HomeMy WebLinkAboutZOA-11-02CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER BERRY
COUNCIL BILL NO. 17
ORDINANCE NO. 1491
Series 2011
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 26 TO SUPPORT
URBAN AGRICULTURAL USES AND ACTIVITIES
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge is authorized by the
Home Rule Charter and the Colorado Constitution and statutes to enact and enforce
ordinances for the preservation of the public health, safety and welfare; and
WHEREAS, the City's Comprehensive Plan, Envision Wheat Ridge, establishes
that the City will work to promote access to healthy foods and support urban agriculture
according to Policy SF 4.2 Accessible Healthy Foods; and
WHEREAS, said plan includes the recommendation to "revise regulations to
allow farmers' markets, produce stands and urban agriculture" within the City; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge wishes to amend the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws (the "Code ") to accomplish these goals.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1: Section 26 -123, entitled "Definitions," is amended to review the definition of
"Building, accessory," to read:
Building, accessory. A subordinate building or portion of a main building the use of
which is incidental to that of the main building 0 )R7JE on the same lot. These
accessory buildings shall include, but are not limited to, private storage sheds, detached
garages, detached carports, membrane structures that meet current bu�ldmg code
requirements, chicken coops, gazebos, greenhouses and barns. SAN TF 1%04AW
URBAN. - S, RCtEN.:U.5F - % �rAN accessory building must be clearly subordinate to a
main tw+sia BlILIDANG located on the same lot AND, an accessory structure
shall not be located on a vacant lot devoid of a main building.
Section 2: Section 26 -123 of the Code is amended to include the following new
definitions in appropriate alphabetical order:
Section 3: The Table of Uses in Section 26 -204 of the Code are amended to read:
TABLE INSET:
Table of Uses -- Residential
Uses
Notes
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
1
1A
1B
1C
2
2A
3
3A
Cane- family
P
P
P
P
�
P
P
P
P
dwelling
Two - family
P
P
P
P
dwelling
Three - family
P
P
P
dwelling
Uses
Notes
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
1
1A
1B
1C
2
2A
3
3A
Four- family
P
P
P
dwelling
Multifamily
P
P
dwelling
Bed and breakfast
See § 26 -608
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
Church, parish
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
house
Day care home,
S
S
S
S
S
S
P
P
large
Electric
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
transmission
substation
NOT PERMITTED AS AN
ACCESSORY USE ON
PROPERTIES WHERE
THE PRIMARY USE IS A
FARMERS'
S1NIZLE-.OR TWO- FAMILY
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
MAFtECETS
t1G1ME. UF3MIT CAL TO
CO(NMUNITY
DEVEL6)PMET+FT
Iff PARTMENT
REQUIRED. SEE § 26 -535
Foster care home
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Governmental and
quasi -
governmental
No outside storage
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
buildings, fire
stations and public
utility buildings
Governmental and
quasi -
governmental
Outside storage
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
buildings, fire
stations and public
utility buildings
Parking of
Shall be allowed only on lots
P
�
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
automobiles of
containing nonresidential or
I
I
I
Uses
Notes
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
1
1A
18
IC
2
2A
3
3A
clients, patients or
quasi - public uses, subject to
patrons of adjacent
§ 26 -501 CA
commercial or
nonresidential
uses
Parking of
Shall be allowed on lots
automobiles of
adjacent to business only if
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
clients, patients or
the business owner also
patrons of adjacent
owns the adjacent lot
commercial uses
Includes: noncommercial
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Parks
playgrounds or other public
recreation uses
SEA § $ -636 WHERE
LOCAT- ON A1: ►T
WITH A RESIVENTI !kt
PRODUCE
DWE1 LING tiNlT,`NIUIST
P
P
P
P
P
P
p
P
STANDS
MEET HOfAE
0 C 6, 000 f314
0 UL 111101tS PER 26-
Is13:
Public or private
golf courses,
Restaurants, lounges and
country clubs or
bars permitted as accessory
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
clubs operated for
to a public or private golf
the benefit of
members only and
course
not for gain
Public and private
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
schools, colleges
and universities.
Residential group
See § 26 -612
S
IS
S
IS
S
S
S
S
home for children
Residential group
homes, nursing
homes, and
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
congregate care
See § 26 -612
facilities for 8 or
fewer elderly
persons
Uses
Notes
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
structure
1
1A
1B
1C
2
2A
3
3A
Residential group
Accessory buildings shall not be located on a vacant lot
Accessory buildings
devoid of any primary or main building, EXCEPT FOR
URBAN_GAR{3EN USES; WH ICH MAY-OR OR'MAY NO'T
__
HOL A PRIMARY OR fiAAIN BUXPING
NO7 I?ERMITTER AS AN ACCESSORY 1JSE ON
homes, nursing
PROP?EFtT1E5 WHfiRE'iTHE PRIMAFRY USE A
SIN QL& OR TWO FAMILY HOME. SEE § >26 635
Household pets, limited to no
more than 3 dogs and 4
Plus their unweaned offspring
cats
homes, or
See § 26 -603
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
congregate care
See § 26 -612
facility for 9 or
more elderly
persons
U ° �
SEA § Z6 -637
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
GARDENS
Wind powered
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
electric generators
Not in excess of 35 feet
TABLE INSET:
Accessory Uses For
Notes
Residential Districts
Bee keeping
See § 26 -603 and 607
Ancillary uses operating
within a church's primary
e.g.: Day care centers, scout meetings
structure
Home occupations,
[NC�U MIN G PRO QPE
See § 26 -613 ANC3 § 26-636 FOR PRODUCE STANDS
STANDS
See § 26 -123; 605 (excludes keeping of swine); 606.
Accessory buildings shall not be located on a vacant lot
Accessory buildings
devoid of any primary or main building, EXCEPT FOR
URBAN_GAR{3EN USES; WH ICH MAY-OR OR'MAY NO'T
__
HOL A PRIMARY OR fiAAIN BUXPING
NO7 I?ERMITTER AS AN ACCESSORY 1JSE ON
FARMEF2 ` MRRKETS
PROP?EFtT1E5 WHfiRE'iTHE PRIMAFRY USE A
SIN QL& OR TWO FAMILY HOME. SEE § >26 635
Household pets, limited to no
more than 3 dogs and 4
Plus their unweaned offspring
cats
Private swimming pools and
See § 26 -603
tennis courts and other
Accessory Uses For
Notes
Residential Districts
2
recreational facilities
Public and private
S
communications towers,
For satellite earth receiving stations, see § 26 -616 and §
television or radio antennas
26 -617
Public utility lines and poles,
irrigation channels, storm
Cemeteries and crematories
drainage and water supply
S
facilities
Rooming and /or boarding of
On a contract basis for not less than 7 days
not more than 2 persons
S
C 0" CaARDENVS
SEE § 24-637
Water towers or
Not in excess of 35 feet
aboveground reservoirs
TABLE INSET:
Table of Uses -- Agricultural and Public Facilities
Uses
Notes
A
2
PF
Subject to requirements set forth in §
S
S
Bed- and - breakfast
26 -608
Cemeteries and crematories
Not including funeral homes
S
S
S
S
Churches parish houses
S
S
Day care home, large
S
S
Day care center, large
S
S
Day care center, small
Uses
Notes
A
2
PF
Provided that outside runs which are
Dog kennels, catteries,
adjacent to residentially zoned or
S
S
veterinary hospitals
used property are no closer than 25
feet to a side or rear lot line
Electric transmission
S
S
substations
PROHIBITED in A -1: The raising or
General farming and raising or
keeping of swine
INCLUDED in A -2: The keeping of
keeping of stock, bee keeping,
swine and/or potbellied pigs, Sus
P
P
poultry or small animals such as
Scrofa Vittatus, except such animals
rabbits or chinchillas
shall not be fed garbage
SUBRI17PAAVI GOMNItJN1TY
FARMERS' MARKETS
Peet OP11f11ENT DEPARTMENT
P
P
P
REGtiJEREt). SEE. §.26r63S
Foster care home
P
P
Fish hatcheries
P
P
Governmental and quasi-
No outside storage
governmental buildings, fire
P
P
P
stations and public utility
buildings
Governmental and quasi -
governmental buildings, fire
Outside storage
S
S
P
stations and public utility
buildings
Greenhouses and landscape
nurseries, including both
See § 26 -624
P
P
wholesale and retail sales of
related products
P
P
One - family dwelling
Includes noncommercial playgrounds
P
P
P
Parks
or other public recreation uses
Uses Notes 1 I2 PF
-�r e
Public and private schools,
colleges, and universities
Public or private golf courses,
country clubs or clubs operated
for the benefit of members only
and not for gain _
Race track, fair grounds,
amusement resorts, heliports,
radio towers and stations
Residential group homes for 8
or fewer elderly persons
Residential group or nursing
homes, or congregate care
facilities for 9 or more elderly
persons
Residential group homes for
children
Riding academies and public
stables
SEE ;§ 26 -836, WHERE 40TEE3
ON A LOT WITH A RESIDENTIA.0
gWELI:ING tJNIL,,Mt7T.N19ET P P P
tiOlUlE rC?GCUFATION
REGIJLATIt3FIS PER §i26 -611
In public facility district only public S S P
schools
Not including a private club which I S I S
provides service customarily carried
on as a business
See § 26 -612
See § 26 -612
See § 26 -612
Provided that any structure housing
animals which is adjacent to a
residentially zoned or used property
shall be no closer than 25 feet to a
side or rear lot line
R
MR
S
MR_
LITfiBAN<GftRC)M I SEE § 26 =637 P I Y
Wind- powered electric S S
generators not in excess of 35
feet.
fj
TABLE INSET:
Agricultural and Public Facilities
Notes
Districts Accessory Uses
Home occupations, INCLUDING
Meeting the definition and standards in § 26-
PROt51JCE STANDS
613 AND, FOR PRODUCE STANDS, § 26-
636
Detached private garage or carport
FA,[2MERS' MARKETS
SEE § 26 635
Household pets, limited to no more than
plus their unweaned offspring
3 dogs and 4 cats
Parking of equipment, implements,
machinery and /or large trucks, trailers
and semi - tractor trailers, when used in
support of agricultural and public
maintenance operations
Private storage sheds, barns, animal
shelters or outbuildings
Private swimming pools and tennis
See § 26 -603 for related requirements
courts
Public utility lines and poles, irrigation
Includes other similar facilities such as
channels, storm drainage and water
electric transmission lines and poles
supply facilities
Includes other similar communications
receiving or sending devices. None may
Public and private communications
exceed 35 feet in height, whether ground or
towers, television or radio antennas
structurally mounted. For satellite earth
receiving stations, see § 26 -616 and 26 -617
Rooming and /or boarding for not more
On a contract basis for not less than 7 days
than 2 persons
URSAN GARDENS
SEE t26
Water towers or above ground
Not in excess of 35 feet
reservoirs
Table of Uses -- Commercial and Industrial Districts
TABLE INSET:
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
j
P
t
In accordance with Wheat
P
P
P
Adult entertainment
Ridge Code of Laws, Chapter
establishments
3
P
P
P
P
Ambulance services
S
P
P
Amusement parks
Animal veterinary hospitals
With outside runs; no
P
P
and clinics
cremation
Animal veterinary hospitals
Where there are no outside
S
P
P
P
P
pens or runs for dogs; no
or clinics
cremation
In NC & RC Districts: Provided
S
P
P
P
P
that no more than 200 square
Antique stores
feet of building area shall be
allocated to repair
Apparel and accessory
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
stores
Appliance stores and
P
P
P
incidental service and
repair
P
P
P
P
P
Art galleries or studios
See Footnote 1
Assembly halls and
P
P
P
convention facilities
S
P
P
Auction houses
Auto service, repair and
P
P
P
maintenance shops, minor
See § 26 -631
Auto service, repair and
S
P
P
maintenance shops, major
See § 26 -631
10
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
1
Automobile and light -duty
See § 26 -628
S
S
S
truck sales and rental
Automotive parts and
P
P
P
supplies sales
Bail bonds businesses
See Footnote 2. See § 26 -634
P
P
for distance requirements.
Bakeries, retail
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
See § 26 -633
P
P
P
P
P
Banks, loan and finance
offices
Bed and breakfast homes
Subject to requirements set
P
P
P
P
P
forth in § 26 -608.
Bicycle stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Blueprinting, photostatic
EXCLUDING: Large printing,
S
P
P
P
P
copying and other similar
publishing and /or book binding
reproduction services
establishments
See Footnote 1
Boat, recreational vehicle
S
S
S
and trailer sales, rentals
See § 26 -628
and service
S
S
S
Body art establishments
Book stores, stationery and
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
card stores
Building contractor's service
S
P
P
shop and storage yard
incidental to an
See § 26 -629
office /showroom principal
use.
Business machine or
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
computer stores
Butcher shops and food
EXCLUDING: Food
P
P
P
lockers
processing
II
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2 '
Cabinet and woodworking
S
shops
Camera and photographic
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
service and supply stores
Candy, nut and
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
confectionery stores
Caretaker residence
Only one (1) unit for caretaker
P
P
P
P
or manager
Carpet cleaning and
S
fumigating
Carting, express, hauling or
S
storage yard
Car wash, automatic
S
P
P
Car wash, coin operated
S
P
P
Caterers
P
P
P
Day care center, large
P
P
P
Day care center, small
P
P
P
Clinics and offices for the
C -1, C -2 & I INCLUDE:
S
P
P
P
P
counseling and treatment of
Residential facilities.
NC & RC EXCLUDES:
psychological, social,
marital, developmental or
Residential facilities
similar conditions,
ALL districts INCLUDE:
excluding substance abuse
Counseling and treatment for
clinics
alcoholism
P
P
Cold storage plant
Commercial machine
S
P
P
shops
12
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
C -
2
e.g.: YMCA's, YWCA's,
P
P
P
P
P
Community buildings
churches, libraries, parks,
museums, aquariums and art
galleries.
Construction and heavy
P
P
equipment sales, service,
See § 26 -629
rental and storage
Contractor's plant or
S
storage yard
Dairy products stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Day care center and
P
P
P
preschools, large
Day care center and
P
P
P
preschools, small
Department or variety
P
P
P
stores
P
P
P
Drug stores
Eating establishments,
S
S
S
S
S
drive through
Eating establishments, sit
S
P
P
P
P
down
Electric transmission and
S
S
S
S
S
public utility substations
Electrical motors and
S
armature regrinding shops
Electrical supplies and
EXCLUDING: Contractors
P
P
P
service
storage yards
Subject to § 26 -628; in RC
P
P
P
P
Equipment rental
District: Outside storage and
agencies
display prohibited
P
P
P
P
Exterminators
13
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
1
2
Farm equipment sales,
See § 26 -628
P
P
service and storage
SUBMITTAL. TO
P
P
P
P
P
COMMUNITY
FARMERS' MARKETS
C1E1tEOPMENT
DEPAE2TMENT RECILJIRER
SEE § 26.635
Floral shops
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Furniture stores
S
P
P
P
P
Garden supply stores
See Footnote 1
Gift, novelty or souvenir
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
stores
INCLUDES: Private clubs,
P
P
P
restaurants and lounges,
driving ranges, and those uses
Golf courses
commonly accepted as
accessory thereto when
located on the same premises
Governmental and quasi-
P
P
P
P
P
governmental buildings and
No outside storage
offices, fire stations or
public utility buildings
Governmental and quasi-
S
S
S
P
P
governmental buildings and
Outside Storage
offices, fire stations or
public utility buildings
Greenhouses and
S
S
P
P
P
landscape nurseries, retail
See § 26 -624
Greenhouses and
S
P
P
landscape nurseries,
See § 26 -624
wholesale
14
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
?
2
t
Grocery or convenience
See Footnote 1
P
P
P
P
P
stores, no gas pumps
Grocery stores which may
S
S
S
P
P
include no more than 1
gasoline service island with
See Footnote 1
no more than 2 dispensing
pumps
Hair, nail and cosmetic
P
P
P
P
P
services
S
P
P
P
P
Hardware stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Hobby and craft stores
See Footnote 1
P
P
P
Home furnishing stores
Home improvements
P
P
P
supply stores
There shall be 1,000 square
S
S
S
Hotels or motels for
feet of gross lot area for each
transient occupancy.
unit
P
P
Ice plants
e.g.: Roller rinks, bowling
P
P
P
Indoor amusement and
alleys, arcades and similar
recreational enterprises
uses
PROHIBITED: Outdoor flea
P
P
P
Indoor flea markets
markets
5
P
P
P
P
Interior decorating shops
S
S
S
Itinerant sales
See § 26 -630
S
P
P
P
P
Jewelry stores
See Footnote 1
S
Kennels
15
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
/
Laundry and dry cleaning
S
S
P
P
P
shops
Laundry and dry cleaning
P
P
P
P
P
pick up stations
Leather goods and luggage
P
P
P
stores
Linen supply
P
P
P
Liquor stores
P
P
P
Locksmith shops
P
P
P
P
P
Unenclosed storage of any
P
P
P
Lumber yards and building
materials shall be screened
supply stores
from view from adjacent
properties and streets
PROVIDED: An antidote
S
exists and is readily available
for such vaccine, serums or
Manufacture of vaccines,
toxins; and approval of such
serums and toxins
manufacture is received from
the state department of health
and the county health
department
Manufacturing, processing,
See § 26 -505; § 26 -631 and §
P
P
assembly, or light industrial
26 -123, definitions
operations
Manufacturing, fabrication
S
and /or processing of
concrete products
See Chapter 11, Article 10
P
P
P
P
P
Massage therapist
Code of Laws for additional
restrictions
See Chapter 11, Article 10
P
P
P
P
P
Massage therapy center
Code of Laws for additional
restriction
16
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
9
2
A
Meat, poultry or seafood
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
stores
Medical and dental offices,
P
P
P
P
P
clinics or laboratories,
Pharmacies and optical stores
excluding substance abuse
are accessory use
clinics
Mini - warehouses for inside
- P
P
storage
Mobile or modular homes
See § 26 -628
S
S
or building sales
Mortuaries and
S
S
S
crematories
Motor fueling stations
S
P
P
Motorcycle sales and
See § 26 -628
P
P
P
service
Music stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Newsstands
For the sale of newspapers,
P
P
P
P
P
magazines, etc.
Office supply stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Offices: General
P
P
P
P
P
administrative, business
and professional offices
Optical stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Outdoor amusement
S
P
P
facilities
Paint and wallpaper stores
See Footnote 1
P
P
P
P
Parking of automobiles of
P
P
P
P
P
clients, patients or patrons
Subject to § 26 -501 CA
of adjacent commercial or
nonresidential uses
17
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
1
2
i
Parking of not more than 3
See § 26 -619; § 26 -123,
S
S
S
commercial truck - tractors
definitions
and/or semi - trailers
When in conformance with the
parking design standards set
forth in § 26 -501
It is not intended that such
parking limitations shall apply
to pickup and delivery trucks
normally associated with
business operations
Pawnshops
S
Pet stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Pharmacies
S
P
P
P
P
Picture framing shops
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Plumbing and heating
EXCLUDING: Outdoor storage
P
P
P
supply stores and shops
yards
Printing, engraving and
S
other related production
processes
Private clubs, social clubs,
P
P
P
bingo parlors and similar
uses
PRt3DUCE STAt,DS
$E� t 26-636
P
P
P
P
P
Psychic advisors and
S
S
S
P
similar uses
Research laboratories,
P
P
offices and other facilities
for research
18
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
1
2
t
Residential group and
P
P
P
P
P
nursing homes and
congregate care facilities
for 8 or fewer elderly
persons
Residential group and
S
S
S
nursing homes and
congregate care facilities
for 9 or more elderly
persons
Residential group home for
S
S
S
children
Such residential uses may be
P
P
P
P
P
Residential uses in
extended, enlarged, and /or
existence on 3/11/97
reconstructed so long as no
additional dwelling units are
created
Residential uses in
See § 26 -626
P
P
P
P
P
commercial zones
Rooming and
S
S
P
P
P
boardinghouses
RV, boat, trailer and travel
See § 26 -628
P
P
trailer storage
Sales, repair, rental and
P
P
servicing of any commodity
that the manufacture,
fabrication, processing or
sale of which is permitted in
the district
Schools for industrial or
S
S
business training, including
Conducted entirely within an
vocational trade or
enclosed building
professional schools
INCLUDES: Those uses
S
S
S
P
P
commonly accepted as
Schools: public; private
necessary thereto when
colleges and universities
located on the same premises
19
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
Shoe repair shops
P
P
P
P
P
Shoe stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Shops for custom work or
P
P
for making articles,
materials or commodities to
See § 26 -631; § 26 -632
be sold at retail on the
premises
In accordance with Wheat
P
P
P
Social club
Ridge Code of Laws, Chapter
11, Article XI
Sporting goods stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Stone cutting or polishing
P
P
works
Studio for professional work
P
P
P
P
P
or teaching of fine arts,
photography, music, drama
or dance
S
S
P
Substance abuse clinics
Tailor, dressmaking or
P
P
P
P
P
clothing alteration shops
Taverns, night clubs,
P
P
P
lounges, private clubs and
bars
Television, radio, small
S
P
P
P
P
appliance repair and
See Footnote 1
service shops
Temporary Christmas tree,
P
P
P
P
produce and bedding plant
See § 26 -627
sales lots
P
P
P
Theatres, indoor
Tobacco stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
20
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
9
2
Toy stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Transit station, public or
S
S
S
private
URBAN GARDENS
SEE § ?6 -637
P
P
P
P
P
Upholstery shops
P
P
P
Video rentals
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Warehousing and outside
See § 26 -631
P
P
storage
Maximum 75% total area as
S
P
P
Warehouse /office
warehouse; minimum 25% as
total area as office
Watch and jewelry repair
P
P
P
P
P
shops
Woodworking or carpentry
S
P
P
shops for the making of
articles for sale upon the
See § 26 -632
premises, such as cabinets
or custom furniture
Footnote:
1 The amount of building space devoted to retail use is limited to 5,000 square feet in
NC and RC Districts.
2 In addition to being allowed as a Permitted Principal Use in the C -2 and I zone
districts, bail bonds businesses may be permitted in Planned Industrial Development
districts if approved as part of an Outline Development Plan (ODP) and in conformance
with the requirements of Code section 26 -634.
21
TABLE INSET:
Commercial and Industrial District Accessory
Uses
Notes
Accessory buildings and structures
See § 26 -625
Electric transmission or other public utility
lines and poles, irrigation channels, storm
drainage and water supply facilities
FARMERS' MARKETS
SEE § 26-635
Food services
Primarily for the occupants of a building
containing a permitted use when
located within the same building
PRbbtjCE STANDS
SEE 636
Residential uses in commercial zones
See § 26 -626
Outside storage or display
See § 26 -631
URBAN GARDENS
SEE § 26-6a7
Key:
P = Permitted Principal Uses
S = Special Uses
Section A: Section 26 -502 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26 -502. Landscaping requirements.
A. Landscaping defined: A combination of living plants, such as trees, shrubs, vines,
groundcover, flowers, VEGETABLE PLANTS, sod or grass; and may include natural
features, such as rock, stone and bark; and structural features, including, but not limited
to, fountains, reflecting pools, art work, screen walls, fences and benches. Uncontrolled
weeds shall not be considered as landscaping; however, maintained natural grasses
and natural flowers may be considered as landscaping.
Sidewalks, whether paved or gravel, which serve as functional links between parking
areas and main structures, or which serve as general public access routes around a
main structure, or between a main structure and a public street or alley, shall not be
counted as landscaping. Other sidewalks or paths which serve as casual access to or
through landscape areas may be counted a nonliving landscape features.
22
Section 5: Section 26 -613 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26 -613. Home occupations.
A. Home occupation. Home occupations are permitted as accessory uses to any
conforming (as to use) residential dwelling; provided, however, that the following
requirements are met:
1. Such use shall be conducted entirely within a dwelling or accessory structure
except for sales of plants; aid produce, OR4TtiEFt AGRICLTU
URAL
PRODUC % grown. RAISER, QR PROD,tJCEp on the premises and carried on
only by the inhabitants living there, with the exception that should the operator be
substantially, physically handicapped a nonresident may be employed to assist
the operator in his work to the extent he requires it to make up for his physical
handicap.
2. Not more than one (1) employee may live off - premises.
3. Such use shall be clearly incidental and secondary to the use of the dwelling
for dwelling purposes and shall not change the character thereof.
4. The total area used for said purposes shall not exceed twenty -five (25)
percent of the gross floor area of the user's dwelling unit
5. .:� a .« u, c + z �� k +s EACH
11. Home occupations are limited to the following business or commercial
activities:
a. Craft work, such as the making of pottery, jewelry or dolls, flower
arranging, smithing and woodworking.
b. Garment work, such as tailoring, dressmaking, millinery work, ironing and
garment repair.
c. Office uses, such as office uses for door -to -door, home party and
telephone solicitation sales, investment counseling, typing, notary public,
travel services, surveyors, physicians, dentists, lawyers, accountants,
architects, engineers and other similar services.
d. Repair services for electronics, small appliances, and mechanical
devices, bicycles and upholstery.
e. Tutoring, music lessons, dance lessons, gymnastics lessons, swim
lessons and tennis lessons.
f. Artistic endeavors, such as art studios, portrait studios, photography
studios, writing and lithography.
g. Garage sales, not to exceed four (4) three -day periods, which need not be
consecutive, per calendar year.
h. Hair care services carried on by only one (1) inhabitant of the dwelling. No
other employee shall be permitted.
23
i. Small day care home.
j. Sales directly related but merely ancillary to the primary home occupation,
such as:
(1) Sale of hair care products by a beautician or barber.
(2) Sale of accompaniment items, such as neckties, bows, ribbons or
belts for a tailor or dressmaker.
(3) Sale of component parts or accessories used in repair services for
electronics, small appliances, bicycles, etc.
(4) Supplies related to a class, course of instruction, or lessons
conducted on the site.
(5) Sale of artistic or craft works which were created on the site, such as
24
Section 6: Sections 26 -635, 26 -636, and 26 -637 are hereby added to Article Vl.
Supplementary Regulations:
25
2b
Section 7: The Table of Uses in Section 26 -1111 of the Code are amended to read:
Permitted Uses
Use Group
MU -C
MU -C
Interstate
MU -G TOD
MU -N
Residential
Assisted living facility
P
P
P
P
Dwelling, single detached
NP
NP
NP
P
Dwelling, single attached
P
P
P
P
Dwelling, duplex
P
NP
NP
P
Dwelling, multiple
P
P
P
P
Dwelling, live /work
P
P
P
P
Foster care home
NP
NP
NP
P
Residential group home
P
P
P
P
Public Civic; and institutional
Community buildings and cultural
facilities, including libraries,
museums, and art galleries
P
P
P
P
Hospital
C
C
C
NP
Parks, open space, playgrounds,
and plazas
P
P
P
P
Place of worship
P
P
P
P
Public uses and buildings
P
P
P
P
Recreation facilities, indoor and
outdoor
P
P
P
P
Schools, public and private,
colleges, universities, and trade
schools
P
P
P
P
Utilities, mayor
NP
NP
NP
NP
Utilities, minor
P
P
P
P
URBAN GARDENS (SEE §26-
637)
P
P
P
P
Transit stations, public or private
C
C
C
C
Commercial Services and Retail
Adult entertainment
NP
NP
NP
NP
Animal daycare, indoor with no
outdoor runs or pens
P
P
P
P
Bail bonds (per §26 -634)
C
C
NP
NP
Banks and financial institutions,
no drive - through or drive -up
P
p
P
P
Banks and financial institutions,
with drive - through or drive -up
C
P
C
C
Bars, taverns, and night clubs
P
P
P
P
27
Permitted Uses
Use Group
MU-C
MU -C
Interstate
MU.0 TOD
MU -N
Bed and breakfast
P
P
P
P
Car washes
NP
C
NP
NP
Day care center, child and adult
P
P
P
P
Drive -up or drive - through uses
C
P
C
C
(per §26-1106.E)
Eating establishment, sit down
P
P
P
P
Eating establishment, drive-
C
P
C
C
through or drive -up
Fast food eating establishment,
C
P
C
C
drive- through or drive -up
Motor fueling stations
C
C
NP
C
Motor vehicles sales, outdoor
NP
NP
NP
NP
display
Motor vehicle sales, indoor display
P
P
C
C
Outdoor storage
NP
NP
NP
NP
Pawn brokers
NP
NP
NP
NP
Personal services
P
P
P
P
Photocopying and printing
P
P
P
P
PRODUCE STANDS (SEE §26-
6;..4 Afi1D. §26 61 FOR HOME
P
P
P
P
oceupATrONS)
Recreation facilities, commercial
P
P
P
P
Repair, rental and servicing of
C
P
C
C
automobiles, no outdoor storage
Retail sales — up to 20,000 gsf for
P
P
P
P
one tenant space
Retail sales — up to 60,000 gsf for
P
P
C
C
one tenant space
Retail sales — over 60,000 gsf for
C
C
NP
NP
one tenant space
URSAN G1k1RUENS (SEE §26-
637)
P
P
P
P
Veterinary clinics and hospitals,
P
P
P
P
no outdoor runs or pens
Hospitality and Entertainment
Art studios and galleries
P
P
P
P
Hotels, motels, and extended stay
lodging
P
P
P
P
28
Permitted Uses
Use Group
MU -C
MU -C
MU -C TQD
MU -N
MAXIMU
MINIMU
Interstate
TYPE OF
ALLOWE
Studios, including art, music,
SIZE AND
M
M
REQUIREMENT
dance, television and radio
P
P
P
P
broadcasting stations
S
Theaters
P
P
P
P
Office and Industrial
Medical and dental clinics
P
P
P
P
Offices
P
P
P
P
Office- warehouse, no outdoor
C
C
C
NP
storage
NO LARGER
9 PER
MAY Y BE
- AY
Outdoor storage
NP
NP
NP
NP
Restricted light industrial
C
C
C
NP
Wholesale
C
C
C
C
Ancillary Uses
Parking facilities P P P P
Temporary Uses
Special events, including festivals
MARKET tS IN
SfGN
and farmers markets. FOR
P
P
P
P I
FARMERS' MARKETS, SEE §
26.635
SEE �'2 &-535
Key: P = Permitted C = Conditional Use (see § 26 -1117) NP = Not Permitted
Section 8: Table 1 in Section 26 -709 of the Code is amended to include the following
sign types:
TABLE INSET:
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN RESIDENTIAL, AGRICULTURAL, AND PUBLIC FACILITIES ZONES
(R -1, R -1A, RAB, R -1C, R -2, R -2A, R -3, R -3A, A -1, A -2, PF)
MAXIMUM
MAXIMU
MINIMU
OTHER
TYPE OF
ALLOWE
PERMIT
SIZE AND
M
M
REQUIREMENT
SIGN
D
REQUIRED
HEIGHT PER
NUMBER
SETBAC
S
SIGN
K
13. Miscellaneous
MAY NOT BE
01,
NO LARGER
9 PER
MAY Y BE
- AY
FARMER
YES
THAN 60
FARMER
NONE
f3N p1SPLAY
S'
NO
SQUARE
S'
WHEN THE
MARKET
FEET.
MARKET
MARKET tS IN
SfGN
tSRERATIC4N.
SEE �'2 &-535
29
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN RESIDENTIAL, AGRICULTURAL, AND PUBLIC FACILITIES ZONES
(R -1, R -1A, R -18, R -1C, R -2, R -2A, R -3, R -3A, A -1, A -2, PF)
MAXIMU
MAXIMUM
MAXIMU
MINIMU
OTHER
TYPE OF
ALLOWE
PERMIT
SIZE AND
M
M
REQUIREMENT
SIGN
D
REQUIRED
HEIGHT PER
NUMBER
SETBAC
S
REQUIRED
HEIGHT
SIGN
K
PER
SIGN
WHERE
13. Miscellaneous
PRODLIGE
s�ANn Is A
HOME
t2GCUPATl4N
THE sME
MAY NOT:BE
MU41f
II LUMI"o
NOFQR
RE QLIIREMER
MAYO Li
R.
TEMPORARY
T
T S FOR HOME
ffN,DPw,
PRODUG
YES
FREESTANDI
NG SIGNS,
O4"GtlF?ATION
1 PER
5 FEET
t2U
M ETI,PiG
ONTHS
E ST AND
YES FOR
SIGNS;IN.F
STAND
WHEt1'THE
SIGN
PERMANENT
ALL OTHER
PRODUCE
WALL SIGNS.
PROOLIG E
STANDS ".MAy
STAfitO'IS
OPERATIONAL
SIGNU
S[GN UR -TQ 6
SEE § 26 636
sQUARE
WISE ZE AN6
tIP TOS.FEET
IN ftE3Cal'tT:
MAXIMUM
S
SIZE OF'6
URBAN
SQUAREFEET
MAY NOT BE
GARDEN
YES
YES
AND
1
5 FEET
ILLUMINATED:.
SIGN
MAXIMUM
SEE§ 26
HEIGHT OF =5
FEET
Section 9: Table 1 in Section 26 -710 of the Code is amended to include the following
sign types:
TABLE INSET:
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL AND MIXED USE DISTRICTS
(NC, RC, C -1, C-2, 1)
MAXIMU
M SIZE
MAXIMUM
MINIMUM
OTHER
TYPE OF
ALLOWED
PERMIT
AND
SETBACK
REQUIREMENTS
SIGN
REQUIRED
HEIGHT
NUMBER
PER
SIGN
13. Miscellaneous
30
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL AND MIXED USE DISTRICTS
INC, RC, C -1, C -2, 1)
MAXIMU
M SIZE
MAXIMUM
MINIMUM
OTHER
TYPE OF
ALLOWED
PERMIT
AND
SETBACK
REQUIREMENTS
SIGN
REQUIRED
HEIGHT
NUMBER
PER
SIGN
MAY NOT BE
ILLUMINATED,
MAY ONLY BE
GF-
NO
FARMERS
YES
LARGER
1PER
WHEN THE
MARKET
NO
THAP150
FARMERS
NO
MARKET IS IN
SIGN
SQUARE
* MARKET
OPERATION;
FEET..
SEE §36 635
MASfkMG!
MAY NOT SE
M SIZE
ILLUMINATED.
NO.EER
OF &
MAY ONLY BE
R
TEMPORARY
SQUARE
ON DISPLAY
PRODUCE
FREESTANOW
FEET
1PER
DURING
STAND
YES
G SIGNS. Y'ES
AND
STAN[?
5 FEET
MONTHS WHEN
SIGN
PER
MAXlMtI
THE PRODUCE
PERMANENT
M
STANDlS
WALLSIGNSi
HEIGHT
6PEE2ATIONAL
OF'S
SEE
FEET.
MAXtMU
M SIZE
OF °;!
SQUARE
S, URBAN
FEET
MAY NOT BE
GARDEN
YES
YES
AND
1
5 FEET
ILLUMINATED.
SIGN
M"U
SEE ,§ U4#
lilt
HEIGHT
OF3
FEET
Section 10: Safety Clause The City Council hereby finds, determines, and declares
that this Ordinance is promulgated under the general police power of the City of Wheat
Ridge, that it is promulgated for the health, safety and welfare of the public and that this
Ordinance is necessary for the preservation of health and safety and for the protection
of public convenience and welfare. The City Council further determines that the
Ordinance bears a rational relation to the proper legislative object sought to be attained.
Section 11: Severabiiity' Conflicting Ordinances Repealed If any section,
subsection or clause of the ordinance shall be deemed to be unconstitutional or
otherwise invalid, the validity of the remaining sections, subsections and clauses shall
31
not be affected thereby. All other ordinances or parts of the ordinances in conflict with
the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed.
Section 12: Effective Date This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen days after final
publication, as provided by Section 5.11 of the Charter.
INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of 8 to 0 on
this 9th day of May, 2011, ordered published with Public Hearing and consideration of
final passage set for Monday, May 23rd, 2011 at 7:00 p.m„ in the Council Chambers,
7500 West 29 Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado, and that it takes effect 15 days after
final publication.
READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by
a vote of 5 to 2 , this 2 of May 2011.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this 23rd day of May 2011.
WISM31
Michael Snow, City Clerk
Appr ved As To Form ,% -.
i
r� r
Ger d E. Da I, City Attorney
First Publication: May 12, 2011
Second Publication: May 26 2011
Wheat Ridge Transcript
Effective Date: June 10, 2011
32
City Council Minutes May 23, 2011 Page 2
CITIZENS' RIGHT TO SPEAK
Karen Thaler, thanked the Wheat Ridge Police Department for the Citizen's Police
Academy which she graduated from last Wednesday. Ms. Thaler stated that the
information offered during the program is very informative and expressed that the
academy lasts twelve weeks and is open to residents of the City. Ms. Thaler
recommended that residents also consider taking the City of Wheat Ridge Citizens
Academy in the fall.
David Land, a Wheat Ridge 2020 board member and a participant in the 38`" Ave
stakeholders meetings announced that the meetings have been well attended with a
variety of citizens and business owners. So far there have been two meetings with the
third upcoming meeting on June 7 The group has a vision statement and guiding
principles in place, as well as, four corner stones to circle back to on every aspect of the
project. These are identity, vitality, appeal, and mobility. Mr. Land stated that recent
talks have focused on business retention, improving circulation from a pedestrian and
automobile stand point, roadway design, and ways to calm traffic.
PUBLIC HEARINGS AND ORDINANCES ON SECOND READING
1. Council Bill 17 -2011 — amending Chapter 26 to support Urban Agricultural Uses
and Activities.
Mayor DiTullio opened the public hearing.
Council Bill 17 -2011 was introduced on second reading by Ms. Berry. Deputy City Clerk
Bruce Roome assigned Ordinance No. 1491.
Ms. Showalter presented the staff report. The main purpose of the proposed code
amendments is to support and clarify the farmer's markets, produce stands, community
gardens, and community supported agriculture.
Ted Heyd, planning consultant for LiveWell Wheat Ridge. Mr. Heyd is glad to be part of
the review process for this ordinance. He thanked City staff, the Planning Commission
and City Council for getting to this point in the process of considering this code
amendment. LiveWell Wheat Ridge supports the ordinance.
Jesse Hill, has had the pleasure over the last year to work with LiveWell Wheat Ridge.
Mr. Hill supports the ordinance but would like to see an amendment removing language
that states that produce sold at these stands needs to be grown on site. He feels this
will lead to many unintended consequences and he has not seen much support in the
community for that specific part of the bill.
City Council Minutes May 23, 2011 Page 3
John Lanterman, is involved in the Access to Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Task Force
and is on the faculty at the University of Colorado, College of Architecture and Planning.
Mr. Lanterman spoke in support of the ordinance and stated that more and more
municipalities are considering urban agriculture which creates a sense of community
and enhances economic activity.
Kim Calomino, from Wheat Ridge 2020 spoke in support of the ordinance. She
believes if Council were to pass the ordinance the community will be seen as vibrant
and further the City's historical ties.
Amanda Weaver, a farm owner and fruit and vegetable producer in Wheat Ridge, is in
favor of the ordinance. She also teaches Urban Agriculture at the University of Colorado
at Denver and agrees with Mr. Lanterman about how this is becoming a popular trend
nation wide.
Amy DePierre, is also in favor of this zoning amendment. She and her husband are
starting a community shared agriculture garden. She feels this will poise Wheat Ridge
as a municipal model for urban agriculture for Denver, as well as, the Nation.
Mayor DiTullio closed the public meeting
IL Motion by Ms. Berry to approve Council Bill 17 -2011 (Ordinance 1491) on second
reading and that if take effect 15 days after final publication; seconded by Mrs.
Langworthy;
Motion by Mr. Stites to amend the original motion as follows:
1. That the submittal requirement to Community Development for urban gardens
is removed: and
2. That the site plan review process for urban gardens accessory to a single or
two family home is removed.
Second by Mrs. Sang; motion carried 4 -3 with Ms. Berry, Mrs. Jay and Mrs. Adams
voting No.
Original motion, as amended, carried 5 -2 with Mr. DeMott and Mrs. Sang voting No.
2. Council Bill 18 -2011 — adopting amendments to the 2006 International Building
Code, as previously adopted by reference, concerning conveyance requirements
and certain referenced standards.
Mayor DiTullio opened the public hearing.
Council Bill 18 -2011 was introduced on second reading by Mr. Stites. Deputy City Clerk
Bruce Roome assigned Ordinance No. 1492.
Case No. ZOA-11-02
ryM
'Wheat
Urban Agriculture
1
Urban Agriculture
-- Health
- Food security Community garden in
public right -of -wagon a
median in Seattle, WA
'� W heac F�d�n
Urban Agriculture
4 y L v�
City M
'� W heatl�c3�e
vLw s f 4e— r`we ( Ir
2
Urban Agriculture
— r R VUUcc JLOt tup
Community Gardens, Community -
Supported Agriculture, etc. ( "Urban
Gardens ")
j w�t�at
SF 4.2 - Accessib /e Heaffhy Foods
The City will continue to work with the agricultural community,
small business owners, and health organimtions to provide
residents with opportunities for accessible and affordable healthy
foods.
Strategies:
A. Continue investment in community gardens;
B. Revise regulations to allow farmers markets, produce
stands, and urban agriculture (including shared
gardens, composting, and domestic animals on large
lots); and
C. Preserve existing small agricultural operations (keep
current agricultural zoning or allow limited agricultural
operations in various zoning districts).
Envision
WHEAT RIDGE
n M.. m, a ea Fm...
I The cry a ly's gardem and
hnmer's mavketpmvide access to
affordable, hen /dry local foods.
"&Cj_) Y "�����
�
s%c r ur
C�
Urban Agriculture
Urban Airiculture Code Amendments
. AeWmalzc �gziaoA asdwma
-Minor changes to home «�
occupation regulations
to clarify ability to sell
from home - �`�� -'( `` 'Q
�Wh�acFZ<��
0
Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
primarily grown, raised, or
produced on the site
• In residential zone districts, hours
restricted from 7am to sundown
Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
call I� LL U w � �1
restricted to 6 SF.
I others
• Business license required
W heatR��'-
5
Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
residential districts
Wheat id .c
►Z._�'
Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
uaniici -up w w Jr
• Submittal required to
Community Development
• Business license required
W 9. , , tIIggW
Ii
Urban Aericulture Code Amendments
non -food ornamental crops,
such as flowers
• Includes community gardens,
market gardens, CSAs
Wheat[ idga,
Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
would not apply to informal
yard sharing on residential
properties °-A'�EP al
�
<a,o
-Wheat id e
�6-L v
(tizz
r7 u�t�i:�
r
V `
Urban
riculture Code Amendments
adequate on- street parking new
• Hours of operation restricted to
7am to sundown in residential
zone districts
ch o�
'� W heat [�dbe
Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
- Residential zone districts: maximum
600 —1000 SF
— Commercial zone districts:
maximum 500 SF
cha
�WheatF�c�x:
9
Urban Agriculture
�� W heatl�d�e
Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
• Review of ordinance by Access to
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
(AFFV) task force members
cMw
"� W heatl�3ge
4
Urban Agriculture
e
'� W heal i =e
Urban Agriculture
Envision
WHEAT RIDGE
A'1 -'.' I ."'h.......
III ICI CJl II.0 111 VV: I:ICCIL IUUgf= ICJ I UCI IU,
• Will allow uses that positively impact
health, environment, and
community development
Cilyd
'Wheat ul,�e
10
- City of
WheatRdge P ,
ITEM NO:
DATE: May 23, 2011
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
` r
TITLE: COUNCIL BILL NO. 17 -2011 - AN ORDINANCE
AMENDING CHAPTER 26 TO SUPPORT UR$AN
AGRICULTURAL USES AND ACTIVITIES
® PUBLIC HEARING ❑ ORDINANCES FOR 1 sT READING (05/09/2011)
❑ BIDS/MOTIONS ® ORDINANCES FOR 2 ND READING (05/23/2011)
❑ RESOLUTIONS
QUASI -JUDICIAL: ❑ YES NO
n
ommunity eve ientl&for City Manager
ISSUE:
In the past year, the City has witnessed an increased interest in the topic of urban agriculture.
Planning Division staff has received several inquiries related to urban agriculture, such as
whether community gardens are allowed on vacant lots or backyards and whether greenhouses
would be allowed on the same lot as a business or restaurant. For most of these topics, the
current zoning code contains little to no regulations.
Due to the large interest in growing and selling produce in the City, the proposed ordinance
would amend Chapter 26 to clarify what urban agriculture uses are allowed in various zone
districts. The proposed ordinance establishes where three main uses — urban gardens, fanners'
markets, and produce stands — are allowed and includes minimal regulations for each use.
PRIOR ACTION:
A presentation on urban agriculture was given to City Council at a Study Session in December,
2010. At that time, Council gave staff direction to proceed with zoning code amendments that
would clarify where urban agriculture uses were allowed. Council recommended a permissive
approach that would allow uses such as produce stands and community gardens in all zone
districts. Staff gave an update on the proposed amendments to Council at a Study Session on
March 7, 2011. At the first reading for the ordinance on May 9, 2011, City Council approved the
ordinance with the condition that urban gardens on residentially -zoned lots where the primary
ZOA -11 -02
Council Action Form
May 23, 2011
Page 2
use is a single- or two - family home be subject to the Site Plan Review Process, rather than the
Special Use Permit Process. This change has been made in the attached ordinance for second
reading.
Planning Commission discussed the proposed code amendments with staff at a Study Session in
January, 2011. At a Public Hearing on April 21, 2011 Planning Commission voted to approve the
ordinance with the condition that urban gardens be allowed as a special use (rather than not
permitted at all) on residentially -zoned lots where the primary use is a single- or two - family
home. Planning Commission also recommended a modification to the definition of "urban
garden," which as been incorporated into the ordinance. Planning Commission passed a motion
recommending that staff consider a substantially reduced special use permit (SUP) fee for urban
gardens that are accessory to a single- or two - family home, with the intent to encourage urban
agriculture in the City and to not create a review process that will be cost - prohibitive. For more
discussion of the fee topic, please see the attached memo.
Due to the direction from Planning Commission, staff recommended that urban gardens
accessory to single- and two - family homes are subject to the Site Plan Review, which is less
expensive and less timely than the SUP process. City Council included the Site Plan Review as a
condition in their approval of the ordinance upon first reading and this approach has been
incorporated into the attached ordinance.
Draft meeting notes from the April 21 Planning Commission Public Hearing are included as
attachment 3.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The proposed ordinance is not anticipated to have a direct financial impact on the City.
BACKGROUND:
hi some communities, promoting urban agriculture dates as far back as the 1960s and 1970s,
when community gardens first started to form in cities like New York City and Philadelphia. In
the past 10 years, however, the trend to produce and sell local food in urban communities has
become ever more prevalent. Urban and suburban communities are drawn to urban agriculture
for a variety of reasons, including:
• Economic and community development
• Environmental sustainability
• Connecting urban dwellers to fresh, healthy food
In Wheat Ridge, a community founded on an agricultural past, there is a renewed interest in how
agriculture can be integrated into a largely built -out City. Many residents already have home
gardens and there is an existing community garden on City-owned land, called Happiness
Gardens. However, there is demonstrated interest by residents, schools, and business to expand
urban agricultural uses — including community gardens, yard sharing, community- supported
agriculture (CSA), and roadside produce stands. The desire for Wheat Ridge residents to access
shared gardens, especially if they do not have room on their private lot, is demonstrated by the
Council Action Form
May 23, 2011
Page 3
Healthy Food Assessment completed by LiveWell Wheat Ridge in 2010 (see results of this
assessment in Attachment 2).
The intent of the attached ordinance is to clarify where uses related to growing and selling
produce are allowed in the City. Chapter 26 already contains fairly flexible provisions that allow
residential homeowners to keep animals on their property as well as grow and sell produce from
their home through a home occupation license. The primary amendments in the ordinance relate
to urban gardens, farmers markets, and produce stands. Based on policy direction received from
City Council at a Study Session in December 2010 and from Planning Commission at a Study
Session in January 2011, the approach is to be quite permissive, allowing these uses in all zone
districts.
Process
Staff started researching zoning regulations related to urban agriculture one year ago. There is a
limited number of jurisdictions in the Denver metro area that have updated their codes to address
urban agriculture; Denver has already passed such changes and Lakewood is currently in the
process of updating their code. Thus the majority of staff's research entailed communities
throughout the country — including Seattle, Cleveland, Milwaukee, and Kansas City — that have
been recognized for adopting zoning codes that support urban agricultural activities.
In drafting the code amendments, Planning staff sought input from relevant City departments and
divisions, including code enforcement officers, the Building Division, and the Parks Department.
Staff also utilized real -life inquiries from community members and residents to test the proposed
code. A group of Wheat Ridge residents that are part of the Access to Fresh Fruits and
Vegetables (AFFV) task force also reviewed and commented on a draft of the ordinance,
providing very helpful feedback to staff. The proposed ordinance also reflects input received
from Study Sessions with City Council on December 6, 2010 and March 7, 2011, as well as a
Study Session with Planning Commission on January 6, 2011.
Overview of Proposed Ordinance
Below please find a summary of the amendments contained in the proposed ordinance.
1. Landscape Definition
The definition of landscaping in Section 26 -502 is amended to include vegetable plants,
to clarify that areas planted as a garden shall qualify as landscaped area.
2. Home Occupation Regulations
The regulations pertaining to home occupations (Section 26 -513) are revised to clarify
that the sales of produce or other agricultural products made on -site are allowed to occur
outdoors (as opposed to all other home occupations, which must occur indoors). This
amendment is intended to allow homeowners to establish temporary produce stands on
their property as a home occupation.
Council Action Form
May 23, 2011
Page 4
3. Accessory Building Regulations
The definition of an accessory building has been modified to clarify that urban garden
uses may have an accessory structure (such as a shed or greenhouse) even if there is not a
primary structure on the lot.
4. Urban Gardens
Urban gardens are defined as an area of land formally managed, organized and
maintained by an individual or group of individuals to grow and harvest food crops
and/or non -food ornamental crops, such as flowers. Urban gardens may include
community gardens (typically a non -profit model in which plots are leased for a minimal
cost to growers and food is consumed or donated), market gardens (where food grown on
site is sold for a profit), and community- supported agriculture, or CSA, where people
purchase shares of produce from a garden or farm.
In the proposed ordinance, urban gardens are allowed in all zone districts. However, prior
to establishing such a use, an applicant must first submit to the Community Development
Department a packet that includes a site plan and operational information (including
hours of operation and proposed parking areas) for review. The ordinance also establishes
some basic regulations for urban garden uses, including:
• Signage: each garden would be allowed one non - illuminated sign up to 6 square
feet in size and 5 feet in height
• Landscape buffer: a minimum 5 -foot planted area is required wherever an urban
garden abuts a property with a residential use
• Parking: there is no specific requirement for off - street parking. However, if there
is not adequate parking on adjacent streets, then the Community Development
Department may require some on -site parking
• Hours of operation: in residential zone districts, hours of operation are restricted
to 7 am to sunset (and any exterior lighting must be turned off at this time)
• Structures: structures such as sheds and greenhouses are allowed, but they would
need to follow the limits on size and height, as well as setbacks, for accessory
structures in the property's underlying zone district.
As discussed above, urban gardens on residential lots that are accessory to a single- or
two- family home are allowed, but the property owner must complete the Site Plan
Review Process for the garden. This additional review is proposed due to concerns about
high intensity of use in residential areas and potential negative impacts, such as traffic,
that an urban garden might generate. The intent is that formally managed gardens,
typically with an exchange of money through a lease or other mechanism, on residential
lots would require additional review. Informal yard - sharing between neighbors would not
qualify as an urban garden and thus a Site Plan submittal to the City would not be
required for such activities.
Council Action Form
May 23, 2011
Page 5
Farmers' Markets
The proposed ordinance would allow farmers' markets in any zone district as a primary
or accessory use. Markets would not be allowed as an accessory use on residential
properties with a single- or two - family home as the primary use. The proposed language
requires a submittal with parking and operational info to Community Development. This
submittal may be part of the typical business license review process since all markets are
required to obtain a business license. Under the proposed ordinance, farmer's markets
would be subject to the following regulations:
• Signage: each market is permitted one temporary sign or banner up to 50 square
feet in size. The sign may only be up when the market is in operation.
• Hours of operation: in residential zone districts, hours of operation are restricted
to lain to sunset.
• Parking: there are not specific off - street parking requirements. However, a
proposed market must provide parking information to Community Development
so it is clear that there is adequate parking provided, whether it be on -site, on an
adjacent site, or on nearby streets.
6. Produce Stands
The current zoning code allows for seasonal produce stands in Agricultural zone districts
only. The proposed amendments would allow temporary stands, for up to 6 months per
year, in any zone district. This means that homeowners with a home occupation could set
up a stand, as could any business or urban garden in the City. Produce stands do not
require a submittal to Community Development, but staff would be able to review each
stand as part of the business license review process. Produce stands would be subject to
the following regulations:
• Products sold: produce or agricultural products. Products sold at a stand must
have been primarily grown, raised, or produced on the property where the stand is
located.
• Seasonal operations: stands may be up for a maximum of 6 months each year
and must be removed/stored when not in use.
• Hours of operation: in residential zone districts, hours of operation are restricted
to lam to sunset.
• Parking: temporary off - street parking should be provided if there is not adequate
on- street parking nearby
• Signage: stands that are home occupations would have to meet home occupation
regulations, which allow up to 2 square feet of signage (plus additional square
footage for informational signs for parking, etc). All other stands would be
allowed one sign up to 6 square feet in size and 5 feet tall.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the ordinance since it advances the City's goals, established in
Envision Wheat Ridge, to support urban agriculture and access to local food. Specifically, under
policy Sustainable Future 4.2, Envision Wheat Ridge recommends that the City revise its
Council Action Form
May 23, 2011
Page 6
regulations to allow farmers' market, produce stands, and urban agriculture. The proposed
ordinance would fulfill this strategy and help the City to implement its comprehensive plan.
Adoption of the proposed ordinance will allow a variety of urban agricultural uses in Wheat
Ridge and enable the community to pursue uses and activities, such as community gardens and
farmers' markets, which will positively impact health, the environment, and community
development.
"I move to approve Council Bill No. 17 -2011 an ordinance amending Chapter 26 to
support urban agricultural uses and activities on second reading and that it take effect 15
days after final publication."
Or,
"I move to postpone indefinitely Council Bill No. 17 -2011 an ordinance amending
Chapter 26 to support urban agricultural uses and activities for the following reason(s)
REPORT PREPARED BY:
Sarah Showalter, Planner II
Ken Johnstone, Community Development Director
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Council Bill No. 17 -2011
2. Summary of Results from LiveWell Wheat Ridge Health Foods Assessment
3. Memo from Staff Regarding Site Plan Review Fees
4. Planning Commission Meeting Notes from April 21, 2011
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER BERRY
COUNCIL BILL NO. 17
ORDINANCE NO.
Series 2011
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 26 TO SUPPORT
URBAN AGRICULTURAL USES AND ACTIVITIES
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge is authorized by the
Home Rule Charter and the Colorado Constitution and statutes to enact and enforce
ordinances for the preservation of the public health, safety and welfare; and
WHEREAS, the City's Comprehensive Plan, Envision Wheat Ridge, establishes
that the City will work to promote access to healthy foods and support urban agriculture
according to Policy SF 4.2 Accessible Healthy Foods; and
WHEREAS, said plan includes the recommendation to "revise regulations to
allow farmers' markets, produce stands and urban agriculture" within the City; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge wishes to amend the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws (the "Code ") to accomplish these goals.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1: Section 26 -123, entitled "Definitions," is amended to review the definition of
"Building, accessory," to read:
Building, accessory. A subordinate building or portion of a main building the use of
which is incidental to that of the main building OR,U,SE on the same lot. These
accessory buildings shall include, but are not limited to, private storage sheds, detached
garages, detached carports, membrane structures that meet current building code
reauirements. chicken coops, gazebos, qreenhouses and barns. AN-URBAN.GARDEN
UR B AN,GARDEN USES AwAN accessory building must be clearly subordinate to a
main me BUILDING located on the same lot AND Addi%ienaNj an accessory structure
shall not be located on a vacant lot devoid of a main building.
Section 2: Section 26 -123 of the Code is amended to include the following new
definitions in appropriate alphabetical order:
Attachment 1
1
Section 3: The Table of Uses in Section 26 -204 of the Code are amended to read:
Table of Uses -- Residential
TABLE INSET:
Uses
Notes
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
1
1A
18
1C
2
2A
3
3A
One - family
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
dwelling
Two - family
P
P
P
P
dwelling
Three- family
P
P
P
dwelling
Four - family
P
P
P
dwelling
2
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
Uses
Notes
1
1A
1B
1C
2
2A
3
3A
Multifamily
P
P
dwelling
Bed and breakfast
See § 26 -608
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
Church, parish
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
house
Day care home,
S
S
S
S
S
S
P
P
large
Electric
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
transmission
substation
NOT PERMITTED AS AN
ACCESSORY USE ON
PROPERTIES WHERE
THE PRIMARY USE IS A
FARMERS'
SINGLE - OR TWO- FAMILY
P
P
P
p
P
P
P
P
MARKETS
HOME. SUBMITTAL TO
COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT
REQUIRED. SEE § 26 -635
Foster care home
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Governmental and
quasi -
governmental
No outside storage
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
buildings, fire
stations and public
utility buildings
Governmental and
quasi -
governmental
Outside storage
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
buildings, fire
stations and public
utility buildings
Parking of
Shall be allowed only on lots
automobiles of
containing nonresidential or
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
clients, patients or
quasi- public uses, subject to
patrons of adjacent
§ 26-501 CA
commercial or
Uses
Notes
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
1
1A
18
1C
2
2A
3
3A
nonresidential
uses
Parking of
automobiles of
Shall be allowed on lots
clients, patients or
adjacent to business only if
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
patrons of adjacent
the business owner also
commercial uses
owns the adjacent lot
Includes: noncommercial
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Parks
playgrounds or other public
recreation uses
SEE §26436. WHERE
LOCATED ONA LOT
WITH ^A RESIDENTIAL
PRODUCE
DWELLIN6 UNIT, MUST
STANDS
MEET HOME
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
OCCUPATION
REGULATIONS PER § 26"-
613.
Public or private
golf courses,
country clubs or
Restaurants, lounges and
clubs operated for
bars permitted as accessory
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
the benefit of
to a public or private golf
members only and
course
not for gain
Public and private
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
schools, colleges
and universities.
Residential group
See § 26 -612
S
S
S IS
S
S
S
S
home for children
Residential group
homes, nursing
homes, and
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
congregate care
See § 26 -612
facilities for 8 or
fewer elderly
persons
Residential group
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
homes, nursing
See § 26 -612
homes, or
4
TABLE INSET:
Accessory Uses For
Notes
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
Uses
Notes
1
1A
1B
1C
2
2A
3
3A
congregate care
Accessory buildings shall not be located on a vacant lot
Accessory buildings
devoid of any primary or main building, EXCEPT FOR
U RBAN
-11
GARDEN USES, WHICH MAY.QR MAY NOT
HAVE A PRIMARY OR MAIN BUILDING
NOT PERMITTED AS•AN ACCESSORY USE ON
facility for 9 or
7
PROPERTIES WHERE THE PRIMARY USE-' A
SINGLE- ORTWO- FAMILY HOME. SEE'§ 26 -635
Household pets, limited to no
more than 3 dogs and 4
Plus their unweaned offspring
cats
more elderly
persons
SITE PLAN REVIEW
REQUIRED WHERE
ACCESSORY TO A
SINGLE - OR TWO- FAMILY
URBAN
HOME. SUBMITTAL TO
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
GARDENS
COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT
REQUIRED. SEE § 26 -637
Wind powered
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
electric generators
Not in excess of 35 feet
TABLE INSET:
Accessory Uses For
Notes
Residential Districts
Bee keeping
See § 26 -603 and 607
Ancillary uses operating
within a church's primary
e.g.: Day care centers, scout meetings
structure
Home occupations,
INCLUDING PRODUCE
See § 26 -613 AND §;26;636 FOR PRODUCE STANDS
STANDS
See § 26 -123; 605 (excludes keeping of swine); 606.
Accessory buildings shall not be located on a vacant lot
Accessory buildings
devoid of any primary or main building, EXCEPT FOR
U RBAN
-11
GARDEN USES, WHICH MAY.QR MAY NOT
HAVE A PRIMARY OR MAIN BUILDING
NOT PERMITTED AS•AN ACCESSORY USE ON
FARMERS MARKETS
7
PROPERTIES WHERE THE PRIMARY USE-' A
SINGLE- ORTWO- FAMILY HOME. SEE'§ 26 -635
Household pets, limited to no
more than 3 dogs and 4
Plus their unweaned offspring
cats
Accessory Uses For
Notes
Residential Districts
2
Private swimming pools and
Bed - and - breakfast
tennis courts and other
See § 26 -603
recreational facilities
Public and private
26 -608
communications towers,
For satellite earth receiving stations, see § 26 -616 and §
television or radio antennas
26 -617
Public utility lines and poles,
S
irrigation channels, storm
drainage and water supply
facilities
S
Rooming and /or boarding of
On a contract basis for not less than 7 days
not more than 2 persons
S
S
SITE PLAN`REVIEW REQUIRtb ; QN'PROPERTIES
URBAN GARDENS
WHERE THE PRIMARY USE IS A SINGLE- OR TWO-
S
FAMILY HOME. SEE § 26-637
Water towers or
Not in excess of 35 feet
aboveground reservoirs
S
Table of Uses -- Agricultural and Public Facilities
TABLE INSET:
Uses
Notes
A
2
PF
Bed - and - breakfast
Subject to requirements set forth in §
S
S
26 -608
Cemeteries and crematories
Not including funeral homes
S
S
Churches parish houses
S
S
Day care home, large
S
S
Day care center, large
S
S
Day care center, small
S
S
Uses
Notes
A
2
PF
Provided that outside runs which are
Dog kennels, catteries,
adjacent to residentially zoned or
S
S
veterinary hospitals
used property are no closer than 25
feet to a side or rear lot line
Electric transmission
S
S
substations
PROHIBITED in A -1: The raising or
keeping of swine
General farming and raising or
INCLUDED in A-2: The keeping of
keeping of stock, bee keeping,
swine and /or potbellied pigs, Sus
P
P
poultry or small animals such as
Scrofa Vittatus, except such animals
rabbits or chinchillas
shall not be fed garbage
SUBMITTAL TO COMMUNITY
FARMERS' MARKETS
DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
P
P
P
REQUIRED. SEE § 26 -635
P
P
Foster care home
P
P
Fish hatcheries
Governmental and quasi-
No outside storage
governmental buildings, fire
P
P
P
stations and public utility
buildings
Governmental and quasi -
governmental buildings, fire
Outside storage
S
S
P
stations and public utility
buildings
Greenhouses and landscape
nurseries, including both
See § 26 -624
P
P
wholesale and retail sales of
related products
P
P
One - family dwelling
Parks
Includes noncommercial playgrounds
P
P
P
7
Uses Notes I A 12 P
PRODUCE STANDS
Public and private schools,
colleges, and universities
Public or private golf courses,
country clubs or clubs operated
for the benefit of members only
and not for gain
Race track, fair grounds,
amusement resorts, heliports,
radio towers and stations
Residential group homes for 8
or fewer elderly persons
Residential group or nursing
homes, or congregate care
facilities for 9 or more elderly
persons
Residential group homes for
children
Riding academies and public
stables
Not including a private club which
provides service customarily carried
on as a business
See § 26 -612
See § 26 -612
See § 26 -612
Provided that any structure housing
animals which is adjacent to a
residentially zoned or used property
shall be no closer than 25 feet to a
side or rear lot line
P P P
S S P
S S
S S
P P
S
S
P P
SUBMITTAL 70 COMMUNITY
URBAN' GARDENS DEVELO T P R P
REQUIRED.;SEE
Wind - powered electric S S
8
Uses
Notes
A
2
PF
generators not in excess of 35
PRODUCE STANDS
636
Detached private garage or carport
feet.
SEE § 26=635
Household pets, limited to no more than
plus their unweaned offspring
3 dogs and 4 cats
TABLE INSET:
Agricultural and Public Facilities
Notes
Districts Accessory Uses
Home occupations, INCLUDING
Meeting the definition and standards in § 26-
613 AND, FOR PRODUCE STANDS, §26 -
PRODUCE STANDS
636
Detached private garage or carport
FARMERS MARKETS
SEE § 26=635
Household pets, limited to no more than
plus their unweaned offspring
3 dogs and 4 cats
Parking of equipment, implements,
machinery and /or large trucks, trailers
and semi - tractor trailers, when used in
support of agricultural and public
maintenance operations
Private storage sheds, barns, animal
shelters or outbuildings
Private swimming pools and tennis
See § 26 -603 for related requirements
courts
Public utility lines and poles, irrigation
Includes other similar facilities such as
channels, storm drainage and water
electric transmission lines and poles
supply facilities
Includes other similar communications
Public and private communications
receiving or sending devices. None may
exceed 35 feet in height, whether ground or
towers, television or radio antennas
structurally mounted. For satellite earth
receiving stations, see § 26 -616 and 26 -617
Rooming and /or boarding for not more
On a contract basis for not less than 7 days
than 2 persons
URBAN;GARDEN$I
SEE §,, 64 37
Water towers or above ground
Not in excess of 35 feet
reservoirs
Table of Uses -- Commercial and Industrial Districts
TABLE INSET:
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
Adult entertainment
In accordance with Wheat
P
P
P
establishments
Ridge Code of Laws, Chapter
3
Ambulance services
P
P
P
P
Amusement parks
S
P
P
Animal veterinary hospitals
With outside runs; no
P
P
and clinics
cremation
Animal veterinary hospitals
Where there are no outside
S
P
P
P
P
or clinics
pens or runs for dogs; no
cremation
In NC & RC Districts: Provided
S
P
P
P
P
Antique stores
that no more than 200 square
feet of building area shall be
allocated to repair
Apparel and accessory
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
stores
Appliance stores and
P
P
P
incidental service and
repair
Art galleries or studios
See Footnote 1
P
P
P
P
P
Assembly halls and
P
P
P
convention facilities
Auction houses
S
P
P
Auto service, repair and
P
P
P
maintenance shops, minor
See § 26 -631
Auto service, repair and
S
P
P
maintenance shops, major
See § 26 -631
10
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
Automobile and light -duty
See § 26 -628
S
S
S
truck sales and rental
Automotive parts and
P
P
P
supplies sales
Bail bonds businesses
See Footnote 2. See § 26 -634
P
P
for distance requirements.
Bakeries, retail
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
See § 26 -633
P
P
P
P
P
Banks, loan and finance
offices
Bed and breakfast homes
Subject to requirements set
P
P
P
P
P
forth in § 26 -608.
Bicycle stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Blueprinting, photostatic
EXCLUDING: Large printing,
S
P
P
P
P
copying and other similar
publishing and /or book binding
reproduction services
establishments
See Footnote 1
Boat, recreational vehicle
S
S
S
and trailer sales, rentals
See § 26 -628
and service
S
S
S
Body art establishments
Book stores, stationery and
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
card stores
Building contractor's service
S
P
P
shop and storage yard
incidental to an
See § 26 -629
office /showroom principal
use.
Business machine or
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
computer stores
Butcher shops and food
EXCLUDING: Food
P
P
P
lockers
processing
11
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
Cabinet and woodworking
S
shops
Camera and photographic
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
service and supply stores
Candy, nut and
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
confectionery stores
Caretaker residence
Only one (1) unit for caretaker
P
P
P
P
or manager
Carpet cleaning and
S
fumigating
Carting, express, hauling or
S
storage yard
Car wash, automatic
S
P
P
Car wash, coin operated
S
P
P
Caterers
P
P
P
Day care center, large
P
P
P
Day care center, small
P
P
P
Clinics and offices for the
C -1 C -2 & I INCLUDE:
S
P
P
P
P
counseling and treatment of
Residential facilities.
NC & RC EXCLUDES:
psychological, social,
marital, developmental or
Residential facilities
similar conditions,
excluding substance abuse
ALL districts INCLUDE:
clinics
Counseling and treatment for
alcoholism
Cold storage plant
P
P
Commercial machine
S
P
P
shops
12
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
C
I
e.g.: YMCA's, YWCA's,
P
P
P
P
P
Community buildings
churches, libraries, parks,
museums, aquariums and art
galleries.
Construction and heavy
P
P
equipment sales, service,
See § 26 -629
rental and storage
Contractor's plant or
S
storage yard
Dairy products stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Day care center and
P
P
P
preschools, large
Day care center and
P
P
P
preschools, small
Department or variety
P
P
P
stores
Drug stores
P
P
P
Eating establishments,
S
S
S
S
S
drive through
Eating establishments, sit
S
P
P
P
P
down
Electric transmission and
S
S
S
S
S
public utility substations
Electrical motors and
S
armature regrinding shops
Electrical supplies and
EXCLUDING: Contractors
P
P
P
service
storage yards
Equipment rental
Subject to § 26 -628; in RC
P
P
P
P
District: Outside storage and
agencies
display prohibited
Exterminators
P
P
P
P
13
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
/
Farm equipment sales,
See § 26 -628
P
P
service and storage
SUBMITTAL TO
P
P
P
P
P
COMMUNITY
FARMERS'MARKETS
DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT REQUIRED.
SEE § 26-636
Floral shops
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Furniture stores
P
P
P
Garden supply stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Gift, novelty or souvenir
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
stores
INCLUDES: Private clubs,
P
P
P
restaurants and lounges,
driving ranges, and those uses
Golf courses
commonly accepted as
accessory thereto when
located on the same premises
Governmental and quasi-
P
P
P
P
P
governmental buildings and
No outside storage
offices, fire stations or
public utility buildings
Governmental and quasi-
S
S
S
P
P
governmental buildings and
Outside Storage
offices, fire stations or
public utility buildings
Greenhouses and
S
S
P
P
P
landscape nurseries, retail
See § 26 -624
Greenhouses and
S
P
P
landscape nurseries,
See § 26 -624
wholesale
Grocery or convenience
See Footnote 1
P
P
P
P
P
14
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
stores, no gas pumps
Grocery stores which may
S
S
S
P
P
include no more than 1
gasoline service island with
See Footnote 1
no more than 2 dispensing
pumps
Hair, nail and cosmetic
P
P
P
P
P
services
Hardware stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Hobby and craft stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Home furnishing stores
Home improvements
P
P
P
supply stores
Hotels or motels for
There shall be 1,000 square
S
S
S
feet of gross lot area for each
transient occupancy.
unit
P
P
Ice plants
Indoor amusement and
e.g.: Roller rinks, bowling
P
P
P
alleys, arcades and similar
recreational enterprises
uses
Indoor flea markets
PROHIBITED: Outdoor flea
P
P
P
markets
S
P
P
P
P
Interior decorating shops
S
S
S
Itinerant sales
See § 26 -630
Jewelry stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
S
Kennels
Laundry and dry cleaning
S
S
P
P
P
15
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
shops
Laundry and dry cleaning
P
P
P
P
P
pick up stations
Leather goods and luggage
P
P
P
stores
Linen supply
P
P
P
Liquor stores
P
P
P
Locksmith shops
P
P
P
P
P
Unenclosed storage of any
P
P
P
Lumber yards and building
materials shall be screened
supply stores
from view from adjacent
properties and streets
PROVIDED: An antidote
S
exists and is readily available
for such vaccine, serums or
Manufacture of vaccines,
toxins; and approval of such
serums and toxins
manufacture is received from
the state department of health
and the county health
department
Manufacturing, processing,
See § 26 -505; § 26 -631 and §
P
P
assembly, or light industrial
26 -123, definitions
operations
Manufacturing, fabrication
S
and /or processing of
concrete products
See Chapter 11, Article 10
P
P
P
P
P
Massage therapist
Code of Laws for additional
restrictions
See Chapter 11, Article 10
P
P
P
P
P
Massage therapy center
Code of Laws for additional
restriction
Meat, poultry or seafood
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
1
stores
Medical and dental offices,
P
P
P
P
P
clinics or laboratories,
Pharmacies and optical stores
excluding substance abuse
are accessory use
clinics
Mini - warehouses for inside
P
P
storage
Mobile or modular homes
See § 26 -628
S
S
or building sales
Mortuaries and
S
S
S
crematories
S
P
P
Motor fueling stations
Motorcycle sales and
See § 26 -628
P
P
P
service
S
P
P
P
P
Music stores
See Footnote 1
For the sale of newspapers,
P
P
P
P
P
Newsstands
magazines, etc.
Office supply stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Offices: General
P
P
P..
P
P
administrative, business
and professional offices
Optical stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Outdoor amusement
S
P
P
facilities
Paint and wallpaper stores
See Footnote 1
P
P
P
P
Parking of automobiles of
P
P
P
P
P
clients, patients or patrons
Subject to § 26-501 CA
of adjacent commercial or
nonresidential uses
Parking of not more than 3
1 See § 26 -619; § 26 -123,
S
S
S
17
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
P
l
commercial truck - tractors
definitions
and /or semi - trailers
When in conformance with the
parking design standards set
forth in § 26 -501
It is not intended that such
parking limitations shall apply
to pickup and delivery trucks
normally associated with
business operations
Pawn shops
S
Pet stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Pharmacies
S
P
P
P
P
Picture framing shops
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Plumbing and heating
EXCLUDING: Outdoor storage
P
P
P
supply stores and shops
yards
Printing, engraving and
S
other related production
processes
Private clubs, social clubs,.
P
P
P
bingo parlors and similar
uses
PRODUCE STANDS
SEE_. §;26-636
P
P
P 1p
P
Psychic advisors and
S
S
S
P
similar uses
Research laboratories,
P
P
offices and other facilities
for research
Residential group and
P
P
P
P
P
nursing homes and
congregate care facilities
for 8 or fewer elderly
18
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
persons
Residential group and
S
S
S
nursing homes and
congregate care facilities
for 9 or more elderly
persons
Residential group home for
S
S
S
children
Such residential uses may be
P
P
P
P
P
Residential uses in
extended, enlarged, and /or
existence on 3/11/97
reconstructed so long as no
additional dwelling units are
created
Residential uses in
See § 26 -626
P
P
P
P
P
commercial zones
Rooming and
S
S
P
P
P
boardinghouses
RV, boat, trailer and travel
See § 26 -628
P
P
trailer storage
Sales, repair, rental and
P
P
servicing of any commodity
that the manufacture,
fabrication, processing or
sale of which is permitted in
the district
Schools for industrial or
S
S
business training, including
Conducted entirely within an
vocational trade or
enclosed building
professional schools
INCLUDES: Those uses
S
S
S
P
P
Schools: public; private
commonly accepted as
necessary thereto when
colleges and universities
located on the same premises
P
P
P
P
P
Shoe repair shops
Shoe stores
See Footnote 1
S
I P
P
P
P
19
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
/
Shops for custom work or
P
P
for making articles,
materials or commodities to
See § 26 -631; § 26 -632
be sold at retail on the
premises
In accordance with Wheat
P
P
P
Social club
Ridge Code of Laws, Chapter
11, Article XI
Sporting goods stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Stone cutting or polishing
P
P
works
Studio for professional work
P
P
P
P
P
or teaching of fine arts,
photography, music, drama
or dance
Substance abuse clinics
S
S
P
Tailor, dressmaking or
P
P
P
P
P
clothing alteration shops
Taverns, night clubs,
P
P
P
lounges, private clubs and
bars
Television, radio, small
S
P
P
P
P
appliance repair and
See Footnote 1
service shops
Temporary Christmas tree,
P
P
P
P
produce and bedding plant
See § 26 -627
sales lots
Theatres, indoor
P
P
P
Tobacco stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Toy stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
20
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
Accessory buildings and structures
C
I
Transit station, public or
lines and poles, irrigation channels, storm
S
S
S
private
SUBMITTAL TO
P
P
P
P
P
COMMUNITY
URBAN GARDENS
DEVELOPMENT
DEPARTMENT REQUIRED.
SEE §26-637
P
P
P
Upholstery shops
Video rentals
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Warehousing and outside
See § 26 -631
P
P
storage
Maximum 75% total area as
S
P
P
Warehouse /office
warehouse; minimum 25% as.
total area as office
Watch and jewelry repair
P
P
P
P
P
shops
Woodworking or carpentry
S
P
P
shops for the making of
articles for sale upon the
See § 26 -632
premises, such as cabinets
or custom furniture
Footnote:
1 The amount of building space devoted to retail use is limited to 5,000 square feet in
NC and RC Districts.
2 In addition to being allowed as a Permitted Principal Use in the C -2 and I zone
districts, bail bonds businesses may be permitted in Planned Industrial Development
districts if approved as part of an Outline Development Plan (ODP) and in conformance
with the requirements of Code section 26 -634.
TABLE INSET:
Commercial and Industrial District Accessory
Notes
Uses
Accessory buildings and structures
See § 26 -625
Electric transmission or other public utility
lines and poles, irrigation channels, storm
21
drainage and water supply facilities
FARMERS' MARKETS
SEE §16 -635
Food services
Primarily for the occupants of a building
containing a permitted use when
located within the same building
PRODUCE STANDS
SEE § 26 -636
Residential uses in commercial zones
See § 26 -626
Outside storage or display
See § 26 -631
URBAN GARDENS
$EE § 26 -637
Key:
P = Permitted Principal Uses
S = Special Uses
Section 4: Section 26 -502 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26 -502. Landscaping requirements.
A. Landscaping defined: A combination of living plants, such as trees, shrubs, vines,
groundcover, flowers, VEGETABLE PLANTS; sod or grass; and may include natural
features, such as rock, stone and bark; and structural features, including, but not limited
to, fountains, reflecting pools, art work, screen walls, fences and benches. Uncontrolled
weeds shall not be considered as landscaping; however, maintained natural grasses
and natural flowers may be considered as landscaping.
Sidewalks, whether paved or gravel, which serve as functional links between parking
areas and main structures, or which serve as general public access routes around a
main structure, or between a main structure and a public street or alley, shall not be
counted as landscaping. Other sidewalks or paths which serve as casual access to or
through landscape areas may be counted a nonliving landscape features.
Section 5: Section 26 -613 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26 -613. Home occupations.
A. Home occupation. Home occupations are permitted as accessory uses to any
conforming (as to use) residential dwelling; provided, however, that the following
requirements are met:
1. Such use shall be conducted entirely within a dwelling or accessory structure
except for sales of plants,�d produce QR OTHER AGRICULTURAL
RO
PDUCTSgrown, RA,I,SEp, OR PRODU�,Ep on the premises and carried on
only by the inhabitants living there, with the exception that should the operator be
substantially, physically handicapped a nonresident may be employed to assist
0%
the operator in his work to the extent he requires it to make up for his physical
handicap.
2. Not more than one (1) employee may live off - premises.
3. Such use shall be clearly incidental and secondary to the use of the dwelling
for dwelling purposes and shall not change the character thereof.
4. The total area used for said purposes shall not exceed twenty -five (25)
percent of the gross floor area of the user's dwelling unit.
5. - 4 w " a,. sa,n ti zi ii.hvttw EACH
11. Home occupations are limited to the following business or commercial
activities:
a. Craft work, such as the making of pottery, jewelry or dolls, flower
arranging, smithing and woodworking.
b. Garment work, such as tailoring, dressmaking, millinery work, ironing and
garment repair.
c. Office uses, such as office uses for door -to -door, home party and
telephone solicitation sales, investment counseling, typing, notary public,
travel services, surveyors, physicians, dentists, lawyers, accountants,
architects, engineers and other similar services.
d. Repair services for electronics, small appliances, and mechanical
devices, bicycles and upholstery.
e. Tutoring, music lessons, dance lessons, gymnastics lessons, swim
lessons and tennis lessons.
f. Artistic endeavors, such as art studios, portrait studios, photography
studios, writing and lithography.
g. Garage sales, not to exceed four (4) three -day periods, which need not be
consecutive, per calendar year.
h. Hair care services carried on by only one (1) inhabitant of the dwelling. No
other employee shall be permitted.
L Small day care home.
j. Sales directly related but merely ancillary to the primary home occupation,
such as:
(1) Sale of hair care products by a beautician or barber.
(2) Sale of accompaniment items, such as neckties, bows, ribbons or
belts for a tailor or dressmaker.
(3) Sale of component parts or accessories used in repair services for
electronics, small appliances, bicycles, etc.
(4) Supplies related to a class, course of instruction, or lessons
conducted on the site.
(5) Sale of artistic or craft works which were created on the site, such as
pottery, jewelry, dolls, portraits, paintings, sculptures, etc.
23
Section 6: Sections 26 -635, 26 -636, and 26 -637 are hereby added to Article VI.
Supplementary Regulations:
24
A. LOCATION: PRODUCE STANDS MUST BE LOCATED ON PRIVATE
PROPERTY.
3
E.
B
04i
BUFFER BETWEEN THE GARDEN OR FARM AREA AND THE PROPERTY
LINE.
C.
Section 7: The Table of Uses in Section 26 -1111 of the Code are amended to read:
Permitted Uses
Use Group
MU -C
MU -C
MU -C TOD
MU -N
Interstate
Residential
Assisted living facility
P
P
P
P
Dwelling, single detached
NP
NP
NP
P
Dwelling, single attached
P
P
P
P
Dwelling, duplex
P
NP
NP
P
Dwelling, multiple
P
P
P
P
Dwelling, live /work
P
P
P
P
Foster care home
NP
NP
NP
P
Residential group home
P
P
P
P
Public, Civic, and Institutional
Community buildings and cultural
facilities, including libraries,
P
P
P
P
museums, and art galleries
Hospital
C
C
C
NP
Parks, open space, playgrounds,
P
P
P
P
and plazas
Place of worship
P
P
P
P
Public uses and buildings
P
P
P
P
Recreation facilities, indoor and
P
P
P
P
outdoor
Schools, public and private;
colleges, universities, and trade
P
P
P
P
schools
Utilities, major
NP
NP
NP
NP
Utilities, minor
P
P
P
P
URBAN GARDENS (SUBMITTAL
REQUIRED TD COMMUNITY
P
P
P
P
DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT.
SEE §26437,)
Transit stations, public or private
C
C
C
C
Commercial Services and Retail
Adult entertainment
NP
NP
NP
NP
Animal daycare, indoor with no
P
P
P
P
outdoor runs or pens
Bail bonds (per §26 -634)
C
C
NP
NP
Banks and financial institutions,
P
P
P
P
no drive - through or drive -up
Banks and financial institutions,
C
P
C
C
with drive - through or drive -up
27
Permitted Uses
Use Group
MU -C
MU -C
MU -C TOD
MU -N
Interstate
Bars, taverns, and night clubs
P
P
P
P
Bed and breakfast
P
P
P
P
Car washes
NP
C
NP
NP
Day care center, child and adult
P
P
P
P
Drive -up or drive - through uses
C
P
C
C
(per §26 -1106. E)
Eating establishment, sit down
P
P
P
P
Eating establishment, drive-
C
P
C
C
through or drive -up
Fast food eating establishment,
C
P
C
C
drive - through or drive -up
Motor fueling stations
C
C
NP
C
Motor vehicles sales, outdoor
display
NP
NP
NP
NP
Motor vehicle sales, indoor display
P
P
C
C
Outdoor storage
NP
NP
NP
NP
Pawn brokers
NP
NP
NP
NP
Personal services
P
P
P
P
Photocopying and printing
P
P
P
P
PRODUCE STANDS (SEE §26-
636 AND §26- 613'FOR HOME
P
P
P
P
OCCUPATIONS)
Recreation facilities, commercial
P
P
P
P
Repair, rental and servicing of
C
P
C
C
automobiles, no outdoor storage
Retail sales — up to 20,000 gsf for
P
one tenant space
P
P
P
Retail sales — up to 60,000 gsf for
P
P
C
C
one tenant space
Retail sales — over 60,000 gsf for
C
C
NP
NP
one tenant space
URBAN GARDENS: (SUBMITTAL
REQUIRED TO COMMUNITY
DEVELOPMENT DEPARTMENT;
P
P
P
P
SEE §2amvn
Veterinary clinics and hospitals,
no outdoor runs or pens
P
P
P
P
Hospitality and Entertainment
Art studios and galleries
P
P
P
P
28
Permitted Uses
Use Group
MU -C
MU -C
MU -C TOD
MU -N
MAXIMU
MINIMU
Interstate
TYPE OF
ALLOWE
Hotels, motels, and extended stay
P
P
P
P
lodging
D
REQUIRED
HEIGHT PER
NUMBER
Studios, including art, music,
S
dance, television and radio
P
P
P
P
broadcasting stations
Theaters
P
P
P
P
Office and Industrial
Medical and dental clinics
P
P
P
P
Offices
P
P
P
P.
Office- warehouse, no outdoor
C
C
C
NP
storage
WHEN THE
SIGN,,.'
Outdoor storage
NP
NP
NP
NP
Restricted light industrial
C
C
C
NP
Wholesale
C
C
C
C
Ancillary Uses
Parking facilities
P
P
P
P
Temporary Uses
Special events, including festivals
and farmers markets. FOR
P
P
P
P
FARMERS' MARKETS, SEE §
26 -635
Key: P = Permitted C = Conditional Use (see § 26 -1117) NP = Not Permitted
Section 8: Table 1 in Section 26 -709 of the Code is amended to include the following
sign types:
TABLE INSET:
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN RESIDENTIAL, AGRICULTURAL, AND PUBLIC FACILITIES ZONES
(R -1, R -1 A, R -16, RAC, R -2, R -2A, R -3, R -3A, A -1, A -2, PF)
MAXIMUM
MAXIMU
MINIMU
OTHER
TYPE OF
ALLOWE
PERMIT
SIZE AND
M
M
REQUIREMENT
SIGN
D
REQUIRED
HEIGHT PER
NUMBER
SETBAC
S
SIGN
K
13. Miscellaneous
MAY N07BE
Q.
NO LARGER
1 PER
ILLUMINATED:
FARMER
YES
NO
THAN 50
FARMER
;NONE
MAY gNLX.BE
ON "RISPCi4X
MARKET
SQUARE
FEET:
S'
MARKET
WHEN THE
SIGN,,.'
MARKET; I� IN
OPERATIbN
►
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN RESIDENTIAL, AGRICULTURAL, AND PUBLIC FACILITIES ZONES
(R -1, R -1A, R -1 B, R -1 C, R -2, R -2A, R -3, R -3A, A -1, A -2, PF)
MAXIMU
MAXIMUM
MAXIMU
MINIMU
OTHER
TYPE OF
ALLOWE
PERMIT
SIZE AND
M
M
TYPE OF
SIGN
D
REQUIRED
HEIGHT PER
NUMBER
SETBAC
REQUIREMENT
REQUIRED
HEIGHT
SIGN
SETBACK
K
S
PER
SEE § 26-635
SIGN
WHERE
PRODUCE
STANDIS A
,
HOME
OCCUPATION;
MAY NOT BE
THE SIGN
MUST MEET
ILLUMINATED'.
NO. FOR
RE QUIREMEN
MAY , ONLY BE
R.
TEMPORARY
TS FOR HOME
ON DISPLAY
PRODUC
FREESTANDI
=SGT
OCCUPATION
1 PER
DURING
E STAND
YES '
SIGNS,IN F.
STAND
5 FEET
MONTHS
SIGN
YES FOR
ALL OTHER
WHEN,THE
PERMANENT
PRODUCE
PRODUCE
WALL SIGNS.
STAND IS
STANDS MAY
OPERATIONAL
HAVE ONE
SIGN UP TO `6
SEE §26436
SQUARE FEET
SQUARE
AND
UP TO 5 FEET
INHE III GHT
MAXIMUM
SIzEbF 6
S.
URBAN
SQUARE FEET
MAY NOT BE
GARDEN
YES
YES
AND
1'
S<FEET
ILLUMINATEDd
SIGN
MAXIMUM
SEE § 26.-637
HEIGHT OF
FEET
Section 9: Table 1 in Section 26 -710 of the Code is amended to include the following
sign types:
TABLE INSET:
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL AND MIXED USE DISTRICTS
(NC, RC, C -1, C -2, 1)
MAXIMU
M SIZE
MAXIMUM
MINIMUM
OTHER
TYPE OF
ALLOWED
PERMIT
AND
SIGN
REQUIRED
HEIGHT
NUMBER
SETBACK
REQUIREMENTS
PER
SIGN
30
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL AND MIXED USE DISTRICTS
(NC, RC, C -1, C -2, 1)
MAXIMU
M SIZE
MAXIMUM
MINIMUM
OTHER
TYPE OF
ALLOWED
PERMIT
AND
SETBACK
REQUIREMENTS
SIGN
REQUIRED
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Section 10: Safety Clause The City Council hereby finds, determines, and declares
that this Ordinance is promulgated under the general police power of the City of Wheat
Ridge, that it is promulgated for the health, safety and welfare of the public and that this
Ordinance is necessary for the preservation of health and safety and for the protection
of public convenience and welfare. The City Council further determines that the
Ordinance bears a rational relation to the proper legislative object sought to be attained.
Section 11: Severability: Conflicting Ordinances Repealed If any section,
subsection or clause of the ordinance shall be deemed to be unconstitutional or
otherwise invalid, the validity of the remaining sections, subsections and clauses shall
31
not be affected thereby. All other ordinances or parts of the ordinances in conflict with
the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed.
Section 12: Effective Date This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen days after final
publication, as provided by Section 5.11 of the Charter.
INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of 8 to 0 on
this 9th day of May, 2011, ordered published with Public Hearing and consideration of
final passage set for Monday, May 23rd, 2011 at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers,
7500 West 29 Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado, and that it takes effect 15 days after
final publication.
READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by
a vote of to , this _ day of , 2011.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this day of .1 2011.
ATTEST:
Jerry DiTullio, Mayor
Michael Snow, City Clerk
Approved As To Form
Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney
First Publication: May 12, 2011
Second Publication:
Wheat Ridge Transcript
Effective Date:
32
AP
LiveWell
%I=Fw
April 29, 2011
City Council
City of Wheat Ridge
7500 W 29 Avenue
1'` floor
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Dear Wheat Ridge City Council:
LiveWell Wheat Ridge is a community movement funded by LiveWell Colorado working to
reduce and prevent obesity for better health outcomes. Emerging best practices show that we
positively impact food consumption choices by increasing access to healthy foods. To this end,
LiveWell Wheat Ridge is involved in a myriad of approaches to increase nutritional food
consumption in our community and to grow our markets in Wheat Ridge.
In the fall of 2010, LiveWell Wheat Ridge partnered with the Wheat Ridge Access to Fresh Fruit
and Vegetables Task Force, Jefferson Conservation District and CREA Results to administer the
Wheat Ridge Healthy Food Assessment. Modeled after similar healthy food assessments in the
country, this assessment surveyed over 200 respondents on questions related to access and
barriers to growing, purchasing and consuming fresh fruit and vegetables. Using an online and
paper survey in English and Spanish, and by partnering with older adults and bilingual and
bicultural outreach workers, we over - sampled diverse socioeconomic segments of our
community. In this report, we captured important information about ways to reduce barriers to
accessing fresh fruit and vegetables, increase growing opportunities, expand local markets, and
integrate local produce into our food systems.
Because we need to use a multifaceted systems approach to solving healthy food access issues
and grow our markets, we hope this report provides valuable information to the City Council, as
well as all sectors of our community, to support informed policy making, innovate our
programming and provide opportunities for economic growth in Wheat Ridge.
Sincerely,
Molly Hanson
LiveWell Wheat Ridge Coordinator
ATTACHMENT 2
LiveWell Wheat Ridge
(LWWR), a community initia-
tive funded by LiveWell Colo-
rado, advocates healthy eating
and active living (HEAL) poli-
cies and infrastructure im-
provements in Wheat Ridge.
LWWR is working with city
policymakers, staff and resi-
dents to incorporate plans for
increasing access to healthy
foods, particularly for lower in-
come and Latino residents of
Wheat Ridge.
In partnership with the Jeffer-
son Conservation District and
CREA Results, a community-
based outreach organization,
LWWR conducted a community
WHAT RESIDENT
REPORT
needs
2
a
g
assessment in the fall of
010 of access to fresh fruits
nd vegetables and locally
rown foods. A 25 -item sur-
v
i
g
s
a ey in English and Spanish
was administered online and
n hardcopy to Wheat Ridge
residents and nonresidents to
ather information on con-
umption patterns, attitudes
nd barriers to accessing fresh
foods. Over two hundred re-
spondents completed the sur-
vey. For the purposes of this
report, we have confined our
analysis to the 135 Wheat
Ridge residents who com-
pleted the survey.
3
Shopping
The vast majority (over 90 %) of respon-
dents report going to grocery stores to
get their fresh fruits and vegetables
regardless of the time of year and most
use their own cars to get there.
Almost half (47 %) of the respondents
get their produce at farmers' markets,
fruit and vegetable stands or gardens
during the summer. A far greater per-
centage of Whites (69 %) go to these lo-
cations compared to Latinos (20 %).
4 s:.
a
What to Eat
A majority (72 %) of respondents
report freshness as an important
aspect of deciding which fruits
and vegetables to eat, followed by
62% who report cost as impor-
tant, 47% who report healthiness
as important and 43% who report
taste as important.
SUPPORT FOR HEALTHY EATING IN WHEAT RIDGE
i
3
r dk�t�tte�f�t
AND FUTURE
OF WHEAT
Almost half (46 %) of the respondents go to the
Wheat Ridge Farmers' Market. Most (over
70 %) buy fruits and vegetables. A quarter buy
other food items, a quarter don't buy anything
and 5% buy flowers or plants. Sixty -nine per-
cent of Latinos, 45% of males and 32% of lower
income respondents who go to the Wheat Ridge
Farmers' Market do not buy anything com-
pared to only 9% of Whites who do not buy any-
thing.
Twenty -six percent of the respondents (35
people) report going outside of Wheat Ridge to
another farmers' market. Reasons include:
more convenient locations, better days of the
week, more convenient hours or better produce
selection at the other markets. A very small
percentage (3 %) report that they go to another
market because the produce at the market is
grown locally in that jurisdiction.
This fact sheet was designed and a -7
created by R £5EARC
Center for Research Strategies S - toa1: l
www.crsIlc.org . ,...•.• -�......__.
Fifty -four percent of respondents, or 73 peo-
ple, do not go to the Wheat Ridge Famers' Mar-
ket.
Why Don't People Go to the Farmers' Market?
(73 Respondents)
Other reasons_ for not going to the Wheat
Ridge Farmers' Market reported by only a few
respondents include: prefer going to grocery
store, only eat organic, grow my own, not inter-
ested, don't think about it, hard to walk
around or find parking, forget because market
open only one day a week, part of Community
Supported Agriculture.
Reasons for Visiting Farmers' Markets Outside of Wheat Ridge
s
Gardening at Home
Just over half of respondents (52 %) garden at home. Seventy percent grow vegetables, 54%
grow flowers, 49% grow spices and herbs and 37% grow fruit. Forty -eight percent, or 65 people,
do not grow at home. The most common reasons for not growing at home are shown in the
graph below. Additional reasons noted by a few respondents include: living in an apartment, no
desire, having moved or contending with squirrels. Of the 30 respondents who report not hav-
ing enough space to garden, only 5 are interested in renting space at the Wheat Ridge commu-
nity garden called the Happiness Garden.
Why Don't People Grow at Home?
(65 Respondents)
N
C
N
O
a
a
z
3%,
Dor't have Don': have Dent like to Not a Icwed Can't afford
soace time garden to plant to plant
Locally Grown Foods
Wheat Ridge residents are interested
in having access to locally grown foods.
Respondents report that they think it is
important for markets to carry locally
grown foods, that they would be more
likely to go to a restaurant if it served
locally grown food, that they would be
interested in buying produce from a local
farmer and that they would consider
joining a local food co -op grocery store
that sells local produce.
Thirty -one percent report they want
more information about buying from a
local farmer. Twenty -four percent want
more information about food co -ops.
k 3
Locally Grown Foods
w
100%
9
C L
CL d 50% --
w "c
z 0%
Y
3
0 Important for Wheat Ridge food markets to carry locally grown produce
IN More likely to go to a Wheat Ridge restaurant using locally grown food
■ Willing to pay more for locally grown foods
st Interested in buying produce from a local farmer and having it delivered
to their homes
® Want to be part of a food co -op grocery store to access more locally
grown products
Getting Involved
Wheat Ridge residents want to get in-
volved and they want more information.
Almost half (46 %) of the respondents re-
port they are interested in coming to a
community event that raises awareness
of the importance of locally grown pro-
duce. A quarter (25 %) report they would
Like to join the Fresh Fruits and Vegeta-
bles Task Force. Only 3 respondents re-
port they had ever called the City of
Wheat Ridge about growing or selling
fruits and vegetables, farming, compost-
ing or other gardening questions.
Respondents also report they would like more in-
formation about urban agriculture.
Message to Policymakers
Most residents buy their produce at grocery stores, but almost 50% also buy at farmers' markets.
Should the city encourage more grocery and produce stores to locate in Wheat Ridge?
Should the city partner to create additional farmers' markets, perhaps on a weekend day, to en-
courage greater participation?
Almost 75% of the respondent group rates freshness of produce as an important aspect of considering what fruits
and vegetables to buy. Two- thirds are sensitive to cost.
What can be done to ensure freshness of produce?
How can we ensure produce is affordable?
Not quite half of the respondent group patronizes the Wheat Ridge Famers' Market. When asked why they don't
go, reasons include cost, inconvenient time, not having transportation and not knowing where the market is.
How do we ensure produce is affordable at the Wheat Ridge Farmers' Market?
How do we do a better job of marketing the Wheat Ridge Farmers' Market?
Half of the respondents grow gardens at home. Half do not. Individuals surveyed don't have space or time to
grow at home. Additionally, those surveyed did not want to rent space at the Wheat Ridge community garden.
Should the city use resources, such as city -owned land or funding, to help create new community
gardens?
How do we support home gardening in Wheat Ridge?
Residents want locally grown foods to be available, not only to prepare and consume at home, but to eat at local
restaurants.
How can more locally grown produce by available in Wheat Ridge?
Are there policies or incentives that the city could provide to encourage restaurants to use local
produce?
For more information, please contact Molly Hanson, LiveWell Wheat Ridge Coordinator, at
mhanson@jeffco.us.
Funding for this report is provided by LiveWell Colorado
City of
°( C Wheat�idge
OMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Memorandum
TO: The Mayor and City Council
THROUGH: Ken Johnstone, Community Development Director
FROM: Sarah Showalter, Planner II
DATE: Mary 12, 2011
SUBJECT: Site Plan Review Fees for Urban Gardens Accessory to a Single- or Two -
Family Home
The urban agriculture ordinance (Council Bill 17 -2011) allows urban gardens on residential lots where the
primary use is a single- or two - family home, but requires completion of the Site Plan Review Process.
This additional review is proposed due to concerns about high intensity of use in residential areas and
potential negative impacts, such as traffic, that an urban garden use might generate. The intent is that
formally.managed gardens, typically with an exchange of money through a lease or other mechanism, on
residential lots would require additional review. Informal yard - sharing between neighbors would not
qualify as an urban garden and thus a Site Plan submittal to the City would not be required for such
activities.
The Site Plan Review Process was recommended by staff over the Special Use Permit (SUP) process
since it is a quicker review and has lower fees. The site plan review will entail review of a detailed site
plan by staff, and may include a referral to utility districts where appropriate. The typical fee for a site
plan review is $200 plus $200 per acre. There is also a $200 fee for the pre - application meeting prior to
application.
Based on input from City Council, staff recommends a significantly reduced fee for urban gardens going
through the site plan review. Initially, staff and suggested a flat $200 fee be adopted administratively.
Based on City Council's initial reaction to that fee and subsequent discussions with Mayor DiTullio, staff
is recommending a flat $50, regardless of the size of the site. This $50 would include the pre - application
meeting, which is useful to the applicant since they are informed of the review process and the potential
issues that staff will look for in their review. The $50 is twice the cost of the typical $25 business license
review fee, which would be required to operate a business (such as selling produce) from your home. The
additional cost will help cover the time that staff will spend reviewing the site plan for the urban garden
and addressing any potential impacts on neighboring properties.
Because the site plan review would not apply to home gardens or yard sharing on residential lots, staff
does not anticipate receiving many of these applications per year. The reduced fee supports policy
direction from both Planning Commission and City Council to be encouraging of urban agricultural uses.
Attachment 3
` 11 4'
City of
PrWheatPudge
PLANNING COMMISSION
Minutes of Meeting
April 21, 2011
1. CALL THE MEETING TO ORDER
The meeting was called to order by Chair BUCKNAM at 7:00 p.m. in the City
Council Chambers of the Municipal Building, 7500 West 29' Avenue, Wheat
Ridge, Colorado.
2. ROLL CALL OF MEMBERS
Commission Members Present: Anne Brinkman
Alan Bucknam
Marc Dietrick
Tracy Guildner
Dick Matthews
Scott Ohm
George Pond
Steve Timms
Staff Members Present: Ken Johnstone, Community
Development Director
Sarah Showalter, Planner II
Kathy Field, Administrative Assistant
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE
4. APPROVE THE ORDER OF THE AGENDA
It was moved by Commissioner MATTHEWS and seconded by
Commissioner OHM to approve the order of the agenda as printed. The
motion carried 8 -0.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES — April 7, 2011
It was moved by Commissioner MATTHEWS and seconded by
Commissioner OHM to approve the minutes of April 7, 2011 as presented.
The motion carried 5 -0 with Commissioners TIMMS, DIETRICK and
BRINKMAN abstaining.
6. PUBLIC FORUM (This is the time for any person to speak on any subject
not appearing on the agenda. Public comments may be limited to 3 minutes)
Attachment 4 -
Planning Commission Minutes 1 April 21, 2011
No members of the public wished to speak at this time.
7. PUBLIC HEARING
A. Case No. ZOA- 11 -02: An ordinance amending Chapter 26 concerning
Urban Agriculture.
The case was presented by Sarah Showalter. She entered all pertinent documents
into the record and advised the Commission there was jurisdiction to hear the
case. She reviewed the staff report and digital presentation.
Commissioner BRINKMAN commented that in the hot summer months, many
people prefer to start gardening around 5:00 a.m. to escape the heat.
Commissioner BUCKNAM asked about parking requirements. Ms. Showalter
stated that no parking ratios are set forth. Code enforcement will manage any
complaints received from neighbors regarding temporary parking.
Chair BUCKNAM opened the public hearing.
Ted Heyd
917 South Cole Drive, Lakewood
Mr. Heyd is a member of Access to Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Task Force. He
spoke in support of the ordinance. Urban agriculture is part of a national trend.
He expressed concern about the special use fee of $300 per acre for property
owners who want to start a neighborhood or community garden on the same
property as a single- or two - family home.
Amanda Weaver
11100 W. 38" Ave.
Ms. Weaver is also a member of the Task Force. She spoke in favor of the
ordinance but asked that the special use fee be revisited. She expressed concern
that the fees would be cost prohibitive in attempting to bring urban agriculture to
her 13 acres that are zoned R -3.
Tim Tindle
4300 Reed St.
Mr. Tindle is associated with the Task Force and spoke in favor of the ordinance.
He commented that Wheat Ridge could be on the leading edge of the urban
agriculture and food movement. He expressed concern about the special use fee.
He has started a business with Amanda Weaver called The City Mouse Garden
which will involve multi -plot gardening where they would garden a quarter of an
acre but also sell produce from other gardens. He expressed concern about the
single family limitation that could limit selling produce from the owner's garden.
Planning Commission Minutes 2 April 21, 2011
Ms. Showalter commented that they are trying to distinguish urban gardening
from "yard sharing" in that there is a person or group formally managing the
garden. The ordinance could be amended if these types of issues arise.
Andrew Horn
7175 W. 42 Ave.
Mr. Horn asked the price of a home occupation license. Mr. Johnstone replied
that the fee is $25 annually.
Tim Sabus
Mr. Sabus spoke in favor of the ordinance that could be a boon for Wheat Ridge
and set an example for other municipalities. He expressed concern that a 6 square
foot sign advertising a produce stand is too small. He suggested that square
footage for accessory structures be the same size for commercial and residential
zones. He stated that he was in favor of hoop houses for growing fruits and
vegetables.
In response to a question from Commissioner POND, Ms. Showalter stated that in
looking at similar ordinances from other cities, there were none that differentiated
between yard sharing and urban gardens. She commented that clarifying
language could be considered.
In response to concern expressed by Commissioner POND regarding special use
permit fees for urban gardens, Mr. Johnstone explained that administrative fees
are set by the Community Development Director. Amendments to those fees
must be considered by City Council.
Commissioner OHM expressed concern that a permit could be required for a
home garden. Ms. Showalter stated that this was not the intent of the ordinance
and it may be necessary to tweak the language. The special use permit would not
be required for private home gardens.
Commissioner OHM suggested that special use fees should be reduced for small
plots.
It was moved by Commissioner BRINKMAN and seconded by
Commissioner GUILDNER to recommend approval of the proposed
ordinance amending Chapter 26 to support urban agricultural uses and
activities, with the following conditions:
1. Urban gardens are allowed as a special use on residentially -zoned lots
where the primary use is a single or two- family home.
The motion carried 8 -0.
Planning Commission Minutes 3 April 21, 2011
It was moved by Commissioner POND and seconded by Commissioner
OHM to amend the definition of urban garden to read as follows: An area of
land formally managed, organized and maintained by an individual or group of
individuals to grow and harvest food crops and/or non-food ornamental crops,
such as flowers. Urban gardens may be divided into separate plots for
cultivation by one or more individuals or may be maintained and cultivated
collectively. Urban garden examples include community gardens where crops
are consumed or donated, market gardens where crops are sold for profit, and
community - supported agriculture (CSA), where crops are sold or donated for
shareholder consumption.
The motion carried 8 -0.
It was moved by Commissioner POND and seconded by Commissioner
OHM to recommend that staff look at substantially reducing the fees for
Special Use Permits related to urban gardens on residentially -zoned lots
where the primary use is a single or two- family home with the intent to
encourage urban agriculture moving forward.
Commissioner TIMMS offered a friendly amendment that when a decision is
made after it goes to Council to report results back to Planning Commission.
The amendment was accepted by Commissioner MATTHEWS.
The amended motion passed 8 -0.
8. STUDY SESSIONS (The regular meeting was adjourned to study session at 8:25
P.M.)
A. Potential Rezoning of 11100 W. 38` Ave.
Sarah Showalter reviewed the staff report for this item. The owner of this
property would like to add a variety of uses to the site. The front of the 12 -acre
property is zoned R -3 and the back part is zoned R -1. There has been a small
farm component on this site since the original farm house was built in 1922. A
conservation easement was placed on this land in the 1990's to preserve the
agricultural use of the site. The owner is proposing a CSA or market garden for
the property as well as the ability to have a commercial kitchen/classroom space
in one of the buildings behind the existing farm house. The property owner lives
in the farm house which would allow use as a home occupation. Some
possibilities include allowing the uses under an SUP; the property could be
rezoned to A -1; or a planned development could be used.
Amanda Weaver
11100 W. 38� Ave.
Ms. Weaver, who owns the property with Louise Turner, stated that she is a
geographer specializing in urban agriculture and teaches at the University of
Planning Commission Minutes 4 April 21, 2011
Colorado at Denver. Because of the conservation easement placed in perpetuity
on the land, she is prohibited from building another dwelling on the property.
However, buildings related to agriculture could be constructed. She would like
to have a commercial kitchen to allow her to make and package cheese that she
could sell. She would also like to provide educational opportunities to the public
where people could observe the agricultural process and attend various classes.
She commented that A -1 zoning might not accommodate all of this.
There was discussion about home occupation requirements and the advantages of
planned development for the property.
B. 38 th Avenue Corridor Plan
Ms. Showalter, Commissioner BRINKMAN and Commissioner OHM presented
updates on the 38 Avenue Corridor Task Force meeting.
9. ADJOURNMENT
It was moved by Commissioner POND and seconded by Commissioner
BRINKMAN to adjourn the meeting at 9:17 p.m. The motion carried 8 -0.
Alan Bucknam, Chair Ann Lazzeri, Secretary
Planning Commission Minutes 5 April 21, 2011
. sAr
City of
Wheat
ITEM NO: 5.
DATE: May 9, 2011
�� �
19 TITLE:
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
COUNCIL BILL NO. 17 -2011 - AN ORDINANCE
AMENDING CHAPTER 26 TO SUPPORT URBAN
AGRICULTURAL USES AND ACTIVITIES
❑
PUBLIC HEARING
®
ORDINANCES FOR 1 READING (05/09/2011)
❑
BIDS/MOTIONS
❑
ORDINANCES FOR 2� READING (05/23/2011)
❑
RESOLUTIONS
QUASI - JUDICIAL: ❑ YES ® NO
'
-�di�— I I ✓ I 011-..-. , . jpflN
Community DevMpmen ?ieector City Manager
ISSUE:
In the past year, the City has witnessed an increased interest in the topic of urban agriculture.
Planning Division staff has received several inquiries related to urban agriculture, such as
whether community gardens are allowed on vacant lots or backyards and whether greenhouses
would be allowed on the same lot as a business or restaurant. For most of these topics, the
current zoning code contains little to no regulations.
Due to the large interest in growing and selling produce in the City, the proposed ordinance
would amend Chapter 26 to clarify what urban agriculture uses are allowed in various zone
districts. The proposed ordinance establishes where three main uses — urban gardens, farmers'
markets, and produce stands — are allowed and includes minimal regulations for each use.
PRIOR ACTION:
A presentation on urban agriculture was given to City Council at a Study Session in December,
2010. At that time, Council gave staff direction to proceed with zoning code amendments that
would clarify where urban agriculture uses were allowed. Council recommended a permissive
approach that would allow uses such as produce stands and community gardens in all zone
districts. Staff gave an update on the proposed amendments to Council at a Study Session on
March 7, 2011.
ZOA -11 -02
Council Action Form
May 9, 2011
Page 2
Planning Commission discussed the proposed code amendments with staff at a Study Session in
January, 2011. At a Public Hearing on April 21, 2011 Planning Commission voted to approve the
ordinance with the condition that urban gardens be allowed as a special use (rather than not
permitted at all) on residentially -zoned lots where the primary use is a single- or two- family
home. Planning Commission also recommended a modification to the definition of "urban
garden." Both of these changes have been incorporated into the ordinance. Planning Commission
also passed a motion recommending that staff consider a substantially reduced special use permit
(SUP) fee for urban gardens that are accessory to a single- or two- family home, with the intent to
encourage urban agriculture in the City and to not create a review process that will be cost -
prohibitive. This recommendation was based on testimony at the Public Hearing from some
residents who expressed concern that the typical SUP fee of $300 plus an additional $300 per
acre is high and could prohibit some residents from applying for urban gardens on their
residential property. Please see pages 4 -5 for further discussion of this topic.
Meeting notes from the April 21" Planning Commission Public Hearing will be included with the
ordinance on second reading.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
The proposed ordinance is not anticipated to have a direct financial impact on the City.
BACKGROUND:
In some communities, promoting urban agriculture dates as far back as the 1960s and 1970s,
when community gardens first started to form in cities like New York City and Philadelphia. In
the past 10 years, however, the trend to produce and sell local food in urban communities has
become ever more prevalent. Urban and suburban communities are drawn to urban agriculture
for a variety of reasons, including:
• Economic and community development
• Environmental sustainability
• Connecting urban dwellers to fresh, healthy food
In Wheat Ridge, a community founded on an agricultural past; there is a renewed interest in how
agriculture can be integrated into a largely built -out City. Many residents already have home
gardens and there is an existing community garden on City-owned land, called Happiness
Gardens. However, there is demonstrated interest by residents, schools, and business to expand
urban agricultural uses — including community gardens, yard sharing, community- supported
agriculture (CSA), and roadside produce stands. The desire for Wheat Ridge residents to access
shared gardens, especially if they do not have room on their private lot, is demonstrated by the
Healthy Food Assessment completed by LiveWell Wheat Ridge in 2010 (see results of this
assessment in Attachment 2).
The intent of the attached ordinance is to clarify where uses related to growing and selling
produce are allowed in the City. Chapter 26 already contains fairly flexible provisions that allow
residential homeowners to keep animals on their property as well as grow and sell produce from
their home through a home occupation license. The primary amendments in the ordinance relate
Council Action Form
May 9, 2011
Page 3
to urban gardens, farmers markets, and produce stands. Based on policy direction received from
City Council at a Study Session in December 2010 and from Planning Commission at a Study
Session in January 2011, the approach is to be quite permissive, allowing these uses in all zone
districts.
Process
Staff started researching zoning regulations related to urban agriculture one year ago. There is a
limited number of jurisdictions in the Denver metro area that have updated their codes to address
urban agriculture; Denver has already passed such changes and Lakewood is currently in the
process of updating their code. Thus the majority of staff's research entailed communities
throughout the country — including Seattle, Cleveland, Milwaukee, and Kansas City — that have
been recognized for adopting zoning codes that support urban agricultural activities.
In drafting the code amendments, Planning staff sought input from relevant City departments and
divisions, including code enforcement officers, the Building Division, and the Parks Department.
Staff also utilized real -life inquiries from community members and residents to test the proposed
code. A group of Wheat Ridge residents that are part of the Access to Fresh Fruits and
Vegetables (AFFV) task force also reviewed and commented on a draft of the ordinance,
providing very helpful feedback to staff. The proposed ordinance also reflects input received
from Study Sessions with City Council on December 6, 2010 and March 7, 2011, as well as a
Study Session with Planning Commission on January 6, 2011.
Overview of Proposed Ordinance
Below please find a summary of the amendments contained in the proposed ordinance.
1. Landscape Definition
The definition of landscaping in Section 26 -502 is amended to include vegetable plants,
to clarify that areas planted as a garden shall qualify as landscaped area.
2. Home Occupation Regulations
The regulations pertaining to home occupations (Section 26 -513) are revised to clarify
that the sales of produce or other agricultural products made on -site are allowed to occur
outdoors (as opposed to all other home occupations, which must occur indoors). This
amendment is intended to allow homeowners to establish temporary produce stands on
their property as a home occupation.
3. Accessory Building Regulations
The definition of an accessory building has been modified to clarify that urban garden
uses may have an accessory structure (such as a shed or greenhouse) even if there is not a
primary structure on the lot.
Council Action Form
May 9, 2011
Page 4
4. Urban Gardens
Urban gardens are defined as an area of land formally managed, organized and
maintained by an individual or group of individuals to grow and harvest food crops
and/or non -food ornamental crops, such as flowers. Urban gardens may include
community gardens (typically a non - profit model in which plots are leased for a minimal
cost to growers and food is consumed or donated), market gardens (where food grown on
site is sold for a profit), and community- supported agriculture, or CSA, where people
purchase shares of produce from a garden or farm.
In the proposed ordinance, urban gardens are allowed in all zone districts. However, prior
to establishing such a use, an applicant must first submit to the Community Development
Department a packet that includes a site plan and operational information (including
hours of operation and proposed parking areas) for review. The ordinance also establishes
some basic regulations for urban garden uses, including:
• Signage: each garden would be allowed one non - illuminated sign up to 6 square
feet in size and 5 feet in height
• Landscape buffer: a minimum 5 -foot planted area is required wherever an urban
garden abuts a property with a residential use
• Parking: there is no specific requirement for off - street parking. However, if there
is not adequate parking on adjacent streets, then the Community Development
Department may require some on -site parking
• Hours of operation: in residential zone districts, hours of operation are restricted
to 7 am to sunset (and any exterior lighting must be turned off at this time)
• Structures: structures such as sheds and greenhouses are allowed, but they would
need to follow the limits on size and height, as well as setbacks, for accessory
structures in the property's underlying zone district.
Per Planning Commission's recommendation, the attached ordinance lists urban gardens
on residential lots where accessory to a single- or two - family home as a special use. Due
to concerns about high intensity of use in residential areas and potential negative impacts,
such as traffic, staff recommended that urban gardens accessory to low- density residential
uses should be subject to an additional review process. The intent is that formally
managed gardens, typically with an exchange of money through a lease or other
mechanism, on residential lots would require additional review. At the Public Hearing on
April 21, staff recommended the special use permit (SUP) process to Planning
Commission. Planning Commission agreed that an additional review was reasonable.
However they had significant concern about the cost of an SUP. Thus they recommended
that staff examine substantially reduced SUP fees for urban gardens accessory to homes
as a way to encourage this type of use.
Staff reviewed the current SUP process and fee structure, which includes costs for a pre -
application meeting and neighborhood meeting. The SUP base fee is $300 plus $300 per
acre. With the meeting and application fees, an application for an urban garden on a
residential lot sized one acre would cost $900. In addition to the large cost, the SUP
Council Action Form
May 9, 2011
Page 5
process can take 2 -3 months and contains the potential for a public hearing before City
Council (which requires additional public noticing fees). In an effort to follow policy
direction from both City Council and Planning Commission to encourage urban garden
uses through a permissive zoning approach, staff now proposes an alternative review
process that would be less expensive and less timely than an SUP. Staff recommends
requiring urban gardens accessory to a single- or two - family home to follow the Site Plan
Review Process in Section 26 -111. This is an administrative process that requires
submittal of a detailed site plan that staff could review and, if necessary, put on referral to
other City departments or utility districts for review. This additional review would allow
staff to address issues such as parking and buffering adjacent to neighboring residential
properties.
Staff feels that the site plan review process is a better match than the SUP process for
urban gardens on residential properties. The typical fee for a site plan review is $200
plus $200 per acre. There is also a $200 fee for the pre - application meeting prior to
application. Staff is recommending that, for urban garden uses, the fee would be a flat
$200, regardless of the size of the site. This $200 would include the pre - application
meeting, which is useful to the applicant since they are informed of the review process
and the potential issues that staff will look for in their review. The proposed $200 fee is
comparable to the $200 fee that is required of homeowners applying for a zoning
variance. The proposal to follow the site plan review process is reflected in the
recommended motion below.
5. Farmers' Markets
The proposed ordinance would allow farmers' markets in any zone district as a primary
or accessory use. Markets would not be allowed as an accessory use on residential
properties with a single - or two - family home as the primary use. The proposed language
requires a submittal with parking and operational info to Community Development. This
submittal may be part of the typical business license review process since all markets are
required to obtain a business license. Under the proposed ordinance, farmer's markets
would be subject to the following regulations:
• Signage: each market is permitted one temporary sign or banner up to 50 square
feet in size. The sign may only be up when the market is in operation.
• Hours of operation: in residential zone districts, hours of operation are restricted
to lam to sunset.
• Parking: there are not specific off - street parking requirements. However, a
proposed market must provide parking information to Community Development
so it is clear that there is adequate parking provided, whether it be on -site, on an
adjacent site, or on nearby streets.
6. Produce Stands
The current zoning code allows for seasonal produce stands in Agricultural zone districts
only. The proposed amendments would allow temporary stands, for up to 6 months per
year, in any zone district. This means that homeowners with a home occupation could set
Council Action Form
May 9, 2011
Page 6
up a stand, as could any business or urban garden in the City. Produce stands do not
require a submittal to Community Development, but staff would be able to review each
stand as part of the business license review process. Produce stands would be subject to
the following regulations:
• Products sold: produce or agricultural products. Products sold at a stand must
have been primarily grown, raised, or produced on the property where the stand is
located.
• Seasonal operations: stands may be up for a maximum of 6 months each year
and must be removed/stored when not in use.
• Hours of operation: in residential zone districts, hours of operation are restricted
to lam to sunset.
• Parking: temporary off - street parking should be provided if there is not adequate
on- street parking nearby
• Signage: stands that are home occupations would have to meet home occupation
regulations, which allow up to 2 square feet of signage (plus additional square
footage for informational signs for parking, etc). All other stands would be
allowed one sign up to 6 square feet in size and 5 feet tall.
RECOMMENDATIONS:
Staff recommends approval of the ordinance since it advances the City's goals, established in
Envision Wheat Ridge, to support urban agriculture and access to local food. Specifically, under
policy Sustainable Future 4.2, Envision Wheat Ridge recommends that the City revise its
regulations to allow farmers' market, produce stands, and urban agriculture. The proposed
ordinance would fulfill this strategy and help the City to implement its comprehensive plan.
Adoption of the proposed ordinance will allow a variety of urban agricultural uses in Wheat
Ridge and enable the community to pursue uses and activities, such as community gardens and
farmers' markets, which will positively impact health, the environment, and community
development.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
"I move to approve Council Bill No. 17 -2011 an ordinance amending Chapter 26 to
support urban agricultural uses and activities, order it published, public hearing set for
Monday, May 23rd at 7:00 p.m. in City Council Chambers, and that it take effect 15 days
after final publication, with the following amendment:
• That urban gardens on residentially -zoned lots where the primary use is a single -
or two - family home be subject to the Site Plan Review Process, rather than the
Special Use Permit Process."
Or,
"I move to postpone indefinitely Council Bill No. 17 -2011 an ordinance amending
Chapter 26 to support urban agricultural uses and activities for the following reason(s)
Council Action Form
May 9, 2011
Page 7
REPORT PREPARED BY:
Sarah Showalter, Planner II
Ken Johnstone, Community Development Director
ATTACIE%IENTS:
1. Council Bill No. 17 -2011
2. Summary of Results from LiveWell Wheat Ridge Health Foods Assessment
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
COUNCIL BILL NO. 17
ORDINANCE NO.
Series 2011
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 26 TO SUPPORT
URBAN AGRICULTURAL USES AND ACTIVITIES
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge is authorized by the
Home Rule Charter and the Colorado Constitution and statutes to enact and enforce
ordinances for the preservation of the public health, safety and welfare; and
WHEREAS, the City's Comprehensive Plan, Envision Wheat Ridge, establishes
that the City will work to promote access to healthy foods and support urban agriculture
according to Policy SF 4.2 Accessible Healthy Foods; and
WHEREAS, said plan includes the recommendation to "revise regulations to
allow farmers' markets, produce stands and urban agriculture" within the City; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge wishes to amend the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws (the "Code ") to accomplish these goals.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1: Section 26 -123, entitled "Definitions," is amended to review the definition of
"Building, accessory," to read:
Building, accessory. A subordinate building or portion of a main building the use of
which is incidental to that of the main building OIL USE on the same lot. These
accessory buildings shall include, but are not limited to, private storage sheds, detached
garages, detached carports, membrane structures that meet current building code
requirements, chicken coops, gazebos greenhouses and barns. AN UR0AINOARD, N
USE MAY SU'� IS NQ�, REQUIREDkTQ HAVE'A,MAINBUILDING„ EXCEPT FOR
URBAN GARDEN USES, M►;AN accessory building must be clearly subordinate to a
main use BALDING, located on the same lot AND ,AegaNy an accessory structure
shall not be located on a vacant lot devoid of a main building.
Section 2: Section 26 -123 of the Code is amended to include the following new
definitions in appropriate alphabetical order:
1
Attachment 1
Section 3: The Table of Uses in Section 26 -204 of the Code are amended to read:
TABLE INSET:
Table of Uses -- Residential
Uses
Notes
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
1
1A
18
1C
2
2A
3
3A
One - family
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
dwelling
Two - family
P
P
P
P
dwelling
Three - family
P
P
P
dwelling
Four - family
P
P
P
dwelling
2
Uses
Notes
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
1
1A
18
IC
2
2A
3
3A
Multifamily
P
P
dwelling
Bed and breakfast
See § 26 -608
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
Church, parish
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
house
Day care home,
S
S
S
S
S
S
P
P
large
Electric
transmission
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
substation
14'61 PERMiTTt6A&AN
ACCESSORY USE`bN
PROPERTIES WHERE
THE PRIMARY tJSE IS A
FARME'
RS
SINGLE = OR TWO,FAM ILY
MARKETS
77
HOME SUBMITTAL TQ
P
P
P
P,
P
P
P
P
OVA
DEVELQPME,NT
DEPARTMENT
REQUIRED SEA, § 26 =635
Foster care home
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Governmental and
quasi -
governmental
No outside storage
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
buildings, fire
stations and public
utility buildings
Governmental and
quasi -
governmental
Outside storage
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
buildings, fire
stations and public
utility buildings
Parking of
automobiles of
Shall be allowed only on lots
clients, patients or
containing nonresidential or
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
patrons of adjacent
quasi- public uses, subject to
commercial or
§ 26-501 CA
Uses
Notes
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
1
1A
18
1C
2
2A
3
3A
nonresidential
uses
Parking of
automobiles of
Shall be allowed on lots
clients, patients or
adjacent to business only if
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
patrons of adjacent
the business owner also
commercial uses
owns the adjacent lot
Includes: noncommercial
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Parks
playgrounds or other public
recreation uses
SEE 26-636 H' kE
LOCATED ON ALOT
WITHrA,1RESIDENDAL
PRODUCE
pWELLING UNIT; MUST
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
R
STANDS
MEEt:HOME
OCCUPATION.
REGULATIONS PER' §`26
G13
Public or private
golf courses,
Restaurants, lounges and
country clubs or
bars permitted as accessory
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
clubs operated for
to a public or private golf
the benefit of
members only and
course
not for gain
Public and private
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
schools, colleges
and universities.
Residential group
See § 26 -612
S
S
S
S
S
S IS
S
home for children
Residential group
homes, nursing
homes, and
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
congregate care
See § 26 -612
facilities for 8 or
fewer elderly
persons
Residential group
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
homes, nursing
See § 26 -612
homes, or
Uses Notes R- R- R- R- R- R- R- R-
1 1A 18 1C 2 2A 3 3A
congregate care
facility for 9 or
more elderly
persons
URBAN
GARDENS
Wind powered
electric generators I Not in excess of 35 feet
UMUM
S IS IS IS IS IS IS IS
TABLE INSET:
Accessory Uses For
Notes
Residential Districts
Bee keeping
See § 26 -603 and 607
Ancillary uses operating
within a church's primary
e.g.: Day care centers, scout meetings
structure
Home occupations,
INCLUDINGPRODUC`E
See § 26-613 AND § 26;636 FOR PRODUCEO ANP$
STANDS
See § 26 -123; 605 (excludes keeping of swine); 606.
Accessory buildings shall not be located on a vacant lot
Accessory buildings
devoid of any primary or main building, EXCEPT FOR
URBI#N ° GARDEN USES WHICH MAY OR MAY_NOT
HAVE A.P)t(IyIARY OR MAIN BUILDING''
NOT PERMITTED AS pN ACCESSORY USE ON
FARMERS'MARK,EI S
PROPERTIES WHERE,THE P , MARY $E IS A
SINC�WORaT1Al0FA`iVIILY ME, SEE`t 635
Household pets, limited to no
more than 3 dogs and 4
Plus their unweaned offspring
cats
+7
Accessory Uses For
Notes
Residential Districts
2
Private swimming pools and
Bed - and - breakfast
tennis courts and other
See § 26 -603
recreational facilities
Public and private
26 -608
communications towers,
For satellite earth receiving stations, see § 26 -616 and §
television or radio antennas
26 -617
Public utility lines and poles,
S
irrigation channels, storm
drainage and water supply
facilities
S
Rooming and /or boarding of
On a contract basis for not less than 7 days
not more than 2 persons
S
S
Ott, IAL USE PERMIT REOUIRItIJ0141.0 ROPERTIES
URBAN GARDENS
WHERE THE PRIMARY USE IS A SINGLE- OR TWO-
S
FAMILY HOME:' SEE § 26 -637
Water towers or
Not in excess of 35 feet
aboveground reservoirs
S
TABLE INSET:
Table of Uses -- Agricultural and Public Facilities
Uses
Notes
2
PF
Bed - and - breakfast
Subject to requirements set forth in §
S
S
26 -608
Cemeteries and crematories
Not including funeral homes
S
S
Churches parish houses
S
S
Day care home, large
S
S
Day care center, large
S
S
Day care center, small
S
S
M
Uses
Notes
2
PF
Provided that outside runs which are
Dog kennels, catteries,
adjacent to residentially zoned or
S
S
veterinary hospitals
used property are no closer than 25
feet to a side or rear lot line
Electric transmission
S
S
substations
PROHIBITED in A -1: The raising or
General farming and raising or
keeping of swine
INCLUDED in A -2: The keeping of
keeping of stock, bee keeping,
swine and /or potbellied pigs, Sus
P
P
poultry or small animals such as
Scrofa Vittatus, except such animals
rabbits or chinchillas
shall not be fed garbage
SUBMITTAL TO COMMUNITY
FARMERS'- MARKETS
DEVELOPMENT IMPARTMENT
RE(.1UIREM SEE, : §y26 =63
Foster care home
P
P
Fish hatcheries
P
P
Governmental and quasi-
No outside storage
governmental buildings, fire
P
P
P
stations and public utility
buildings
Governmental and quasi -
governmental buildings, fire
Outside storage
S
S
P
stations and public utility
buildings
Greenhouses and landscape
nurseries, including both
See § 26 -624
P
P
wholesale and retail sales of
related products
One - family dwelling
P
P
Parks
Includes noncommercial playgrounds
P
P
P
A
Uses
Notes
2
PF
or other public recreation uses
SEE;§ 26x636 WHERE LOCATED
ON °A FT_ WITH A RESIQENTIAL
PRODUCE STANDS
DWEL' LING UNIT, MUST MEET
P
P
P_
H00, 6'CC IPATIOTII
REGULATIONS PER =§ 26 6'93:
Public and private schools,
In public facility district only public
S
S
P
colleges, and universities
schools
Public or private golf courses,
Not including a private club which
country clubs or clubs operated
S
S
provides service customarily carried
for the benefit of members only
on as a business
and not for gain
Race track, fair grounds,
S
S
amusement resorts, heliports,
radio towers and stations
Residential group homes for 8
P
P
See § 26 -612
or fewer elderly persons
Residential group or nursing
homes, or congregate care
S
See § 26 -612
facilities for 9 or more elderly
persons
Residential group homes for
S
See § 26 -612
children
Provided that any structure housing
animals which is adjacent to a
Riding academies and public
P
P
residentially zoned or used property
stables
shall be no closer than 25 feet to a
side or rear lot line
F r • s" s `'.
1"—
SUBJVIITTAL 70 COMM�1NlTY
.�
URBAN GARDENS
B _ r
D YELQPMEN DEPdRTMENl
- V E
P
P
P
6
REQII�REQ,SEE=>�
Wind- powered electric
S
S
Uses
Notes
A
2
PF
Meeting the definition and standards in § 26-
PRODUCE;STANQS
613 AND, FOR PRODUCE STANDS, §.26-
636
generators not in excess of 35
FARMERS MARKETS
SEE'§ 26 635
Household pets, limited to no more than
feet.
3 dogs and 4 cats
Parking of equipment, implements,
TABLE INSET:
Agricultural and Public Facilities
Notes
Districts Accessory Uses
Home occupations, INCLUDING
Meeting the definition and standards in § 26-
PRODUCE;STANQS
613 AND, FOR PRODUCE STANDS, §.26-
636
Detached private garage or carport
FARMERS MARKETS
SEE'§ 26 635
Household pets, limited to no more than
plus their unweaned offspring
3 dogs and 4 cats
Parking of equipment, implements,
machinery and /or large trucks, trailers
and semi - tractor trailers, when used in
support of agricultural and public
maintenance operations
Private storage sheds, barns, animal
shelters or outbuildings
Private swimming pools and tennis
See § 26 -603 for related requirements
courts
Public utility lines and poles, irrigation
Includes other similar facilities such as
channels, storm drainage and water
electric transmission lines and poles
supply facilities
Includes other similar communications
Public and private communications
receiving or sending devices. None may
towers, television or radio antennas
exceed 35 feet in height, whether ground or
structurally mounted. For satellite earth
receiving stations, see § 26 -616 and 26 -617
Rooming and /or boarding for not more
On a contract basis for not less than 7 days
than 2 persons
URBAN,GARDENS
SEE,§ 26-63T
Water towers or above ground
Not in excess of 35 feet
reservoirs
TABLE INSET:
Table of Uses -- Commercial and Industrial Districts
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
Adult entertainment
In accordance with Wheat
P
P
P
establishments
Ridge Code of Laws, Chapter
3
Ambulance services
P
P
P
P
Amusement parks
S
P
P
Animal veterinary hospitals
With outside runs; no
P
P
and clinics
cremation
Animal veterinary hospitals
Where there are no outside
S
P
P
P
P
or clinics
pens or runs for dogs; no
cremation
In NC & RC Districts: Provided
S
P
P
P
P
Antique stores
that no more than 200 square
feet of building'area shall be
allocated to repair
Apparel and accessory
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
stores
Appliance stores and
P
P
P
incidental service and
repair
Art galleries or studios
See Footnote 1
P
P
P
P
P
Assembly halls and
P
P
P
convention facilities
Auction houses
S
P
P
Auto service, repair and
P
P
P
maintenance shops, minor
See § 26 -631
Auto service, repair and
S
P
P
maintenance shops, major
See § 26 -631
10
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
Automobile and light -duty
See § 26 -628
S
S
S
truck sales and rental
Automotive parts and
P
P
P
supplies sales
Bail bonds businesses
See Footnote 2. See § 26 -634
P
P
for distance requirements.
Bakeries, retail
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
See § 26 -633
P
P
P
P
P
Banks, loan and finance
offices
Bed and breakfast homes
Subject to requirements set
P
P
P
P
P
forth in § 26 -608.
Bicycle stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Blueprinting, photostatic
EXCLUDING: Large printing,
S
P
P
P
P
copying and other similar
publishing and /or book binding
reproduction services
establishments
See Footnote 1
Boat, recreational vehicle
S
S
S
and trailer sales, rentals
See § 26 -628
and service
Body art establishments
S
S
S
Book stores, stationery and
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
card stores
Building contractor's service
S
P
P
shop and storage yard
incidental to an
See § 26 -629
office /showroom principal
use.
Business machine or
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
computer stores
Butcher shops and food
EXCLUDING: Food
I P
P
P
lockers
processing
I
11
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
Cabinet and woodworking
S
shops
Camera and photographic
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
service and supply stores
Candy, nut and
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
confectionery stores
Caretaker residence
Only one (1) unit for caretaker
P
P
P
P
or manager
S
Carpet cleaning and
fumigating
Carting, express, hauling or
S
storage yard
Car wash, automatic
S
P
P
Car wash, coin operated
S
P
P
Caterers
P
P
P
Day care center, large
P
P
P
Day care center, small
P
P
P
Clinics and offices for the
C -1 C -2 & I INCLUDE:
S
P
P
P
P
counseling and treatment of
Residential facilities.
NC & RC EXCLUDES:
psychological, social,
marital, developmental or
Residential facilities
similar conditions,
excluding substance abuse
ALL districts INCLUDE:
clinics
Counseling and treatment for
alcoholism
Cold storage plant
P
P
Commercial machine
S
P
P
shops
12
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
e.g.: YMCA's, YWCA's,
P
P
P
P
P
Community buildings
churches, libraries, parks,
museums, aquariums and art
galleries.
Construction and heavy
P
P
equipment sales, service,
See § 26 -629
rental and storage
Contractor's plant or
S
storage yard
Dairy products stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Day care center and
P
P
P
preschools, large
Day care center and
P
P
P
preschools, small
Department or variety
P
P
P
stores
Drug stores
P
P
P
Eating establishments,
S
S
S
S
S
drive through
Eating establishments, sit
S
P
P
P
P
down
Electric transmission and
S
S
S
S
S
public utility substations
Electrical motors and
S
armature regrinding shops
Electrical supplies and
EXCLUDING: Contractors
P
P
P
service
storage yards
Equipment rental
Subject to § 26 -628; in RC
P
P
P
P
District: Outside storage and
agencies
display prohibited
Exterminators
P
P
P
P
13
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
Farm equipment sales,
See § 26 -628
P
P
service and storage
;SUBMITTAL 70
P
P
P
P
P
COMMUNITY
FARMERS' MARKETS
0tV%b'PII11ENT,
DEPARTMENT REQUIRED.
SEE § 26 635
Floral shops
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Furniture stores
P
P
P
Garden supply stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Gift, novelty or souvenir
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
stores
INCLUDES: Private clubs,
P
P
P
restaurants and lounges,
driving ranges, and those uses
Golf courses
commonly accepted as
accessory thereto when
located on the same premises
Governmental and quasi-
P
P
P
P
P
governmental buildings and
No outside storage
offices, fire stations or
public utility buildings
Governmental and quasi-
S
S
S
P
P
governmental buildings and
Outside Storage
offices, fire stations or
public utility buildings
Greenhouses and
S
S
P
P
P
landscape nurseries, retail
See § 26 -624
Greenhouses and
S
P
P
landscape nurseries,
See § 26 -624
wholesale
Grocery or convenience
See Footnote 1
P
P
P
P
P
14
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
C
I
1
2
stores, no gas pumps
Grocery stores which may
S
S
S
P
P
include no more than 1
gasoline service island with
See Footnote 1
no more than 2 dispensing
pumps
Hair, nail and cosmetic
P
P
P
P
P
services
Hardware stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Hobby and craft stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Home furnishing stores
P
P
P
Home improvements
P
P
P
supply stores
Hotels or motels for
There shall be 1,000 square
S
S
S
transient occupancy.
feet of gross lot area for each
unit
Ice plants
P
P
Indoor amusement and
e.g.: Roller rinks, bowling
P
P
P
recreational enterprises
alleys, arcades and similar
uses
Indoor flea markets
PROHIBITED: Outdoor flea
P
P
P
markets
Interior decorating shops
S
P
P
P
P
Itinerant sales
See § 26 -630
S
S
S
Jewelry stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Kennels
S
Laundry and dry cleaning
S
S
P
P
P
15
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
shops
Laundry and dry cleaning
P
P
P
P
P
pick up stations
Leather goods and luggage
P
P
P
stores
Linen supply
P
P
P
Liquor stores
P
P
P
Locksmith shops
P
P
P
P
P
Unenclosed storage of any
P
P
P
Lumber yards and building
materials shall be screened
supply stores
from view from adjacent
properties and streets
PROVIDED: An antidote
S
exists and is readily available
for such vaccine, serums or
Manufacture of vaccines,
toxins; and approval of such
serums and toxins
manufacture is received from
the state department of health
and the county health
department
Manufacturing, processing,
See § 26 -505; § 26 -631 and §
P
P
assembly, or light industrial
26 -123, definitions
operations
Manufacturing, fabrication
S
and /or processing of
concrete products
See Chapter 11, Article 10
P
P
P
P
P
Massage therapist
Code of Laws for additional
restrictions
See Chapter 11, Article 10
P
P
P
P
P
Massage therapy center
Code of Laws for additional
restriction
Meat, poultry or seafood
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
16
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
P
I
stores
Medical and dental offices,
P
P
P
P
P
clinics or laboratories,
Pharmacies and optical stores
excluding substance abuse
are accessory use
clinics
Mini - warehouses for inside
P
P
storage
Mobile or modular homes
See § 26 -628
S
IS
or building sales
Mortuaries and
S
S
S
crematories
Motor fueling stations
S
P
P
Motorcycle sales and
See § 26 -628
P
P
P
service
Music stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Newsstands
For the sale of newspapers,
P
P
P
P
P
magazines, etc.
Office supply stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Offices: General
P
P
P
P
P
administrative, business
and professional offices
Optical stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Outdoor amusement
S
P
P
facilities
Paint and wallpaper stores
See Footnote 1
P
P
P
P
Parking of automobiles of
P
P
P
P
P
clients, patients or patrons
Subject to § 26-501 CA
of adjacent commercial or
nonresidential uses
Parking of not more than 3
See § 26 -619; § 26 -123,
S
S
S
17
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
/
commercial truck - tractors
definitions
and /or semi - trailers
When in conformance with the
parking design standards set
forth in § 26 -501
It is not intended that such
parking limitations shall apply
to pickup and delivery trucks
normally associated with
business operations
Pawn shops
S
Pet stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Pharmacies
S
P
P
P
P
Picture framing shops
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Plumbing and heating
EXCLUDING: Outdoor storage
P
P
P
supply stores and shops
yards
Printing, engraving and
S
other related production
processes
Private clubs, social clubs,
P
P
P
bingo parlors and similar
uses
OW" Mm"
SEE:§ 26-636
P. -,
P
h
P. I
P
Psychic advisors and
S
S
S
P
similar uses
Research laboratories,
P
P
offices and other facilities
for research
Residential group and
P
P
P
P
P
nursing homes and
congregate care facilities
for 8 or fewer elderly
18
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
persons
Residential group and
S
S
S
nursing homes and
congregate care facilities
for 9 or more elderly
persons
Residential group home for
S
S
S
children
Such residential uses may be
P
P
P
P
P
Residential uses in
extended, enlarged, and /or
existence on 3/11/97
reconstructed so long as no
additional dwelling units are
created
Residential uses in
See § 26 -626
P
P
P
P
P
commercial zones
Rooming and
S
S
P
P
P
boardinghouses
RV, boat, trailer and travel
See § 26 -628
P
P
trailer storage
Sales, repair, rental and
P
P
servicing of any commodity
that the manufacture,
fabrication, processing or
sale of which is permitted in
the district
Schools for industrial or
S
S
business training, including
Conducted entirely within an
vocational trade or
enclosed building
professional schools
INCLUDES: Those uses
S
S
S
P
P
Schools: public; private
commonly accepted as
colleges and universities
necessary thereto when
located on the same premises
Shoe repair shops
P
P
P
P
P
Shoe stores
See Footnote 1
j S
P
P
P
P
19
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
Shops for custom work or
P
P
for making articles,
materials or commodities to
See § 26 -631; § 26 -632
be sold at retail on the
premises
In accordance with Wheat
P
P
P
Social club
Ridge Code of Laws, Chapter
11, Article XI
Sporting goods stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Stone cutting or polishing
P
P
works
Studio for professional work
P
P
P
P
P
or teaching of fine arts,
photography, music, drama
or dance
Substance abuse clinics
S
S
P
Tailor, dressmaking or
P
P
P
P
P
clothing alteration shops
Taverns, night clubs,
P
P
P
lounges, private clubs and
bars
Television, radio, small
S
P
P
P
P
appliance repair and
See Footnote 1
service shops
Temporary Christmas tree,
P
P
P
P
produce and bedding plant
See § 26 -627
sales lots
Theatres, indoor
P
P
P
Tobacco stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Toy stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
20
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
Accessory buildings and structures
C
I
Transit station, public or
lines and poles, irrigation channels, storm
drainage and water supply facilities
S
S
S
private
Subtri4taL to oomlmun(ty.
P
P
P
R
P
Urban gardens
90t department
required: See §�26 =637
Upholstery shops
P
P
P
Video rentals
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Warehousing and outside
See § 26 -631
P
P
storage
Maximum 75% total area as
S
P
P
Warehouse /office
warehouse; minimum 25% as
total area as office
Watch and jewelry repair
P
P
P
P
P
shops
Woodworking or carpentry
S
P
P
shops for the making of
articles for sale upon the
See § 26 -632
premises, such as cabinets
or custom furniture
Footnote:
1 The amount of building space devoted to retail use is limited to 5,000 square feet in
NC and RC Districts.
2 In addition to being allowed as a Permitted Principal Use in the C -2 and I zone
districts, bail bonds businesses may be permitted in Planned Industrial Development
districts if approved as part of an Outline Development Plan (ODP) and in conformance
with the requirements of Code section 26 -634.
TABLE INSET:
Commercial and Industrial District Accessory
Notes
Uses
Accessory buildings and structures
See § 26 -625
Electric transmission or other public utility
lines and poles, irrigation channels, storm
drainage and water supply facilities
Farmers' marlcefa
:See § 2& `63
21
Food services
Primarily for the occupants of a building
containing a permitted use when
located within the same building
PRODUCE: STANDS
SEE § 26 =636
Residential uses in commercial zones
See § 26 -626
Outside storage or display
See § 26 -631
URBAN GARDENS
SSE § 26 -G37
Key:
P = Permitted Principal Uses
S = Special Uses
Section 4: Section 26 -502 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26 -502. Landscaping requirements.
A. Landscaping defined. A combination of living plants, such as trees, shrubs, vines,
groundcover, flowers, VEGETABLE PLANTS; sod or grass; and may include natural
features, such as rock, stone and bark; and structural features, including, but not limited
to, fountains, reflecting pools, artwork, screen walls, fences and benches. Uncontrolled
weeds shall not be considered as landscaping; however, maintained natural grasses
and natural flowers may be considered as landscaping.
Sidewalks, whether paved or gravel, which serve as functional links between parking
areas and main structures, or which serve as general public access routes around a
main structure, or between a main structure and a public street or alley, shall not be
counted as landscaping. Other sidewalks or paths which serve as casual access to or
through landscape areas may be counted a nonliving landscape features.
Section 5: Section 26 -613 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26 -613. Home occupations.
A. Home occupation. Home occupations are permitted as accessory uses to any
conforming (as to use) residential dwelling; provided, however, that the following
requirements are met:
1. Such use shall be conducted entirely within a dwelling or accessory structure
except for sales of plants, and produce, OR OTHER AGRICULTURAL;
PROQUCT9'grown, RAISED, QR PRO,UUCED on the premises and carried on
only by the inhabitants living there, with the exception that should the operator be
substantially, physically handicapped a nonresident may be employed to assist
the operator in his work to the extent he requires it to make up for his physical
handicap.
2. Not more than one (1) employee may live off - premises.
22
3. Such use shall be clearly incidental and secondary to the use of the dwelling
for dwelling purposes and shall not change the character thereof.
4. The total area used for said purposes shall not exceed twenty-five (25)
percent of the gross floor area of the user's dwelling unit
5 .;. , _ n EACH
11. Home occupations are limited to the following business or commercial
activities:
a. Craft work, such as the making of pottery, jewelry or dolls, flower
arranging, smithing and woodworking.
b. Garment work, such as tailoring, dressmaking, millinery work, ironing and
garment repair.
c. Office uses, such as office uses for door -to-door, home party and
telephone solicitation sales, investment counseling, typing, notary public,
travel services, surveyors, physicians, dentists, lawyers, accountants,
architects, engineers and other similar services.
d. Repair services for electronics, small appliances, and mechanical
devices, bicycles and upholstery.
e. Tutoring, music lessons, dance lessons, gymnastics lessons, swim
lessons and tennis lessons.
f. Artistic endeavors, such as art studios, portrait studios, photography
studios, writing and lithography.
g. Garage sales, not to exceed four (4) three -day periods, which need not be
consecutive, per calendar year.
h. Hair care services carried on by only one (1) inhabitant of the dwelling. No
other employee shall be permitted.
L Small day care home.
j. Sales directly related but merely ancillary to the primary home occupation,
such as:
(1) Sale of hair care products by a beautician or barber.
(2) Sale of accompaniment items, such as neckties, bows, ribbons or
belts for a tailor or dressmaker.
(3) Sale of component parts or accessories used in repair services for
electronics, small appliances, bicycles, etc.
(4) Supplies related to a class, course of instruction, or lessons
conducted on the site.
(5) Sale of artistic or craft works which were created on the site, such as
pottery, jewelry, dolls, ortraits, paintings, scull tures, etc
(6) Sale of �'
23
24
Section 6: Sections 26 -635, 26 -636, and 26 -637 are hereby added to Article VI.
Supplementary Regulations:
OF
ON
Section 7: The Table of Uses in Section 26 -1111 of the Code are amended to read:
Permitted Uses
Use Group
MU -C
MU -C
Interstate
MU -C TOD
MU -N
Residential
Assisted living facility
P
P
P
P
Dwelling, single detached
NP
NP
NP
P
Dwelling, single attached
P
P
P
P
Dwelling, duplex
P
NP
NP
P
oil
Permitted Uses
Use Group
MU -C
MU -C
MU -C TOD
MU -N
Interstate
Dwelling, multiple
P
P
P
P
Dwelling, live/work
P
P
P
P
Foster care home
NP
NP
NP
P
Residential group home
P
P
P
P
Public, Civic, and Institutional
Community buildings and cultural
facilities, including libraries,
p
p
p
p
museums, and art galleries
Hospital
C
C
C
NP
Parks, open space, playgrounds,
P
p
P
p
and plazas
Place of worship
P
P
P
P
Public uses and buildings
P
P
P
P
Recreation facilities, indoor and
P
p
P
p
outdoor
Schools, public and private;
colleges, universities, and trade
P
P
P
P
schools
Utilities, major
NP
NP
NP
NP
U tilities, minor
P
P
P
P
URBAN GARDENS (SUBMITTAL
REQUIRED TO COMMUNITY
P
P
P
P
DEVELOPM, ENT DEPARTMENT.
SEE §2fi -637j
Transit stations, public or private
C
C
C
C
Commercial Services and Retail
Adult entertainment
NP
NP
NP
NP
Animal daycare, indoor with no
P
P
p
P
outdoor runs or pens
Bail bonds (per §26 -634)
C
C
NP
NP
Banks and financial institutions,
P
P
P
p
no drive - through or drive -up
Banks and financial institutions,
C
P
C
C
with drive - through or drive -up
Bars, taverns, and night clubs
P
P
P
P
Bed and breakfast
P
P
P
P
Car washes
NP
C
NP
NP
Day care center, child and adult
P
P
P
P
Drive -up or drive - through uses
C
P
C
C
(per §26-1106.E)
Eating establishment, sit down
P
P
P
P
27
Permitted Uses
Use Group
MU -C
MU -C
MU -C TOD
MU -N
Interstate
Eating establishment, drive-
C
P
C
C
through or drive -up
Fast food eating establishment,
C
P
C
C
drive - through or drive -up
Motor fueling stations
C
C
NP
C
Motor vehicles sales, outdoor
NP
NP
NP
NP
display
Motor vehicle sales, indoor display
P
P
C
C
Outdoor storage
NP
NP
NP
NP
Pawn brokers
NP
NP
NP
NP
Personal services
P
P
P
P
Photocopying and printing
P
P
P
P
PRODUCE STANDS (SEE §26=
016 AN FOR; HOME
P
P
P
P
OCCUPATIONS)
Recreation facilities, commercial
P
P
P
P
Repair, rental and servicing of
C
P
C
C
automobiles, no outdoor storage
Retail sales — up to 20,000 gsf for
P
P
P
P
one tenant space
Retail sales — up to 60,000 gsf for
P
P
C
C
one tenant space
Retail sales — over 60,000 gsf for
C
C
NP
NP
one tenant space
URBWGARDENS (SUBMITTAL
REQUIRED TO COMMUNITY
D „E1iELOPMENT DEPARTMENT
P
SEE §Z6 -637)'
Veterinary clinics and hospitals,
P
P
P
P
no outdoor runs or pens
Hospitality and Entertainment
Art studios and galleries
P
P
P
P
Hotels, motels, and extended stay
P
P
P
P
lodging
Studios, including art, music,
dance, television and radio
P
P
P
P
broadcasting stations
Theaters
P
P
P
P
Office and Industrial
Medical and dental clinics
P
P
P
P
28
Permitted Uses
Use Group
MU -C
MU -C
MU -C TOD
MU -N
MAXIMU
MINIMU
Interstate
TYPE OF
ALLOWE
Offices
P
P
P
P
Office- warehouse, no outdoor
D
REQUIRED
HEIGHT PER
NUMBER
storage
C
C
C
NP
Outdoor storage
NP
NP
NP
NP
Restricted light industrial
C
C
C
NP
Wholesale
C
C
C
C
Ancillary Uses'
Parking facilities
P
P
P T
P
Temporary Uses
Special events, including festivals
MA�f ONLY BE
FARMER
and farmers markets. FOR
NO'LARGER
1 PE,R
FARMERS' MARKETS, SEE §
P
P
P
P
*dss
NONE
WHEN THE
MARKET,
Key: P = Permitted C = Conditional Use (see § 26 -1117) NP = Not Permitted
Section 8: Table 1 in Section 26 -709 of the Code is amended to include the following
sign types:
TABLE INSET:
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN RESIDENTIAL, AGRICULTURAL, AND PUBLIC FACILITIES ZONES
(R -1, R -1A, R -1 B, R -1 C, R -2, R -2A, R -3, R -3A, A -1, A -2, PF)
MAXIMUM
MAXIMU
MINIMU
OTHER
TYPE OF
ALLOWE
PERMIT
SIZE AND
M
M
REQUIREMENT
SIGN
D
REQUIRED
HEIGHT PER
NUMBER
SETBAC
S
SIGN
K
13. Miscellaneous
MAYHIOT "B6
�LLUMIN'ATE,D
MA�f ONLY BE
FARMER
NO'LARGER
1 PE,R
Qt�biSPLAl(
YES
NO,
TIgN 50
FARMER
NONE
WHEN THE
MARKET,
SOUARE
S'
M�FRKET,ISgN
SIGNf;
FEET'-
MARKET,
OPERATION,
'SEE § 26 =635
=NO F'OR
WNERE
M "Y'
R.
EIVIPORARYRQDUGE
IL�N�i ATEDs'
PROpUC
YES`, ;
FRESTAJ�bi
STAND�IS A
7 PER
5
MAj( OLY BE
E S ANb
NG SIGN'
HO IIE
STAND
FEET
O�1 DISPLAY
RPM
YES FOR
OCCUPATiOy;
[l��iING
PERMANENT
TE�SIGH
)IA'i7��1,THS
29
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN RESIDENTIAL, AGRICULTURAL, AND PUBLIC FACILITIES ZONES
(R -1, R -1A, R -1 B, R -1 C, R -2, R -2A, R -3, R -3A, A -1, A -2, PF)
MAXIMUM
MAXIMU
MINIMU
OTHER
TYPE OF
ALLOWE
PERMIT
SIZE AND
M
M
REQUIREMENT
SIGN
D
REQUIRED
HEIGHT PER
NUMBER
SETBAC
S
SIGN
REQUIRED
SIGN
NUMBER
K
WALL SIGNS
MUST MEET
WHEN THE
RE 4 UIREMEN
�
PRODUCE
13. Miscellaneous
TS FOR HOME
STAND IS
A 4 T BS
QCCUPATION
OPERATIONAL
.
IL- `LUMIIJgTt;D=
Q
SIGNS %I ,,
LA GE R
1 E
P R
€ SEE§•26 =63&
MAxY ONLYsBE
FARIIAERS
' MARKET
YES
ALWOT J f R
s
TkIAN
-
FARI►� E
NONE
ON DISPLAY
WHE T
PRODUCS
SQUfiR ,_
MARKET
MARV�(ET
STbNDS,M/(Y
FEET.
OPER"AT10F1
HAVE QNE�
SIGN UP TQ'6
SQUARE,FEET
IN'SIZE�ANI)
U? TO 8 FEET
IN,
MAXIMUM
S
SIZE OF. B
URBAN
SQUAREFE_ET
ILEE
YES
YES
T
5 FEET
NA
GARDEN
MAXIMUM
§ 37D)
SIGN
HEId A f OFY5
FEET
Section 9: Table 1 in Section 26 -710 of the Code is amended to include the following
sign types:
TABLE INSET:
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL AND MIXED USE DISTRICTS
(NC, RC, C -1, C -2, 1)
MAXIMU
M SIZE
MAXIMUM
MINIMUM
OTHER
TYPE OF
ALLOWED
PERMIT
AND
SETBACK
REQUIREMENTS
SIGN
REQUIRED
HEIGHT
NUMBER
PER
SIGN
13. Miscellaneous
A 4 T BS
.
IL- `LUMIIJgTt;D=
Q
LA GE R
1 E
P R
MAxY ONLYsBE
FARIIAERS
' MARKET
YES
NO
s
TkIAN
-
FARI►� E
NONE
ON DISPLAY
WHE T
SQUfiR ,_
MARKET
MARV�(ET
FEET.
OPER"AT10F1
30
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL AND MIXED USE DISTRICTS
(NC, RC, C -1, C -2, 1)
MAXIMU
M SIZE
MAXIMUM
MINIMUM
OTHER
TYPE OF
ALLOWED
PERMIT
AND
SETBACK
REQUIREMENTS
SIGN
REQUIRED
HEIGHT
NUMBER
PER
SIGN
MAXIMIJ
M SIZE
IIMAY' BE
ILLUMINATED:
NO FOR
TEMPORARY
OF 6
SQUARE
MAY OMLY BE
R.
PRODUCE
STpNpIN
FREE.
F EET
1 PER
ON DISPL/{Y
DUN,
YES''
G SIGNSYES
qND
5'FEET
STAND
FOR
MAXIMU
STAND
MONThIS WHEN
SIGN
PERMANENT
�
M
THE PRODUCE
WALL SIGNS: i
HEIGHT
STAND.IS
OPERATIONAL;
OF. 6
SEE § 26 -fi36
FEET:.
rMkimu
WSIZE
OF;6
SQUARE
S. URBAN
FEET
MAY NOT BE
GARDEN
YES
YES
AND
1
5FEET
ILLUMINATED.
SIGN
MAXIIVIU
SEE § 26 -637
M
HEIGHT
OF 5
FEET
Section 10: Safety Clause The City Council hereby finds, determines, and declares
that this Ordinance is promulgated under the general police power of the City of Wheat
Ridge, that it is promulgated for the health, safety and welfare of the public and that this
Ordinance is necessary for the preservation of health and safety and for the protection
of public convenience and welfare. The City Council further determines that the
Ordinance bears a rational relation to the proper legislative object sought to be attained.
Section 11: Severability: Conflicting Ordinances Repealed If any section,
subsection or clause of the ordinance shall be deemed to be unconstitutional or
otherwise invalid, the validity of the remaining sections, subsections and clauses shall
not be affected thereby. All other ordinances or parts of the ordinances in conflict with
the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed.
Section 12: Effective Date This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen days after final
publication, as provided by Section 5.11 of the Charter.
INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of _ to _ on
this 9th day of May, 2011, ordered published with Public Hearing and consideration of
31
final passage set for Monday, May 23rd, 2011 at 7:00 p.m., in the Council Chambers,
7500 West 29 Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado, and that it takes effect 15 days after
final publication
READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by
a vote of to , this _th day of , 2011.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this day of 2011.
ATTEST:
Jerry DiTullio, Mayor
Michael Snow, City Clerk
Approved As To Form
Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney
First Publication:
Second Publication: _
Wheat Ridge Transcript
Effective Date:
32
April 29, 2011
City Council
City of Wheat Ridge
7500 W 29 Avenue
1' floor
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Dear Wheat Ridge City Council:
LiveWell Wheat Ridge is a community movement funded by LiveWell Colorado working to
reduce and prevent obesity for better health outcomes. Emerging best practices show that we
positively impact food consumption choices by increasing access to healthy foods. To this end,
LiveWell Wheat Ridge is involved in a myriad of approaches to increase nutritional food
consumption in our community and to grow our markets in Wheat Ridge.
In the fall of 2010, LiveWell Wheat Ridge partnered with the Wheat Ridge Access to Fresh Fruit
and Vegetables Task Force, Jefferson Conservation District and CREA Results to administer the
Wheat Ridge Healthy Food Assessment. Modeled after similar healthy food assessments in the
country, this assessment surveyed over 200 respondents on questions related to access and
barriers to growing, purchasing and consuming fresh fruit and vegetables. Using an online and
paper survey in English and Spanish, and by partnering with older adults and bilingual and
bicultural outreach workers, we over - sampled diverse socioeconomic segments of our
community. In this report, we captured important information about ways to reduce barriers to
accessing fresh fruit and vegetables, increase growing opportunities, expand local markets, and
integrate local produce into our food systems.
Because we need to use a multifaceted systems approach to solving healthy food access issues
and grow our markets, we hope this report provides valuable information to the City Council, as
well as all sectors of our community, to support informed policy making, innovate our
programming and provide opportunities for economic growth in Wheat Ridge.
Sincerely,
Molly Hanson
LiveWell Wheat Ridge Coordinator
Attachment 2
SUPPORT FOR HEALTHY EATING IN WHEAT RIDGE
LiveWell Wheat Ridge
(LWWR), a community initia-
tive funded by LiveWell Colo-
rado, advocates healthy eating
and active living (HEAL) poli-
cies and infrastructure im-
provements in Wheat Ridge. i
LWWR is working with city
policymakers, staff and resi-
dents to incorporate plans for
increasing access to healthy
foods, particularly for lower in-
come and Latino residents of
Wheat Ridge.
In partnership with the Jeffer-
son Conservation District and
CREA Results, a community-
based outreach organization,
LWWR conducted a community
WHAT RESIDENTS
needs assessment in the fall
2010 of access to fresh fruits
and vegetables and locally
grown foods. A 25 -item sur-
vey in English and Spanish
V
administered online an
n hardcopy to Wheat Ridge
residents and nonresidents
gather information on con-
sumption patterns, attitude
and barriers to accessing fre
foods. Over two hundred re-
spondents completed the s
vey. For the purposes of thi
report, we have confined our
analysis to the 135 Wheat
Ridge residents who com-
pleted the survey.
Shopping
The vast majority (over 90 %) of respon-
dents report going to grocery stores to
get their fresh fruits and vegetables
regardless of the time of year and most
use their own cars to get there.
Almost half (47 %) of the respondents
get their produce at farmers' markets,
fruit and vegetable stands or gardens
during the summer. A far greater per-
centage of Whites (69 %) go to these lo-
cations compared to Latinos (20 %).
to ?;7 %' Under $15,000
27°%� $15,000 - $29,000
E;21% $30,000- $49,000
X19 °k $50,000- $99,000
s ^ ?$100,000
sh 7% Chose not to
respond
s
What to Eat
A majority (72 %) of respondents
report freshness as an important
aspect of deciding which fruits
and vegetables to eat, followed by
62% who report cost as impor-
tant, 47% who report healthiness
as important and 43% who report
taste as important.
Demographic Profile of
ar
a
- X can age = 46 years
t�
a�
.s.
to ?;7 %' Under $15,000
27°%� $15,000 - $29,000
E;21% $30,000- $49,000
X19 °k $50,000- $99,000
s ^ ?$100,000
sh 7% Chose not to
respond
s
What to Eat
A majority (72 %) of respondents
report freshness as an important
aspect of deciding which fruits
and vegetables to eat, followed by
62% who report cost as impor-
tant, 47% who report healthiness
as important and 43% who report
taste as important.
Demographic Profile of
of S
Survey Respondents
- X can age = 46 years
:} #7 %0 seniors (65 years
"and older)
What to Eat
A majority (72 %) of respondents
report freshness as an important
aspect of deciding which fruits
and vegetables to eat, followed by
62% who report cost as impor-
tant, 47% who report healthiness
as important and 43% who report
taste as important.
h
,
AND FUTURE
OF WHEAT
Fifty -four percent of respondents, or 73 peo-
ple, do not go to the Wheat Ridge Famers' Mar-
ket.
Almost half (46 %) of the respondents go to the
Wheat Ridge Farmers' Market. Most (over
70 %) buy fruits and vegetables. A quarter buy
other food items, a quarter don't buy anything
and 5% buy flowers or plants. Sixty -nine per-
cent of Latinos, 45% of males and 32% of lower
income respondents who go to the Wheat Ridge
Farmers' Market do not buy anything com-
pared to only 9% of Whites who do not buy any-
thing.
Twenty -six percent of the respondents (35
people) report going outside of Wheat Ridge to
another farmers' market. Reasons include:
more convenient locations, better days of the
week, more convenient hours or better produce
selection at the other markets. A very small
percentage (3 %) report that they go to another
market because the produce at the market is
grown locally in that jurisdiction.
This fact sheet was designed and
created by
Center for Research Strategies
www.crsllc.org
Why Don't People Go to the Farmers' Market?
(73 Respondents)
15 %- 14% _.. 13%
41;%r -
a
9
6 T �
F s osv _10c
5i�o� o �c oo h i C�
o� c` ooc
zr o0
oQ
Other reasons for not going to the Wheat
Ridge Farmers' Market reported by only a few
respondents include: prefer going to grocery
store, only eat organic, grow my own, not inter-
ested, don't think about it, hard to walk
around or find parking, forget because market
open only one day a week, part of Community
Supported Agriculture.
16
s
0
s
a�
a
s
Reasons for Visiting Farmers' Markets Outside of Wheat Ridge
Gardening at Home
Just over half of respondents (52 %) garden at home. Seventy percent grow vegetables, 54%
grow flowers, 49% grow spices and herbs and 37% grow fruit. Forty -eight percent, or 65 people,
do not grow at home. The most common reasons for not growing at home are shown in the
graph below. Additional reasons noted by a few respondents include: living in an apartment, no
desire, having moved or contending with squirrels. Of the 30 respondents who report not hav-
ing enough space to garden, only 5 are interested in renting space at the Wheat Ridge commu-
nity garden called the Happiness Garden.
Locally Grown Foods
Wheat Ridge residents interested
--------------- -
��� 9G � 9 ✓n -P m
are
in having access to locally grown foods.
locally Grown Foods
Respondents report that they think it is
100%
important for markets to carry locally
v
}
grown foods, that they would be more
a
likely to go to a restaurant if it served
a
d 50% y
locally grown food, that they would be
u :
"c
interested in buying produce from a local
tl �
a 9
farmer and that they would consider
0% -
joining a local food co -op grocery store
that sells local produce.
- —
o
Important for Wheat Ridge food markets to carry locally grown produce
Thirty -one percent report they want
°
More likely to go to a Wheat Ridge restaurant using locally grown food
°
Willing to pay more for locally grown foods
more information about buying from a
0
Interested in buying produce from a local farmer and having it delivered
local farmer. Twenty -four percent want
to their homes
more information about food co -ops.
°
Want to be part of a food co -op grocery store to access more locally
grown products
Getting Involved
Wheat Ridge residents want to get in-
volved and they want more information.
Almost half (46 %) of the respondents re-
port they are interested in coming to a
community event that raises awareness
of the importance of locally grown pro-
duce. A quarter (25 %) report they would
like to join the Fresh Fruits and Vegeta-
bles Task Force. Only 3 respondents re-
port they had ever called the City of
Wheat Ridge about growing or selling
fruits and vegetables, farming, compost-
ing or other gardening questions.
Respondents also report they would like more in-
formation about urban agriculture.
Message to Policymakers
Most residents buy their produce at grocery stores, but almost 50% also buy at farmers' markets.
Should the city encourage more grocery and produce stores to locate in Wheat Ridge?
Should the city partner to create additional farmers' markets, perhaps on a weekend day, to en-
courage greater participation?
Almost 75% of the respondent group rates freshness of produce as an important aspect of considering what fruits
and vegetables to buy. Two - thirds are sensitive to cost.
What can be done to ensure freshness of produce?
How can we ensure produce is affordable?
Not quite half of the respondent group patronizes the Wheat Ridge Famers' Market. When asked why they don't
go, reasons include cost, inconvenient time, not having transportation and not knowing where the market is.
How do we ensure produce is affordable at the Wheat Ridge Farmers' Market?
How do we do a better job of marketing the Wheat Ridge Farmers' Market?
Half of the respondents grow gardens at home. Half do not. Individuals surveyed don't have space or time to
grow at home. Additionally, those surveyed did not want to rent space at the Wheat Ridge community garden.
Should the city use resources, such as city -owned land or funding, to help create new community
gardens?
How do we support home gardening in Wheat Ridge?
Residents want locally grown foods to be available, not only to prepare and consume at home, but to eat at local
restaurants.
How can more locally grown produce by available in Wheat Ridge?
Are there policies or incentives that the city could provide to encourage restaurants to use local
produce?
For more information, please contact Molly Hanson, LiveWell Wheat Ridge Coordinator, at
mhansonCjeffco.us.
Funding for this report is provided by LiveWell Colorado
PUBLIC HEARING SPEAKERS' LIST
Case No. ZOA- 11 -02 An ordinance amending Chapter 26 concerning Urban Agriculture.
SPEAKER NAME, ADDRESS & PHONE (PLEASE PRINT) IN FAVOR/OPPO
79 L Ge wood/ �U
/ /- / a ✓O/--
C
se No. ZOA -11 -02
Ciryw
W heat (midge
Urban Agriculture
rny
'Whea t i :e
1
Urban Agriculture
��Ecorom�c devel4prnent." .,
Sustainability
— Neighborhood revitalization
— `Health
Food security
Urban Agriculture
• r7I gardens in inner-city
neighborhoods
2
Urban Agriculture
�, hvor
'�WheatF�ge
Urban Agriculture
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.°. ..,_.,,__ ......................
SF4.2- Amiealb /e HwthyFwds
The City will continue to work with the agricultural community,
small business owners, and health orgaa'a rions to provide
residents with opporha ties for accessible and affordable healthy
Envision
(gads.
WHEAT RIDGE
Stmteales:
. n„ ser w s,n son.,.
A Continue imnament in community gardens;
B. Revise regulations to allow tarme /s markets, produce
stands, and urban agriculture (including shared
garden; composting, and domestic animals on large
lots); am
C. Preserve costing small agricultural operators (keep
cumem agricultural raring or allow limited agricultural
operations in various mrcng districts).
' `I �� � � Die rommumly's 9o� oM
h � � aXordaNe, h � lfrods. m
3
Urban Agriculture
I
rwQatE , ge
Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
Minor changes to home c,i Ha na.
occupation regulations
to clarify ability to sell
from home
W heatF2�clge
4
Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
• Restricted to sale of products
primarily grown, raised, or
produced on the site
• In residential zone districts, hours
restricted from 7am to sundown
Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
restrictea to L Jt. All otners
restricted to 6 SF.
• Business license required
'�WhcaeR��e
5
Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
residential districts
Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
canner uN w au ar
• Submittal required to
Community Development
• Business license required
c''
'� W heatk�<ge
n
Urban Ajriculture Code Amendments
flowers
• Includes community gardens,
market gardens, CSAs
a t
Urban
t i
p
Iture Code Amendments
"' «o �
wheat id�?e
7
Urban Aericulture Code Amendments
requirement, but there must be
adequate on- street parking nearby
• Hours of operation restricted to
7am to sundown in residential
zone districts
' Ia`
� W heat P"!yge
Urban Alariculture Code Amendments
- Residential zone districts: max 600 —
1000 SF
— Commercial zone districts: max 500
SF M
Wheat} 'An
(
Urban Agriculture
'- Whcat[kAe
Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
Fresh Fruits and Vegetables
(AFFV) task force members
s to
q- W heat id
9
Urban Agriculture
�WheaC idga:,
Urban Agriculture
• Will allow uses that positively it
health, environment, and
community development
Envision
WHEAT RIDGE
A Ilan for A BripM 1.1—
Ict
«,«
W hear idge
10
s
City Of
Wheat�dge
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Memorandum
TO: Planning Commission
FROM: Sarah Showalter, Planner II
DATE: April 19, 2011
SUBJECT: Revised Recommended Motion for Case ZOA -11 -02 (for April 21 Public
Hearing)
Staff recommends a minor revision to the definition of "urban garden" in the proposed ordinance
relating to urban agricultural code amendments (Case number ZOA- 11 -02). The proposed
change would amend the definition of urban garden to include scenarios in which the garden is
maintained or operated by an individual. The proposed new definition would read:
Urban garden. An area of land managed and maintained by an individual or group
of individuals to grow and harvest food crops and/or non -food ornamental crops,
such as flowers. Urban gardens may be divided into separate plots for cultivation
by one or more individuals or may be maintained and cultivated collectively.
Urban garden examples include community gardens, where crops are consumed
or donated, market gardens, where crops are sold for profit, and community -
supported agriculture (CSA), where crops are sold or donated for shareholder
consumption.
Given this proposal, the new recommended motion is:
"I move to recommend approval of the proposed ordinance amending Chapter 26 to support
urban agricultural uses and activities, with the following conditions: (1) that urban gardens are
allowed as a special use on residentially -zoned lots where the primary use is a single- or two -
family home; and (2) that the definition of urban garden is amended to include land managed and
maintained by an individual or group of individuals."
-' , I City of
Wheat�idge PLANNING COMMISSION
COMMUMT DEVELOPMENT LEGISLATIVE ITEM STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: April 21, 2011
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 26 TO SUPPORT URBAN
AGRICULTURAL USES AND ACTIVITIES
CASE NO. ZOA -11 -02
M PUBLIC HEARING M CODE CHANGE ORDINANCE
Case Manager: Sarah Showalter, AICP
Date of Preparation: April 14, 2011
SUMMARY:
In the past year, the City has witnessed an increased interest in the topic of urban agriculture, evidenced
by new community gardens that are under works in Wheat Ridge, as well as the formation of the Access
to Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Task Force, a group of citizens formed by LiveWell Wheat Ridge and the
Jefferson Conservation District. Planning Division staff has received several inquiries related to urban
agriculture, such as whether community gardens are allowed on vacant lots and whether large gardens
and greenhouses would be allowed on the same lot as a business or restaurant. For most of these topics,
the current zoning code contains little to no direction.
Due to the large interest in growing and selling produce in the City, the proposed ordinance would
amend Chapter 26 to clarify what urban agriculture uses are allowed in various zone districts. The
proposed ordinance establishes where three main uses — urban gardens, farmers' markets, and produce
stands — are allowed and includes minimal regulations for each use.
BACKGROUND
In some communities, promoting urban agriculture dates as far back as the 1960s and 1970s, when
community gardens first started to form in cities like New York City and Philadelphia. In the past 10
years, however, the trend to produce and sell local food in urban communities has become ever more
prevalent. Some cities, such as Cleveland and Detroit, have embraced community gardens and market
gardens (gardens where food is sold, usually for profit, to restaurants, stores, and farmers markets) as a
way to revitalize vacant land in inner -city neighborhoods. Other cities, such as Seattle and Chicago, have
planted fruit and vegetable plants on city -owned parks and medians. Urban and suburban communities
are drawn to urban agriculture for a variety of reasons, including:
• Economic and community development
• Environmental sustainability
• Connecting urban dwellers to fresh, healthy food
ZOA- 11- 02/Urban Agriculture
In Wheat Ridge, a community founded on an agricultural past, there is a renewed interest in how
agriculture can be integrated into a largely built -out city. Many residents already have home gardens and
there is an existing community garden on City -owned land, called Happiness Gardens. However, there is
demonstrated interest by residents, schools, and business to expand urban agricultural uses — including
community gardens, yard sharing, community- supported agriculture, and roadside produce stands. The
desire for Wheat Ridge residents to access shared gardens, especially if they do not have room on their
private lot, is demonstrated by the Healthy Food Assessment completed by LiveWell Wheat Ridge in
2010 (see results of this assessment in Attachment 2).
The intent of the attached ordinance is to clarify where uses related to growing and selling produce are
allowed in the City. Chapter 26 already contains fairly flexible provisions that allow residential
homeowners to keep animals on their property as well as grow and sell produce from their home through
a home occupation license. The primary amendments in the ordinance relate to urban gardens, farmers
markets, and produce stands. Based on policy direction received from City Council at a Study Session in
December 2010 and from Planning Commission at a Study Session in January 2011, the approach is to
be quite permissive, allowing these uses in all zone districts.
Process
Staff started researching zoning regulations related to urban agriculture one year ago. There is a limited
number of jurisdictions in the Denver metro area that have updated their codes to address urban
agriculture; Denver has already passed such changes and Lakewood is currently in the process of
updating their code. Thus the majority of staff's research entailed communities throughout the country —
including Seattle, Cleveland, Milkwaukee, and Kansas City — that have been recognized for adopting
zoning codes that support urban agricultural activities.
In drafting the code amendments, Planning staff sought input from relevant City departments and
divisions, including code enforcement officers and the Building Division. Staff also utilized real -life
inquiries from community members and residents to test the proposed code. A group of Wheat Ridge
residents that are part of the Access to Fresh Fruits and Vegetables (AFFV) task force also reviewed and
commented on a draft of the ordinance, providing very helpful feedback to staff. The proposed ordinance
also reflects input received from Study Sessions with City Council on December 6, 2010 and March 7,
2011, as well as a Study Session with Planning Commission on January 6, 2011.
Overview of Proposed Ordinance
Below please find a summary of the amendments contained in the proposed ordinance.
1. Landscape Definition
The definition of landscaping in Section 26 -502 is amended to include vegetable plants, to clarify
that areas planted as a garden shall qualify as landscaped area.
2. Home Occupation Regulations
The regulations pertaining to home occupations (Section 26 -513) are revised to clarify that the
sales of produce or other agricultural products made on -site are allowed to occur outdoors (as
opposed to all other home occupations, which must occur indoors). This amendment is intended
to allow homeowners to establish temporary produce stands on their property as a home
occupation.
ZOA- 11- 02/Urban Agriculture
3. Accessory Building Regulations
The definition of an accessory building has been modified to clarify that urban garden uses may
have an accessory structure (such as a shed or greenhouse) even if there is not a primary structure
on the lot.
4. Urban Gardens
Urban gardens are defined as shared gardens that are managed and maintained by a group of
individuals. Urban gardens may include community gardens (typically a non -profit model in
which plots are leased for a minimal cost to growers and food is consumed or donated), market
gardens (where food grown on site is sold for a profit), and community- supported agriculture, or
CSA, where people purchase shares of produce from a garden or farm.
Per the proposed ordinance, urban gardens are allowed as a primary or accessory use in all zone
districts. However, prior to establishing such a use, an applicant must first submit to the
Community Development Department a packet that includes a site plan and operational
information (including hours of operation and proposed parking areas) for review. The ordinance
also establishes some basic regulations for urban garden uses, including:
• Signage: each garden would be allowed one non - illuminated sign up to 6 square feet in
size and 5 feet in height
• Landscape buffer: a minimum 5 -foot planted area is required wherever an urban garden
abuts a property with a residential use
• Parking: there is no specific requirement for off - street parking. However, if there is not
adequate parking on adjacent streets, then the Community Development Department may
require some on -site parking
• Hours of operation: in residential zone districts, hours of operation are restricted to lam
to sunset (and any exterior lighting must be turned off at this time)
• Structures: structures such as sheds and greenhouses are allowed, but they would need to
follow the limits on size and height, as well as setbacks, for accessory structures in the
property's underlying zone district.
The attached ordinance currently does not allow urban gardens as an accessory use on
residentially -zoned lots where there is a single- or two - family home as the primary use. Staff
originally proposed this approach due to concerns about high intensity of use in low- density
residential neighborhoods, as well as potential neighborhood impacts such as traffic and noise.
However, staff received input from some Wheat Ridge residents that this provision is too
restrictive and that there are cases in which it might be appropriate to allow an urban garden on
the same property as a home. One example has already arisen as there is a Wheat Ridge resident
who would like to add a quarter -acre community garden to their property, zoned R -2 on Marshall
Court, where there is already a single - family home. Due to these concerns, staff recommends
changing the ordinance so that urban gardens could be allowed as an accessory use to single- or
two - family homes as a special use. This solution would require applicants to complete the special
use permit (SUP) process, which would afford staff the opportunity to review a site plan and
address any potential negative impacts on a neighborhood and adjacent properties.
ZOA- 11- 02/Urban Agriculture
5. Farmers' Markets
The proposed ordinance would allow farmers' markets in any zone district as a primary or
accessory use. Markets would not be allowed as an accessory use on residential properties with a
single- or two - family home as the primary use. The proposed language requires a submittal with
parking and operational info to Community Development. This submittal may be part of the
typical business license review process since all markets are required to obtain a business license.
Under the proposed ordinance, farmer's markets would be subject to the following regulations:
• Signage: each market is permitted one temporary sign or banner up to 50 square feet in
size. The sign may only be up when the market is in operation.
• Hours of operation: in residential zone districts, hours of operation are restricted to lam
to sunset.
Parking: there are not specific off - street parking requirements. However, a proposed
market must provide parking information to Community Development so it is clear that
there is adequate parking provided, whether it be on -site, on an adjacent site, or on nearby
streets.
6. Produce Stands
The current zoning code allows for seasonal produce stands in Agricultural zone districts only.
The proposed amendments would allow temporary stands, for up to 6 months per year, in any
zone district. This means that homeowners with a home occupation could set up a stand, as could
any business or urban garden in the City. Produce stands do not require a submittal to
Community Development, but staff would be able to review each stand as part of the business
license review process. Produce stands would be subject to the following regulations:
• Products sold: produce or agricultural products. Products sold at a stand must have been
primarily grown, raised, or produced on the property where the stand is located.
• Seasonal operations: stands may be up for a maximum of 6 months each year and must
be removed/stored when not in use.
• Hours of operation: in residential zone districts, hours of operation are restricted to lam
to sunset.
• Parking: temporary off - street parking should be provided if there is not adequate on-
street parking nearby
• Signage: stands that are home occupations would have to meet home occupation
regulations, which allow up to 2 square feet of signage (plus additional square footage for
informational signs for parking, etc). All other stands would be allowed one sign up to 6
square feet in size and 5 feet tall.
Building Code Amendments — Hoop Houses
Staff has also received inquiries from community members interested in constructing temporary
greenhouses, or hoop houses, on properties used for growing. These temporary structures represent an
affordable way to extend the growing season. The building code currently exempts any structure under
120 square feet in size from building regulations, but a hoop house larger than 120 square feet must meet
the building code requirements for wind and snow loads. This can be difficult given the plastic
membrane structure that typically covers hoop houses. For this reason, the Building Division is working
on amendments to the building code that would exempt any hoop house 400 square feet or smaller from
the building code (as long as it is not used by the public and does not have electric or mechanical devices
ZOA- 11- 02/Urban Agriculture
inside), and to make the wind and snow load requirements more flexible for hoop houses sized 400 —
1,000 square feet. Staff anticipates that these building code changes would be approved by Council at a
time similar to the approval of the proposed zoning code ordinance (by the end of May).
RATIONALE FOR AMENDMENT
The proposed code amendment advances the City's goals, established in Envision Wheat Ridge, to
support urban agriculture and access to local food. Specifically, under policy Sustainable Future 4.2,
Envision Wheat Ridge recommends that the City revise its regulations to allow farmers' market, produce
stands, and urban agriculture. The proposed ordinance would fulfill this strategy and help the City to
implement its comprehensive plan.
Adoption of the proposed ordinance will allow a variety of urban agricultural uses in Wheat Ridge and
enable the community to pursue uses and activities, such as community gardens and farmers' markets,
which will positively impact health, the environment, and community development.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
"I move to recommend approval of the proposed ordinance amending Chapter 26 to support urban
agricultural uses and activities, with the condition that urban gardens are allowed as a special use on
residentially -zoned lots where the primary use is a single- or two - family home."
Exhibits:
1. Proposed Ordinance
2. Summary of Results from LiveWell Wheat Ridge Health Foods Assessment
ZOA- 11- 02/Urban Agriculture
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
COUNCIL BILL NO.
ORDINANCE NO.
Series 2011
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 26 TO SUPPORT
URBAN AGRICULTURAL USES AND ACTIVITIES.
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge is authorized by the
Home Rule Charter and the Colorado Constitution and statutes to enact and enforce
ordinances for the preservation of the public health, safety and welfare; and
WHEREAS, the City's Comprehensive Plan, Envision Wheat Ridge, establishes
that the City will work to promote access to healthy foods and support urban agriculture
according to Policy SF 4.2 Accessible Healthy Foods; and
WHEREAS, said plan includes the recommendation to "revise regulations to
allow farmers' markets, produce stands and urban agriculture" within the City; and
WHEREAS, the City Council of the City of Wheat Ridge wishes to amend the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws (the "Code ") to accomplish these goals.
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY
OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1: Section 26 -123, entitled "Definitions," is amended to review the definition of
"Building, accessory," to read:
Building, accessory. A subordinate building or portion of a main building the use of
which is incidental to that of the main building or use on the same lot. These accessory
buildings shall include, but are not limited to, private storage sheds, detached garages,
detached carports, membrane structures that meet current building code requirements,
chicken coops, gazebos, greenhouses and barns. An urban garden use may but is
not required to have a main building. Except for urban garden uses, An an
accessory building must be clearly subordinate to a main use building located on the
same lot and 4dditionalty, an accessory structure shall not be located on a vacant lot
devoid of a main building.
Section 2: Section 26 -123 of the Code is amended to include the following new
definitions in appropriate alphabetical order:
EXHIBIT 1
Section 3: The Table of Uses in Section 26 -204 of the Code are amended to read:
Table of Uses -- Residential
TABLE INSET:
Uses
Notes
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
1
1A
18
1C
2
2A
3
3A
One - family dwelling
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Two - family dwelling
P
P
P
P
Three - family
P
P
P
dwelling
Four - family
P
P
P
dwelling
Multifamily dwelling
P
P
Bed and breakfast
See § 26 -608
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
Uses
Notes
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
1
1A
18
1C
2
2A
3
3A
Church, parish
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
house
Day care home,
S
S
S
S
S
S
P
P
large
Electric
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
transmission
substation
Not permitted as an
accessory use on
properties where the
Farmers' markets'
Primary use is a single-
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
or two-family home.
Submittal to community
development department
required. See §26 -635
Foster care home
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Governmental and
quasi - governmental
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
buildings, fire
No outside storage
stations and public
utility buildings
Governmental and
quasi - governmental
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
buildings, fire
Outside storage
stations and public
utility buildings
Parking of
automobiles of
Shall be allowed only on
clients, patients or
lots containing
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
patrons of adjacent
nonresidential or quasi -
commercial or
public uses, subject to §
nonresidential uses
26 -501 CA
Parking of
Shall be allowed on lots
automobiles of
adjacent to business only
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
clients, patients or
if the business owner also
patrons of adjacent
owns the adjacent lot
commercial uses
Parks
Includes: noncommercial
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
Uses
Notes
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
1
1A
1B
1C
2
2A
3
3A
playgrounds or other
public recreation uses
See § 26 -636. Where
located on a_lot with a
Produce stands i
residential dwelling unit,
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
must meet home
occupation regulations
per § 26 -613.
Public or private golf
courses, country
Restaurants, lounges and
clubs or clubs
bars permitted as
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
operated for the
accessory to a public or
benefit of members
private golf course
only and not for
gain
Public and private
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
schools, colleges
and universities.
Residential group
See § 26 -612
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
home for children
Residential group
homes, nursing
homes, and
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
congregate care
See § 26 -612
facilities for 8 or
fewer elderly
persons
Residential group
homes, nursing
homes, or
See § 26 -612
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
congregate care
facility for 9 or more
elderly persons
Not permitted as an
accessory use on
properties where the
Urban gardens
primary use is a single-
"two,
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
P
or family home.
Submittal to community
development department
required. See § "26 - 6 37
4
TABLE INSET:
Accessory Uses For
Notes
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
R-
Uses
Notes
1
1A
IB
1C
2
2A
3
3A
Wind powered
Not in excess of 35 feet
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
S
electric generators
Plus their unweaned offspring
more than 3 dogs and 4 cats
Private swimming pools and
tennis courts and other
See § 26 -603
recreational facilities
TABLE INSET:
Accessory Uses For
Notes
Residential Districts
Bee keeping
See § 26 -603 and 607
Ancillary uses operating within
e.g.: Day care centers, scout meetings
a church's primary structure
Home occupations, including
See § 26 -613 and § 26 -636 for produce stands
produce stands
See § 26 -123; 605 (excludes keeping of swine); 606.
Accessory buildings shall not be located on a vacant
Accessory buildings
lot devoid of any primary or main building, except for
urban garden uses, which may or may not have a
primary or main building.
Not permitted as an accessory',, use on properties
Farmers markets
where the primary use is a single- or two- family
home. See § 26 -635
Household pets, limited to no
Plus their unweaned offspring
more than 3 dogs and 4 cats
Private swimming pools and
tennis courts and other
See § 26 -603
recreational facilities
Public and private
For satellite earth receiving stations, see § 26 -616 and
communications towers,
§ 26 -617
television or radio antennas
Public utility lines and poles,
irrigation channels, storm
drainage and water supply
facilities
Rooming and /or boarding of
On a contract basis for not less than 7 days
not more than 2 persons
Not permitted as an accessory ; use on properties
Urban gardens
where 'the primary use is a single- or two- family
home. See § 26 -637
Accessory Uses For
Notes
Residential Districts
2
Water towers or aboveground
Not in excess of 35 feet
reservoirs
S
Table of Uses -- Agricultural and Public Facilities
TABLE INSET:
Uses
Notes
A
2
PF
Subject to requirements set forth in
S
S
Bed - and - breakfast
§ 26 -608
Cemeteries and crematories
Not including funeral homes
S
S
S
S
Churches parish houses
S
S
Day care home, large
S
S
Day care center, large
S
S
Day care center, small
Provided that outside runs which are
Dog kennels, catteries,
adjacent to residentially zoned or
S
S
veterinary hospitals
used property are no closer than 25
feet to a side or rear lot line
Electric transmission
S
S
substations
PROHIBITED in A -1: The raising or
keeping of swine
General farming and raising or
INCLUDED in A -2: The keeping of
keeping of stock, bee keeping,
swine and /or potbellied pigs, Sus
P
P
poultry or small animals such as
Scrofa Vittatus, except such animals
rabbits or chinchillas
shall not be fed garbage
Submittal to `community
Farmers' markets
development department
R
R
P
required: See § 26 -635
M
Uses
Notes
A
2
PF
P
P
Foster care home
P
P
Fish hatcheries
Governmental and quasi-
No outside storage
governmental buildings, fire
P
P
P
stations and public utility
buildings
Governmental and quasi -
governmental buildings, fire
Outside storage
S
S
P
stations and public utility
buildings
Greenhouses and landscape
nurseries, including both
See § 26 -624
P
P
wholesale and retail sales of
related products
P
P
One - family dwelling
Includes noncommercial
P
P
Parks
playgrounds or other public
P
recreation uses
See § 26 -636. Where located on a
Produce stands
lot with a residential dwelling
P
P
P
unit, must meet home occupation
regulations per § 26 -613;
Public and private schools,
In public facility district only public
S
S
P
colleges, and universities
schools
Public or private golf courses,
Not including a private club which
S
S
country clubs or clubs operated
provides service customarily carried
for the benefit of members only
on as a business
and not for gain
Race track, fair grounds,
S
S
amusement resorts, heliports,
radio towers and stations
Residential group homes for 8 or
See § 26 -612
P
P
fewer elderly persons
Uses
Notes
A-
1
A-
2
PF
Residential group or nursing
stands
613 and, for produce stands, 1 _126-6,36
Detached private garage or carport
homes, or congregate care
See § 26-612
Household pets, limited to no more than
S
3 dogs and 4 cats
facilities for 9 or more elderly
Parking of equipment, implements,
machinery and/or large trucks, trailers
persons
support of agricultural and public
maintenance operations
Residential group homes for
See § 26-612
S
children
Provided that any structure housing
Riding academies and public
animals which is adjacent to a
P
P
stables
residentially zoned or used property
shall be no closer than 25 feet to a
side or rear lot line
Roadside for
Provided
lepated
P_
P_
stands
Fer nt mnrp than
operation
6 months
such stands are
no hnsq that. 30 feetfrom,an
for the farm
highway
per year sale ,of
nr m;;dp
street,
line"
that temporary
str
predu6ts predunpd
on the premises.
off
parking as provided
Submittal to community
Urban gardens
development department
P
P
P
required. See § 26-637
Wind-powered electric
S
S
generators not in excess of 35
feet.
TABLE INSET:
Agricultural and Public Facilities
Notes
Districts Accessory Uses
Home occupations, including produce
Meeting the definition and standards in § 26-
stands
613 and, for produce stands, 1 _126-6,36
Detached private garage or carport
Farmers markets
See, § (26 -635
Household pets, limited to no more than
Plus their unweaned offspring
3 dogs and 4 cats
Parking of equipment, implements,
machinery and/or large trucks, trailers
and semi-tractor trailers, when used in
support of agricultural and public
maintenance operations
Agricultural and Public Facilities
Notes
Districts Accessory Uses
RC
Private storage sheds, barns, animal
2
shelters or outbuildings
Private swimming pools and tennis
See § 26 -603 for related requirements
courts
Public utility lines and poles, irrigation
Includes other similar facilities such as
channels, storm drainage and water
electric transmission lines and poles
supply facilities
P
Includes other similar communications
Public and private communications
receiving or sending devices. None may
towers, television or radio antennas
exceed 35 feet in height, whether ground or
structurally mounted. For satellite earth
receiving stations, see § 26 -616 and 26 -617
Rooming and /or boarding for not more
On a contract basis for not less than 7 days
than 2 persons
Urban gardens
See §;26 -637
Water towers or above ground
Not in excess of 35 feet
reservoirs
Table of Uses -- Commercial and Industrial Districts
TABLE INSET:
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
1
In accordance with Wheat
P
P
P
Adult entertainment
Ridge Code of Laws, Chapter
establishments
3
P
P
P
P
Ambulance services
S
P
P
Amusement parks
Animal veterinary hospitals
With outside runs; no
P
P
and clinics
cremation
Where there are no outside
S
P
P
P
P
Animal veterinary hospitals
pens or runs for dogs; no
or clinics
cremation
Antique stores
In NC & RC Districts:
S
P
P
P
P
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
/
Provided that no more than
200 square feet of building
area shall be allocated to
repair
Apparel and accessory
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
stores
Appliance stores and
P
P
P
incidental service and
repair
Art galleries or studios
See Footnote 1
P
P
P
P
P
Assembly halls and
P
P
P
convention facilities
Auction houses
S
P
P
Auto service, repair and
See § 26 631
P
P
P
maintenance shops, minor
Auto service, repair and
See § 26 -631
S
P
P
maintenance shops, major
Automobile and light -duty
See § 26 -628
S
S
S
truck sales and rental
Automotive parts and
P
P
P
supplies sales
See Footnote 2. See § 26-
P
P
Bail bonds businesses
634 for distance
requirements.
Bakeries, retail
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
See § 26 -633
P
P
P
P
P
Banks, loan and finance
offices
Bed and breakfast homes
Subject to requirements set
P
P
P
P
P
forth in § 26 -608.
Bicycle stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
10
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
1
Blueprinting, photostatic
EXCLUDING: Large printing,
S
P
P
P
P
copying and other similar
publishing and /or book
reproduction services
binding establishments
See Footnote 1
Boat, recreational vehicle
S
S
S
and trailer sales, rentals and
See § 26 -628
service
Body art establishments
S
S
S
Book stores, stationery and
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
card stores
Building contractor's service
S
P
P
shop and storage yard
incidental to an
See § 26 -629
office /showroom principal
use.
Business machine or
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
computer stores
Butcher shops and food
EXCLUDING: Food
P
P
P
lockers
processing
Cabinet and woodworking
S
shops
Camera and photographic
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
service and supply stores
Candy, nut and
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
confectionery stores
Caretaker residence
Only one (1) unit for caretaker
P
P
P
P
or manager
S
Carpet cleaning and
fumigating
Carting, express, hauling or
S
storage yard
Car wash, automatic
S
P
P
11
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
Car wash, coin operated
S
P
P
Caterers
P
P
P
Day care center, large
P
P
P
Day care center, small
P
P
P
C -1, C -2 & I INCLUDE:
S
P
P
P
P
Clinics and offices for the
Residential facilities.
counseling and treatment of
NC & RC EXCLUDES:
psychological, social,
Residential facilities
marital, developmental or
ALL districts INCLUDE:
similar conditions, excluding
substance abuse clinics
Counseling and treatment for
alcoholism
Cold storage plant
P
P
Commercial machine shops
S
P
P
e.g.: YMCA's, YWCA's,
P
P
P
P
P
Community buildings
churches, libraries, parks,
museums, aquariums and art
galleries.
Construction and heavy
P
P
equipment sales, service,
See § 26 -629
rental and storage
Contractor's plant or storage
S
yard
Dairy products stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Day care center and
P
P
P
preschools, large
Day care center and
P
P
P
preschools, small
Department or variety
P
P
P
12
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
stores
Drug stores
P
P
P
Eating establishments, drive
S
S
S
S
S
through
Eating establishments, sit
S
P
P
P
P
down
Electric transmission and
S
S
S
S
S
public utility substations
Electrical motors and
S
armature regrinding shops
Electrical supplies and
EXCLUDING: Contractors
P
P
P
service
storage yards
Equipment rental
Subject to § 26 -628; in RC
P
P
P
P
District: Outside storage and
agencies
display prohibited
Exterminators
P
P
P
P
Farm equipment sales,
See § 26 -628
P
P
service and storage
Submittal to community
P
P
P
P
P
Farmers' markets
development department
required. See § 26 -635
Floral shops
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Furniture stores
P
P
P
Garden supply stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Gift, novelty or souvenir
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
stores
INCLUDES: Private clubs,
P
P
P
Golf courses
restaurants and lounges,
driving ranges, and those
uses commonly accepted as
13
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
accessory thereto when
located on the same
premises
Governmental and quasi-
P
P
P
P
P
governmental buildings and
No outside storage
offices, fire stations or public
utility buildings
Governmental and quasi-
S
S
S
P
P
governmental buildings and
Outside Storage
offices, fire stations or public
utility buildings
Greenhouses and
See § 26 -624
S
S
P
P
P
landscape nurseries, retail
Greenhouses and
S
P
P
landscape nurseries,
See § 26 -624
wholesale
Grocery or convenience
See Footnote 1
P
P
P
P
P
stores, no gas pumps
Grocery stores which may
S
S
S
P
P
include no more than 1
gasoline service island with
See Footnote 1
no more than 2 dispensing
pumps
Hair, nail and cosmetic
P
P
P
P
P
services
Hardware stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Hobby and craft stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Home furnishing stores
P
P
P
Home improvements
P
P
P
supply stores
Hotels or motels for
There shall be 1,000 square
S
S
S
transient occupancy.
feet of gross lot area for each
unit
14
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
P
P
Ice plants
Indoor amusement and
e.g.: Roller rinks, bowling
P
P
P
alleys, arcades and similar
recreational enterprises
uses
PROHIBITED: Outdoor flea
P
P
P
Indoor flea markets
markets
S
P
P
P
P
Interior decorating shops
S
S
S
Itinerant sales
See § 26 -630
S
P
P
P
P
Jewelry stores
See Footnote 1
S
Kennels
Laundry and dry cleaning
S
S
P
P
P
shops
Laundry and dry cleaning
P
P
P
P
P
pick up stations
Leather goods and luggage
P
P
P
stores
P
P
P
Linen supply
P
P
P
Liquor stores
P
P
P
P
P
Locksmith shops
Unenclosed storage of any
P
P
P
Lumber yards and building
materials shall be screened
supply stores
from view from adjacent
properties and streets
PROVIDED: An antidote
S
Manufacture of vaccines,
exists and is readily available
serums and toxins
for such vaccine, serums or
toxins; and approval of such
15
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
manufacture is received from
the state department of health
and the county health
department
Manufacturing, processing,
See § 26 -505; § 26 -631 and §
P
P
assembly, or light industrial
26 -123, definitions
operations
Manufacturing, fabrication
S
and /or processing of
concrete products
See Chapter 11, Article 10
P
P
P
P
P
Massage therapist
Code of Laws for additional
restrictions
See Chapter 11, Article 10
P
P
P
P
P
Massage therapy center
Code of Laws for additional
restriction
Meat, poultry or seafood
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
stores
Medical and dental offices,
P
P
P
P
P
clinics or laboratories,
Pharmacies and optical
excluding substance abuse
stores are accessory use
clinics
Mini - warehouses for inside
P
P
storage
Mobile or modular homes or
See § 26 -628
S
S
building sales
Mortuaries and crematories
S
S
S
Motor fueling stations
S
P
P
Motorcycle sales and
See § 26 -628
P
P
P
service
Music stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Newsstands
For the sale of newspapers,
P
P
P
P
P
magazines, etc.
16
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
Office supply stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Offices: General
P
P
P
P
P
administrative, business and
professional offices
Optical stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Outdoor amusement
S
P
P
facilities
Paint and wallpaper stores
See Footnote 1
P
P
P
P
Parking of automobiles of
P
P
P
P
P
clients, patients or patrons
Subject to § 26 -501 CA
of adjacent commercial or
nonresidential uses
Parking of not more than 3
See § 26 -619; § 26 -123,
S
S
S
commercial truck - tractors
definitions
and /or semi - trailers
When in conformance with
the parking design standards
set forth in § 26 -501
It is not intended that such
parking limitations shall apply
to pickup and delivery trucks
normally associated with
business operations
S
Pawn shops
Pet stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
S
P
P
P
P
Pharmacies
Picture framing shops
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Plumbing and heating
EXCLUDING: Outdoor
P
P
P
supply stores and shops
storage yards
17
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
Printing, engraving and
S
other related production
processes
Private clubs, social clubs,
P
P
P
bingo parlors and similar
uses
Produce stands
See § 26 -636
P
P
P
P
P
Psychic advisors and similar
S
S
S
P
uses
Research laboratories,
P
P
offices and other facilities for
research
Residential group and
P
P
P
P
P
nursing homes and
congregate care facilities for
8 or fewer elderly persons
Residential group and
S
S
S
nursing homes and
congregate care facilities for
9 or more elderly persons
Residential group home for
S
S
S
children
Such residential uses may be
P
P
P
P
P
Residential uses in
extended, enlarged, and /or
existence on 3/11/97
reconstructed so long as no
additional dwelling units are
created
Residential uses in
See § 26 -626
P
P
P
P
P
commercial zones
Rooming and
S
S
P
P
P
boardinghouses
RV, boat, trailer and travel
See § 26 -628
P
P
trailer storage
Sales, repair, rental and
P
P
servicing of any commodity
that the manufacture,
18
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
/
fabrication, processing or
sale of which is permitted in
the district
Schools for industrial or
S
S
business training, including
Conducted entirely within an
vocational trade or
enclosed building
professional schools
INCLUDES: Those uses
S
S
S
P
P
Schools: public; private
commonly accepted as
colleges and universities
necessary thereto when
located on the same
premises
Shoe repair shops
P
P
P
P
P
Shoe stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Shops for custom work or
P
P
for making articles,
materials or commodities to
See § 26 -631; § 26 -632
be sold at retail on the
premises
In accordance with Wheat
P
P
P
Social club
Ridge Code of Laws, Chapter
11, Article XI
Sporting goods stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Stone cutting or polishing
P
P
works
Studio for professional work
P
P
P
P
P
or teaching of fine arts,
photography, music, drama
ordance
Substance abuse clinics
S
S
P
Tailor, dressmaking or
P
P
P
P
P
clothing alteration shops
19
Uses
Notes
NC
RC
2
I
Taverns, night clubs,
P
P
P
lounges, private clubs and
bars
Television, radio, small
S
P
P
P
P
appliance repair and service
See Footnote 1
shops
Temporary Christmas tree,
P
P
P
P
produce and bedding plant
See § 26 -627
sales lots
Theatres, indoor
P
P
P
Tobacco stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Toy stores
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Transit station, public or
S
S
S
private
Submittal to community
P
P
P
P
P
Urban gardens
development department
required. See § 26 -637
Upholstery shops
P
P
P
Video rentals
See Footnote 1
S
P
P
P
P
Warehousing and outside
See § 26 -631
P
P
storage
Maximum 75% total area as
S
P
P
Warehouse /office
warehouse; minimum 25% as
total area as office
Watch and jewelry repair
P
P
P
P
P
shops
Woodworking or carpentry
S
P
P
shops for the making of
articles for sale upon the
See § 26 -632
premises, such as cabinets
or custom furniture
20
Footnote:
1 The amount of building space devoted to retail use is limited to 5,000 square feet in
NC and RC Districts.
2 In addition to being allowed as a Permitted Principal Use in the C -2 and I zone
districts, bail bonds businesses may be permitted in Planned Industrial Development
districts if approved as part of an Outline Development Plan (ODP) and in conformance
with the requirements of Code section 26 -634.
TABLE INSET:
Commercial and Industrial District Accessory
Notes
Uses
Accessory buildings and structures
See § 26 -625
Electric transmission or other public utility
lines and poles, irrigation channels, storm
drainage and water supply facilities
Farmers' markets
See §
Primarily for the occupants of a building
Food services
containing a permitted use when
located within the same building
Produce stands
See § 26 -636
Residential uses in commercial zones
See § 26 -626
Outside storage or display
See § 26 -631
Urban gardens
See § 26 -637
Key:
P = Permitted Principal Uses
S = Special Uses
Section 4: Section 26 -502 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26 -502. Landscaping requirements.
A. Landscaping defined: A combination of living plants, such as trees, shrubs, vines,
groundcover, flowers, vegetable plants, sod or grass; and may include natural
features, such as rock, stone and bark; and structural features, including, but not limited
to, fountains, reflecting pools, art work, screen walls, fences and benches. Uncontrolled
weeds shall not be considered as landscaping; however, maintained natural grasses
and natural flowers may be considered as landscaping.
Sidewalks, whether paved or gravel, which serve as functional links between parking
areas and main structures, or which serve as general public access routes around a
main structure, or between a main structure and a public street or alley, shall not be
counted as landscaping. Other sidewalks or paths which serve as casual access to or
through landscape areas may be counted a nonliving landscape features.
21
Section 5: Section 26 -613 of the Code is amended to read
Sec. 26 -613. Home occupations.
A. Home occupation. Home occupations are permitted as accessory uses to any
conforming (as to use) residential dwelling; provided, however, that the following
requirements are met:
1. Such use shall be conducted entirely within a dwelling or accessory structure
except for sales of plants,-and produce, or other agricultural products grown,
raised, or produced on the premises and carried on only by the inhabitants
living there, with the exception that should the operator be substantially,
physically handicapped a nonresident may be employed to assist the operator in
his work to the extent he requires it to make up for his physical handicap.
2. Not more than one (1) employee may live off - premises.
3. Such use shall be clearly incidental and secondary to the use of the dwelling
for dwelling purposes and shall not change the character thereof.
4. The total area used for said purposes shall not exceed twenty -five (25)
percent of the gross floor area of the user's dwelling unit.
5. N s: an a d ver ti s i a the he Me e nati sh t,,.......matt„a Each
to 2
See
11. Home occupations are limited to the following business or commercial
activities:
a. Craft work, such as the making of pottery, jewelry or dolls, flower
arranging, smithing and woodworking.
b. Garment work, such as tailoring, dressmaking, millinery work, ironing and
garment repair.
c. Office uses, such as office uses for door -to -door, home party and
telephone solicitation sales, investment counseling, typing, notary public,
travel services, surveyors, physicians, dentists, lawyers, accountants,
architects, engineers and other similar services.
d. Repair services for electronics, small appliances, and mechanical
devices, bicycles and upholstery.
e. Tutoring, music lessons, dance lessons, gymnastics lessons, swim
lessons and tennis lessons.
f. Artistic endeavors, such as art studios, portrait studios, photography
studios, writing and lithography.
g. Garage sales, not to exceed four (4) three -day periods, which need not be
consecutive, per calendar year.
22
h. Hair care services carried on by only one (1) inhabitant of the dwelling. No
other employee shall be permitted.
i. Small day care home.
j. Sales directly related but merely ancillary to the primary home occupation,
such as:
(1) Sale of hair care products by a beautician or barber.
(2) Sale of accompaniment items, such as neckties, bows, ribbons or
belts for a tailor or dressmaker.
(3) Sale of component parts or accessories used in repair services for
electronics, small appliances, bicycles, etc.
(4) Supplies related to a class, course of instruction, or lessons
conducted on the site.
(5) Sale of artistic or craft works which were created on the site, such as
Section 6: Sections 26 -635, 26 -636, and 26 -637 are hereby added to Article VI.
Supplementary Regulations:
Section 26 -635 Farmers' markets.
Farmers' market uses, as defined in Section 26 -123 and where allowed per
Section 26 -204, shall comply with the following regulations.
A. Temporary canopies: temporary canopies may be allowed in order to
provide protection from the elements for both the operators and products.
23
A. location: produce stands must be located on private property,.
D. Hours of operation: in residential zone districts, hours of operation shall be
restricted from 7 a.m. to sunset.
E
F. ".
24
are
ing must be
;omply with
partment: a submittal with a site
n including hours and days of
,view and approval by the
Section 7: The Table of Uses in Section 26 -1111 of the Code are amended to read:
Permitted Uses
Use Group
MU -C
MU -C
Interstate
MU -C TOD
MU -N
Residential
Assisted living facility
P
P
P
P
Dwelling, single detached
NP
NP
NP
P
Dwelling, single attached
P
P
P
P
Dwelling, duplex
P
NP
NP
P
Dwelling, multiple
P
P
P
P
Dwelling, live /work
P
P
P
P
Foster care home
NP
NP
NP
P
Residential group home
P
P
P
P
Public, Civic, and Institutional'
25
Permitted Uses
Use Group
MU -C
MU -C
MU -C TOD
MU -N
Interstate
Community buildings and cultural
facilities, including libraries,
P
P
P
P
museums, and art galleries
Hospital
C
C
C
NP
Parks, open space, playgrounds,
and plazas
P
P
P
P
Place of worship
P
P
P
P
Public uses and buildings
P
P
P
P
Recreation facilities, indoor and
P
P
P
P
outdoor
Schools, public and private;
colleges, universities, and trade
P
P
P
P
schools
Utilities, major
NP
NP
NP
NP
Utilities, minor
P
P
P
P
Urban gardens (Submittal
required to community
development department. See
P
P
P
P
§26 -637)
Transit stations, public or private
C
C
C
C
Commercial Services and Retail
Adult entertainment
NP
NP
NP
NP
Animal daycare, indoor with no
P
P
P
P
outdoor runs or pens
Bail bonds (per §26 -634)
C
C
NP
NP
Banks and financial institutions,
no drive - through or drive -up
P
P
P
P
Banks and financial institutions,
C
P
C
C
with drive - through or drive -up
Bars, taverns, and night clubs
P
P
P
P
Bed and breakfast
P
P
P
P
Car washes
NP
C
NP
NP
Day care center, child and adult
P
P
P
P
Drive -up or drive - through uses
C
P
C
C
(per §26- 1106.E)
Eating establishment, sit down
P
P
P
P
Eating establishment, drive-
C
P
C
C
through or drive -up
Fast food eating establishment,
drive - through or drive -up
C
P
C
C
Motor fueling stations
C
C
NP
C
26
Permitted Uses
Use Group
MU -C
MU -C
MU -C TOD
MU -N
Interstate
Motor vehicles sales, outdoor
NP
NP
NP
NP
display
Motor vehicle sales, indoor display
P
P
C
C
Outdoor storage
NP
NP
NP
NP
Pawn brokers
NP
NP
NP
NP
Personal services
P
P
P
P
Photocopying and printing
P
P
P
P
Produce stands (see §26 -636
and §26-613 for home
P
P
P
P
occupations)'
Recreation facilities, commercial
P
P
P
P
Repair, rental and servicing of
C
P
C
C
automobiles, no outdoor storage
Retail sales — up to 20,000 gsf for
P
P
P
P
one tenant space
Retail sales — up to 60,000 gsf for
P
P
C
C
one tenant space
Retail sales — over 60,000 gsf for
C
C
NP
NP
one tenant space
Urban gardens (Submittal
required to community
P
P
P
P
development department. See
§26 -637)
Veterinary clinics and hospitals,
P
P
P
P
no outdoor runs or pens
Hospitality and Entertainment
Art studios and galleries
P
P
P
P
Hotels, motels, and extended stay
P
P
P
P
lodging
Studios, including art, music,
dance, television and radio
P
P
P
P
broadcasting stations
Theaters
P
P
P
P
Office and Industrial
Medical and dental clinics
P
P
P
P
Offices
P
P
P
P
Office - warehouse, no outdoor
C
C
C
NP
storage
Outdoor storage
NP
NP
NP
NP
Restricted light industrial
C
C
C
NP
27
Permitted Uses
Use Group
MU -C
MU -C
Interstate
MU -C TOD
MU -N
Wholesale
C
C
C
C
Ancillary Uses
Parking facilities
P
P
P
P
Temporary Uses
Special events, including festivals
and farmers markets. For
farmers' markets, see §' 26 -635
P
P
P
P
Key: P = Permitted C = Conditional Use (see § 26 -1117) NP = Not Permitted
Section 8: Table 1 in Section 26 -709 of the Code is amended to include the following
sign types:
era 3��i•�y�M
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN RESIDENTIAL, AGRICULTURAL, AND PUBLIC FACILITIES ZONES
(R -1, R -1A, R -1 B, R -1 C, R -2, R -2A, R -3, R -3A, A -1, A -2, PF)
TYPE
PERMIT
MAXIMUM
MAXIMUM
MINIMUM
OTHER
OF
ALLOWED
REQUIRED
SIZE AND
NUMBER
SETBACK
REQUIREMENTS
SIGN
HEIGHT PER
SIGN
13. Miscellaneous
May not be
illuminated. May
only be on
F
Farmers'
Yes
No larger
1 per
display when the
No
than 50
farmers'
None
market is in
market
square feet.
market
operation. See §
sign,
26 -635
Where
produce
stand is ?a
home
May not be
No for
occupation,
illuminated. May
r
temporary
the sign
only be on
Produce
freestanding
must meet
1 per
display during
stand
Yes:
Signs- Yes
requirements
stand
5 feet
months when the
sign
for
for Home
produce stand is
permanent
Occupation
operational See
wall signs
signs in f. All
§ 26 -636
other
produce
stands may
have one
28
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN RESIDENTIAL, AGRICULTURAL, AND PUBLIC FACILITIES ZONES
(R -1, R -1 A, R -1B, R -1C, R -2, R -2A, R -3, R -3A, A -1, A -2, PF)
TYPE
PERMIT
MAXIMUM
MAXIMUM
MINIMUM
OTHER
OF
ALLOWED
REQUIRED
SIZE AND
NUMBER
SETBACK
REQUIREMENTS
SIGN
REQUIRED
HEIGHT PER
NUMBER
REQUIREMENTS
SIGN
SIGN
May not be
sign up to 6
illuminated. May
q.
square feet
No larger
only be on display
Farmers'
Yes
in size and
than 50
1 per
when the market is
market
up to 5 feet
square
farmers'
None
in o eration. See
P
signs
in height.
feet..
market
26 -635
Maximum
May not bg
size of 6
Maximum
s. Urban
r.
square feet
size of 6
May not be
garden
Yes
Yes
and
1
5 feet
illuminated. See
sign
stand
maximum
feet and
stand
§ 26 -637
when the produce
sign
height of 5
maximum
stand is
feet
height of 5
Section 9: Table 1 in Section 26 -710 of the Code is amended to include the following
sign types:
TABLE INSET:
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL AND MIXED USE DISTRICTS
INC, RC, C -1, C -2, 1)
MAXIMUM
TYPE OF
ALLOWED
PERMIT
SIZE AND
HEIGHT
MAXIMUM
MINIMUM
SETBACK
OTHER
SIGN
REQUIRED
PER SIGN
NUMBER
REQUIREMENTS
13. Miscellaneous
May not be
illuminated. May
q.
No larger
only be on display
Farmers'
Yes
than 50
1 per
when the market is
market
No
square
farmers'
None
in o eration. See
P
signs
feet..
market
26 -635
May not bg
No for
Maximum
illuminated. May
r.
temporary
size of 6
only be on display
Produce
Yes
freestanding
square
1 per
5 feet
during months
stand
signs. Yes
feet and
stand
when the produce
sign
for
maximum
stand is
permanent
height of 5
operational. See
G'
TABLE 1. SIGN STANDARDS IN COMMERCIAL, INDUSTRIAL AND MIXED USE DISTRICTS
(NC, RC, C -1, C -2, I)
MAXIMUM
SIZE AND
MINIMUM
TYPE OF
ALLOWED
PERMIT
HEIGHT
MAXIMUM
SETBACK
OTHER
SIGN
REQUIRED
NUMBER
REQUIREMENTS
PER SIGN
wall signs.
feet.
26 -636
Maximum
size i of 6
s. Urban
square
May not be
garden
Yes
Yes
feet and
1
5feet
illuminated. See ',§
sign
maximum
26 -637
height of 5
feet
Section 10: Safety Clause The City Council hereby finds, determines, and declares
that this Ordinance is promulgated under the general police power of the City of Wheat
Ridge, that it is promulgated for the health, safety and welfare of the public and that this
Ordinance is necessary for the preservation of health and safety and for the protection
of public convenience and welfare. The City Council further determines that the
Ordinance bears a rational relation to the proper legislative object sought to be attained.
Section 11: Severability; Conflicting Ordinances Repealed If any section,
subsection or clause of the ordinance shall be deemed to be unconstitutional or
otherwise invalid, the validity of the remaining sections, subsections and clauses shall
not be affected thereby. All other ordinances or parts of the ordinances in conflict with
the provisions of this ordinance are hereby repealed.
Section 12: Effective Date This Ordinance shall take effect fifteen days after final
publication, as provided by Section 5.11 of the Charter.
INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of _ to _ on
this day of , 2011, ordered published with Public Hearing and
consideration of final passage set for Monday, 2011 at 7:00 p.m., in the
Council Chambers, 7500 West 29 Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado, and that it takes
effect 15 days after final publication
READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by
a vote of to , this th day of , 2011.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this day of , 2011.
Jerry DiTullio, Mayor
30
ATTEST:
Michael Snow, City Clerk
Approved As To Form
Gerald E. Dahl, City Attorney
First Publication:
Second Publication:
Wheat Ridge Transcript
Effective Date:
31
+tea,
;?icH'
r �(��� y
LiveWe
0Rk�
April 21, 2011
Planning Commission
City of Wheat Ridge
7500 W 29 Avenue
1" floor
Wheat Ridge, CO 80033
Dear Wheat Ridge Planning Commissioners
LiveWell Wheat Ridge is a community movement funded by LiveWell Colorado working to
reduce and prevent obesity for better health outcomes. Emerging best practices show that we
positively impact food consumption choices by increasing access to healthy foods. To this end,
LiveWell Wheat Ridge is involved in a myriad of approaches to increase nutritional food
consumption in our community and to grow our markets in Wheat Ridge.
In the fall of 2010, LiveWell Wheat Ridge partnered with the Wheat Ridge Access to Fresh Fruit
and Vegetables Task Force, Jefferson Conservation District and CREA Results to administer the
Wheat Ridge Healthy Food Assessment. Modeled after similar healthy food assessments in the
country, this assessment surveyed over 200 respondents on questions related to access and
barriers to growing, purchasing and consuming fresh fruit and vegetables. Using an online and
paper survey in English and Spanish, and by partnering with older adults and bilingual and
bicultural outreach workers, we over - sampled diverse socioeconomic segments of our
community. In this report, we captured important information about ways to reduce barriers tc
accessing fresh fruit and vegetables, increase growing opportunities, expand local markets, and
integrate local produce into our food systems.
Because we need to use a multifaceted systems approach to solving healthy food access issues
and grow our markets, we hope this report provides valuable information to the Planning
Commission, as well as all sectors of our community, to support informed policy making,
innovate our programming and provide opportunities for economic growth in Wheat Ridge.
Sincerely,
Molly Hanson
LiveWell Wheat Ridge Coordinator
EXHIBIT 2
LiveWell
Wheat Ridge
LiveWell Wheat Ridge
(LWWR), a community initia-
tive funded by LiveWell Colo-
rado, advocates healthy eating
and active living (HEAL) poli-
cies and infrastructure im-
provements in Wheat Ridge.
LWWR is working with city
policymakers, staff and resi-
dents to incorporate plans for
increasing access to healthy
foods, particularly for lower in-
come and Latino residents of
Wheat Ridge.
In partnership with the Jeffer-
son Conservation District and
CREA Results, a community -
based outreach organization,
LWWR conducted a community
needs assessment in the fall of
2010 of access to fresh fruits
and vegetables and locally
grown foods. A 25 -item sur-
vey in English and Spanish
was administered online and
in hardcopy to Wheat Ridge
residents and nonresidents to
gather information on con-
sumption patterns, attitudes
and barriers to accessing fresh
foods. Over two hundred re-
spondents completed the sur-
vey. For the purposes of this
report, we have confined our
analysis to the 135 Wheat
Ridge residents who com-
pleted the survey.
WHAT RESIDENTS
REPORT
PP g '" y
Sho m
The vast majority (over 90 %) of respon-
dents report going to grocery stores to
get their fresh fruits and vegetables fib;
regardless of the time of year and most r
use their own cars to get there. P',
If ,
Almost half (47 %) of the respondents
get their produce at farmers' markets,
fruit and vegetable stands or gardens
during the summer. A far greater per-
centage of Whites (69 %) go to these lo-
cations compared to Latinos (20 %).
Demographic Profile of
Survey Respondents
n age = 46 years
seniors (65 years
older)
$15,000- $29,000
$30,000- $49,000
$50,000- $99,000
>$100,000
Chose not to
What to Eat
A majority (72 %) of respondents
report freshness as an important
aspect of deciding which fruits
and vegetables to eat, followed by
62% who report cost as impor-
tant, 47% who report healthiness
as important and 43% who report
taste as important.
®DS AND FUTURE
ITY OF WHEAT Page
Farmers' Markets
Almost half (46 %) of the respondents go to the
Wheat Ridge Farmers' Market. Most (over
70 %) buy fruits and vegetables. A quarter buy
other food items, a quarter don't buy anything
and 5% buy flowers or plants. Sixty -nine per -
cent of Latinos, 45% of males and 32% of lower
income respondents who go to the Wheat Ridge
Farmers' Market do not buy anything com-
pared to only 9% of Whites who do not buy any -
thing.
Twenty -six percent of the respondents (35
people) report going outside of Wheat Ridge to
another farmers' market. Reasons include:
more convenient locations, better days of the
week, more convenient hours or better produce
selection at the other markets. A very small
percentage (3 %) report that they go to another
market because the produce at the market is
grown locally in that jurisdiction.
This fact sheet was designed and
RESE
created by
� C[ ff�� A♦ t✓�+
RCI
Center for Research Strategies
S RATEG
www.ersllc.org
_._. ... _..
Fifty -four percent of respondents, or 73 peo-
ple, do not go to the Wheat Ridge Famers' Mar-
ket.
Why Don't People Go to the Farmers' Market?
(73 Respondents)
III � `,mss
Other reasons for not going to the Wheat
Ridge Farmers' Market reported by only a few
respondents include: prefer going to grocery
store, only eat organic, grow my own, not inter-
ested, don't think about it, hard to walk
around or find parking, forget because market
open only one day a week, part of Community
Supported Agriculture.
3
a
m�
a
ES E
`o
m
a
9
a
m
m
sg
a
Reasons for Visiting Farmers' Markets Outside of Wheat Ridge
Why do you patron a farmers' market outside of Wheat Ridge?
Location Day of the Market
Hours Better Produce Selection
Produce Grown in that Jurisdiction
¢0
°ac ` °
\ �. 5 \O c
r �a es e \�'
aaA ° I r
�
a'i`OCa
3�
o°
�
J oca�o
Ooh~
O o
O Qa
Other reasons for not going to the Wheat
Ridge Farmers' Market reported by only a few
respondents include: prefer going to grocery
store, only eat organic, grow my own, not inter-
ested, don't think about it, hard to walk
around or find parking, forget because market
open only one day a week, part of Community
Supported Agriculture.
3
a
m�
a
ES E
`o
m
a
9
a
m
m
sg
a
Reasons for Visiting Farmers' Markets Outside of Wheat Ridge
Why do you patron a farmers' market outside of Wheat Ridge?
Location Day of the Market
Hours Better Produce Selection
Produce Grown in that Jurisdiction
'., Page 3
Gardening at Home
Just over half of respondents (52 %) garden at home. Seventy percent grow vegetables, 54%
grow flowers, 49% grow spices and herbs and 37% grow fruit. Forty -eight percent, or 65 people,
do not grow at home. The most common reasons for not growing at home are shown in the
graph below. Additional reasons noted by a few respondents include: living in an apartment, no
desire, having moved or contending with squirrels. Of the 30 respondents who report not hav-
ing enough space to garden, only 5 are interested in renting space at the Wheat Ridge commu-
nity garden called the Happiness Garden.
Why Don't People Grow at Home?
(6S Respondents)
N
C
d
'O
C
O
4
d
C
0
Locally Grown Foods
Wheat Ridge residents are interested
in having access to locally grown foods.
Respondents report that they think it is
important for markets to carry locally
grown foods, that they would be more
likely to go to a restaurant if it served
locally grown food, that they would be
interested in buying produce from a local
farmer and that they would consider
joining a local food co -op grocery store
that sells local produce.
Thirty -one percent report they want
more information about buying from a
local farmer. Twenty -four percent want
more information about food co -ops.
N 100%
c m
v�
c m
o c
CL
` y 50%
z �
o
Q 0%
Locally Grown Foods
m Important for Wheat Ridge food markets to carry locally grown produce
• More likely to go to a Wheat Ridge restaurant using locally grown food
• Willing to pay more for locally grown foods
® Interested in buying produce from a local farmer and having it delivered
to their homes
Want to be part of a food co -op grocery store to access more locally
grown products
Dor'thave Don't have Don't like to Nota' lowed Can'tafford
soace time garden to plant to plant
Getting Involved
Wheat Ridge residents want to get in-
volved and they want more information.
Almost half (46 %) of the respondents re-
port they are interested in coming to a
community event that raises awareness
of the importance of locally grown pro -
duce. A quarter (25 %) report they would
like to join the Fresh Fruits and Vegeta-
bles Task Force. Only 3 respondents re-
port they had ever called the City of
Wheat Ridge about growing or selling
fruits and vegetables, farming, compost -
ing or other gardening questions.
Message to Policymakers
Respondents also report they would like more in-
formation about urban agriculture.
Most residents buy their produce at grocery stores, but almost 50% also buy at farmers' markets.
Should the city encourage more grocery and produce stores to locate in Wheat Ridge?
Should the city partner to create additional farmers' markets, perhaps on a weehend day, to en-
courage greater participation?
Almost 75% of the respondent group rates freshness of produce as an important aspect of considering what fruits
and vegetables to buy. Two - thirds are sensitive to cost.
What can be done to ensure freshness ofproduce?
How can we ensure produce is affordable?
Not quite half of the respondent group patronizes the Wheat Ridge Famers' Market. When asked why they don't
go, reasons include cost, inconvenient time, not having transportation and not knowing where the market is.
How do we ensure produce is affordable at the Wheat Ridge Farmers'Market?
How do we do a betterjob of marketing the Wheat Ridge Farmers'Market?
Half of the respondents grow gardens at home. Half do not. Individuals surveyed don't have space or time to
grow at home. Additionally, those surveyed did not want to rent space at the Wheat Ridge community garden.
Should the city use resources, such as city -owned land or funding, to help create new community
gardens?
How do we support home gardening in Wheat Ridge?
Residents want locally grown foods to be available, not only to prepare and consume at home, but to eat at local
restaurants.
How can more locally grown produce by available in Wheat Ridge?
Are there policies or incentives that the city could provide to encourage restaurants to use local
produce?
For more information, please contact Molly Hanson, LiveWell Wheat Ridge Coordinator, at
mhanson @jeffco.us.
Funding for this report is provided by LiveWell Colorado
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE
NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING
BEFORE PLANNING COMMISSION
ON PROPOSED ZONING CODE AMENDMENT
NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that the Wheat Ridge Planning Commission will conduct
a Public Hearing on April 21, 2011 at 7:00 p.m. in the City Council Chambers,
Municipal Building at 7500 West 29 Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado, to consider Case
No. ZOA- 11 -02, amendments to Chapter 26, Zoning & Development Code, concerning
urban agriculture. All interested citizens are invited to speak at the Public Hearing or
submit written comments.
The proposed ordinance is available in electronic form on the City's official website,
www.ci.wheatridg e.co.us Legal Notices. Copies are also available in printed form in the
Community Development Department.
Published: Wheat Ridge Transcript, April 14, 2011
City of
COMM Wheatld g e
- UNITy DEVELOPMENT
City of Wheat Ridge Municipal Building 7500 W. 29 °i Ave. Wheat Ridge, CO 80033 -8001 P: 303.235.2846 F:
303.235.2857
To: Members of the Access to Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Task Force
Date: March 18, 2011
Re: Response to Proposed Code Amendments Regarding Urban Agriculture
From: Sarah Showalter, Planner Il, City of Wheat Ridge
Thank you for your input on the proposed zoning code amendments related to urban
agriculture. Please find responses and clarifications to your comments below, organized
by topic.
Urban Gardens
Where permitted:
o In response to the request for clarification about whether urban gardens
would be allowed on residentially -zoned lots where the primary use is multi-
family (3 units or more): the code amendments as drafted would allow urban
gardens on residential lots where the primary use is a residence with 3 units
or more. If there is a single - family home or duplex then the only option
would be for a home garden. Please note, however, that there is no restriction
on the size of the home garden and residents would be allowed to sell
whatever they are growing in their home garden —on -site, at another location,
or directly to a restaurant, store, etc.
o In response to your question about whether a market garden would be
allowed on a residentially -zoned lot (such as R -3) with a single family home,
there may be some confusion based on what one means by the term "market
garden." Staff included the reference to a market garden in the urban garden
definition to clarify that for -profit shared garden models (not just non -profit
community gardens) are allowed under this category. Homeowners on
residential lots with single family homes are allowed to grow in as large an
area as they want, and to sell whatever they grow (either on -site or to another
vendor). The type of market garden that would not be allowed on a
residential lot with a single- or two- family lot is one with a formal
organization or business running the garden in which there are more growers
than the homeowners on that property. Staff modified the definition of urban
garden slightly to clarify this, stating that an urban garden is "A shared
garden use in which an area of land is managed by a group of individuals to
grow and harvest crops and /or non -food ornamental crops . . ."
o Staff appreciates your comments that there may be cases where it would be
appropriate to allow urban gardens on residential lots where the primary use
is a single- or two - family home. Based on study sessions with Planning
Commission and City Council, there is some concern about allowing
1 %ll NN.mll Ilea tridge.co.us
community gardens, market gardens, and similar uses that could generate a
fair amount of traffic, noise, and other impacts in low- density residential
settings. The intent behind this proposal is to allow for community gardens,
market gardens, and CSAs in residential areas on vacant lots or lots that have
a primary use such as a church, school, or apartment building. For lots with a
single- or two - family use, the homeowner(s) would be allowed to grow
plants and crops on their property — as well as sell what they grow — but not
operate a shared garden or farm with a formal organizing structure and with
several members /participants who would access the property regularly. Staff
does recognize that there could be situations in which an urban garden use on
a residential lot with a single- or two - family home might be appropriate,
especially for larger properties, and we have thought of two potential
solutions:
1) Allow urban gardens on residential lots with single- or two - family
lots as long as the lot is over a certain size (as suggested in your
comments). The difficulty with this approach is determining what the
appropriate minimum lot size should be. For example, should it apply
to any residential lot 1 acre or larger? 3 acres or larger?
2) Allow urban gardens on residential lots with single- or two - family
lots as a special use. Special uses are those that require extra review
due to additional impacts on an area. They require the property owner
to obtain a Special Use Pen prior to operating the use. There is an
application fee of $300 + $300 /acre and the process takes anywhere
from 2 -4 months. The process starts administratively but, if legitimate
comments in opposition to the proposed use are received during the
public noticing period, the case can go to City Council for final
approval.
Because the issue of whether to allow urban gardens on residential properties with
one- and two - family homes is a sensitive policy issue, staff is proceeding with the
ordinance as written. However, we plan to raise this issue with the two potential
solutions above to Planning Commission at the public hearing on Thursday, April
7` Planning Commission could condition their approval of the ordinance with one
of the above solutions. We encourage you to attend the meeting on April 7 to testify
and /or listen to the discussion on this topic.
Parking:
• In response to the request for clarification about on -site parking: yes, on -site
parking is the same thing as off - street parking.
• When Community Development staff reviews a submittal for a proposed
urban garden, the assessment of whether there is adequate parking will be
based on both the size of the garden and the number of plots /anticipated
users. After looking comprehensively at other jurisdictions' zoning codes, as
well as several operating community gardens in the metro area, staff found
that it was rare to have a set formula or ratio for off - street parking at garden
sites. Thus we opted for the route of assessing each site individually based on
its size and existing adjacent parking areas, including on- street parking.
Hours of Operation:
o We appreciated your comment about "sunrise" being a bit early for adjacent
residents. The proposed language has been revised to 7 am. This is the typical
time that construction is allowed to occur in residential neighborhoods.
Lighting:
o Planning Commission directed staff to ensure that there is no exterior lighting
on at gardens after sundown in residential neighborhoods. We have also
added a sentence that all exterior lighting, in any zone district, must comply
with our zoning code Section 26 -503, Exterior Lighting, which contains the
requirement that lighting must not spill onto adjacent properties (as
referenced in your comments).
Signage:
• To be consistent with our signage code, we do not regulate the width of a
sign. The height limit combined with the total SF max of 6 feet results in a
reasonable width.
• In response to the question about signage for parking (if off - street parking is
required): yes, the zoning code does allow for additional informational
signage (up to 4 SF) that provides direction and information to parking areas
- Submittal to Community Development:
o Staff added language to include any lighting and mechanical
equipment /utilities in the required site plan based on your comments.
Water usage:
o In response to your questions about limiting domestic water use and /or
discussing the use of grey water in the code, the current code does not
regulate how water is used on private property for any land use (i.e. the City
does not limit how much water you can use on your home lawn). The City
does not provide water— this is done through separate utility districts — so
this is not an area that we would want to enforce requirements. That said,
there is nothing in the code that would preclude someone from using grey
water for irrigation or from utilizing water - efficient irrigation systems.
Farmers Markets
- Definition:
o The intent behind the language that requires products being sold to be
made /grown by the seller was recommended by Planning Commission due to
a concern to prevent flea market -type sales at farmers markets. This is not
intended to apply to produce sold at farmers' markets. As such, staff changed
the language to state that non - agricultural products sold at fanners markets
must have been created by the vendor that is selling the product.
Hours of Operation:
o We appreciated your comment about "sunrise" being a bit early for adjacent
residents. The proposed language has been revised to 7 am. This is the typical
time that construction is allowed to occur in residential neighborhoods.
Produce Stands
Restrictions on produce being grown on site:
o The exact language in the proposed ordinance is "Products sold at produce
stands must have been pr grown, raised, or produced on the
premises." The intent is to prevent situations where a person or business
could rent a portion of a property in order to sell products at a temporary
stand. The language should not prevent neighbors who live nearby from
selling at a produce stand as long as the majority of what is being sold was
grown/produced on the site where the stand is located.
Hours of Operation:
o We appreciated your comment about "sunrise" being a bit early for adjacent
residents. The proposed language has been revised to 7 am. This is the typical
time that construction is allowed to occur in residential neighborhoods.
- Seasonal requirement:
o The intent is that produce stands are temporary structures that do not require
a building permit and do not have to meet building or zoning code
regulations for setbacks, etc. The 6 month time limit is in place to ensure that
the stands do not conflict with the building code's definition of a temporary
structure.
Signage:
o The information originally provided by staff did not include any allocation
for signage for produce stands, which was an error. The following regulations
for signage are proposed for produce stands:
(1) Home occupations: where a produce stand is on a residential
lot with a private dwelling it will be licensed as a home
occupation and the existing signage regulations for home
occupations would apply. The home occupation regs allow
one sign up to 2 SF to advertise the stand. Additional
informational signs to direct customers to parking, if needed,
could be allowed up to 4 SF in size.
(2) Produce stands that are not home occupations: non -
illuminated signs up to 6 SF in size and 5 feet in height would
be allowed. Staff is also proposing language that requires the
sign only to be up when the stand is in operation.
Home Gardens
Height limits for vegetables in sight triangles: the zoning code already has
restrictions on any vegetation in sight triangles that would also apply to any
vegetable plants in a front garden.
Removal of dead plants at end of growing season: staff is not proposing any
regulations to address this issue with specific language since it would create a lot of
work for code enforcement officers. However, existing language in the code
regarding property maintenance and weeds should provide enough regulation to
ensure that property owners do not let dead plants take over a garden during non-
growing months.
Page 1 of 2
Sarah Showalter
From: Sarah Showalter
Sent: Tuesday, April 26, 2011 8:48 AM
To: 'Weaver, Amanda'; tedheyd @gmail.com; mhanson @co.jefferson.co.us; tindlecre8ive @gmail.com
Subject: RE: feedback regarding urb discussion
Amanda,
Thank you for your helpful input. I will definitely pass your comments on. Two quick notes /clarifications:
1) We do have language in the code requiring that the majority of products sold at a produce stand
must have been grown or made on -site.
2) Your points about the SUP process being a burden are certainly reasonable and Iwo will
consider them as we work to set reduced fees for urban gardens. One thing that I want to clear
up: you (as in you, the owner of your residential property) can grow on your property and sell that
produce without an SUP. What triggers the SUP is leasing your land to others who will grow
there. Also, if your competitor is leasing land from others and growing in their yards (rather than a
more informal yard - sharing arrangement where there is no leasing) than an SUP actually would
be required. Growing /selling from your own land or informal yard sharing are not triggers for an
SUP. It is a formal /financial arrangement that triggers the SUP where there is a single or two
family home. I hope that helps clarify.
Best,
Sarah Showalter, AICP, LEED AP
Planner II
Office Phone: 303 -235 -2849
ro u1
W h6at I idcy
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This e -mail contains businessconridential information. It is intended only for the use of the individual or entity
natned above. If you arc not the intended recipient, you are notified that any disclosure, copying, dishibution, electronic storage or use of this
communication is piolubited. If you mceived this communication in error, please notify us immediately by e -mail, attaching the original
message, and delete the original message from your computer, and any network to which your computer is connected. Thank you.
From: Weaver, Amanda [ mailto :Amanda.Weaver @ucdenver.edu]
Sent: Monday, April 25, 2011 11:13 AM
To: tedheyd @gmail.com; Sarah Showalter; mhanson @co.jefferson.co.us; tindlecre8ive @gmail.com
Subject: feedback regarding urb discussion
Sarah,
I wanted to thank you again regarding all of your hard work on this subject. I had a few thoughts I
would like to share with the group that I had after leaving the public discussion.
1) In my own research I have found the word "local" needs to be very clearly defined for street stands
and farmer's markets. One of the problems I have seen in Denver farmers's markets is that because
there are no rules around what "local" is - -- anyone can sell produce from anywhere at a stand at the
market. This unfair to those growing locally because these seller's can often sell at lower prices and offer
a larger variety due to the fact that they are simply buying wholesale out of the industrial grocery
market. It is a very lucrative business because consumers make assumptions about the origins of the
food due to the way it is sold (on an outdoor stand.) I would HIGHLY suggest drafting specific language
about the seller needing to produce the food sold OR if it is ok to have non producers selling food at
home stands or markets, to create a definition of what is considered local (how many miles.) I
04/26/2011
Page 2 of 2
cannot emphasize strongly enough what a disincentive it is for local growers to have to compete with non
growers.
2) I am still concerned about the SUP process as it seems that there are many loop holes that could be found.
One that I thought of during the meeting is this: If I am growing on my property and selling -- I will need to get
an SUP. However, if my competitor is ONLY growing in others front yards -- but not his /her own, he does not
have to get this permit. That means my competitor has a direct advantage. Also, the competitor not producing
( that I described above) has a direct advantage. Please consider how this process continues to disincentivise
the local growing process. I am not opposed to the permitting, but the charge for market growing needs to be
equal, fair, and encouraging of everyone who wants to grow.
Thanks,
Amanda
Amanda Weaver
Instructor, Geography and Environmental Science
University of Colorado Denver
l"
04/26/2011
Page 1 of 4
Sarah Showalter
From: Ted Heyd [tedheyd @gmail.com]
Sent: Wednesday, March 23, 2011 2:15 PM
To: Sarah Showalter
Subject: Comments on draft code revisions
Hi Sarah - Continued appreciation with you fielding comments. As we mentioned last week,
former Planning Commissioner and Wheat Ridge resident John McMillin provided some
comments as well (see below). I know he would appreciate a quick response via email, but I also
realize you have a lot on your plate. Your call.
All the best,
-Ted
---- - - - - -- Forwarded message ---- - - - - --
From: John McMillin < iohnmcmillinLwmac.com >
Date: Mon, Mar 21, 2011 at 10:23 PM
Subject: Re: Comments on draft code revisions
To: Ted Heyd < tedheyd (UZuail.com
I really like the overall direction this is taking, and Sara's comments include reasonable, radical
answers to the issues you encountered. Finding nothing to get upset about, I pronounce this to be
Good Work.
Regarding whether organized, collective community gardens should be allowed in single and
two - family residential districts: Your speaker from Denver Urban Gardens stressed the point
that these gardens rarely last when placed on one member's property. This suggests that such
gardens won't be common, or long - lived.
But you still need a rule to consult when one comes along. As the owner of an almost -acre
property, I do believe large -lot landowners ought to be granted some extra allowances on code
specs that primarily deal with the allocation of lot space. With an acre or more, the possession of
multiple trailers or vehicles tends to be less of an intrusion on neighbors' sensibilities. Large lots
bring larger responsibilities for maintenance, irrigation, etc. There should be some
corresponding incentives too.
My own lot was used for nursery plant production during the '90s. The owners held public sales
there. The lot is slightly less than one acre, 33 -37K sq. ft. by two surveys I have. It has driveway
parking for six cars, plus a circle drive to the street access. Other homes exist on only two sides
of the property. I believe it's adequate for organized ag purposes, but I wouldn't object to having
to prove that in a special use process.
I'd like to see other large lots like mine go into small ag uses rather than industrial ones. I've
seen more than a few of our historic farmsteads purchased by owners whose main purpose
seemed to be parking as much junk as would fit onto the lot. Large lots, small homes and low
property values are magnets to the likes of tow truck drivers, amateur recyclers, and other
marginal uses banned elsewhere.
03/24/2011
Page 2 of 4
Or simply those with unfortunate connotations. Consider the prominent large lot at the bluff above
Clear Creek, on Wadsworth. WR 2020 spent city funds to support an expansion of this home as
a "gateway" improvement to polish the city's image. The new owner, presumably drawn by the large lot
and driveway space, now parks his work trucks there... so the first image seen at our gateway is a truck
promoting "disaster cleanup."
With significant and vocal promotion of local gardening, Wheat Ridge has an opportunity to capitalize
on its rural name and participate in current rends toward healthier eating.
I'll try to attend tomorrow night and hear what you're doing for private gardeners.
On Mar 18, 2011, at 11:42 AM, Ted Heyd wrote:
Hi John - It was nice meeting you at the community gardens training on Wednesday.
Following up on our conversation, please see the email thread below as well as the two
attachments. Several community members and I submitted comments to the City on what
was a summary of the draft code revisions. Please note, none of the revisions have vet been
adopted
If you have any comments on the summary provided in the attached table, please let me
know at your earliest convenience While Sarah Showalter (City of Wheat Ridge Planner)
has already provided a written response to our comments, I would send yours along with a
request for consideration prior to the Planning Commission meeting on April 7.
Lastly, if you would like any further background on this process or how we got to this
place in the process, I'd be happy to chat by phone. Just let me know know.
Thanks!
Ted
---- - - - - -- Forwarded message ---- - - - - --
From: Sarah Showalter < sshowalter (<LCi.wlieatrid ,-e.co.us
Date: Fri, Mar 18, 2011 at 8:11 AM
Subject: RE: Comments on draft code revisions
To: Ted Heyd < tedhevdLt�gmail. con >
Cc: Molly Hanson < mhansonCa co.iefferson.eo.us >, Suzanne Teale
< stealelaC msn.com >, "Weaver, Amanda"
< Amanda.Weaver(c�ucdenver.edu >, " tindlecre8ive a;Qmail.com
< tindleere8ive a,gmail.com
Hello all,
Thanks for your great input on our draft code amendments. Attached please find written responses
to all of your comments. I think the biggest issue to clarify is that the proposed ordinance would not
preclude any homeowner(s) on a residential lot (with a single or two family home) from growing on
their lot and selling any or all of what they grow — as long as they have a home occupation. As the
ordinance is written, what would not be allowed on lots with single or two family homes is starting a
shared garden with a formal operating structre - where plots or land are actually rented out. I have
more about this in the attached document, so hopefully it will be a bit clearer.
03/24/2011
Page 3 of 4
If you stil have questions after reading through my responses, I'd be happy to set up a conference
call or talk with anyone individually. And, as I mentioned before, feel free to attend the public
hearing before Planning Commission on April 7th (7pm) or you can watch live on Channel 8.
Thanks again,
Sarah Showalter, AICP, LEER Ale
Planner II
Office Phone: 303 - 235 -2849
Xi Right -click here to download pictures. To
help protect your privacy, Outlook
prevented automatic download of this
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This e-mail contains business- confidential information. It is intended only for the use of the individual
or entity named above. If you are not the intended recipient, you are notified that any disclosure, copying, distribution, electronic storage
or use of this communication is prohibited. If you received this communication in error, please notify us immediately by e -mail,
attaching the original message, and delete the original message from your computer, and any network to which your computer is
connected Thank you.
From: Ted Heyd [mailto: tedheyd(cIgmail.com ]
Sent: Monday, March 14, 20112:41 PM
To: Sarah Showalter
Cc: Molly Hanson; Suzanne Teale; Weaver, Amanda; tindlecre8ive (@gmail.com
Subject: Comments on draft code revisions
Hi Sarah - I've attached comments from Suzanne Teale, Tim Tindle, Amanda Weaver, and
myself.
Thank you very much again for considering these and exploring integration into the final
set of suggested amendments. We want to be sensitive to your time so what do you suggest
in terms of a next step? Are you willing and able to respond to us in writing or would you
prefer a conference call or meeting? Either way, we're hoping to see the next iteration of
the draft amendments before they go to Council if that is possible.
We really appreciate you leading the charge on this and please let us know if you have
questions on any of our comments.
Thanks!
-Ted
03/24/2011
Page 4 of 4.
Live Well Wheat Rieke
510 -919 -8595
tedhe d cuemail.com
Ted Heyd
Live Well Wheat Ridge
Planning and Teclmical Consultant
Phone: 510-919-8595
Email: tedheyd(wamail.com
<Response to AFFV comments 03- 2011.doc > <2011 -02 -25 Urban Ag Code Amendments
Summary- 2.doc>
Ted Heyd
LiveTT%ell Wheat Ridge
Planning and Technical Consultant
Phone: 510-919-8595
Email: tedhevd cugmail.com
03/24/2011
STUDY SESSION NOTES
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
March 7, 2011
Mayor Pro Tem. Langworthy called the Study Session to order at 6:30 p.m. Council Members
present: Davis Reinhart, Karen Berry, Joyce Jay, Joseph DeMott, Karen Adams, Wanda Sang,
and Mike Stites. Also present: City Manager, Patrick Goff; Administrative Services Director,
Heather Geyer; City Clerk, Michael Snow; City Treasurer, Larry Schulz; Police Chief, Dan
Brennan; Community Services Director, Kenneth Johnstone; Sales Tax Supervisor, Kathy
Franklin; Planner, Sarah Showalter; Staff and interested citizens.
1. Marcellus Turner, Jefferson County Public Library presentation
Mr. Turner, Executive Director of Jefferson County Public Library, Bethany Fresby,
Communications and Engagement Office, and Ann Cress, Deputy Executive Director were
present. A video was presented to Council highlighting the public library's services. Council
asked questions about the Library's future service plans, strategic initiatives, technological
advances, and financing challenges.
2. Staff Reports
a) Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
�J Ms. Showalter and Mr. Johnstone summarized for Council several policy questions that will be
addressed at the Planning Commission public hearing in April. Staff is proposing the following
recommendations to Council:
Staff examined the following policy areas where no amendment in the zoning code is currently
recommended:
• Yard sharing — private owners may allow other gardeners to use their property. There are
no legal impediments to this in the current code.
• Home occupation regulations already in place allow selling of produce from home
gardens.
• At this point, no zoning code concepts have been identified to incentivize farmer's
markets or small grocer's sales of local produce. Staff is looking into financial incentives
as one possible option.
Staff recommended code changes to address the following urban gardening policy concepts:
• Large, shared gardens such as community gardens, Community Supported Agriculture
(CSA) or a market garden. Staff is proposing amendments that would allow produce from
these sources be sold for profit rather than non - profit.
• Farmer's Markets have some categories where temporary sales are allowed but a clearer
zoning category is needed.
Study Session Notes, March 7, 2011
Page 2
• Produce stands where there is a small allotment allowed in the agricultural zone districts.
• Home occupation licenses to allow garden sales from homes in residential districts but
not in others.
• Staff also recommended code changes to not allow Farmer's Markets in residential zoned
areas.
Ms. Showalter stated that building code amendments are being reviewed to consider the ability
to build temporary greenhouses which would extend the urban gardening growing season. Their
goal is to find ways to be more lenient while maintaining safety standards.
The idea of potentially having a Farmer's Market at City Hall on the weekends has been
discussed to allow Wheat Ridge residents who cannot attend the Thursday Farmer's Market.
Community Development has started looking at City -owned property that might be usable for
Farmer's Markets. They have reviewed locations and sizes as well as other considerations such
as water availability and other facility needs.
Ms. Showalter contacted the President of the Denver Farmer's Market who stated that currently
they have Markets on all days of the week including weekends. Therefore, it may be difficult to
find enough produce sellers to support a new market at this time.
Council unanimously supported staff drafting an Ordinance to propose the recommended
changes. They will bring it to Planning commission before Council consideration.
b) Crime in Wheat Ridge
Chief Brennan reviewed crime reports for the City of Wheat Ridge over the past 9 years. He
compared crime statistics in 2005 versus those in 2010 and highlighted significant crime trends
as follows:
• There has been a 26% decrease in burglaries.
• Arsons are down 20 %.
• Motor vehicle theft decreased by 60 %. This has been a particular area of focus over the
past three years for Wheat Ridge Police which accounts for the large decrease.
• A 19% decrease in aggravated assaults occurred over this time period.
• Forced sexual assaults increased from 22 in 2005 to 31 in 2010.
• Criminal trespasses reduced by 54 %. These trespass calls are most commonly car break -
ins in parking lots.
• Calls for service and crime reports taken decreased 12% during this time.
• Chief Brennan passed out a report compiled by the Colorado Bureau of Investigation
(CBI) which has the crime statistics for each city in the State. He cautioned using this
report to compare Wheat Ridge to city's of a similar size such as Englewood or
Commerce City because of the different socioeconomic makeup of each community.
• Chief Brennan concluded that Wheat Ridge' crime reduction is due partly to national
trends, but also due to the community education and crime prevention programs in the
City.
STUDY SESSION AGENDA
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
City Council Chambers
7500 W. 29 Ave.
March 7, 2011
ME 6
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to participate in all public meetings
sponsored by the City of Wheat Ridge. Call Heather Geyer, Public Information
Officer at 303- 235 -2 826 at least one week in advance of a meeting if you are
interested in participating and need inclusion assistance.
APPROVAL OF AGENDA
1. Marcellus Turner, Jeffco Public Library presentation
2. Staff Reports
a. Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
b. Addition of youth appointment to Parks and Recreation Commission
c. Crime in Wheat Ridge
3. Report on neighborhood input for dog park
4. Discussion of sales tax and license code revisions
y enY
City of
/heat ice
COMASUN rtl` XVH.OPhiINT
TO: The Mayor and City Counc
THROUGH: Patrick Goff, City Manager
FROM: Ken Johnstone, Community Development Director
Sarah Showalter, Planner 11
DATE: February 25, 2011 (for March 7 Study Session)
SUBJECT: Urban Agriculture
Introduction
In December 2010, I.IveWell Wheat Ridge, City staff; and members of the Wheat Ridge community
made a presentation to City Council about the growth of urban agriculture in cities throughout the
U.S. and the ability for urban agriculture to promote economic and community development. At the
December Study Session, Council directed staff to draft changes to the zoning code to support
urban agricultural uses within Wheat Ridge and to start an assessment of City -owned land that
could potentially be utilized for a garden use, such as a community garden or community supported
agriculture (CSA). The purpose of this memo is to update Council on the progress that has been
made since the Study Session in December.
Zoning Colic Issues
Staff would first like to provide information to Council on the following items that do not appear to
require any changes to the zoning regulations:
1. Yard Sharing
There is no current language in the zoning code that would prevent this activity in residential
neighborhoods.
2. Selling produce from home
The home occupation regulations in Section 26 -613 of the zoning code, which allow home -
based businesses in residential zone districts, already expressly permit the sale of produce and
plants grown on the premises. While all other types of home occupations are restricted to be
conducted indoors only (either within the home or accessory structure), the regulations allow for
the sale of produce outside of the home.
3. Zoning incentives for farmers marke and /or small grocer on 33 Avenue
Staff researched the idea of zoning incentives that could be utilized to promote farmers markets
and/or small, local grocers. It was difficult to determine what zoning toots could be utilized as
incentives. Instead, staff believes that financial incentives — such as reduced taxes — would be
more likely to draw these types of businesses.
Council Study Session
February 25, 2011 (for March 7 Study Session)
Page 2
There are several other topics that do require amendments to the zoning code. Staff is working on
draft code amendments based on (1) research of other jurisdictions who have addressed urban
agriculture in their zoning codes and (2) a study session with Planning Commission that was held in
January. A summary of the proposed amendments may be found below.
1. Urban Gardens
Shared garden uses, whether non - profit community gardens or for - profit gardens (often
called market gardens), would fall under this category. The proposal is to allow this use in
all zone districts in the City, including residential zone districts. However, these gardens
would not be allowed on lots zoned residentially where the primary use is a single or two-
family home, since allowing gardens on the same lots as existing residences would likely be
too intensive and could conflict with neighborhood character. The basic regulations that staff
recommends for urban gardens include:
• Applicants who are proposing a garden will provide a submittal to Community
:Development that includes a site plan and information about operations and parking.
• On -site parking will not be required as long as there is adequate on- street parking
nearby.
• Signage will be limited to one sign up to 6 SF in size and 6 feet in height.
• Hours of operation in residential zone districts would be restricted from sunrise to
sunset.
• Accessory structures such as sheds and greenhouses will be allowed on the garden
site but will follow the regulations (size restrictions, setbacks, etc) for accessory
structures in the underlying zone district.
2. Fanners Markets
Farmers markets would be allowed in all zone districts, including residential zone districts
except where the primary use on a property is a single or two - family [tonic. Similar to
garden uses, a submittal to Community Development with information about parking and
hours of operation would be required. farmers markets would have to follow the proposed
regulations below:
• There is no specific on -site parking requirement, but parking must be addressed in
the submittal to Community Development,
• Hours of operation in residential zone districts would be restricted from sunrise to
sunset.
• A business license from the City would be required.
• One temporary banner up to 50 SF in size would be allowed only when the market is
in session.
• Farmers markets would be required to sell primarily agricultural products and all
products sold would need to be grown or made by the vendor selling that product.
Most farmers markets have their own regulations and bylaws governing products
sold to ensure an agricultural focus and to ensure quality.
3. Produce Stands
Currently roadside produce stands are only expressly allowed in agricultural zone districts.
Staff proposes allowing produce stands in all zone districts. Those in residential zone
Council Study Session
February 25, 2011 (for March 7 Study Session)
Page 3
districts on a property with a residence would be required to follow the home occupation
regulations that are already in place. The following general regulations would apply to
produce stands:
• The products(s) being sold must have been primarily made or grown on -site.
• A business license from the City is required
• The stand will operate on a seasonal basis (up to 6 months per year). When the stand
is not in operation, it must be taken down.
• Temporary on -street parking is only required if there is no on- street parking nearby
4. Temporary Greenhouses /Hoop houses
Community gardens and home growers often use temporary greenhouses that are shaped
like a half- circle with plastic or fabric covering (and often referred to as a "hoop house ") as
an affordable way to extend the growing season, without having to construct a permanent
greenhouse with a foundation. These structures can have difficulty meeting the wind and
snow load requirements in the Building Code_ Planning staff is working with the Building
Division on an amendment to the Building Code that would allow a slightly reduced
standard for wind and snow load requirements for small (likely 400 SF or less), temporary
greenhouse structures.
Potential Weekend Farmers Market at City Hall
Staff contacted Alan Mazzotti, the Market Manager for the Metro Denver Farmers Market
organization, who currently operates the Wheat Ridge Farmers Market to inquire about the
possibility of adding a weekend farmers market at City Hall. Mr. Mazzotti stated that their
organization already has a market on Saturday (at Wadsworth and Bowles) and on Sunday (in
Highlands Ranch) and that he currently does not have enough farmers who would be available to
create a second weekend market. Nonetheless, lie said that he would let his board know that there
was a definite interest in Wheat Ridge for a weekend market and keep this location in mind ifthey
plan any additional weekend markets in the future. Additional analysis would be necessary to
determine what operational impacts there would be in regard to the municipal use of the property on
weekends (most notably the Police Department).
Inventory of City- Owned Land
Parks and Recreation staff prepared an inventory of City -awned land that could potentially be used
for garden /farming uses. The results of this inventory are attached under a separate memo from
Parks.
Attachment
1. Memo Re: Potential Garden Areas
City of
(heat Ae
PARKS AND RECREATIC?N
♦' ' ,. ,
TO: Patrick Goff City Manager
FROM: Joyce Manwaring, Parks and Recreation Director
DATE: February 17, 2011
SUBJECT: Community Garden Areas on City -Owned Lands
Attached is a Matrix of potential public gardening sites within Parks and Recreation Department
City -owned lands.
This matrix also includes other associated infrastructure that might be needed to consider the
location as a feasible site for such activities. The amenities listed for each site include parking and
bathroom facilities, whether there is water available on the site and whether the site is presently
fenced. Other items included are the size of the potential gardening areas per site and the current
zoning of these sites.
In addition, gardening within the Wheat Ridge Greenbelt would be considered an incompatible use.
The Open Space Management Plan adopted in 2002, under the Vegetation Section states: "Preserve
and maintain native plant communities, protect rare species and communities, and restore native
vegetation in suitable areas."
Conclusions:
Most of the properties covered in this matrix have the potential to support a public gardening use.
These lands are not currently being used for parks and recreation purposes. In all cases there would
be capital out lay required to provide water, parking, bathrooms or fencing to the site. None of the
sites other than Happiness Gardens, which is already a community garden, are gardening- ready.
Exhibits:
A. Matrix of Gardening Sites
B. Happiness Garden Expenditures
Attachment 1
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City of
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COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Urban Agriculture Code Amendments
Meeting Notes
February 14, 2011
Sarah Showalter
Ken Johnstone
Meredith Reckert
Lauren Mikulak
Community and Market Gardens
A. Agreed that we will not have a set off - street parking requirement for gardens of any
size. However, we will include language that on -site parking will be provided if there is
no adequate on- street parking adjacent to the site. Parking will be reviewed by Comm
Dev through the submittal that is required
B. Surfacing of parking —for any parking on garden sites, it will meet the surfacing
requirements for residential parking (see language in code)
C. Accessory structures (sheds, greenhouses, etc)
i. Add language specifically stating that accessory structures are allowed on
gardens even if there is no primary structure
ii. Accessory structures shall follow the regulations for accessory structures in the
underlying zone district (just use the 600 SF and 400 SF cut off in R -3 and R -2A
districts)
Farmers Markets
A. Potential definition: A publicly or privately operated, open -air establishment where
primarily agricultural products such as raw vegetables, fruits, herbs, flowers, plants, or
nuts are sold. All products sold at the market must have been crown or created by the
vendor selling the item.
B. Follow -up with Planning Commission: we don't want to have more specific regulations
than the language above since it is difficult to enforce and farmers markets have their
own by -laws and operating guidelines that limit the sale of non -ag products
III. Growing sunflowers
A. Chapter 24, Article III — it does not appear that sunflowers would be restricted since
they are not a tall grass or weed
B. Follow -up item: ask Mary in code enforcement if this has been an issue that they've
had to enforce in the past
IV. Amanda Weaver property — 11100 W 38 Ave
A. Produce stand
i. Change approach to code amendments: allow roadside stands in residential
districts without the restriction that they cannot be where there are single or
two family homes as the primary use
ii. Note that this approach will require amending home occupation regs to allow
outside stands
B. Rezoning: get some feedback from Planning Commission about the idea of rezoning to
A -1?
V. City Council Study Session March 7 —this will be a staff report rather than a full agenda
item
A. Update on approach of code amendments (staff working closely with Planning
Commission)
B. Update on potential weekend market at City Hall
C. Update on proposed zoning incentives: we would recommend financial incentives
instead
D. Inventory of city -owned land from Parks (and cost of operating Happiness Gardens)
VA
There were no members of the public present.
7. PUBLIC HEARING
There were no items scheduled for public hearing.
8. OTHER ITEMS
A. Resolution Designating a Public Place for Posting Notices of Public
Meetings
In accordance with the Colorado Open Meeting Law, Planning Commission must
annually designate a public pace for posting notices of meetings.
It was moved by Commissioner TIMMS and seconded by Commissioner
BUCKNAM to approve Resolution No. 01 -11, a resolution establishing a
designated public place for the posting of meeting notices as required by the
Colorado Open Meetings Law. The motion carried 5 -0.
9. STUDY SESSION
It was moved by Commissioner BUCKNAM and seconded by Commissioner
POND to enter into study session. The motion carried 5 -0.
A. Urban Agriculture
This item was presented by Sarah Showalter. Her presentation included an
overview of urban agriculture as it relates to planning and community
development. She asked for discussion regarding how urban agriculture fits into
the Wheat Ridge Community as well as input on proposed zoning code
amendments related to urban agriculture.
Comments included:
• Should there be an exception for vegetables such as corn in relation to
nuisance and weed height restrictions.
• Parking requirements don't seem necessary for community gardens as most
people would walk to them.
• There should be allowance for small structures such as potting sheds.
• Should the process be different for gardens on vacant lots between residential
structures versus on school property, for example.
• There should be no parking requirement for market gardens where produce is
grown to be sold to restaurants, etc.
• Produce stands should be required to be removed when the season is over.
• Regulations regarding the growing of marijuana should be considered.
Planning Commission Minutes 2 January 6, 2011
• Tall plants such as corn grown in front yards could detract from the character
of the residential neighborhood.
• Community gardens are sometimes jammed with cars, especially on
weekends, so some parking regulations may be necessary.
• Should hours and lighting be restricted in residential areas.
• Requirements for asphalt paving would be cost prohibitive for produce stands,
which are temporary uses, and for some community gardens.
• Feed Denver organization has good resources about urban gardening.
• Accessory structures should be regulated and temporary greenhouses should
be exempt from the building code. Storage containers should be prohibited.
• Urban gardening would be representative of the city's farming heritage.
• City owned land could be used for community gardens.
• A farmers market could be held in the park adjacent to the municipal building.
• Once everything is finalized, publicity is important.
• It would be nice to encourage "people's markets" that would involve local
growers more than larger farms from outside the city.
• Since some hand -made items could be sold at fanners markets, regulation of
"flea market" type items should be considered.
• Processed produce should fall under the produce category.
10. OTHER MATTERS
Commissioner TIMMS suggested receiving code updates, etc. on CD rather than
printing on paper. Meredith Reckert will look into this. Chair MATTHEWS
informed that the entire city code is available on -line.
11. ADJOURNMENT
The meeting was adjourned at 8:18 p.m.
Richard Matthews, Chair Ann Lazzeri, Secretary
Planning Commission Minutes 3 January 6, 2011
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Wheatdge
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Memorandum
TO: Planning Commission
THROUGH: Ken Johnstone, Community Development Director
FROM: Sarah Showalter, Planner II
DATE: December 30, 2010 (for January 6 Study Session)
SUBJECT: Urban Agriculture Zoning Code Amendments
Communities throughout Colorado and the nation are embracing urban agriculture. From
growing food on city -owned land, to establishing community gardens, farmers markets, and
rooftop gardens in the middle of the city, many jurisdictions are promoting urban agriculture as a
way to make sustainable, healthy communities. Wheat Ridge residents are similarly embracing
urban agriculture on private property, at community gardens, and on family farms.
There has much interest in the topic of urban agriculture in the past year, evidenced by new
community gardens that are under works in Wheat Ridge, as well as the formation of the Access
to Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Task Force (a group sponsored by LiveWell Wheat Ridge and the
Jefferson Conservation District). Planning Division staff has received several inquiries related to
urban agriculture, such as whether gardens are allowed on vacant lots, and where/how produce
can be sold. For most of these topics, the current zoning code contains little to no direction.
Citizens and community partners interested in urban agriculture, along with Planning staff,
presented to City Council at their December 6th study session. At this study session, staff
received direction from Council to move forward with a series of zoning code amendments that
will help to clarify and support activities related to urban agriculture. Council generally
recommended an approach that would be as permissive and supportive toward urban agriculture
as possible.
The purpose of this memo and the January 6`" Planning Commission study session is to provide
the Planning Commission with a brief overview of urban agriculture as it relates to planning and
community development, to discuss how urban agriculture fits into the Wheat Ridge community,
and to seek input on a series of proposed zoning code amendments related to urban agriculture.
This memo is structured as follows:
1. Overview of Urban Agriculture and Planning
2. Urban Agriculture and the Current Zoning Code
3. Potential Zoning Code Amendments
Overview of Urban Agriculture and Planning
In some communities, promoting urban agriculture dates as far back as the 1960s and 1970s,
when community gardens first started to form. In the past 10 years, however, the trend to
produce and sell local food in urban communities has become ever more prevalent. Some cities,
such as Cleveland and Detroit, have embraced community gardens and market gardens (gardens
where food is sold, usually for profit, to restaurants, stores, and farmers markets) as a way to
revitalize vacant land in inner -city neighborhoods. Other cities, such as Seattle and Chicago,
have planted fruit and vegetable plants on city-owned parks and medians. Urban and suburban
communities have been drawn to urban agriculture for a variety of reasons, including:
• Economic and community development
• Environmental sustainability
• Connecting urban dwellers to fresh, healthy food
In Wheat Ridge, a community founded on an agricultural past, there has been a renewed interest
in how agriculture can be integrated into a largely built -out city. The comprehensive plan,
Envision Wheat Ridge, states a specific goal related to urban agriculture in Chapter 9: "The City
will continue to work with the agricultural community, small business owners, and health
organizations to provide residents with opportunities for accessible and affordable healthy
foods." The plan goes on to recommend specific strategies, such revising regulations to allow
farmers markets, produce stands, and urban agriculture and to preserve existing small family
farms that still exist in the city.
Many members of the Wheat Ridge community have been actively engaged in promoting urban
agriculture. There are several examples that already exist or are currently in the works, including:
• The Happiness Gardens: located on Ammons Street near the Wilmore -Davis School, this
site is owned by the City and offers over 90 plots for community gardeners
• The Wheat Ridge Farmers Market: located on Wadsworth, privately owned and operated
May through October on Thursdays
• Access to Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Task Force: a group of community members who
meet regularly to promote urban agriculture and access to fresh foods in Wheat Ridge.
• New Community Gardens
• Harvest Mountain Community Garden is being planned for a property near Xenon
and 42 Street.
• Highlands Park senior residence on 38 Avenue is adding garden plots to its open
space areas for residents' use.
• A group of community members, including Wheat Ridge Middle School
(WRMS) and Stevens Elementary, applied for a federal grant that could fund a
community/school garden on the WRMS property.
Urban Agriculture and the Current Zoning Code
Like Wheat Ridge, most municipalities in the US are still operating under zoning codes that were
largely written in the middle of the 20 century. These codes tend not to specifically address
urban agriculture in any way, restricting farming or gardening uses to agricultural zone districts
only. For this reason, some communities have recently amended their zoning codes to create
definitions for activities associated with urban agriculture (such as farmers markets, community
gardens, market gardens, etc.) and to clarify where these uses are permitted and not permitted.
Attachment 1 contains a summary of research that staff conducted to understand what other
communities have done to address zoning for urban agriculture. Because this is such a recent
trend, there were not many communities in the metro area to choose from. Thus the list contains
a sampling of cities from throughout the country that have recently made changes to their code to
support urban agriculture. The city of Lakewood in Colorado is currently undergoing a process
to amend their code to be more supportive of urban agriculture, but the project is not complete at
this time.
In its current form, Wheat Ridge's zoning code does not address many uses and activities
associated with urban agriculture. As such, it is difficult for staff to give direction to community
members as to what uses are allowed and where. The following section provides a summary of
the most common urban agriculture uses and what regulations, if any, apply in the current code.
Home Gardens
Many Wheat Ridge residents already grow vegetables or fruits at their own home. The
zoning code allows this as long as all requirements regarding nuisance and property
maintenance are met. Gardens may be included as part of the minimum required
landscaped area for residential lots (25% of the lot for single and two family homes),
including the required front yard area. While the definition of landscaping in Section 26-
502 does not specifically include food - producing plants, Chapter 15 of the Code of Laws
states that vegetable gardens cannot be considered as weeds and thus they are implicitly
included as part of the allowable landscaped area for a residential lot.
Selling Produce
Selling Produce Grown at Home
Within any zone district, the current code allows residents to sell produce or food
products made on site by obtaining a business license for a home occupation. The home
occupation regulations allow residents to sell produce online or in person. The
business /sales must be located in the house or an allowable accessory structure (such as a
garage) and may not occur through a temporary produce stand. Any home occupation
must follow the home occupation regulations, which include limits on the amount of
square footage devoted to the business and the number of employees.
Produce Stands
Produce stands are only allowed in the City's two agricultural zone districts, A -I and A-
2. The code specifies that such stands must be located on the premises where the product
sold is grown or made, that temporary off - street parking is provided, and that the stands
are not in operation for more than 6 months of the year.
Temporary Produce Sales
This use currently exists in the code under the use category "Temporary Christmas tree,
produce, and bedding plant sales lots" and is permitted in the RC, C -1, C -2, and I zone
districts. There is no definition for this category of use in the code. Section 26 -627
requires that such temporary sales lots provide adequate off - street parking and it restricts
them to a total time period of 90 days. It is this category of use that allows the hatch chili
stands along Wadsworth in the fall.
Farmers Markets
The only zone districts that specifically permit farmers markets are the mixed use zone
districts. Agricultural zone districts allow commercial greenhouses, and the retail sale of
"related" products, but fanners markets are not specifically listed. There is no mention of
farmers markets in the industrial, commercial, or residential zone districts and this use is
not defined anywhere in the zoning code.
Urban Garden Uses
The term "urban gardens" refers to both community (non - profit) and market (for - profit)
garden models. Because the agricultural zone districts allow a wide range of agricultural
uses, including farming, community gardens or market gardens are implicitly allowed.
They are not, however, specifically listed on the permitted use chart and they are not
defined anywhere in the code. None of the zone districts in the current code address
whether garden uses would be allowed as a primary or accessory use. While the mixed
use zone districts allow food - producing land to count toward open space requirements
(albeit not as usable open space), it is not clear whether a lot with mixed use zoning could
have a community garden as a primary use.
Potential Zoning Code Amendments
As previously mentioned, City Council directed staff to pursue changes to the zoning code that
would clarify how and where urban agriculture uses are allowed. Their broad policy direction
was to be as permissive as possible in as many zone districts as possible. With that basic
framework in mind, staff has started to develop recommendations for amendments to the zoning
code. The preliminary proposals are listed below. Questions and items for which staff would like
specific feedback from the Planning Commission at the January 6 study session are highlighted.
Selling Produce
Selling Produce Grown at Home
At this time, staff does not recommend any substantive changes to the zoning
regulations since residents are already able to grow gardens as part of their required
landscaped area. The only potential code amendment would be to revise the definition of
"landscaping" to include vegetable plants. Staff proposes this amendment to provide
clarification and to align the definition of landscaping with the current definition of a
"weed."
It is worth noting that the Jefferson Conservation District, in partnership with LiveWell
Wheat Ridge, recently produced a zoning guide for residents who are interested in
growing food or keeping animals on their property. This document, entitled Residential
Zoning and Urban Agriculture: A Guide for Wheat Ridge, is a great resource for Wheat
Ridge residents who wish to grow at home and is currently available via the City's
website.
Produce Stands
Staff recommends amending the code to allow produce stands in any zone district, not
just agricultural zone districts. Such stands would not be allowed in R -1 and R -2 zone
districts where the primary use on a lot is a single- or two- family home. The definition
of such stands would clearly state that the produce or product(s) being sold must have
been primarily grown or made onsite. This would allow produce stands to exist where
community gardens, pumpkin patches, etc. are located, within any zone district. Staff
would also propose regulations to require that adequate off - street parking is provided
and to regulate signage (one small sign per stand).
Policy Direction Requested:
• Does this proposed approach seem reasonable?
• Are there any items, besides signage and off - street parking, that would require
regulation?
Temporary Produce Sales
While staff is not recommending any changes at this time, we would like input on
whether it is sensible to include stands that sell produce that has been cooked or
processed, such as the hatch chili stands, under this category. A definition for this use
could potentially be added to the code to help clarify what falls under the category of
"produce."
Farmers Markets
Staff recommends adding a definition of a farmers market to the code that would be
similar to the following, taken from Minneapolis's zoning code:
"A publicly or privately operated, open -air establishment where primarily
agricultural products such as raw vegetables, fruits, syrups, herbs, flowers, plants,
nuts or handcrafted items are sold. Non - agricultural products may be sold but the
area dedicated to such products shall not occupy more than twenty -five (25) percent
of the total sales area. Canopies may be allowed in order to provide protection from
the elements for both the operators and the products"
Such a definition ensures that flea markets are not allowed under the category of farmers
markets.
Staff recommends allowing Farmers Markets in any zone district as a primary or
accessory use. Farmers markets would not be allowed, however, in R -1 and R -2 zone
districts where the primary use on a lot is a single- or two - family home. Regulations
would also be added to the code to require adequate parking (whether onsite or at an
immediately adjacent site via a parking agreement) and to regulate signage.
Policy Direction Requested:
• Does this proposed approach seem reasonable?
• Are there any items, besides signage and off - street parking, that would require
regulation?
• Is the Planning Commission comfortable allowing the potential for farmers
markets on undeveloped residentially zoned property?
Urban Garden Uses
Staff recommends allowing gardens — both community gardens, where produce is
consumed by the growers or donated, and market gardens, where produce is sold for
profit — in all zone districts as a permitted primary or accessory use. Gardens would not
be allowed as an accessory use in R -1 and R -2 zone districts where the primary use on a
lot is a single- or two - family home. The proposed amendment would include regulations
regarding:
Parking: in research of other jurisdictions, it is common not to require off - street
parking for gardens, or to have very minimal requirements (such as 0.5 spaces
per 1,000 SF where there is a building on the site). Thus staff would recommend
a very low on -site parking requirement, with the option to do shared or off -site
parking
Signage: a garden site would be allowed a maximum of one small sign (likely 4 -6
square feet and no more than 6 feet in height)
Allowed Buildings on Site: structures such as sheds or greenhouses would be
allowed as a primary or accessory building. Staff recommends limiting the total
number and/or square footage. Setbacks for structures would follow underlying
zone district
Policy Direction Requested:
• Does this proposed approach seem reasonable?
• Are there any items, besides signage, off - street parking, and allowable accessory
structures that should be included in the regulations?
Attachments:
1. Summary Table of Research
2. Articles on Urban Ag from City Council Study Session Packet
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Amadran Planning Assodadon
Planning
August /September 2009
Contents
Where Food Planning and
Health Intersect
A New Direction at the
USDA
A Serious Flirt With Dirt
Tarpon Springs Builds a
Road to Local Food
Vancouver's Green Thumb
Lawn Be Gone
What's Fowl Is Fair
Berkeley Schools Go Green
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Planning — August/September 2009
Delicious in Detroit
The city is plowing resources into its extensive stretches of vacant land.
By Olga Bonfiglio
Detroit, once the nation's manufacturing hub, now has 70,000 vacant lots, comprising about 27
percent of its 139 square miles. The city has lost one million residents since 1950 and hundreds of
thousands of jobs since the early 1960s.
What to do with all that vacant land? One solution is to convert it to community gardens. That is
the strategy being encouraged by the city council's Green Task Force, created by council president
Kenneth Cockrell after he was appointed to his post in September 2008. The agency is partnering
with several nonprofit organizations to encourage residents to adopt vacant city -owned land.
Those who pay the $20 annual permit fee benefit by having the city plow the land, test the soil,
and provide seeds and seedlings for vegetables and flowers.
"We now realize that people who were once dismissed as tree - huggers were actually futurists,"
says Cockrel. "They saw what was coming and they anticipated it and moved to deal with it. And
now we're all dealing with it, and becoming environmentally conscious."
Detroit has been here before — during the
depression of the 1890s, when Mayor Hazen
Pingree encouraged residents to garden; during
World War 11, when victory gardens were
common; and in the 1970s, when Mayor Coleman
Young's Farm-a -Lot Program also allowed people
to grow food on vacant city lots.
In 1992, the late autoworker - activist James
Boggs and his wife, Grace Lee Boggs, recognized
that robots and globalization were reducing job
opportunities in the city. They began Detroit
Summer, an initiative aimed at getting Detroit
residents to envision alternative futures.
"Actually, it was a blessing that Detroit no longer had the illusion of expansion," says Grace Lee
Boggs, a former union and civil rights activist and one of the first Asian Americans in the nation to
receive a doctorate in philosophy. "You can bemoan your fate or, as the African American elders
taught, you can plant gardens."
As the garden movement progressed, many nonprofit food organizations emerged to create the
umbrella group known as the Garden Resource Program Collaborative. The collaborative has
inspired 359 family, 170 community, and 40 school gardens throughout the city since 2003.
"The city government is catching up to the community," says Kathryn Underwood, a planner for
the city who works with the planning commission.
Underwood's own experience is a case in point. The vacant lot in her neighborhood was becoming
a trash heap when she, her husband, and six other families started a garden there five years ago.
Not only did the garden produce fresh vegetables, but it beautified the area, engaged people of all
ages, gave kids an opportunity to see where food comes from, and provided a place for people to
gather and talk.
"That's the way neighborhoods used to be," says Underwood, who added that gardens have
played a huge role in African American cultural tradition. That is significant for Detroit, since 80
percent of its population is black.
"Food is essential to dally life," says Ashley Atkinson, one of a number of young leaders promoting
urban gardens. She directs Greening of Detroit, which started In 1989 as a reforesting program for
the city's neighborhoods, boulevards, and parks. She has been instrumental in developing
gardening and youth education programs to help stabilize and redevelop neighborhoods.
"We build relationships before we do soil tests," she says. "That ensures that the gardens are
scaled correctly and not too overwhelming to the people who will work on them."
Other initiatives are in the works. Last September
the Detroit city council created a pilot land bank
authority to oversee up to 10,000 city -owned
properties. Under state law, Michigan's local land
banks are aimed at overcoming obstacles like
clouded titles, prohibitively high prices,
protracted sales transactions, a fragmented land
disposition process, and land speculation.
Last year the state also recognized the value of
gardens and implemented its own Garden for
Growth Program. For $50, residents can lease
vacant state lands to grow a garden. Wayne
County has a similar program for county -owned
lands.
In 2007 the Next Detroit Neighborhood Initiative targeted six neighborhoods and designated $1.7
million for vacant lot reclamation (gardens, tree nurseries, and pocket parks) out of the $8.9
Gardening tradition
Land banking
million raised from private foundations, businesses, and the state's Cities of Promise program.
Detroit is also trying to create dense urban centers surrounded by forests and connected by
greenways, bike trails, and light rail, says Rick Bowers, staff attorney for the city council.
Meanwhile, a number of well - connected community activists helped push for the creation of the
Detroit Food Policy Council, which was established this March to address food security issues. Fast
food and processed foods have largely replaced home - cooked meals in many Detroit households,
leading to health problems like obesity, hypertension, diabetes, and heart disease, says Malik
Yakini, chairman of the Detroit Black Community Food Security Network.
Of course, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, food security and healthy
eating habits are important to everyone, not just specific groups. Nick Leonard, a pre -law student
who grew up in a wealthy Detroit suburb, was indifferent to nutritious food until he pursued an
internship with the urban gardens last summer. He learned how to grow organic vegetables — and
how to cook and enjoy eating them.
He also learned about the connection between gardening and a sustainable lifestyle. "Everyone
can have a backyard garden," or they can go to the farmer's market,' he says. "These approaches
are good for the environment."
Leonard volunteered at Earthworks, another Detroit nonprofit food organization, which distributes
fresh, locally grown vegetables to low- income families and teaches children how to grow, cook,
and eat nutritious homegrown food. Earthworks began in 1997 on a vacant lot to help supply food
for a local soup kitchen and food bank. Four years ago, It built a 1,300- square -foot greenhouse
that last year provided gardeners with nearly 130,000 seedlings and more than 32,000 seeds for
free.
"Local food systems and urban agriculture are
valuable tools for regional economic
development," says Kami Pothukuchi, associate
professor of geography and urban planning at
Wayne State University. "They have a great
potential for creating jobs, developing small
businesses, and keeping precious dollars in the
community."
Actually, this was the way it worked until the
1950s, says Pothukuchi, when an "industrialized
food system" began to feed the nation with
processed foods at cheap prices and eventually
became a trillion- dollar globalized system with a
handful of corporations controlling most food production, processing, distribution, retailing, and
waste management.
"Unfortunately, corporate domination of the food system has meant that food eaten in most U.S.
communities is produced outside the community," says Pothukuchi. "This then lowers the local tax
base and reduces the number and variety of jobs available to local people."
Detroit has only a few grocery stores where residents can buy a variety of nutritious, high - quality,
culturally appropriate foods. Residents spend about $500 million every year in food stores outside
the city, she says.
Last year, Pothukuchi started the Sustainable Food Systems Education and Engagement in Detroit
Program at Wayne State University (SEED Wayne for short) to engage students in building a
sustainable local food system. It works with a number of community partners to offer activities
related to food security, urban agriculture, farmers markets, fans -to- Institution systems, and food
policy.
In addition, the Eastern Market contributes to Detroit's local food system by featuring more than
300 locally owned businesses, booths for "Grown in Detroit" urban garden produce, and the new
Detroit Market Garden Project, a 2.5 -acre demonstration site with gardens, hoop houses,
greenhouses, and training programs in food production and finance.
"[The Market Garden] is truly a well- rounded green project that can serve as an urban laboratory
where people see the entire process of growing, processing, distributing, and retailing food," says
Dan Carmody, the market's manager — and a planner with long experience in economic
development.
Urban gardening is being used as an economic development tool not only in Detroit but in Boston,
Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Milwaukee, New York, Portland, San Francisco, and Washington,
D.C. Advocates say that using vacant land for gardens is not a cure -all, but it is a way to help
residents feed their families nutritious food, to enhance neighborhoods, and to make cities more
sustainable.
Olga Bon/lgho is a freelance writer who also teaches at Kalamazoo College in Kalamazoo, Michigan
Sidebar: Montreal's One Percent Solution
Sidebar: It Takes a Wall
Resources
Images: Top — Urban agriculture programs like the Greening of Detroit and SEED Wayne of
Wayne State University are teaching residents and decision makers about food systems, safety,
and policy. Middle — An Earthworks greenhouse, located on a formerly vaunt lot. Bottom — The
nonprofit group Earthworks distributes fresh vegetables to low- income families. Photos Olga
Bonfiglio.
Online: American Community Gardening Association: www.communitygarden.org
Which of the nation's 4,685 farmers markets is your favorite? Vote at the American Farmland
Trust website, www.farmiand.org /vote. The results will be announced during Fanners Market
Week, August 2 -8.
Going local again
Smart city governments grow produce for the people I Feeding the City I Grist http: / /www.grist.orglarticle/ food - smart- city - governments - grow - produce - f...
Pnnt Now Wnars this? See Original
FOOD NOT FLOWERS
Smart city governments grow produce for the people
by Darrin Nordahl 5 Aug 2010 3:41 PM
There's a new breed of urban agriculture
germinating throughout the country, one whose
seeds come from an unlikely source.
Local government officials from Baltimore, Md., to
Bainbridge Island, Wash. are plowing under the
ubiquitous hydrangeas, petunias, daylilies, and turf
grass around public buildings, and planting fruits
and vegetables instead -- as well as in
underutilized spaces in our parks, plazas, street
medians, and even parking lots. The new attitude
at forward- thinking city halls seems to be, in a
tough economy, why expend precious resources
growing ornamental plants, when you can grow
edible ones? And the bounty from these municipal
gardens -- call it public produce -- not only
promotes healthy eating, it bolsters food security
simply by providing passersby with ready access
1 of 4 08/06/2010 8:25 AM
The produce outside the capitol building at Madison, WI, is donated to a food pantry.
Smart city governments grow produce for the people I Feeding the City I Grist http: / /www.grist.orglarticle/ food - smart- city- governments -grow- produce -f...
to low- or no -cost fresh fruits and vegetables. Chard is one of the many plants growing in the
Montpelier, Vt. state house vegetable garden.
But is this really city government's job?
As long as municipal policymakers strive to create programs to reduce social inequity and increase the
quality of life for their citizens, I contend that it is. Access to healthy, low -cost food helps assure the
health, safety, and welfare of citizens every bit as much as other services that city governments provide,
such as clean drinking water, protection from crime and catastrophe, sewage treatment, garbage
collection, shelters and low- income housing programs, fallen -tree disposal, and pothole -free streets.
Median magicians
In Seattle, a forgotten strip of land that once attracted only those engaged in illicit behavior is now a
source of fresh food and community pride. Residents of the Queen Anne neighborhood worked with the
Department of Transportation to transform a neglected street median, rampant with invasive plants and
pricked with hypodermic syringes, into a community garden and gathering space. They cleared the
median of its debris and weeds, and have recently constructed raised vegetable beds and planted fruit
trees. (1 had the honor of attending the dedication ceremony back in April, and planted -- what else? -- an
apple tree.)
Parks and Recreation staff in Des Moines, Iowa, meanwhile, are cultivating the land in neighborhood
parks and around schools and community shelters. Fruits and nuts are the foods of choice for Des
Moines staff, since once established, these woody perennials require considerably less maintenance than
annual vegetable crops such as corn, beans, and tomatoes. Des Moines' reasons to turn public space
into food gardens are profound: bolster food security, improve economic self - sufficiency, increase
community access to culturally appropriate and nutritious food, and to make connections between
community members, organizations, and resources to ensure the longevity and viability of the urban food
system.
Interestingly, city staff purposely plant fruits that are unfamiliar to many. By encouraging Des Moines
citizens to try new foods they hope to increase dietary diversity and to improve "food literacy." That these
plants are unfamiliar to many is somewhat ironic, as many of the fruit trees and shrubs -- such as paw
2 of 4 08/06/2010 8:25 AM
Volunteers plant a median in the Queen Anne neighborhood of Seattle with edible landscaping.
Smart city governments grow produce for the people I Feeding the City I Grist http: / /www.grist.org/article/ food - smart- city- governments -grow- produce -f...
paw, spicebush, and serviceberry -- are actually native to Iowa.
A bit further east along Highway 80, city planners
in Davenport, Iowa, where I work, are refining
plans to turn an underutilized downtown parking
lot into an edible oasis. What is today a one -acre
eyesore will become green space filled with fruit
and nut orchards, garden plots, and pergolas
replete with rambling grape vines. The renovation
of this parking -lot- cum -park is being funded out
of the municipality's Capital Improvement
Program: $370,000 is allocated for construction,
with ongoing maintenance supplied by volunteers
from United Way, Big Brothers Big Sisters,
students from local grade schools and
universities, and even the proprietor of the Thai
restaurant across the street. (The produce he
will plant and harvest -- such as Thai eggplants,
chilies, and basil -- is essential to his authentic
cuisine, but difficult to source in Davenport.)
The willingness on behalf of these local
organizations to help the City of Davenport with
the ongoing production of fruits and vegetables
should placate anyone concerned with
maintenance of these public produce plots.
Imagine how few takers there would be if
municipal leaders were to offer citizens an
"opportunity" to help city staff mow the grass in
the neighborhood park or weed the petunia beds Davenport, Iowa, volunteers, and nonprofits.
in the downtown plaza. Ask those same citizens
to help grow food for their community, and it is remarkable the legions who step forward, trowel in hand.
Capitol ideas
Higher - profile landscapes around city halls are also shedding their purely ornamental visage for an edible
makeover. Such garden transformations have already occurred in Baltimore, Md. and Portland, Ore. In
Montpelier, Vt., chard, beets, kale, collards, and red lettuces adorn the public grounds around the historic
statehouse. Madison, Wisc. staffers ripped out the flowers around the Capitol and replaced them with
potatoes, cabbage, carrots, corn, peppers, and tomatoes.
Municipal government officials have no doubt been inspired by First Lady Michelle Obama's
transformation of a portion of the White House South Lawn into a vegetable garden. But there's an
important distinction between the produce being grown at the White House and that at city hall. The food
from the First Family's garden is primarily for them and their dinner guests. At these green- thumbed city
halls, the growing of food is an endeavor by the people, for the people.
"I want people to see city hall differently -- that it's our public land, and that it works for us and with us,"
Sallie Marion, a Bainbridge Island resident who recently helped transform the landscaping around the
town's city hall into an edible bounty, told the Kitsap Sun. The volunteers planted more than 40 plants,
including cauliflower, kale, and strawberries, and any resident is welcome to grab a tomato and some
basil for their dinner. As another Bainbridge Islander remarked, "It's for people in need or people who just
want to try some fresh food."
The Bainbridge Island folk were inspired by the tale of Provo, Utah, where -- as in many municipalities
across the country -- the recession has reduced budgets and forced cutbacks on maintenance. Fussy
ornamental landscapes adorning civic places just don't seem a high financial priority for elected officials.
But nobody likes to look at empty plots of dirt or
Em
weed patches outside their window. So in Provo,
3 of4 08/06/2010 8:25 AM
Smart city governments grow produce for the people I Feeding the City I Grist http: / /www.grist.org/arfcle/ food - smart- city- governments -grow produce - f...
City planners in Provo, Utah germinated seeds for the city three planners volunteered their time to
hall plaza in their makeshift greenhouse -- in this case re- establish the landscape outside their city hall
their cubicles in city hall. -- but did so in a manner that adds immense
value to the landscape and the community. They
sowed melons, beans, cucumbers, and beets in the many brick planters.
During their first season (which was last year), the city planners harvested 350 pounds of produce from
250 square feet of dirt and donated it to the local food bank. This year, with a bit more gardening
know -how under their hats, they plan to cultivate an expanded 500 - square -foot space from which they
hope to reap more than 1,000 pounds -- quite a harvest from such diminutive plots. (The group is also
blogging the progress of the city hall "farm. ")
As with many of the urban agriculture projects, the
idea of growing food on municipal land is not new.
(See the introduction to the Feeding the Cities
series, "The History of Urban Agriculture Should
Inspire its Future. ") Vegetable gardens have helped
bolster America's food supply when times were
tough during the Long Depression of the 1890s and
the Great Depression, as well as both World Wars.
The most popular of these public veggie patches --
the Victory Gardens of World War II -- were planted
not only by patriotic citizens around the nation, but
by city governments in public spaces to provide,
teach, and inspire their people.
With unemployment in many cities, food stamp use, San Francisco planted a Victory Garden in front of its city
and pressure on food banks at an all -time high, it hall during World War II.
simply makes sense to grow food, not flowers,
where possible. Victory Gardens supplied the nation with 40 percent of its fresh vegetables. It is
staggering how much edible bounty can be produced from small -scale gardening efforts on public land.
The time is ripe to revisit Victory Gardens in public spaces: with just a little bit of organization and
encouragement from our government officials, we could bring the community together to brighten the
landscape and nourish the needy.
Darrin Nordahl is the city designer at the Davenport Design Center, a division of the Community &
Economic Development Department of the City of Davenport, Iowa. He has taught in the planning
program at the University of California at Berkeley and is the author of My Kind of Transit and Public
Produce, which makes a case for local government involvement in shaping food policy.
02010. Grist Maganne, Inc. All rights reserved. Gloom and doom vath a sense of humor0.
4 of 4 08/06/2010 8:25 AM
Page 1 of 1
Sarah Showalter
From: Kenneth Johnstone
Sent: Tuesday, December 07, 2010 8:16 AM
To: Sarah Showalter
Subject: FW: Urban Ag Stuff
This is Karen's list of items to look at from last night.
Ken Johnstone, A1CP
Community Development Director
Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033
Office Phone: 303 -23S -2£344
City of
1{°aLtt , C'.
FvLSJ17I 1'f C7 r..t I A") ml"
From: Karen Berry [mai1to:khberry26 @hotmai1.com1
Sent: Monday, December 06, 2010 7:58 PM
To: Kenneth Johnstone
Cc: Patrick Goff
Subject: Urban Ag Stuff
Here you go:
• Allow Community gardens outright in most zone districts
ow people to grow and sell unprocessed produce on their
property --�A ] i s i y
• Investigate and Remove any barriers to yard sharing
• Allow farmers markets in all commercial zoning including TOD
• Look at using city hall as a weekend farmers market
• Look at zoning incentives for permanent farmers markets
• 38 avenue zoning code to envourage small to mid size
grocery stores
• look at using parks and utizilied city land for community
gardens, CSA and market gardens
Ka,re Be-rry
c , Di4tr�ctr
303.249.4570
12/07/2010
CITY COUNCIL MEETING
City Council Chambers
7500 W. 29 Ave.
December B, 2010
y � f
Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to participate in all public meetings
sponsored by the City of Wheat Ridge. Call Heather Geyer, Public Information
Officer at 303 - 235 -2826 at least one week in advance of a meeting if you are
interested in participating and need inclusion assistance.
aga s •.
1. Staff Reports
2. Off -leash dog park committee report
3. Urban Agriculture (Live Well Wheat Ridge)
4. WR2020 — Strategic Plan Update
To: Wheat Ridge City Council
From: LiveWell Wheat Ridge
Date: December 6, 2010
Wheat Ridge Councilmembers:
A growing number of communities throughout Colorado and the U.S. are embracing urban agriculture. On
city- or county -owned plots, private property, office rooftops, on school grounds, and even on roadway
medians, people are experiencing the social, economic, environmental, physical, and mental benefits of this
exciting trend.
In Wheat Ridge, an increasing number of community members are similarly embracing urban agriculture on
private property, at community gardens, and on small family farms. Consistent with Goal SF -4.2 (Accessible
Healthy Foods) in the 2009 Envision Wheat Ridge Comprehensive Plan, the purpose of this study session is to
more closely examine this issue in the unique context of the Wheat Ridge community.
At tonight's session, we will examine successful examples of urban agriculture in Wheat Ridge, identify
inspiring case studies from other local communities, discuss the potential economic and health benefits of
supporting urban agriculture, and the interface between urban agriculture and Wheat Ridge's zoning code. In
particular, staff will ask for guidance from Council to proceed with potential zoning code amendments that
would clarify where different uses and activities related to urban agriculture are allowed.
Presenters include:
Sarah Showalter - Planner, City of Wheat Ridge
Suzanne Teale - Wheat Ridge resident and grower and a Wheat Ridge 2020 partner
Shannon Spurlock- Community Initiatives Coordinator, Denver Urban Gardens
Ted Heyd, Planning and Technical Consultant, LiveWell Wheat Ridge
We thank you very much for your time and consideration.
Ted Heyd
Technical and Planning Consultant
LiveWell Wheat Ridge
Molly Hanson
LiveWell Wheat Ridge Coordinator
Attachments:
- Two articles on the topic of Urban Agriculture
- Handout on the health benefits of community gardening from Denver Urban Gardens
gardens growing
rese
healthy communities
Colorado School of Public Health &Denver Urban Gardens
an ecological place
to grow food, be active
and enjoy nature
in an urban setting
a social place
to work together to
improve the quality of
individual and community lives
a cultural place
to develop and express place -based
aesthetic, spiritual and environmental
and values
an individual place
where participants are empowered to cultivate relationships:
engaging in meaningful activities together, learning from each other, and giving back to others
a healthy place
An example of an everyday
neighborhood landscape,
community gardens are
affordable and accessible
to everyone, regardless of age,
' income, education or background.
Participation requires active engagement both
with nature in the growing of fresh food and with
family, friends and neighbors through social interaction.
Thus, community gardens embody natural, highly valued places
that strengthen neighborhoods and promote healing, health and wellness.
Background: The Healthy People 2010 Initiative, a national framework for public health prevention, suggests that
individual health is almost inseparable from the health of the larger community. Understanding and improving this larger
community - the places people live, work and recreate - will go a long way to promoting health and strengthening
neighborhoods. Since 2004 Denver Urban Gardens and the Colorado School of Public Health have worked togeth
through the "Gardens for Growing Healthy Communities" community -based research initiative, to explore how gardens,
neighborhood places, support healthy living. (Funded by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's Health Protection
Research Initiative and extended by additional funding from the Colorado Clinical and Translational Sciences Institute and the
J.R. Albert Foundation.)
Key Findings ":
• 100% of community gardeners stated that their main reasons for gardening were to be outside in nature and to
get their hands dirty. Almost 80% of them gardened as children.
• More than 50% of community gardeners meet national guidelines for fruit and vegetable intake, compared
to 25% of non - gardeners.
• As well as eating better and being more active, gardeners are more involved in social activities, view their
neighborhoods as more beautiful, and have stronger ties to their neighborhoods.
• 95% of community gardeners give away some of the produce they grow to friends, family and people in need;
60% specifically donate to food assistance programs.
• In addition to more positive ratings of physical and mental health, gardeners see the world differently...
emotionally, spiritually and culturally, as well as socially and environmentally.
• Community gardens promote stronger neighborhood leadership, outreach, and volunteerism.
• 88% of people who do not garden want to see gardens in their neighborhood.
Rx for Healthy Place- Making: This research highlights the importance of intentionally supporting neighborhood
environments and social processes that give way to a strong sense of community, also referred to as "healthy place- making"
and that healthy places are especially important when they embody a diverse range of ecological, social and culturE
attributes. Community gardens demonstrate one very viable strategy to achieve healthy place- making and foster improved
health when the:
Ecological attributes of gardens reflect a place:
• to be outside in nature and to get hands dirty
• to grow plants - flowers, herbs and food crops
• that can be used for multiple purposes
• that is central, visible and accessible
• that serves as a local destination
• that promotes interactions with nature, people and
environmental values
Social attributes of gardens reflect a place:
• to socialize and get to know your neighbors
• to build trust and develop pride
• to receive and offer encouragement
Cultural attributes of gardens reflect a place:
• to develop emotional and spiritual connections
• to express heritage and traditions
• to develop a worldview
• to share stories, successes and food
• to foster respect for others and bridge generations
• to build a stronger sense of community
• to develop unique community identity
• for participants and neighborhood residents to
experience beauty
Conclusion: When a neighborhood place embodies these ecological, social and cultural attributes, it becomes a place
that naturally promotes wellness. Thus, a community garden is more than a good idea among a select
group of people; it is a community model for healthy living.
Contacts: Dr. Jill Litt, Principal Investigator, Colorado School of Public Health: iill.litt@ucdenver.edu
Michael Buchenau, Executive Director, Denver Urban Gardens: michael@dua.oro
For more information about the research, including companion manuscripts, please visit www.dug.org /GGHC
"These are partially unpublished findings, do not cite without permission.
ri
City of LAND USE APPLICATION FORM
Wheat N
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;Showalter
Case Description Amend Chapter 26 concerning Urban Agriculture
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