HomeMy WebLinkAbout2015-05-18 PACKET 09.2.
TO:
Planning Commission Members
FROM:
John McCool, Senior Planner
DATE:
May 15, 2015
RE:
Renaissance Fireworks, LLC – Interim Conditional Use Permit for Temporary
Outdoor Fireworks Sales
At the Planning Commission meeting on April 27, 2015, the Commission expressed a concern if a
fire was to occur inside the proposed metal storage container for the temporary outdoor fireworks
sales in the former Rainbow Foods’ parking lot. At the meeting, staff informed Commission mem-
bers that additional information would be provided to City Council relative to the security of the
metal storage container.
For your information, staff reported your concern to the City Council and provided responses from
the Cottage Grove Department of Public Safety and the owner of the metal container (Dart Portable
Storage, Inc.). The Cottage Grove Police Division believes the portable storage container is an
appropriate vessel to contain fireworks. The Fire Division reported that the National Fire Protection
Association’s 1124 Code for the Manufacture, Transportation, Storage, and Retail Sales of Fire-
works and Pyrotechnic Articles states that metal shipping containers are allowed for storage. Fire
protection requirements for external storage has separation distance requirements from buildings
and fueling dispensing operations. The proposed location of Renaissance Fireworks temporary
outdoor fireworks sales tent and storage container complies with the separation requirements cited
above.
A representative from Dart Portable Storage, Inc. reported that they have supplied the proposed
metal containers to fireworks vendors for many years and there have not been any fires inside any
of their containers. The representative stated “that their storage containers are the most secure and
robust form of steel container available. They are made from strong galvanized steel and are built
to withstand elements and last many years. The containers are quite safe and are one of the most
widely used devices for storing fireworks. However, there is always risk associated with flammable
products regardless of how durable their containers are. If there is an accident, the fire could pos-
sibly spread to other places. It is unlikely that it would explode, but there is always risk involved.”
Dart Portable Storage suggested that the container be closed and securely locked and placed in a
space that will prevent a fire from spreading to other structures. As a solid steel product, the con-
tainers are theft proof with their lockbox included on each unit. They also reported that their portable
containers are better than storing materials in the trailer of a semi-tractor truck or similar transport
vehicle, trailer, or van.
The City Council unanimously approved Renaissance Fireworks interim conditional use permit for
only a one-year period. The Planning Commission had recommended approval for a three-year
period. The primary reason for the one-year approval timeframe was based on the future reuse or
redevelopment of this site.