HomeMy WebLinkAbout2020-10-26 PACKET 07.1.
TO: Planning Commission
Jennifer Levitt, City Administrator
FROM: Emily Schmitz, Senior Planner
DATE: October 21, 2020
RE: Clear View Triangle Proposed Amendment
Background/Discussion
At the July 27, 2020, Planning Commission meeting, the Planning Commission asked staff about
code standards for fencing on corner lots, specifically for properties that abut a City trail at an inter-
section. After additional discussion at the August 24 Planning Commission meeting, Commissioner
Brittain inquired about a zoning amendment to the clear view triangle definition.
The City’s Zoning Code language (Title 11-3-5E) defines a clear view triangle as the following:
E. Clear View Triangle: On corner lots, no structure or planting in excess of thirty inches
(30") above the curb line or less than ten feet (10') above the curb line shall be permitted
within a clear view triangle described as that area that begins at the intersection of the
front property line and corner side property line and is measured back ten feet (10')
along both property lines. Those points are then connected with a straight line.
The current definition of the clear view triangle refers only to property corners within the front of a
property and not adjacent to a rear property line. The majority of parcels do not have three property
lines abutting a public street, although there are circumstances where a parcel may have three prop-
erty lines abutting a public street in which case a clear view triangle would provide an additional sight
line for vehicles and pedestrians. The below proposed definition of a clear view triangle would require
fencing be set back from the corner of the parcel lines at both front and rear property lines allowing
for a clear view for oncoming pedestrian and vehicular traffic.
Clear View Triangle Proposed Amendment
October 21, 2020
Page 2 of 3
A proposed amended definition might include the following:
Clear View Triangle: On corner lots, no structure or planting in excess of thirty inches (30") above
the curb line or less than ten feet (10') above the curb line shall be permitted within a clear view
triangle described as that area that begins at the intersection of the front or rear property
line and corner side property line and is measured back ten feet (10') along both property lines.
Those points are then connected with a straight line.
Given the City does not currently require a permit for installation of a fence, an amendment of the
clear view triangle definition is not a failsafe. The City can continue to provide information to
homeowners as a part of new home permits and on the City’s website along with handouts avail-
able at City Hall. Given there is no way for staff to enforce the clear view triangle prior to a fence
installation, implementation of an administrative fence permit would allow for review of proposed
fences within the community to ensure clear view triangles are maintained.
This amended definition would not prohibit a trail within the clear view triangle, although trails are
typically installed within City outlots or within public right-of-way (City and/or County) and the pro-
posed locations are reviewed as a part of any development approval to ensure locations are safe
for pedestrians and vehicular traffic.
Clear View Triangle Proposed Amendment
October 21, 2020
Page 3 of 3
Recommendation
Receive information related to a clear view triangle definition amendment and provide direction
on whether or not to proceed with a formal zoning amendment and proceed with an administrative
fence permit process.