HomeMy WebLinkAboutZOA-09-02CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBERBERRY
Council Bill No. 19
Ordinance No. 1448
Series of 2009
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING VARIOUS SECTIONS OF CHAPTER 26
OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS CONCERNING
RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS (CASE NO. ZOA-09- 02)
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 Council of the City of Wheat Ridge finds that the proposed amendments
implement recommendations from the adopted Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT
RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1: Section 26-120 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26-120. Nonconforming lots, uses and structures.
C. Nonconforming structures and uses: Where a structure or use lawfully existed at the time of the
adoption or amendment of this chapter which could not be built under the current requirements of this
chapter because of lot area, lot coverage, required yards or the location of the structure on the lot, such
structure or use may be continued so long as it remains otherwise lawful, subject to the following.
1. Any one- or two-family dwelling structure or customary accessory structures may be enlarged,
altered or added to provided that all lot coverage requirements of the zoning district in which the
structure is located are met, and provided that the enlargement, alteration or addition does not.increase
the extent of nonconforming setbacks by encroaching beyond the existing setback line. In instances of
corner lots, no enlargement, alteration or addition shall be permitted to encroach within the minimum
sight distance triangle as set forth in section 26-603B. In addition, no enlargement, alteration or
addition which extends within the nonconforming area shall result in the development of any additional
dwelling units.
2. If any structure or nonconforming portion thereof is demolished or reconstructed by the owner to an
extent of more than fifty (50) percent of its replacement cost, it shall not be reconstructed except in
conformity with the applicable provisions of this chapter.
3. If any structure should for any reason be moved from its location at the time of adoption or
amendment of this chapter, it shall conform to the provisions of the district in which t is located after
it is moved.
4. No existing structure devoted to a use not permitted by this chapter in the district in which located
shall be enlarged, extended, constructed, reconstructed, moved or structurally altered except in
changing the use of the structure to a use permitted in the district in which it is located.
5. Any nonconforming use may be extended throughout any part of the building which was designed
or arranged for such use at the time of adoption or amendment of this chapter, but no such use shall be
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards - i
extended to occupy any land outside such building. In addition, no such use shall be extended to any
portion of the property outside of any building which was not used for said nonconforming use at the
time of the adoption or amendment of this chapter creating said nonconforming use.
6. Whenever any nonconforming use of a structure, or land, or a structure and land in combination is
discontinued for sixty (60) consecutive days or six (6) months during any three-year period (except
when government action impedes access to the property) the structure, or structure and premises in
combination shall not thereafter be devoted to a use not permitted in the district in which is located.
Nonconforming residential structures and uses are exempt from the provisions of this subparagraph.
Rezoning or special use permit applications for properties which are nonconforming uses at the time of
application, and where these applications are intended to bring the nonconforming use into use
conformance, shall not be charged application fees or be required to reimburse the city for direct
expenses related to the application review process.
7. Setback encroachments for accessory buildings may be allowed where the principal structure
encroaches into required setbacks in accordance with Section 26-625.
Section 2: Sections 26-205 - 26-214 of the Code are amended to read:
Sec. 26-205. Residential-One District (R-1)
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low-
density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are incompatible with
the low-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
Mi
i
Mi
i
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Minimum
Rear
Maximum
Building
n
mum
n
mum
Front
Y
d
HeiOt
Coverage
Lot
Area
Lot
Width
Yard
Yard
Setback
ar
Setback
Setback (a)
(b)
Principal
One-family
35'
25%
12,500 sf
100'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Buildings
dwelling
Group home
35'
25%
12,500 sf
100'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Churches,
schools,
government
and quasi-
government
buildings,
golf courses,
small day
35'
25%
1 acre
200'
30' (c)
15' (e)
20'
care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
i.
congregate
care homes
Accessory I
Major
15'
1,000 sf
N/A
N/A
30'(c)
15'
15'
Buil'd'ings
`d
Minor
10'
400 sf
N/A
N/A
30'(c)
15'
15'
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Notes:
(a) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(b) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30)
feet for all structures.
(c) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced
to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at
the end of section 26-123)
(d) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(e) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 1, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-206. Residential-One A District (R-1A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low-
density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are incompatible with
the low-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TAB? E INSET:
Maxi . Muni
Hei
ht
Maximum
Building
Minimum
Lot
Minimum
Lot
Minimum
Front
Yard
minimum
Side
Yard
Minimum
Rear
Yard
g
Coverage
Area
Width
Setback (a)
Setback
Setback
Principal
One-family
35'
30%
000 sf
9
75'
25' (c)
10'
IS'
Buildings
dwelling
,
Group home
35'
30%
9,000 sf
75'
25' (c)
10'
15'
Churches,
schools,
government
and quasi-
government
buildings, golf
courses, small
day care
35'
30%
1 acre
200'
25' (c)
15' (e)
20'
center, and
nursing,
elderly and
congregate
care homes
Accessory,,
Buildings
(d).
Major
15'
1,000 sf
N/A
N/A
25' (c)
5' if 10'
5' if
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 10' if> 10' height; 10'
Notes:
(a) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(b) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five
(25) feet for all structures.
(c) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced
to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at
the end of section 26-123)
(d) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(e) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
Sec. 26-207. Residential-One B District.
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable small
lot, low-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the low-density residential character.
B. Development standards.-
TABLE INSET:]
Maximum
Maximum
Building
Minimum
Lot
Minimum
Lot
Minimum
Front
Minimum
Side
Yard
Minimum
Rear
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
Width (a)
Yard
Setback (b)
Setback
Setback
Principal
One-family
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
25' (d)
5' (e)
10'
Buildings
dwelling
Group home
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
25' (d)
5' (e)
10'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' (d)
15' (g)
20'
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
minimum
Rear
Maximum
Building
Lot
Front
Y
d
Hei
ht
Coverage
Lot
Width (a)
Yard
Yard
ar
g
Area
Setback (b)
Setback
Setback
Accessory,
5' if 10
Buildings `
'
'
in height;
Major
15'
600 sf
N/A
N/A
(d)
25
5
10' if> 10'
in height
Minor
10'
300 sf
N/A
N/A
25'(d)
5'
5'
All Other Uses
35'
40%
9,000 sf
60'
25'(d)
5' (e)
10'
Notes:
(a) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(b) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five
(25) feet for all structures.
(d) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced
to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at
the end of section 26-123)
(e) A total of fifteen (15) feet side yard setback for every individual lot with a minimum of five (5)
feet on one (1) side.
(f) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(g) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 3, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-208. Residential-One C District (R-1C).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable,
medium-density single-family residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which
are incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maxi .
mum
H
i
ht
Maximum
Building
Minimum
Lot
Minimum
Lot
Width (a)
Minimum
Front
Yard
Minimum
Side
Yard
Minimum
Rear
Yard
e
g
Coverage
Principal
One-family
35'
40%
000 sf
5
50'
20' (d)
5'
5'
Buildings
dwelling
,
Group home
35'
40%
5,000 sf
50'
20' (d)
5'
5'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
15'
20'
buildings, golf
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Notes:
(a) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(b) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty (20)
feet for all structures.
(d) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced
to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at
the end of section 26-123)
(e) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 3, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-209. Residential-Two District (R-2).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low
to moderate-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
H
i
ht
Maximum
Building
Minimum
Lot
Minimum
Lot
Width (a)
minimum
Front
Yard
Minimum
Side
Yard
minimum
Rear
Yard
e
g
Coverage
Area
Setback (b)
Setback
(c)
Setback
Principal
One-family
35'
40%
000 sf
9
75'
25' (d)
5' (e)
10'
Buildings
dwelling
,
Two-family
35'
40%
12,500 sf
100'
25' (d)
5' per story
10'
dwelling
(e)
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25'(d)
(e) per story
10'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' (d)
15'(g)
20'
buildings, golf
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Minimum
Rear
Maximum
H
i
ht
Building
Lot
Lot
Width (a)
Front
Yard
Yard
Yard
e
g
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
5' if 10'
Buildings
Major
15'
1,000 sf per
25' (d)
5'
in height; 10'
(B
unit
N/A
N/A
if> 10' in
height
Minor
10'
400 sf
N/A
N/A
25' (d)
5'
5'
All Other Uses
35'
40%
9,000sf
75'
25' (d)
5' (e)
10'
Notes:
(a) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(b) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five
(25) feet for all structures.
(d) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced
to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at
the end of section 26-123)
(e) A total of fifteen (15) feet side yard setback for every individual lot with a minimum of five (5)
feet on one (1) side.
(f) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(g) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
See. 26-210. Residential-Two A District (R-2A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
Maximum
Building
Minimum
Minimum
Lot
Minimum
Front
Minimum
Side
Minimum
Rear
Height
Covet-age
Area
Setback ,
,
Principal
Buildings
One-family
dwelling
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
25' (d)
5' (d)
10'
Two-family
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25' (d)
5' per
10'
dwelling
story
10' for one
Multifamily
13
050 sf
'
5'Per
or two story
(3/more
35'
40%
,
(e)
100'
25
(d)
story
buildings;
'
dwelling units)
15
for three
story
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25' (d)
5' per story
10'
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Minimum
Rear
Maximum
Building
Lot
Lot
Front
Yard
Yard
Height
Covera-e
Area
Width (a)
Yard
Setback (b)
Setback
Setback
Churches,
schools,
government
and quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' (d)
15'(f)
20'
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
'
congregate care
homes
Accessory ,
5' if 10'
Buildings
Maj
or
15'
600 sf (per
25'(d)
5'
in height; 10'
(g)
unit)
N/A
N/A
if> 10' in
height
400 sf/4
N/A
N/A
Minor
10'
d.u.
25'(d)
5'
5'
All Other Uses
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'(g)
25' (d)
5'
10'
Notes:
(a) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(b) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five
(25) feet for all structures.
(d) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut
cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac
bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(e) A minimum of four thousand three hundred fifty (4,350) square feet of land area shall be
required for each dwelling unit for multifamily buildings.
(f) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(g) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-2A district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all
of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 6, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-211. Residential-Three District (R-3).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium to high-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium to high-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Minimum
Rear
Maximum
Lot
Front
Y
d
H
i
h
Building
Lot
Width (a)
Yard
Yard
ar
e
g
t
Coverage
Area
Setback (b)
(d)
principal
One-family
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60 (g t)
25' (e)
5'
10'
Buildings
dwelling
Two-family
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75' (g f)
25' (e)
5' per
10,
dwelling
story
Multifamily
12
500 sf
'
'
(3/more dwelling
35'
40%
,
(e)
100'
25' (e)
15
(c)
15
(c)
units)
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25' (e)
T per
story
10'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' (e)
15' (b)
20'
-
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory i
5' if 10'
Buildings
Major
IS'
600 sf (per
25' (e)
5'
in height;
'
'
(g)
unit)
N/A
N/A
if> 10
10
in height
Minor
10'
400 sf/4
N/A
N/A
25' (e)
5'
5'
d.u.
All Other Uses
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
25' (e)
5' per
10'
story
Notes:
(a) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(b) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c) Side and rear yard setback shall be fifteen (15) feet for the first two (2) stories and an additional
five (5) feet for each additional story over two (2) stories.
(d) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five
(25) feet for all structures.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
(e) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut
cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac
bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(f) A minimum of three thousand six hundred thirty (3,630) square feet of land area shall be
required for each dwelling unit for multifamily buildings.
(g) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-3 district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all of
the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 7, 10-27-03)
See. 26-212. Residential-Three A District (R-3A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
M
i
Minimum
Minimum
Minim n
m
Minimum
Side
Minimum
Rear
Maxi .
mum
H
i
ht
ax
mum
Building
Lot
Lot
Width (a)
Front
Yard
Yard
Yard
e
g
Coverage
Area
Setback (b)
Setback
(d)
Setback
Principal -
One-family
35'
40%
500 sf
7
60' (g)
25' (e)
5'
10'
Buildings
dwelling
,
Two-family
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75' (g)
25' (e)
T per
10'
dwelling
story
Multifamily
12
500 sf
'
'
(3/more dwelling
35'
40%
,
100'
25' (e)
15
(c)
15
(c)
units)
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25'(e)
5' per
10'
'
Churches, schools,
government
buildings, golf
courses, small day
35
40%
1 acre
200'
25'
15'(c)
20'
care center, &
nursing, elderly
and congregate
care homes
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 10
400 sf/4
N/A
N/A
Minor
10'
d.u.
25'(e)
5'
5'
All Other Uses
'
'
5' per
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60
25
(e)
10'
sto
rY
Notes:
(a) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(b) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c) Side and rear yard setback shall be fifteen (15) feet for the first two (2) stories and an additional
five (5) feet for each additional story over two (2) stories.
(d) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five
(25) feet for all structures.
(e) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut
cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac
bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(f) A minimum of three thousand six hundred thirty (3,960) square feet of land area shall be
required for each dwelling unit for multifamily buildings.
(g) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-3A district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all
of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 7, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-213. Agricultural-One District (A-1).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide a high quality, safe, quiet and stable
residential estate living environment within a quasi-rural or agricultural setting. In addition to large lot,
single-family residential and related uses, agricultural uses and activities will exist and be encouraged
to continue.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 11
H
i
h
111aximuni
Buildino
Lo
t
A rea (d
Lot
Front
Yard
side
Yard
Real,
Yard
e
g
t
Co% erage
h)
th
Will
Setback
Setback
(a)
Setback
(b)
Principal
One-family
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Buildings
dwelling
Group home
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Churches, schools,
government and
quasi-government
buildings, golf
courses, small day
35'
25%
1 acre
200'
30'(c)
15'
20'
care center, and
nursing, elderly
and congregate
care homes
Accessory
Major
35'
25%
N/A
N/A
30' (c)
15'
5'
Buildings
Minor
35'
25%
N/A
N/A
30'
15'
5'
e
All Other Uses
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30'
15'
15'
Notes:
(a) Any side yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for
all structures.
(b) Any rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for
all structures, except where greater setbacks are specifically required.
(c) Front setbacks for one-family or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots
which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a
cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(d) Lots smaller than one (1) acre may be used only for residential purposes.
(e) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01)
Sec. 26-214. Agricultural-Two Zone District (A-2).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide a reasonably compatible transition
between residential and more intensive agricultural land uses. It provides for large-lot, residential estate
living while allowing more commercially oriented, yet still agricultural operations. Design standards
have been included where possible to provide a reasonable interface between the two (2) extremes.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 12
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-government
buildings, golf
courses, small
35'
25%
1 acre
200'
30' (c)
15'
20'
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
Major
35'
25%
N/A
N/A
30' (c)
15'
5'
Buildings
Minor
35'
25%
N/A
N/A
30' (d)
15'
5'
All Other Uses
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30'
15'
15'
Notes:
(a) Any side yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for
all structures.
(b) Any rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for
all structures, except where greater setbacks are specifically required.
(c) Front setbacks for one-family or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots
which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a
cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(d) Accessory buildings housing livestock (including poultry, kennels and rabbits) shall be set back
one hundred (100) feet from the front property line. All other accessory buildings not listed
shall have a minimum front setback of seventy-five (75) feet.
(e) Lots smaller than one (1) acre may be used only for residential purposes.
(f) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01)
Section 3: Section 26-123 of the Code is amended to read:
See. 26-123. Definitions.
For the purpose of this zoning code, and as used or referred to in other sections, chapters or articles of the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, unless specifically defined otherwise, the following words and terms are
defined as follows. Words used in the present tense include the future; words in the singular number
include the plural, and words in the plural number include the singular; the word "building" includes the
word "structure" and the word "shall" is mandatory and not directory. Any word or term used in this
chapter not specifically defined above shall be interpreted as that word is defined elsewhere in the Wheat
Ridge Code of Laws, or if not defined elsewhere in the Code of Laws, as defined in Colorado Revised
Statutes, or if not defined in the statutes, as defined in Webster's Dictionary.
Setback line, rear. A line parallel with a rear lot line of a lot, tangent to that part of a building situated
on such lot which is closest to such side lot line and intersecting two (2) other lot lines of such lot. In
instances where rear setbacks are based on the number of stories, the setback shall be measured from a
line parallel with the applicable lot line to the closest point of the additional story. (See Figure 26-
123.1).
Setback line, side. A line parallel with a side lot line of a lot, tangent to that part of a building situated
on such lot which is closest to such side lot line and intersecting two (2) other lot lines of such lot. In
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 13
instances where rear setbacks are based on the number of stories, the setback shall be measured from a
line parallel with the applicable lot line to the closest point of the additional story. (See Figure 26-
123.1).
Per story setback measured
from the closest point of the
additional story
10'
10'
Side/Rear
Setback
10' per story (in
this example)
Figure 26-123.1: Where side and rear setbacks are based
on the number of stories of the building, the setback is
measured from the closest point of the additional story,
not the first story. In this example, the closest point of
the third floor must be setback 15 feet (5 foot per story).
Section 4: Section 26-306 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26-611. Building setbacks.
A. Generally, building setback shall be measured at right angles from the closest property line to the
outermost wall of a building. In residential zone districts only, encroachments into required setback
areas shall not be permitted except as follows, provided however, that no encroachment into a side or
rear yard is allowed in the NC, RC, C-1, C-2, or I zone districts when adjacent to a residentially zoned
property:
1. Porches, patios, decks and balconies
Porches, patios, decks and balconies which are open on at least two (2) sides may encroach into a front
setback up to eight feet or into a side or rear yard a maximum of one-third the distance to the closest
property line.
2. Architectural features
Cornices, eaves, beltcourses, sills, canopies or other similar architectural features, including bay
windows, may extend or project into a required front, side or rear yard not more than thirty (30)
inches.
3. Chimneys
Chimneys may project into a required front, "side or rear yard not more than two (2) feet, provided the
width of such yard is not reduced to less than three (3) feet.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 14
4. Fire escapes, open stairways
A fire escape or open stairway may extend into any front, side or rear yard, provided the width of such
yard is not reduced to less than three (3) feet.
5. Nonconforming setbacks
Where there are existing setback encroachments that lawfully existed in accordance with Section 26-
120 (Nonconforming lots, uses and structures), additions and new buildings may be allowed setback
encroachments in accordance with Section 26-120 and Section 26-625, (Accessory Buildings).
B. Allowed Front Yard Setback Encroachments for Principal Buildings
If fifty (50) percent or more of the main buildings within a built-up area in any district have more or
less than the required front yard, each new main building may have a front yard consistent with the
average building setbacks in the immediate area, except that for the purpose of computing such
average, a front yard setback less that fifteen (15) feet shall be deemed to be fifteen (15) feet. For the
purpose of this regulation, an immediate area shall be deemed "built-up" if fifty (50) percent or more of
the lots within the same block and within two hundred (200) feet on each side lot line within the same
block of any particular lot have been improved with buildings (See Figure 26-611.1). However, in no
instance shall a structure encroach into a required sight distance triangle.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 9, 10-27-03)
NEW
ORM
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 15
Section 5: Section 26-625 of the Code is amended to read:
Section 26-625 Accessory Buildings
A. Purpose
The purpose of this section is to allow accessory buildings that are incidental and subordinate to the
principal use and structure on a property and to set forth standards that help to minimize adverse
impacts of these buildings on adjacent property. The purpose of this section is also to allow
flexibility to construct accessory buildings on challenging properties relative to size and existing
physical improvements while minimizing adverse impacts on surrounding properties.
B. Applicability
All accessory buildings on residentially zoned property shall be subject to the provisions set forth in
this section, and those in Sections 26-205 to 26-214 (residential and agricultural zone district
regulations). In the event of a conflict between the accessory building standards in this section and
any other requirements of this Code, this section shall control.
C. Accessory Building Standards
1. General Standards
a. Location
i. No accessory building shall be located on a vacant lot devoid of any primary or main
building.
ii. No accessory building shall be located within any platted or recorded easement or over
any utility, except as otherwise expressly agreed to in writing by the City or utility
provider, as applicable.
b. Size and Height
The size and height of accessory buildings shall be as set forth in the residential zone
district regulations in Sections 26-205 to 26-214.
c. Miscellaneous Provisions
i. Metal Accessory Building Restriction
Metal accessory buildings over 120 square feet are not permitted in any residential
zoning district. Frame-built residential accessory structures over 120 square feet in size
may be allowed to have metal siding as long as the material has a textured wood grain
appearance similar to horizontal clapboard. Vertically placed vinyl-clad siding is not
allowed.
ii. Buildings Housing Animals
Any building that houses animals, except a residence, shall be setback a minimum of
fifteen (15) feet from property lines and at least thirty (30) feet from a residential
structure on an adjacent property, except as otherwise specified in any zone district.
iii. Gates and Guard Houses
Gates and guard houses are only allowed as part of an approved planned development.
iv. Dwelling Unit Restriction
Except as otherwise expressly allowed, no dwelling unit shall be located in any
accessory.
2. Major and Minor Accessory Buildings
Major and minor accessory buildings shall be as defined in Sections 26-205 to Section 26-214
based on size and height.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 16
3. Allowable Setback Encroachments for Accessory Buildings
Accessory buildings may encroach into required setbacks as set forth below:
a. Front Yards and Side and Rear Yards Abutting Public Streets
Where an existing principal building that lawfully existed at the time of the adoption or
amendment of this section encroaches into a required front yard setback or a required side
or rear yard setback abutting a public street, an accessory building may encroach into the
required setback as follows, provided that there shall be no encroachment into the minimum
sight distance triangle as set forth in section 26-603B:
i. Detached Garages and Carports
Detached garages and carports may build in line with the nonconforming principal
building, as long as the detached garage is located behind the front or street-facing
fayade of the principal building, except as follows:
a) Where the garage door or main vehicular access is located parallel to the street,
setback cannot be between five
(5) feet and eighteen (18) feet.
The purpose of this regulation is
to allow setback encroachments
where there will be not be the
possibility of vehicles parked in
the driveway in conflict with
public rights-of-way. (See Figures
26-625.1)
b) Where the garage door or main
vehicular access is located
perpendicular to the street, the
detached garage or carport may be
built in line with the principal
building. The purpose of this
regulation is to allow setback
encroachments where there will
be not be the possibility of
vehicles parked in the driveway in
conflict with public rights-of-way.
c) Where the garage door or main
vehicular access is located parallel
to and accessed off of an arterial
street, the detached garage may
not encroach into the required
setback.
d) The Community Development
Director may require modified
setbacks in these instances where
there may be potentially hazardous conditions.
the
ii. All Other Accessory Buildings
Accessory buildings that do not have any vehicular access may build in line with the
nonconforming principal structure in front yards and side and rear yards abutting public
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 17
streets, as long as the accessory building is located behind the front or street-facing
fagade of the principal structure.
Section 6. Safety Clause, The City of Wheat Ridge 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 7. Severability. If any clause, sentence, paragraph, or part of this Zoning Code or the
application thereof to any person or circumstances shall for any reason be adjusted by a court of
competent jurisdiction invalid, such judgment shall not affect application to other persons or
circumstances.
Section 8. Supersession Clause. If any provision, requirements or standard established by this
Ordinance is found to conflict with similar provisions, requirements or standards found elsewhere in
the Code of Laws of the City of Wheat Ridge, which are in existence as of the date of adoption of this
Ordinance, the provisions, requirements and standards here shall supersede and prevail.
Section 7. This Ordinance shall take effect 15 days after final publication.
INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of 8 to 0 on this 3rd_
day of August, 2009, ordered published in full in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of
Wheat Ridge and Public Hearing and consideration on final passage set for August 24, 2009, at 7:00
o'clock p.m., in the Council Chambers, 7500 West 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by a vote of 6 to
6 this 24th day of August 2009.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this 25th day of August , 2009.
Je iTullio, Mayor
ATTEST:
Michael Snow, City Clerk
Ap ;dDahl, d to fo C t rney
GerCity Attorney
I st publication: August 6, 2009
2nd publication: August 27, 2009
Wheat Ridge Transcript
Effective Date: September 11, 2009
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 18
CITY COUNCIL MINUTES: August 24, 2009 Page -6-
Franchise for another 20 years with some changes proposed by and accepted with the
City of Wheat Ridge.
Craig Graham expressed concern that with a 20-year franchise in place residents may
be stuck with whatever future energy sources are used by PSCo.
Mr. Dahl explained that the Franchise does not in any way limit or mandate how
alternative energy sources may be employed by property owners.
Mayor DiTullio closed the public hearing.
Motion by Mrs. Sang to adopt Council Bill 23-2009 (Ordinance 1451) on second
reading, and that it take effect upon approval by a vote of the registered electors of the
City at the November 3, 2009 Regular Municipal Election; seconded by Mr. Stites;
carried 7-1 with Ms. Berry voting No.
3. Council Bill 19-2009 - An Ordinance amending the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws
concerning Residential Development Standards.
(Case No. ZOA-09-02)
Mayor DiTullio opened the public hearing.
Council Bill 19-2009 was introduced on second reading by Council Member Berry. City
Clerk Michael Snow assigned Ordinance No. 1448.
Mr. Reckert presented the staff report.
Louise Turner highlighted how the current setbacks of 30 feet has resulted in Wheat
Ridge being a city with beautiful, pleasant looking neighborhoods. She believes it will
be disruptive to suddenly allow houses to be built on a 25 foot setback right next to
existing ones of 30 feet. Variances given to the current setbacks have invariably
resulted in degradation in the quality of a neighborhood. Variances are no longer heard
by the volunteer citizen Board of Adjustments, but instead are granted by the City Staff,
who should be upholding the City's code, not circumventing it. Many of the powers that
citizens once had to control the quality of their neighborhoods is no longer available.
She encouraged the Council to remove the Main Structure provisions of this Code
change.
Mayor DiTullio closed the public hearing.
Motion by Ms. Berry to adopt Council Bill 19-2009 (Ordinance 1448) on second reading,
and that it take effect 15 days after final publication; seconded by Mrs. Sang; carried 6-2
with Council Members Gokey and Womble voting No.
Council gave unanimous consent to hear Agenda Item 7 next.
Case No. ZOA-09-02
iveignpornooa Kevtzaiizaiion -)iraiegy
Case No. ZOA-09-02
restricted
• NRS wants to encourage investment in
residential property
Wkl:".ll:. ICkgE`.
Case No. ZOA-09-02
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W heat. }~c3~
Case No. ZOA-09-02
Case No. ZOA-09-02
Case No. ZOA-09-02
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Council Action Item
August 24, 2009
Page 3
property line, while a 15' tall detached garage must be 10' from a side/rear property line. (See
Exhibit 2 of Planning Commission report)
• Requiring 30' front setbacks in all districts is a more substantial requirement than any
jurisdiction surveyed (see comparable jurisdiction survey in Exhibit 1 of Planning Commission
report), and it also discourages pedestrian friendly development.
• Requiring 30' front and street setbacks for corner lots creates a very small buildable area for
these properties.
• The only two accessory buildings addressed are detached garages and storage sheds. Buildings
such as gazebos, barns, greenhouses, and other accessory buildings should be addressed rather
than interpreted on a case-by-case basis.
The intent of the attached ordinance is to provide more consistency and flexibility in the treatment of
principal versus accessory buildings, as well as provide some modest front setback reductions to better
encourage a pedestrian-friendly development pattern in most residential zone districts.
Proposed changes to the individual residential zone district development standards
The following is a district-by-district summary of the changes:
District
All districts
Stunniary of Changes to Development Standards
• Detached garages/carports and storage sheds as
only accessory buildings regulated to major and
minor accessory buildings classification.
• Reference to new accessory buildings section.
Residential-One District (R-1)
• None
Residential-One A District (R-IA)'
• Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side/rear setbacks for major accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 5' if
10' height, 10' if > 10'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 5'
Residential-One B District (R-113)
• Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 5'
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 10 if >101
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 5'
Residential-One C District (R-1C)'
• Front/street setback: 30' to 20'
• Side/rear setbacks for all accessory buildings: 5'
if 8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 5'
Council Action Item
August 24, 2009
Page 4
District
Summary of Chan.ges to Development Standards
Residential-Two District (R-2)
• Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 10 if>10'
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Side/rear setbacks for principal buildings, two
family and group homes: 5' to 5' per story
Residential-Two A District (R-2A)
• Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 5'
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 10 if>10'
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 5'
• Eliminate 5' per story side setback for single
family residential
Residential-Three District (R-3)
• Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 10 if>10'
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 5'
• Eliminate 5' per story side setback for single
family residential
Residential-Three A District (R-3A)
• Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 10 if >101
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Eliminate 5' per story side setback for single
family residential
Agricultural One (A-1)
• None, but new reference to major vs. minor
accessory buildings.
Agricultural Two (A-2)
• None, but new reference to major vs. minor
accessory buildings.
Council Action Item
August 24, 2009
Page 5
Classifying Accessory Buildings
As recommended by the Planning Commission, staff has proposed classifying accessory buildings as
major and minor, rather than the current detached garages and sheds. Major accessory buildings would
have the same size and height restrictions as detached garages currently do, and similarly minor accessory
buildings would have size restrictions similar to that of storage sheds under the current code. Under the
proposed regulations, the size of the structure is the determining factor in its classification regardless of
the use.
In addition to the size and height restrictions, the main difference between major and minor accessory
buildings is more restrictive setbacks in most districts. The general philosophy behind staff's
recommendation is to treat major accessory buildings similar to how the principal structure is treated
relative to setbacks, with lesser setbacks for minor accessory buildings. With this, where the principal
structure has side or rear setbacks 10' or greater, major accessory structures would have 5' side/rear
setbacks when less than 10' in height, and 10' side/rear setbacks when greater than 10' in height.
Minor accessory buildings generally would have 5' side and rear setbacks regardless.
Allowable Setback Encroachments
In order to provide more flexibility on challenging lots where there are existing principal structure
setback encroachments, staff has proposed allowing limited encroachments for accessory buildings in
these situations. Under the proposed ordinance, where the principal structure encroaches into required
front and street setbacks, the accessory structure may build in line with this encroachment. Detached
garages are given special consideration, as there may be issues with vehicles encroaching into the right-
of-way where there is limited depth for a driveway along the street. The ordinance is written so that a
typical vehicle would either fit onto a driveway in these situations, or it would be unlikely a vehicle
would attempt to park there at all. This is accomplished by specifying that there cannot be a setback
between 5' and 18' from the street, as the typical vehicle depth to accommodate a vehicle is 18'.
ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:
Do not approve the proposed legislation.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
None.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
"I move to adopt Council Bill No. 19-2009, Case #ZOA-09-02, an ordinance amending Chapter 26
of the Code of Laws concerning residential development standards, on second reading, and that it
take effect 15 days after publication."
Or,
Council Action Item
August 24, 2009
Page 6
"I move to table indefinitely Council Bill No. 19-2009, Case #ZOA-09-02, an ordinance amending
Chapter 26 of the Code of Laws concerning residential development standards, for the following
reasons:
Report Prepared by: Meredith Reckert, Senior Planner
Report Reviewed by: Kenneth Johnstone, Community Development Director
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Council Bill No. 19-2009 (with strike-throughs and bold)
2. Council Bill No. 19-2009 (without strike-throughs and bold)
3. Planning Commission report
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
Council Bill No. 19-2009
Ordinance No.
Series of 2009
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING VARIOUS SECTIONS OF CHAPTER
26 OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS CONCERNING
RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS (CASE NO. ZOA-09-
02)
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 Council of the City of Wheat Ridge finds that the proposed amendments
implement recommendations from the adopted Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT
RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1: Section 26-120 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26-120. Nonconforming lots, uses and structures.
C. Nonconforming structures and uses: Where a structure or use lawfully existed at the time of the
adoption or amendment of this chapter which could not be built under the current requirements of this
chapter because of lot area, lot coverage, required yards or the location of the structure on the lot, such
structure or use maybe continued so long as it remains otherwise lawful, subject to the following.
1. Any one- or two-family dwelling structure or customary accessory structures maybe enlarged,
altered or added to provided that all lot coverage requirements of the zoning district in which the
structure is located are met, and provided that the enlargement, alteration or addition does not increase
the extent of nonconforming setbacks by encroaching beyond the existing setback line. In instances of
corner lots, no enlargement, alteration or addition shall be permitted to encroach within the minimum
sight distance triangle as set forth in section 26-603B. In addition, no enlargement, alteration or addition
which extends within the nonconforming area shall result in the development of any additional dwelling
units.
2. If any structure or nonconforming portion thereof is demolished or reconstructed by the owner to an
extent of more than fifty (50) percent of its replacement cost, it shall not be reconstructed except in
conformity with the applicable provisions of this chapter.
3. If any structure should for any reason be moved from its location at the time of adoption or
amendment of this chapter, it shall conform to the provisions of the district in which it is located after it
.s moved.
4. No existing structure devoted to a use not permitted by this chapter in the district in which located
shall be enlarged, extended, constructed, reconstructed, moved or structurally altered except in changing
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards ATTACHMENT 1
the use of the structure to a use permitted in the district in which it is located.
5. Any nonconforming use maybe extended throughout any part of the building which was designed or
arranged for such use at the time of adoption or amendment of this chapter, but no such use shall be
extended to occupy any land outside such building. In addition, no such use shall be extended to any
portion of the property outside of any building which was not used for said nonconforming use at the
time of the adoption or amendment of this chapter creating said nonconforming use.
6. Whenever any nonconforming use of a structure, or land, or a structure and land in combination is
discontinued for sixty (60) consecutive days or six (6) months during any three-year period (except when
government action impedes access to the property) the structure, or structure and premises in
combination shall not thereafter be devoted to a use not permitted in the district in which is located.
Nonconforming residential structures and uses are exempt from the provisions of this subparagraph.
Rezoning or special use permit applications for properties which are nonconforming uses at the time of
application, and where these applications are intended to bring the nonconforming use into use
conformance, shall not be charged application fees or be required to reimburse the city for direct
exuenses related to the annlication review process.
Section 2: Sections 26-205 - 26-214 of the Code are amended to read:
Sec. 26-205. Residential-One District (R-1)
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low-
density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are incompatible with
the low-density residential character.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Notes:
a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet
for all structures.
( b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
section 26-123)
Sec. 26-206. Residential-One A District (R-IA).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low-
density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are incompatible with
the low-density residential character.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 1, 10-27-03)
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Principal One-family ° BEEN
Buildings dwelling 35 30% 9,000 sf 75' 10' 15'
5
Group home 35' 30% 9,000 sf 75' 10' 15'
Churches,
schools,
government
and quasi-
government
buildings, golf
courses, small 35' 30% 1 acre 200' 15' 20'
day care
center, and
nursing,
elderly and
congregate
care homes
Accessory Buildings
! "b, t
leg
IN M M "A., N1 MUM
s
h
101 rr. All Other Uses
35' 30% 9,000 sf 75' b, 10' 15'
Notes:
a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of Wkw~
feet for all structures.
( b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
section 26-123)
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 4
i'
See. 26-207. Residential-One B District.
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable small
lot, low-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the low-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
Maximum
Building
Minimum
Lot
Minimum
Lot
Minimum
Front
minimum
Yard
minimum Rear
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
NVidth (a)
Yard
Setback (c
Setback
Setback (b)
a)
(c a)
PSrttipal' , Y
ld n
B
s
One-family
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
5'
10'
g
ui
dwelling
Group home
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
5' (go)
10'
'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' -3-0! (d b)
15' (g e)
20'
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
f lid
Buildings
X30
065,
G~AI
20e
*174
M AI
N%A
2~~ C 3
n
- F
am,
WLA
FS
All Other Uses
35'
40%
9,000sf
60'
2S' (b
5 (g)
10'
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Notes:
( f) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eiehty (80) feet for both street
side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of feet for all structures.
b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
section 26-123)
( e) A total of fifteen (15) feet side yard setback for every individual lot with a minimum of five (5) feet
(Ord.
2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 3, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-208. Residential-One C District (R-1C).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable,
medium-density single-family residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which
are incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE rNSET:
Maximum
Min .
imum
Minimum
Minimum
minimum
Side
minimum
Rear
Maximum
Building
Lot
Lot
Front
Yard
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
Width (a)
Yard
Setback
Setback
Setback (b)
Principal
One-family
'
'
Buildings
dwelling
35
40%
5,000 sf
50'
5'
5
'
'
Group home
35
40%
5,000 sf
50
5'
5'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
'
courses, small
35
40%
1 acre
200'
15'
20'
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
-
Accessory
I 1
p
A
f
Building
s
i~~nn
r
M
A
t-
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Notes:
) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of W 1
feet for all structures.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 3, 10-27-03)
See. 26-209. Residential-Two District (R-2).
A. Intent and purpose. This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low to
moderate-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
ZOA-09-01NNMmial Development Standards
( Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
Group home 1 35'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf 35'
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
' congregate care
homes
l tc5t 4ke"`
~r
reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
section 26-123)
A total of fifteen (15) feet side yard setback for every individual lot with a minimum of five (5)
40% 9,000 sf 75'
M. 110'
FO_
40% 1 acre 200' L " A 15'( 20'
Notes:
f) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages
a) Any -side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of
feet for all structures.
Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs maybe
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 8
Fifteen-foot setback for the first storv and five (5) feet for each additional
Sec. 26-210. Residential-Two A District (R-2A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
M
i
Minimum
Minimum
minimum
minimum
Maximum
ax
mum
B
uilding
minimum
Lot
Lot
Front
Side
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
Width (a)
Yard
Setback (b)
Setback
Prmcrpi
One-family
35'
40%
500 sf
7
60'
(c a)
5'
10'
Buildings
dwelling
,
Two-family
35'
o
40%
9,000 sf
75'
W'7&' (
5' per
10'
dwelling
b)
story
10' for one
Multifamily
13,050 sf
'
5' per
or two story
buildings;
(3/more
35'
0
40%
-
)
100
story
15' for three
dwelling units)
story
buildings
'
'
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
5
per story
10
Churches,
schools,
government
and quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
o
40%
l acre
200
15' (f)
20'
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
Buildings
ff
m
IVlrn¢;
NAMSflKl
.,t
NOW
VER
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Notes:
(a) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of MWERM
feet for all structures.
) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-
de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See
Figure 26-123.3.)
e) A minimum of four thousand three hundred fifty (4,350) square feet of land area shall be required
for each dwellin z unit for multifamilv buildines.
Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-2A district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all
of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area and/or
minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 6, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-211. Residential-Three District (R-3).
A. Intent and purpose. This district is established to provide high, quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium to high-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium to high-density residential character.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 10
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
.
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum
M . .
munum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Rear
Maximum
Building
Lot
Lot
Front
Yard
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
Width (a)
Yard
Setback
Setback
Setback
Principal
One-family
35'
40%
7
500 sf
60' (UM
,e
5'
10'
Buildings
dwelling
,
Two-family
35'
40/° °
,000 sf
9,000
, (
75
5'per
10'
dwelling
story
Multifamily
(3/more dwelling
5'
°
40%
12,500 sf
00'
~Fa`y
15' (,iM
,
15
(
units)
er
'
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
10
story
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
'
_
'1
15' (
b2FM
'
courses, small
35
°
40%
1 acre
200
20
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
Buildings
p
~
ll~ t
lno_r
lA
_
Nib, Al
ON
MOWN
f)'
S
04
.
it
44
ON
SM
,
All Other Uses
'
'
i
5' per
'
35
40%
7,500 sf
60
eJ
story
10
Notes:
Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
a) Side and rear yard setback shall be fifteen (15) feet for the first two (2) stories and an additional
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 11
five (5) feet for each additional story over two (2) stories.
Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of ' AN
feet for all structures.
(u Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-
de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See
Figure 26-123.3.)
(f A minimum of three thousand six hundred thirty (3,630) square feet of land area shall be required
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-2A district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all
of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area and/or
minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 7, 10-27-03)
See. 26-212. Residential-Three A District (R-3A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
Maximum
Building
Minimum
Lot
Minimum Minimum
Lot Front
Minimum
Side
Yard
Minimum
Rear
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
Width (a) Yard
Setback (b)
Setback
Setback
(d b)
Principal
one-family
35'
40%
7
500 sf
60' (g a
5'
10'
Buildings
dwelling
,
Two-family
'
35'
40/a
40%
9,000 sf
75' ~ #
T per
10'
dwelling
story
Multifamily
(3/more dwelling
35'
p
40%
12,500 sf
( d)
100'
15 ( a)
I S' (e
units)
9
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 12
e) story
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf o 25 je 15'
courses, small 35' 40 /o I acre 200' 4 20'
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
e.
Notes:
f) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
a) Side and rear yard setback shall be fifteen (15) feet for the first two (2) stories and an additional
five (5) feet for each additional story over two (2) stories.
Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of
feet for all structures.
PI(ge")
Front set
backs s for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-
de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See
Figure 26-123.3.)
1, A minimum of three thousand six hundred thirty (3,960) square feet of land area shall be required
Che requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-2A district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 13
of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area and/or
minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 7,10-27-03)
Sec. 26-213. Agricultural-One District (A-1).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide a high quality, safe, quiet and stable
residential estate living environment within a quasi-rural or agricultural setting. In addition to large lot,
single-family residential and related uses, agricultural uses and activities will exist and be encouraged to
continue.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Max .
imum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Minimum
Rear
Maximum
Building
Lot
Lo
t
Front
Yard
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area (d
.
NVidth
Yard
Setback
Setback
b)
Setback
Principal
One-family
'
Buildings
dwelling
35
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
IS'
15'
Group home
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
25%
1 acre
200'
30'(c)
15'
20'
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
no
_
WIN
SM
.
Buildings
a
s
,
_
4
k
80
.a,-a~~ .,.z;
rs
All Other Uses
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30'
15'
15'
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 14
Notes:
(a) Any side yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for all
structures.
(b) Any rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for all
structures, except where greater setbacks are specifically required.
(c) Front setbacks for one-family or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which
abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb.
(See Figure 26-123.3.)
(d) Lots smaller than one (1) acre may be used only for residential purposes
(e) e en 26fo1C~rd;~Qrespx1tno a puSldings
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01)
Sec. 26-214. Agricultural-Two Zone District (A-2).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide a reasonably compatible transition
between residential and more intensive agricultural land uses. It provides for large-lot, residential estate
living while allowing more commercially oriented, yet still agricultural operations. Design standards
have been included where possible to provide a reasonable interface between the two (2) extremes.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
minimum
minimum
Side
minimum
Rear
qW
Maximum
Height
Building
Lot
Lot
Front
Yard
Yard
Yard
Coverage
Area (e)
Width
Setback
Setback
Setback
(a)
(b)
Ariiieipal !
Buildings
One-family
dwelling
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
IS'
Group home
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
25%
1 acre
200'
30'(c)
15'
20'
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
3s}
5°Fu
Ik
D"
i'~',._,
Buildings
o
w
MAN
0
"
Y
s r
w
9§04
*4
1
g, M.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 15
All Other Uses 35' 25% 1 acre 140' 30' 15' 15'
Notes:
(a) Any side yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for all
structures.
(b) Any rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for all
structures, except where greater setbacks are specifically required.
(c) Front setbacks for one-family or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which
abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb.
(See Figure 26-123.3.)
(d) Accessory buildings housing livestock (including poultry, kennels and rabbits) shall be set back one
hundred (100) feet from the front property line. All other accessory buildings not listed shall have a
minimum front setback of seventy-five (75) feet.
(e) Lots smaller than one (1 acre may be used
(fl
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01)
Section 3: Section 26-123 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26-123. Definitions.
For the purpose of this zoning code, and as used or referred to in other sections, chapters or articles of the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, unless specifically defined otherwise, the following words and terms are
defined as follows. Words used in the present tense include the future; words in the singular number include
the plural, and words in the plural number include the singular; the word "building" includes the word
"structure" and the word "shall" is mandatory and not directory. Any word or term used in this chapter not
specifically defined above shall be interpreted as that word is defined elsewhere in the Wheat Ridge Code of
Laws, or if not defined elsewhere in the Code of Laws, as defined in Colorado Revised Statutes, or if not
defined in the statutes, as defined in Webster's Dictionary.
Setback line, rear. A line parallel with a rear lot line of a lot, tangent to that part of a building situated
on such lot which is closest to such side lot line and intersecting two (2) other lot lines of such lot.
Setback line, side. A line parallel with a side lot line of a lot, tangent to that part of a building situated
on such lot which is closest to such side lot line and intersecting two (2) other lot lines of such lot. ffii
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 16
Per story setback measured
from the closest point of the
additional story
Side/Rear Setback
Illustration
10' per story (in
this example)
Figure 26-123.1: Where side and rear setbacks are based on
the number of stories of the building, the setback is
measured from the closest point of the additional story, not
the first story. In this example, the closest point of the third
floor must be setback 15 feet (5 foot per story).
Section 4: Section 26-306 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26-611. Building setbacks.
A. Generally, building setback shall be measured at right angles from the closest property line to the
outermost wall of a building. In residential zone districts only, encroachments into required setback areas
shall not be permitted except as follows, provided however, that no encroachment into a side or rear yard
is allowed in the NC, RC, C-1, C-2, or I zone districts when adjacent to a residentially zoned property:
1. Porches, patios, decks and balconies
Porches, patios, decks and balconies which are open on at least two (2) sides may encroach into a front
setback up to eight feet or into a side or rear yard a maximum of one-third the distance to the closest
property line.
2. Architectural features
Cornices, eaves, beltcourses, sills, canopies or other similar architectural features, including bay
windows, may extend or project into a required front, side or rear yard not more than thirty (30) inches.
3. Chimneys
Chimneys may project into a required front, side or rear yard not more than two (2) feet, provided the
width of such yard is not reduced to less than three (3) feet.
4. Fire escapes, open stairways
A fire escape or open stairway may extend into any front, side or rear yard, provided the width of such
and is not reduced to less than three (3) feet.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 17
B. f~W"4A* F . a~ SrYs or Pra a y i ings
If fifty (50) percent or more of the main buildings within a built-up area in any district have more or less
than the required front yard, each new main building ave a front yard consistent with the
average buildin setbacks in the immediate area, exce t that for the purpose of computing such average,
a front yard
setback less that fifteen
(15) feet shall be deemed to be fifteen (15) feet. For the purpose of this regulation, an immediate area
shall be deemed "built-up" if fifty (50) percent or more of the lots within the same block and within two
hundred (200) feet on each side lot line . of any particular lot have been improved
with buildings W However, in no instance shall a structure encroach into a required
sight distance triangle.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 9, 10-27-03)
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 18
Section 5: Section 26-625 of the Code is amended to read:
Section 26-625
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 19
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 20
Section 6. Safety Clause. The City of Wheat Ridge 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 7. Severability. If any clause, sentence, paragraph, or part of this Zoning Code or the
application thereof to any person or circumstances shall for any reason be adjusted by a court of
competent jurisdiction invalid, such judgment shall not affect application to other persons or
;ircumstances.
Section 8. Supersession Clause. If any provision, requirements or standard established by this
Ordinance is found to conflict with similar provisions, requirements or standards found elsewhere in the
Code of Laws of the City of Wheat Ridge, which are in existence as of the date of adoption of this
Ordinance, the provisions, requirements and standards here shall supersede and prevail.
Section 7. This Ordinance shall take effect 15 days after final publication.
INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of to on this _
day of 2009, ordered published in full in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of
Wheat Ridge and Public Hearing and consideration on final passage set for 2009, at
7:00 o'clock p.m., in the Council Chambers, 7500 West 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by a vote of to
this day of 2009.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this day of 12009.
Jerry DiTullio, Mayor
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 21
ATTEST:
Michael Snow, City Clerk
Approved as to form by City Attorney
Gerald Dahl, City Attorney
1 st publication:
2nd publication:
Wheat Ridge Transcript
Effective Date:
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 22
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER BERRY
Council Bill No. 19
Ordinance No.
Series of 2009
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING VARIOUS SECTIONS OF CHAPTER 26
OF THE WHEAT RIDGE CODE OF LAWS CONCERNING RESIDENTIAL
DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS (CASE NO. ZOA-09- 02)
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 Council of the City of Wheat Ridge finds that the proposed
amendments implement recommendations from the adopted Neighborhood Revitalization
Strategy; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT
RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1: Section 26-120 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26-120. Nonconforming lots, uses and structures.
C. Nonconforming structures and uses: Where a structure or use lawfully existed at the
time of the adoption or amendment of this chapter which could not be built under the current
requirements of this chapter because of lot area, lot coverage, required yards or the location
of the structure on the lot, such structure or use may be continued so long as it remains
otherwise lawful, subject to the following.
1. Any one- or two-family dwelling structure or customary accessory structures maybe
enlarged, altered or added to provided that all lot coverage requirements of the zoning district
in which the structure is located are met, and provided that the enlargement, alteration or
addition does not increase the extent of nonconforming setbacks by encroaching beyond the
existing setback line. In instances of corner lots, no enlargement, alteration or addition shall
be permitted to encroach within the minimum sight distance triangle as set forth in section
26-603B. In addition, no enlargement, alteration or addition which extends within the _
nonconforming area shall result in the development of any additional dwelling units.
2. If any structure or nonconforming portion thereof is demolished or reconstructed by the
owner to an extent of more than fifty (50) percent of its replacement cost, it shall not be
reconstructed except in conformity with the applicable provisions of this chapter.
3. If any structure should for any reason be moved from its location at the time of adoption
or amendment of this chapter, it shall conform to the provisions of the district in which it is
located after it is moved.
4. No existing structure devoted to a use not permitted by this chapter in the district in which
located shall be enlarged, extended, constructed, reconstructed, moved or structurally
altered except in changing the use of the structure to a use permitted in the district in which it
is located.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
ATTACHMENT 2
5. Any nonconforming use may be extended throughout any part of the building which was designed
or arranged for such use at the time of adoption or amendment of this chapter, but no such use shall be
extended to occupy any land outside such building. In addition, no such use shall be extended to any
portion of the property outside of any building which was not used for said nonconforming use at the
time of the adoption or amendment of this chapter creating said nonconforming use.
6. Whenever any nonconforming use of a structure, or land, or a structure and land in combination is
discontinued for sixty (60) consecutive days or six (6) months during any three-year period (except
when government action impedes access to the property) the structure, or structure and premises in
combination shall not thereafter be devoted to a use not permitted in the district in which is located.
Nonconforming residential structures and uses are exempt from the provisions of this subparagraph.
Rezoning or special use permit applications for properties which are nonconforming uses at the time of
application, and where these applications are intended to bring the nonconforming use into use
conformance, shall not be charged application fees or be required to reimburse the city for direct
expenses related to the application review process.
7. Setback encroachments for accessory buildings may be allowed where the principal structure
encroaches into required setbacks in accordance with Section 26-625.
Section 2: Sections 26-205 - 26-214 of the Code are amended to read:
See. 26-205. Residential-One District (R-1)
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low-
density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are incompatible with
the low-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
rincipal
Buildings
ne-family
dwelling
ei-lit
5'
Maximum
Coverage
u
25/0
Mininium
Lot
A rea
12,500 sf
Minionoll
Lot
width
100'
Minimum
Yard
Setback (a)
30 (c)
Minimum
Side
Yard
Setback
(b a)
15
Mini"'I'm
Rear
Yard
Setback
15'
r-
Group home
35'
25%
12,500 sf
100'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Churches,
schools,
government
and quasi-
government
buildings,
golf courses,
small day
35'
25%
1 acre
200'
30' (c)
15' (e)
20'
care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate
care homes
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Notes:
(a) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(b) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30)
feet for all structures.
(c) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced
to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at
the end of section 26-123)
(d) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(e) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 1, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-206. Residential-One A District (R-1A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low-
density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are incompatible with
the low-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
rincipal '
Buildings
ne-family
dwelling
[oull]
Hei-lit
35'
Bijildhig
o
30%
Lot
9,000 sf
Lot
75
Front
Yard
Setback (a)
25' (c)
Yard
(1) a)
10'
Yard
5
Group home
35'
30%
9,000 sf
75'
25' (c)
10'
15'
Churches,
schools,
government
and quasi-
government
buildings, golf
courses, small
day care
35'
30%
1 acre
200'
25' (c)
15' (e)
20'
center, and
nursing,
elderly and
congregate
care homes
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
ccessory
Height
CoN crage
A rea
flHob
\Vidtll
Yard
Setback (a)
Side
Setback
(1) a)
War
setback
5' if
Buildings
5' if 10'
10' in
(a) Major
15'
1,000 sf
N/A
N/A
25' (c)
in height;
'
'
h
eight; 10'
10
if> 10
10' in
if>
in height
height
Minor
10'
400 sf
N/A
N/A
25' (c)
5'
5'
All Other Uses
35'
30%
9,000 sf
75'
25' (c)
10'
15'
Notes:
(a) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(b) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five
(25) feet for all structures.
(c) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced
to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at
the end of section 26-123)
(d) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(e) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
Sec. 26-207. Residential-One B District.
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable small
lot, low-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the low-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:]
rincipal
ne-family
Heigilt
covcrllg~e
Lot
Area
Lot
Width (11)
Front
Y a rd
Setback (b)
Yard
Setback (e
Yard
Setback
Buildings
dwelling
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
25' O d
5' (a)
10'
Group home
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
25' (d)
5' (e)
10'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
courses, small
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' (d)
15' (g)
20'
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
1,1 a x i III [I to
'
A reil
N11 i it i III it III
Width (a)
N1 i II i 11111111
Yard
Setback (b)
setbacli (C
Setback
Accesso
rS
a)
5' if 10'
Buildings
'
'
'
height;
Major 15
600 sf
N/A
N/A
25
(d)
5
10' if> 10'
in height
Minor 10'
300 sf
N/A
N/A
25' (d)
5'
5'
All Other Uses 35'
40%
9,000 sf
60'
25' (d)
5' (e)
10'
Notes:
(a) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(b) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five
(25) feet for all structures.
(d) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced
to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at
the end of section 26-123)
(e) A total of fifteen (15) feet side yard setback for every individual lot with a minimum of five (5)
feet on one (1) side.
(f) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(g) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 3, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-208. Residential-One C District (R-1C).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable,
medium-density single-family residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which
are incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
rincipal
Buildings
ne-family
dwelling
maxontini
Height
5'
Building
Coverage
u
40/0
Lot
A rea
5,000sf
Lot
Width (a)
0'
Front
Yard
Setback (b)
20' (d)
milliIIIIIIII
Yard
Setback
(C a)
5'
V! ininal III
Yard
Setback
5'
Group home
35'
40%
5,000 sf
50'
20' (d)
5'
5'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
15'
20'
buildings, golf
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Notes:
(a) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(b) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty (20)
feet for all structures.
(d) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced
to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at
the end of section 26-123)
(e) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 3, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-209. Residential-Two District (R-2).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low
to moderate-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Buildhw
Coverage
Lot
A re"I
Yard
Setback
Yard
Setback
Principal
Buildings
One-family
dwelling
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
Setback (b)
25' (d)
(C a)
5' (e)
10'
Two-family
35,
40%
12,500 sf
100'
25' (d)
5' per story
10'
dwelling
(e)
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25' (d)
)er story
10'
e
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' (d)
15' (g)
20'
buildings, golf
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
lderly and
INI a X,
Nlaxiol It Ill
Coi enioe
N1 i 111 Ill 11 Ill
Ar
e;l
Lot
Widdl (a)
Fi ont
Yard
Setback (b)
Side
Setback
Real.
Setback
congregate care
homes
Accessory
5' if 10'
Buildings
Major
15'
1,000 sf per
25' (d)
5
in height; 10'
'
(fl _
unit
N/A
N/A
if> 10
in
height
Minor
10'
400 sf
N/A
N/A
25'(d)
5'
S'
All Other Uses
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25' (d)
5' (e)
10'
Notes:
(a) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(b) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five
(25) feet for all structures.
(d) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced
to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at
the end of section 26-123)
(e) A total of fifteen (15) feet side yard setback for every individual lot with a minimum of five (5)
feet on one (1) side.
(f) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(g) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
Sec. 26-210. Residential-Two A District (R-2A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
rincipal
Buildings
ne-family
dwelling
Height
5'
Coverage
0%
Are"I
7,500 sf
Widtil (a)
0'
Yard
Setback (b)
25' (d)
Setback
(C a)
5' (d)
Setback
10'
Two-family
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25' (d)
T per
10'
dwelling
story
10' for one
Multifamily
13
050 sf
5 per
or two story
(3/more
35'
40%
,
(e)
100'
25' (d)
story
buildings;
'
dwelling units)
for three
15
story
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25'(d)
T per story
10'
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
hurches,
NlaxiIIIIIIII
Bo i I (I in-
Milli
Lot
Area
Lot
Width (a)
F rout
Ya rd
Setback (b)
Side
Setback
Ilear
Setback
schools,
government
and quasi-
government
buildings, golf
courses, small
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' (d)
15'(f)
20'
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
5' if 10'
Buildings
Maj
or
15'
600 sf (per
25'
(d)
5'
in height; 10'
(g)
unit)
N/A
N/A
if> 10' in
height
Minor
10'
400 sf/4
N/A
N/A
25' (d)
5'
5'
d.u.
All Other Uses
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'(g)
25' (d)
5'
10'
Notes:
(a) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(b) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five
(25) feet for all structures.
(d) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut
cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac
bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(e) A minimum of four thousand three hundred fifty (4,350) square feet of land area shall be
required for each dwelling unit for multifamily buildings.
(f) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(g) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-2A district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all
of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 6, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-211. Residential-Three District (R-3).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium to high-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium to high-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
rincipal
Buildings
ne-family
dwelling
5'
Nplaxillillin
cover,we
40%
Mill' HIM
Area
7,500 sf
Nplininloill
60' (g f)
Millinluill
Setback (b)
25' (e)
Side
se(back
(d b)
5'
Rear
Setback
10'
Two-family
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75' (g f)
25' (e)
5' per
10'
dwelling
story
Multifamily
500 sf
12 12
(3/more dwelling
35'
40%
,
(e)
100'
25' (e)
15' (c)
15' (c)
units)
I
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25' (e)
per
10'
sto
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' (e)
15' (b)
20'
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory `
5' if 10'
Buildings
Maj
or
15'
600 sf (per
25' (
e)
5'
in height;
(9)
unit)
N/A
N/A
10' if> 10'
in height
Minor
10'
400 sf/4
N/A
N/A
25' (e)
5'
5'
d.u.
All Other Uses
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
25' (e)
5' per
10'
story
Notes:
(a) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(b) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c) Side and rear yard setback shall be fifteen (15) feet for the first two (2) stories and an additional
five (5) feet for each additional story over two (2) stories.
(d) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five
(25) feet for all structures.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
(e) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut
cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac
bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(f) A minimum of three thousand six hundred thirty (3,630) square feet of land area shall be
required for each dwelling unit for multifamily buildings.
(g) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-2A district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all
of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 7,10-27-03)
Sec. 26-212. Residential-Three A District (R-3A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
oluln
Building
Coverage
Area
Lot
Front
Yard
Setback
Setback
Principal
One-family
'
Setback (b)
Buildings
dwelling
35
o
40%
7,500 sf
60' (g)
25' (e)
5'
10'
Two-family
dwellin
35'
o
40%
9,000 sf
75' (g)
25' (e)
5'
rer
10'
g
story
Multifamily
sf
500
12 12
(3/more dwelling
35'
40%
,
100'
25' (e)
15' (c)
15' (c)
units)
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25' (e)
per
10'
story
Churches, schools,
government
buildings, golf
courses, small day
care center, , & &
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25'
15'(c)
20'
nursing, elderly
and congregate
care homes
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 10
Minor
10'
400 sf/4 .
d.u.
N/A
N/A
25' (e)
5'
5'
All Other Uses
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
25' (e)
5' per
story
10'
Notes:
(a) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(b) Front setback reductions may be allowed in accordance with Section 26-611.
(c) Side and rear yard setback shall be fifteen (15) feet for the first two (2) stories and an additional
five (5) feet for each additional story over two (2) stories.
(d) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five
(25) feet for all structures.
(e) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut
cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac
bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(f) A minimum of three thousand six hundred thirty (3,960) square feet of land area shall be
required for each dwelling unit for multifamily buildings.
(g) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-2A district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all
of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally inexistence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 7, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-213. Agricultural-One District (A-1).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide a high quality, safe, quiet and stable
residential estate living environment within a quasi-rural or agricultural setting. In addition to large lot,
single-family residential and related uses, agricultural uses and activities will exist and be encouraged
to continue.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards I1
rincipal
ne-family
Hei,,ht
'
13uildin-
CoN era,C
Lot
Aiel(d
I
Lot
width
Front
Yard
Setback
Side
Yard
Setback
(a)
Yard
Setback
Buildings
dwelling
35
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Group home
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Churches, schools,
government and
quasi-government
buildings, golf
courses, small day
35'
25%
1 acre
200'
30' (c)
15'
20'
care center, and
nursing, elderly
and congregate
care homes
Accessory
Major
35'
25%
N/A
N/A
30' (c)
15'
5'
Buildings
Minor
35'
25%
N/A
N/A
30'
15'
5'
e
All Other Uses
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30'
15'
15'
Notes:
(a) Any side yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for
all structures.
(b) Any rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for
all structures, except where greater setbacks are specifically required.
(c) Front setbacks for one-family or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots
which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a
cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(d) Lots smaller than one (1) acre may be used only for residential purposes.
(e) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01)
Sec. 26-214. Agricultural-Two Zone District (A-2).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide a reasonably compatible transition
between residential and more intensive agricultural land uses. It provides for large-lot, residential estate
living while allowing more commercially oriented, yet still agricultural operations. Design standards
have been included where possible to provide a reasonable interface between the two (2) extremes.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 12
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-government
buildings, golf
courses, small
35'
25%
1 acre
200'
30'(c)
15'
20'
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
major
35'
25%
N/A
N/A
30' (c)
15'
5'
Buildings
Minor
35'
25%
N/A
N/A
30' (d)
15'
5'
All Other Uses
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30'
15'
15'
Notes:
(a) Any side yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for
all structures.
(b) Any rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for
all structures, except where greater setbacks are specifically required.
(c) Front setbacks for one-family or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots
which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a
cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(d) Accessory buildings housing livestock (including poultry, kennels and rabbits) shall be set back
one hundred (100) feet from the front property line. All other accessory buildings not listed
shall have a minimum front setback of seventy-five (75) feet.
(e) Lots smaller than one (1) acre may be used only for residential purposes.
(f) See Section 26-625 for additional regulations pertaining to accessory buildings.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01)
Section 3: Section 26-123 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26-123. Definitions.
For the purpose of this zoning code, and as used or referred to in other sections, chapters or articles of the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, unless specifically defined otherwise, the following words and terms are
defined as follows. Words used in the present tense include the future; words in the singular number
include the plural, and words in the plural number include the singular; the word "building" includes the
word "structure" and the word "shall" is mandatory and not directory. Any word or term used in this
chapter not specifically defined above shall be interpreted as that word is defined elsewhere in the Wheat
Ridge Code of Laws, or if not defined elsewhere in the Code of Laws, as defined in Colorado Revised
Statutes, or if not defined in the statutes, as defined in Webster's Dictionary.
Setback line, rear. A line parallel with a rear lot line of a lot, tangent to that part of a building situated
on such lot which is closest to such side lot line and intersecting two (2) other lot lines of such lot. In
instances where rear setbacks are based on the number of stories, the setback shall be measured from a
line parallel with the applicable lot line to the closest point of the additional story. (See Figure 26-
123.1).
Setback line, side. A line parallel with a side lot line of a lot, tangent to that part of a building situated
on such lot which is closest to such side lot line and intersecting two (2) other lot lines of such lot. In
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 13
instances where rear setbacks are based on the number of stories, the setback shall be measured from a
line parallel with the applicable lot line to the closest point of the additional story. (See Figure 26-
123.1).
Per story setback measured
from the closest point of the
10 additional story
10'
Side/Rear
Setback
10' per story (in
this example)
----15' ---f
Figure 26-123.1: Where side and rear setbacks are based
on the number of stories of the building, the setback is
measured from the closest point of the additional story,
not the first story. In this example, the closest point of
the third floor must be setback 15 feet (5 foot per story).
Section 4: Section 26-306 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26-611. Building setbacks.
A. Generally, building setback shall be measured at right angles from the closest property line to the
outermost wall of a building. In residential zone districts only, encroachments into required setback
areas shall not be permitted except as follows, provided however, that no encroachment into a side or
rear yard is allowed in the NC, RC, C-1, C-2, or I zone districts when adjacent to a residentially zoned
property:
1. Porches, patios, decks and balconies
Porches, patios, decks and balconies which are open on at least two (2) sides may encroach into a front
setback up to eight feet or into a side or rear yard a maximum of one-third the distance to the closest
property line.
2. Architectural features
Cornices, eaves, beltcourses, sills, canopies or other similar architectural features, including bay
windows, may extend or project into a required front, side or rear yard not more than thirty (30)
inches.
3. Chimneys
Chimneys may project into a required front, side or rear yard not more than two (2) feet, provided the
width of such yard is not reduced to less than three (3) feet.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 14
4. Fire escapes, open stairways
A fire escape or open stairway may extend into any from, side or rear yard, provided the width of such
yard is not reduced to less than three (3) feet.
5. Nonconforming setbacks
Where there are existing setback encroachments that lawfully existed in accordance with Section 26-
120 (Nonconforming lots, uses and structures), additions and new buildings may be allowed setback
encroachments in accordance with Section 26-120 and Section 26-625, (Accessory Buildings).
B. Allowed Front Yard Setback Encroachments for Principal Buildings
If fifty (50) percent or more of the main buildings within a built-up area in any district have more or
less than the required front yard, each new main building may have a front yard consistent with the
average building setbacks in the immediate area, except that for the purpose of computing such
average, a front yard setback less that fifteen (15) feet shall be deemed to be fifteen (15) feet. For the
purpose of this regulation, an immediate area shall be deemed "built-up" if fifty (50) percent or more of
the lots within the same block and within two hundred (200) feet on each side lot line within the same
block of any particular lot have been improved with buildings (See Figure 26-611.1). However, in no
instance shall a structure encroach into a required sight distance triangle.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 9, 10-27-03)
OTRI M
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 15
NINE
Section 5: Section 26-625 of the Code is amended to read:
Section 26-625 Accessory Buildings
A. Purpose
The purpose of this section is to allow accessory buildings that are incidental and subordinate to the
principal use and structure on a property and to set forth standards that help to minimize adverse
impacts of these buildings on adjacent property. The purpose of this section is also to allow
flexibility to construct accessory buildings on challenging properties relative to size and existing
physical improvements while minimizing adverse impacts on surrounding properties.
B. Applicability
All accessory buildings on residentially zoned property shall be subject to the provisions set forth in
this section, and those in Sections 26-205 to 26-214 (residential and agricultural zone district
regulations). In the event of a conflict between the accessory building standards in this section and
any other requirements of this Code, this section shall control
C. Accessory Building Standards
1. General Standards
a. Location
i. No accessory building shall be located on a vacant lot devoid of any primary or main
building.
ii. No accessory building shall be located within any platted or recorded easement or over
any utility, except as otherwise expressly agreed to in writing by the City or utility
provider, as applicable.
b. Size and Height
The size and height of accessory buildings shall be as set forth in the residential zone
district regulations in Sections 26-205 to 26-214.
c. Miscellaneous Provisions
i. Metal Accessory Building Restriction
Metal accessory buildings over 120 square feet are not permitted in any residential
zoning district. Frame-built residential accessory structures over 120 square feet in size
may be allowed to have metal siding as long as the material has a textured wood grain
appearance similar to horizontal clapboard. Vertically placed vinyl-clad siding is not
allowed.
ii. Buildings Housing Animals
Any building that houses animals, except a residence, shall be setback a minimum of
fifteen (15) feet from property lines and at least thirty (30) feet from a residential
structure on an adjacent property, except as otherwise specified in any zone district.
iii. Gates and Guard Houses
Gates and guard houses are only allowed as part of an approved planned development.
iv. Dwelling Unit Restriction
Except as otherwise expressly allowed, no dwelling unit shall be located in any
accessory;
2. Major and Minor Accessory Buildings
Major and minor accessory buildings shall be as defined in Sections 26-205 to Section 26-214
based on size and height.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 16
3. Allowable Setback Encroachments for Accessory Buildings
Accessory buildings may encroach into required setbacks as set forth below:
a. Front Yards and Side and Rear Yards Abutting Public Streets
Where an existing principal building that lawfully existed at the time of the adoption or
amendment of this section encroaches into a required front yard setback or a required side
or rear yard setback abutting a public street, an accessory building may encroach into the
required setback as follows, provided that there shall be no encroachment into the minimum
sight distance triangle as set forth in section 26-603B:
i. Detached Garages and Carports
Detached garages and carports may build in line with the nonconforming principal
building, as long as the detached garage is located behind the front or street-facing
facade of the principal building, except as follows:
a) Where the garage door or main vehicular access is located parallel to the street, the
setback cannot be between five
(5) feet and eighteen (18) feet.
The purpose of this regulation is
to allow setback encroachments
where there will be not be the
possibility of vehicles parked in
the driveway in conflict with
public rights-of-way. (See Figures
26-625.1)
b) Where the garage door or main
vehicular access is located
perpendicular to the street, the
detached garage or carport may be
built in line with the principal
building. The purpose of this
regulation is to allow setback
encroachments where there will
be not be the possibility of
vehicles parked in the driveway in
conflict with public rights-of-way.
c) Where the garage door or main
vehicular access is located parallel
to and accessed off of an arterial
street, the detached garage may
not encroach into the required
setback.
d) The Community Development
Director may require modified
setbacks in these instances where
A
NOT ALLOWED
x:
there may be potentially hazardous conditions.
ii. All Other Accessory Buildings
Accessory buildings that do not have any vehicular access may build in line with the
nonconforming principal structure in front yards and side and rear yards abutting public
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 17
streets, as long as the accessory building is located behind the front or street-
facing fagade of the principal structure.
Section 6. Safety Clause. The City of Wheat Ridge 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 7. Severability. If any clause, sentence, paragraph, or part of this Zoning Code or
the application thereof to any person or circumstances shall for any reason be adjusted by a
court of competent jurisdiction invalid, such judgment shall not affect application to other
persons or circumstances.
Section 8. Supersession Clause. If any provision, requirements or standard
established by this Ordinance is found to conflict with similar provisions, requirements or
standards found elsewhere in the Code of Laws of the City of Wheat Ridge, which are in
existence as of the date of adoption of this Ordinance, the provisions, requirements and
standards here shall supersede and prevail.
Section 7 . This Ordinance shall take effect 15 days after final publication.
INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of 8 to 0 on this
3rd day of August. 2009, ordered published in full in a newspaper of general circulation in
the City of Wheat Ridge and Public Hearing and consideration on final passage set for
August 24, 2009, at 7:00 o'clock p.m., in the Council Chambers, 7500 West 29th Avenue,
Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by a vote of
to , this day of 2009.
SIGNED by the Mayor on this
day of 2009.
Jerry DiTullio, Mayor
ATTEST:
Michael Snow, City Clerk
1st publication: August 6, 2009
2nd publication:
Wheat Ridge Transcript
Effective Date:
Approved as to form by City Attorney
Gerald Dahl, City Attorney
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 19
,x{,
City of
WheatI-dge PLANNING COMMISSION
COMMUMQ DEVELOPMENT LEGISLATIVE ITEM STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: June 18, 2009
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 26 CONCERNING
RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS (ZOA-09-02)
CASE NO. ZOA-09-02
M PUBLIC HEARING M CODE CHANGE ORDINANCE
Case Manager: Jeff Hirt
Date of Preparation: June 11, 2009
SUMMARY:
The attached ordinance proposes amendments to the development standards in residential zone districts.
Specifically, revisions are proposed to setback requirements for both principal and accessory buildings, as
well as a new section directly addressing accessory buildings. The attached ordinance represents the general
zonsensus reached at multiple study sessions with both the Planning Commission and City Council with
regards to some modest reductions in setbacks and generally more flexibility to make improvements on
residential property.
Notice for this public hearing was provided as required by the Code of Laws.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards ATTACHMENT 3
BACKGROUND:
Residential development standards are primarily set forth in Sections 26-205 to 26-214 of Chapter 26 of
the Code of laws. These standards include building setbacks, size, and height, as well as minimum lot
sizes for different land uses. This code amendment has been a high priority item as part of the short term
zoning code amendments staff is working on for a number of reasons as expressed in the Neighborhood
Revitalization Strategy (NRS).
Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy
The adopted Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy clearly outlines the need to update the zoning code to
encourage improvements to existing residential properties to attract "strong" households. There are a
number of obstacles in the current zoning code related to residential development standards to encourage
desirable residential development and redevelopment in the current code:
• Wheat Ridge has, on average, significantly smaller homes than surrounding communities and the
county as a whole.' With this, there is a demand for expansions to existing homes, which often
includes additions and detached garages. For instance, the majority of the homes built in Wheat
Ridge were not originally built with two car garages, a commonly demanded item in the current
residential market.
The current residential development standards,
specifically setback requirements, often times are very
restrictive in allowing any type of additions or
expansions. In many cases the existing setback
requirements do not reflect the existing conditions,
particularly in residential neighborhoods east of
Wadsworth. In other words, houses, garages, and sheds
very often encroach into required setbacks under current
regulations.
A major component of the NRS is also encouraging more
pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods. Every residential zone Typical Wheat Ridge residential
district has required large front yard setbacks, higher on average structure
than any surrounding jurisdiction in fact (see Exhibit 1 of this
staff report). While it is perhaps appropriate to keep these larger front setbacks in some of the city's
large lot residential zone districts, it may be beneficial to include some reductions in others.
Current Code
The current residential development standards generally include the following:
30' front setbacks in all districts, 30' setbacks from any street in all districts
Generally, 5' side/rear setbacks where accessory buildings are less than 8' in height; 10' side/rear
setbacks where accessory buildings are greater than 8' in height. This results in required 10'
side/rear setbacks for any detached garage in most zone districts. In some districts, there are 5'
1 See page 20 of the Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy (NRS).
2 Noted throughout the document; but see page 24 of the Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy (NRS) for a specific example
as part of the recommendations from this document.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 2
minimum side setbacks for principal structures, while garages must be 10' (See Exhibit 2 for an
illustration of this discrepancy).
35' maximum height for principal buildings
15' maximum height for detached garages; 10' maximum height for storage sheds.
Minimum lot size/width, maximum lot coverage of a lot that can be covered by buildings)
varying by district.
History
2003 Zoning Code Amendments
It is important to summarize the similar zoning code amendment process undertaken in 2003. Initially,
these specific issues were discussed as part of the comprehensive zoning code rewrite in 2001. As new
issues emerged, subsequent meetings and research resulted in approval of the adopted ordinance taking
place in 2003.
The following general revisions were made in 2003 related to residential development standards:
• Reduced the allowable building height for accessory structures in all residential zone districts
from 20' to 15' for detached garages, and 20' to 10' for storage sheds. The general intent was to
limit the bulk and mass of the structures, and there were also concerns about living space above
the structures.
• Increased side and rear setbacks for accessory structures based on building height.
• Increased side and rear setbacks for principal structures in some districts - some based on height
(per story) and some an outright increase.
• Established a maximum size of 120 square feet for metal accessory buildings in all residential
zone districts.
• Revised the definition of an accessory building.
Surrounding Jurisdictions
Eight area jurisdictions were analyzed with regards to the residential development standards under
consideration for this zoning code amendment. Exhibit 1 includes a table with more detail on this
research. In general, the conclusions are as follows:
Wheat Ridge...
• Has the highest front setbacks on average
• Has lesser rear setbacks for principal structures on average
• Has higher side and rear setbacks for detached garages on average - most do not base the
setback on height
• Generally is more restrictive for corner lot setbacks. Five of the eight have reduced side and
rear yard setbacks for corner lots for principal structures on average
• Is consistent with regards to side setbacks for principal structures on average
• Is consistent with front setbacks for accessory structures in that they are the same as the principal
structure, but some jurisdictions simply require that they be behind the principal structure
• Is consistent with accessory buildings of lesser height for side and rear setbacks on average
• Is consistent with regards to building heights for principal structures on average
• Is consistent with regards to building heights for accessory structures on average
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Summary of Proposed Changes
Staff has proposed a number of changes throughout the residential zone districts reflected in the attached
ordinance. The following general changes were made:
• Classifying accessory buildings as major versus minor, and adding a new accessory buildings
section. The current code only regulates detached garages and storage sheds for accessory
buildings.
• Allowing accessory buildings to encroach into front and street setbacks where the existing
principal building already encroaches.
• In most districts, reducing the front setback from 30' to 25'
• In most districts, reducing side and rear setbacks for accessory buildings so that they are treated
similar to the principal building.
The following is a district-by-district summary of the changes:
District
Development Standards
All districts .
• Detached garages/carports and storage sheds as
only accessory buildings regulated to major and
minor accessory buildings classification.
• Reference to new accessory buildings section.
Residential-OneDistrict {1Z-1)
• None
Residential-One A District (R-1A)
• Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side/rear setbacks for major accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5' if 10'
height, 10' if> 10'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 5'
Residential-One B District (R-1B)
• Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 10 if>10'
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
Residential-One C District (R-1 C)
• Front/street setback: 30' to 20'
• Side/rear setbacks for all accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
District
Summary of Changes to Development Standards
Residential-Two District (R-2)
• Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 10 if>10'
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Side/rear setbacks for principal buildings, two
family and group homes: 5' to 5' per story
Residentii&T.:Wp A District (R 2A). =
e Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5' .
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 10 if>10'
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 5'
• Eliminate 5' per story side setback for single
family residential
Residential-Three District (R-3)
. Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 10 if>10'
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Eliminate 5' per story side setback for single
family residential
Residential-Three A District (R-3A)
• Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 10 if>10'
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Eliminate 5' per story side setback for single
family residential
Agricultural One (A-1)
• None, but new reference to major vs. minor
accessory buildings.
Agricultural Two (A-2)
• None, but new reference to major vs. minor
accessory buildings.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Classifying Accessory Buildings
In consultation with the Planning Commission, staff has proposed classifying accessory buildings as
major and minor, rather than the current detached garages and sheds. Major accessory buildings would
have the same size and height restrictions as detached garages currently do, and similarly minor
accessory buildings would have size restrictions similar to that of storage sheds under the current code.
Under the proposed regulations, the size of the structure is the determining factor in its classification
regardless of the use. The following is an illustration of a typical proposed standard in a residential zone
district:
In addition to the size and height restrictions, the main difference between major and minor accessory
buildings is more restrictive setbacks in most districts. The general philosophy behind staff s
recommendation is to treat major accessory buildings similar to how the principal structure is treated
relative to setbacks, with lesser setbacks for minor accessory buildings. With this, where the principal
structure has side or rear setbacks 10' or greater, major accessory structures would have 5' side/rear
setbacks when less than 10' in height, and 10' side/rear setbacks when greater than 10' in height. Minor
accessory buildings generally would have 5' side and rear setbacks regardless.
Allowable setback encroachments
In order to provide more flexibility on challenging lots where there are existing principal structure
setback encroachments, staff has proposed allowing limited encroachments for accessory buildings in
these situations. Under the proposed ordinance, where the principal structure encroaches into required
front and street setbacks, the accessory structure may build in line with this encroachment. Detached
garages are given special consideration, as there may be issues with vehicles hanging out onto the right-
of-way where there is limited depth for a driveway along the street. The ordinance is written so that a
typical vehicle would either fit onto a driveway in these situations, or it would be unlikely a vehicle
would attempt to park there at all. This is accomplished by specifying that there cannot be a setback
between 5' and 18' from the street, as the typical vehicle depth to accommodate a vehicle is 18'.
RATIONALE FOR AMENDMENT
There are some clear issues with the current code regarding consistency in treatment of principal and
accessory buildings, as well as the goals of the NRS:
• In many cases (e.g., R-113, R-1C, R-2, R-2A, R-3, R-3A), the principal structure has 5' side or
rear setbacks, yet any accessory structure over 8' in height must be 10' from side and rear
property lines. This effectively allows a 35' foot tall principal building 5' from a side or rear
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
property line, while a 15' tall detached garage must be 10' from a side/rear property line (See
Exhibit 2).
• Requiring 30' front setbacks in all districts is a more substantial requirement than any
jurisdiction surveyed (see comparable jurisdiction survey in Exhibit 1), and it also discourages
pedestrian friendly development.
• Requiring 30' front and street setbacks for corner lots creates a very small buildable area for
these properties.
• The only two accessory buildings addressed are detached garages and storage sheds. Buildings
such as gazebos, barns, greenhouses, and other accessory buildings should be addressed rather
than interpreted on a case-by-case basis.
The intent of the attached ordinance is to provide more consistency and flexibility in the treatment of
principal versus accessory buildings, as well as provide some modest front setback reductions to better
encourage a pedestrian-friendly development pattern in most residential zone districts.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
"I move to recommend approval of the proposed ordinance amending Chapter 26 concerning residential
development standards."
Exhibits:
1. Comparable Jurisdiction Summary
2. Illustration of Principal and Accessory Building Inconsistencies
3. Proposed Ordinance
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
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EXHIBIT 2: ILLUSTRATION OF PRINCIPAL AND
ACCESSORY BUILDING INCONSISTENCIES
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards ll
V sz-
City of
Wheat Rdge
ITEM NO:
REQUEST FOR CITY COUNCIL ACTION
COUNCIL MEETING DATE: July 27, 2009
TITLE: COUNCIL BILL NO. 19-2009 - AN ORDINANCE AMENDING
CHAPTER 26 CONCERNING RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT
STANDARDS (CASE NO. ZOA-09-02)
® ORDINANCES FOR 1sT READING (07/27/2009)
❑ ORDINANCES FOR 2ND READING (08/24/2009)
® NO
City Mana
Residential development standards are primarily set forth in Sections 26-205 through 26-214 of
Chapter 26. These standards include building setbacks, size, and height, as well as minimum lot sizes
for different land uses. This code amendment was identified as a high priority item as part of the short
term zoning code amendments staff has been working on for a number of reasons as expressed in the
Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy (NRS).
The attached ordinance proposes various changes throughout the residential zone districts. The
following general changes are proposed.
• Classifying accessory buildings as major versus minor, and adding anew accessory buildings
section. The current code only regulates detached garages and storage sheds-for accessory
buildings. a 5
• Allowing accessory buildings to encroach into front and street setbacks where the existing
principal building already encroaches.
In most districts, reducing the front setback from 30' to 25'.
❑ PUBLIC HEARING
❑ BIDS/MOTIONS
r, T)T`Ol T TTTTl XTO
Council Action Item
July 27, 2009
Page 2
• In most districts, reducing side and rear setbacks for accessory buildings so that they are treated
similar to the principal building.
The Planning Commission reviewed this code amendment at a public hearing held on June 18, 2009
and gave a recommendation of approval.
COMMISSION/BOARD RECOMMENDATION:
The ordinance proposes amendments to Chapter 26 of the Wheat Ridge Code of Laws. All changes to
Chapter 26 require review and a recommendation from the Planning Commission. A public hearing on
this amendment was held before the Planning Commission on Thursday, June 18, 2009. Planning
Commission recommended approval of the attached ordinance. There were no persons in attendance to
give testimony regarding the proposed modifications.
STATEMENT OF THE ISSUES:
There are some clear issues with the current code regarding consistency in treatment of principal and
accessory buildings.
• In many cases (e.g., R-1B, R-1C, R-2, R-2A, R-3, R-3A), the principal structure has 5' side or
rear setbacks, yet any accessory structure over 8' in height must be 10' from side and rear
property lines. This effectively allows a 35' tall principal building 5' from a side or rear property
line, while a 15' tall detached garage must be 10' from a side/rear property line.
• Requiring 30' front setbacks in all districts is a more substantial requirement than any
jurisdiction surveyed, and it also discourages pedestrian friendly development.
• Requiring 30' front and street setbacks for corner lots creates a very small buildable area for
these properties.
• The only two accessory buildings addressed are detached garages and storage sheds. Buildings
such as gazebos, barns, greenhouses, and other accessory buildings should be addressed rather
than interpreted on a case-by-case basis.
The intent of the attached ordinance is to provide more consistency and flexibility in the treatment of
principal versus accessory buildings, as well as provide some modest front setback reductions to better
encourage a pedestrian-friendly development pattern and encourage reinvestment in the City's
residential zone districts.
Proposed new code language is represented in bold text. Deletions are shown with
ALTERNATIVES CONSIDERED:
Do not approve the proposed legislation.
FINANCIAL IMPACT:
None.
Council Action Item
July 27, 2009
Page 3
" I move to adopt Council Bill No. 19-2009, Case #ZOA-09-02, an ordinance amending Chapter 26
of the Code of Laws concerning residential development standards, on first reading, order it
published, public hearing set for Monday, August 24, 2009 at 7:00 PM in the City Council
Chambers, and that it take effect 15 days after publication."
or,
" I move to table indefinitely Council Bill No. 19-2009, Case #ZOA-09-02, an ordinance amending
Chapter 26 of the Code of Laws concerning residential development standards, for the following
reasons:
Report Prepared by: Meredith Reckert, Senior Planner
Report Reviewed by: Kenneth Johnstone, Director of Community Development
ATTACHMENTS:
1. Council Bill No. 19-2009
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
Council Bill No. 19-2009
Ordinance No.
Series of 2009 A ~S
-tgE W+1e ~bEE 11 10&- G/
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CODE OF CONCERNING RESIDENTIAL
DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS (CAS O. ZOA-09- 02)
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 Council of the City of Wheat Ridge finds that the proposed amendments
implement recommendations from the adopted Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT
RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1: Section 26-120 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26-120. Nonconforming lots, uses and structures.
C. Nonconforming structures and uses. Where a structure or use lawfully existed at the time of the
adoption or amendment of this chapter which could not be built under the current requirements of this
chapter because of lot area, lot coverage, required yards or the location of the structure on the lot, such
structure or use may be continued so long as it remains otherwise lawful, subject to the following.
1. Any one- or two-family dwelling structure or customary accessory structures may be enlarged,
altered or added to provided that all lot coverage requirements of the zoning district in which the
structure is located are met, and provided that the enlargement, alteration or addition does not increase
the extent of nonconforming setbacks by encroaching beyond the existing setback line. In instances of
corner lots, no enlargement, alteration or addition shall be permitted to encroach within the minimum
sight distance triangle as set forth in section 26-603B. In addition, no enlargement, alteration or addition
which extends within the nonconforming area shall result in the development of any additional dwelling
units.
2. If any structure or nonconforming portion thereof is demolished or reconstructed by the owner to an
extent of more than fifty (50) percent of its replacement cost, it shall not be reconstructed except in
conformity with the applicable provisions of this chapter.
3. If any structure should for any reason be moved from its location at the time of adoption or
amendment of this chapter, it shall conform to the provisions of the district in which it is located after it
is moved.
4. No existing structure devoted to a use not permitted by this chapter in the district in which located
shall be enlarged, extended, constructed, reconstructed, moved or structurally altered except in changing
the use of the structure to a use permitted in the district in which it is located.
5. Any nonconforming use may be extended throughout any part of the building which was designed or
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards l
arranged for such use at the time of adoption or amendment of this chapter, but no such use shall be
extended to occupy any land outside such building. In addition, no such use shall be extended to any
portion of the property outside of any building which was not used for said nonconforming use at the
time of the adoption or amendment of this chapter creating said nonconforming use.
6. Whenever any nonconforming use of a structure, or land, or a structure and land in combination is
discontinued for sixty (60) consecutive days or six (6) months during any three-year period (except when
government action impedes access to the property) the structure, or structure and premises in
combination shall not thereafter be devoted to a use not permitted in the district in which is located.
Nonconforming residential structures and uses are exempt from the provisions of this subparagraph.
Rezoning or special use permit applications for properties which are nonconforming uses at the time of
application, and where these applications are intended to bring the nonconforming use into use
conformance, shall not be charged application fees or be required to reimburse the city for direct
expenses related to the application review process.
7. Setback encroach rients,for aecessory buildings May, be allowed where the principal structure
Section 2: Sections 26-205 - 26-214 of the Code are amended to read:
Sec. 26-205. Residential-One District (R-1)
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low-
density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are incompatible with
the low-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maxiniuni
Building
Lot
Lot
Front
Yard
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
Width
Yard
Setback (a)
Setback
Setback
Principal
One-family
35'
25%
12,500sf
100'
30' (c
IS'
IS'
Buildings
dwelling
Group home
35'
25%
12,500 sf
100'
30' (c b)
15'
15'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
25%
1 acre
200'
30' (c b)
15 (e d)
20'
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Mi
imum
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum
Maximum
e
Minimum
Minimum
n
Front
Side
d
Rear
Yard
Height
Coverage
Lot
Area
Lot
Width
Yard
Setback (a)
Yar
Setback
Setback
(b a)
(b a)
Churches,
schools,
j
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
o
25 /o
I acre
200'
30' (c
15 (7
20'
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessor
l s
t
£
fl§
I `
O
R
N
K
Buildings
Y
A
All Other Uses
35'
"
25 /0
12,500 sf
100'
30' Qffl)
5
15'
N
( a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet
for all structures.
( b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
section 26-123)
Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 1, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-206. Residential-One A District (R-IA).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low-
density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are incompatible with
the low-density residential character.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Minimum
Minimum
minimum
Maximum
Height
Maximum
Building
Minimum
Lot
Minimum
Lot
Front
Yard
Side
Yard
Rear
Yard
k
S
tb
Coverage
Area
Width
Setback (a)
Setback
i
e
ac
b .
Principal
One-family
35'
30%
000 sf
9
75'
10'
15'
Buildings
dwelling
,
Group home
35'
30%
9,000 sf
75'
10'
15'
Churches,
schools,
government
and quasi-
government
buildings, golf
15
C&-
'
courses, small
35'
30%
1 acre
200'
20
day care
center, and
nursing,
elderly and
congregate
care homes
Accessory
Buildings
Y
~..W
LY-.
)
fi
3
m-1
fs
a
0u-...~,
M1
RON
All Other Uses
35'
30%
9,000 sf
75'
Ts-
10'
15'
Notes:
( a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of .an o fide
feet for all structures.
( b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
section 26-123)
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
See. 26-207. Residential-One B District.
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable small
lot, low-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the low-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
In
Maximo
Mi
i
Minimum
Minimum
minimum
Side
Mininums
Rear
Maximum
Height
Building
Coverage
n
mum
Lot
Area
Lot
Width (a)
Front
Yard
Setback (b)
Yard
Setback (e
Yard
Setback
1~ttraaf{5• rv'
One-family
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
a)
5' (
(c a)
10'
'Brtl3ings
dwelling
Group home
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
)
5' (j )
10'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' 3& (d b)
15' (g e)
20'
r
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory `
47,
Buildings
a7oz
zj
~~r.
GUOs2 sa
N~~
)~'~A
Zafd)
ee
offl i
n§~a3
x,s
PARe
t
cwt
AllOther U
ses
35'
40%
9,000 sf
60'
(s
5 (e)
10'
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Notes:
f) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of k
feet for all structures.
b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
section 26-123)
( e) A total of fifteen (15) feet side yard setback for every individual lot with a minimum of five (5) feet
on one (1) side.
setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 3, 10-27-03)
See. 26-208. Residential-One C District (R-1C).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable,
medium-density single-family residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which
are incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Max
imum
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Lot
Minimum
Front
Minimum
Side
Y
d
minimum
Rear
Yard
Height
Building
Coverage
Lot
Ar
ea
Width (a)
Yard
ar
Setback
Setback
Setback (b)
(c a)
(c a)
Riincipal
One-family
35'
40%
5
000 sf
50'
~ ~
5'
S'
Buildings
dwelling
,
rum O
'
'
Group home
35'
40%
5,000 sf
50'
r
5
S
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
lf
b
ildi
~f
u
ngs, go
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
1
15'
20'
courses, small
>
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
m;
g,
Buildings
yjn s
l'A9 aft
_
?
t
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
35'
I~ I
VIM I 19 NO
40% 1 9,000 sf 1 60'
P 3-
°i n
w,
061,111
5' 1 10
Notes:
4 l Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 3, 10-27-03)
See. 26-209. Residential-Two District (R-2).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low to
moderate-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the residential character.
S -Y5 ~x s
~W, Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of
feet for all structures.
Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
minimum
Rear
Maximum
Height
Building
Lot
Lot
Width (a)
Front
Yard
Yard
Yard
Coverage
Area
Setback (b)
Setback
Setback
'
5
'
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75
10
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
°
40%
1 acre
200'
15 (aj
20'
courses, small
6j)
day care center,
and nursing,
`
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory.
Buildings
`
0,
~S7A
~ h
Z,
1
'
V
oil
iQ7u'~a
.~i..fi'-
p
~
3 4
WOW
0
111
~
R?
1;
t
YY~~
-..xi
01-
's.
t-r r,.ikx
W211
~a
.
r~
3
a-.eti4t
All Other Uses
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
S'
10'
~
Notes:
(74 f) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of
feet for all structures.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
( ) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs maybe reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
section 26-123)
A total of fifteen (15) feet side yard setback for every individual lot with a minimum of five (5)
Fifteen-foot setback for the first storv and five (5) feet for each additional
Sec. 26-210. Residential-Two A District (R-2A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
minimum
minimum
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Rear
Maximum
Buildin
9
Lot
Lot
Front
Yard
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
Width (a)
Yard
Setback
Setback
Setback (b)
Frlneipat '
One-family
35'
°
40%
7
500 sf
60'
5'
10'
Buildings
dwelling
,
)
`
Two-family
35
40%
000 sf
9
75'
-W
5' per
10,
dwelling
,
b)
story
-
10'for one
Multifamily
13,050 sf
5 'per
or two story
buildings;
(3/more
35'
40%
)
100'
y,
story
15' for three
dwelling units)
story
buildings
'
z-scsscF~r+y}n
p
'
'
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75
~
5
per story
10
Churches,
schools,
government
and quasi-
government
buildings
golf
'
'
,
courses, small
35'
40/° o
l acre
200
15 (1
)
20
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
Buildin
s
0Dix f
t?
S lMa , M.
g
-M Jo?
1a it
Per unit)
Nl
/t
2)'' b
l
yy
Ah
4t7
Nl
d5
a>
i
rlau :;3
~ I
- l
I A-0
c
l
a
.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Notes:
(a) Comer lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
lave a mtmmum setback of
y srde or rear yard whichabuts a public str
An eet la l h
feet for all structures.
Front setbacks for one or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-
de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See
Figure 26-123.3.)
e) A minimum of four thousand three hundred fifty (4,350) square feet of land area shall be required
Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-2A district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all
of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area and/or
minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 6, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-211. Residential-Three District (R-3).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium to high-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium to high-density residential character.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 10
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Minimum
Rear
Maximum
U Ing
Lot
Lot
Front
Yard
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
Width (a)
Yard
Setback
Setback
Setback (b)
(d b)
b)
I}nncrgal
One-family
'
0
f
60'
10'
Buildings
dwelling
35
40%
7,50
s
Two-family
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75' rrv
(
~
5' per
10'
dwelling
b.
story
Multifamily
3/
d
lli
35'
40%
12,500 sf
'
100'
'
~ q
15 ( W
15' (ffi
(
more
we
ng
(00
S
units)
'
5'per
'
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75
10
story
-
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
'
'
15
'
courses, small
35
40%
1 acre
200
20
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
t
Buildings
~bY
1
6Qll sF (Pd
~
1
..k3E'
S
1n*
linos
4
Qs1
1\tA
lit
25e
S
5
A
1
li
1
t"
y
Y4
:a
eRsxsxa?~-eFacasc
L,.~i
wg
pr
~
~
v
-
x'i
ter,
s•.
=x"•_
P
All Other Uses
'
'
~1_
O
5' per
'
35
40%
7,500 sf
60
P
t
10
s
ory
Notes:
Comer lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
a) Side and rear yard setback shall be fifteen (15) feet for the first two (2) stories and an additional
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards I 1
five (5) feet for each additional story over two (2) stories.
Any srde or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of
is a feet for all structures.
p) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-
de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See
Figure 26-123.3.)
A minimum of three thousand six hundred thirty (3,630) square feet of land area shall be required
of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimurn lot area and/or
minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 7, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-212. Residential-Three A District (R-3A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
i
i
Mi
Minimum
Minimum
maximum
Maximum
Building
Minim
Lo um
t
M
n
mum
nimum
Lot Front
Side
Yard
Rear
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
Width (a) Yard
Setback (b)
Setback
Setback
(d b)
(d b)
Principal
One-family
35'
o
40%
500 sf
7
60' (g~
'
5
10'
Buildings
dwelling
,
7
Two-fami]
y
35'
40%
000 sf
9
S
s
75'
5'Per
]0
dwelling
,
story
Multifamily
12
500 sf
5e
15 (e a)
'
(3/more dwelling
35'
40%
,
Cf d)
100'
15 (76
j
units)
4An/
non
r=
5'
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 12
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-2A district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all
e) story
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf o 1510 e 15 ( a
1 acre 200' 20'
courses, small 35' 40 /o
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
Buildings ik.ry, btl`(l,.Sf (Pr
xa
Notes:
(a f) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
( a) Side and rear yard setback shall be fifteen (15) feet for the first two (2) stories and an additional
five (5) feet for each additional story over two (2) stories.
( 13) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of ittiy
~yWt30j' feet for all structures.
(e e) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-
de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See
Figure 26-123.3.)
A minimum of three thousand six hundred thirty (3,960) square feet of land area shall be require
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-2A district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 13
of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area and/or
minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 7, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-213. Agricultural-One District (A-1).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide a high quality, safe, quiet and stable
residential estate living environment within a quasi-rural or agricultural setting. In addition to large lot,
single-family residential and related uses, agricultural uses and activities will exist and be encouraged to
continue.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
Minimum
minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
minimum
Rear
Maximum
Building
Lot
Lot
Front
Yard
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area (d
b)
Width
Yard
S etback
Setback
Setback
(a)
Principal
One-family
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Buildings
dwelling
Group home
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
25%
1 acre
200'
30'(c)
15'
20'
_
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
Milli
0
25°/0'
IYYA
~
3i1 (
5_N
5'..<a
Buildings
Ian
35'
ta
~ 1
NMA!
3~
INIF"i r
All Other Uses
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30'
15'
15'
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 14
Notes:
(a) Any side yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for all
structures.
(b) Any rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for all
structures, except where greater setbacks are specifically required.
(c) Front setbacks for one-family or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which
abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb.
(See Figure 26-123.3.)
(d) Lots smaller than one (1) acre ma be used only for residential purposes
(c)Qpnn1drx rlar' .x ._4INpso buflJt-
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 2-26-01)
Sec. 26-214. Agricultural-Two Zone District (A-2).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide a reasonably compatible transition
between residential and more intensive agricultural land uses. It provides for large-lot, residential estate
living while allowing more commercially oriented, yet still agricultural operations. Design standards
have been included where possible to provide a reasonable interface between the two (2) extremes.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Max
imum
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
humum
Front
Side
Rear
Height
Building
Lot
Lot
Yard
Yard
Yard
S
b
k
Coverage
Area (e)
Width
Setback
Setback
et
ac
(a)
Principal
One-family
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Buildings.
dwelling
Group home
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
25%
1 acre
200'
30'(c)
15'
20'
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
IViajo
35',=
25°
S{
Oic~...
l'Sr "
5
Buildings
1VI35rpr=
3'-
E
IA
bNsj
10 :
rr
i
5PY
U RUM
. A 1
'
c
Y'.
now
.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 15
All Other Uses 35' 25% I acre 140' 30' 15' 15
Notes:
(a) Any side yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for all
structures.
(b) Any rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for all
structures, except where greater setbacks are specifically required.
(c) Front setbacks for one-family or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which
abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb.
(See Figure 26-123.3.)
(d) Accessory buildings housing livestock (including poultry, kennels and rabbits) shall be set back one
hundred (100) feet from the front property line. All other accessory buildings not listed shall have a
minimum front setback of seventy-five (75) feet.
(e) Lots smaller than one (1) acre may be used only for residential pu oses.
(fl' , 'ate 1. <0~~an'-~21
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01)
Section 3: Section 26-123 of the Code is amended to read:
See. 26-123. Definitions.
For the purpose of this zoning code, and as used or referred to in other sections, chapters or articles of the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, unless specifically defined otherwise, the following words and terns are
defined as follows. Words used in the present tense include the future; words in the singular number include
the plural, and words in the plural number include the singular; the word "building" includes the word
"structure" and the word "shall" is mandatory and not directory. Any word or term used in this chapter not
specifically defined above shall be interpreted as that word is defined elsewhere in the Wheat Ridge Code of
Laws, or if not defined elsewhere in the Code of Laws, as defined in Colorado Revised Statutes, or if not
defined in the statutes, as defined in Webster's Dictionary.
Setback line, rear. A line parallel with a rear lot line of a lot, tangent to that part of a building situated
on such lot which is closest to such side lot line and
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 16
Setback line, side. A line parallel with a side lot line of a lot, tangent to that part of a building situated
on such lot which is closest to such side lot line and intersecting two (2) other lot lines of such lot
Per story setback measured
from the closest point of the
additional story
Side/Rear Setback
Illustration
10' per story (in
this example)
Figure 26-123.1: Where side and rear setbacks are based on
the number of stories of the building, the setback is
measured from the closest point of the additional story, not
the first story. In this example, the closest point of the third
floor must be setback 15 feet (5 foot per story).
Section 4: Section 26-306 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26-611. Building setbacks.
A. Generally, building setback shall be measured at right angles from the closest property line to the
outermost wall of a building. In residential zone districts only, encroachments into required setback areas
shall not be permitted except as follows, provided however, that no encroachment into a side or rear yard
is allowed in the NC, RC, C-1, C-2, or I zone districts when adjacent to a residentially zoned property:
1. Porches, patios, decks and balconies
Porches, patios, decks and balconies which are open on at least two (2) sides may encroach into a front
setback up to eight feet or into a side or rear yard a maximum of one-third the distance to the closest
property line.
2. Architectural features
Cornices, eaves, beltcourses, sills, canopies or other similar architectural features, including bay
windows, may extend or project into a required front, side or rear yard not more than thirty (30) inches.
3. Chimneys
Chimneys may project into a required front, side or rear yard not more than two (2) feet, provided the
width of such yard is not reduced to less than three (3) feet.
4. Fire escapes, open stairways
A fire escape or open stairway may extend into any front, side or rear yard, provided the width of such
yard is not reduced to less than three (3) feet.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 17
B ~1bv~ rl' gtr M l a , I Ytr 100 e i#s fo r t pal 121 l *s
FW UP If fifty (50) percent or more of the main buildings within a built-up area in any district have more or less
than the required front yard, each new main building .t , , Wbave a front yard consistent with the
average building setbacks in the immediate area, exec t that for the pu ose of computing such average,
a front yard s` setback less that fifteen
(15) feet shall be deemed to be fifteen (15) feet. For the purpose of this regulation, an immediate area
shall be deemed "built-up" if fifty (50) percent or more of the lots within the same block and within two
hundred (200) feet on each side lot line . a of any particular lot have been improved
with buildings (S e, i 6e ' . However, in no instance shall a structure encroach into a required
sight distance triangle.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 9, 10-27-03)
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 18
Section 3: Section 26-625 of the Code is amended to read:
Section 26-625 1eserveci.Accsc`ry ]#nild~rigs
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 19
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 20
Section 6. Safety Clause. The City of Wheat Ridge 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 7. Severability. If any clause, sentence, paragraph, or part of this Zoning Code or the
application thereof to any person or circumstances shall for any reason be adjusted by a court of
competent jurisdiction invalid, such judgment shall not affect application to other persons or
circumstances.
Section 8. Supersession Clause. If any provision, requirements or standard established by this
Ordinance is found to conflict with similar provisions, requirements or standards found elsewhere in the
Code of Laws of the City of Wheat Ridge, which are in existence as of the date of adoption of this
Ordinance, the provisions, requirements and standards here shall supersede and prevail.
Section 7. This Ordinance shall take effect 15 days after final publication.
INTRODUCED, READ, AND ADOPTED on first reading by a vote of to on this
day of , 2009, ordered published in full in a newspaper of general circulation in the City of
Wheat Ridge and Public Hearing and consideration on final passage set for August 24, 2009, at 7:00
o'clock p.m., in the Council Chambers, 7500 West 29th Avenue, Wheat Ridge, Colorado.
READ, ADOPTED AND ORDERED PUBLISHED on second and final reading by a vote of to
this day of 2009.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 21
SIGNED by the Mayor on this day of 2009.
Jerry DiTullio, Mayor
ATTEST:
Michael Snow, City Clerk
Approved as to form by City Attorney
Gerald Dahl, City Attorney
1 st publication:
2nd publication:
Wheat Ridge Transcript
Effective Date:
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 22
A ditch may be relocated on a property; however the function of the ditch cannot
be impeded.
Chair REWHART closed public hearing.
Commissioner HOLLENDER encouraged residents to stay involved throughout
the process as more specific plans are developed.
It was moved by Commissioner HOLLENDER and seconded by
Commissioner DWYER to recommend approval of Case No. WZ-09-03, a
request for approval of a zone change from C-1 and C-1 with use restrictions
to Planned Commercial Development and for approval of an Outline
Development Plan for property located at 11808 West 441h Avenue for the
following reasons:
1. The rear portion of the property is currently underutilized.
2. The relocation of the I-70 on and off ramps dramatically changes the
commercial development potential of this property.
3. Evaluation criteria support approval of this request.
With the following conditions:
1. Under "Allowed Uses", a note be added specifying that drive-through
uses be limited to Development Area "A".
2. Use number 26 (garden supply stores) be modified to allow outside
display and storage.
3. Use number 55 (self storage) be removed from the list of permitted
land uses.
4. The following note be added: "At the time of specific ODP submittal,
a traffic impact analysis will be required which may necessitate
modification to access points shown on this document."
5. Notes be added in conformance with item 4 of the Public Works
comments dated May 4, 2009.
Commissioner MATTHEWS offered a friendly amendment to remove Use
No. 34 from the list of permitted land uses. The amendment was accepted by
Commissioner HOLLENDER and DWYER. The motion passed 5-0 with
Commissioners BRINKMAN, CHILVERS and TIMMS absent.
(The meeting was recessed at 8:40 p.m. and reconvened at 8:50 p.m.)
(Commissioner BRINKMAN returned to the dias at 8:50 p.m.)
B. Case No. ZOA-09-02: An ordinance amending Chapter 26 pertaining to
f residential development standards.
Planning Commission Minutes 5 June 18, 2009
Jeff Hirt was sworn in by Chair REINHART. He entered all pertinent documents
into the record and advised the Commission there was jurisdiction to hear the
case. He reviewed the staff report and digital presentation. Staff recommended
approval of the proposed ordinance. This ordinance has been previously
discussed at Planning Commission and City Council study sessions.
It was moved by Commissioner MATTHEWS and seconded by
Commissioner HOLLENDER to recommend approval of the proposed
ordinance amending Chapter 26 concerning residential development
standards. The motion passed 6-0 with Commissioners CHILVERS and
TIMMS absent.
8. OTHER ITEMS
• Jeff Hirt announced his resignation to take another position. The
Commission expressed appreciation for his fine work while serving in the
Community Development Department and wished him well in his new
endeavor.
• It was moved by Commissioner DWYER and seconded by Commissioner
MATTHEWS to cancel the July 2, 2009 Planning Commission meeting.
The motion passed unanimously.
9. ADJOURNMENT
It was moved by Commissioner HOLLENDER and seconded by
Commissioner DWYER to adjourn the meeting at 9:05 p.m. The motion
passed unanimously.
Davis Reinhart, Chair Ann Lazzeri, Secretary
Planning Commission Minutes 6 June 18, 2009
Case No. ZOA-09-02
Case No. ZOA-09-02
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Case No. ZOA-09-02
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Case No. ZOA-09-02
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Accessory buildings over tl in
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(allowed up to 35' in height)
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33
City of
Wheatj~dge PLANNING COMMISSION
Co,,mmumr DEVELOPMENT LEGISLATIVE ITEM STAFF REPORT
MEETING DATE: June 18, 2009
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CHAPTER 26 CONCERNING
RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS (ZOA-09-02)
CASE NO. ZOA-09-02
® PUBLIC HEARING
Case Manager: Jeff Hirt
Date of Preparation: June 11, 2009
® CODE CHANGE ORDINANCE
SUMMARY:
The attached ordinance proposes amendments to the development standards in residential zone districts.
Specifically, revisions are proposed to setback requirements for both principal and accessory buildings, as
well as a new section directly addressing accessory buildings. The attached ordinance represents the general
consensus reached at multiple study sessions with both the Planning Commission and City Council with
regards to some modest reductions in setbacks and generally more flexibility to make improvements on
residential property.
Notice for this public hearing was provided as required by the Code of Laws.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
BACKGROUND:
Residential development standards are primarily set forth in Sections 26-205 to 26-214 of Chapter 26 of
the Code of laws. These standards include building setbacks, size, and height, as well as minimum lot
sizes for different land uses. This code amendment has been a high priority item as part of the short term
zoning code amendments staff is working on for a number of reasons as expressed in the Neighborhood
Revitalization Strategy (NRS).
Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy
The adopted Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy clearly outlines the need to update the zoning code to
encourage improvements to existing residential properties to attract "strong" households. There are a
number of obstacles in the current zoning code related to residential development standards to encourage
desirable residential development and redevelopment in the current code:
• Wheat Ridge has, on average, significantly smaller homes than surrounding communities and the
county as a whole.' With this, there is a demand for expansions to existing homes, which often
includes additions and detached garages. For instance, the majority of the homes built in Wheat
Ridge were not originally built with two car garages, a commonly demanded item in the current
residential market.
• The current residential development standards,
specifically setback requirements, often times are very
restrictive in allowing any type of additions or
expansions. In many cases the existing setback
requirements do not reflect the existing conditions,
particularly in residential neighborhoods east of
Wadsworth. In other words, houses, garages, and sheds
very often encroach into required setbacks under current
regulations.
A major component of the NRS is also encouraging more
pedestrian-friendly neighborhoods 2 Every residential zone Typical Wheat Ridge residential
district has required large front yard setbacks, higher on average structure
than any surrounding jurisdiction in fact (see Exhibit 1 of this
staff report). While it is perhaps appropriate to keep these larger front setbacks in some of the city's
large lot residential zone districts, it may be beneficial to include some reductions in others.
Current Code
The current residential development standards generally include the following:
30' front setbacks in all districts, 30' setbacks from any street in all districts
Generally, 5' side/rear setbacks where accessory buildings are less than 8' in height; 10' side/rear
setbacks where accessory buildings are greater than 8' in height. This results in required 10'
side/rear setbacks for any detached garage in most zone districts. In some districts, there are 5'
1 See page 20 of the Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy (NRS).
2 Noted throughout the document; but see page 24 of the Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy (NRS) for a specific example
as part of the recommendations from this document.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 2
minimum side setbacks for principal structures, while garages must be 10' (See Exhibit 2 for an
illustration of this discrepancy).
• 35' maximum height for principal buildings
• 15' maximum height for detached garages; 10' maximum height for storage sheds.
• Minimum lot size/width, maximum lot coverage of a lot that can be covered by buildings)
varying by district.
History
2003 Zoning Code Amendments
It is important to summarize the similar zoning code amendment process undertaken in 2003. Initially,
these specific issues were discussed as part of the comprehensive zoning code rewrite in 2001. As new
issues emerged, subsequent meetings and research resulted in approval of the adopted ordinance taking
place in 2003.
The following general revisions were made in 2003 related to residential development standards:
• Reduced the allowable building height for accessory structures in all residential zone districts
from 20' to 15' for detached garages, and 20' to 10' for storage sheds. The general intent was to
limit the bulk and mass of the structures, and there were also concerns about living space above
the structures.
• Increased side and rear setbacks for accessory structures based on building height.
• Increased side and rear setbacks for principal structures in some districts - some based on height
(per story) and some an outright increase.
• Established a maximum size of 120 square feet for metal accessory buildings in all residential
zone districts.
• Revised the definition of an accessory building.
Surrounding Jurisdictions
Eight area jurisdictions were analyzed with regards to the residential development standards under
consideration for this zoning code amendment. Exhibit 1 includes a table with more detail on this
research. In general, the conclusions are as follows:
Wheat Ridge...
• Has the highest front setbacks on average
• Has lesser rear setbacks for principal structures on average
• Has higher side and rear setbacks for detached garages on average - most do not base the
setback on height
• Generally is more restrictive for corner lot setbacks. Five of the eight have reduced side and
rear yard setbacks for corner lots for principal structures on average
• Is consistent with regards to side setbacks for principal structures on average
• Is consistent with front setbacks for accessory structures in that they are the same as the principal
structure, but some jurisdictions simply require that they be behind the principal structure
• Is consistent with accessory buildings of lesser height for side and rear setbacks on average
• Is consistent with regards to building heights for principal structures on average
• Is consistent with regards to building heights for accessory structures on average
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Summary of Proposed Changes
Staff has proposed a number of changes throughout the residential zone districts reflected in the attached
ordinance. The following general changes were made:
• Classifying accessory buildings as major versus minor, and adding a new accessory buildings
section. The current code only regulates detached garages and storage sheds for accessory
buildings.
• Allowing accessory buildings to encroach into front and street setbacks where the existing
principal building already encroaches.
• In most districts, reducing the front setback from 30' to 25'
• In most districts, reducing side and rear setbacks for accessory buildings so that they are treated
similar to the principal building.
The following is a district-by-district summary of the changes:
District
Summary of Changes to Development Standards
All districts
• Detached garages/carports and storage sheds as
only accessory buildings regulated to major and
minor accessory buildings classification.
• Reference to new accessory buildings section.
Residential-.One District (R-1)
• None
Residential-One A District (R-IA)
• Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side/rear setbacks for major accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 5' if 10'
height, 10' if > 10'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
Residential-One B District (R-113)
• Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 10 if>10'
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 5'
Residential-One C District (R-1 C)
• Front/street setback: 30' to 20'
• Side/rear setbacks for all accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
District
I Summary 1 Changes 1 Development Standards
Residential-Two District (R-2)
e Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 5'
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 10 if>10'
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Side/rear setbacks for principal buildings, two
family and group homes: 5' to 5' per story
Residential-Two A District (R-2A)
. Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 10 if >10'
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Eliminate 5' per story side setback for single
family residential
Residential-Three District (R-3)
. Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 10 if>10'
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if > 8' height to 5'
• Eliminate 5' per story side setback for single
family residential
Residential-Three A District (R 3A) j
. Front/street setback: 30' to 25'
• Side setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Rear setbacks for major accessory buildings: 5' if
8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 10 if>10'
height'
• Side/rear setbacks for minor accessory buildings:
5' if 8' height, 10' if> 8' height to 5'
• Eliminate 5' per story side setback for single
family residential
Agricultural One (A-1)
• None, but new reference to major vs. minor
accessory buildings.
Agricultural Two (A-2)
• None, but new reference to major vs. minor
accessory buildings.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
Classifying Accessory Buildings
In consultation with the Planning Commission, staff has proposed classifying accessory buildings as
major and minor, rather than the current detached garages and sheds. Major accessory buildings would
have the same size and height restrictions as detached garages currently do, and similarly minor
accessory buildings would have size restrictions similar to that of storage sheds under the current code.
Under the proposed regulations, the size of the structure is the determining factor in its classification
regardless of the use. The following is an illustration of a typical proposed standard in a residential zone
district:
In addition to the size and height restrictions, the main difference between major and minor accessory
buildings is more restrictive setbacks in most districts. The general philosophy behind staff's
recommendation is to treat major accessory buildings similar to how the principal structure is treated
relative to setbacks, with lesser setbacks for minor accessory buildings. With this, where the principal
structure has side or rear setbacks 10' or greater, major accessory structures would have 5' side/rear
setbacks when less than 10' in height, and 10' side/rear setbacks when greater than 10' in height. Minor
accessory buildings generally would have 5' side and rear setbacks regardless.
Allowable setback encroachments
In order to provide more flexibility on challenging lots where there are existing principal structure
setback encroachments, staff has proposed allowing limited encroachments for accessory buildings in
these situations. Under the proposed ordinance, where the principal structure encroaches into required
front and street setbacks, the accessory structure may build in line with this encroachment. Detached
garages are given special consideration, as there may be issues with vehicles hanging out onto the right-
of-way where there is limited depth for a driveway along the street. The ordinance is written so that a
typical vehicle would either fit onto a driveway in these situations, or it would be unlikely a vehicle
would attempt to park there at all. This is accomplished by specifying that there cannot be a setback
between 5' and 18' from the street, as the typical vehicle depth to accommodate a vehicle is 18'.
RATIONALE FOR AMENDMENT
There are some clear issues with the current code regarding consistency in treatment of principal and
accessory buildings, as well as the goals of the NRS:
In many cases (e.g., R-113, R-1 C, R-2, R-2A, R-3, R-3A), the principal structure has 5' side or
rear setbacks, yet any accessory structure over 8' in height must be 10' from side and rear
property lines. This effectively allows a 35' foot tall principal building 5' from a side or rear
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
property line, while a 15' tall detached garage must be 10' from a side/rear property line (See
Exhibit 2).
Requiring 30' front setbacks in all districts is a more substantial requirement than any
jurisdiction surveyed (see comparable jurisdiction survey in Exhibit 1), and it also discourages
pedestrian friendly development.
Requiring 30' front and street setbacks for corner lots creates a very small buildable area for
these properties.
The only two accessory buildings addressed are detached garages and storage sheds. Buildings
such as gazebos, barns, greenhouses, and other accessory buildings should be addressed rather
than interpreted on a case-by-case basis.
The intent of the attached ordinance is to provide more consistency and flexibility in the treatment of
principal versus accessory buildings, as well as provide some modest front setback reductions to better
encourage a pedestrian-friendly development pattern in most residential zone districts.
RECOMMENDED MOTION:
"I move to recommend approval of the proposed ordinance amending Chapter 26 concerning residential
development standards."
Exhibits:
1. Comparable Jurisdiction Summary
2. Illustration of Principal and Accessory Building Inconsistencies
3. Proposed Ordinance
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards
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EXHIBIT 2: ILLUSTRATION OF PRINCIPAL AND
ACCESSORY BUILDING INCONSISTENCIES
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 11
EXHIBIT 3: PROPOSED ORDINANCE
CITY OF WHEAT RIDGE, COLORADO
INTRODUCED BY COUNCIL MEMBER
Council Bill No. -2009
Ordinance No.
Series of 2009
TITLE: AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CODE OF CONCERNING RESIDENTIAL
DEVELOPMENT STANDARDS (CASE NO. ZOA-09-02)
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 Council of the City of Wheat Ridge finds that the proposed amendments
implement recommendations from the adopted Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy; and
NOW THEREFORE BE IT ORDAINED BY THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF WHEAT
RIDGE, COLORADO:
Section 1: Section 26-120 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26-120. Nonconforming lots, uses and structures.
C. Nonconforming structures and uses: Where a structure or use lawfully existed at the time of the
adoption or amendment of this chapter which could not be built under the current requirements of this
chapter because of lot area, lot coverage, required yards or the location of the structure on the lot, such
structure or use may be continued so long as it remains otherwise lawful, subject to the following.
1. Any one- or two-family dwelling structure or customary accessory structures maybe enlarged,
altered or added to provided that all lot coverage requirements of the zoning district in which the
structure is located are met, and provided that the enlargement, alteration or addition does not increase
the extent of nonconforming setbacks by encroaching beyond the existing setback line. In instances of
corner lots, no enlargement, alteration or addition shall be permitted to encroach within the minimum
sight distance triangle as set forth in section 26-603B. In addition, no enlargement, alteration or addition
which extends within the nonconforming area shall result in the development of any additional dwelling
units.
2. If any structure or nonconforming portion thereof is demolished or reconstructed by the owner to an
extent of more than fifty (50) percent of its replacement cost, it shall not be reconstructed except in
conformity with the applicable provisions of this chapter.
3. If any structure should for any reason be moved from its location at the time of adoption or
amendment of this chapter, it shall conform to the provisions of the district in which it is located after it
is moved.
4. No existing structure devoted to a use not permitted by this chapter in the district in which located
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 12
shall be enlarged, extended, constructed, reconstructed, moved or structurally altered except in changing
the use of the structure to a use permitted in the district in which it is located.
5. Any nonconforming use maybe extended throughout any part of the building which was designed or
arranged for such use at the time of adoption or amendment of this chapter, but no such use shall be
extended to occupy any land outside such building. In addition, no such use shall be extended to any
portion of the property outside of any building which was not used for said nonconforming use at the
time of the adoption or amendment of this chapter creating said nonconforming use.
6. Whenever any nonconforming use of a structure, or land, or a structure and land in combination is
discontinued for sixty (60) consecutive days or six (6) months during any three-year period (except when
government action impedes access to the property) the structure, or structure and premises in
combination shall not thereafter be devoted to a use not permitted in the district in which is located.
Nonconforming residential structures and uses are exempt from the provisions of this subparagraph.
Rezoning or special use permit applications for properties which are nonconforming uses at the time of
application, and where these applications are intended to bring the nonconforming use into use
conformance, shall not be charged application fees or be required to reimburse the city for direct
exnenses related to the aoolication review process.
Section 2: Sections 26-205 - 26-214 of the Code are amended to read:
See. 26-205. Residential-One District (R-1)
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low-
density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are incompatible with
the low-density residential character.
3 NOTE: This language has been added as a cross reference for further allowed encroachments into setbacks set forth in the
new Section 26-625, Accessory Buildings.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 13
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Rear
Maximum
Building
Lot
Lot
Front
Yard
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
Width
Yard
Setback
Setback
Setback (a)
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
7
7
government
buildings, golf
35'
25%
1 acre
0'
3 (
1b)
20'
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessor
L~aJgY
15' "
j;00_Q sf
N/AQ
N/$
3Q' (c)r.,
1S`
15_'
MI%Qr
10';,j
4QQsf'
N/A
N(A
3U'(cj
T5"
75'_
Buildings
Detaelied
10500
f
garage
E
ear-pert-
43'-
1 000 s f
,
s
499
30,
45~
4-51-
nrryate..,,...fie
=
-
12,500 ..c
490=
4
13
shed-
49
4A0 st
-
)
All Other Uses
35'
25%
12,500 sf
100'
30' (q b)
5 ( s)
15'
Notes:
(ff a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet
for all structures.
( b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
section 26-123)
(e) A 1...:1ding or str ct..«o ..:t ieh 1"e. ses ,..'imal.. exeept a resideftee, shall be set 1, 7 fif+ (1 5)
feet G y lines and at least thit:t• (30) f et from a residence on an :;djaeeR4 °t 6 pare (e d) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
4 NOTE: Per Section 26-1203, an accessory building may be constructed on any lot in any district where single family
dwellings are permitted, regardless of the size and width of the lot. The current code implies here that a property owner needs
a certain size lot to build any accessory building, which is in conflict with this and current policy. With this, we have
suggested noting that minimum lot size and width for accessory buildings is not applicable in any residential zone district.
Minimum lot size and lot width requirements for principal buildings has been retained, as this is used as a basis for any new
lots that are created.
5 NOTE: This is a new note added throughout each zone district to call attention to this little used provision, in which front
setback reductions are allowed where the majority of the front setbacks on the block are less than 30'.
6 NOTE: This provision has been placed in the new Section 26-625, Accessory Buildings rather than being repeated for each
zone district (throughout each residential district below as well).
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 14
7
(e) Metal aeoessory buildings over one hi,~ndf ed twentt, (120) s"are feet in size are not permitted
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 1, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-206. Residential-One A District (R-lA).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low-
density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are incompatible with
the low-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
minimum
minimum
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Rear
Maximum
Building
Lot
Lot
Front
Yard
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
Width
Yard
Setback
Setback
Setback (a)
Principal
One-family
2Sr V (c
'
'
Buildings
dwelling
35'
30%
9,000 sf
75'
b) "
10
15
Group home
35'
30%
9,000 sf
75'
2_57'34 (e
10'
15'
b)
Churches,
schools,
government
and quasi-
government
buildings, golf
2? (c
15' (e d)
'
courses, small
35'
30%
1 acre
200'
b)
20
day care
center, and
nursing,
elderly and
congregate
care homes
Accessory
5! if c '
Buildings
5' if 10'
10' in
(d)
17aj or
15
1',.604 sf:
NIA
NIA
25' (c)
in height;
'
'
height,
'
;if > 10
10
if >
10
in heights
10' in
height
Minor
4004', s
NIA
N/A
25' (c):
5!
Detaeked-
15
000 s f
1
9,000 Sf-
73-
30
a: if - o'
,
~F
° if 8,
f
in
garage a
carport-
,
i n i a~ w
inheight
i
> S'
10' a a
°fl'
n-:-aw-' ~
IO-
400.4~
960031
7-5-'-
30
51 ke"
"~f
7 NOTE: This provision has been placed in the new Section 26-625, Accessory Buildings, rather than being repeated for each
zone district (throughout each residential district below as well).
8 NOTE: In order to stay consistent in the treatment of major accessory buildings with the principal structure, staff has
suggested an increased rear yard setback up to 10 feet for major accessory buildings where the principal structure has more
than a 10 foot rear setback minimum.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 15
Notes
(b a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty`fi~e
(25) thii4y (3 0) feet for all structures.
(c b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
section 26-123)
(e) Any building er sti=uetufe whieh hauses animals, exeept a residenee, shall be set baek fifteen (15)
r et from property tines and at toast thi ft., (zm f et free a "esidenee on an aa:aeent pareel
(0- d) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(e) Metal accessary buildiiigs e~,,er ene hundred twenty (120) squaf e feet ift size ai-7e not permitted.
Sec. 26-207. Residential-One B District.
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable small
lot, low-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the low-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
Maximum
Bu . .
ilding
. .
Minimum
Minimum
Lot
Minimum
Front
minimum
Side
Minimum
Rear
Height
Coverage
Lot
Area
Width (a)
Yard
Yard
Setback (c
Yard
Setback
Setback (b)
Principal 'I
One-family
35'
40%
500 sf
7
60'
25 30 (it b)
5 (e c)
10'
Buildings
dwelling
,
Group home
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
-W (d b)
25'
S (e c)
10'
Churches,
schools,
government and
'
2513& (d b)
15' (g e)
'
quasi-
35'
40%
1 acre
200
20
government
buildings, golf
courses, small
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 16
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
Buildings
Major 15' 600 sf, NIA NIA 28' (d) 5'
5'ifi-91 51 if 4- 8'
Deta 1.._d 1 i
600 f 7500 ..f_ 30
er OaTtnt 10' if > 8' 10, if > 8'
in height m4icqg~
5' (d) i 5' (d) i
4-8-kn 91
Prr~ate storage v,500 vr
- -tom g00 Si = r68 30L- height; 10' height; 8!
shed if ~ 91 in if> 8,
height- height
All Other Uses 35' 40% 9,000 of 60' 25 34Y (il k) 5 (a e) 10'
Notes
feet for both street frontages.
, .
(c a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of tw' ty:, (25)
thirty feet for all structures.
(d b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
section 26-123)
e) A total of fifteen (15) feet side yard setback for every individual lot with a minimum of five (5) feet
on one (1) side.
(d) Any building E)r struetufe whieh houses animals, e~Eeept a residence, shall be set back fifteen (15)
f from lines afid at least thii4 . (30) f et from a raside""0 en an adjacent pareeL
( e) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(g) Metal aeeessery buildings evef ene hundred twenty (120) square feet in size are not pefinitted.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 3, 10-27-03)
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 17
Sec. 26-208. Residential-One C District (R-1Q.
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable,
medium-density single-family residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which
are incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
minimum
minimum
Maximum
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Lot
Minimum
Front
Side
Y
d
Rear
Yard
Height
Building
Lot
Width (a)
Yard
ar
Coverage
Area
Setback (b)
Setback
(c )
Setback
(c a)
Principal '
One-family
35'
o
40/a
5
000 sf
50'
2,Ot.3& ('d
5'
5'
Buildings
- '
dwelling
,
b)
Group home
35'
40%
5,000 sf
50'
x (a
5'
S'
b)
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
20' 39 (d
15'
20'
'
courses, small
h)
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
Major
5, !
00'sf.
N/A
1V/A
5`
B/uild ngs
YTinor
10".
300 sf
NIA
N/A
20' (d)
le)
ne.wa
O if 9'9'
5' if 8, in
5L
4
699
f-
3
999
f
59-
39--(b)
in height;
wheight; 10, if
game or
carport-
7
-
5
;
5
10'>
iii height
81 in
height-
.
5' (d) i
if
o
d
i-
n•-c
:•rrvatc~.v~
rage
shed
4OL-
10..F
5,000 ..f
38-
_
4-91 height; 10'
if , i
hef$h_
(
)
9' m
in height;
°-'8, i
' rvTO-a~vm
height
All Other Uses
35'
40%
9,000sf
60'
20' 39' (i7
5 (e s)
10'
b)
Notes
feet for both street frontages.
(c a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty (2Q)
feet for all structures.
( b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 18
section 26-1
(e) Any building er stndeture which heiises animals, except a resideftee, shall be set baek-fifteen+1-5~)
C frem property > lines and at l east thirty (30) f et G'"" residence o _ an adjacent Pareel.
(e) Metal aeeessei=j, buildings ever one hundfed twenty (12.11, sElidare feet in size are not pefffiitted.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 3, 10-27-03)
See. 26-209. Residential-Two District (R-2).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable low to
moderate-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
M . .
Immum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Minimum
Rear
Maximum
Building
Lot
Lot
Front
Y
d
Yard
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
i t a
ar
Setback (b)
Setback
(c 0)
Setback
a)
Principal
'
One-family
35'
40/° °
9,000 sf
75'
- 3& (d
S' (e e)
10'
Buildings
dwelling
b)
Two-family
35'
°
40%
12,500 sf
100'
ZS' 30 (A
5 per
$ (orY 0
10
dwell in
g
b)
e)
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25' 30 (d
b)
5 per
skory(g)
10'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
(
15'(g e)
20'
courses, small
b)
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
-
congregate care
homes
Accessory
5 if 10'
Buildings
Major
15'
1,OOU;st"per
N
S(,
! height,
(f)
unit
N/A
/A
I.0`af~:lp?
WNW
Minor
10'
4UO.sf N
/A
NfA
35' {ii)
5'
S'
9 NOTE: Staff has recommended a 5' per story side setback for two family dwellings and group homes, consistent with how
they are treated in the R-2A, R-3, and R-3A districts.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 19
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Rear
Maximum
Lot
Front
Y
d
Yard
Height
Building
Coverage
Lot
Area
Width (a)
Yard
ar
Setback
Setback
Setback (b)
7
M7070
Detached
1
5!
1,000 usf pe
~
~
90
~5-
~8
51 if 81
in height;
5
I
he:~~"
garage Br
e Tert-
-
unit
5
10' if > 8'
in height
~ 91 in
height
e
44~
100
9
099
-
7-5i-
39=
5' (d) i
hei
ht; 10'
O (d) ifi-
¢'.r-nr eight;
.
shed
s
-
s
g
,fro .a
height-
10ro if> 8' i
height
-All Other Uses
25' 39 (d
-
'
35'
40%
000 sf
9
75'
5 (e s)
10
,
h)
Notes:
feet for both street frontages.
(c a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of t~enty dye (25)
thit+y (30) feet for all structures.
(i3 b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to
ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3 at the end of
section 26-123)
(e e) A total of fifteen (15) feet side yard setback for every individual lot with a minimum of five (5)
feet on one (1) side.
(d) Any building or stfuet~dfe whieh heeses animals, exeept a residenee, shall be set back fifteen (15)
feet.
(g e) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(g) Metal aeeessorybttildings over ene hundred twenty (120) sqiiafe feet in size are net pennitted.
Sec. 26-210. Residential-Two A District (R-2A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 20
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
M
i
Mi
i
Mi
i
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum
ax
mum
Bulming
minimum
Lot
n
mum
Lot
n
mum
Front
Side
Yard
Rear
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
Width (a)
Yard
Setback
Setback
Setback (b)
Two-family
35'
40% °
9
,000 sf
75'
25' 38 (d
5' per
10'
dwelling
b)
story
10' for one
Multifamily
'
or two story
(3/more
35'
40%
13,050 sf
100'
25130! (d
5
per
buildings;
'
dwelling units)
(c E)
b)
story
for three
15
story
buildings
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25^38' (a
5' per story
10'
b)
Churches,
schools,
government
and quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25 70- (tj
15' (f e)
20'
courses, small
b)
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
64Q sf
Buildings
Major
1S
(pex uniC)
25-. (d); :
5'-
m h25ght,
C
N/A
N/A
,
l0 if? lU.'
tn,lieigtif
0414
40
N/A
N/A
Minor
1Q' :
,
S'
5' if 8'
51 if 41
Detache
45=
68„0s€(per
9,000 sf
75
38' (b)
'ate
height; 10' zF
oarpert
in height
height-
a
d
if<-
_
18
000 f
9
7
51
30L
h
i
ht
0,
(
)
°-am height; r
sheer
d{.
,
-
-
e
g
;
if> height
in, u~w in
height
All Other Uses
'
25 34Y (d
'
'
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75
(g)
b)
5
10
Notes:
feet for both street frontages.
(c a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of f4f81Tt)? five(25)
thi feet for all structures.
C b) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 21
de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See
Figure 26-123.3.)
(e e) A minimum of four thousand three hundred fifty (4,350) square feet of land area shall be required
for each dwelling unit for multifamily buildings.
(d) Any building er stpdeture whieh heidses animal I exeept a rasidenee, shall be set back fifteen (15)
€eeE
(f e) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
Resei-ved_-.
(g) Metal aeeessoi-j, buildings ever one Inindred twenty (120) square feet in size are net i3efmitted.
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-2A district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all
of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area and/or
minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 6, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-211. Residential-Three District (R-3).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium to high-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium to high-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Mi
i
m Minimum
minimum
Minimum
Maximum
Maximum
Building
Minimum
Lot
n
mu
Lot Front
Side
Yard
Rear
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
Width (a) Yard
Se back
t
Setback
Setback (b)
(it
b)
(d b)
Principal
One-family
35
o
40%
500 sf
7
60' (g f)
10'
Buildings
dwelling
,
Two-family
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75 (g f)
7
10'
dwelling
Multifamily
(3/more dwelling
35'
40%
12,500 sf
(6
100'
15'
15' a)
d)
units)
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75' 2S' 3W (e
e)
5' per
stor
10'
y
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 22
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Minimum
Rear
Maximum
Lot
Front
Y
d
Height
Building
Lot
i t a
Yard
Yard
ar
Coverage
Area
Setback
Setback
Setback (b)
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' 3W (e
15' (b a)
20'
courses, small
e
)
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
Buildings
Major
15?
60Qsf{p'er
-
25
`(e)
5`
m=heagltt,
.
lg)
unit) ,
l\(;A
ll/ Y
,
Z6? tf > ] 0„?
iu'heiglit
1YCArtoY.
70_;'
400 sf/,4
;a
NY
Y/A
25.n(@).i
5!
S`
.
`
d,u.
51 ifi-Q1
5' if Q,:«
Detaelied gmage
or carport
-5~
6000 sfpe
unit
95000 Sf
75~
in height
10, if > 81
in height-
~-nx
height; 10' i
> 8' i
heiglrt-
'
i
t
499 s€4
5' (e) i
a is :c<-
gf he:
l
rrro
avci
oEagc
shed
49-
9,000 c
7-N-
30
height; 10
i€>-8-in
hetght-
g
n' if 1-o- > 8'
height_
All Other Uses
~
25' 31 (e
' per
5
'
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
)
st ry
10
e
Notes:
feet for both street frontages.
(e a) Side and rear yard setback shall be fifteen (15) feet for the first two (2) stories and an additional
five (5) feet for each additional story over two (2) stories.
O _b) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty fire
(2 they (30) feet for all structures.
( e) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-
de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See
Figure 26-123.3.)
(f d) A minimum of three thousand six hundred thirty (3,630) square feet of land area shall be required
for each dwelling unit for multifamily buildings.
f~
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 23
(g) Meta4 aeeessefy buildings oVef ene I+uadr-ed twenty (120) sEpiafe feet in size are net i3et:Fnitted.
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-2A district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all
of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area and/or
minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 7, 10-27-03)
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 24
See. 26-212. Residential-Three A District (R-3A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
medium-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum
m
Minimu
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Rear
Maximum
Building
Lot
Lot
Front
Height
Coverage
Area
Width (a)
Yard
Setback
Setback
Setback (b)
(d b)
(d b)
Principal
One-family
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60' (g f)
25' 3& (e
5' per
10'
Buildings.:
dwelling
e)
4efy
Two-family
35'
40%
000 sf
9
75 (g f)
3& (0
5' per
10'
dwelling
,
e)
story
Multifamily
(3/more dwelling
35'
40%
12,500 sf
100'
25' W (:e.
15' (e a)
15' (c a)
d)
e)
units)
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
~ 30 (e
5' per
10'
e)
story
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' 39! (e
15' ('t a)
20'
courses, small
e)
day care center,
-
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
Buildings
Major
15'
fi60:sf (per
A
25 (e)+
5-
8 :in height',
I'
(g)
:
.
n~titj
N/A
N/
VA 10'
8' in height
MintiY
10'"
400 sf/4
N/A
N/A
2~'=(e)
50,
Detached o"`
OF earpOrt-
15=
~
o nnn r
~
~5
-
aa<- Q'
inheight;
10, 4- 91
41 height-
51 if<-Q':..
he"-`g hr'n'
> in
hetght-
Pnyat
49
4
4
00
f
9,000
7-5L
39=
81
hei
ht; 1'
9'in he
ight;
shed
-
d.u.
s
g
if ~ 91 in h
ni
if > 8' i
height
All Other Uses
35'
40%
500 sf
7
60'
X5' -X (e
5' per
10'
9
e)
story
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 25
Notes:
(a f) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(ea) Side and rear yard setback shall be fifteen (15) feet for the first two (2) stories and an additional
five (5) feet for each additional story over two (2) stories.
(d b) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of twenty five
(25) thirty (30) feet for all structures.
(e e) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-
de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See
Figure 26-123.3.)
( d) A minimum of three thousand six hundred thirty (3,960) square feet of land area shall be required
for each dwelling unit for multifamily buildings.
(e) A" building or stiuetiife whieli houses anifnals, exeept a residenee, shall be set baek fifteen (15)
feet.
(g)'See on 26 62 for_adc7 tlonalregwift nspertainu g to aeees"sort' buildings
(g) Metal aec~~ssoi-y buildings ever efie hundred twefAy (120) square n si5~e are not penn
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction of
multifamily dwelling units in the R-2A district, where such structures and their reconstruction meet all
of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area and/or
minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconfonning structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 7, 10-27-03)
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 26
See. 26-213. Agricultural-One District (A-1). 10
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide a high quality, safe, quiet and stable
residential estate living environment within a quasi-rural or agricultural setting. In addition to large lot,
single-family residential and related uses, agricultural uses and activities will exist and be encouraged to
continue.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
minimum
Minimum EM
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Rear
Maximum
Building
Lot
Lo
t
Front
Yard
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area (d
.
Width
Yard
Setback
Setback
Setback
Principal
One-family
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Buildings
dwelling
Group home
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
25%
1 acre
200'
30'(c)
15'
20'
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
Major
35'
ZS%~
/
NtA
30'.: {t)
15?. '
S:;
Buildings
minor
25%,
N/A
NIA
30':'=
15' '
5' i
Detached garage
35
25%-
1 aefe
AV
3' -(E
15'
5=
Pfivate e
shed ba .
35!-
250,/v
4 acre
AQ,
~
4-51-
5=
All Other Uses
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30'
15'
IS'
Notes:
(a) Any side yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for all
structures.
(b) Any rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for all
structures, except where greater setbacks are specifically required.
(c) Front setbacks for one-family or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which
abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb.
(See Figure 26-123.3.)
(d) Lots smaller than one (1) acre may be used only for residential purposes.
10 NOTE: To be consistent with how accessory buildings are proposed to be defined, staff has modified the terminology
below accordingly. The standards do not change in the A-1 and A-2 districts however.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 27
(e) See Section 26',625 for additionahregulatiot►s per`tainirg fo accessory buildings:
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01)
Sec. 26-214. Agricultural-Two Zone District (A-2).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide a reasonably compatible transition
between residential and more intensive agricultural land uses. It provides for large-lot, residential estate
living while allowing more commercially oriented, yet still agricultural operations. Design standards
have been included where possible to provide a reasonable interface between the two (2) extremes.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
i
Minimum
minimum
Maximum
Maximum
Building
Minimum
Lot
Minimum
Lot
Min
mum
Front
Side
Yard
Rear
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area (e)
Width
Yard
Setback
Setback
Setback
(a)
(b)
Principal '
One-family
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Buildings
dwelling
Group home
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30' (c)
15'
15'
Churches,
schools,
government and
quasi-
government
buildings, golf
35'
25%
1 acre
200'
30'(c)
15'
20'
courses, small
day care center,
and nursing,
elderly and
congregate care
homes
Accessory
Major
3S!"_
25%,
N/i
N/A
3U' .(e)d
Builrungs
Minor
35'
25%
N/A
NfA
30' ; (d)
15'
S'
{ff
Detacshed
garage E)
carport-
3-5-
25%
n acre
14~
~Q'
n
e
shed, barn
si'elt melc~ ~z"~ ete-
3-5!-
2S/~
1 acre -
14~-
30, tea`
15--
_5 L
All Other Uses
35'
25%
1 acre
140'
30'
15'
15'
Notes:
(a) Any side yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for all
structures.
(b) Any rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30) feet for all
structures, except where greater setbacks are specifically required.
(c) Front setbacks for one-family or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which
abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 28
(See Figure 26-123.3.)
(d) Accessory buildings housing livestock (including poultry, kennels and rabbits) shall be set back one
hundred (100) feet from the front property line. All other accessory buildings not listed shall have a
minimum front setback of seventy-five (75) feet.
(e) Lots smaller than one (1) acre may be used only for residential purposes.
(f) See Section 26-62.5 foX additi6nal regulations!pertaining to accessory buildings:
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01)
Section 3: Section 26-123 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26-123. Definitions.
For the purpose of this zoning code, and as used or referred to in other sections, chapters or articles of the
Wheat Ridge Code of Laws, unless specifically defined otherwise, the following words and terms are
defined as follows. Words used in the present tense include the future; words in the singular number include
the plural, and words in the plural number include the singular; the word "building" includes the word
"structure" and the word "shall" is mandatory and not directory. Any word or term used in this chapter not
specifically defined above shall be interpreted as that word is defined elsewhere in the Wheat Ridge Code of
Laws, or if not defined elsewhere in the Code of Laws, as defined in Colorado Revised Statutes, or if not
defined in the statutes, as defined in Webster's Dictionary.
Setback line, rear. A line parallel with a rear lot line of a lot, tangent to that part of a building situated
on such lot which is closest to such side lot line and intersecting two (2) other lot lines of such lot.
Setback line, side. A line parallel with a side lot line of a lot, tangent to that part of a building situated
on such lot which is closest to such side lot line and intersecting two (2) other lot lines of such lot.
11 NOTE: In several residential zone districts, there is a side and/or rear setback based on the number of stories of the
building. The language simply reads, e.g., "5 foot per story". It has been difficult to interpret whether this means the entire
structure orjust the additional story. For example, if there was an existing one story structure setback 5' could a property
owner build a second story on top of this and in line with the existing setback? Or does only the second story have to be
setback based on the "per story" requirement? Or can they not build up at all'? Staff suggests the following to allow
additional stories onto existing one story structures that may be less than 5' from property lines with requiring "stepping
back" of the upper floors.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 29
Per story setback measured
from the closest point of the
additional story
Side/Rear Setback
Illustration
10' per story (in
this example)
Figure 26-123.1: Where side and rear setbacks are based on
the number of stories of the building, the setback is
measured from the closest point of the additional story, not
the first story. In this example, the closest point of the third
floor must be setback 15 feet (5 foot per story).
Section 4: Section 26-306 of the Code is amended to read:
Sec. 26-611. Building setbacks.
A. Generally, building setback shall be measured at right angles from the closest property line to the
outermost wall of a building. In residential zone districts only, encroachments into required setback areas
shall not be pennitted except as follows, provided however, that no encroachment into a side or rear yard
is allowed in the NC, RC, C-1, C-2, or I zone districts when adjacent to a residentially zoned property:
1. Porches, patios, decks and balconies
Porches, patios, decks and balconies which are open on at least two (2) sides may encroach into a front
setback up to eight feet or into a side or rear yard a maximum of one-third the distance to the closest
property line.
2. Architectural features
Cornices, eaves, beltcourses, sills, canopies or other similar architectural features, including bay
windows, may extend or project into a required front, side or rear yard not more than thirty (30) inches.
3. Chimneys
Chimneys may project into a required front, side or rear yard not more than two (2) feet, provided the
width of such yard is not reduced to less than three (3) feet.
12 NOTE: This language has been added as a cross reference for further allowed encroachments into setbacks set forth in the
new Section 26-625, Accessory Buildings.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 30
4. Fire escapes, open stairways
A fire escape or open stairway may extend into any front, side or rear yard, provided the width of such
B. Allowed;Front Yazd SUN -,Vnexoach'inents CoY-Print pal'l3uilthh9s
If fifty (50) percent or more of the main buildings within a built-up area in any district have more or less
than the required front yard, each new main building may shallt3 have a front yard consistent with the
average building setbacks in the immediate area, except that for the purpose of computing such average,
a front and ' ,.__.,s of lift""` feet shall be Eleem d to be Fn° (50 f et ~ setback less that fifteen
(15) feet shall be deemed to be fifteen (15) feet. For the purpose of this regulation, an immediate area
shall be deemed "built-up" if fifty (50) percent or more of the lots within the same block and within two
hundred (200) feet on each side lot line witlnn the same-blockr4 of any particular lot have been
improved with buildings (SeeTguYe 26=611.1). However, in no instance shall a structure encroach into
a required sight distance triangle.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 9, 10-27-03)
Section 3: Section 26-625 of the Code is amended to read:
13 NOTE: This is a little used provision, therefore staff has suggested changing the language from mandatory to optional to
provide more flexibility for property owners.
14 NOTE: Staff has added this provision, as it is confusing under current regulations as to whether or not the 200' extends to
other blocks or on the same block. Its staff s opinion that only the subject block should be looked at, as crossing a street may
result in a completely different zone district and characteristics.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 31
Section 26-625 Accessory Buildings 15
A. Purpose
The purpose of this section is to allow accessory buildings that are incidental and subordinate to the
principal use and structure on a property and to set forth standards that help to minimize adverse
impacts of these buildings on adjacent property. The purpose of this section is also to allow
flexibility to construct accessory buildings on challenging properties relative to size and existing
physical improvements while minimizing adverse impacts on surrounding properties.
B. Applicability
All accessory buildings on residentially zoned property shall be subject to the provisions set forth in
this section, and those in Sections 26-205 to 26-214 (residential and agricultural zone district
regulations). 16 In the event of a conflict between the accessory building standards in this section and
any other requirements of this Code, this section shall control.
C. Accessory Building Standards
1. General Standards
a. Location
i. No accessory building shall be located on a vacant lot devoid of any primary or main
building.
ii. No accessory building shall be located within any platted or recorded easement or over
any utility, except as otherwise expressly agreed to in writing by the City or utility
provider, as applicable.
b. Size and Height
The size and height of accessory buildings shall be as set forth in the residential zone district
regulations in Sections 26-205 to 26-214.
c. Miscellaneous Provisions
i. Metal Accessory Building Restriction
Metal accessory buildings over 120 square feet are not permitted in any residential zoning
district. 17 Frame-built residential accessory structures over 120 square feet in size may be
allowed to have metal siding as long as the material has a textured wood grain appearance
similar to horizontal clapboard. Vertically placed vinyl-clad siding is not allowed.
ii. Buildings Housing Animals
Any building that houses animals, except a residence, shall be setback a minimum of
fifteen (15) feet from property lines and at least thirty (30) feet from a residential structure
on an adjacent property, except as otherwise specified in any zone district. 18 19
iii. Gates and Guard Houses
15 NOTE: This is an entirely new section to address accessory building standards in one location, rather than scattered across
the various zone districts. Further discussion is provided in the staff report.
16 NOTE: With their being no accessory buildings currently allowed on nonresidential property, these would only apply to
residential.
17 NOTE: This provision is taken from each of the residential zone districts, where it is repeated. Staff has suggested striking
that language and stating it once here. We have also added language that allows some types of metal siding.
18 NOTE: This provision comes from multiple locations in the current code - including as a footnote in every residential
zone district (Sec. 26-205-212) and Sections 26-605 and 606. Staff has suggested striking this language in the residential
zone districts, as it is repeated each time for each district.
19 NOTE: This last statement has been added as the A-2 district has more restrictive standards for these buildings.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 32
Gates and guard houses are only allowed as part of an approved planned development.
iv. Dwelling Unit Restriction
Except as otherwise expressly allowed, no dwelling unit shall be located in any accessory
building.
2. Major and Minor Accessory Buildings 20
Major and minor accessory buildings shall be as defined in Sections 26-205 to Section 26-214
based on size and height.
3. Allowable Setback Encroachments for Accessory Buildings
Accessory buildings may encroach into required setbacks as set forth below:
a. Front Yards and Side and Rear Yards Abutting Public Streets
Where an existing principal building that lawfully existed at the time of the adoption or
amendment of this section encroaches into a required front yard setback or a required side or
rear yard setback abutting a public street, an accessory building may encroach into the
required setback as follows, provided that
there shall be no encroachment into the
minimum sight distance triangle as set
forth in section 26-60313:
i. Detached Garages and Carports
Detached garages and carports may
build in line with the nonconforming
principal building, as long as the
detached garage is located behind the
front or street-facing facade of the
principal building, except as follows:
a) Where the garage door or main
vehicular access is located parallel
to the street, the setback cannot be
between five (5) feet and eighteen
(18) feet. The purpose of this
regulation is to allow setback
encroachments where there will
be not be the possibility of
vehicles parked in the driveway in
conflict with public rights-of-way.
(See Figures 26-625.1)
b) Where the garage door or main
vehicular access is located
perpendicular to the street, the
detached garage or carport may be
built in line with the principal
building. The purpose of this
regulation is to allow setback
20 NOTE: Staff has suggested differentiating accessory buildings by type, as opposed to the current standards where only
detached garages and storage sheds are addressed. The current code makes it difficult to fit any other type of building into a
"box" - e.g., gazebos, greenhouses, barns, etc. See pages 5-6 of this staff report for more explanation.
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 33
encroachments where there will be not be the possibility of vehicles parked in the
driveway in conflict with public rights-of-way.
c) Where the garage door or main vehicular access is located parallel to and accessed off
of an arterial street, the detached garage may not encroach into the required setback.
d) The Community Development Director may require modified setbacks in these
instances where there may be potentially hazardous conditions. 21
ii. All Other Accessory Buildings
Accessory buildings that do not have any vehicular access may build in line with the
nonconforming principal structure in front yards and side and rear yards abutting public
streets, as long as the accessory building is located behind the front or street-facing fapade
of the principal structure.
21 NOTE: Staff has inserted this provision to allow some discretion where there may be unusual circumstances where there
are allowable setback encroachments, but there may be other issues involved (e.g., the distance between the edge of pavement
and the property line would create a 12' driveway with a 5' setback, and vehicles may be hanging out on the right-of-way).
ZOA-09-02/ Residential Development Standards 34
Residential Development Standards Meeting 5.21.09 - KJ, MR, JH
• Get rid of use approach
• Keep major and minor
• Major will have a 5' rear setback if <10' in height, and a 10' rear setback if>10'
in height, where the principal structure has a 10' or greater rear setback. Keep 5'
side setbacks
• Check numbers - R-I C is off with major/minor maximum sizes per the old
standards (see notes), as is the minimum lot size and lot width. Check across the
board.
• Get rid of minimum lot size and lot width across the board for accessory
buildings. You can build accessory buildings where there is a principal structure
regardless of the size of the lot.
• Get rid of maximum number of accessory building language on page 31. This is
current policy, but we don't need to call attention to it.
• Beef up what is considered an acceptable/not acceptable metal accessory building.
• Call more attention to how the director may not allow side setback encroachments
for detached garages where it may be a hazardous situation (illustration?) (page
33)
• Don't use hanging out on the right of way. Inappropriate.
o ((OV'lh ~6vu sf4ac(< het If,/, 11 '4rd.F-Y-ec(
Page 1 of 3
From: Kenneth Johnstone
Sent: Tuesday, March 31, 2009 3:26 PM
To: Jeff Hirt
Cc: Meredith Reckert; Adam Tietz
Subject: RE: Classifying Accessory Structures
After reviewing your comments, I tend to like Option 2, which puts everything in a "box". By defining
a detached garage as a major by definition, we avoid the option for people putting a door on it to get
around the shed height limit by placing a garage door on a large shed. We regulate the bulk impacts on
adjacent properties based on size and height, which is the direction that PC seemed to support. I
welcome additional discussion.
Ken Johnstone, MCP
Community Development Director
Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033
Office. Phone: 303-235-2844
From: Jeff Hirt
Sent: Thursday, March 26, 2009 10:55 AM
To: Adam Tietz; Meredith Reckert; Kenneth Johnstone
Subject: Classifying Accessory Structures
In drafting the revised residential development standards in ordinance form following up from our PC study
sessions, I've come across an issue with our approach that I would like to get some feedback on. This may need
more discussion at a meeting, or if you read below we may be able to arrive at a conclusion for how to proceed. I
know its a lot of information but it's a more complex issue than I thought. Whenever you all have time to look at
this and provide feedback so we can get the ordinance drafted that would be much appreciated.
The issue at hand is how to treat accessory structures. If you'll recall, we decided to take the approach of
classifying major vs. minor accessory structures, where major would have the same standards as detached
garages (square footage, height, setbacks) and minor would have the same standards as a shed. In sitting down
and actually drafting the ordinance, some flaws were revealed with this approach that are outlined below. The
way I see it in order to implement this, there are two options that are also spelled out below.
Issue Summary
• The intent of the major/minor classifications was to regulate the structures based on their size - in other
words larger structures would have greater setbacks. There was a consensus from PC not to further
regulate/classify them by use (barn vs. shed vs. garage, etc.) as a basis for being considered major/minor.
We had talked about saying that if the structure was over a certain size it was major regardless, but if it
was under this size and a barn or greenhouse or work studio for example, it would be major regardless.
This would allow more flexibility to fit all types of accessory structures into a "box" - meaning gazebos,
greenhouses, barns, etc. that are not currently addressed and we either have to call them sheds or
garages.
• The issue is that under the proposed standards, in most districts major and minor accessory structures
would have the same setbacks. The difference is in size. A major could go up to 15' or 1,000 square feet
for example in the R-2 district, while a minor would be 10' or 400 square feet maximum. But they would
have the same setbacks.
• So unless we specifically define the structures based on use, there is nothing to stop someone from saying
they want a 15' tall shed 1,000 square feet, 5' from side/rear property lines in most districts. I don't believe
we want this to happen.
• Further, there was a consensus that detached garages should have slightly different standards because of
file://U:\Code Amendments\Drafting\Short Term\Residential Development Standards\RE... 04/23/2009
Page 2 of 3
the driveway depth issue. We talked about allowing the detached garage to be behind the front fagade of
the principal structure along a street where there are existing encroachments, but not to the point where
cars would be hanging out on the right-of-way. The consensus was to somehow draft a provision that
allows detached garage setbacks to encroach either 18' or more, or in the range of 5' - with no in
between. The purpose is to either allow depth for cars to park there or not at all. For example, with a 10'
setback someone would try to park a car there and we'd be contributing to the problem where there is not
enough depth. I have not found any examples of this, including in Denver where I had a discussion with a
planner there.
So the issue is this - it seems we need to have different standards for three types of accessory structures
- major, minor, and detached garages.
With this, I can suggest two options for the ordinance and of course I'm open to any ideas.
Option 1:
• Have three distinct categories of accessory buildings - major, minor, and detached garages.
• Draft a new accessory buildings section (to be inserted into the supplemental regulations) that is
referenced throughout the zone districts that contains all of the details of major/minor/detached garages,
etc. Most communities I've looked at do it this way.
• Define major as barns, stables, anything for the keeping of animals, greenhouses, and any other major
structures we can think of - excluding detached garages which would be separate.
• Define minor as sheds, gazebos, playhouses, cabanas, and anything else we can think of.
• We would have to carefully define the difference between a shed and some of the major categories so
people would not be able to simply call it a barn for example to get more square footage.
• Major would be allowed up to 15' and a larger square footage, with increased setbacks in some districts
(but the same setbacks in others)
• Minor would be allowed up to 10' and a smaller square footage, generally with 5' side/rear setbacks
regardless
• Detached garages would generally have the same standards as the major category, but the new accessory
building section would be referenced that would provide allowances for encroachments and set forth the
standards to prevent driveway depth issues.
Option 2:
• Have two categories of accessory buildings - major and minor.
• Detached garages would be considered major, along with all of the other uses noted above (barns,
greenhouses, etc.)
• The same standards from option one would apply for major vs. minor - but there would just be a footnote
in the districts that there may be additional standards for detached garages that would be set forth in the
separate accessory buildings section.
Option 3:
• Have two categories of accessory buildings - detached garages and minor.
• Draft a new accessory buildings section (to be inserted into the supplemental regulations) that is
referenced throughout the zone districts that contains all of the details of detached garages/minor, etc.
Most communities I've looked at do it this way.
• Essentially anything but a garage would be considered a minor accessory structure - this would include
barns, stables, greenhouses, gazebos, etc.
• Detached garages would be allowed up to 15' and a larger square footage, with increased setbacks in
some districts (but the same setbacks in others). The issues of allowed encroachments and driveway
depths would be addressed in the accessory building section.
• Minor would be allowed up to 10' and a smaller square footage, generally with 5' side/rear setbacks
regardless.
There are definitely pros/cons to each of the approaches. Based on comparable jurisdictions there seem to be
two approaches with two extremes - either the simple approach of treating all accessory buildings the same or
file://U:\Code Amendments\Drafting\Short Term\Residential Development Standards\RE... 04/23/2009
Page 3 of 3
doing it the way we do it now (sheds and garages only) OR fairly complicated standards specific to the varying
types of accessory structures that is more in depth.
Options 1 and 2 do a good job of fitting everything into a box as long as we have clear definitions. But, I could
see a lot of people trying to get around the definition and having lots of interpretations. And its more complex.
Option 3 is a more simple approach and would be easier to understand and administer. But, it provides limited
flexibility for anything but a garage - in other words if someone wanted a greenhouse, a work studio, etc. they
would be pretty limited in size. I could see the same issue we have now repeating itself - someone wants more
square footage so they put a garage door on it even though its not functioning as a garage.
at do people think about these three. options and are there any other suggestions for dealing with
these?
Jeff [dirt
Planner 11
7500 W. 29th Avenue
WheatRidee. Colorado 90033
Office Phone: 303-235-2949
Fax: 303-234-29:17 -
www.cl.wheatnd e.cqus
0
CONFIDENTIALITY NOTICE: This e-mail contains business-confidential information. It is intended only for the use of the individual or entity named
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file://U:\Code Amendments\Drafting\Short Term\Residential Development Standards\RE... 04/23/2009
Page 1 of 1
Jeff Hirt
From:
Jeff Hirt
Sent:
Monday, March 23, 2009 11:29 AM
To:
Kenneth Johnstone; Meredith Reckert
Cc:
Adam Tietz
Subject: Residential Development Standards Outreach, Next Steps
Ken/Mere:
To follow up from our Planning Commission meeting regarding the zoning code amendments (residential
development standards specifically) and public outreach - they were in favor of staff's recommended approach.
I'm sending a similar email to this one to Heather also, but this one is for the planners. Basically, here is the
approach that I was thinking. Its not as quick as I would like, but given the timing of the Connections article it
seems appropriate. Let me know if you have any questions/concerns or any additional ideas.
1. Draft article for April/May/June Connections (deadline 4/27) - goes out week of 5/25 or 6/1
2. Post project/proposed dates (as they get finalized) on website and directly notify attendees of open houses
for zoning code amendments project.
3. Schedule Planning Commission public hearing on ordinance for 5/7. We could schedule it for 4/16 to
keep the momentum, but this would leave a pretty big lag time between PC and CC if we are waiting on
feedback from the Connections article to proceed with City Council.
4. Schedule for CC first reading 6/8, with second reading 6/22. Again, we could move a little quicker, but
the consensus seems to be to wait for the results from the Connections and this goes out as late as the
week of 6/1. We could push the first reading to 6/22 also given the Connections timing.
5. If there is significant comment received with the Connections article, possibly postpone the CC meetings
and initiate more outreach.
Also, as we move forward with the parking regulations and the mixed use district we may want to try to get some
information on these projects in the April/May/June Connections issue. I'm going to work on getting meetings and
timelines scheduled for both of these to keep them moving forward.
Let me know if you have any questions/concerns.
Jeff' 11 il-t
Planner tI
7500 W. 29th Avenue
Wheat Ridge, Colorado 80033
Office Phone: 303-235-2849
Fax: +03-234-2857
vvwNr ci.kvheitrdrye cu.ug.
❑x
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 strange 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 Itom your computer, and any network to which your computer is connected l'hank you.
03/23/2009
There was no one to address the Commission at this time.
STUDY SESSION
A. Follow-up on Development Standards for Residential Zones
Jeff Hirt reviewed the staff report which was a follow-up from the study session
held on March 5, 2009 regarding residential development standards. The report
contained staff recommendations resulting from study session feedback.
Public Outreach for Residential Standards - Staff recommended scheduling a
Planning Commission public hearing in late April or early May. Those who
signed up for the 2008 open houses for zoning code amendments would be
directly notified in addition to a newspaper notice. An article would be
prepared for the Wheat Ridge Connections that would outline the proposed
changes and any future public hearings on the ordinance. The Connections
would be mailed out the week of May 25 or June 1. Based on feedback from
that publication, staff would proceed accordingly with either a first reading
before City Council or additional public outreach. Information would
continue to be provided on the city website during the entire process.
Commissioner REINHART agreed with staff s recommendation, commenting
that he believed the public hearing process mandated by ordinance is
adequate.
Commissioner TIMMS stated that he would prefer to have the information
appear in the Connections publication prior to a Planning Commission hearing
on the ordinance.
Commissioner CHILVERS commented that he would like to see the process
move quickly.
All of the information is presently on the website under the Community
Development Department. Suggestions were made that the information be
moved from the Community Development section of the website to the City's
front page; the website presentation could include some of the photographs
that were presented during the study session; and perhaps an article could be
written in the mayor's newsletter concerning the proposed ordinance.
There was a consensus (5-1 with Commissioner TIMMS opposed) to support
staff s recommendations for public outreach.
• Classifying Accessory Structures - Based on feedback from the study session,
staff recommended grouping accessory structures into two categories, major
and minor, with major structures having the same standards as detached
garages and minor structures having the same standards as sheds.
Planning Commission Minutes 2 March 19, 2009
There was discussion as to whether the structures should be further defined by
use. Commissioner HOLLENDER commented that too much definition
would make the process cumbersome, and it would probably be best to base
the definitions upon size and let building codes regulate the use.
There was consensus (6-0) to support staff's recommendations to regulate
major/minor accessory buildings based on size and not use.
• Accessory structure behind front fagade of principal structure.
Based on discussion at the March 5 study session, staff made the following
recommendations: For front and side setbacks from the street on corner lots,
detached garages would be the same as front/street setback for principal
structure. If there is an existing setback encroachment, the detached garage
must be behind the street-facing fagade of the principal building but not less
than 18'. For the R-IC district which has typically smaller lots, the setback
would be 18' and accessory structures must be behind the street-facing fagade
of the principal structure where there are encroachments. For front and side
setbacks from the street for corner lots, all other accessory structures would be
the same as front/street setbacks for principal structures. If there is an existing
setback encroachment, the accessory structure must behind the street-facing
fagade of the principal. building. For front setbacks in the R-1 C district,
accessory structures must be behind the street-facing fagade of the principal
structure regardless.
Commissioner REINHART discussed setbacks for garages and suggested that
a garage could be close enough to the street that there would be no room for a
car to park in front of the structure or the garage should be set back far enough
to accommodate a parked vehicle.
There was consensus to support staffs recommendations with language
suggested by Commissioner REINHART that would allow some flexibility
with driveway depths.
B. Discussion of Off-Street Parking Requirements:
Jeff Hirt presented this matter. Staff is in the process of drafting revised parking
regulations to provide more flexibility for the city's many infill lots that may not
meet current standards. Two options for a shared parking formula are being
considered and outlined in the staff report.
Commissioner MATTHEWS suggested that shared parking should be on the same
side of the street.
Planning Commission Minutes 3 March 19, 2009
3.19.09 PC Study Session Notes
Public outreach & residential development standards
• Consensus (except for Timms) to move forward with recommended approach. Timms
wanted article first then PC hearing
• Need to make it more visible on the website with status
• Use Mayor's newsletter as forum before first PC public hearing
• What about an article in the transcript? No... b/c they may not communicate what we are
doing accurately
• Schedule PC public hearing (w/ mailings to attendees of open house, on front page of
website, and mayor's newsletter?), then write connections article with any dates.
Accessory buildings - maior vs. minor
• All ok with approach
• Agreement that we should go by size and not use
Accessory building setbacks
• All ok with staff approach, but adding in language that garages may be closer where
there are encroachments, but either 5' or over 18' so there are not vehicles hanging on to
ROW issues
Parkin
• Henry asked if we were looking at reducing the ratios for the uses - we looked at it but
we're generally consistent with surrounding jurisdictions
• Dick does not feel that shared parking should include lots where patrons have to cross
streets to get to the business
• Henry unclear about why we should allow increased parking with increased landscaping
- the two are not related
• All agreed that second approach for shared parking better, even though its slightly more
complicated
s~AI
City of
Wheatdge
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Memorandum
TO: Planning Commission
It 0 rAtc
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~~cl<- rl~wtdwt- 4e
THROUGH: Ken Johnstone, Community Development Director
FROM: Jeff Hirt, Planner II
DATE: March 13, 2009 (for March 19 study session)
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SUBJECT: Residential Development Standards, Parking, and Public Outreach
The purpose of this memo is to follow up from the study session held on March 5, 2009
regarding residential development standards and to provide general information on staff's
recommendations for revised parking regulations. More specifically, this memo discusses staff's
recommended approach for public outreach, revised residential development standards based on
the study session feedback, and parking revisions proposed.
Throughout this document where Planning Commission policy direction is requested from staff it
is noted.
Public Outreach for Residential Development Standards
Planning Commission and the Board of Adjustment had mixed opinions as to the preferred
approach for public outreach on this item. There were some suggestions of in depth outreach
with multiple open houses and public meetings, while some felt the typical public hearings for
the ordinances would be sufficient. Based on this, staff recommends the following as a "middle
ground" between these two approaches:
• Once the drafts are revised and ready, schedule the Planning Commission public hearing
on the ordinance with a target date in late April or early May. All those who signed up
for the August and September 2008 open houses for the zoning code amendments project
will be directly notified, as well as the notice in the newspaper.
• Prepare an article for the Wheat Ridge Connections (mailed to every household in the
city) April/May/June issue that outlines the proposed changes, and a scheduled city
council date(s) to be determined as we proceed. This issue is mailed out the week of
either May 25 or June 1. The deadline to get an article in this issue is April 27"'.
• Based on any feedback received from this publication, proceed with first readings before
City Council, or possibly have some type of public meeting to better inform the
community of the project if the interest is there.
• Throughout this process, information will continue to be provided on the city website
regarding this process.
Short Term Code Amendments
3119108
Recommended Changes for Residential Development Standards based on 3/5/09 Study
Session
There were a few outstanding issues that needed further clarification before the proposed
changes can be in ordinance form. A few of the changes are straight forward within the
individual zone districts, while others needed further discussion, particularly with regards to
accessory structures and front/street setbacks.
Classifying Accessory Structures
There was some interest expressed at the study session to better classify accessory structures to
account for all types - not only detached garages and sheds, but also greenhouses, barns,
gazebos, studios, etc. The issue came up that the current code only accounts for sheds and
garages, each with different standards for maximum size, height, and setbacks. Staff and
applicants often have a difficult time fitting other types of accessory structures into these
categories. Based on this, staff recommends the following:
• Grouping accessory structures into two categories - major and minor
• Major accessory structures would have the same standards for detached garages as
proposed at the March 5 study session (included in the memo for that meeting).
• Minor accessory structures would have the same standards for sheds as proposed at the
March 5 study session (included in the memo for that meeting).
• Staff would like some additional feedback from Planning Commission as to how to Direction
define a major accessory structure. Staff is recommending the following: Reouested
o First, based on size- if the structure is over 10' in height, and up to a maximum
square footage similar to a detached garage from the current code it would be
considered a major accessory structure.
• The question comes up as to whether we should further define them by use - that is if the
accessory structure is less than 10' in height or under the square footage for being
categorized as major but of a specific use. What if the structure is a work studio, barn,
greenhouse, etc. Do we want to classify these as major given that there would potentially
be human occupancy or other impacts? Or do we want to rely simply on size?
Accessory structures behind front fa a de of principle structure
This issue came up and there was much discussion as to the preferred approach. No consensus
was reached, but staff informed the Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment that they
would look into it further and propose changes. Based on the discussion at the meeting, there
were the following concerns about the approach of having a front/comer lot setback for an
accessory structure being simply behind the front fagade of the principal structure where it abuts
a public street or is in a front yard setback:
If the existing principal structure is set significantly back from the street, this requirement
may have limitations on placing an accessory structure on a lot. For example, if the
house is setback 50' from the street on a corner lot, the accessory structure must be 50'
back or more from the property line under the proposed standards. This may be
beneficial in preventing a shed or garage to be built in front of a house, but it may restrict
the ability to have an accessory structure.
If the principal structure is closer to the street, this may not leave adequate depth for a
driveway to have a parked car without it interfering with the public right-of-way for
Short Term Code Amendments
3/19/08
detached garages. 18' is a typical minimum driveway depth staff prefers to allow a
parked car, while there may be many structures closer to the street than this under the
proposed regulation where there are existing setback encroachments.
Staff Recommendations
In order to address some of the above issues and provide flexibility for property owners while
minimizing any new setback encroachments staff recommends the following.
Front and Side Setbacks from Street for Corner Lots, Detached Garages: t
o Same as fronUstreet setback for principal structure (ranging from 30' to 20' by
district),
OR
o If there is an existing setback encroachment, the accessory structure must be
behind the street-facing fagade of the principal building but not less than 18'.
o For the R-1C zone district:
• 18' regardless in the R-1C zone district for side setbacks from the street
(typically smaller lots) 2
• For front setbacks in the R-1C district, the accessory structure must be
must be behind the street facing fagade of the principal structure
regardless 3
• Front and Side Setbacks from Street for Corner Lots, All Other Accessory Structures:
o Same as front/street setback for principal structure (ranging from 30' to 20' by
district), or
o If there is an existing setback encroachment, the accessory structure must be
behind the street-facing fagade of the principal building 4
o For front setbacks in the R-1C district, the accessory structure must be must be
behind the street facing fagade of the principal structure regardless
t NOTE: The rationale behind these proposed changes is to provide flexibility for placement of detached garages
where there are existing setback encroachments from the principle structure into the side setback adjacent to a street
- and where there are not these encroachments the accessory structure is treated the same as the principle structure.
The "not less than 18"' provision is intended to address concerns that driveway depths may be too shallow along
streets to where any parked cars would be in conflict with the public right-of-way. Requiring a straight 18' setback
in the R-1C district would allow more flexibility with the smaller lots typical of this district.
2 QUESTION: Is Planning Commission in favor of allowing even more reduced setbacks in the R-1C district where
there are existing encroachments? If we allow less than 18', there is the potential for cars to overhang onto the Direction
right-of-way, but the lots are also typically only 50' wide, which leaves less room for usable backyard space the Reuuested
more setbacks are required.
s QUESTION: There could be a potential issue with this where properties in the R-1C district have substantial front
setbacks adjacent to alleys, which would prevent a property owner from being able to build a detached garages in
many of these situations. Does Planning Commission want to rely on the variance process if these situations come
up and stay with the philosophy of keeping new detached garages behind houses in R-1C, or should we provide the
same flexibility in R-1C as in other districts?
a NOTE: Staff recommends allowing further potential encroachment into setbacks where the existing principal
structure already encroaches for other non-detached garage accessory structures. The rationale behind this is that
only detached garages need a minimum driveway width to accommodate a vehicle, whereas other types of structures
do not have this issue. If the impact of the principal structure is already there, it is staff's opinion that a new
structure may build in line with the encroachment regardless as long as it is not a garage.
Short Term Code Amendments
3/19/08
District-Specific Revisions
In addition to the above comments that apply across multiple zone districts, the following
district-specific changes will be made to what was presented at the March 5 study session.
Residential One A (R-]A)
Staff will revise the side/rear setbacks for accessory structures to be 5' if the structure is < 10' in
height, and 10' if > 10' in height.
Residential One B (R-IB)
Allow a 5' side and rear setback for all accessory structures, whereas staff presented a 5' side
setback and 10' rear setback. This revision is the case in all residential zone districts except R-1
and R- IA.
Residential Three (R-3), Residential Three A (R-3A)
Standards between these two districts need to match with regards to setbacks.
Short Term Code Amendments
3/19/08
Proposed Parking Revisions
Staff has also begun drafting revised parking regulations (Section 26-501) as part of the short
term zoning code amendments. At the Planning Commission's July 17, 2008 study session, staff
outlined the recommended approach that included the following, with the general intent of
providing more flexibility for the city's many infill lots that may not meet current standards.
• Generally, more flexibility for challenging parking situations, particularly for infill lots
• Allowances for parking reductions
• Improved shared parking provisions
• Mandatory and incentivized bicycle parking
• Improved organization and user-friendliness
Before refining this draft and possibly bringing it forward to Planning Commission in ordinance
form, staff would like to inform the commission in more detail of some the recommendations
and receive feedback on preferred next steps. Additionally, if any members of the commission
have ideas for inclusion in the parking standards staff would certainly like to hear them.
Several of the more significant policy changes proposed with this ordinance are outlined below.
Shared Parkine
There are some general shared parking provisions in the current code (Sec. 26-501.C.4), but staff
is recommending more detailed standards. More specifically:
• The current code simply states that shared parking may be utilized within 300 feet of the
building to meet the required number of parking spaces for a use.
• Staff is recommending specifying a calculation for shared parking based on a table or
formula - both for property(s) under common ownership with mixed uses and across
properties with different ownership.
• This formula would be similar to what is used in the Architectural and Site Design
Manual (page 23), that may include some modifications.
• The intent of using this formula is to account for different land uses that may have
different parking demand characteristics at different times (e.g., parking demand for a
bank versus a movie theater at different times). Staff has presented two options below.
• Option 1 is a more straight forward approach with fewer land use categories.
• Option 2 is a more complicated calculation, but it does account for more land uses and
specific times of day with different parking characteristics. Direction
• Examples of the two approaches staff is evaluating is provided below in a hypothetical Reouested
scenario. Staff would like to receive some feedback as to the preferred approach of these
two options.
Short Term Code Amendments
3119108
PROPOSED SHARED PARKING REGULATIONS, OPTION 1
Shared Parking Standards
a. Calculation [option 1] 5
The number of shared parking spaces for two or more distinguishable land uses may
be determined by using the following procedure:
i. Step 1: Calculate the number of parking spaces required for each individual land
use as set forth in Table (Schedule of Off Street Parking)
ii. Step 2: Divide the total number of required parking spaces by the appropriate
factor in the shared parking matrix (Table below).
Lan d Use
Table
Residential
- : Shared Parking
Lodging
Matrix
Office
Retail
Residential <
1
1.1
1.4
1.2
Lodging-
1.1
1
1.7
1.3
Office
1.4
1.7
1
1.2
Retail
1.2
1.3
1.2
1
Example 1 of S
hared Parking Calculation,
Option
Use "
Current Shared Packing
Proposed Shared Parking
(Option 1)
Retail
50 spaces required
50 spaces required
(1 space/200
square feet)
Restaurant
40 spaces required
40 spaces required
(1 space/75
square feet)
Office (Second
17 spaces required
17 spaces required
floor, 1
space/300
square feet)
Total
107 spaces required
(107 divided by shared factor of
Required
1.2, with restaurant categorized
as retail) = 89 spaces required
Example 2 of S
hared Parking Calculation,
Option
Use
I Current Shared Parking
Proposed Shared Parking
(Option 1)
Retail
50 spaces required
50 spaces required
(1 space/200
square feet)
Residential (2
22 spaces required
22 spaces required
spaces/2
bedroom unit)
'NOTE: The following is taken from page 23 of the Architectural and Site Design Manual, slightly reorganized for
clarity.
6
Short Term Code Amendments
3/19/08
Example 2 i S
hared Parking Calculation, Option 1
Use
Current Shared Parking
Proposed Shared Parking
(Option 1)
Restaurant
67 spaces required
50 spaces required
(1 space/75
square feet)
Office (Second
33 spaces required
50 spaces required
floor, 1
space/300
square feet)
Total
172 spaces required
(172 divided by shared factor of
Required
1.2, with restaurant categorized
as retail) =143 spaces
required
Under example 2 above with multiple uses, the shared parking factor producing the highest
number is used; therefore the Residential/Retail category is used with a shared parking factor of
1.2.
Short Term Code Amendments
3/19/08
PROPOSED SHARED PARKING REGULATIONS, OPTION 2
b. Calculation [option 2] 6
The number of shared parking spaces for two or more distinguishable land uses shall
be determined by using the following procedure:
i. Step 1: Calculate the number of parking spaces required for each individual land
use as set forth in Table (Schedule of Off Street Parking)
ii. Step 2: Multiply the required number of parking spaces from Step 1 by the
percentages in each of the six time periods in Table below.
iii. Step 3: For each time period, add the number of spaces required for all applicable
land uses to obtain a total for each of the six time periods.
iv. Step 4: Select the time period with the highest total parking requirement and use
that the total as the shared parking requirement.
TABLE : Shared Parking
Uses
Matrix
M-F
Sam 5pm
M-F
6pm-
12am
M-F
12am-
Gam
Sat. & Sun.
Sam-Spm;`
Sat. & Sun.
6pm•12am
Sat. & Sun.
12am-ham
Residential "
60%
100%
100%
80%
100%
100%
Office/ Warehouse
/Industrial
100%
20%
5%
5%
5%
5%
Commercial
90%
80%
5%
100%
70%
5%
Hotel
70%
100%
100%
70%
100%
100%
Restaurant
70%
100%
10%
1
70%
100%
20%
Movie Theater
40%
80%
10%
80%
100%
10%
Entertainment
40%
100%
10%
80%
100%
50%
Conference/Convention
100%
100%
5%
100%
100%
5%
Institutional (non-church)
100%
20%
5%
10%
10%
5%
Institutional (church)
10%
5%
5%
100%
50%
5%
Example I of S
Calculation,
hared Parkin.- Option 2
Use
Current Shared Parking
Proposed Shared Parking
(Option 2)
Retail
50 spaces required
50 spaces required
(1 space/200
square feet)
Restaurant
40 spaces required
40 spaces required
(1 space/75
square feet)
Office (Second
17 spaces required
17 spaces required
floor, 1
s ace/300
6 NOTE: The following is another option for shared parking that takes into account times of day in calculating
parking demand.
Short Term Code Amendments
3119108
Example I of S
hared Parking Option
Use
Current Shared Parking Proposed Shared Parking
(Option 2)
square feet)
Total
107 spaces required 90 spaces required
Required
(calculation done in table below)
Under option 2, the individual land uses are calculated based on specific times of day, and the
timeframe with the most parking demand is used as the standard. The 8am - 5pm timeframe has
the most demand at 90 spaces (see below), therefore this is the standard.
Short Term Code Amendments
3/19/08
Example 2 of S
hared Parking Calculation, Option 2
Use
I Current Shared Parking
Proposed Shared Parking
(Option 2)
Retail
50 spaces required
50 spaces required
(1 space/200
square feet)
Residential (2
22 spaces required
22 spaces required
spaces/2
bedroom unit)
Restaurant
67 spaces required
67 spaces required
(1 space/75
square feet)
Office (Second
33 spaces required
33 spaces required
floor, 1
space/300
square feet)
Total
172 spaces required
138 spaces required
Required
(calculation done in table
below)
Under option 2, the individual land uses are calculated based on specific times of day, and the
timeframe with the most parking demand is used as the standard. The 8am - 5pm timeframe has
the most demand at 138 spaces, therefore this is the standard.
Example 2 • Option
Uses M-F M-F
M-F
Sat. & Sun.
Sat. & Sun.
Sat. & Sun.
Sam-5pm 6pm-
12am-
s8am-Spm'
6pm-12am
`12am Gam
12am
Gam
Residential
22
22
18
22
22
Office/ Warehouse' 7
2
2
2
2
/Industrial
Commercial 40
jjL
3
50
35
3
Restaurant 67
7
47
67
13
TOTAL' 136
34
117
126
40
10
Short Term Code Amendments
3/19/08
Parking Reductions
Staff is also recommending some "by right" parking reductions in some situations. Some
options being considered include:
• Vehicular parking reductions proportionately for bicycle parking provided
• Reduction allowances in proximity to transit
• Reductions with proportionate increases in landscaping
Bicycle Parking
Staff is recommending bicycle parking standards as set forth below. Bicycle parking is a
relatively low cost requirement that many surrounding jurisdictions mandate. Staff will also
evaluate best practices on any allowances for scooter and motorcycle parking.
Mandatory bicycle parking near existing or proposed bicycle facilities per the city's
Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan, in proximity to transit, and for most nonresidential
uses (with some exemptions)
Incentives for providing bicycle parking where not mandatory (reduced vehicular parking
allowances)
Stacking Requirements s
Staff is recommending more detailed vehicle stacking requirements for drive-thru land uses,
whereas the current code gives little guidance for these situations. Currently, there is a
requirement for 6 stacking spaces per window for a drive-thru, regardless of the type of drive
through (restaurant, bank, liquor store). Staff is proposing different stacking requirements by
land use.
Next Steps
Residential Development Standards
Staff will schedule the necessary meetings based on feedback received from the Planning
Commission at this study session. This will either come in the form of a public meeting, or the
public hearing on the proposed ordinance as outlined on page 1 above.
Parking
Staff will continue drafting the revised parking section, and include any recommendations and
feedback received from the Planning Commission at this study session. This section contains a
lot of substantive and policy changes, so it will take more time to refine the draft before it is
ready for a public hearing. Also, staff would like to get some feedback as to any public outreach
NOTE: One typical inverted U type bicycle parking space is $75-$100 according to the Wisconsin Bicycling
Federation.
e NOTE: A stacking space is an area for motor vehicles to line up in while waiting to go through a drive-through
facility, or within a designed drop-off or pick-up zone.
11
Short Term Code Amendments
3/19/08
for revised parking standards. Generally, the proposed standards are geared more towards
flexibility rather than mandating additional parking standards. With this, it would appear
opposition/concern would be minimal but its difficult to determine. Some degree of public
outreach may also inform the business community that these tools are now available with regards
to parking, whereas this has presented an obstacle for many nonresidential properties in the past.
Short Term Zoning Code Amendments Status
The following lists the short term zoning code amendments that have been discussed with City
Council and Planning Commission as well as the current status of each.
Section
1. Floodplain administrator duties
S
•
tatus
New ordinance approved by City Council on
2/23/09
2. Zoning district boundary discrepancies
•
New ordinance approved by City Council on
2/23/09
3. Planned development amendments
•
New ordinance approved by City Council on
3/9/09
4. City-initiated zone changes
•
New ordinance approved by City Council on
3/9/09
5. Residential density in planned
•
Recommended for approval by Planning
developments
Commission on 2/5/09
•
First reading held on 3/9/09 before City
Council
•
Scheduled for second reading on 4/13/09
before City Council
6. Residential development standards
•
Initially focused on front setbacks, now
taking comprehensive approach to all
residential development standards
•
Study session (Planning Commission &
Board of Adjustment) held on 3/5/09
7. Parking regulations
•
Staff has completed working draft
•
Revisions needed, review by city attorney
needed
•
Need direction from Planning Commission
as to any public outreach and preferred next
steps
8. New mixed use zone district
•
Staff has begun preliminary research and
analysis
9. Extended stay lodging
•
Discussed at study sessions with the
conclusion that outreach to the hotel/motel
community is the referred approach
10. Assembly of R-3 land for development
No drafts yet
11. Residential group homes
No drafts et
9 NOTE: This proposed amendment was originally not on this short term list, but staff has received direction to
move forward with this amendment.
12
4. APPROVE THE ORDER OF THE AGENDA
It was moved by Commissioner DWYER and seconded by Commissioner
CHILVERS to approve the order of the agenda. The motion passed 8-0.
5. APPROVAL OF MINUTES - February 19, 2009
It was moved by Commissioner TIMMS and seconded by Commissioner
CHILVERS to approve the minutes of February 19, 2009 as presented. The
motion passed 5-0 with Commissioners REINHART, DIETRICK and
HOLLENDER abstaining.
6. PUBLIC FORUM (This is the time for any person to speak on any subject not
appearing on the agenda.)
There was no one to address the Commission at this time.
7. STUDY SESSION WITH BOARD OF ADJUSTMENT
A. Development Standards for Residential Zones
At Commission's direction, staff made recommendations after evaluating
residential development standards. Residential development standards are one
item on the list of short-term zoning code amendments. Jeff Hirt presented staff s
recommendations as contained in the staff report.
There was discussion about reducing side yard setbacks in the R-1 zone district,
however the majority opinion was to leave the R-1 standards as they are.
There was consensus that in the R-lA district, there should be no distinction
between garages and sheds for setback standards, and a five-foot side setback if
the building is ten feet or less in height. Staff will take into consideration
comments received and re-evaluate the suggested requirement that detached
garages and storage sheds must be located behind the front facade of the principal
structure.
Comments were made that the recommended changes would allow larger
structures to be built in the R-1 C district. Staff will take another look at the
recommendations.
There was consensus to leave the standards as presented in the R-2 district. The
possibility of separate ownership for duplexes was discussed. Staff will look into
the factors involved. There was consensus that as building height for duplexes
increases, setbacks should also increase.
There was consensus to leave R-2A recommendations as presented.
Planning Commission Minutes 2 March 5, 2009
There was consensus that height to setback requirements should be consistent
between the R-3 and R-3A districts. An issue to be reviewed at some time in the
future is whether or not R-3 lots could be combined for multi-family
development.
The possible use of bulk plane regulations was discussed. There was comment
that this is something that might be considered with larger developments.
Building heights for principal and accessory structures were discussed. No
changes were agreed to.
There was discussion about whether or not to combine accessory structures as one
use whether they be garages, sheds, gazebo's, etc. Staff will consider comments
and evaluate this possibility further.
Processes for public comment and involvement concerning proposed zoning code
changes were discussed. Staff will consider comments and bring back a plan for
L public outreach.
8. OTHER ITEMS
A. Joint Study Session with City Council - April 6, 2009
9. ADJOURNMENT
It was moved by Commissioner CHILVERS and seconded by Commissioner
DWYER to adjourn the meeting at 10:21 p.m.
Anne Brinkman, Chair Ann Lazzeri, Secretary
Planning Commission Minutes 3 March 5, 2009
March 5, 2009 Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment Study Session
Residential development standards
General comments
• The increase in costs for applying for variances has a significant factor in
affecting the number of variances - this wasn't accounted for in the research in
the memo presented to them.
• Many felt that there should be design standards in place for SF/duplexes. Some
felt that we should restrict garage dominant design - but the conclusion was at
this time this may be overly restrictive for the market. What about when the
market starts to turn towards scrape offs? We should be ready for this when it
happens so our residential neighborhoods don't get screwed up.
• Not all agreed on the recommendation of having accessory buildings behind the
front facade of the principle structure for front/street setbacks. All agree that
corner lots present challenges that need special provisions - but we need to take a
closer look at this standard. What about driveway length and cars hanging onto
the right-of-way? We could say behind the facade, but not less than X. If we go
with the "behind front facade" approach, we need to better specify what the front
facade is for corner lots where it is more the side facade than the front.
• The group was interesting in possibly grouping all accessory structures into one
category and regulating as such. At least looking into better addressing other
types of accessory structures such as greenhouses, studios, barns, etc. Now, to get
more square footage you have to call it a garage - which means put a garage door
on it. Maybe we say if over X square feet we call it a garage, or have some
method of differentiating to better accommodate the different types.
• Public outreach - mixed. Some felt the normal process would work - no open
houses, etc. Maybe a newsletter article and info on the website - then the normal
public hearings as a venue to discuss. Others (Janet Bell mostly) felt a series of
open houses and workshops would be beneficial. We need to find a common
ground between these two approaches. Its seems unlikely that much interest
would be generated from these meetings and it may not be useful to further delay
this process. The conclusion was, maybe do one meeting to gauge the response
and use that to move forward. If no interest - move forward with ordinances. If a
lot, maybe have follow up meetings.
• What about allowances for solar panels on buildings? Do we allow them to
extend above the maximum height? What about if they are an integral part of the
structure? Can we provide some incentives to allow this?
• We need to look at revising the policy to better encourage duplex splits as a
means to encourage home ownership. Now, it isn't clearly addressed as far as
platting, etc. Look at other cities and what they do to get around the platting,
setbacks, utilities, etc. issues.
• All agreed to keep the setbacks based on building height for duplex and
multifamily.
• Most agreed bulk plane may be beneficial - but now is probably not the right time
to implement such a thing - complicated to administer, for an applicant to show
compliance with, etc.
R-1
• What about funky shaped lots? Is there a way to provide relief for irregular
shaped lots that have minimal room with 15' & 30 setbacks?
• Should we be taking into account topography in providing any relief as well?
• Initially the group was in support of reduced setbacks (which staff did not
recommend), then they agreed that we should leave the R-1 district alone - no
changes to this district at this time was the consensus.
)v (G,
R-IA
• Can we allow more encroachment for detached garages if they are perpendicular
to the street/front lot line?
• For detached garages (side/rear setbacks) - lets have it 5' if < 10' in height, rather
than the 8' height provision. Across the board? Not necessarily... see notes.
R-1B
• All agree with staff recommendations - with the exception of.
• Allow a 5' rear setback for detached garages consistent with the recommended
side setback
R-2
• Need to match 5' per story for side and rear setbacks for duplexes?
R-3/R-3A
Need consistency with side setbacks between these two - why are they different?
They should be the same. Prc k s eV, 3 +qod.
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4 City of
WheatRAc
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Memorandum
TO: Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment
THROUGH: Ken Johnstone, Community Development Director
Meredith Reckert, Senior Planner
FROM: Jeff Hirt, Planner
DATE: February 26, 2009
SUBJECT: March 5 Residential Development Standards Study Session
One of the proposed short term zoning code amendments was the revisions to front setbacks in
residential zone districts. At the December 8, 2008 Planning Commission public hearing, a
consensus was reached that all residential development standards - not just front setbacks -
should be evaluated and staff should propose recommendations for changes. Staff has scheduled
this study session to evaluate the issue and obtain feedback to move forward with these changes.
Additionally, staff suggested that it would be beneficial for the Board of Adjustment to attend
this study session, as the majority of the cases they hear deal with residential development
standards. Planning Commission concurred.
The purpose of this memo is to provide the Planning Commission and Board of Adjustment with
background on the issue and present recommendations to discuss as part of this study session.
Based on the outcome of this meeting, staff will be bringing forward proposed ordinances for
Planning Commission's review. The structure of this memo is as follows:
1. Executive Summary
2. Background/History - 2003 Residential Development Standards Amendments
3. Related Variance Case History
4. Comparable Jurisdiction Summary
5. Staff Recommendations
Executive Summary
Residential development standards are one of the most significant factors in shaping the built
environment in Wheat Ridge's residential neighborhoods. The residential development
standards being evaluated as part of this zoning code amendment include the following for both
principle and accessory buildings:
• Maximum Height
• Maximum Building Coverage
• Minimum Front Yard Setback
• Minimum Side Yard Setback
• Minimum Rear Yard Setback
The city's residential straight zone districts are as follows, with development standards set forth
in Sections 26-205 through 26-212 of the Code of Laws:
1. Residential-One District (R-1)
2. Residential-One A District (R-lA)
3. Residential-One B District (R-1B)
4. Residential-One C District (R-IC)
5. Residential-Two District (R-2)
6. Residential-Two A District (R-2A)
7. Residential-Three District (R-3)
8. Residential-Three A District (R-3A)
Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy
The adopted Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy clearly outlines the need to update the zoning
code to encourage improvements to existing residential properties to attract "strong" households.
There are a number of obstacles in the current zoning code related to residential development
standards to encourage desirable residential development and redevelopment in the current code:
Wheat Ridge has, on average, significantly smaller homes than surrounding communities
and the county as a whole.' With this, there is a demand for expansions to existing
homes, which often includes additions and detached garages. For instance, the majority
of the homes built in Wheat Ridge were not
originally built with two car garages, a
commonly demanded item in the current
residential market.
The current residential development standards,
specifically setback requirements, often times
are very restrictive in allowing any type of
additions or expansions. In many cases the
existing setback requirements do not reflect the
existing conditions, particularly in residential
neighborhoods east of Wadsworth. In other
words, houses, garages, and sheds very often
See page 20 of the Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy (NRS).
Typical Wheat Ridge residential
structure
encroach into required setbacks under current regulations. '
• A major component of the NRS is also encouraging more pedestrian-friendly
neighborhoods .2 Every residential zone district has required large front yard setbacks,
higher on average than any surrounding jurisdiction in fact (see Attachment 2 of this
memo). While it is perhaps appropriate to keep these larger front setbacks in some of the
city's large lot residential zone districts, it may be beneficial to include some reductions
in others.
Summary of Recommendations
In general, staff has recommended reduced front yard setbacks in all residential zone districts
except for the R-1 district, which represents the city's large lot residential zone district.
Additionally, staff has recommended reduced side and rear yard setbacks in some examples.
These include corner lots (where there are essentially two 30' front yard setbacks), and setbacks
for detached garages and sheds.
More detail on the district-by-district recommendations is provided in the Recommendations
section of this memo.
Background
2003 Zonine Code Amendments
Before presenting recommendations and analyzing existing conditions, it is important to
summarize the similar zoning code amendment process undertaken in 2003. Initially, this
specific issue was discussed as part of the comprehensive zoning code rewrite in 2001. As new
issues emerged, subsequent meetings and research resulted in approval of the adopted ordinance
taking place in 2003.
The following general revisions were made at that time:
• Reduced the allowable building height for accessory structures in all residential zone
districts. The general intent was to limit the bulk and mass of the structures, and there
were also concerns about living space above the structures.
• Increased side and rear setbacks for accessory structures based on building height.
• Increased side and rear setbacks for principal structures in some districts - some based on
height (per story) and some an outright increase.
• Establish a maximum size of 120 square feet for metal accessory buildings in all
residential zone districts.
• Revise the definition of an accessory building.
2 Noted throughout the document; but see page 24 of the Neighborhood Revitalization Strategy (NRS) for a specific
example as part of the recommendations from this document.
3
The following specific district-by-district revisions were made in 2003 related to residential
development standards:
U' l
Zone District
Type of Structure
Building Height
Building Setbacks
Residential One (R-1).
Principle structures
Detached garages
15'29'
Storage sheds
10' 29'
Residential One A (R-IA)
Principle structures
Side: 10'
Detached garages
15' 201
Side/rear: 5' if < 8' height, 10' if
> 8' height 5.1
Storage sheds
10' 241
Side/rear: 5' if < 8' height, 10' if
> 8' height
Residential One B (R-113)
Principle structures
Detached garages
15' 24
Side/rear: 5' if < 8' height, 10' if
> 8' height
Storage sheds
10' 213'
Side/rear: 5' if < 8' height, 10' if
> 8' height 5L
Residential One C (R-IC)
Principle structures
Rear: 5' d-W
Detached garages
15' 29'
Side/rear: 5' if < 8' height, 10' if
> 8' height 3'
Storage sheds
10' 29'
Side/rear: 5' if < 8' height, 10' if
> 8' height
Residential Two (R-2)
Principle structures
Detached garages
15' 2,01
Side/rear: 5' if < 8' height, 10' if
> 8' height 5L
Storage sheds
10' 20L
Side/rear: 5' if < 8' height, 10' if
> 8' height 51
Residential Two A (R-2A).. -
Principle structures
Side: 5' per story
5) L
0' for one to
Multifamily, Rear: 1
two story buildings; 15' for
three story buildings 1&
Detached garages
15' 2&
Side/rear: 5' if < 8' height, 10' if
> 10' height 3'
Storage sheds
10' 24
Side/rear: 5' if < 8' height, 10' if
> 8' height 3'
Residential Three (R-3)
Principle structures
Side: 5' per story 51
Multifamily, Rear: 15' iOL
Detached garages
15' 29'
Side/rear: 5' if < 8' height, 10' if
> 8' height
Storage sheds
10' 24L
Side/rear: 5' if < 8' height, 10' if
> 8' height
Residential Three A (R-3A)
Principle structures
Side: 5' per story 3-
Multifamily, Rear: 15'44L
Detached garages
15' 2&
Side/rear: 5' if < 8' height, 10' if
> 8' height
Storage sheds
10' 29~
Side/rear: 5' if < 8' height, 10' if
> 8' height -51
4
The following revisions were made as part of the same process to other sections of the code:
Sec. 26-611 "Building Setbacks"
This section dealing with allowed encroachments into setbacks was revised to prohibit
encroachments in nonresidential zone districts. Previously, structures such as porches, patios,
chimneys, etc. were allowed some limited encroachments into setbacks in all zone districts.
Section 26-123 "Definitions"
The definition of accessory building was revised to list specific types of accessory structures
such as storage sheds, detached garages, membrane structures, gazebos, etc.
Section 26-204 "Zone District Use Schedule"
This section was revised to clarify that accessory buildings are not allowed on vacant lots that do
not have primary or main buildings.
Related Variance Case History
Staff conducted anecdotal variance case history research going back to 2000 as it relates to
residential development standards. Note that there were some changes to the residential
development standards in 2003 (as discussed above), specifically related to side and rear
setbacks for accessory buildings. Attachment 1 summarizes in more detail all of the variance
requests from 2000 - 2008. Some conclusions are listed below, as well as in tables and graphs.
2000- 2008
• 127 total variance requests from applicable residential development standards in R-series
districts
• 72% of all requests were approved
• 36 were for side yard setbacks for accessory structures (garages, sheds) (28% of total)
o The average side yard setback request was 5.86 feet into the required setback
o The R-2 district had the most of these types of requests at 42%, with the R-1
district having 31%.
• 21 were for front yard setbacks for principle structures (17% of total)
o The average front yard request was 8.13 feet into the required setback
o The R-2 district had the most of these types of requests at 38%, with the R-1C
district having 19%
• 18 were for rear yard setbacks for accessory structures (14% of total)
o The average rear yard request was 5.16 feet into the required setback
o The R-2 district had the most of these types of requests at 38%, with the R-1C
district having 19%
2000 - November 2003 (prior to approval of new residential development standards)
• 52 total variance requests from applicable residential development standards in R-series
districts
• 62% of all requests were approved
• 10 were for side yard setbacks for accessory structures (garages, sheds) (19% of total)
o The average side yard setback request was 5.5 feet into the required setback
o The R-1 district had the most of these types of requests at 40%
• 11 were for side yard setbacks for principle structures (21% of total)
o The average side yard setback request was 7.8 feet into the required setback
5
o The R-1 district had the most of these types of requests at 36%
• 11 were for front yard setbacks for principle structures (21% of total)
o The average front yard setback request was 8.6 feet into the required setback
o The R-2 district had the most of these types of requests at 45%
November 2003 - 2008 (following approval of new residential development standards)
• 77 total variance requests from residential development standards (61% of total from
2000-2008)
77% of all requests were approved
24 were for side yard setbacks for accessory structures (garages, sheds) (31% of total)
o The average side yard setback request was 6.5 feet
o The R-2 district had the most of these types of requests at 50%, with the R-1
district having 29%.
13 were for rear yard setbacks for accessory structures (17% of total)
o The average rear yard request was 5.3 feet
o The R-2 district had the most of these types of requests at 38%, with the R-1
district having 31%
The following tables provide some general illustrations of trends in variance requests related to
residential development standards:
Number of Setback Variance Requests by Year
(from applicable development standards - building setbacks, lot
size, and lot coverage)
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Comparable Jurisdiction Summary
Eight area jurisdictions were analyzed with regards to the residential development standards
under consideration for this zoning code amendment. Attachment 2 includes a table with more
detail on this research. In general, the conclusions are as follows:
Wheat Ridge...
• Has the highest front setbacks on average
• Has lesser rear setbacks for principle structures on average
• Has higher side and rear setbacks for detached garages on average - most do not base
the setback on height
• Generally is more restrictive for corner lot setbacks. Five of the eight have reduced side
and rear yard setbacks for corner lots for principle structures on average
• Is consistent with regards to side setbacks for principle structures on average
• Is consistent with front setbacks for accessory structures in that they are the same as the
principle structure, but some jurisdictions simply require that they be behind the principle
structure
• Is consistent with accessory buildings of lesser height for side and rear setbacks on
average
• Is consistent with regards to building heights for principle structures on average
• Is consistent with regards to building heights for accessory structures on average
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City of
dge
Wheat
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
Miscellaneous Notes
Vertical Additions, or "Pop Tops" with Nonconforming Setbacks
Where there are existing nonconforming structures that encroach into required setbacks, property
owners are allowed to "build in line" with the existing encroachment - meaning that they cannot
increase the degree of the encroachment. The question of whether or not this applies to vertical
additions, or "pop tops" has arisen, particularly with regards to setback requirements based on
building heights. It has been department policy in the past to allow vertical additions in line with
existing encroachments, as long as the setback is not based on building height and the setback
would become nonconforming.
Maximum Height for Accessory Structures
Much discussion took place in 2003 to arrive at the current height limitations for accessory
structures, particularly detached garages. The arrival at 15' had an intent of limiting the
allowance for additional dwelling units or living space to be constructed above detached garages
in the future.
Number of Accessory Structures
While it is not specified in the code, the department's policy regarding the number of accessory
structures on a property has been to allow as many as a property owner would desire, as long as
the square footage stays under the maximum allowed square footage. For instance, if the
maximum allowable square footage for storage sheds is 200 square feet, then one could have two
100 square foot storage sheds.
Nonconformities as a Result of Any Code Amendments
The amendments proposed generally include less restrictive setback requirements, therefore if
enacted they will actually substantially decrease the number of nonconforming properties in the
city.
Policy Questions
In addition to the policy recommendations contained in the district-specific standards contained
in this memo, there are the following general policy questions:
Bulk Plane
Does the Planning Commission/Board of Adjustment want to move more toward basing building
setbacks based on height? If so, do we want to consider the possibility of implementing any type
of bulk plan requirements? An example of a bulk plane standard where setbacks are based on
the scale of buildings is provided below from Denver.
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City of
Wheat Pdge
COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT
rbu~r JV\ P
Memorandum
TO: Planning Division ✓
FROM: Jeff Hirt, Planner W SC SC EAI~ 04-ES
DATE: November 13, 2008 l 1 1
SUBJECT: Residential Setbacks
Residential setbacks were evaluated and changed as part of Case No. ZOA-03-09. From my
review of that case file, a substantial amount of time (well over 1 year from the first public
hearing) and research went into these changes. Numerous memos and minutes from meetings
indicated a consistent request for more information from the Planning Commission and staff.
From meeting-to-meeting, additional recommendations for changes were made as new issues
were discussed.
In order to make the process go smoother from the start, I would suggest putting together a report
to bring forward to the Planning Commission/City Council (study session?) for review and
comment. I would suggest the below items to include in the report. We could begin the report
with our recommendations, with a significant amount of supporting documentation to help them
make their decisions and any recommended changes.
1. Recommendations
• District-by-district code language revisions
2. Issue Summary
• Principle buildings (setbacks)
• Accessory buildings (setbacks -by height/bulk?, differentiate b/w sheds and
garages?)
3. Background/History - 2003 Residential Setback Amendments
• Summary of final changes
• Summary of research and analysis done at that time
• Summary of comments from public, planning commission and city council
4. Variance Case History
• Research and conclusions related to development standards recommended for change
(by district and location)
5. Comparable Jurisdiction Summary
• Build off research/tables from 2003 setback amendments
6. Existing Conditions
• Wheat Ridge development standards in residential districts district-by-district (w/
models and illustrations)
7. Analysis of Recommendations
0 District-by-district, photographs, models of how changes might look
Sec. 26-205. Residential-One District (R-1).
A. Intent and purpose. This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
low-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the low-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Side
Rear
Maximum
Building
Lot
Lot
Front
Yard
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area
Width
Yard
Setback (a)
Setback
Setback
(a)
One-family dwelling
35'
25%
12,500 sf
100'
30' (b)
15'
15'
Group home
35'
25%
12,500 sf
100'
30' (b)
15'
15'
Accessory buildings
(e)
Detached garage or
15'
1,000 sf
12,500 sf
100'
30' (b)
15'
15'
carport
Private storage shed
10'
400 sf
12,500 sf
100'
30'
15' (c)
15' (c)
Churches, schools,
government and quasi-
government buildings,
golf courses, small day
35'
25%
1 acre
200'
30'
15' (d)
20'
care center, and
nursing, elderly and
congregate care
homes
All other uses
35'
25%
12,500 sf
100'
30' (b)
5' (c)
15'
Notes:
(a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30)
feet for all structures.
(b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be
reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-
123.3 at the end of section 26-123)
(c) Any building or structure which houses animals, except a residence, shall be set back fifteen
(15) feet from property lines and at least thirty (30) feet from a residence on an adjacent parcel.
(d) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(e) Metal accessory buildings over one hundred twenty (120) square feet in size are not
2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 1, 10-27-03)
' NOTE: I recommended that we add this in to call attention to the fact that setback reductions may be
allowed where the majority of the properties in the vicinity have lesser front setbacks. This seems to be a
little used provision. I added this to all residential districts.
15'
15'
15'
e
•f8
15'
Sec. 26-206. Residential-One A District (R-1A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
low-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the low-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLEINSET:
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum
Building
Lot
Lot
Front
Yard
Side
Yard
Rear
Yard
Height
Coverage
Area (e)
Width
Setback
Setback (a)
Setback (a)
(e)
One-family dwelling
35'
30%
9,000 sf
75'
259
b
10'
15'
(
)
Group home
35'
30%
9,000 sf
75'
25.'
10'
15'
(b)
Accessory buildings
(f)
5'if<=8'in
5'if<=8'in
Detached garage or
15'
1
000 sf
9,000 sf
75'
30' (b)
height; 10' if
'
height; 10' if
'
carport
,
in height
> 8
in height
> 8
5' (c) if 8'
5' (c) if 8'
Private storage shed
10'
400 sf
9,000 sf
75'
30'
in height; 10'
'
in height; 10'
'
in
if>8
in
if>8
height
height
Churches, schools,
government and quasi-
government buildings,
golf courses, small day
35'
30%
1 acre
200'
25'
15' (d)
20'
care center, and
nursing, elderly and
congregate care
homes
All other uses
35'
30%
9,000 sf
75'
30' (b)
10'
15'
Notes:
(a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (5
9) feet for all structures.
(b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be
reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-
123.3.)
' QUESTION: Do we want to keep detached structures to be required to be behind the principle structure?
I could see detached garages being built 5 foot in front on an existing 30' setback house if this regulation
gets adopted. Same question goes for all districts.
(c) Any building or structure which houses animals, except a residence, shall be set back fifteen
(15) feet from property lines and at least thirty (30) feet from a residence on an adjacent parcel.
(d) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(e) Corner lots shall have a minimum of nine thousand six hundred (9,600) square feet and a
minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(f) Metal accessory buildings over one hundred twenty (120) square feet in size are not
permitted.
- - -
(g)'Frohtsgtli k retluctions.maybe,allbyaed in accordance~iitfi Section 26-811. 11 (Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No.'
o. 1313, § 2, 10-27-03)
10'
30'
10'
I
Sec. 26-209. Residential-Two District (R-2)
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
low to moderate-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which
are incompatible with the residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum
Building
Minimum
Lot
Front
Side
Rear
Height
Coverage
Lot
Area
Width
Yard
Setback
Yard
Setback (a)
Yard
etback a
S
One-family dwelling
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75' (f)
(b) 3B
,
5' (c)
10'
Two-family dwelling
35'
40%
12,500
sf
100'
25
(b)
5' (c)
10'
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25'.
5' (c)
10'
(b)
Accessory buildings (g)
5'if<=8'in
5<=8'in
Detached garage or
15'
1,000 sf
9,000 sf
75'
30' (b)
height; 10' if
'
height; 10' if > 8'
carport
per unit
in height
> 8
in height
5' (d) if
'
5' (d) if 8' in
Private storage shed
10'
400 sf
9.000 sf
75'
30'
in height;
8
10' if > 8' in
height; 10' if > 8'
height
in height
Churches, schools,
government and quasi-
government buildings, golf
courses, small day care
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' 3Q
15' (e)
20'
center, and nursing, elderly
and congregate care
homes
All other uses
35'
40%
9.000 sf
75'
30' (b)
5' (c)
10'
Notes:
(a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (25 30) feet for
all structures.
(b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten
(10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(c) A total of fifteen (15) feet side yard setback for every individual lot with a minimum of five (5) feet on one
(1) side.
(d) Any building or structure which houses animals, except a residence, shall be set back fifteen (15) feet.
(e) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(f) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(a) Metal accessory buildinas over 120 sauare feet in size are not permitted.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 5,10-27-03)
10'
/ Detached
Garage
Shed
Principal
Structure
10'
10'
Sec. 26-207. Residential-One B District.
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable
small lot, low-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature which are
incompatible with the low-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLEINSET:
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum
Building
Minimum
Lot
Front
Side
Rear
Height
Coverage
Lot
Width
Yard
Yard
Yard
Area
(f)
Setback
Setback (a)
Setback (a)
One-family dwelling
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
,
5' (c)
10'
(b)
Group home
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
39
25'
5' (c)
10'
(b)
Accessory buildings
(g)
5'if<=8'in
5'if<=8'in
Detached garage or
15'
600 sf
7,500 sf
60'
30' (b)
height; 10' if
height; 10' if
carport
> 8' in height
> 8' in height
5' (d) if 8'
5' (d) if 8'
Private storage shed
10'
300 sf
7,500 sf
60'
30'
in height; 10'
in height; 10'
if>8'in
if>8'in
height
height
Churches, schools,
government and
quasi-government
buildings, golf
courses, small day
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' AW'
15' (e)
20'
care center, and
nursing, elderly and
congregate care
homes
All other uses
35'
40%
9.000 sf
60'
30' (b)
5' (c)
10'
Notes:
(a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (25 39) feet for
all structures.
(b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten
(10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(c) A total of fifteen (15) feet side yard setback for every individual lot with a minimum of five (5) feet on one
(1) side.
(d) Any building or structure which houses animals, except a residence, shall be set back fifteen (15) feet
from property lines and at least thirty (30) feet from a residence on an adjacent parcel.
(e) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(f) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(q) Metal accessory buildinqs over 120 square feet in size are not permitted.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 3, 10-27-03)
Sec. 26-208. Residential-One C District (R-1 C). '
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet and stable,
medium-density single-family residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any nature
which are incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum
Building
Minimum
Minimum
Front
Side
Rear
Height
Coverage
Lot
Lot
Yard
Yard
Yard
Area
Width
Setback
Setback (a)
Setback (a)
One-family dwelling
35'
40%
5,000 sf
50
20! 1W
5'
5'
(
Group home
35'
40%
5,000 sf
50'
20 ~9
5'
5'
(b)
Accessory buildings
(e)
5'if<=8'in
5'if<=8'in
Detached garage or
15'
600 sf
5,000 sf
50,
30' (b)
height; 10' if
height; 10' if
carport
> 8' in height
> 8' in height
5' (c) if 8'
S' (c) if 8'
Private storage shed
10'
200 sf
5,000 sf
50'
30'
in height; 10'
'
in height; 10'
'
if>8
in
if>8
in
height
height
Churches, schools,
government and quasi-
government buildings,
golf courses, small day
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
20' 38
15'
20'
care center, and
.
nursing, elderly and
congregate care
homes
All other uses
35'
40%
5,000 sf
50,
30' (b)
5' (c)
10'
Notes:
(a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (2Q
39) feet for all structures.
NOTE: Most of the properties zoned R-I C are those east of Wadsworth and south of 38"' Avenue. This
is the area of the city with a substantial portion that was built out prior to the city's incorporation, and likely
prior to any 30' setback requirement. There area a substantial amount of properties that do not meet the 30
foot front setback. Many have setbacks closer to 20 feet, with some less than this. This is the one zone
district that is fairly geographically isolated - unlike the R-3 district for instance where there are properties
with this zoning as far east as Sheridan and as far west as Youngfield.
(b) Front setbacks for structures on lots or portions of lots which abut cul-de-sacs may be
reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-
123.3.)
(c) Any building or structure which houses animals, except a residence, shall be set back fifteen
(15) feet from property lines and at least thirty (30) feet from a residence on an adjacent parcel.
(d) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(e) Metal accessorv buildinas over 120 square feet in size are not permitted.
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 4, 1
Sec. 26-210. Residential-Two A District (R-2A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide
medium-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit
incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
high quality, safe, quiet and stable
activities of any nature which are
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum
Building
Minimum
Minimum
Front
Side
Rear
Height
Coverage
Lot
Lot
Yard
Yard
Yard
Area
Width
Setback
Setback
Setback (a)
(a)
One-family dwelling
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60' (g)
25';;8
b
5' per story
10'
(
)
Two-family dwelling
35'
40%
9.000 sf
75' (g)
-
)
5' per story
10'
(b
(b)
10'for one or
Multifamily (3/more
'
13,050
'
'
5' per story
two story
'
dwelling units)
35
40%
sf (c)
100
25
30-
buildings; 15
for three story
buildings
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
28z&
5' per story
10'
Accessory buildings
(i)
5'if<=8'in
5'if<=8'in
Detached garage or
15
600 sf (per
9,000 sf
75,
30' (b)
height; 10' if
'
height; 10' if >
carport
unit)
in
> 8
8' in height
height
5' (d) if
5' (d) if 8'
Private storage shed
10,
400 sf/4
9,000 sf
75'
30'
8' in height;
in height; 10' if
d.u.
10' if > 8' in
> 8' in height
height
Churches, schools,
government and
quasi-government
buildings, golf
courses, small day
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
2v'9
15' (e)
20'
care center, and
nursing, elderly and
congregate care
homes
All other uses
35'
40%
9.000 sf
75' (9)
30'
5'
10'
Notes:
(a) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30)
feet for all structures.
(b) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots which abut
cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which abut a cul-de-sac
bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(c) A minimum of four thousand three hundred fifty (4,350) square feet of land area shall be
required for each dwelling unit for multifamily buildings.
(d) Any building or structure which houses animals, except a residence, shall be set back fifteen
(15) feet.
(e) Fifteen-foot setback for the first story and five (5) feet for each additional story.
(f) Reserved.
(g) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street frontages.
(h) Reserved.
(i) Metal accessory buildings over 120 square feet in size are not permitted.
GYFronf setback reducfons tnay be, allov¢ed'iri acebidd e:~yifh'Sectian 26=8115
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with minimum lot
area and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable to the reconstruction
of multifamily dwelling units in the R-2A district, where such structures and their reconstruction
meet all of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum lot area
and/or minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished from legal
nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 6, 10-27-03)
Single and Two Family Principle Structures
io,
5' per story setback
1.o'
Multi-family Principle Structures
fflGh
5' per story setback
15' rear setback for 3 story
454FLA
10,
10'
10'
10'
Sec. 26-211. Residential-Three District (R-3).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet
and stable medium to high-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of
any nature which are incompatible with the medium to high-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum
Building
Lot
Lot
Front
Side
Rear
Height
Coverage
Area
Width
Yard
Yard
Yard
Setback
Setback (b)
Setback (b)
One-family dwelling
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60' (f)
2
5' per story
10'
(c)
Two-family dwelling
35'
40%
9,000 sf
(f)
75'
z
5°-
p story
5' per sto
] 0'
(c)
Multifamily (3 or more
35'
40%
12,500 sf
100'
25'~
15' (a)
15' (a)
dwelling units)
(d)
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
5' per story
10'
c)
Accessroty buildings (g)
Detached garage or
'
600 sf per
'
'
5' if 8'm
'
5' if 8' in
'
15
9,000 sf
75
30
(c)
height; 10
if>
height; 10
if>
carport
unit
Tin height
8' in height
400 sf/4
5' (e) if 8'
S' (e) if 8'
Private storage shed
10'
d
u
9,000 sf
75'
30'
in height; 10' if
in height; 10' if
.
.
> 8' in height
> 8' in height
Churches, schools,
government and quasi-
government buildings,
golf courses, small day
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
25' 39-'
15' (a)
20'
care center, and nursing,
elderly and congregate
care homes
All other uses
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60' (f)
30' (c)
5' per story
10'
Notes:
(a) Side and rear yard setback shall be fifteen (15) feet for the first two (2) stories and an
additional five (5) feet for each additional story over two (2) stories.
(b) Any side yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of thirty (30)
feet for all structures.
(c) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots
which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which
abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(d) A minimum of three thousand six hundred thirty (3,630) square feet of land area shall
be required for each dwelling unit for multifamily buildings.
(e) Any building or structure which houses animals, except a residence, shall be set back
fifteen (15) feet.
(f) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street
frontages.
(a) Metal accessorv buildines over 120 square feet in size are not permitted.
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with
minimum lot area and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable
to the reconstruction of multifamily dwelling units in the R-3 district, where such
structures and their reconstruction meet all of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum
lot area and/or minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed
reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been
destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished
from legal nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 7, 10-27-03)
Single and Two Family Principle Structures
14'
5' per story setback
Multifamily Principle Structures
15'
15'
See. 26-212. Residential-Three A District (R-3A).
A. Intent and purpose: This district is established to provide high quality, safe, quiet
and stable medium-density residential neighborhoods, and to prohibit activities of any
nature which are incompatible with the medium-density residential character.
B. Development standards:
TABLE INSET:
Maximum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Minimum
Maximum
Building
Lot
Lot
Front
Side
Rear
Height
Coverage
Area
Width
Yard
Yard
Yard
Setback
Setback (b)
Setback (b)
One-family dwelling
35'
40%
7,500 sf
60'
(f)
5' per story
10'
(c)
Two-family dwelling
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
(f)
x'
T per story
10'
(c)
Multifamily (3+ dwelling
35'
40%
12,500 sf
100,
25'9
15' (a)
15' (a)
units)
(d)
Group home
35'
40%
9,000 sf
75'
25',39
5' per story
10'
(c)
Accessory buildings (g)
Detached garage or
600 sf per
5' if 8' in
5' if 8' in
15
9,000 sf
75'
30' (c)
height; 10' if>
height; 10' if>
carport
unit
8' in height
8' in height
400 sfl4
5' (e) if 8'
S' (e) if 8'
Private storage shed
10'
d.u.
9,000 sf
75'
30'
in height; 10' if
in height; 10' if
> 8' in height
> Tin height
Churches, schools,
government and quasi-
government buildings,
golf courses, small day
35'
40%
1 acre
200'
30'
15' (a)
20'
care center, and nursing,
elderly and congregate
care homes
All other uses
35'
40%
9,000 sf
60' (f)
30' (c)
15' (a)
10'
Notes:
(a) Side and rear yard setback shall be fifteen (15) feet for the first two (2) stories and an
additional five (5) feet for each additional story over two (2) stories.
(b) Any side or rear yard which abuts a public street shall have a minimum setback of
thirty (30) feet for all structures.
(c) Front setbacks for one-or two-family dwelling structures on lots or portions of lots
which abut cul-de-sacs may be reduced to ten (10) feet for those portions of lots which
abut a cul-de-sac bulb. (See Figure 26-123.3.)
(d) A minimum of three thousand nine hundred sixty (3,960) square feet of land area
shall be required for each dwelling unit for multifamily buildings.
(e) Any building or structure which houses animals, except a residence, shall be set back
fifteen (15) feet.
(f) Corner lots shall have a minimum lot width of eighty (80) feet for both street
frontages.
(g) Metal accessory buildings over 120 square feet in size are not permitted.
The requirements of section 26-120C.2. shall not apply to require compliance with
minimum lot area and/or minimum land area per unit requirements otherwise applicable
to the reconstruction of multifamily dwelling units in the R-3A district, where such
structures and their reconstruction meet all of the following requirements:
1. The structure was legally in existence on September 8, 1997,
2. The structure is located upon a lot which does not meet the then-applicable minimum
lot area and/or minimum land area per unit requirements for such proposed
reconstruction, and
3. Such reconstruction is restricted to replacement of the structure which has been
destroyed.
This exemption shall not apply to:
1. New construction where no replacement of a preexisting structure takes place or
2. Reconstruction of structures which were not legally in existence (as distinguished
from legal nonconforming structures).
(Ord. No. 2001-1215, § 1, 2-26-01; Ord. No. 1313, § 8, 10-27-03)
Single and Two Family Principle Structures
is
5' per story setback
10,
Multifamily Principle Structures
is,
is,
10,
10'
10,
10'
Extended Stay Lodging -10.22.08
Jerry Dahl, Ken Johnstone, Jeff Hirt, Meredith Reckert
Issue:
What do we do with existing rooms being rented out for extended stay in some of our
rooms? Legal nonconforming? Amortize?
Solution proposed:
• They will become nonconforming, and not allowed after the effective date that we
specify (not effective date of ordinance but a specific date).
• The rationale for not allowing a period of amortization is to say the rooms being
rented out now for extended stay go against the idea of "transient", as
hotels/motels are currently defined in code. Even though it doesn't explicitly say
what transient is, the assumption is that transient is less than 30 days - its only
now that we're codifying it.
• What about rooms already leased, that can prove they have valid leases in before
effective date of ordinance? Doesn't matter - they are not transient. Besides,
they are in violation of building code for over 30 days.
• Need to memorialize these statements in staff report.
Residential-One District (R-1)/
Residential-One A District (R-1A)
Residential-One B District (R-1B)
Residential-One C District (R-1C)
Residential-Two District (R-2)✓
Residential-Two A District (R-2A)
Residential-Three District (R-3)
Residential-Three A District (R-3A)
Agri cultural-One District (A-1)
Agricultural-Two District (A-2)
Neighborhood Commercial District (NC)
Restricted Commercial District (RC)
Commercial-One District (C-1)
Commercial-Two District (C-2)
Light Industrial District (I)
Planned Development District (PD)
Streetscape Overlay District (SO)
Architectural Design Overlay District (ADO)
Conservation District