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6. 2. <br />Regular Planning Commission <br />Meeting Date:03/26/2026 <br /> <br />Primary Strategic Plan Initiative:Create a positive image for residential neighborhoods, business districts and key <br />corridors. <br />Information <br />Title: <br />PUBLIC HEARING: Consider an Amendment to Chapter 106 (Zoning Code) Pertaining to the Maximum Front <br />Yard Setback for the R-1A, R-1B, and R-1C Districts <br />Purpose/Background: <br />At the February Planning Commission meeting, during the Public Hearing for the Minor Plat known as Serenity at <br />Rivers Edge, there was discussion about the maximum front yard setback in the R-1A, R-1B, and R-1C zoning <br />districts. The consensus of the Planning Commission was to explore options to address the proposed locations of <br />the two (2) house pads within the plat. Initial discussion focused on the potential of a variance to deviate from <br />both the maximum allowed front yard setback and the prevailing setback pattern of adjacent homes. After some <br />discussion and consideration, it was determined that an ordinance amendment may be the most practical way to <br />address this matter. Thus, the purpose of this case is to consider an amendment to Chapter 106 (Zoning Code), <br />Article IV (Residential Districts), Section 106-430 (Bulk Standards), that exempts riparian properties in the <br />Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area (MRCCA) Overlay District, the Scenic River Protection Overlay District <br />(Rum River), and the Shoreland Overlay District from the maximum front yard setback standard. <br />Notification: <br />A public hearing notice was placed in the Legal section of the Anoka Union Herald newspaper. <br />Time Frame/Observations/Alternatives: <br />Part of the allure of purchasing property on a river or a lake is being close enough to be able to view the water. <br />Each of these overlay districts requires a minimum setback from the Ordinary High Watermark (OHW) of the <br />abutting lake or river. Thus, there is no concern with structures being built too close to a body of water. The <br />proposed ordinance amendment utilizes the same language that is already in City Code Section 106-450 <br />(Accessory Structures), which allows detached accessory buildings to be placed nearer the front property <br />boundary than the home on riparian lots in these same three (3) overlay districts. <br />Amending City Code to exempt riparian lots in these overlay districts (only in the R-1A, R-1B, and R-1C zoning <br />districts) from the maximum front yard setback will accomplish several things. First, it provides more flexibility <br />in siting a home on a parcel (this could result in less tree loss on a property). Secondly, it should assist in <br />reducing potential future variance requests, which will save residents both time and money. Finally, it does not <br />threaten or conflict with the intent of these overlay districts, which aim to minimize impacts on natural resources <br />and maintain a more natural view for those on the water. <br />Funding Source: <br />This case is being handled as part of Staff's regular duties. <br />Recommendation: <br />Staff recommends adopting Ordinance No. 26-05. <br />Outcome/Action: <br />Motion to recommend City Council adopt Ordinance No. 26-05.