISTRICT
Subd. 1: Intent: It is the intent of the R-4 Townhouse/Patio Home District to
accommodate a variety of single-family housing types, including patio homes and single-family
common wall attached housing units such as townhouses or rowhouses at low to moderate
residential densities. The R-4 District is intended for those areas designated as medium and/or
high density residential areas or residential planned unit developments under the Comprehensive
Plan. The R-4 District shall be developed by Planned Unit Development in accordance with the
provisions of this Ordinance 502.09 except that the provision requiring a minimum of twenty
(20) acres will not apply. For the purpose of this ordinance, the following definitions will apply:
a) Patio home: A single-family attached or detached unit constructed on a separate
relatively small lot consisting of one level living area with the ability to have a
bonus room above the garage. open space setbacks on two (2) sides.
b) Rowhouse: One of a series of essentially identical single family residential
structures situated side by side and joined by common walls.
c) Townhouse: A single-family dwelling in a row of at least three (3) such units in
which each unit has its own front and rear access to the outside, no unit is located
over another unit, and each unit is separated from any other unit by one or more
common fire resistant walls.
d) Twin Home: Two dwelling units each located upon separate, abutting lots; each
attached side to side but not having a side yard setback from one lot line; each
sharing only one common, unpierced from ground to roof wall; and separated
from any other building or structure by space on all sides.
Subd. 2: Permitted Uses:
a) Patio homes.
b) Townhouses of not more than two stories each.
c) Row Houses of not more than two stories each.
d) Twin Home
Subd. 3: Conditional Uses Under Special Use Permit: The following uses shall require a
Special Conditional Use Permit based on the procedures set forth in this Ordinance.
a) Governmental and public utility buildings and structures necessary for the health,
safety, and general welfare of the community.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.42-2
b) Public or semi-public recreational buildings and community centers.
c) Licensed day-care centers serving 13 or more persons
d) Licensed residential group care facilities with seven or more boarders.
e) Nursing Homes and Board and Care Homes, provided that adequate parking is
provided and the site is accessible to commercial service areas.
f) Public Libraries
g) Public or private schools, providing, however, that the area and location of any
school and off-street parking heretofore shall be subject to the approval of the
Planning Commission.
h) Churches
i) Institutions of a religious, eleemosynary or philanthropic nature.
j) Nurseries and greenhouses.
k) Planned Unit Residential development
l) Bed and Breakfast
m) Uses which in the judgment of the Planning Commission and City Council are
similar to those listed in this zoning district.
n) Non-owner occupied rental provided the housing is elderly housing.
o) Manufactured homes as defined by this Ordinance.
p) Manufactured Home Parks, in accordance with this Ordinance. Section 502.14
Subd. 4: Permitted Accessory Uses.
a) Private garages, parking spaces and carports for passenger cars, trucks,
recreational vehicles and equipment.
b) Home Occupations per Section 502.16.
c) Houses and similar buildings for storage of domestic equipment and non-
commercial recreational equipment.
d) Swimming Pools, tennis courts, and detached screen porch or gazebo, provided
that the maximum lot coverage requirement is not exceeded. All swimming pools
must be fenced around the perimeter. The fence must meet the requirements of
this Ordinance. 502.12 Subd. 2.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.42-3
e) Fences
f) Accessory building (s) and/or private garage (s), either attached or detached, shall
be subject to the following limitations and the general requirements of this
Ordinance Section 502.12, Subd. 1, except that up to fifteen (15) percent of the
total lot area may be used for accessory buildings for townhouse, group or row
house development.
1. One or two accessory buildings covering a combined area not greater than
1,350 square feet are permitted.
2. The combined area of the lot covered by the accessory buildings
authorized in subparagraph 1 above shall not exceed ten (10) percent of
the total lot size for detached patio homes. The combined area of the lot
covered by the accessory buildings authorized in subparagraph 1 above
shall not exceed fifteen (15) percent of the total lot size for townhouse,
group or rowhouses.
3. Accessory buildings of less than 50 square feet shall not be considered
when computing the limitations of subparagraphs 1 and 2 above; but the
combined area of accessory building of less than 50 square feet shall not
exceed a total of 100 square feet.
4. The principal building shall be constructed prior to or at the same time as
any accessory building or structure.
5. Accessory buildings not specifically permitted by this paragraph shall be
prohibited unless authorized by a variance granted pursuant to Ordinance
502.07.02.
Subd. 5: Lot Area Requirements.
Land Use Minimum Lot Minimum Lot Minimum Lot
Area Width Depth
a) Detached Patio
Home 6,000 60’ 100’
b) Townhouse, group
or row houses 12,000 75’ 120’
c) Churches, chapels,
temples, synagogues 22,000 100’
d) Public Buildings 40,000 100’
e) Day care facilities
serving 15 or more
persons and
residential facilities 9,000 75’ 120’
serving more than 6
persons
f) Schools 22,000 100’ 120’
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.42-4
g) The minimum lot area per townhouse, group or row house unit shall be four
thousand square feet (4,000 sq. ft.)
h) The net housing density within the district is six (6) units per acre of net buildable
area of the subdivision. Net buildable area shall be the total area less public street
right-of-way, wetlands, drainage ways, water bodies and slopes greater than
twelve (12) percent.
Subd. 6: Setback Requirements.
Land Use Front Yard Interior Side Street Side Rear
setback Yard setback Yard setback Yard
setback
a) Patio Home* 30’ 10’ 20’ 20’
b) Townhouse, group
or row houses 30’ 10’ 25’ 20’
c) Churches, chapels,
temples, synagogues 30’ 20’ 30’ 35’
d) Day care facilities
serving 15 or more
persons and 30’ 10’ 25’ 35’
residential facilities
serving more than 6
persons
e) All other uses 50’ 50’ 50’ 50’
f) Accessory Uses Same as Same as Same as Same as
principal principal principal principal 10’
*Attached patio homes would be relieved from the setback requirements where
attachments occur at the lot line.
Subd. 7: Building Requirements.
a) Building Height shall not exceed two (2) stories or 35 feet as measured from the
average grade.
b) No more than 8 dwelling units shall be constructed within one structure.
c) Each dwelling unit shall have two or more individual, separate entrances.
d) All dwelling units shall have a minimum roof pitch of 4:12 as defined by the
building code.
e) All dwelling units shall have a frost free foundation as defined by the building
code, or an engineered concrete slab with concrete above-grade exterior
foundations walls.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.42-5
f) The exterior of townhouse and rowhouse dwelling units shall include a variation
in building materials, which are to be distributed throughout the building facades
and coordinated into the architectural design of the structure to create an
architecturally balanced appearance. The preferred materials are: brick, stucco,
stone, steel/vinyl/aluminum and fiber-cement siding. In addition, a minimum of
25 percent of the combined area of all building facades of a structure shall have
an exterior finish of brick, stucco and/or natural or artificial stone. For the
purpose of this section, the area of the building façade shall not include the area
devoted to windows, entrance doors, garage doors or roof areas.
g) Buildings shall be designed to prevent the appearance of straight, unbroken lines
in their horizontal and vertical surface. There shall be no more than two
contiguous townhouse dwelling units without a break in the horizontal and/or
vertical elevations of at least thirty-two (32) inches.
h) Where more than one (1) principal use building is to be located upon the same
site, the separation between buildings shall not be less than forty (40) feet.
i) Provision shall be made for possible decks, porches or additions as part of the
initial dwelling unit building plans. The site plan for each dwelling unit shall be
configured and sized to include decks, patios or porches.
j) All dwelling units shall have a minimum floor area of 676 square feet.
k) Provisions for shelter in the event of severe weather for each dwelling unit shall
be demonstrated either in the form of the construction of a free-standing severe
weather structure, a reinforced concrete safe room within each dwelling unit
and/or basement/crawl space sufficient to house four (4) adults per dwelling unit.
1. The entrance to a development shall be one that abuts a collector or
arterial road.
Subd. 8: Parking Provisions. All driveways and parking areas shall be hard surfaced and
each dwelling unit shall be provided with a minimum of two parking spaces one of which shall
be in an attached garage.
Subd. 9: Site Coverage. On lots developed for townhouse or rowhouse or attached patio
home units, no structure or combination of structures shall occupy more than 50% of the lot area.
On lots developed for detached patio home units, no structure or combination of structures shall
occupy more than 35% of the lot area.
Subd. 10: Signs. Refer to Ordinance 502.11 Signs.
a) No sign shall be placed closer than ten (10) feet to any property line, except
directional signs which have a zero (0) foot setback.
1. No sign shall be placed in any interior side yard.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.42-6
2. No sign shall be mounted on the roof of a building.
3. No signs shall violate the front, side or rear yard requirements.
4. Signs shall not be placed in the public right-of-way or easements.
5. Flashing or rotating signs resembling emergency vehicles shall not be
permitted.
6. Illuminated signs are not allowed.
b) One unlighted sign per vehicle entrance identifying a dwelling unit complex shall
be allowed. Such signs may indicate the name and address of the building and
rental or management offices.
1. Such signs shall have a surface area of all faces not exceeding an
aggregate of fifty (50) square feet. For complexes of three or more
structures, the aggregate surface area shall not exceed 100 square feet if
double faced.
2. The height of the sign shall not exceed eight feet (8’).
3. Landscaping must be provided around the base of the sign.
c) Wall sign: One wall sign shall be allowed for the purpose of street identification.
Such sign cannot exceed twelve (12) square feet.
e) Sign Removal: All signs not maintained and kept in good repair or otherwise not
in compliance with the St. Joseph Code of Ordinances shall be subject to removal
upon direction of the City Building Inspector.
Subd. 11: Yard Cover. Every yard on a premise on which a dwelling stands shall, within
3 months of issuance of the certificate of occupancy, be provided with lawn or combined lawn
cover of vegetation, gardens, hedges, shrubbery, and related decorative materials and such yards
shall be maintained consistent with prevailing community standards. Motor vehicles may not be
left parked or unattended on or within a yard. Grass shall be maintained so as not to exceed a
height of 6 inches.
Subd. 12: Additional Requirements. Uses may be subject to additional requirements
contained in this Ordinance including, but not limited to the sections governing parking, home
occupation, floodplain, signs.
Subd. 13: Regulation of Activities Adjacent to Wetlands.
a) The following activity shall be subject to a 50 foot setback from wetlands: The
construction or maintenance of a building attached to a foundation, including but
not limited to, pole buildings. For purposes of this paragraph, pump houses,
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.42-7
moveable storage sheds, recreational docks and storm water or erosion control
devices shall not be considered buildings.
b) The following activity shall be subject to a 75-foot setback from wetlands: The
construction or maintenance of paved driveways or areas designed for the parking
of a vehicle or trailer.
Subd. 14: Common Areas. All common areas within an R-4 development, including but
not limited to, open space, wetlands, greenways, drainage ponds, driveway, parking areas, play
areas, etc., shall be owned and maintained by a condominium, association, cooperative or other
common interest community created pursuant to Minnesota Statute, Chapter 515B and approved
by the City Attorney. The agreement shall provide for all exterior building maintenance,
approval of any exterior architectural modifications, landscaping, snow clearing and regular
maintenance of private driveways and other areas owned in common.
Subd. 15: Development Plan Requirements. No building permit shall be issued until the
Planning Commission reviews the development plan to determine that the use and development
is compatible with adjacent land uses, and consistent with the stated intent of this zone. Upon
request of the Planning Commission the City Council will make the final determination of site
plan approval. The developer shall provide the following items to the Planning Commission for
any development located in the R-4 Townhouse Residence District.
a) Building location on the lot, drawn to scale.
b) Building elevations; front, rear and side
c) Building exterior materials and color
d) Locations of ingress and egress points
e) Landscaping material including location, type of plan and size.
f) Fire hydrant and fire lane locations
g) Utility locations
h) A description of provisions which shall be made on site for adequate open space,
recreational areas, transit options, etc. to properly serve residents of the facility
including a discussion of the perceived needs of the residents (i.e. senior citizens,
students, families with children)
i) A copy of proposed covenants and/or homeowner’s association agreement (s).
j) Any other fencing, screening, or building accessories to be located in the
development area.
k) When required, evidence of completion of National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) permitting program and/or the City of St. Joseph
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP).
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.42-8
l) If applicable, evidence of compliance with federal, state and local pollution and
nuisance laws and regulations, including, but not limited to glare, smoke, dust,
odors and noise. The burden of proof for compliance with appropriate standards
shall lie with the applicant.
m) Required Fee / Agreement
1. Payment Required. Any person filing a petition requesting development
plan review shall pay a fee according to the schedule established by the
City Council.
2. Amount. Fees payable under this section for development plan review
shall be in the amount as established by resolution of the City Council.
Preparation and review of all elements of the required development plan,
as listed and described above, is to be at the sole expense of the developer
and at no expense to the public. The fee is payable at the time of filing a
petition and is not refundable. In addition to the above fees and in the
event the City incurs professional fees, either legal, engineering or
professional planners, or any other costs including but not limited to,
postage and publication expenses, the applicants shall reimburse the City
for those fees, and the City Officials may require an escrow deposit,
cashier’s check or letter of credit for these fees prior to the final action on
the application for development plan review. Such escrow or letter of
credit shall be in the form approved by the City Attorney.
3. Development Agreement. In the event additional review by the City or its
assigns is anticipated and/or needed during implementation of
Development Plan, or other similar circumstance, the City shall require the
property owner (s) and/or developer (s) enter into a development
agreement with the City. The Development Agreement shall stipulate the
conditions for approval and the City’s authority to inspect the
development. The agreement shall further require the owner or developer,
as the case may require, furnish a cashier’s check, escrow amount or
irrevocable letter of credit in favor of the City in an amount equal to 125%
of all costs associated with the City’s review of the development,
including but not limited to, engineering, legal, fiscal and administrative,
as estimated by the City. Such escrow or letter of credit shall be in the
form approved by the City Attorney, shall be conditioned upon the
approval of the development plan.
502.42 Added to Code 4/2005 (Subsequent Sections renumbered)
502.42 Subd. 1 Revised 6/2008
ORDINANCE # _______
AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 5, ORDINANCE 520, THE CITY’S ZONING
ORDINANCE.
IT IS HEREBY ORDAINED BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF ST JOSEPH
MINNESOTA:
Adding, Section 520.46 R-5 Supportive Care District to read as follows:
Section 502.46: R-5 SUPPORTIVE CARE DISTRICT
Subd. 1: Intent. The Supportive Care District is intended to provide continuing housing
from independent to full care and for high quality mixed use development, including medium
and high density residential, such as patio homes, townhomes, and other senior multi-family
housing and limited commercial uses, such offices, retail, and dining.
Subd. 2: Permitted Uses.
a) Patio homes, twin home or two family dwellings for seniors age 55 and older.
b) Townhomes for seniors age 55 and older. Each unit must have a separate entrance
to front and rear yards. Units may be clustered but no more than six (6) units
connected in a cluster.
c) Multiple-family dwelling structures for seniors age 55 or older.
d) Independent Living Facilities.
b) Parks and playgrounds.
e) Hospitals, extended care centers, nursing homes, group care centers or assisted
living centers.
f) Places of worship.
Subd. 3: Permitted Accessory Uses.
a) Any combination of the following uses open to the public provided all accessory
uses combined do not exceed 25% of the aggregate square footage of the principal
structure: book stores, gift shops, banks, insurance offices, bakeries, candy, ice
cream, coffee, and delicatessen shops, restaurants, grocer, convenient and drug
stores, clinics, state licensed day care facility and similar uses.
b) Private garages, parking spaces for passenger cars, trucks, recreational vehicles
and equipment. Developments with three (3) or less units shall abide by the R-1
accessory building provisions, including but not limited to the maximum lot
coverage requirements.
c) Home occupations.
e) Swimming pools and tennis courts, provided that the maximum lot coverage
requirement is not exceeded. All swimming pools must be fenced around the
perimeter. The fence must meet the requirements of this Ordinance.
f) Residential communal facilities such as laundry, recreation buildings, and
residential leasing office.
g) Fences in compliance with this Ordinance.
Subd. 4: Lot Area Requirements for Patio Homes, Townhomes and Twin Homes.
Land Use Minimum Lot Minimum Lot Minimum Lot
Area Width Depth
a) Detached Patio
Home 6,000 SF 60’ 100’
b) Townhome 12,000 SF 75’ 120’
c) Two Family and
Attached Patio Home 10,000 SF 75’ 125’
d) The minimum lot area per townhouse, group or row house unit shall be four
thousand square feet (4,000 sq. ft.)
h) The net housing density within the district is six (6) units per acre of net buildable
area of the subdivision. Net buildable area shall be the total area less public street
right-of-way, wetlands, drainage ways, water bodies and slopes greater than
twelve (12) percent.
d) Total building coverage shall not occupy more than 35% of the lot. Impervious
surfaces shall not exceed 50% of the lot area. Impervious surfaces shall include
all structures, parking spaces, patios, and driveways.
Subd. 6: Lot Area Requirements for Multiple-Family Structures, excluding patio homes,
townhomes and twin homes.
a) Minimum lot area shall be 12,000 square feet.
b) For the basis of computing the number of permitted units within a multiple
residence the following shall apply:
1. Efficiency unit for each 2,000 square feet of lot area; and
2. One 1 bedroom unit for each 3,000 square feet of lot area; and
3. One 2 bedroom unit for each 3,500 square feet of lot area; and
4. One 3 bedroom unit for each 4,000 square feet of lot area;
5. For each additional bedroom (over 3) per unit, an additional 500 square
feet of lot area.
c) Total building coverage shall not occupy more than 35% of the lot. Impervious
surfaces shall not exceed 50% of the lot area. Impervious surfaces shall include
all structures, parking spaces, patios, and driveways.
d) Each lot shall have a minimum width of 150 feet at the building setback line.
e) Each lot shall have a minimum width of 80 feet at the public right-of-way.
Subd. 6: Setback Requirements. Except for setbacks along the common property for
attached dwellings, all other setbacks shall be met.
Land Use Front Yard Interior Side Street Side Rear
setback Yard setback Yard setback Yard
setback
a) Patio Home 30’ 10’ 20’ 20’
b) Townhouse, group
or row houses 30’ 10’ 25’ 20’
c) Two-Family 30’ 10’ 30’ 20’
e) All other uses 35’ 20’ 30’ 40’
f) In the event that a multi-family structure greater than six (6) units and/or thirty-five
(35) feet high and/or commercial use abuts a lower density residential use, all principal
structures shall be setback 50 feet from the property line and all detached structures shall
be setback 30 feet from the property line.
Subd. 7: Height Requirements.
a) Patio Home, Two-Family Home, Twin Home, Townhome: 35 feet
b) All other uses: 3 stories, 40 feet
Subd. 8: Exterior Requirements. All exterior wall finishes on any building shall include
at least one material from each of the following groups:
a) Face brick, natural stone, wood textured precast concrete panels, textured
concrete block, stucco.
b) Pre-finished decorative panels made of metal, vinyl, steel or wood.
Subd. 9: Yard Cover. Every yard on a premise on which a dwelling stands shall be
provided with lawn or combined lawn cover of vegetation, gardens, hedges, shrubbery, and
related decorative materials and such yards shall be maintained consistent with prevailing
community standards. Motor vehicles may not be left parked or unattended on or within a yard.
Grass shall be maintained so not to exceed a height of 6 inches.
Subd. 10: Building Requirements.
a) Provisions for shelter in the event of severe weather for each dwelling unit shall
be demonstrated either in the form of the construction of a free-standing severe
weather structure, a reinforced concrete safe room within each dwelling unit
and/or basement/crawl space sufficient to house four (4) adults per dwelling unit.
b) Each patio home shall have a two-car garage. The garage space shall not be
eliminated by enclosing the garage with a stationary wall.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
520.5002.46-1
Section 520.5002.46: B-1 CENTRAL BUSINESS DISTRICT
Subd. 1: Intent. The Central Business District has been established to encourage the
continuation of a viable downtown by promoting uses dependent of high volumes of pedestrian
traffic; to provide for regulation of the high intensity commercial uses located within the original
core of the City; and, to encourage parks/greenspace in the downtown. The Central Business
District provides space for concentrated general business and commercial activities at locations
where they are easily accessible to residential areas and, at the same time, minimizing negative
impacts to residential neighborhoods.
Subd. 2: Permitted Uses. The following uses shall be permitted within the Central
Business District:
a) Antique stores.
b) Appliance stores.
c) Apparel shops.
d) Artisan shops.
e) Bakery goods, sales and baking of goods on premises.
f) Barber and beauty salons.
g) Bicycle sales and repairs.
h) Book stores.
i) Boutiques.
j) Business/professional offices.
k) Coffee shops.
l) Farmers market for the sale of produce only. Notification and the submittal of a
plan to the Planning Commission is required.
m) Financial institutions, including insurance companies.
n) Florist.
o) Fruit, vegetable and meat stores.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
520.5002.46-2
p) Government buildings.
q) Grocery and drug stores, not more than 10,000 square feet in size.
r) Hardware stores, not more than 10,000 square feet in size.
s) Hobby shops and gift stores.
t) Interior design services, including floor and wall covering stores.
u) Jewelry sales and service.
v) Laundry and dry-cleaning services.
w) Library.
x) Medical, optical and dental clinics.
y) Parks and Open Spaces.
z) Pet shops, excluding kennel services.
aa) Photograph sales and repair.
bb) Record and video stores.
cc) Restaurants, coffee shops, excluding drive-in service.
dd) Sporting goods stores.
ee) Postal facilities
ff) Other use determined by the Planning Commission to be of the same character as
contained in this Subdivision.
Subd. 3: Special Conditional Uses. The following uses shall require a Special
Conditional Use Permit based on the procedures set forth in Section 502.07.03 of as provided for
in this Ordinance.
a) Convenience stores, excluding fueling facilities.
b) State licensed day care and nursery school facilities provided that:
1. Adequate off-street parking and loading is provided, and;
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
520.5002.46-3
2. The facility meets all State licensing requirements pursuant to Minnesota
Statutes 245A.02 and 45A.11.
c) Motor vehicle service stations.
d) Bars and liquor stores.
e) Auto, service and repair shops.
f) Mixed use of a Permitted Use and a multiple residential dwelling units; but only if
at least 50% of the interior square footage (exclusive of the basement or cellar) is
used full time for a Permitted Use, and said permitted and residential uses are not
conflicting. The area consisting of multiple residential dwelling units must meet
the standards of Section 502.38, Subd. 5 and 6; and said residential uses occupy
only the upper and/or rear portions of structures. Off-street parking requirements
shall be separately determined for the commercial and residential uses in
accordance with Section 502.10.
g) Lodge.
h) Commercial Planned Unit Developments.
i) Other uses determined by the Planning Commission to be of the same character as
contained in this Subdivision.
Subd. 4: Permitted Accessory Uses. The following uses shall be permitted as an
Accessory Use in the Central Business District.
a) Commercial or business building for a use accessory to the principal use, not to
exceed 50 percent of the size of principal building.
b) Business identification sSigns as regulated in this Ordinance. Section 502.11.
c) Temporary buildings for construction purposes for a period not to exceed
construction.
d) Off-street loading and parking areas.
e) Signs that meet the criteria of Subdivision 9 of this section Ordinance.
Subd. 5: Setback Requirements.
a) Front yard setbacks shall be ten (10) feet from the lot line. If the building front is
located on Minnesota Street from College Avenue to Second Street Northwest, no
front yard setback is required.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
520.5002.46-4
b) Side yard setback shall be five (5) feet from the lot line. No structure shall be
placed closer than twenty (20) feet from the boundary of any residential district. If
the building front is located on Minnesota Street from College Avenue to Second
Street Northwest, no side yard setback is required.
c) Rear yard setback shall be five (5) feet from the lot line, except:
1. Where a lot abuts an alley, the rear yard setback shall be ten (10) feet;
2. Where a lot abuts a residential district, the rear yard setback shall be
twenty (20) feet.
Subd. 6: Height Requirements. Any portion of a structure shall not exceed 3 stories or 40
feet in height. Berming the building does not allow a building to be constructed higher than 35
40 feet. Elevation for the building shall be determined by the average grade of the land.
Sudd. 7: Building Materials. The exterior surface of all buildings and structures must be
constructed of one of, or a combination of, the following building materials.
(a) Brick or face brick including textured, burnished and colored block;
(b) Specially designed precast concrete units if the surfaces have been
integrally treated with an applied decorative material or texture (excluding
raw concrete block painted or unpainted or ceramic faced);
(c) Wood;
(d) Natural or cut stone;
(e) Glass or any combination thereof;
(f) Stucco;
(g) Pre-finished architectural metal panels when utilized for accent and/or
architectural components of buildings such as the entry or entry
appendage, a required enclosure or screen or architectural roofing as an
intended designed accent (not to exceed 15% of the exposed wall area on
any two visible sides of the building).
h. Any other materials approved by the City Council after a review and
recommendation by the Planning Commission, including but not limited to
durable decorative synthetic material or concrete composite material found
to be comparable or superior which mimic the appearance of other
approved materials.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
520.5002.46-5
5. Roof Materials. All roofs which are exposed to a view or are an integral part of a
Building’s aesthetics will be constructed only of commercial grade asphalt
shingles, wood shingles, standing seam metal, slate, tile or copper. The City
Council may consider green roof options that reduce stormwater runoff and
improve water quality.
Subd. 7: Other Requirements.
a) Before the issuance of a building permit, all buildings constructed in the Central
Business District must have a landscape plan approved by the Planning
Commission.
b) Before the issuance of a building permit all buildings constructed, or undergoing
exterior renovation or remodeling in the Central Business District must have the
exterior finish design and materials approved by the Planning Commission.
c) Where a use exists pursuant to a special use permit in conjunction with a
permitted use, the required parking shall be computed for the permitted use and
special use separately with adequate parking required to satisfy both uses.
d) No outdoor storage shall be allowed.
e) Single tenant retail buildings shall not exceed 10,000 square feet.
f) A Lock Box shall be installed on all buildings before a certificate of occupancy
will be issued.
Subd. 8: Site Coverage. No structure or combination of structures shall occupy more
than 90 percent of the lot area.
Subd. 9: Signs. Refer to Ordinance 502.11 Signs.In the Central Business district, the
general provisions apply to all signs:
a) Business signs may be erected and maintained in conjunction with a commercial
use provided:
1. Signs shall have a surface area not exceeding fifty (50) square feet per
sign face with an aggregate total not to exceed 100 square feet if double faced.
2. Such sign except a directional sign, is erected only on the premise on
which the use, to which the sign relates, is conducted.
3. Notwithstanding the above, where to or more separate and individual
businesses are conducting business in separate areas of a single building or structure, in which
each operation owns or leases separate and individual premises, but share in the use and
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
520.5002.46-6
maintenance of common areas within or around the structure, then and in those circumstances,
each individual business operation may be permitted to display an individual business sign as
provided in subdivision a) and b) of this Section, except that said sign must be directly attached
to that particular premises actually occupied by the business operation to which the sign relates.
For the purpose of this subdivision, a combination of two or more business operations within a
single structure includes, but is not limited to, shopping centers, shopping malls, and subdivided
retail, office or industrial buildings offered for lease or condominium ownership.
4. All freestanding Business Signs shall be landscaped around the base.
Except for monument signs, the surface area of the base of any Business Sign shall not exceed
25% of the face area unless structural engineering illustrates the face cannot meet the wind
loading requirement of the Building Code.
502.46, Subd. 9.a. amended 4/2005
(*section subsequently renumbered)
b) Advertising signs or pylon signs shall not be permitted
c) Wall signs shall not project above the roof.
1. That the sign does not exceed one square foot per lineal lot front foot or
fifteen percent (15%) of the building frontage area, or fifty square feet which ever is the lesser.
d) Maximum height of a sign is subject to height requirements stated in Ordinance
502.11.
502.46, Subd. 9d amended 3/2015
e) Sign Removal. All signs not maintained and kept in good repair or in non
compliance of the St. Joseph Code of Ordinances shall be subject to removal upon direction of
the City Building Inspector.
Subd. 10: Development Plan Requirements. All development plans must be submitted to
the Zoning Administrator for review and circulation to the City Engineer and Public Works
Director, and if it is determined that the use and development is consistent with the stated intent
of the zoning district, Planning Commission approval is not required. If the proposed use is not
consistent with the intent of this ordinance or compatible with adjacent land uses, the proposed
development plan will be submitted to the Planning Commission for approval. In determining
conformity to the Ordinance, the following information must be presented to the Zoning
Administrator.
502.46, Subd. 10 amended 4/2005 (*section subsequently renumbered)
Section 502.46 Subd 10 amended 10/10
a) Building location on the lot, drawn to scale.
b) Building elevations; front, rear and side.
c) Building exterior materials and color.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
520.5002.46-7
d) Locations of ingress and egress points.
e) Dumpster and solid waste pick-up areas and proposed screening material.
f) Sign location and dimensions.
g) Lighting standard and hood detail.
h) Parking and loading areas identified.
i) Drainage by the use of arrows and/or contours.
j) Screening of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment.
k) Landscaping material including the location, type of plant and size.
l) Fire hydrant and fire lane locations.
m) Utility locations.
n) Any other fencing, screening, or building accessories to be located in the
development area.
o) When required, evidence of completion of National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) permitting program and/or the City of St. Joseph
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP).
p) If applicable, evidence of compliance with federal, state and local pollution and
nuisance laws and regulations, including, but not limited to glare, smoke, dust,
odors and noise. The burden of proof for compliance with appropriate standards
shall lie with the applicant.
q) Required Fee/Agreement.
1. Payment Required. Any person filing a petition requesting development
plan review shall pay a fee according to the schedule established by the
City Council.
2. Amount. Fees payable under this section for development plan review
shall be in an amount as established by resolution of the City Council.
Preparation and review of all elements of the required development plan,
as listed and described above, is to be at the sole expense of the developer
and at no expense to the public. The fee is payable at the time of filing a
petition and is not refundable. In addition to the above fees and in the
event the City incurs professional fees, either legal, engineering or
professional planners, or any other cost, including but not limited to,
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
520.5002.46-8
postage and publication expenses, the applicants shall reimburse the City
for those fees, and the City officials may require an escrow deposit,
cashier’s check or letter of credit for these fees prior to the final action on
the application for development plan review. Such escrow or letter of
credit shall be in the form approved by the City Attorney.
3. Development Agreement. In the event additional review by the City or its
assigns is anticipated and/or needed during implementation of
Development Plan, or other similar circumstance, the City shall require the
property owner(s) and/or developer(s) enter into a development agreement
with the City. The development agreement shall stipulate the conditions
for approval and the City's authority to inspect the development. The
agreement shall further require the owner or developer, as the case may
require, furnish a cashier's check, escrow account or irrevocable letter of
credit in favor of the City in an amount equal to 110% of all costs
associated with City’s review of the development, including but not
limited to, engineering, legal, fiscal and administrative, as estimated by the
City. Such escrow or letter of credit shall be in the form approved by the
City Attorney, shall be conditioned upon the approval of the development
plan.
Subd. 11: Additional Requirements. Uses may be subject to additional requirements
contained in this Ordinance including, but not limited to the sections governing parking, home
occupation, floodplain, signs, etc.
Subd. 12. Regulation of Activities Adjacent to Wetlands.
a) The following activity shall be subject to a 50 foot setback from wetlands: The
construction or maintenance of a building attached to a foundation, including but
not limited to, pole buildings. For purposes of this paragraph, pump houses,
moveable storage sheds, recreational docks and storm water or erosion control
devices shall not be considered buildings.
b) The following activity shall be subject to a 75 foot setback from wetlands: The
construction or maintenance of paved driveways or areas designed for the parking
of a vehicle or trailer.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
520.5002.46-9
c) The following activities shall be subject to a 100 foot setback from wetlands:
1. The construction or maintenance of a well used for agricultural irrigation,
or any well less than 50 feet in depth.
2. External storage of materials used in conjunction with industrial or
commercial processing or manufacturing.
3. The storage of waste or refuse generated by industrial or commercial
activities.
4. The construction or maintenance of a septic system.
Subd. 13: Interim Use Permit for Rental Units.
a) Residential units in areas that have been rezoned to commercial from residential
shall be allowed an interim use permit as a rental unit for a specific period of
time. The maximum density for rental units under the interim use permit shall be
limited to the density which is allowed in the R-1, Single Family Residential
District.
b) The interim use as a rental unit shall be obtained through the interim use
procedures set forth in this Ordinance. St. Joseph Ordinance 502.07, Subd. 4 –
Interim Use Permit.
c) In requesting such an interim rental use, the landowner agrees to any conditions
that the governing body deems appropriate for permission of the use and agrees
that the use will terminate at the designated date for termination of the interim
use.
d) Public hearings shall be held as set forth in this Ordinance 502.07, Subd. 4.
502.46, Subd. 13, added 1/07
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.540-1
Section 52002.540: B-2 HIGHWAY 75 BUSINESS DISTRICT
Subd. 1: Intent. The Highway 75 Business District is intended to control the use and
development of land and improvements by creating a mixed land use district near and adjacent to
the County State Aid Highway 75 corridor in the City of St. Joseph. This shall be done by
allowing for a mixture of land uses and by establishing stringent standards for development. This
section shall be administered in a manner which will encourage and promote high-value
development in a manner similar to a planned unit development, taking full advantage of the
City’s highway location. It is also the purpose of the Highway 75 Business District that a
pleasant, attractive, and aesthetically pleasing environment be developed.
Subd. 2: Permitted Uses. The following uses are permitted:
a) Business Services
1. Banks
2. Office space
b) Food Services.
1. Grocery stores
2. Supermarkets
3. Restaurants, except drive-thru restaurants
4. Delicatessen
5. Bakeries whose product is sold at retail on premises
c) Personal Services.
1. Multiple Retail
2. Drug stores
3. Hardware stores
4. Book stores
5. Discount (‘Big Box’) retail stores
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.540-2
6. Retail apparel stores
7. Flower shops
8. Beauty shops and salons
9. Photography shops and studios
10. Funeral homes
d) Medical Services.
1. Medical clinics
2. Dental clinics
3. Veterinary clinics
4. Other institutions providing health care.
e) Movie and Performing Arts Theaters.
f) Other use determined by the Planning Commission to be of the same character as
contained in this Subdivision.
Section 502.32 Subd 2 amended 10/10 (section subsequently numbered)
Subd. 3: Permitted Accessory Uses. The following uses shall be permitted as an
Accessory Use in the Highway 75 Business District and subject to all the requirements in this
Section:
a) Commercial or business building for a use accessory to the principal use, not to
exceed 30% percent of the size of principal structure and the height of the
principal structure.
b) Signs as regulated in this Ordinance. which meet the criteria of Subdivision 9 of
this section.
c) Temporary buildings for construction purposes for a period not to exceed
construction.
d) Off-street loading and parking areas, subject to applicable section(s) of this
Ordinance.
e) Fences, landscaping.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.540-3
Subd. 4: Conditional Uses Under Special Use Permit. The following uses shall require a
Special Conditional Use Permit based on the procedures set forth in Section 502.07.03 of as
provided for in this Ordinance:
a) Auto malls and/or automobile service and gas stations, provided that:
1. Motor fuel facilities are installed in accordance with state and city
standards.
2. Adequate space shall be provided to access gas pumps and allow
maneuverability around the pumps. Underground fuel storage tanks are
to be positioned to allow adequate access by motor fuel transports and
unloading operations minimize conflict with circulation, access and other
activities on the site.
3. Wherever fuel pumps are to be installed, pump islands shall be installed.
4. A protective canopy located over the pump island(s) may be an accessory
structure on the property; however, adequate visibility both on and off
site shall be maintained.
5. An internal site pedestrian circulation system shall be defined and
appropriate provisions made to protect such areas from encroachments by
parked cars or moving vehicles.
b) Office warehousing.
c) Lawn and garden temporary sales area.
d) Lumber yards and home improvement retail centers.
e) New or used auto dealerships.
f) Stone building material sales and service.
g) Recreational vehicle sales and services.
h) Transportation terminals, public utility and transfer stations, without storage
yards.
i) Equipment Services.
1. Radio and television shops
2. Appliance repair shops
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.540-4
3. Appliance show rooms
j) Recreational Services.
1. Theaters
2. Bowling establishments
3. Clubs and lodges
k) Hotels
l) Motels
m) Drive-through and convenience food establishments, provided that an internal site
pedestrian circulation system shall be defined and appropriate provisions made to
protect such areas from encroachments by parked cars or moving vehicles.
n) Commercial car washes (drive through, self-service and mechanical) provided
that stacking space is constructed, subject to approval by the City Engineer, to
accommodate that number of vehicles which can be washed during a maximum
thirty (30) minute period.
o) Convenience Store with gasoline, provided that:
1. The sale of food items is in compliance with state and county standards
and subject to the approval of a Health Inspector who shall provide
specific written sanitary requirements for each proposed sale location.
2. The approximate area and location devoted to non-automotive
merchandise sales shall be specified in general terms in the application.
3. Motor fuel facilities are installed in accordance with state standards.
Adequate space shall be provided to access gas pumps and allow
maneuverability around the pumps. Underground fuel storage tanks are to
be positioned to allow adequate access by motor fuel transports and
unloading operations minimize conflict with circulation, access and other
activities on the site.
4. Wherever fuel pumps are to be installed, pump islands shall be installed.
5. A protective canopy located over the pump island(s) may be an accessory
structure on the property however adequate visibility both on and off site
shall be maintained.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.540-5
6. An internal site pedestrian circulation system shall be defined and
appropriate provisions made to protect such areas from encroachments by
parked cars or moving vehicles.
p) Postal Stations
q) Uses determined to be of a similar nature as those permitted under Subd. 1, upon
a finding that the uses will not be detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of
the City, and that the use is consistent with the stated intent of the zone as
contained in Subd. 1.
Subd. 5: Conditions Applicable to All Special Conditional Use Permits. The following
conditions are applicable to all uses under a special conditional use permit:
a) When abutting a residential use in a residential use district, the property is
adequately screened and landscaped.
b) Parking areas shall be screened from the view of abutting residential districts.
c) Vehicular access points shall be limited, shall create minimal conflict with
through traffic movements, shall comply with all appropriate Chapters of this
Ordinance as may be amended and shall be subject to the approval of the City
Engineer.
d) Provisions are made to control and reduce noise in accordance with MPCA
standards.
e) The entire site other than that taken up by a building, structure or plantings shall
be surfaced so as to control dust subject to the approval of the City Engineer.
f) The entire area shall have a drainage system subject to the approval of the City
Engineer.
g) The architectural appearance and functional plan of the building and site shall not
be so dissimilar to the existing buildings or area so as to cause impairment in
property values or constitute a blighting influence within a reasonable distance of
the lot.
h) All outdoor storage shall be completely screened from view.
Subd. 6: Interim Uses Under Interim Use Permit: The following uses shall require an
Interim Use Permit based on the procedures set forth in Section 502.07.04 of as provided for in
this Ordinance:
a) Farmers Market/Outdoor Market – a publicly or privately operated, open-air
establishment where agricultural or new or used projects are sold.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.540-6
1. A site plan shall be provided illustrating that the location of the
temporary/seasonal market meets all required parking lot setbacks and all
other setbacks. The site plan shall be a scaled and dimensioned site plan
showing the layout of the entire market area including parking spaces for
the use, traffic patterns and stall areas.
2. Any temporary structure placed on the property for such sales must be
removed at the end of the selling season or sale. The size of a temporary
building shall not exceed 120 square feet per vendor.
3. The Interim Use Permit shall be obtained through the interim use
procedures set forth in this Ordinance. St. Joseph Ordinances 502.07 Subd.
4 – Interim Use Permits.
b) Rental Units.
1. Residential units in areas that have been rezoned to commercial from
residential may be eligible for an Interim Use Permit as a rental unit for a
specific period of time. The maximum density for rental units under the
Interim Use Permit shall be limited to the density which is allowed in the
R-1 Single Family Residential District.
2. The Interim Use as a rental shall be obtained through the interim use
procedures set forth in St. Joseph this Ordinance. 502.07, Subd. 4 –
Interim Use Permit.
3. In requesting such an interim rental use, the landowner agrees to any
conditions that the governing body deems appropriate for permission of
the use and agrees that the use will terminate at the designated date for
termination of the interim use.
4. Public hearings shall be held as set forth in this Ordinance. 502.07 Subd.
4.
Section 502.32 Subd 6 amended 10/10 (following Subd subsequently numbered)
Subd. 7: Setback Requirements.
a) Lot Size. Minimum lot size is 10,000 square feet with a minimum width of 100
feet, except lots platted prior to 1950.
b) Property adjacent to County State Aid Highway 75. Shall have a ten (10) foot
landscaped setback from the highway right-of-way line. Any structure shall have
a twenty (20) foot setback from the highway right-of-way.
c) Front yard. Setback shall be twenty (20) feet from the lot line.
d) Side yard. Setback shall be ten (10) feet from the lot line. If the property’s side
yard is adjacent to County State Aid Highway 75, the setback shall conform to
Subd. 5(a) of this Section.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.540-7
e) Rear yard. Setback shall be ten (10) feet from the lot line, 35 feet if abutting a
residential district.
f) No part of the structure including footings, soffits, gutters or other overhangs shall
encroach on easement areas.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.540-8
Subd. 7: Height Requirements.
a) Any portion of a structure shall not exceed 3 stories or 40 feet in height. Berming
the building does not allow a building to be constructed higher than 40 feet.
Elevation for the building shall be determined by the average grade of the land.
Subd. 8: Site Coverage. No structure or combination of structures shall occupy more
than 60 percent of the lot area.
Subd. 9: Other Requirements.
a) Parking Lots. All parking lots shall conform to the standards set forth in this
Ordinance. Section 502.10. All lots shall include parking controls and other
landscaping techniques to improve their aesthetic quality and to direct the flow of
traffic.
b) Loading Docks. All loading docks shall conform to the standards set forth in this
Ordinance. Section 502.10. No loading docks or overhead doors shall directly
face County State Aid Highway 75.
c) Building Exteriors. All construction of new facilities, excluding additions to
existing facility constructed before this provision was adopted and the addition is
less than 50% of the square feet of the original building, shall consist of pre-cast
or cast tip up concrete walls, concrete block (painted or decorative), post
frame/steel frame with a concrete block or poured concrete complete perimeter
foundation with frost footings extending a minimum of eight inches (8”) above
the final grade, and stick built construction.
Pre-finished architectural metal panels, with a minimum twenty (20) year
manufacturer color-fast warranty, may be used as a construction material. The
exterior building finish of thirty (30%) percent of all four sides of the structure,
exclusive of windows and doors, shall consist of materials comparable to: face
brick; natural stone or cultured rock; glass; vinyl; stucco, aluminum lapsiding; cut
block; and, concrete block (the surface must be treated with an applied decorative
texture or material). Pre-cast or cast in place concrete buildings shall provide as
much adornment as is possible considering their exterior finish limitations.
Accessory Buildings located in the rear yard or behind the principal structure, and
not visible from the public right-of-way must have an exterior harmonious with
the principal structure, all other accessory buildings must meet the 30%
adornment requirement stated above.
d) Roof Materials. Commercial grade asphalt shingles, wood shingles, standing seam
pre-finished architectural metal, slate, tile or copper. Flat roofs are exempt from
this requirement.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.540-9
d) Screening. All heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment, and refuse
storage areas shall be screened and in a suitable location as determined by the
Planning Commission.
e) Lighting. All lighting shall be hooded and no light may directly strike County
State Aid Highway 75 or areas outside of the development.
f) Stops and Curbs. Concrete curb to B-612 specifications shall be used for all
automobile stops and for all drive and parking areas.
g) Landscaping. In addition to requirements relating to parking lots, the
Development Plan shall show a unified landscaping scheme for the development.
Subd. 9 Updated 11/2013
h) Signs . All proposed business signs shall be an element of the Development Plan.
All signs shall conform to the Subd. 10 of this Section.
i) A Lock Box shall be installed on all buildings before a certificate of occupancy
will be issued.
Subd. 10: Development Plan Requirements. All Development plans must be submitted to
the Zoning Administrator for review and circulation to the City Engineer and Public Works
Director, and if it is determined that the use and development is compatible with adjacent land
uses, and consistent with the stated intent of the zoning district, Planning Commission approval
is not required. If the proposed use is not consistent with the intent of this ordinance or
compatible with adjacent land uses, the proposed development plan will be submitted to the
Planning Commission for approval. In determining conformity to the Ordinance, the following
information must be presented to the Zoning Administrator.
502.31, Subd.9 amended 4/2005 (*section subsequently renumbered)
Section 502.32 Subd 10 amended 10/10
a) Building location on the lot, drawn to scale.
b) Building elevations; front, rear and side
c) Building exterior materials and color.
d) Locations of ingress and egress points.
e) Dumpster and solid waste pick-up areas and proposed screening material.
f) Sign location and dimensions.
g) Lighting standard and hood detail.
h) Parking and loading areas identified.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.540-10
i) Drainage by the use of arrows and/or contours.
j) Screening of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment.
k) Landscaping material including the location, type of plant and size.
l) Fire hydrant and fire lane locations.
m) Utility locations.
n) Any other fencing, screening, or building accessories to be located in the
development area.
o) When required, evidence of completion of National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) permitting program and/or the City of St. Joseph
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP).
p) If applicable, evidence of compliance with federal, state and local pollution and
nuisance laws and regulations, including, but not limited to glare, smoke, dust,
odors and noise. The burden of proof for compliance with appropriate standards
shall lie with the applicant.
q) Required Fee/Agreement.
1. Payment Required. Any person filing a petition requesting development
plan review shall pay a fee according to the schedule established by the
City Council.
2. Amount. Fees payable under this section for development plan review
shall be in an amount as established by resolution of the City Council.
Preparation and review of all elements of the required development plan,
as listed and described above, is to be at the sole expense of the developer
and at no expense to the public. The fee is payable at the time of filing a
petition and is not refundable. In addition to the above fees and in the
event the City incurs professional fees, either legal, engineering or
professional planners, or any other cost, including but not limited to,
postage and publication expenses, the applicants shall reimburse the City
for those fees, and the City officials may require an escrow deposit,
cashier’s check or letter of credit for these fees prior to the final action on
the application for development plan review. Such escrow or letter of
credit shall be in the form approved by the City Attorney.
3. Development Agreement. In the event additional review by the City or its
assigns is anticipated and/or needed during implementation of
Development Plan, or other similar circumstance, the City shall require the
property owner(s) and/or developer(s) enter into a development agreement
with the City. The development agreement shall stipulate the conditions
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.540-11
for approval and the City's authority to inspect the development. The
agreement shall further require the owner or developer, as the case may
require, furnish a cashier's check, escrow account or irrevocable letter of
credit in favor of the City in an amount equal to 110% of all costs
associated with City’s review of the development, including but not
limited to, engineering, legal, fiscal and administrative, as estimated by the
City. Such escrow or letter of credit shall be in the form approved by the
City Attorney, shall be conditioned upon the approval of the development
plan.
Subd. 11: Signs. In the B-2 Highway 75 Business district the general provisions apply to
all signs.
a) Business and Wall signs may be erected, attached or painted on to a structure and
Advertising signs shall be prohibited. They are defined as follows:
1. Business Sign. A sign that is related to the business located on the same
property to which it is located.
2. Wall Sign. A sign painted or placed against or attached to the exterior
wall surface of a building or structure.
3. Advertising Sign. A sign which directs attention to a business, profession,
commodity, service or entertainment which is sold or offered on a premise
other than that on which the sign is located.
b) Business signs may be erected, attached or painted on to a structure, and
maintained in conjunction with a commercial use provided:
1. Signs shall have a surface area not exceeding one hundred square feet per
sign face with an aggregate total not to exceed two hundred (200) square
feet if double faced.
2. Such sign except a directional sign, is erected only on the premise on
which the use, to which the sign relates, is conducted.
3. Notwithstanding the above, where two or more separate and individual
businesses are conducting business in separate areas of a single building or
structure, in which each operation owns or leases separate and individual
premises, but share in the use and maintenance of common areas within or
around the structure, then and in those circumstances, each individual
business operation may be permitted to display an individual business sign
as provided in subdivision a) and b) of this Section, except that said sign
must be directly attached to that particular premises actually occupied by
the business operation to which the sign relates.
For the purpose of this subdivision, a combination of two or more business
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.540-12
operations within a single structure includes, but is not limited to,
shopping centers, shopping malls, and subdivided retail, office or
industrial buildings offered for lease or condominium ownership.
4. All freestanding Business Signs shall be landscaped around the base.
Except for monument signs, the surface area of the base of any Business
Sign shall not exceed 25% of the face area unless structural engineering
illustrates the face cannot meet the wind loading requirement of the
Building Code.
5. The maximum height of a Business Sign shall be subject to height
requirements stated in Ordinance 502.11.
502.31, Subd. 10.b. amended 4/2005 (*section subsequently renumbered)
502.31, Subd. 10b-1 amended 03/2015
c) Wall signs may be placed or painted against the exterior wall or surface of a
building or structure and are subject to the following regulations:
1. That the wall sign does not exceed one and one-half ( 1 ½) square feet per
lineal lot front foot or fifteen percent (15%) of the building frontage area
or seventy five (75) square feet, which ever is the greatest.
2. Wall signs shall not project above the roof.
Subd. 12: Regulation of Activities Adjacent to Wetlands.
a) The following activity shall be subject to a 50 foot setback from wetlands:
The construction or maintenance of a building attached to a foundation,
including but not limited to, pole buildings. For purposes of this
paragraph, pump houses, moveable storage sheds, recreational docks and
storm water or erosion control devices shall not be considered buildings.
b) The following activity shall be subject to a 75 foot setback from wetlands:
The construction or maintenance of paved driveways or areas designed for
the parking of a vehicle or trailer.
c) The following activities shall be subject to a 100 foot setback from
wetlands:
1. The construction or maintenance of a well used for agricultural
irrigation, or any well less than 50 feet in depth.
2. External storage of materials used in conjunction with industrial or
commercial processing or manufacturing.
3. The storage of waste or refuse generated by industrial or
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.540-13
commercial activities.
4. The construction or maintenance of a septic system.
Section 502.32 Subd 12 (Interim Use Permits) removed
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.584-1
Section 52002.584: B-3 GENERAL BUSINESS DISTRICT
Subd. 1: Intent. The General Business District provides space for specialized business
and commercial activities at locations where they are easily accessible to residential areas and, at
the same time, minimizing negative impacts to residential neighborhoods. The intent of the B-3
district is to create attractive commercial and business activities through standards including, but
not limited to, larger lot sizes, greenspace and landscaping requirements.
Subd. 2: Permitted Uses. The following uses shall be permitted within the General
Business District:
a) Appliance stores.
b) Apparel shops.
c) Barber and beauty salons.
d) Bicycle sales and repairs.
e) Business/professional offices.
f) Financial institutions, including insurance companies.
g) Florist.
h) Fruit, vegetable and meat stores.
i) Government buildings.
j) Grocery and drug stores.
k) Hardware stores.
l) Interior design services, including floor and wall covering stores.
m) Retail malls.
n) Medical, optical and dental clinics.
o) Office parks.
p) Parks and Open Spaces.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.584-2
q) Photograph sales and repair.
r) Record and video stores.
s) Restaurants, coffee shops, excluding drive-in service.
t) Sporting goods stores.
u) Other use determined by the Planning Commission to be of the same character as
contained in this Subdivision.
Subd. 3: Special Conditional Uses. The following uses shall require a Special
Conditional Use Permit as provided for in based on the procedures set forth in Section 502.07.03
of this Ordinance.
a) Transportation terminals, public utility and transfer stations, without storage
yards.
b) Equipment Services.
1. Radio and television shops
2. Appliance repair shops
3. Appliance show rooms
c) Recreational Services.
1. Theaters
2. Bowling establishments
3. Clubs and lodges
d) Hotels/Motels
e) Drive-through and convenience food establishments, provided that an internal site
pedestrian circulation system shall be defined and appropriate provisions made to
protect such areas from encroachments by parked cars or moving vehicles.
f) Commercial car washes (drive through, self-service and mechanical) provided
that stacking space is constructed, subject to approval by the City Engineer, to
accommodate that number of vehicles which can be washed during a maximum
thirty (30) minute period.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.584-3
g) Convenience Store with fuel services, provided that:
1. The sale of food items is in compliance with state and county standards
and subject to the approval of a Health Inspector who shall provide
specific written sanitary requirements for each proposed sale location.
2. The approximate area and location devoted to non-automotive
merchandise sales shall be specified in general terms in the application.
3. Motor fuel facilities are installed in accordance with state standards.
4. Adequate space shall be provided to access gas pumps and allow
maneuverability around the pumps. Underground fuel storage tanks are to
be positioned to allow adequate access by motor fuel transports and
unloading operations minimize conflict with circulation, access and other
activities on the site.
5. Wherever fuel pumps are to be installed, pump islands shall be installed.
6. A protective canopy located over the pump island(s) may be an accessory
structure on the property however adequate visibility both on and off site
shall be maintained.
7. An internal site pedestrian circulation system shall be defined and
appropriate provisions made to protect such areas from encroachments by
parked cars or moving vehicles.
h) Uses determined to be of a similar nature as those permitted under Subd. 1, upon
a finding that the uses will not be detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of
the City, and that the use is consistent with the stated intent of the zone as
contained in Subd. 1.
Subd. 4: Permitted Accessory Uses. The following uses shall be permitted as an
Accessory Use in the General Business District.
a) Commercial or business buildings for a use accessory to the principal use, not to
exceed thirty percent (30%) of the square footage of the principal structure and
the height of the principal structure.
b) Temporary buildings for construction purposes for a period not to exceed
construction.
c) Off-street loading and parking areas.
d) Signs which meet the criteria in Subd. 11 of this Section of this Ordinance.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.584-4
Subd. 5: Lot Size. Minimum lot size is 10,000 square feet with a minimum width of 100
feet.
Subd. 6: Setbacks.
a) Property adjacent to County State Aid Highway 75. Shall have a ten (10) foot
landscaped setback from the highway right-of-way line. All structures shall have
a twenty (20) foot setback from the highway right-of-way.
b) Front yard. Setback shall be twenty (20) feet from the lot line.
c) Side yard. Setback shall be ten (10) feet from the lot line. If the property’s side
yard is adjacent to County State Aid Highway 75, the setback shall conform to
Subd. 5 (a) of this Section.
d) Rear yard. Setback shall be ten (10) feet from the lot line, 35 feet if abutting a
residential district.
e) No part of the structure including footings, soffits, gutters or other overhangs shall
encroach on easement areas.
Subd. 7: Height Requirements. No portion of any structure shall exceed 3 stories or 40
feet in height. Berming the building does not allow a building to be constructed higher than 40
feet. Elevation for the building shall be determined by the average grade of the land.
Subd. 8: Site Coverage. No structure or combination of structures shall occupy more
than 60 percent of the lot area.
Subd. 9: Other Requirements.
a) Parking Lots. All parking lots shall conform to the standards set forth in this
Ordinance. Section 502.13. All lots shall include parking controls and other
landscaping techniques to improve their aesthetic quality and to direct the flow of
traffic.
b) Loading Docks. All loading docks shall conform to the standards set forth in this
Ordinance. Section 502.13 Subd. 6. No loading docks or overhead doors shall
directly face County State Aid Highway 75.
c) Building Exteriors. All construction of new facilities shall consist of pre-cast or
cast tip up concrete walls, concrete block (painted or decorative), post frame/steel
frame with a concrete block or poured concrete complete perimeter foundation
with frost footings extending a minimum of eight inches (8”) above the final
grade, and stick built construction. Pre-finished architectural metal panels, with a
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.584-5
minimum twenty (20) year manufacturer color-fast warranty, may be used as a
construction material. The exterior building finish of fifty (50%) percent of all
four sides of the structure, exclusive of windows and doors, shall consist of
materials comparable to: face brick; natural stone or cultured rock; glass; vinyl;
stucco, aluminum lapsiding; cut block; and, concrete block (the surface must be
treated with an applied decorative texture or material). Pre-cast or cast in place
concrete buildings shall provide as much adornment as is possible considering
their exterior finish limitations. Any buildings undergoing renovation, repair or an
addition, so as to require the issuance of a building permit, shall be brought into
conformance with this subsection at the time the repairs, renovations or additions
are completed. This does not include re-shingling or re-roofing.
d) Roof Materials. Commercial grade asphalt shingles, wood shingles, standing seam
pre-finished architectural metal, slate, tile or copper. Flat roofs are exempt from
this requirement.
d) Screening. All heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment, and refuse
storage areas shall be screened and in a suitable location as determined by the
Planning Commission.
e) Lighting. All lighting shall be hooded and no light may directly strike any
streets/highways or areas outside of the development.
f) Stops and Curbs. Concrete curb to B-612 specifications shall be used for all
automobile stops and for all drive and parking areas.
g) Landscaping. In addition to requirements relating to parking lots, the
Development Plan shall show a unified landscaping scheme for the development.
h) Signs. All proposed business signs shall be an element of the Development Plan.
All signs shall conform to the Subd. 11 of this Ordinance.
i) A Lock Box shall be installed on all buildings before a certificate of occupancy
will be issued.
Subd. 10: Development Plan Requirements. All development plans must be submitted to
the Zoning Administrator for review and circulation to the City Engineer and Public Works
Director, and if it is determined that the use and development is consistent with the stated intent
of the zoning district, Planning Commission approval is not required. If the proposed use is not
consistent with the intent of this ordinance or compatible with adjacent land uses, the proposed
development plan will be submitted to the Planning Commission for approval. In determining
conformity to the Ordinance, the following information must be presented to the Zoning
Administrator.
502.54, Subd. 10 amended 4/2005 (*section subsequently renumbered)
Section 502.54 Subd 10 amended 10/10
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.584-6
a) Building location on the lot, drawn to scale.
b) Building elevations; front, rear and side.
c) Building exterior materials and color.
d) Locations of ingress and egress points.
e) Dumpster and solid waste pick-up areas and proposed screening material.
f) Sign location and dimensions.
g) Lighting standard and hood detail.
h) Parking and loading areas identified.
i) Drainage by the use of arrows and/or contours.
j) Screening of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment.
k) Landscaping material including the location, type of plant and size.
l) Fire hydrant and fire lane locations.
m) Utility locations.
n) Any other fencing, screening, or building accessories to be located in the
development area.
o) When required, evidence of completion of National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) permitting program and/or the City of St. Joseph
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP).
p) If applicable, evidence of compliance with federal, state and local pollution and
nuisance laws and regulations, including, but not limited to glare, smoke, dust,
odors and noise. The burden of proof for compliance with appropriate standards
shall lie with the applicant.
q) Required Fee/Agreement.
1. Payment Required. Any person filing a petition requesting development
plan review shall pay a fee according to the schedule established by the
City Council.
2. Amount. Fees payable under this section for development plan review
shall be in an amount as established by resolution of the City Council.
Preparation and review of all elements of the required development plan,
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.584-7
as listed and described above, is to be at the sole expense of the developer
and at no expense to the public. The fee is payable at the time of filing a
petition and is not refundable. In addition to the above fees and in the
event the City incurs professional fees, either legal, engineering or
professional planners, or any other cost, including but not limited to,
postage and publication expenses, the applicants shall reimburse the City
for those fees, and the City officials may require an escrow deposit,
cashier’s check or letter of credit for these fees prior to the final action on
the application for development plan review. Such escrow or letter of
credit shall be in the form approved by the City Attorney.
3. Development Agreement. In the event additional review by the City or its
assigns is anticipated and/or needed during implementation of
Development Plan, or other similar circumstance, the City shall require the
property owner(s) and/or developer(s) enter into a development agreement
with the City. The development agreement shall stipulate the conditions
for approval and the City's authority to inspect the development. The
agreement shall further require the owner or developer, as the case may
require, furnish a cashier's check, escrow account or irrevocable letter of
credit in favor of the City in an amount equal to 110% of all costs
associated with City’s review of the development, including but not
limited to, engineering, legal, fiscal and administrative, as estimated by the
City. Such escrow or letter of credit shall be in the form approved by the
City Attorney, shall be conditioned upon the approval of the development
plan.
Subd. 11: Signs. In the B-3 General Business district the general provisions apply to all
signs.
a) Business and Wall signs may be erected, attached or painted on to a structure and
advertising signs shall be prohibited. They are defined as follows:
1. Business Sign. A sign that is related to the business located on the same property
to which it is located.
2. Wall Sign. A sign painted or placed against or attached to the exterior wall
surface of a building or structure.
3. Advertising Sign. A sign which directs attention to a business, profession,
commodity, service or entertainment which is sold or offered on a premise other than that on
which the sign is located.
b) Business signs may be erected, attached or painted on to a structure, and
maintained in conjunction with a commercial use provided:
1. Signs shall have a surface area not exceeding one hundred square feet per sign
face with an aggregate total not to exceed two hundred (200) square feet if double faced.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.584-8
2. Such sign except a directional sign, is erected only on the premise on which the
use, to which the sign relates, is conducted.
3. Notwithstanding the above, where two or more separate and individual businesses
are conducting business in separate areas of a single building or structure, in which each
operation owns or leases separate and individual premises, but share in the use and maintenance
of common areas within or around the structure, then and in those circumstances, each individual
business operation may be permitted to display an individual business sign as provided in
subdivision a) and b) of this Section, except that said sign must be directly attached to that
particular premises actually occupied by the business operation to which the sign relates.
For the purpose of this subdivision, a combination of two or more business operations
within a single structure includes, but is not limited to, shopping centers, shopping malls, and
subdivided retail, office or industrial buildings offered for lease or condominium ownership.
4. All freestanding Business Signs shall be landscaped around the base. Except for
monument signs, the surface area of the base of any Business Sign shall not exceed 25% of the
face area unless structural engineering illustrates the face cannot meet the wind loading
requirement of the Building Code.
5. The maximum height of a Business Sign shall be subject to height
requirements stated in Ordinance 502.11.
502.54, Subd. 11.b. amended 4/2005 (*section subsequently renumbered)
502.54, Sub 11b-5, amended 03/2015
c) Wall signs may be placed or painted against the exterior wall or surface of a
building or structure and are subject to the following regulations:
1. That the wall sign does not exceed one and one-half (1 ½) square feet per lineal
lot front foot or fifteen percent (15%) of the building frontage area or seventy five (75) square
feet, which ever is the greatest.
2. Wall signs shall not project above the roof.
d) Advertising or pylon signs shall not be permitted.
Subd. 12: Regulation of Activities Adjacent to Wetlands.
a) The following activity shall be subject to a 50 foot setback from wetlands:
The construction or maintenance of a building attached to a foundation,
including but not limited to, pole buildings. For purposes of this
paragraph, pump houses, moveable storage sheds, recreational docks and
storm water or erosion control devices shall not be considered buildings.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.584-9
b) The following activity shall be subject to a 75 foot setback from wetlands:
The construction or maintenance of paved driveways or areas designed for
the parking of a vehicle or trailer.
c) The following activities shall be subject to a 100 foot setback from
wetlands:
1. The construction or maintenance of a well used for agricultural
irrigation, or any well less than 50 feet in depth.
2. External storage of materials used in conjunction with industrial or
commercial processing or manufacturing.
3. The storage of waste or refuse generated by industrial or
commercial activities.
4. The construction or maintenance of a septic system.
Subd. 13: Interim Use Permit for Rental Units.
a) Residential units in areas that have been rezoned to commercial from residential
shall be allowed an interim use permit as a rental unit for a specific period of
time. The maximum density for rental units under the interim use permit shall be
limited to the density which is allowed in the R-1, Single Family Residential
District.
b) The interim use as a rental unit shall be obtained through the interim use
procedures set forth in this Ordinance. St. Joseph Ordinance 502.07, Subd. 4 – Interim Use Permit.
c) In requesting such an interim rental use, the landowner agrees to any conditions
that the governing body deems appropriate for permission of the use and agrees
that the use will terminate at the designated date for termination of the interim
use.
d) Public hearings shall be held as set forth in this Ordinance. 502.07, Subd. 4.
502.54, Subd. 13, added 1/07
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6258-1
Section 52002.6258: LI-LIGHT INDUSTRIAL DISTRICT
Subd. 1: Intent. The Light Industrial District provides space for industrial activities
involving a minimum degree of refuse byproducts and air or noise pollution, and requiring a
relatively low level of on-premise processing. These activities may include secondary
commercial functions which are conducted on site.
Subd. 2: Permitted Uses. The following use shall be permitted within the LI-Light
Industrial District:
a) Assembly plants and manufacturing enterprises of a wide variety of products that
do not cause noxious odors or noise, including excessive users of water and
sewer. Examples of such uses include: fabrication or assembly of small products
such as opticals, electronics, pharmaceuticals, medical supplies and small
equipment.
b) Publishing establishments.
c) Clothing or apparel manufacturing or assembly.
d) Business incubator facilities.
e) Bottling establishments.
f) Dry cleaning and drying establishments.
g) Manufacturing/assembly of crates, boxes, baskets, furniture, veneer,
cabinets and similar word items.
h) Building materials sales and storage/ lumberyards.
i) Manufacturing of plastic, fiberglass and metal products.
j) Mini-storage.
k) Major automotive repair.
l) Offices/showroom/retail space as a portion of the principal industrial use provided
they do not exceed a combined 25 percent of the total square footage of the
principal use.
m) Appliance assembly and warehousing.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6258-2
n) Industrial research laboratories.
o) Manufacturing of small electrical parts and service.
p) Newspaper and printing plants.
q) Telecommunication facilities, base stations.
r) Telemarketing and mail order establishments.
s) Warehousing, of non-explosive material and equipment within the structure.
t) Wholesale or distributor storage and distribution of non-hazardous materials.
u) Wholesale water conditioning systems.
v) Uses determined to be of a similar nature as those contained in this section upon a
finding that the uses will not be detrimental to the health, safety and welfare of the
City, and that the use is consistent with the stated intent of the zone as contained
in Subd. 1.
Subd. 3: Permitted Accessory Uses. The following uses shall be permitted as an
Accessory Use in the Light Industrial District and subject to the all the requirements in this
Section:
a) Restaurant, lunch counters, confectioneries to serve the employees employed
within the District.
b) Residential structures and related residential uses necessary for security and safety
reasons in relation to the principal use.
c) Off-street parking and off-street loading.
d) Outdoor storage as regulated in this Ordinance. Section 502.12, Subd. 12.
e) Office accessory to the principal use.
f) Business identification sSigns as regulated in this Ordinance Subd. 11.
g) Temporary buildings for construction purposes for a period not to exceed a period
of 12 months.
Subd. 4: Conditional Uses Under Special Use Permit. The following uses shall require a
Special Conditional Use Permit based on the procedures set forth as provided for in this
Ordinance.
a) Adult Entertainment as regulated in Section 502.15 of this Ordinance.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6258-3
b) Commercial activities relating to production systems, structural maintenance
programs or the construction industry.
c) Service structures, public or private, designed and used to serve the uses in the
surrounding area, such as electric power substation, telephone buildings, deep
wells, elevated tanks and similar structures and uses.
d) Biotechnology and health science research, development, manufacturing, and/or
production facilities including but not limited to devices, products, components,
and services whether organic or inorganic in nature.
e) Commercial/Industrial Planned Unit Development.
f) When property within a Light Industrial District abuts County State Aid Highway
75:
1. Motels
2. Gasoline service stations
3. Restaurant or supper clubs
4. Drive-in establishments, provided that an internal site pedestrian
circulation system shall be defined and appropriate provisions made to
protect such areas from encroachments by parked cars or moving vehicles.
5. Open sales or temporary rental lots
g) Indoor Firing Range provided that:
1. The firing range shall not be located on any lot adjacent to an existing
Residential, Educational/Ecclesiastical or Public District unless the facility
is separated by a public right-of-way.
2. The firing Range shall not be located within one thousand (1,000) lineal
feet, measured from building to building, of an existing firing range or
establishment licensed to dispense intoxicating or non-intoxicating liquor,
nor shall they be in a building that dispenses liquor.
3. The building and method of operation shall conform with the applicable
Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, Environmental Protection Agency,
and OSHA standards for indoor ventilation, emission into the atmosphere,
indoor sound levels, lead containment and outside noise standards.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6258-4
4. The design and construction of the firing range shall completely confine
all ammunition rounds within the building and in a controlled manner.
The design and construction of the firing range shall be certified by a
registered engineer in the State of Minnesota. The certified plans shall
include the specifications and construction of the bullet trap (s), ceilings,
exterior and interior walls and floors. The certified plans shall state what
type and caliber of ammunition the range is designed to totally confine.
5. No ammunition shall be used in the range that exceeds the certified design
and construction specifications of the firing range.
6. Firearms shall not be stored on the premises when the range is closed for
Business, unless they are stored in a secured vault.
7. On-site supervision shall be supplied at all times by an adult with
credentials as a range operator. The range operator shall be responsible
for the conduct of their place of business and the conditions of safety and
order in the place of business and on the premises.
8. On site instruction shall be given only by Certified Firearms Instructors.
Current certificates for firearms instructors shall be on display in a
conspicuous location in the premises and available for public inspection at
all times.
9. The transport of firearms on the premises, to the premises and from the
premises shall conform to State Law.
10. Minors shall not be allowed in the range unless accompanied by an adult
at all times. This provision shall not be interpreted to prohibit minors
from participating in a firearm safety class or using the facility provided
they are supervised by an adult instructor.
Subd. 5: Lot Area Requirements.
a) Minimum Lot Size: One (1) acre (43,560 square feet). Minimum lot width one
hundred (100) feet.
b) Impervious surfaces shall not exceed 80% of the lot area. Impervious surfaces
shall include all structures, parking spaces and driveway connecting the parking
space with a street or alley.
502.58, Subd. 5, amended 1/07
Subd. 6: Setback Requirements. No part of the structure including footings, soffits,
gutters or other overhangs shall encroach on easement areas.
Front Yard Setbacks.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6258-5
a) Front yard setback shall be thirty (30) feet from the lot line. On corner lots, the
setback from all lot lines abutting a street shall be thirty (30) feet. When an
industrial district lot is separated from a residential zone by a city street, the
setback from the lot line shall be one hundred (100) feet.
b) Front yards abutting any roadway: the setback shall be landscaped as in
accordance to the requirements of any applicable protective covenants and such
reasonable requirements as established by the City, and shall not be used for
parking.
Side Yard Setbacks.
a) Side yard setback shall be at least twenty-five (25) feet from the lot line.
Development occurring on lots platted prior to January 1, 1999 shall be subject to
the ten foot side yard setback requirement in effect at the time of platting.
b) A Light Industrial District side yard adjacent to a residential boundary line shall
provide for a landscaped strip of at least sixty (60) feet in width along the lot
boundary line. A portion of this The landscaped strip shall be planted with an
evergreen hedge to provide a screen. The governing body may require additional
side yard setback in these cases. When such additional width is required, such
additional width shall not exceed one hundred (100) feet. and paring in this area
will be permitted.
c) Side yard boarding upon any roadway: the setback shall be landscaped in
accordance with any applicable protective covenants and such reasonable
requirements as established by the City.
Rear Yard Setback.
a) Rear yard setback shall be at least twenty (20) feet, which may be used for
parking.
b) A Light Industrial District rear yard adjacent to a residential boundary shall
provide a landscaped strip of at least sixty (60) feet in width along the lot
boundary line. The landscaped strip shall be planted with an evergreen hedge to
provide a screen. The governing body may require additional side yard setback in
these cases. When such additional width is required, such additional width shall
not exceed one hundred (100) feet.
Subd. 7: Height Requirements.
a) No building constructed in any Light Industrial District shall be more than fifty-
five (55) feet in height. Berming the building does not allow a building to be
constructed higher than 55 feet. Elevation for the building shall be determined by
the average grade of the land.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6258-6
Subd. 8: Site Coverage. No structure or combination of structures shall occupy more
than 50 percent of the lot area.
Subd. 9: Other Requirements.
a) Parking Lots. All parking lots shall conform to the standards set forth in this
Ordinance. Section 502.10. All lots shall include parking controls and other
landscaping techniques to improve their aesthetic quality and to direct the flow of
traffic.
b) Loading Docks. All loading docks shall conform to the standards set forth in this
Ordinance.Section 502.10. No loading docks or overhead doors shall directly face
County State Aid Highway 75.
c) Building Exteriors. All construction of new facilities, excluding additions that are
less than 30% of the existing structure, shall consist of pre-cast or cast tip up
concrete walls, concrete block (painted or decorative), and stick built construction
and shall include footings that meet the requirement of the MN State Building
Code, in relation to frost protection.
Pre-finished architectural metal panels, with a minimum twenty (20) year
manufacturer color-fast warranty, may be used as a construction material. A
minimum of twenty-five (25%) of the exterior building finish directly facing
streets, exclusive of windows and doors, shall consist of materials comparable to:
face brick; natural stone or cultured rock; glass; vinyl; stucco, aluminum
lapsiding; cut block; and, concrete block (the surface must be treated with an
applied decorative texture or material). Pre-cast or cast in place concrete
buildings shall provide the same amount of adornment.
Accessory Building located in the rear yard or behind the principal structure, and
not visible from the public right-of-way must have an exterior harmonious with
the principal structure, all other accessory buildings must meet the 30%
adornment requirement stated above.
d) Roof Materials. Commercial grade asphalt shingles, wood shingles, standing seam
pre-finished architectural metal, slate, tile or copper. Flat roofs are exempt from
this requirement.
Updated 502.58, Subd. 9(c) on 1/2005 (*section subsequently renumbered)
d) Every applicant for a permit develop or expand any industrial property in the City
shall be required to submit a complete and accurate statement concerning the
specific nature of the use to which the property is to be put and shall certify that
the proposed use shall comply with all regulations, ordinances, or special
provisions which may apply.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6258-7
e) The Planning Commission shall have the right to require any additional
information, corrections, or control, deemed necessary for the protection of the
public. The Planning Commission shall have the right to hire expert consultants,
at the permittees' expense, to assist in the establishment of special restrictions for
any Industrial Use.
f) Every applicant shall be required to submit for approval a landscape plan
providing for the planting of trees and other vegetation.
g) Any use creating periodic earthshaking vibration shall be prohibited if undue
vibrations are perceptible beyond boundaries of the property on which the use is
located. This standard shall not apply to vibrations created during the process of
construction.
h) Any use requiring the storage, utilization or manufacture of products which could
decompose by detonation shall be located not less than 400 feet from any
residence. This section shall not apply to the storage or usage of liquid petroleum,
natural gas for normal residential or business use providing other performance
standards are met.
i) All activities that emit radioactivity shall comply with the minimum requirements
of the Federal regulatory body.
j) All uses associated with bulk storage of oil, gasoline, liquid fertilizer, chemicals,
similar liquids and hazardous substances shall comply with the requirements of
the Minnesota State Fire Marshall, the Minnesota Department of Agriculture and
other hazardous substance legislation by the Federal government. The user of
such material shall have documents from the above offices that the use is in
compliance. All existing above ground liquid storage tanks with a capacity of
2,000 gallons or more, shall comply with the requirements of the Minnesota State
Fire Marshall's office within 12 months following enactment of this Ordinance.
k) Screening. All heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment, and refuse
storage areas shall be screened and in a suitable location.
l) Lighting. All lighting shall be hooded and no light may directly strike any
street/highway or areas outside of the development.
m) Landscaping. In addition to requirements relating to parking lots, the
Development Plan shall show a unified landscaping scheme for the development.
n) Signs . All proposed business signs shall be an element of the Development Plan.
All signs shall conform to the requirements of
o) A Lock Box shall be installed on all buildings before a certificate of occupancy
will be issued.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6258-8
Subd. 10: Development Plan Requirements. All development plans must be submitted to the
Zoning Administrator for review and circulation to the City Engineer and Public Works Director,
and if it is determined that the use and development is consistent with the stated intent of the
zoning district, Planning Commission approval is not required. If the proposed use is not
consistent with the intent of this ordinance or compatible with adjacent land uses, the proposed
development plan will be submitted to the Planning Commission for approval. In determining
conformity to the Ordinance, the following information must be presented to the Zoning
Administrator.
Updated 502.58, Subd. 10 on 4/2005 (*section subsequently renumbered)
Section 502.58 Subd 10 amended 10/10
a) Building location on the lot, drawn to scale.
b) Building elevations; front, rear and side.
c) Building exterior materials and color.
d) Locations of ingress and egress points.
e) Dumpster and solid waste pick-up areas and proposed screening material.
f) Sign location and dimensions.
g) Lighting standard and hood detail.
h) Parking and loading areas identified.
i) Drainage by the use of arrows and/or contours.
j) Screening of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment.
k) Landscaping material including the location, type of plant and size.
l) Fire hydrant and fire lane locations.
m) Utility locations.
n) Any other fencing, screening, or building accessories to be located in the
development area.
o) When required, evidence of completion of National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) permitting program and/or the City of St. Joseph
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP).
p) If applicable, evidence of compliance with federal, state and local pollution and
nuisance laws and regulations, including, but not limited to glare, smoke, dust,
odors and noise. The burden of proof for compliance with appropriate standards
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6258-9
shall lie with the applicant.
q) Required Fee/Agreement.
1. Payment Required. Any person filing a petition requesting development
plan review shall pay a fee according to the schedule established by the
City Council.
2. Amount. Fees payable under this section for development plan review
shall be in an amount as established by resolution of the City Council.
Preparation and review of all elements of the required development plan,
as listed and described above, is to be at the sole expense of the developer
and at no expense to the public. The fee is payable at the time of filing a
petition and is not refundable. In addition to the above fees and in the
event the City incurs professional fees, either legal, engineering or
professional planners, or any other cost, including but not limited to,
postage and publication expenses, the applicants shall reimburse the City
for those fees, and the City officials may require an escrow deposit,
cashier’s check or letter of credit for these fees prior to the final action on
the application for development plan review. Such escrow or letter of
credit shall be in the form approved by the City Attorney.
3. Development Agreement. In the event additional review by the City or its
assigns is anticipated and/or needed during implementation of
Development Plan, or other similar circumstance, the City shall require the
property owner(s) and/or developer(s) enter into a development agreement
with the City. The development agreement shall stipulate the conditions
for approval and the City's authority to inspect the development. The
agreement shall further require the owner or developer, as the case may
require, furnish a cashier's check, escrow account or irrevocable letter of
credit in favor of the City in an amount equal to 110% of all costs
associated with City’s review of the development, including but not
limited to, engineering, legal, fiscal and administrative, as estimated by the
City. Such escrow or letter of credit shall be in the form approved by the
City Attorney, shall be conditioned upon the approval of the development
plan.
Subd. 11: Signs. In the L-I Light Industrial district the general provisions apply to all
signs.
a) Special and Temporary Signs.
1. One (1) identification sign not exceeding thirty-five (35) square feet in area for
the following uses: church, school, or similar uses. Such signs shall be solely for the name and
of the use and its activities and may be illuminated but not flashing.
2. Temporary signs advertising a new subdivision development limited to the
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6258-10
following: (1) maximum size shall be thirty-two (32) square feet in surface area, (2) maximum
height of fifteen (15) feet above ground level.
3. Real estate signs, including signs advertising the sale or rental of premises, are
permitted provided the area on one side of any such signs shall not exceed six (6) square feet.
4. Temporary signs of contractors, architects, mechanics, special events and artisans
are permitted, provided that such signs shall be removed promptly upon completion of the work
and further provided that such signs shall not exceed thirty-two (32) square feet in area.
b) Portable Signs.
1. Definition. A portable sign is one that is movable from one location to another
and is not permanently affixed to the ground, sales display device, or structure.
2. Permit Required. A business seeking to use or display a portable sign shall obtain
a permit from the City for the period of display. Permits will specify the length of time the sign
will be displayed, location of the sign, and business applying to use the sign.
3. Length of Use. The duration of time a portable sign can be located on a property
is limited to a maximum of forty (40) days in any one calendar year.
4. Size. A portable sign shall not exceed 50 square feet which accounts for all
letters, numbers and attachments; excluding material required to support the sign.
c) Business or Commercial Signs
1. Signs shall have a surface area not exceeding one hundred (100) square
feet per sign with an aggregate total not to exceed two hundred (200) square feet if double faced.
2. Such sign except a directional sign, is erected only on the premises on
which the use, to which the sign relates, is conducted.
3. Notwithstanding the above, where two or more separate and individual
commercial operations are conducting business in separate areas of a single building or structure,
in which each operation owns or leases separate and individual premises, but share in the use and
maintenance of common areas within or around the structure, then and in those circumstances,
each individual business operation may be permitted to display an individual business sign as
provided in subdivisions a) and b), except that said sign must be directly attached to that
particular premises actually occupied by the business operation to which the sign relates. In
addition to these individual business signs, the combination of business operations occupying the
structure, may maintain a 50 square foot sign detached from the structure identifying the
structure, the individual business operations located therein, or other reference to the
combination of business operations located within the structure. For purposes of this
subdivision, a combination of two or more business operations within a single structure includes,
but is not limited to, shopping centers, shopping malls, and subdivided retail, office or industrial
buildings offered for lease or condominium ownership.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6258-11
4. All freestanding Business Signs shall be landscaped around the base.
Except for monument signs, the surface area of the base of any Business Sign shall not exceed
25% of the face area unless structural engineering illustrates the face cannot meet the wind
loading requirement of the Building Code.
The maximum height of a Business Sign shall be subject to height requirements in Ordinance
502.11.
502.58, Subd. 11c amended by adding 4. and 5. on 4/2005 (*section subsequently renumbered)
502.58, Subd. 11c-5, amended 3/2015.
d) Advertising or pylon signs shall not be permitted.
e) Sign Removal. All signs not maintained and kept in good repair shall be subject to
removal upon direction of the City Building Inspector.
Subd. 12: Regulation of Activities Adjacent to Wetlands.
a) The following activity shall be subject to a 50 foot setback from wetlands:
The construction or maintenance of a building attached to a foundation,
including but not limited to, pole buildings. For purposes of this
paragraph, pump houses, moveable storage sheds, recreational docks and
storm water or erosion control devices shall not be considered buildings.
b) The following activity shall be subject to a 75 foot setback from wetlands:
The construction or maintenance of paved driveways or areas designed for
the parking of a vehicle or trailer.
c) The following activities shall be subject to a 100 foot setback from
wetlands:
1. The construction or maintenance of a well used for agricultural
irrigation, or any well less than 50 feet in depth.
2. External storage of materials used in conjunction with industrial or
commercial processing or manufacturing.
3. The storage of waste or refuse generated by industrial or
commercial activities.
4. The construction or maintenance of a septic system.
Updated 11/2013
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6662-1
Section 52002.6662: EE - EDUCATIONAL - ECCLESIASTICAL DISTRICT
Subd. 1: Intent. It is the intent of this district to provide for an area occupied by public
and private educational and ecclesiastical institutions. The institutions of the Sisters of the Order
of Saint Benedict and the College of Saint Benedict predate the adoption of this Ordinance. The
City recognizes the historic significance and cultural, religious and educational function of these
institutions. However, this section is meant to prohibit the use of land by these and other
educational facilities which would be incompatible with or detrimental to the essential character
of land adjoining the Educational - Ecclesiastical District.
Subd. 2: Permitted Uses.
a) Convents
b) Novitiates
c) Colleges and Universities
d) College Preparatory Schools
e) Churches and Similar Uses
f) College Owned Student Housing
g) Grade Schools
h) High Schools
i) Vocational Schools
Subd. 3: Conditional Uses Under Special Use Permit. The following uses shall require a
special conditional use permit based on the procedure set forth as provided for in this Ordinance:
a) Streets and alleys which provide a means of ingress and egress to or from the
institution.
Subd. 4: Permitted Accessory Uses. Accessory uses reasonably incidental to the
function and purpose of permitted uses including, but not limited to:
a) An independent power plant facility.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6662-2
b) Storage buildings for storage of equipment used in the maintenance of the
property, not to exceed 30% of the gross square footage of the principal structure
and the height of the principal structure.
c) Swimming pools, tennis courts and other recreational facilities. All swimming
pools must be fenced around the perimeter. The fence must meet the
requirements of Section 502.12 Subd. 2 of this Ordinance.
Subd. 5: Building Permit Required. Construction of facilities must be by a building
permit issued by the building inspector to insure building code compliance, and all building
permit applications must be reviewed and approved by the Fire Chief or Fire Marshall and the
Planning Commission. A building permit must be issued by the building inspector and building
plans approved by the Fire Chief or Fire Marshall and the Planning Commission for remodeling
of existing facilities for a same or similar use.
Subd. 6: Height Requirements. No building constructed in the Educational Ecclesiastical
District shall be more than 3 stories or 40 feet in height. Berming the building does not allow a
building to be constructed higher than 40 feet. Elevation for the building shall be determined by
the average grade of the land. Steeples and similar unoccupied design features shall conform to
the standards set forth in this Ordinance. Section 502.12 Subd.5 (a).
Subd. 7: Setback Requirements.
a) The front yard of any building shall be 35 feet from the lot line.
b) The side yard of any building shall be 20 feet from the lot line, unless the side
yard abuts a street or highway in which case the setback shall not be less than 30
feet.
c) The rear yard of any building shall be 20 feet from the lot line.
Subd. 8: Site Coverage. No structure or combination of structures shall occupy more
than 50 percent of the lot area.
Subd. 9: Other Requirements:
a) Screening: All heating, ventilation and air conditioning equipment, and refuse
storage areas shall be screened and in a suitable location as determined by the
Planning Commission.
b) Lighting: All lighting not under the authority of a governmental unit shall be
hooded and no light may directly strike any public right of way.
c) Landscaping: In addition to requirements relating to parking lots, the
Development Plan shall show a unified landscaping scheme for the development.
d) Parking:
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6662-3
i. All parking lots shall conform to the standards set forth in Section 502.10.
All lots shall include parking controls and other landscaping techniques to
improve their aesthetic quality and to direct the flow of traffic.
ii. The amount of required off-street parking space for new uses or buildings,
additions thereto and additions to existing buildings shall be determined in
accordance with the parking standards set forth in section 502.10 of the St.
Joseph Code of Ordinances. The parking requirements can be adjusted if
a parking study is completed illustrating the anticipated demand for
parking and loading space, the length of visits generated by the particular
business, and the availability of other parking spaces are provided.
Section 502.62 Subd 9 amended 10/10
Subd. 10: Development Plan Requirements. No building permit shall be issued until the
City Council approves the Development Plan after consulting with the Planning Commission to
determine that the use and development is compatible with and complementary to adjacent land
uses, and consistent with the stated intent of this zone. The developer shall provide the following
items to the Planning Commission and City Council for any development located in the
Educational-Ecclesiastical District:
a) Building location on the lot, drawn to scale.
b) Building elevations; front, rear and side.
c) Building exterior materials and color.
d) Locations of ingress and egress points.
e) Dumpster and solid waste pick-up areas and proposed screening material.
f) Sign location and dimensions.
g) Lighting standard and hood detail.
h) Parking and loading areas identified.
i) Drainage by the use of arrows and/or contours.
j) Screening of heating, ventilation and air-conditioning equipment.
k) Landscaping material including the location, type of plant and size.
l) Fire hydrant and fire lane locations.
m) Utility locations.
n) Any other fencing, screening, or building accessories to be located in the
development area.
ORDINANCE 52002 – ZONING ORDINANCE
52002.6662-4
o) When required, evidence of completion of National Pollutant Discharge
Elimination System (NPDES) permitting program and/or the City of St. Joseph
Storm Water Pollution Prevention Program (SWPPP).
p) If applicable, evidence of compliance with federal, state and local pollution and
nuisance laws and regulations, including, but not limited to glare, smoke, dust,
odors and noise. The burden of proof for compliance with appropriate standards
shall lie with the applicant.
q) Required Fee/Agreement.
1. Payment Required. Any person filing a petition requesting development
plan review shall pay a fee according to the schedule established by the
City Council.
2. Amount. Fees payable under this section for development plan review
shall be in an amount as established by resolution of the City Council.
Preparation and review of all elements of the required development plan,
as listed and described above, is to be at the sole expense of the developer
and at no expense to the public. The fee is payable at the time of filing a
petition and is not refundable. In addition to the above fees and in the
event the City incurs professional fees, either legal, engineering or
professional planners, or any other cost, including but not limited to,
postage and publication expenses, the applicants shall reimburse the City
for those fees, and the City officials may require an escrow deposit,
cashier’s check or letter of credit for these fees prior to the final action on
the application for development plan review. Such escrow or letter of
credit shall be in the form approved by the City Attorney.
3. Development Agreement. In the event additional review by the City or its
assigns is anticipated and/or needed during implementation of
Development Plan, or other similar circumstance, the City shall require the
property owner(s) and/or developer(s) enter into a development agreement
with the City. The development agreement shall stipulate the conditions
for approval and the City's authority to inspect the development. The
agreement shall further require the owner or developer, as the case may
require, furnish a cashier's check, escrow account or irrevocable letter of
credit in favor of the City in an amount equal to 110% of all costs
associated with City’s review of the development, including but not
limited to, engineering, legal, fiscal and administrative, as estimated by the
City. Such escrow or letter of credit shall be in the form approved by the
City Attorney, shall be conditioned upon the approval of the development
plan.
St. Joseph Downtown Revitalization
Design Standards Committee
Urban Environs Work Group
Ernie Diedrich, Committee Chair
Maureen Forsythe
Michael Gohman
David Hunger
Amy Kluesner
Matt Lindstrom
Steve Paasch
Colleen Petters
Kurt Schneider
Cynthia Smith-Strack
Ellen Wahlstrom
Dale Wick
Final Report
September 2007
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Section Content Page
I. Introduction & Purpose 3
II. Definitions 4
III. St. Joseph's Downtown 5
IV. Methodology 5
V. Design Guidelines 8
VI. Recommended goals 13
VII. Development of Greater Downtown 15
VIII. Conclusion 15
IX. Appendices 16
2
I. Introduction and Purpose of this Report
In 2006, the City of Saint Joseph started a process to revitalize the downtown area so
that the downtown could remain the cornerstone of the community. For a city to be vital,
it should have a central place where its residents come together on important occasions,
and where they enjoy meeting each other in their everyday comings and goings.
Our citizen committee, the Urban Environs Work Group, was charged with establishing
design standards for the downtown area to guide people wishing to refurbish existing
buildings or build new ones. Design standards provide a basis for making design decisions
in an area that is typically a city's historical center. They are also a planning tool for
property owners and design professionals who want to make improvements that may
affect historic resources.
3
II. Definitions.
Clapboard: Exterior wood (usually cedar or redwood) horizontal siding with beveled
edges which overlap.
Decorative concrete block: A structural masonry unit or veneer that is impregnated with color and
features a textured surface (e.g. split face, rock face, brick face).
Design guidelines are strongly recommended yet discretionary policies that
guide more subjective considerations, such as district character, design
Design guideline: details, or architectural style. They serve as design criteria for review by
City Staff, an architectural review board, the Planning Commission, and
City Council.
Development standards address those aspects of site development and
building design that are essential to maintain and reinforce the character of
Development standard: each district. They include permitted uses, building height, facade
treatment, setbacks, and parking, sign, and landscaping specifications.
These standards should be legally defensible and implemented through the
City's development regulations.
Exterior siding material comprised of compressed wood fiber, adhesives
Hardiplank siding: and/or cement applied to planks or sheets of wood and cut to resemble
clapboard.
Historic plaque: Plaque designating the name of a building, occupant and/or date of
erection cut into or attached to a building surface.
Masonite siding: Engineered wood product made from wood fiber, wax, resins and a
hardboard overlay.
A think layer of masonry attached to a framework of wood, steel or rough
Masonry veneer: masonry for the pubose of providing ornamenttation, protection or
insulation but not counted as addingg strength to a wall.
Panelized brick: Preassembed, curtain-wall type brick veneer.
Split face block: See definition for"Decorative Concrete Block".
Also known as cinder block. A hollow masonry unit (non-colored or
Standard concrete block: textured) made of concrete mixes with ashes commonly used in
foundations.
Three dimensional signage: Projecting signs attached to a horizontal wall and projecting outward
vertically therefrom.
4
III. Saint Joseph's Downtown
As indicated in the Introduction, the downtown is seen to need revitalization. Saint
Joseph's downtown, as the photographs in Appendix A readily show, is a collection of
mixed uses along Minnesota Street and College Avenue. The downtown is oriented to
pedestrians but challenged by heavy through traffic, a subdued "sense of place" and a
non-uniform streetscape.
During the Comprehensive Planning Process, survey respondents and neighborhood
meeting participants stated a number of challenges and opportunities facing the city over
the next few years. Among these challenges were retaining locally-owned businesses,
creating an attractive downtown area, optimizing the use of downtown space and keeping
downtown lively with a range of activities. When asked what one major improvement
would make living in St. Joseph better for them, almost 70% supported the notion of an
economically and socially viable and vibrant downtown that would preserve downtown
"Americana."
This committee spent one meeting doing a Strengths Weaknesses Opportunities Threats
(SWOT) analysis (summarized in Appendix B) that confirmed for the Urban Environs Work
Group that downtown Saint Joseph needs revitalization.
IV. Methodology
A. Defining the Downtown.
Our first step was to establish the scope of our task by defining what we
understand to be "Downtown. " We did this by defining the Core Downtown
and the Greater Downtown areas.
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We augmented the City's definition of the Core Downtown to include the
following: Both sides of Minnesota Street between College Avenue and First
Avenue and bounded by Ash Street with extensions on College Avenue to Ash
Street and to just a little beyond Kennedy School.
The Greater Downtown Area expands to Birch Street on the north and to
Kennedy School on the South.
The Urban Environs Committee will focus on establishing design standards
primarily for the Core Downtown Area and will not deal with ways to further
develop the Greater Downtown Area.
B. What Has Been Done Already?
Our second task was to examine what has already been done by the 1995 visit
of the Minnesota Design Team and more recently (2005), the adoption of the
Comprehensive Plan by the City of Saint Joseph. The Minnesota Design Team
held a community visioning process and their design charette resulted in a
report that provided a vision for "A Great Good Place" which summarized rules
of thumb for a "great good place":
1. Convenience with nearby parking
2. Locally owned businesses
3. Compact and walkable
4. Recognized as the Center
To that end, the renewed vision the Design Team gave us included:
1. Compact center that links Minnesota St. to Hwy 75
2. New investment directed to the Center
3. Shared parking behind center businesses
4. Walkways link college, Church and the Center
The Urban Environs Committee, in effect, adopts similar ideas about the
Downtown area in its deliberations about design standards.
C. What Would Make the Core Downtown Look Better?
The third step was to discuss design elements that coincided with the Design
Team drawings and could improve the downtown significantly. These are listed
in Appendix D and are woven in with the short-term and long-term
recommendations.
Our final step was to incorporate these design elements into a systematic set of
6
design guidelines and standards. After looking at numerous sites on the internet
and investigating what other cities have adopted as guidelines and standards
(see Appendix E), we developed a "blend" of guidelines and standards from other
cities that follow in part V.
7
V. Design Guidelines
A. Goals
1. Preserve the small town, unique character of St. Joseph
2. Complement the existing historic architecture
3. Enhance the pedestrian experience of downtown and encourage
streetscapes that are inviting
4. Ensure that the design standards articulate the community's vision for a main
street area
5. Consider "sustainable design" in all changes (see Appendix C for an
explanation of sustainable design)
6. Protect property values by listing and specifying desirable attributes of
characteristics that define a building's quality.
7. Finally, the design standards should apply to the following:
a. All new building construction
b. All exterior building improvements and signage changes that require a
building/sign permit
c. All new or reconstructed parking areas with 5 or more spaces
B. Specific Standards
1. Store Front Building Materials
The historic character of a property should be retained and preserved.
The removal of historic materials or alteration of features that
characterize the property should be avoided. The following materials
are recommended:
a. Brick or brick veneer
b. Decorative Concrete block
c. Stone
d. Wood - minimum amount and is to be painted and maintained
e. Stucco
f. Maintained clapboard, hardiplank
8
g. Large windows
The following building materials are not recommended:
a. Standard concrete block
b. Vinyl/ steel siding
c. Unfinished wood
d. Painted or panelized brick
e. Masonite
2. Windows and Floors
a. Large open views into the commercial spaces are encouraged to
enhance the pedestrian experience by providing a visual connection to
the use inside the building.
b. Restoration or renovation of a storefront should be mindful of its original
character.
c. Installing window air conditioners is inappropriate.
d. Windows and doors are recommended in the rear fagade for use of rear
lot area.
3. Building Setbacks
A storefront is recommended to be at the property line or even with the
adjacent property and the storefront should be less than five feet from the
property line.
4. Parking
a. Off street parking should not occur in the front yard.
b. Parking should be accommodated at the rear of lots and on shared city
lots.
c. The city should assure that ample on street and off-street parking is
available throughout the downtown area
d. Green parking buffers such as hedges and berms are encouraged. The
buffer area on parking lots should be a minimum of 5' wide to provide
adequate space for the trees, railing or wall and snow storage. The
street wall should be maintained across the parking lot street frontages
9
by using overstory trees, hedges, berms, ornamental fencing and/or
structural screens.
5. Utility Screening
Ground-mounted mechanical equipment and dumpsters should be screened
with plants, walls or fencing.
6. Landscaping
a. Hanging baskets and planters are encouraged along storefronts.
b. The city of St. Joseph should develop a plan to provide trees and
planters as part of the streetscape along the downtown district.
7. Signs
a. Business signs will conform to the established city sign ordinance.
b. Appropriately sized symbolic and historic three-dimensional signage is
encouraged.
c. Downtown area informational signage (e.g. business location) is
encouraged. Informational kiosks may compliment the downtown
atmosphere.
d. Historic plaques showing the history of the building are encouraged.
8. Lighting
a. Building and signage lighting should be indirect, with the light sources
hidden from direct pedestrian and motorist view. Lighting should serve
to illuminate facades, entrances and signage and provide an adequate
level of personal safety while enhancing the aesthetic appeal of the
building.
b. The City should provide light fixtures that reflect the historic character
and continuity of downtown.
9. Maintenance
a. Buildings in the downtown area should be well-maintained and
kept in good repair.
b. Painted surfaces are to be maintained.
10
c. Deteriorated historic features should be restored/repaired rather than
replaced. When the severity of the deteriorating requires replacement of
a distinctive feature, the new feature should match the old in design,
color, texture, and visual qualities and where possible, materials.
d. Chemical or physical treatments, such as sandblasting, that cause
damage to historic materials should not be used. The surface cleaning
of structures should be undertaken using the gentlest and
environmentally responsible means possible.
e. If masonry has deteriorated, re-pointing or replacement may be
required. All work and replacement should match the existing masonry
as closely as possible in style, color, type, bond pattern and size. When
re-pointing, a mortar appropriate for the brick type should be used and
match the existing mortar color.
f. Masonry should not be painted or covered with false facades.
10. Rear Entry/Egress
a. Access at rear of building from parking areas is encouraged.
b. The back of buildings ought to be maintained.
11. Awnings
a. Awning design ought to be historically appropriate and complementary
to the building and to surrounding buildings.
b. Awnings should project a minimum of 3' from the building.
c. Awnings should not extend across multiple storefronts unless consistent
or complimentary with building design.
d. Back lighting of the awning is discouraged.
e. Awnings to be constructed of durable, protective, and water repellant
materials.
f. Awnings ought to be made of canvas or materials that are compatible
with the original structure. Metal, shingles, plastic, fiberglass or shed
roofs are discouraged.
12. Building Scale/Height
a. Building bulk and scale ought to be in a sympathetic arrangement.
b. Buildings ought to have a height similar to adjacent buildings.
11
13. Fencing
a. Chain link, split rail or standard concrete block fences are strongly
discouraged.
b. Acceptable fence/wall materials are brick, cut or carved stone,
decorative or split face block and wrought iron. Green fences/hedges
are encouraged.
14. Roofs
a. Material and color of roofs ought to be consistent with the rest of the
structure and adjacent properties.
b. Green roofs are encouraged, if they are structurally feasible and don't
create additional problems such as drainage.
15. Color
Colors should be from a historic color selection and should compliment the
age and style of the structure. Property owners should limit the number of
colors on a single structure. Loud and highly contrasting colors are
discouraged; subtle, neutral or earth tones colors with low reflectance are
preferred.
16. Franchise
Franchises or national chains are to follow these standards to create
buildings compatible with the downtown area.
17. Sidewalks/Streetscape
a. Sidewalk bump outs, planters and distinct paving at intersections and
crosswalks are encouraged.
b. Bike rack locations ought to be provided.
c. The use of pavers and other texture materials are encouraged.
d. Wider sidewalks if possible are encouraged.
e. The City should adopt standards for streetscape elements to provide
uniformity throughout the downtown area. This would include benches,
directional signage, trash receptacles, fencing, planters, and parking lot
buffers.
12
VI. Recommended Steps
Taking the design considerations listed in Parts IV and V into account, the Urban Environs
Committee proposes the following short-term and longer-term steps in the revitalization of
the downtown area. All these recommendations should incorporate sustainable design to
ensure energy savings and the conservation of resources.
A. Short-Term Proiects
1. For the purposes of this report, the short-term is judged to be 1-2 years and
the projects on this list are not in order of priority, though we suggest the
city create a streetscape plan as soon as possible to prioritize and
implement this suggested list of projects.
2. Adopt a downtown logo and slogan to connect with signage, banners, etc.
in the downtown area (to give the downtown a "brand").
3. Install historical plaques showing the history of buildings along Minnesota
street. The plaques provide a pedestrian with a reason to stop in downtown
and take an interest in the building and the activities going on inside.
4. Adopt a consistent awning design on Minnesota and College streets. This
provides an immediate visual connection between buildings in the
downtown area. This committee chose not to dictate materials, colors or
designs. What's most important is that there is the intent to visually link
awnings in some way.
5. Attach banners (with the downtown brand) on decorative lampposts along
Minnesota Street.
6. Install directional signage (with the Downtown brand) coming from Highway
94 as well as Hwy 75.
7. Install planters, benches and trees on both sides of the downtown streets
B. Longer-Term Steps
1. Bury or relocate the power/telephone cables and if poles or support
structures are needed, choose the most visually interesting type.
2. Address vehicle and pedestrian separation downtown...perhaps with wider
sidewalks or planters or bushes.
3. Install traffic-calming bump-outs in the corridor between the church and the
alley and mark with planters or a pedestrian crossing (paint stripes on the
road).
4. Require facades behind main street buildings and dress up parking spaces
13
with planters and some unifying element in the Saint Joseph "back yard"
such as benches, a fountain or a flagpole. See the Minnesota Design Team
suggestions for further ideas.
5. Buffer the Parish parking lot with bushes/trees, benches or a fountain or an
information kiosk.
6. Install a connection between both sides of Main Street with an arch over the
alley between Loso's and the old First State Bank Building and a
corresponding feature/arch across the street. Part of this was envisioned by
the Minnesota Design Team's visit many years ago.
7. Investigate diagonal parking on Minnesota Street to see if tradeoffs can be
found (e.g., less parking on the Church side and more parking on the
commercial side)
14
VII. Developing the Greater Downtown Area
Our committee spent most of our time on the Core Downtown area so this section has not
been developed. What we suggest is that the Greater Downtown area, as defined in the
graphic on the title page, be subject to greater infill in order to provide for a better
transition to the commercial area adjacent to Hwy 75 and to those areas immediately
surrounding the Core downtown area.
VIII. Conclusion
Given the rapid commercial development on Highway 75, the housing development to the
north of Hwy. 75, the impending development near the College of St. Benedict, the new,
"green" elementary school and the low level of investment in the Downtown area, Saint
Joseph is in danger of losing its identified center unless downtown revitalization takes
place.
Our committee was charged with developing design standards for the downtown so that
the overall effect of new investment in old buildings as well as investment in new buildings
leaves the downtown looking better than it currently does. These standards, developed in
Part V, highlight the historical center of Saint Joseph and embrace the idea that a
downtown should encourage a sense of place by facilitating citizen interactions as well as
providing an attractive and welcoming place for visitors.
Finally, we also have added a list of short-term and long-term recommendations that are
consistent with the design standards and would help keep the small town character of
Saint Joseph as well as make it a more attractive city for newcomers, for our regular
guests (CSB and SJU students), and for casual visitors looking for an attractive place to
visit for awhile.
15
IX. Appendices
Appendix A: A Snapshot in Time
X.5.5 $
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— n
Appendix B: SWOT Analysis
Strengths:
■ College
■ Monastery
■ Post office
■ Parking
■ Walkable distance
■ Focus on downtown efforts
■ Redevelopment
■ Trees
■ Meat Market
■ Back lot potential
■ New light poles
■ Architecture
Weaknesses:
■ "Linger" deficit
■ Lack of consistence of awning
■ Lack of visual interest
■ Cable lines
■ Telephone wires
■ Setbacks are inconsistent—lack of street wall
■ Empty lots
■ Lack of visual interest
■ Telephone Poles (tall one)
■ Insufficient pedestrian vehicle separation
■ Narrow sidewalk
■ No bike racks
• Raggedy
■ Imbalance of church and downtown stores
■ Number of bars
■ Store hours of operation
■ Empty lots
■ Unattractive buildings
■ Different roof alignments
Opportunities:
■ CSB Investment
• Development
• Cooperation
■ Old Kennedy school
■ Fagade standards
• Greenspace
■ More retail
■ Growth-new business and more people
■ Mixed housing
• Streetscapes
■ Link Lake Wobegon and downtown
■ Tourist attraction- combined with college events
■ Anchor- library or community Center
■ Walkable entrance into the college
17
Threats:
■ Limit Activities
■ Cost/money
■ Fear of college
■ Lack of Density towards HWY 75
■ Transportation
■ No incentives for improvements
■ Competitions with St. Cloud and surround cities
■ Lack of parking
■ Town-Gown-cooperation in revitalization effort
■ Tour of Saints-other Recreation efforts
■ Field Street and other transportation issues
■ Car traffic
■ Misperception of HWY 75 as Downtown.
■ Industrial park deter people from coming into town
■ Lack of interest
18
Appendix C: Sustainable Design
Sustainable design (also referred to as "green design) as applied to buildings is the art of
designing buildings that comply with the principles of economic, social, and ecological
sustainability. The essential aim of sustainable design is to produce buildings in a way
that reduces the use of non-renewable resources, minimize environmental impact, and
relates people to the natural environment. It involves using tools such as life cycle
assessment and life cycle energy analysis to judge or rate the environmental impact of
various design choices. Green design is considered a means of reducing or eliminating
the impact on the environment while maintaining quality of life by using careful
assessment to substitute less harmful products and processes for conventional ones.
Sustainable design attempts to reduce the collective environmental impacts during the
construction process, as well as during the lifecycle of the building (heating, electricity
use, carpet cleaning, etc.). This design practice emphasizes efficiency of heating and
cooling systems, alternative energy sources such as passive solar, building siting,
reused or recycled materials, on-site power generation (solar technology, ground source
heat pumps, wind power), rainwater harvesting for gardening and washing and on-site
waste management such as green roofs that filter and control storm water runoff.
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Appendix D: Desired Design Elements
✓ Wider sidewalks
✓ Historical brass plaques showing the history of buildings along Minnesota Street
✓ Consistent canopy design...wraps around towards Bo Diddley's and the new
building site (Laundromat)
✓ Traffic calming bump-outs for people walking out of the church flanked by planters
✓ Burying the power/telephone cables
✓ Assuring a consistent fagade with clapboard and colors
✓ A wrought-iron arch over the alley between Loso's and the old bank building
✓ Consistent facades behind main street buildings as well as some unifying element
in Saint. Joseph's backyard "plaza" (e.g., a flagpole planters, etc.)
✓ Infill park, sitting area
✓ In all changes, a focus on green design
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Appendix E: Common Design Elements from Several Cities
The following represents some of the common design elements found in a number of
design criteria adopted by other cities. These cities include: Walla Walla, Washington;
Hayden, Idaho; Normal, Illinois; Mankato, Minnesota; Hopkins, Minnesota; Livermore,
California; Conway, Arkansas; and, Burien, Washington.
✓ All buildings should be oriented to the street with commercial activities occupying
the ground level.
✓ Housing will be encouraged as needed to undertake redevelopment of parcels.
✓ An ample supply of on and off-street parking will be located throughout the Core.
✓ Public spaces will be used to provide beauty and places to gather.
✓ Buildings with more than one story.
✓ Large storefront windows that allow people to see activity within a building.
✓ Shop doors that add character to each building.
✓ Use facades, awnings and windows for business signs in a manner that supports
the overall character of the setting.
✓ A setting that supports both automobile and pedestrian movement.
✓ Maintain and enhance building character and facades.
✓ Require any new development to occur at street front. (Do not allow traditional
suburban site design with parking between street and building)
✓ Make improvements to parking areas on "back" side.
✓ Work with property owners to encourage improvements to rear facades and the
creation of rear entrances adjacent to parking areas.
✓ The retail functions of the postal service should be kept in Downtown.
✓ Establish pedestrian crossings with supporting sidewalk/trail connections
✓ Use the Comprehensive Plan and land use controls to establish strong edges that
prevent the incremental conversion of property to nonresidential uses.
✓ Use regulations and financial incentives to promote property maintenance and to
prevent undesired uses of property.
✓ Make streetscape improvements to enhance street as corridor to Downtown.
✓ Enhance opportunity for pedestrian and bicycle use.
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✓ Curb "bump outs" at street intersections aid with pedestrian crossing and help to
calm traffic.
✓ Parking is an important ingredient of a successful Downtown. Parking in the
Downtown must be available, well distributed and free.
✓ Parking must be viewed as an asset of the entire Downtown, not of individual
properties.
✓ Downtown should encourage customers to visit multiple businesses, not just a
single stop.
✓ Informational signs related to the use of the parking area.
✓ The Downtown Special Service District is the best means for funding the public
parking system. The calculation of the service charge is based on the annual
budget for the Service District. Operating costs would include the recapture of land
costs, maintenance, snow removal and capital improvements. These costs are
converted to a cost per space. This cost factor is assigned to properties according
to the total spaces required by ordinance minus any spaces provided directly by
the parcel.
✓ The service charge applies solely to non-residential property. State law limits the
application of a service charge only to property that is classified for property
taxation and used for commercial, industrial, or public utility purposes, or is vacant
land zoned or designated on a land use plan for commercial or industrial use.
✓ Add other improvements that enhance the experience of visiting Downtown, such
as benches, waste containers and bicycle racks.
✓ The design for a way finding system should be established for both Downtown and
applications outside of the Downtown.
✓ A higher standard of cleaning and snow removal may be expected in Downtown.
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