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HomeMy WebLinkAbout04.27.99 Special Planning Packet . . . , , AGENDA PLANNING COMMISSION Special April 27, 1999 at 7:00 P.M. Council Chambers 325 Oak Street 1. CALL TO ORDER 2. PUBLIC HEARINGS 7:00 PM a) Conditional Use Permit - Blimpie Subs (continued from April 13, 1999) b) Amend Title 10 Chapter 8 of the Farmington Zoning Ordinance: Interim UsePennits 3. DISCUSSION c) Amend Title 10 Chapter 9 of the Farmington Zoning Ordinance: Wetland Protection Ordinance 4. ADJOURN '- . . . City of Farmington 325 Oak Street, Farmington, MN 55024 (651) 463-7111 Fax (651) 463-2591 www.ci.farmineton.mn.us TO: City Planning Commission Michael Schultz n f) Associate Planner f/-A:/ FROM: SUBJECT: Conditional Use Permit - Fast Food Establishment & Office Space DATE: April 27, 1999 DISCUSSION Brett and Amy Jensen are seeking a conditional use permit for a fast food restaurant and office space use within a proposed multi-use commercial building at the southeast corner of Pilot Knob Road and Upper 183f Street. The property is part of the Dakota County Estates PUD and is zoned B-1 (Limited Business). The applicants are also constructing the commercial building. This is a continued public hearing from the April 13, 1999 Planning Commission meeting when it was continued because of a lack of site plan information and engineering concerns, details are given in the attached staff report dated April 13, 1999. A meeting was not held until April 21 sl between Planning, Engineering and Building Inspection staff and the applicant and their architect. Staff clarified the required information that was needed to proceed with the conditional use permit. Because of the meeting date, it was not feasible for the architect to revise the plans and for staff to properly review the revisions before the staff reports were complete. ACTION REOUESTED Staff recommends that the public hearing be continued to the May 11, 1999 Planning Commission in order to allow the architect to submit the revised site plans in addition to allowing staff sufficient time to properly review those plans. Respectfully Submitted, Michael Schultz Associate Planner cc: Brett & Amy Jensen . . . City of Farmington 325 Oak Street, Farmington, MN 55024 (651) 463-7111 Fax (651) 463-2591 www.ci.farmin&ton.mn.us TO: City Planning Commission Michael Schultz pP Application for Conditional Use Permit- Brett & Amy Jensen FROM: SUBJECT: DATE: April 13, 1999 Planninl! Division Review Applicant: Attachments: Subject Property: Size of Property: Proposed Use: Proposed Building Size: Proposed Parking: Existing Zoning: Existing Comprehensive Plan Use: Existing Land Use: Surrounding Land Uses: Brett & Amy Jensen 19438 Everest Path Farmington, MN 55024 1. CUP Application 2. 10-3-2: Permitted and Conditional Uses 3. Location Map 4. Site PlanlElevation Drawings 5. Memo from Jerry Auge dated April 9, 1999 Lot 1, Block 1, Dakota County Estates 9th Addition (southeast comer ofC.S.A.H. 31 and Upper. 193rd St. W.) +/- 1.1 acre Fast Food Establishment and Office Space 4,000 square feet 37 stalls/2 handicap stalls R-4 (PUD) Business Vacant North: Business East: Multi-family (townhomes) West: Single-family residential/ROW South: Vacant Business . DISCUSSION Brett and Amy Jensen are proposing a 4,000 square foot commercial building on the southeast corner of Pilot Knob Rd and Upper 183rd Street W. that would contain a fast food establishment along with 2 leasible office spaces. The applicants are also reserving space to the north for future expansion. The fast food establishment will make up just over two-thirds of the floor space of the building, the office/warehouse space would contain the remainder of the floor area. One of the leasible office/warehouse spaces will be used by the applicants for the business of landscaping and also automobile lettering. The front portion of the would be comprised of the sales office of the landscape business, while the warehouse portion, which will have an overhead door, is proposed to be used for both the storage of landscape vehicles and the for the use of the automobile lettering. The Jensen's have stated that there will be no outdoor storage of landscape material and heavy machinery. The following is breakdown of the required review of the conditional use permit. Landscaping- The landscape plan proposes a three-foot (3') high berm with Green Ash trees along the east property line adjacent to English Ave to provide screening to residents across the street. The remainder of the landscape plan proposes Green Ash to be planted along Pilot Knob Rd and Pyramidal Arborvitae (pines) to be planted along the north property line of Upper 183rd Street W. Pyramidal Arborvitae is also proposed within the interior around the building. It has been calculated that over fifty percent (50%) of the site plan is shown as landscaping. . Staff would recommend that some of the Pyramidal Arborvitae be replaced with the Green Ash (or another species) especially along Upper 183rd Street W. and on the interior lot, the reason is that.the Arborvitae's future width possibly will screen too much, especially along major roadways. It might be recommended that some of the Green Ash along English be replaced with two of the Arborvitae to add additional screening to the residential side. Staff also recommends that landscaping be provided along side the building in the form of shrubs and possibly rock beds. An enclosed dumpster will be located on the English Street side of the building (the rear) and be screened by the berm and Arborvitae to the north. Parking/Access- The site plan proposes thirty-seven (37) parking stalls (9 feet by 18 feet) plus two (2) handicap stalls, this amount satisfies the City's parking requirements. The main customer parking is shown along Pilot Knob Rd., parking in the rear will be mainly employee parking. Access into the parking lot will align with the access into the strip center to the north, near English Ave. The other access along English will attempt to align as close to the townhome driveway as possible. Planning Staff has also reviewed the possibility to connect portions of this parking lot with future adjacent parking lots to relieve continuous vehicular traffic onto English Ave. Staff recommends . . . . that the applicant at this time or an agreed upon future date (possibly when development of the south lot occurs) make the connection between the Pilot Knob Road parking lots to avoid such possible situation. (see attached 10-8-5 (C) 5) The Engineering Division has identified issues in the turning radius into the main parking area and width of the driving lane. Those issues can be discussed and resolved between the architect and City staff. Building/Design- The proposed four-thousand square foot (4,000 sq. ft.) building will be constructed of a wood frame with a brick veneer around the entire building. The roof is at a 4/12 pitch and will be shingled. The building design appears that it will transition well with the residential homes on the east side of English Ave. The floor area of the fast food establishment is approximately 1,700 square feet, while the middle office/warehouse unit is approximately 1,120 square feet and the end office/warehouse unit is approximately 1,180 square feet. The Building Official has done a preliminary review of the project based on the site plan and has listed several concerns; those include firewall separation between restaurant and warehouse, handicap accessibility in the middle unit bathroom and the possible need to sprinkle the entire building. Both the Building Official and the Fire Marshall will have full review upon submittal of a building permit and complete set of plans. Signage- Signage for the building tenants is proposed along the front fascia of the building, the fascia is measured at two feet (2') in height. Signage for multi-tenant buildings need Planning Commission approval through submittal of a signage plan per the City sign ordinance, this will be completed at a later date when applicants make application for a sign permit. Parking Lot and directional signage will be observed during this process also. Recycling/Trash- Placement of the trash container will need to coincide with type of container used. There are two types of containers that are possible, a round side dump type container that would allow sanitary trucks to just pull up to the enclosure; and there is the standard dumpster which is rear loaded and would require some room to maneuver. Sidewalks/Trails- Concrete sidewalks will be required per the City's Sidewalk/Trail Plan along both Upper 1 83rd Street W. and English Ave. The sidewalk will stem off the existing trail along Pilot Knob Road and-running along Upper 183rd Street W. and turn south along English Ave which will eventually connect to the existing sidewalk near Super America (English Ave and Elk River Trail). Engineering is requesting plans and specifications on the construction of the sidewalk. Exterior Lighting Plan- A detailed lighting plan is currently not included in the submitted plans. The applicant will need to submit a detailed exterior/overhead lighting plan that indicates details of the lighting (i.e., wattage of the lights and lighting spill). ACTION REOUESTED Planning Staff recommends that the Commission continue the public hearing until the April 27, 1999 Planning Commission meeting based on the following requested information: a) Revisions be made to the site plan in reference to all engineering comments (see attached memo from Jerry Auge); b) A review by the City Fire Marshall be completed; c) Landscape modifications be made to the landscape plan per staff recommendations and City Code requirements; d) The parking lot connection between the subject property and the south lot be shown on the parking lot plan (the timing and completion of that portion of the lot can be determined between staff and the applicant); . Staff will make any approval contingencies after the requested additional information has been submitted at the next Planning Commission meeting. . cc: Brett & Amy Jensen David Darrell file . 02/24/99 12: 59 'a'612463l61r - - - CITY FAlUlJNbTUN ~ 0010/0016 . .w. .' . " . ... City of FarmingtoD Variance/Conditional Use Permit' 315 Oak Street, Farmington, MN 55024 'u.40-1111 FAX61~2S91 APPUCAUON FOR: 0 Varlmc:c er6>~oD81 Use- If<< IJJ.1Iu lISe (pIMSe clr<<:lc) *NquiRa ... abIIncton ClCCdftc:a1le of 0WDllft wtddD 350 ft. NUMBER (........ cost - S2S0-3S0) . LEGAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPERTY: (Io~ block, plat name. Section, township. range) LOT I I f3 Lo 0:: I (HW.(n~ (()utVT'1 t;:<5iA.,f q..fn AporTI.OtU ZONING DISTRICT ~ 4 oVO PHONE bl7. -LJ69 -Jt.ID "$ 55Q2~ . ZlpCotk FEE OWNER"S NAME I3RET1 J EN'f) F tJ . ADDRESS: /'P-l"'5 ~ EuE(t~S1" PATH MN Street Stille PRESBNTLANDUSE: V~(ANr .~17" SPECIFY NAlURE OF REQUEST AND GROUNDS: FP.S1 1="000 / o~r;Ic.E. - A./p.fZ.ewo(,/sE- FOLLOWING A IT ACHED: (plcuc check) 0 ProofofOWnctship 0 Boundary Survey (9':ApplicatioD Fee EJCopies of Site Plan GfAbsll1lCt OT_(o-'s~=;t~ App1icaat'sSi~ ~~ ApplicaDt'sS. Dale 3- (;-91 Date flJr olJlu use only -" . REQUEST SUBMIn'ED TO THE PLANNING COMMISSION ON ACTION: OPubUc Heartac set for: o DeDied Reason: FINAL ACTION: 0 Approved Comments: o Deled ReasOR: ZONING ADMINISTRATOR: DATE: sfgnorure 10-3-2 10-3-2 (Ord. 086-177, 3-17-1986; amd. Ord. 088-198. 2-1-1988; Ord. 091-246, 5-20-1991; Ord. 092-284, 9-21-1992; Ord. 093-298, 2-16-1993; Ord. 096-378, 8-19-1996) )/; (G) B-1 Limited Business District . 1. Water recreation and water storage 2. Public buildings 3. Public utility buildings 4. Farm implement sales. service, repair 5. Offices 6. Wholesale business 7. Supply yards 8. Fast food establishments 9. Theaters 10. Mini storage units 11. Outdoor sales 12. Personal and professional services 13. Car wash 14. Solar energy systems 15. Day care facility serving more than 16 persons 16. Recreational assembly places 17. Auction houses (Ord. 086-177, 3-17-1986; amd. Ord. 090-227, 2-5-1990; Ord. 091-246,5-20-1991; Ord. 095-345, 1-3-1995) 1. Retail business 2. Auto sales, service, repair 3. Restaurants 4. Hotels and motels 5. Animal clinics 6. Commercial recreation 7. Recreational equipment sales, service and repair 8. Motor fuel stations, major 9. Clubs, health clubs 10. Home and trailer sales and displays 11. Parking lots (H) B-2 General Business District 1. Retail business 2. Restaurants 3. Offices 4. Personal and professional service 5. Public buildings 6. Auto sales, service and repair 7. Commercial schools 8. Commercial recreation 9. Animal clinics 10. Clubs - health clubs City of Farmin.gton . 1. Water recreation and water storage 2. Research laboratories 3. Public utility buildings 4. Solar energy systems 5. Multiple-family dwellings 6. Wholesale business 7. Supply yards 8. Funeral homes 9. Elderly and handicapped housing 597 . ~ --- -- --T ,,_~H_____ fC-jj - / I J ..... ~ / /L__ I- m c ---- ,,~ a: ." ~ ('If) It"'" GO ~ .... I- / m ~ c a: -----... ('If) ,,~ GO .... a: w 0. 0. :J - EN GUSH AVE CII ~ e a.,S $lEe .!!U)GI ~ , ~ u 1 \ all LV IIG ~ ~ - ,,\ I ~ Q. 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OJ ':~l~;~~;f':'t~ ... . .; '8' . ,,'~J..D ~R...": ~r,,"~. -~ - - ~i - (. \-. . . ...... ..- '-:"-'.;.';:4-.0.$ i. I I I .\ . , l :, ~',..,.........,..~., ....:~~ .- ';~.), r' -'U.J) i . . City of Farmington 325 Oak Street, Farmington, MN 55024 (651) 463-7111 Fax (651) 463-2591 www.d.farminiton.mn.us TO: Mike Schultz, Associate Planner FROM: Jerry Auge, Jr., Civil Engineer I SUBJECT: Blimpie Sub Preliminary Review DATE: April 9, 1999 The City of Farmington has reviewed the preliminary grading plans for the above submitted project. The following requirements are requested prior to further engineering review: . 1. Existing and proposed elevations submitted on a 24" x 36" grading plan sheet. This shall include any lighting, utilities, and site layout. 2. The storm sewer is proposed to be placed through the future extension area. Relocation of the storm sewer is recommended. Profiles of all utilities need to be included in the plans. 3. All dimensions of parking lots and drive lanes need to be shown on the plans. Show all high and low points in the parking lots. Access and parking lot radii shall be large enough to accommodate garbage and fIre truck access. The Fire Marshall will need to approve the layout. . 4. Show proposed size and locations of water and sewer services. 5. Sidewalk is required along Upper 183rd Street and English Avenue. These comments need to be addressed in the next submittal and are preliminary in nature. Additional issues may be identifIed when the complete set of plans is submitted. ~?e Jerry AUW- Civil Engineer I . . . . City of Farmington 325 Oak Street, Farmington, MN 55024 (651) 463-7111 Fax (651) 463-2591 www.ci.farmington.mn.us TO: City Planning Commission Lee Smick, AICP .f)!iJ Planning Coordinator FROM: SUBJECT: Amend Title 10, Chapter 8 - Interim Use Permits DATE: Apri127, 1999 INTRODUCTION The Planning Commission directed City staff at the March 9, 1999 meeting to draft an interim use ordinance for the purpose of allowing a temporary use of a property until a particular date, the occurrence of a particular event or the zoning regulations no longer permit it. DISCUSSION The attached draft ordinance addresses conditions of an interim use, termination of the use, application, public hearing, and notice and provides for an appeals process. The conditions imposed on an interim use permit require that the use conform to zoning requirements, meet conditional use standards, the date or event of the use termination can be identified with certainty, no additional costs will be incurred by the public to take the property after termination of the use and the owner provides a financial surety to cover costs for removing the interim use or structures upon expiration of the permit. The interim use permit shall be terminated when one of the following occurs first; the date on the permit has expired, a violation of the conditions under which the permit was issued has occurred, a change in the zoning regulations that makes the use nonconforming and the redevelopment of the use and property. An application, public hearing and public notice is required for an interim use permit and shall be reviewed before the Board of Adjustment (Planning Commission). Finally, an appeal of a decision by the Board of Adjustment to the City Council is provided for in the permit decision process. The City Attorney has drafted the ordinance and it is attached for the Planning Commission's review and comments. . . . REQUESTED ACTION Approve the amendment to Title 10, Chapter 8 of the Farmington City Code and forward the recommendation to the City Council. Respectfully Submitted, 1-p/ ~ r-;' ,//::C-L'--- 6F~' Lee Smick, AICP" Planning Coordinator . . . ORDINANCE NO. CITY OF FARMINGTON DAKOTA COUNTY, MINNESOTA AN ORDINANCE AMENDING TITLE 10, CHAPTER 8, OF THE FARMINGTON CITY CODE, THE FARMINGTON ZONING ORDINANCE, CONCERNING INTERIM USE PERMITS THE CITY COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF FARMINGTON ORDAINS: SECTION 1. Title 10, Chapter 8 of the Farmington City Code is arnended by adding a new Section 10-8-5A to read as follows: 10-8-5A: INTERIM USES: The Board of Adjustment shall have the power to authorize an interim use for the purpose of allowing a temporary use of property until a particular date, until the occurrence of a particular event or until zoning regulations no longer permit it. (A) The Board of Adjustment may grant permission and irnpose conditions for an interim use of property if: 1. the use conforms to the zoning regulations, performance standards and other requirements; 2. the use meets the standards of a conditional use permit set forth in Section 10-8-5 of the City Code; 3. the date or event that will terminate the use can be identified with certainty; 4. the use will not impose additional costs on the public if it is necessary for the public to take the property in the future; and 5. the use will be subject to, by agreement with the owner, any conditions that the City has deemed appropriate for permission of the use, including a condition that the owner will provide an appropriate financial surety to cover the cost of removing the interim use and any interim structures upon the expiration of the interim use permit. (B) Termination: An interim use permit shall terminate upon the occurrence of any of the following events, whichever occurs first: 1. the date stated in the permit, or 2. a violation of conditions under which the permit was issued; or . . . 3. a change in the City's zoning regulations which renders the use nonconforming as provided in Section 10-8-9; or 4. redevelopment of the use and property upon which it is located to a permitted use as allowed within the respective zoning districts. (C) Application, Public Hearing, Notice: The application, public hearing, and public notice requirements for interim use permits before the Board of Adjustments shall be the same as those for zoning amendments as provided for in Section 10-8-5 of the City Code. (D) Appeal: Upon appeal of a decision by the Board of Adjustment, the Zoning Officer shall set a public hearing, transmit the application directly to the City Council and rnail a notice to the Board of Adjustment and property owners adjacent to the subject property disregarding public rights of way. The City Council shall, within sixty (60) days of the public hearing, decide to affirm or overturn the decision of the Board of Adjustment with a four-fifths (4/5) vote of the City Council. SECTION 2. This ordinance shall be effective immediately upon its passage. ADOPTED this _ day of Farmington. , 19 _, by the City Council of the City of CITY OF FARMINGTON By: Gerald Ristow, Mayor ATTEST: City Administrator Published in the Farmington Independent the _ day of ,1999. . . . City of Farmington 325 Oak Street, Farmington, MN 55024 (651) 463-7111 Fax (651) 463-2591 www.ci.farmington.mn.us April 20, 1999 RE: 821 Third Street - Airlake Ford Interim Use Request Dear SirlMadam: This letter is to inform you of the status of the Airlake Ford Body Shop located at 821 Third Street. As you may know, the property was rezoned to B-4 Neighborhood Business on March I, 1999 by the City Council. The B-4 Neighborhood Business District's main purpose is to meet a wide range of needs of everyday living in neighborhoods that provide a variety of housing choices, that invite walking to gathering places, services and conveniences, and that are fully integrated into the larger community. The first step in the public hearing process will be the need to approve an interim use ordinance. This will be achieved through the ordinance approval process, which requires the Planning Commission and City Council's approval of the ordinance. If the ordinance is approved, it will be recognized as part of the City Code. Airlake Ford is requesting an interim use to allow the business to remain at 821 Third Street for a certain period of time. The Planning Commission will determine at a public .hearing the amount of time allowed if the interim use for Airlake Ford is approved along with any appropriate conditions that should be placed on Airl~e Ford's operation. The public hearing for an interim use for Airlake Ford will only be heard at the Planning Commission after the interim use is approved by the City Council. This meeting will be important for residents interested in voicing their concerns or comments to the Planning Commission on this topic. Therefore, in summarization, the following meetings will be held concerning the Airlake Ford Body Shop operation at 821 Third Street property: * Tuesday, April 27, 1999 - Public Hearing for Interim Use Ordinance - Planning Commission Review . * Monday, May 3, 1999 - Interim Use Ordinance - City Council Review * Tuesday, May 11, 1999 - Public Hearing for Interim Use for Airlake Ford at 821 Third Street - Planning Commission Review All of the above meetings will be held in the Council Chambers of City Hall at 7:00 PM. If you have any questions or comments concerning this information prior to or during the meeting dates, please call me at 463-1820. Sincerely, ~~ Lee Smick, AICP Planning Coordinator cc: JDS Properties, Inc. Dan Blanch, Airlake Ford Body Shop David L. Olson, Community Development Director John F. Erar, City Administrator . . . . . City of Farmington 325 Oak Street, Farmington, MN 55024 (651) 463~7111 Fax (651) 463-2591 www.ci.farmington.mn.us TO: City Planning Commission FROM: Lee Smick, AICP Planning Coordinator SUBJECT: Discussion Item - Variance for side yard setback - 5330 Upper 183rd Street DATE: April 27, 1999 INTRODUCTIONIDISCUSSION Mr. Jeff Schmicking, residing at 5330 Upper 183rd Street is seeking a one-foot variance from the side yard setback requirements of six feet to construct a carport to protect his boat and recreational vehicle from destructive weather. The owner's recreational vehicle received a considerable amount of storm damage during the summer of 1998 and he would like to protect his property from any further damage with the use of the proposed carport. As shown on the attached survey, the lot width is 68 feet and the length between the garage and the lot line to the east is 14 feet. With the proposed width of 9 feet for the carport, the structure will encroach upon the side yard setback by one-foot. The property is zoned R-4 and requires a 6-foot side yard setback and a minimum lot coverage of 30%. The carport is proposed to be 180 square feet generating a revised lot coverage of 21 %. Since the lot width and size exceeds the minimum requirements, a hardship for the property will need to be determined. Staff recommends that the owner reduce the carport to 8 feet in width or consider another location on the lot to alleviate the need for a variance. REQUESTED ACTION Review the proposal with the owner and determine if a variance request should be made to the Planning Commission. Respectfully Submitted, ~~' Lee Smick, AICP Planning Coordinator Blk ~__~DDITION i/t GRADE ELEVATION 1ICf",' ______u.. c:r 17. '] , ( .3'" , * ~ I 1(;0 tJ-l,' I'i' ;/ , - "D2A~ltOC. ~Ol TO SC.ALc - 3(" ?eo'tbS60 S 'Pl..l T /.....E;-U!.L- flow. 5 " FO'IU- Z9 # 6-A~f\G-e 6 f' , 2b F- ~ ,,,,' ~1\Je\IJAy "'8' _UrfER. JB3~ c5t. W. _ -/ ~ r"i/; . fRoF LP1?R/lZe f' ~-~ ~ ~~' pI' . . . . City of Farmington 325 Oak Street, Farmington, MN 55024 (651) 463-7111 Fax (651) 463-2591 www.d.farmington.mn.us TO: City Planning Commission FROM: Lee Smick, AICP Planning Coordinator SUBJECT: Discussion Item - Variance for side yard setback - 5330 Upper 183rd Street DATE: April 27, 1999 INTRODUCTION/DISCUSSION Mr. Jeff Schmicking, residing at 5330 Upper 183rd Street is seeking a one-foot variance from the side yard setback requirements of six feet to construct a carport to protect his boat and recreational vehicle from destructive weather. The owner's recreational vehicle received a considerable amount of storm damage during the summer of 1998 and he would like to protect his property from any further damage with the use of the proposed carport. As shown on the attached survey, the lot width is 68 feet and the length between the garage and the lot line to the east is 14 feet. With the proposed width of 9 feet for the carport, the structure will encroach upon the side yard setback by one-foot. The property is zoned R-4 and requires a 6-foot side yard setback and a minimum lot coverage of30%. The carport is proposed to be 180 square feet generating a revised lot coverage of 21 %. Evaluation of the Variance Regulations A) Literal enforcement of the ordinance would result in undue hardship with respect to the property. No hardship is witnessed because of the enforcement of this ordinance. The minimurn lot width for this subdivision is 60 feet and this particular lot allows for 8 additional feet. B) Such unnecessary hardship results because of circumstances unique to the property. No hardship is witnessed because of circumstances unique to the property. The minimum lot size for this subdivision is 6,000 square feet. The lot in question consists of 6,800 square feet. C) The hardship is caused by provisions of the ordinance and is not the result of actions of persons presently having an interest in the property. No hardship exists. . . . D) The variance observes the spirit and intent of the ordinance, produces substantial justice and is not contrary to the public interest. The intent of the ordinance is to provide a total of 12 feet for the side yard setback between the homes in this subdivision to allow for open space and a utility easement. The proposal reduces this intention by one foot. E) The variance does not permit a lower degree of flood protection than the flood protection elevation for the particular area or permit standards lower than required by State Law. Not applicable. Staff recommends denial of the variance and proposes that the owner provide an 8-foot wide carport or consider another location on the lot. REQUESTED ACTION Staff recommends denial of the variance and proposes that the owner provide an 8-foot wide carport or consider another location on the lot. Respectfully Submitted, Lee Smick, AICP Planning Coordinator . . . City of Farmington 325 Oak Street, Farmington, MN 55024 (651) 463-7111 Fax (651) 463-2591 www.d.farmington.mn.us TO: City Planning Commission Lee Smick, AICP ()p Planning Coordinator . FROM: SUBJECT: Amend Title 10, Chapter 9 - Wetland Protection Ordinance DATE: April 27, 1999 INTRODUCTION The revised wetland protection ordinance has been drafted and is attached to this document along with the current wetland ordinance. Revisions to the current ordinance were generated from the need to update the existing setback requirements between the wetland edge and a building and the need to categorize the City's wetlands through floral diversity and storm water susceptibility to determine the importance of the wetland to the City and its ecosystem. DISCUSSION One of the identifiable needs for revising the ordinance dealt with the setback requirements for buffer areas between the wetland edge and a building in the current ordinance (see attached). In Section 10-9-6 (C) 3, the existing ordinance requires that all buildings, except accessory buildings shall be setback at least one hundred feet from a wetland. This requirement was observed as too excessive, considering wetlands vary in environmental value. A more manageable requirement would categorize wetlands by functionality, value of the ecosystem and whether the wetland had been altered and would require various setback lengths depending on the type of wetland adjacent to a development. . Therefore, Bonestroo, Rosene, Anderlik & Associates performed a wetland field study in the summer of 1998 and the research was generated into a wetland classification report. The wetlands were classified into four separate categories depending on its floral diversity, storm water susceptibility and the alteration of the wetland. The four categories include Protect, Manage 1, Manage 2 and Utilize. Protect wetlands exist in an unaltered state and have special and unusual qualities that require a high level of protection. A buffer of between 75-100 feet is required to insure protection of the wetland. Manage 1 wetlands have moderate floral diversity and are slightly to moderately susceptible to storm water and snowmelt impacts. A buffer of between 30-50 feet is required for protection. . Manage 2 wetlands have been altered by human activities and is usually found within a park or greenway. A buffer of 20-25 feet is required to protect this wetland. Utilize wetlands have been significantly altered and degraded by urban or agricultural land uses and no buffer is required for this wetland. By classifying the wetlands within the community, the City has gained the opportunity of insuring a no net loss of wetlands. It can also prevent construction-related degradation through the location of the wetlands. The classification of wetlands will also assist developers in preparing developments that are sensitive to the natural environment, especially the large amount of wetland located in the City of Farmington. REQUESTED ACTION Staff recommends the review of the proposed wetland protection ordinance and requests comments from the Planning Commission concerning the ordinance. Respectfully Submitted, r-;r;; ~~9 v Lee Smick, AICP . Planning Coordinator . 10-9-1 . SECTION: 10-9- 1: 10-9- 2: 10-9- 3: 10-9- 4: 10-9- 5: 10-9- 6: 10-9- 7: 10-9- 8: 10-9- 9: 10-9-10: . 10-9-1 : 10-9-1 CHAPTER 9 WETLAND PROTECTION AND ZONING ORDINANCE Title, Council Findings, Policy, Purposes and Means Zoning Districts Scope Definitions Regulations Permits Dedication Credit Transfers Penalty Severability Variance and Appeal TITLE, COUNCIL FINDINGS, POLICY, PURPOSES AND MEANS: (A) This Chapter may be cited as the WETLANDS PROTECTION ORDINANCE. (8) The Council finds that wetlands within the City, as part of the ecosystem, are critical to the present and future health, safety and general welfare of the land, animals and people within the City, as well as within the Vermillion River Watershed District. Recognizing the obligation to protect natural resources from destruction and pollution of all kinds, the purposes of this Chapter are: 1092 . 1. To preserve wetlands in as natural a state as possible; 2. To regulate the use of areas adjacent to the wetlands in order to protect and enhance the natural function of the wetlands; 3. To provide for the protection of surface and ground water supplies from the danger of drought, pollution or mismanagement; City of Farmington 10-9-1 10-9-2 B) 4. To prevent property damage and the losses associated with flood conditions; and reduce erosion problems; . 5. To enhance and preserve the natural drainage ways; and 6. To reduce the need for piped storm water improvements. (C) It is the intent of the City to achieve the purposes of this Ordinance through the following means: 1. Adopt the U.S. Flood and Watershed National Wetland Inventory Map and the additional wetlands identified by the City on its Zoning Map for flood plains and conservation areas and all ponding areas shown on Figure 12 of the City of Farmington Storm Drainage Plan. 2. To implement effective erosion control techniques. 3. To apply PUD density transfers to development proposals in order to minimize ratios of impermeable surface to open space. 4. To establish means by which certain wetlands may be placed in the public domain for purposes of enhancement, preservation, protection and maintenance. . 5. To provide means by which an applicant and the City will routinely obtain advice and input from various governmental agencies and professionals in the field of fresh water biology, . hydrology and civil engineering. .0"", f .~ ~\....,..,W',.~ 6. To establish a system of permits and enforcement to bring about the intent of this Ordinance. 10-9-2: WETLAND ZONING DISTRICTS: This Chapter shall apply to wetland zoning districts which are specifically identified on maps identified in Section 10-9-1 (C), an official copy of which shall be on file in the office of the Zoning Administrator. Wetland zoning districts may not be eliminated unless it can be shown that the original designation is in error or that conditions have changed. When modifying or removing a wet- land zoning district, the Council shall use the criteria and methods estab- lished in the MFederal Manual for Identifying and Delineating Jurisdictional WetlandsM dated January, 1989, as amended from time to time. Pursuant to this Ordinance, the wetland zoning districts delineated in the referenced wetland zoning district map are hereby established as wetland zoning districts for the City. . 1092 City of Farmington l) 1 0-9-3 10-9-4 . 10-9-3: SCOPE: The wetland zoning district shall overlay the zoning districts established in Chapter 2 of this Title. All parcels of land lying in a wetland zoning district shall also lie in one or more of the established zoning districts. Within each wetland zoning district, all uses shall be permitted in accordance with the regulations for the underlying zoning district, provided, however, that such uses must also satisfy the additional requirements established in this Chapter. (Ord. 092-285, 9-6-92) 10-9-4: DEFINITIONS: ALTERATION: Any change, addition or modification. DEVELOPMENT: The construction, installation or alteration of any structure; the extraction, clearing or other alter- ation of land or terrestrial or aquatic vegetation; or the course, current or cross section of any water body or water course; or the subdivision of land into parcels pursuant to the Municipal Code. DIMENSIONAL REQUIREMENTS: A minimum/maximum setback yard requirement or structure height or size established in the Municipal Code. . DRAINAGE WAY: (') Any natural, altered or artificial water course which had definable beds and banks capable of conducting confined runoff from adjacent lands. Water course beds not clearly defined shall be delineated to include that area which would be inundated by runoff resulting from a twenty four (24) hour rainfall having a recurrence interval of once in five (5) years. (2) An altered water course is that which has been affected by man-made changes in straight- ening. deepening, narrowing or widening the original channel. (3) An artificial water course is that which has been artificially constructed by man where there was no previous natural water course. The lim- its of the water course bed are confined to ,hat area which would be inundated by runoff result- 495 . City o{ Farmington 1 0-9-4 . ENHANCE/ ENHANCEMENT: MANAGE: PERSON: STRUCTURE: WATER QUALITY: . WETLAND BUFFER AREA: WETLAND DRAINAGE DISTRICT: WETLAND ZONING DISTRICT: WETLANDS: . 495 , 0-9-4 ing from a twenty four (24) hour rainfall having a recurrence interval of once in five (5) years. To heighten the value of wetlands with respect to the purposes of this Chapter. To control the use of wetland resources in a manner which is consistent with the purposes of this Chapter. Management of wetlands includes conservation, maintenance and enhancement. Any individual, firm, corporation. partnership, association or other private or governmental entity. That which is built or constructed. an edifice or building of any kind, or any piece of work artifi- cially built up or composed of parts joined to- gether in some definite manner. The degree of excellence of water including, but not limited to. phosphorous concentrations. sediment load, and concentration of metals. (Ord. 092-285. 9-6-92) Areas abutting and within a range between sixteen and five-tenths feet (16.5') and twenty five feet (25'), including an overall average of twenty feet (20') measured horizontally, of a wetland. (Ord. 095-346. 2-6-95) The area tributary to the wetland zoning district as del.ineated on Figure 11 of the City Storm Drainage Plan. The areas delineated on the wetland zoning district map which includes the wetlands and wetland buffer areas. Those areas that are inundated or saturated by surface or groundwater at a frequency and du- ration sufficient to support. and that under nor- mal circumstances do support, hydrophytic vegetation, hydric soils and wetland hydrology I City of Farmington f , \,_,1 10-9-4 . 10-9-5: (A) . . 10-9-5 as delineated on the maps identified in Section 10-9-1 (C). (Ord. 092-285, 9-6-92) WETLAND ZONING DISTRICT REGULATIONS: No development shall be allowed within a wetland zoning district without first having obtained a wetland alteration permit from the City as provided in this Code. 495 City of Farmington 10-9-5 10-9-6 (B) Whenever a wetland or drainage way is located on lands that are being subdivided. the subdivider shall dedicate such wetland and/or drainage way to the public for purposes of improving, maintaining. or protecting the area for drainage. water quality enhancement, storm water ponding or other purposes expressed in this Chapter. . (C) The following regulations are required to control the density of development in wetland zoning districts. 1. Minimum lot size - 80,000 square feet 2. Minimum lot width - 200 feet as measured at the building setback line. 3. All buildings. other than accessory buildings. as defined in the Code, shall be set back at least one hundred feet (100') from wetland. 4. All accessory buildings shall be set back not less than the setback requirements set forth in the City Code. (0) Any building or structure situated on an existing parcel of record. as of the date of the original date of enactment of this Ordinance. that does not meet the requirements. of this Chapter shall be considered nonconforming and shall require a variance from the City Planning Commission to build or rebuild. A nonconforming parcel shall exist: . 1. Where the buildable area of a parcel is contained in a wetland. or 2, Where twenty percent (20%) of a parcel, or at least two thousand (2,000) square feet of the parcel, whichever is less, shall be contained within the wetland buffer zone. A nonconforming building shall exist: 1. Where it does not meet building or structure setback require- ments. 2. Where it does not meet floor elevation reqUirements. 10-9-6: PERMITS: (A) The following activities in or upon a wetland zoning district shall require a wetland alteration permit similar to the City's grading permit: 1092 . City of Farmington 1 0-9-6 10-9-6 A) 1. The digging, dredging, filling, draining, or any altering or removing of any material from a wetland. . 2. The alteration of vegetation within the wetland or the destruction of vegetation within the wetland zoning district except to abate a public nuisance. 3. The construction, alteration or removal of any structure. 4. The altering of any embankment or ponding area, or the changing of the flow of water or ponding capacity. 5. The storing of materials which would interfere with the flow of water and/or ponding capacity. 6. Disposing of waste materials including, but not limited to, demolition debris and yard waste. 7. Installation or maintenance of essential services. (B) In consideration of an application for the issuance of a wetland alteration permit. the City may require that the applicant furnish and supply such information as required by the City Engineer. In acting upon a wetland alteration permit application, the City shall consider all relevant factors specified in other sections of this Chapter, including: . 1. The relationship of the proposed use to the comprehensive plan and the impact of the proposed use on the wetlands in the surrounding area. 2. The impact of the proposed wetland alteration on the surface water storage, fish and wildlife habitat, and water quality enhancement values of the wetland in accordance with the City's storm drainage plan. (C) A minimum alteration of a wetland may be allowed when necessary for the use of property but only when it will not have a substantially adverse effect, as determined by the City, upon the ecological and hydrological characteristics of the wetland. However, in no case shall the restrictions set out below be exceeded in any alteration. 1. Any alteration shall not cause a reduction in the flood storage capacity of the wetland. Flood storage capacity shall be determined 1092 . City of Farmington Ii ' ,-} 1 0-9-6 10-9-6 . C,1) by analysis of the runoff from the entire developed wetland drainage district resulting from both the five (5) year and one hundred (100) year frequency storms as outlined in the City's storm drainage plan. 2. An alteration shall not reduce the existing water quality enhance- ment value of wetland under conditions of ultimate development, during both the five (5) year and one hundred (100) year frequency storms. Water quality enhancement value of a wetland shall be determined using methods approved by the City. 3. Any alteration shall not reduce the existing wildlife habitat value of a wetland as measured using methods approved by the City. 4. Only fill substantially free of chemical pollutants and wastes, as determined by the City, may be used. 5. Alterations shall be carried out so as to minimize the impact on vegetation, except to abate a public nuisance. 6. Alterations shall not adversely affect the water flow characteristics within the wetland as determined by the City. 7. The size of the altered area shall be limited to the minimum required for the proposed action. . 8. Work in the wetland shall not be performed during the breeding season of waterfowl or upland game, or fish spawning season. 9. No part of any sewage disposal system requiring on-land or in- ground disposal of waste shall be located closer to the wetland than 100 feet. All on-land or in-ground sewage disposal systems shall meet criteria set out in Minnesota Rule 6, MCAR 4.8040 "Individual Sewage Treatment System Standard". 10. Waste which would normally be disposed of at a solid or hazardous waste disposal site or which would normally be discharged into a sewage disposal system or sewer shall not be directly or indirectly discharged to a wetland. 11. Construction erosion control measures and retention facilities shall be designed to limit soil loss from the development site to not more than five (5) tons per acre per year. Plans and supporting documentation for such measures and facilities shall be developed and approved by the City prior to commencement of construction. 1092 . City of Farmington 10-9-6 10-9-6 C) 12. The applicant shall be required to demonstrate that after the development is completed, the conditions on the site will be stabilized such that the yearly soil loss from the site will not be greater than five-tenths (0.5) tons per acre per year. . 13. Sediment and soil loss shall be determined utilizing the "Universal Soil Loss Equation" as defined by the U.S. Department of Agriculture Soil Conservation Service Technical Field Guide as amended from time to time as provided for Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District. 14. Stormwater runoff from a development may be directed to the wetland when in conformance with the surface water management plan and only when substantially, as determined by the City, to be free of sediment, debris and chemical pollutants, and only at rates which will not substantially disturb vegetation or increase turbidity. . 15. The proposed action shall not cause storm water runoff from the development to take place at a rate which would exceed the rate or volume of runoff as anticipated by the City's storm drainage plan. 16. The quality of water infiltrated to the water table or aquifer shall remain substantially unchanged by the alteration of the site. 17. The lowest floor elevation of buildings permitted in a wetland zoning district shall be at least one foot above the elevation of the one hundred (100) year flood elevation as determined by the City Engineer. 18. No alteration shall be allowed which will endanger the health, safety or welfare of persons, or which may result in unusual road maintenance costs or utility line breakage due to soil limitations, including high frost action. 19. Except to abate a public nuisance, removal of vegetation within a wetland zoning district shall be permitted only when reasonably required for the placement of structures and use of property. It is the City's intent to promote the preservation of existing wetland vegetation. (D) Where it is found that avoidance of direct impact on the wetland is not feasible, functional values and acreage lost as a result shall be replaced according to the following criteria: 1. Replacement of wetlands shall be created in upland areas at a rate not less than two (2) times the area of the original wetland. . 1092 City of Farmington l ~ ,_1 10-9-6 D) . (E) . . 1 0-9-6 2. Replacement of wetlands shall be of equal or greater public value in terms of water retention, water quality enhancement, wildlife habi- tat, recreation, aesthetic quality and educational value. Water quality enhancement value of the wetland will be measured according to a model acceptable to the City. Water retention, wildlife habitat and aesthetic value will be measured according to "The Minnesota Wet- land Evaluation Methodology for the North Central United States", prepared by the Corps of Engineers in conjunction with the Minne- sota Environmental Quality Board, September 1988 and subsequent revisions. 3. Replacement wetlands shall be located within the City and prefer- ence shall be given to those areas within a subwatershed. 4. Replacement wetland shall be completed and approved by the City before alteration of the existing wetland. If this criteria cannot be met, the applicant shall post a performance bond equivalent to at least one hundred fifty percent (150%) of the estimated construction cost of the replacement wetland, as determined by the City. The City may, at its discretion, waive this requirement if it finds that sufficient security has been posted by the property owner in compliance with the requirements of other regulating jurisdictions. Additional bonding may be required based upon conditions imposed on the applicant. Conditions Imposed on Applicant. 1. The permit application shall be submitted to the City. The City shall process the permit application according to the procedures specified for the processing of conditional use permits. Upon approv- al of the application for the permit, the City may establish such terms and conditions, in addition to those specifically cited in this Chapter as it deems necessary to protect the public health, safety and welfare, including the posting of sufficient surety to guarantee conformance with the conditions of the permit and all laws regulating the activity. 2. A wetland alteration permit may be processed in conjunction with any other application for use permit approval that may be required under other provisions of the Municipal Code. 3. In addition to normal requirements of the permit process, written notice of the permit application, along with applicable documents, shall be submitted to the Dakota County Soil and Water Conserva- tion District, Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, Vermillion 1092 City of Farmington 1 0-9-6 1 0-9-6 . E,3) River Watershed Management Organization, and the Board of Soil and Water Resources and the Corps of Engineers for review and comment. 4. Within the wetlands zoning district. no land shall be used except for one or more of the following uses: (a) Residential lawns, gardens, pastures, fences and docks, provided that no change is made to the ground elevation; (b) Wildlife and nature preserves; (c) Pervious hiking, skiing and horseback riding trails; (d) Public and private flood control structures, ponding and drainage facilities and associated accessory appurtenances; or (e) Environmental monitoring or control facilities, including those related to water quality and wildlife regulation. 5. Within the wetlands zoning district, the following uses may be developed only through the conditional use process: (a) Outdoor nurseries; . (b) Private and public recreational uses, including golf courses, ballfields, playfields, picnic grounds and bike trails; (c) Public utilities, including necessary structures; (d) Other nonstructural facilities similar to those permitted by this Section which also meet the intent of this Section, as determined by the City. No conditional use permit shall be granted except in circumstances in which its approval will not have an adverse impact upon the wetlands and surrounding properties, the intent of this Ordinance or the precepts of the Comprehensive Plan. Granting of a conditional use permit shall be conditioned upon approval of the request by all other appropriate governmental agencies as listed in subsection (E)3 of this Section. (F) The following drawings and exhibits shall be required with a permit application: 1092 . City of Farmington l) 1 0-9-6 F) . . . 1 0-':'9-6 1. The name and address of the subdivider, developer and owner or any other property of interest. 2. A legal description of the proposed site with a map showing its location with indications of private access roads. existing or proposed public roadways within and surrounding the development site. 3. A full and adequate description of all phases of the operation and/or proposed physical changes. 4. A soil survey map of the proposed development site. 5. (a) A topographic map of the development area with contour information at two foot (2') intervals or spot elevations at two hundred foot (200') intervals and at a horizontal scale of one inch to one hundred feet (1" = 100') or larger. (b) A wetlands delineation map and description of wetlands on the proposed site showing the location and type of wetlands within the site and to a distance of five hundred feet (500') surrounding the site or to the wetland drainage district boundary, whichever is shorter. 6. A detailed site plan of the proposal showing proposed drainage, grading, landscaping and erosion control. 7. A site design map showing the location of existing and future man-made features within the site and to a distance of five hundred feet (500') surrounding the site or to the wetland drainage district boundary. whichever is shorter. 8. Information on existing drainage and vegetation of all lands within the site and to a distance of five hundred feet (500') surrounding the site or to the wetland drainage district boundary, whichever is shorter. 9. The time period for commencement and completion of the devel- opment, including time for staging of development. if applicable. 10. Design specifications and plans for all sediment and erosion control measures as well as all grading and drainage appurtenances and practices. 1092 City of Farmington F) . . . 1 0-9-6 1 0-9-6 11 . Engineering data related to computations of existing and proposed hydrology, water quality, hydraulics and soil loss. ('- " ~, 12. Such additional information as necessary to evaluate the permit application. 13. Photographs of the affected property before the proposed alteration occurs and an additional set of photographs six (6) months after the alteration has been completed. (G) An applicant shall begin the work authorized by the permit within ninety (90) days from the date of issuance of the permit unless otherwise set forth in the permit. The applicant shall complete the work authorized by the permit within the time limit specified in the permit, which shall in no event exceed more than twelve (12) months from the date of issuance unless such time limit is extended by the City Council. The applicant shall notify the City at least forty eight (48) hours prior to the commencement of the work. Should the work not be commenced as specified herein, the permit shall become void. (H) The issuing authority for wetland alteration permits shall be as set forth hereafter: 1. Administrative Issuing Authority: The City Engineer/Public Works Director or his designee have the authority to issue wetland alteration permits which meet the standards of this Chapter, if: (a) The permit requests repair or maintenance of any lawful use of land existing on the date of adoption of this Ordinance; (b) Alterations within the wetland buffer zone do not extend into or impact the adjacent wetland; (c) The permit requests public and/or private utility work on existing facilities; and 2. For the following work within the wetland buffer zone, but outside of the wetland, not having adverse impacts upon the wetlands: (a) Installation and maintenance of fences; (b) Landscaping not including impervious surfaces; (c) Detached garages and accessory buildings; 1092 l,) City of Farmington 10-9-6 . 10-9-6 (d) Grading which does not adversely alter storm water storage capacity, storm water flow direction or runoff intensity: (e) Temporary structures not requiring permanent foundations or pads for support. The Planning Commission may issue permits which meet the standards in this Chapter, and are beyond the scope of the administrative approval above: which have been reviewed by City staff and referred to the Planning Commission. (I) Exceptions; Permit: . (J) . 1. Emergencies: Upon the declaration of an emergency by the City, emergency work necessary to preserve life or property shall be permitted in a wetland zoning district. 2. Repairs: Upon application and approval by the City Council. a person may repair or maintain any lawful use of land existing on the date of adoption of this Chapter. 3. NotwtthstanGing any oU,er provision of this Code to the contrary. the City may develop a Municipally owned recreation or park facility on City-owned lands which will involve the development with a wetlands zoning district as part of an integrated plan, comprising not less than seventy five (75) acres, where such development would reasonably conserve, preserve and enhance the environment by providing facilities that would protect the public health, safety and welfare. (Ord. 092-285, 9-6-92) Fees: A schedule of fees for the investigation. review and approval of applications under this Chapter and enforcement of the conditions of a permit issued under the provisions of this Chapter shall be determined by resolution of the City Council, which may, from time to time, change such schedule. Prior to the approval and issuance of any permit under this Chapter, such fees shall be paid and deposited to the credit of the General Fund. (K) Performance Bond or Irrevocable Letter of Credit: Prior to the approval and issuance of a permit, there shall be executed by the operator and submitted to the City Administrator an agreement to construct such required improvements. to dedicate such property or easements, if any, to the City and to comply with such conditions as may have been established by the City Council. Such agreement 493 City o{ Farmington 1 0-9-6 10-9-10 . shall be accompanied by a bond with surety or condition acceptable to the City Administrator in the amount of the established costs of complying with the agreement. The aforesaid agreement. bond or letter of credit shall be provided for guaranteeing completion and compliance with the conditions set forth in the permit within the time to be approved by the City Council. The adequacy. conditions and acceptability of any bond or letter of credit shall be reviewed annually by the City. The City may direct the amount of the bond or letter of credit be increased to reflect inflation or changed conditions. (Ord. 093-295. 1-4-93) ., . 10-9-7: DEDICATION CREDIT TRANSFERS: ,When land to be developed includes wetlands, the developer thereof may receive a credit for the undevelopable portion of said wetland toward the dedication of storm water management ponds and related drainage areas for the trunk storm sewer system, as outlined in Figure 12 of the City's storm drainage plan. . 1 0-9-8: PENALTY: Any person who violates the provIsions of this Chapter shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be punishable as defined by law. Each day during which said violation exists is a separate offense. Any violation of this Chapter is a public nuisance and may be enjoined by civil action. Costs of any civil enforcement shall be assessed against the property so enjoined. Any person who. in violation of this Chapter, alters, changes or modifies any wetlands shall restore such wetlands to their original condition. 10-9-9: SEVERABILITY: If any part of this Chapter is held to be unconstitutional or otherwise illegal, the remainder of this Chapter shall be deemed and held to be valid and remain in force and effect as if such portion had not been included herein. If this Chapter or any provision herein is held to be inapplicable to any person. property or work such hold shall not affect the applicability hereof to any other person's property or work. 10-9-10: VARIANCE AND APPEAL: An application for variance or appeal to the Council shall be processed according to Chapter 8 of Title 10. 493 . City of Farmington L) 10-9-10 10-9-10 . No permit or variance shall be issued unless the applicant. in support of his a.pplication. shall submit engineering data. surveys. site plans and other information as the City may require in order to determine the effects of such development o.n the affected land and water areas. (Ord. 092-285. 9-6-92) . J93 . City of rarmlngton , . SECTIONS: 10-9- I: 10-9- 2: 10-9- 3: 10-9- 4: 10-9- 5: 10-9- 6: 10-9- 7: 10-9- 8: 10-9- 9: 10-9-10: 10-9-11 : 10-9-12: 10-9-1 : . ~\- \-[1-99 CHAPTER 9 WETLANDS PROTECTION ORDINANCE Council Findings and Intent Purposes and Implementation Definitions General Provisions General Standards No Net Loss and Wetland Alteration Wetland Buffer Areas Wetland and Buffer Area Mitigation Application and Issuance of Permit Exemptions Variances Previous Ordinance COUNCIL FINDINGS AND INTENT (A) The Council finds that wetlands serve a variety of beneficial functions. Wetlands maintain water quality, reduce flooding and erosion, provide food and habitat for wildlife, provide open space, and are an integral part of the City's environment. Wetlands are important physical, educational, ecological, aesthetic, recreational and economic assets to the City. They are critical to the City's storm water management and other aspects of health, safety and general welfare. Regulating wetlands and the land uses around them are therefore in "the public interest. (B) The City has also found that wetlands vary significantly in the degree that they have been altered. Wetlands within the City exhibit great variations in their plant diversity, quality of wildlife and fishery habitat, degree of fluctuation in response to storms, the extent to which their shorelines have been altered or eroded, and their relative value in protecting water quality. Therefore, the City has determined that it is necessary and beneficial to classify wetlands based upon their functions and values. The City has also found that it is in the best interest of the general health and welfare of the City to achieve no net loss of wetlands within the community. (C) The City recognizes that a substantial amount of wetland degradation results from sedimentation and nutrient loading related to construction projects. Therefore, the City finds it necessary to require measures to prevent such construction-related degradation. . I . (D) In addition to having regulations that affect the physical impacts within wetland areas, the City also finds that it is necessary to regulate the use of lands . surrounding wetlands. Buffer areas (as defined in this Ordinance), are necessary and beneficial to maintaining the health and functions of wetlands. These areas of land surrounding wetlands protect their shorelines from erosion, while filtering sediment, chemicals and other nutrients before storm water discharges into the wetland. Buffer areas are also beneficial in providing habitat for wildlife. (E) This ordinance incorporates by reference the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act of 1991 {Minn. Stat. 1030.221 et seq. (herein after referred to as the WCA)} and any future amendments adopted by the legislature. The City has determined that some activities are exempted from the provisions of Minnesota Statutes 1030.2241. Any activities exempted from the provisions of the WCA are also exempted from the requirements of this Ordinance, insofar as they relate to the WCA. All wetlands, including those governed by the Department of Natural Resources, are covered by the other provisions of this Ordinance. Also, there are circumstances under which the strict enforcement of these regulations may be unreasonable and in circumstances that meet the criteria established in Section 10- 9-10 and 10-9-11 of this code, departures from the strict application of these standards may be permitted. 10-9-2 PURPOSE AND IMPLEMENT A TION . (A) Through the adoption and enforcement of this Ordinance, the City shall promote the general health, safety, and welfare of its residents by both conserving and protecting wetlands, and requiring sound management practices and mitigation when development occurs in the vicinity of wetlands. Through the implementation of this subdivision, the City seeks to accomplish the following purposes: 1. To satisfy the requirements of the WCA as it may be amended and, thereby, achieve no net loss of wetlands within the City;--- 2. To balance the needs to preserve and protect natural resources and systems with both the rights of private property owners and the need to support the efficient use of developable land within the City; 3. To preserve the natural character of the landscape through the maintenance of wetland ecosystems; 4. To promote water quality by maintaining the ability of wetlands to recharge ground water and receive the discharge of ground water, to retain sediment and toxicants and filter and strip nutrients from surface water . 2 . runoff before it discharges into community lakes and streams, thus avoiding the contamination and eutrophication of these water features; 5. To provide wildlife habitat and thereby support the maintenance of diversity of both plant and animal species within the City. 6. To prevent property damage and the losses associated with flood conditions, and reduce erosion problems; 7. To enhance and preserve the natural drainage ways; and 8. To reduce the need for piped storm water improvements. (B) To accomplish these purposes, the City will: 1. Conduct a functions and values inventory of all wetlands within the City; 2. Develop a Wetland Management Classification System within the City and classify the City's wetlands based upon their relative values related to floral diversity/integrity, wildlife habitat, water quality protection, fishery habitat, and aesthetic benefits. 3. Prepare, maintain, and periodically update a comprehensive set of official maps identifying the location and classification of all wetlands within the City. . 4. Establish wetland regulations that are coordinated with flood plain and shore land protection regulations. 5. Require sound management practices to protect, conserve, maintain, enhance, and improve the quality of wetlands within the community. 6. Enforce standards for the alteration of wetlands when alteration is allowed, including standards and procedures for the mitigation of the loss of wetland areas and their functions and values, when alteration or destruction occurs. 7. Obtain protective easements over or acquire fee title to wetlands as appropriate. 8. Develop and maintain a program to educate the public about the numerous benefits and features that wetlands provide and the adverse effects of improperly managed urban development on wetlands. . 3 1O~9-3: DEFINITIONS ALTERATION: AVERAGE BUFFER WIDTH: BUFFER AREA: BUILDING SETBACK: COMMUNITY: DIMENTIONAL REQUIREMENTS: DRAINAGE WAY: . Human-induced actions that adversely impact the existing condition of a wetland or wetland buffer area, including, grading, filling, dredging, dumping; cutting, pruning, topping, and clearing native vegetation; and discharging pollutants (except stormwater). Alteration does not include walking, passive recreation, fishing, farming, planting that enhances native vegetation, or other similar activities allowed under the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act.. The average width of a buffer area within a single development, lot or phase. An unmown, undisturbed, or re-established vegetated area adjacent to a wetland that is an integral part of protecting the wetland ecosystem through filtering pollutants and providing adjacent habitat. The distance between the building line and the property line or, in the case of a shoreland yard, the ordinary high water level, or in the case of a lot containing all ora portion of a wetland, the nearest edge of the wetland buffer area. . In reference to plants, an interacting assemblage of plant populations sharing a given habitat. A minimum/maximum setback yard requirement or structure height or size established in the Municipal Code. (1 ) Any natural, altered or artificial water course which has definable beds and banks capable of conducting confined runoff from adjacent lands. Water course beds not clearly defined shall be delineated to include that area which . would be inundated by runoff resulting from a twenty four (24) hour rainfall having a recurrence interval of once in five (5) years. (2) An altered water course is that which has been affected by man-made changes in straightening, deepening, narrowing or widening the original channel. (3) An artificial water course is that which has been artificially constructed by man where there was no previous . 4 . natural water course. The limits of the water course bed are confined to that area which would be inundated by runoff resulting from a twenty four (24) hour rainfall having a recurrence interval of once in five (5) years. ENHANCE: To heighten the value of wetlands or wetland buffers with respect to the purposes of this Chapter. FUNCTIONAL VALUE INDEX: A number value from 0.1 to 1.0 given to a functional value for a wetland. MANAGE: To control the use of wetland resources consistent with the purposes of this Chapter. Management of wetlands includes conservation, maintenance and enhancement. STRUCTURE: That which is built or constructed, an edifice or building of any kind, or any piece of work artificially built up or composed of parts jointed together in some definite manner. . VEGETATION, NATIVE: The pre-settlement group of plant species native to the the local region, that were not introduced as a result of European settlement or subsequent human introduction. WETLAND: Lands transitional between terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, where the water table is usually at or near the surface or the land is covered by shallow water. Consistent with the WCA, wetlands are to be identified and delineated using the methodology set forth in the Federal Manual for Identifying and Delineating Jurisdictional Wetlands (Interagency Task Force on Wetland Delineation, 1987). For purposes ofthis definition, wetlands must have three of the following attributes: (1) A predominance of hydric soils; (2) Inundated or saturated by surface or ground water at a frequency and duration sufficient to support a prevalence of hydrophytic vegetation typically adapted for life in saturated soil conditions; (3) Under normal circumstances support a prevalence of such vegetation. . This definition does not include wetlands created from uplands either: (1) for storm water storage and management purposes or (2) by actions not intended to create the 5 wetland and approved, permitted, funded or overseen by a public entity. . WETLAND EDGE: The line delineating the outer edge of a wetland. This line shall be established by using the 1987 Corps of Eneineers (COE) Wetlands Delineation Manual (Environmental Laboratory, 1987). WETLAND FUNCTIONS: The natural processes performed by wetlands, including functions that are important in providing wildlife and fishery habitat, facilitating food chain production, providing habitat for nesting, rearing, and resting sites for aquatic, terrestrial or avian species, maintaining the availability and quality of water, such as purifying water, acting as a recharge and discharge area for groundwater aquifers and moderating surface water and storm water flows, improving storm water quality, providing aesthetic benefits, and well as performing other functions, including but not limited to those set out in U.S. Army Corps of Engineers regulations at 33 C.F.R. Section 320.4(b )(2)(1988). (NOTE: in the definitions that follow, the methodolOgy and criteria for evaluation of floral diversity/integrity are based on those detailed in the Minnesota Routine Assessment Method/or Evaluating Wetland Functions (Version 1.0), Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources, September, 1998; and criteria for susceptibility to storm water impacts are based on recommendations in Storm Water and Wetlands: Planning and Evaluation Guidelines for Addressing Potential Impacts of Urban Storm Water and Snow-Melt Runoff on Wetlands, Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, June, 1997.) . The functional value for Floral DiversitylIntegrity determined from MnRAM is based on dividing wetlands into wetland communities (i.e. wet meadow, shallow marsh, flood plain forest, etc.) and providing a ranking of Exceptional Quality, High Quality, Moderate Quality and Low Quality to all major wetland communities within a wetland. The major communities of a wetland also determine storm Water Susceptibility. The Storm Water and Wetland: Planning and Evaluation Guidelines for Addressing Storm . 6 Water and Snow-Melt Runoff Impacts to Wetlands evaluates wetland communities, and places wetland communities into the categories of Highly Susceptible, Moderately Susceptible, Slightly Susceptible, and Least Susceptible to storm water and snow-melt runoff. . The wetland inventory conducted as part of this ordinance placed the wetland communities of the wetlands into the categories for Floral Diversity/Integrity and Storm Water and Snow-melt susceptibility. A Functional Value Index, which is based on a scale of 0.1 to 1.0 with 0.1 being the lowest ranking and 1.0 being the highest ranking, was provided for each category as shown below. . Functional Value Index 1.0 0.75 0.5 0.1 Functional Value Index 1.0 0.75 0.5 0.1 Each wetland was given a ranking based on the functional value for each of the major wetland communities or community within the wetland. The overall ranking for the wetland is based on a weighted average that incorporates the area of the wetland community (%) and the Functional Value Index (0.0 - 1.0) for the wetland community within the wetland. All wetlands located within a park or Greenway Corridor (as shown on the Wetland Management Plan Map) will not have a Wetland Management Classification lower than Manage 2. The overall wetland functional index range for Floral DiversitylIntegrity and Storm Water Susceptibility and the associated Wetland Management Classifications are shown in Table 1. Table 2 shows how final Wetland . 7 Management Classifications were determined for an example wetland. . Table 1. Overall Wetland Functional Index Range for Floral Diversity/Integrity and Storm Water Susceptibility and the associated Wetland Management Classification. Floral Diversity /Integrity & Storm Water Susceptibility Functional Index Ran e 1.0 - 0.60 0.59 - 0.5 0.49 - 0.3 Less then 0.3 Wetland Management Classification Protect Mana e 1 Mana e 2 Utilize Table 2. Example Showing how Final Wetland Management Classifications were Determined. Wetland Community Storm Water %community Storm Water %community * Storm Water 10 Susceptibility Susceptibility Index Susceptibility Value AV-W7.2 Deep Marsh Slightly 0.3 0.5 0.15 A V-W7.2 Shallow Marsh Moderately 0.6 0.75 0.45 A V-W7.2 Reed Canary Least 0.1 0.1 0.01 Mono e Total: 0.61 WetIand Community Floral %comrnunity Floral %community * Floral 10 Diversity/ Diversity/Integrity Diversity/Integrity Value Integrity Index AV-W7.2 Deep Marsh Moderate 0.3 0.75 L 0.225 A V-W7.2 Shallow Marsh Moderate 0.6 0.75 0.45 AV-W7.2 Reed Canary Low 0.1 0.10 0.01 Monotype Total: 0.685 Storm Water Susceptibility has a functional index of 0.61 and Floral Diversity/Integrity has a functional index of 0.685. They fall within the range of protect (See Table 1). WETLANDS, PROTECT: These wetlands exist in a largely unaltered state and have special and unusual qualities that call for a high level of protection. These wetlands may provide habitat . for rare, threatened and/or endangered plant and 8 . animal species present; and/or have moderate to exceptional floral diversity/integrity and moderate to high susceptibility to storm water and snowmelt; and/or are within the designated trout-stream corridor identified on the City's Wetland and Waterbody Classification Map. WETLANDS, MANAGE 1: These wetlands have plant communities that are in a largely unaltered state. The vegetative communities of these wetlands are characterized by moderate floral diversity and are slightly to moderately susceptible to storm-water and snowmelt impacts. WETLANDS, MANAGE 2: These wetlands have usually been altered by human activities. These wetlands have low to medium floral diversity and wildlife habitat components. These wetlands are slightly susceptible to impacts from storm water. In addition, if a wetland has characteristics of a utilized basin but is located within a park or greenway corridor (as shown on the Wetland and Waterbody Classification Map) it was put in this management classification. . WETLANDS, UTILIZE: These wetlands have been significantly altered and degraded through past disturbances. They may be isolated, with altered hydrology from urban or agricultural land uses. These wetlands have low floral diversity, and for the most part are not connected to other ecosystems. These wetlands are the least susceptible to impacts from storm water. 10-9-4 GENERAL PROVISIONS (A) This ordinance shall apply to any applicant for a subdivision approval, or a grading permit to allow wetland-disturbing activities after (date of ordinance). No subdivision approval, or grading permit to allow wetland disturbing activities shall be issued until approval of the wetland replacement plan application or a certificate of exemption has been obtained in strict conformance with the provisions of this chapter and the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act. This chapter applies to all land, public or private, located within the City of Farmington. (B) When any provision of any ordinance conflicts with this chapter, that which provides more protection to the wetland or wetland buffer shall apply unless specifically provided otherwise in this chapter; provided, such exceptions shall not . conflict with state regulations, such as the State Shoreland Program. 9 (C). This ordinance shall apply to all land containing wetlands and land within the setback and buffer areas required by this ordinance. Wetlands shall be subject to the requirements established herein, as well as restrictions and requirements established by other applicable Federal, State, and City ordinances and regulations. These wetland protection regulations shall not be construed to allow anything otherwise prohibited in the zoning district where the wetland area is located. . (D) A wetland is land that meets the definition of "wetlands" set forth in this Ordinance. Wetlands have been identified and the Wetland Management Classification as established by the officially adopted City maps shall be prima facie evidence of the location and classification of a wetland. The official maps shall be developed and maintained by the Community Development Department. The presence or absence of a wetland on the official maps does not represent a definitive determination as to whether a jurisdictional wetland is or is not present. Wetlands that are identified during site specific delineation activities but do not appear on the official wetland maps are still subject to the provisions of the Ordinance. It will be the responsibility of an applicant to delineate the exact wetland boundary. All delineations must be reviewed by the Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District. The Dakota County Soil and Water Conservation District will make recommendations to the City. The City Council has delegated delineation review authority to its staff. The City will classify wetlands based on the criteria discussed under Section 10-9-3. The applicant shall get final delineation approval from the City. . Applicants seeking a change in wetland classification must submit to the city a completed MnRAM Version 1.0 form. The Technical Evaluation Panel will review the request for change. The Technical Evaluation Panel will make a recommendation to the City regarding the change in classification. (E) This subdivision is applicable to wetlands that are determined to be Jurisdictional Wetlands, based on delineation procedures of the Wetland Conservation Act. (F) This subdivision establishes four wetland classifications as defined in the Definitions section of this Ordinance: Protect, Manage 1, Manage 2, and Utilize. 10-9-5: GENERAL STANDARDS (A) The following standards apply to all lands within and/or abutting a wetland: 1. Septic and soil absorption systems must be setback a minimum of 100 feet from the City approved boundary of the wetland. . 10 . 2. Building elevation standards shall conform with the standards of the Farmington Surface Water Management Plan. 3. Structures intended to provide access across a wetland shall be prohibited unless a permit is obtained in conformance with State Regulations. 4. The MPCA's Best Management Practices shall be followed to avoid erosion and sedimentation during construction processes. 10-9-6: NO NET LOSS AND WETLAND AL TERA TION (A) It is the intent of this ordinance to avoid the alteration and destruction of wetlands. When wetlands or their buffer areas are altered or destroyed, mitigation must be provided to recreate the functions and values of the lost wetland and/or buffer area. To achieve no net loss of wetland, except as authorized by a wetland alteration permit issued by the City, a person may not drain, grade, fill, remove healthy native vegetation, or otherwise alter or destroy a wetland of any size or type. Any alteration to a wetland, permitted by a wetland alteration permit, must be fully mitigated so that there is no net loss of wetlands. . (B) Where it is found that avoidance of direct impact on a wetland is not feasible, wetland replacement shall be done as per agency (Corps of Engineers, Department of Natural Resources, and City [WeAl standards.. Replacement wetlands shall be located within the City, if feasible; if a suitable location is not available preference shall be given to areas within the major watershed where the alteration is occurring. If no location is available within the watershed area, a replacement location should be found within Dakota County. (C) Drainage, grading, filling, removal of healthy native vegetation, or otherwise altering or destroying a wetland of any size or type requires a wetland alteration permit. Other activities in a wetland requiring a wetland alteration perinit include, but are not limited to 1. Construction of new streets and utilities 2. Installation of boardwalks. (D) When a wetland alteration permit is issued allowing filling in a wetland, the following standards shall be followed: 1. Filling must be consistent with the Farmington Surface Water Management Plan. . 11 2. Filling in wetland areas will be required to be mitigated in accordance with the requirements of this Ordinance and the Wetland Conservation Act. . (E) When a wetland alteration permit is issued allowing dredging, excavating or grading in a wetland, the following standards shall be followed: 1. The dredging will not have a net adverse effect on the ecological and hydrological characteristics of the wetland. 2. It shall be located as to minimize the impact on vegetation. Exceptions may be allowed in basins dominated by invasive exotic species such as Reed canary grass (Phalaris arundinacea). 3. It shall not adversely change water flow. 4. The size of the dredged area shall be limited to the minimum required for the proposed action. 5. Disposal of the dredged material is prohibited within the wetland area unless it is part of an approved wetland replacement plan. 6. Disposal of any dredged material shall include proper erosion control and nutrient retention measures. . 7. Dredging in any wetland area is prohibited during waterfowl breeding season or fish spawning season, unless it is determined by the city that the wetland is not used for waterfowl breeding or fish spawning. 8. Dredging in wetland areas will be required to be mitigated in accordance with requirements of this Ordinance if the activity results in a loss of functional wetland. Dredging to create water quality improvement basins may be allowed by the city where reasonable alternatives are not available or where the wetland is of low quality and designated for this purpose by the Farmington Surface Water Management Plan. (F) STORMW A TER RUNOFF When a wetland alteration permit is issued allowing storm water runoff to discharge directly into a wetland, the permit will include requirements established by the Farmington Surface Water Management Plan. These requirements establish . 12 . . . a maximum High Water Level bounce and allowable phosphorus loadings based on the City's wetland classification system. (0) An applicant for a wetland alteration permit shall adhere to the following principles in descending order of priority: 1. Avoid the direct or indirect impact of the activity that may destroy or diminish the wetland: 2. Minimize the impact by limiting the degree or magnitude of the wetland activity and its implementation: 3. Rectify the impact by repairing, rehabilitating, or restoring the affected wetland function and its implementation: 4. Reduce or eliminate the impact over time by preservation and maintenance operations during the life of the activity; and 5. Replacing unavoidable impacts to the wetlands by restoring or creating substitute wetland areas having equal or greater public value as set forth in Minnesota Rules 8420.0530 to 8420.0630. (H) A wetland alteration permit shall not be issued unless the proposed development complies within the provisions of the Mitigation Section of this article, as well as the standards, intent, and purpose of this article. 10-9-7 WETLAND BUFFER AREAS (A) For lots of record created after (date of ordinance adoption), a buffer area shall be maintained abutting all wetlands. Buffer area vegetation shall be established and maintained in accordance to the following requirements: (See illustration 10-9-7) (B) Buffer area vegetation shall be considered adequate when the buffer has a continuous, dense layer of perennial grasses, flowers, trees and/or shrubs that have been undisturbed for at least 10 consecutive years. Vegetation shall be considered unacceptable if: I. it is composed of noxious weeds; or 2. topography or sparse vegetation tends to channelize the flow of surface water; or 3. for some other reason the vegetation is unlikely to retain nutrients and sediment. 13 l31A~MONlI\M~T lAJr lANE / HoME. I 1 I \ . J! . ~~ClnON lO-9-"'t_ 1?UfPe:rz- k(2.e1'6, 1: tMJ~:rrf2A"'~ D 10' t;uffe\L ~ Mol N II'r\M M . \f.JE:nJtND ~~ . ~k . ... ~ . ~CY~ lO-q-1- (L.-;. No ~ ~ ~\,U,f2a) \At\eN 1J2.A1t.. otL j"2-OfrO ~~ \JJGtrlIoJ'O (w uw...o (1..€.(5UA\ ~ /(O~-nONI'\l.. "f1U,IN~)- lo:-~-,.. (410. t;l.tfreL ~\ ~D wt\EN 1l2A"\ L-- p~ W~D ep~6 .. e- . . . . (C) Where buffer areas, or a portion thereof, are not vegetated or have been cultivated or otherwise disturbed within 10 years of the permit application, such areas shall be re-planted and maintained according to each of the following standards: 1. Buffer areas shall be planted with a seed mix containing 100 percent perennial native plant species, except for a one-time planting of annual nurse or cover crop such as oats or rye. 2. The seed mix to be used shall consist of at least 15 pounds pure live seed (PLS) per acre of native grass seed and I pound PLS per acre of native forbs. Native grass and native forb mixes shall contain no fewer than four (4) and five (5) species respectively. 3. The annual nurse or cover crop shall be applied at a rate of 20 pounds per acre. 4. Native shrubs may be substituted for forbs. Such shrubs may be bare root stock and shall be planted at a rate of 60 plants per acre. Shrubs shall be distributed so as to provide a natural appearance and shall not be planted in rows. 5. Buffer area plantings along the Vermillion River corridor or other areas of trout stream habitat shall follow planting guidelines included in the Farmington Surface Water Management Plan. (Approved tree species are list on Figure 4-5 in the Farmington Surface Water Management Plan.) 6. Native grasses and forbs shall be planted by a qualified contractor by using a drill designed for native grass seeding or by broadcasting or hydroseeding at Minnesota Department of Transportation rates (1995 MNDOT Standard Specifications for Construction). 7. No fertilizer shall be used in establishing new buffer areas. 8. All seeded areas shall be mulched immediately with clean straw at a rate of 1.5 tons per acre. Much shall be anchored with a disk or tackifier. 9. Buffer areas (both natural and created) shall be protected by erosion control measures as determined by the City. These must be employed during construction until permanent ground cover is established to prevent siltation of the buffer area and wetland. 10. A walking trail may be established within a wetland buffer area. The trail should be constructed to minimize erosion. An undisturbed area of vegetative buffer at least 10 feet in width should remain between the trail and the wetland edge. (See illustration 10-9-7 (C)10) 14 11. Applicants may obtain from the City a set of standard seeding and planting specifications for buffer areas which meet all the City requirements. . (D) Buffer areas shall be identified by permanent monumentation acceptable to the City. In residential subdivisions, a monument is required for each lot. In other situations, a monument is required for each three hundred (300) feet of wetland edge. (E) The clearing and removal of vegetation in the buffer area is prohibited, except for selective clearing and pruning of individual trees and shrubs which are dead, diseased, noxious weeds, or hazards. (F) Where acceptable to adjacent properties, owners are encouraged to leave dead trees and branches in the buffer area, because they are part of the native natural environment and provide necessary habitat to many birds and native wildlife. (0) All buffer areas are measured from the wetland edge as marked in the field. (H) . The following buffer area sizes are minimum requirements: Wetland tvpe: Protect Manage 1 Manage 2 Utilize Average Buffer Width 75 ft. 50 ft. 25 ft. Oft. . 100 ft. - "protect" wetlands in the designated trout stream corridor Minimum Buffer 75 ft. 30 ft. 20 ft. Oft. Structure Setback from Outer Edge Of Buffer 10 ft. 10 ft. 10 ft. Oft. (I) Any wetland restored, relocated, replaced or enhanced because of wetland alterations should have at least the minimum buffer area required for the class of the wetland involved. (J) The City may recommend buffer area averaging in instances where it will provide resource protection to wetland or to valuable adjacent upland habitat, or allow for reasonable use of property as described in Section 4, provided that the total buffer area on-site contained in the buffer remains the same. (K) For roadways, trails, and driveways, or portions thereof, that are routed across wetlands and are subject to WCA replacement requirements, no buffer areas shall . 15 . . . be required. Public trails that are routed through wetlands for specific interpretive purposes shall also be exempted from this requirement. (See illustration 10-9-7L) (L) If the area of the buffer has a preconstruction slope of 12 percent or greater, the buffer shall be at the maximum width for the applicant's wetland classification. The use of a meandering buffer area to maintain a natural appearance is encouraged but not required in areas of flat topography. 10-9-8 WETLAND AND BUFFER AREA MITIGATION. (A) Where wetland alteration is approved and mitigation is required, mitigation must result in equal or improved wetland function and value. Mitigation plans must address water quality improvement, and maintenance of pre-existing hydrological balance and wildlife habitat. The wetland function and value will include improvement of water quality, maintaining hydrological balance, and provision of wildlife habitat. Mitigation will be performed at ratios required by the Wetland Conservation Act to achieve replacement of the wetland function and value. (B) The following criteria shall be required for wetland or buffer area mitigation. 1. Wetland mitigation will be performed at a ratio required by the Wetland Conservation Act. Buffers will be required to be replaced on the fill slope. When a wetland is completely filled, the buffer area requirement associated with the classification of the wetland that was filled will be required for the replacement wetland, unless replacement is occurring adjacent to a wetland with a higher classification. In this case, the buffer area requirement for the higher wetland classification will apply. 2. Mitigation should always result in equal or improved wetland function and value. The wetland function and value will include improvement of water quality, maintaining hydrological balance, and provision of wildlife habitat. 3. Mitigation shall provide a buffer area as set forth in this Ordinance. 4. Mitigation shall maintain or enhance the wetland hydrological balance through the following: (a) (b) (c) Restoration of partially drained wetlands Creation of new wetlands. Restoration of buffer area functions. 16 5. Mitigation shall provide for pretreatment of water prior to entry to the wetland to improve water quality if required by the Farmingon Surface Water Management Plan. . 6. Mitigation involving the buffer area shall provide landscaping for nesting and food for wildlife habitat. The buffer area landscape shall provide for wildlife cover and utilize a diversity of native flora (Le., trees, shrubs, grasses, herbaceous plants) to encourage wildlife diversity. 7. Wetland and buffer area mitigation should be undertaken on site. If this is not feasible, mitigation should occur locally within the subwatershed. If this is not possible, mitigation should occur outside the subwatershed, elsewhere in the City. Ifmitigation cannot be accomplished on site, or if the City deems it necessary to perform mitigation off-site, the applicant shall be responsible for contributing into the City's Wetland Restoration Fund (described in the Farmington Surface Water Management Plan). The contribution will be based on the city's cost to create the new wetland. This includes, but is not limited to, the cost of land, design, engineering, legal, and construction activities needed to create the new wetland. The mitigation performed off-site shall meet the requirements of this ordinance. . 8. Wetland and buffer area plantings that are completed for mitigation shall meet the standards for plantings specified in section 10-9-7. 10-9-9 APPLICATION AND ISSUANCE OF PERMIT. (A) The applicant for a wetland alteration permit shall furnish the information required by the City including, but not limited to, a site plan, topographic data, hydrological data, and habitat evaluation procedures for the review of a wetland alteration permit application. The community development director shall use discretion regarding the level and complexity of information required to review the request. (B) A wetland alteration permit shall not be issued without having been first reviewed by the Planning Commission and approved by the City Council following the review and hearing procedures set forth for conditional use permits and the additional requirement of Minnesota Rules 8420.0230. The applicant shall have the burden of proving that the proposed use or activity complies with the purposes, intent, and other provisions of this article. The Council may establish reasonable conditions which are specifically set forth in the permit to ensure compliance with requirements . 17 . . . 10-9-10 contained in this article. Such conditions may limit the size, kind, or character of the proposed work, require the construction of other structures, require replacement of vegetation and wetland function and vlaue; establish required monitoring procedures and maintenance activity; state the work over time; require the alteration of the site design to ensure buffering; require the provision of a performance security. (C) The Farmington City Council shall appoint a person to serve on a technical evaluation panel. The person must be a technical professional with expertise in water resources management. Other members of the technical evaluation panel shall include designated staff from the Dakota Soil and Water Conservation District, and Minnesota Board of Water and Soil Resources. Membership of the technical evaluation panel is specified in the Minnesota Wetland Conservation Act. Decisions under this ordinance must not be made until after receiving the determination of the technical evaluation panel regarding wetland public values, location, size, and/or type if the City Council, the landowner, or a member of the technical evaluation panel asks for such determinations. The City Council may seek and consider recommendations, if any, made by the technical evaluation panel in making replacement plan decisions. (D) Decisions made under this ordinance may be appealed to the City's designated Technical Evaluation Panel. Staff costs to the City associated with the appeal shall be borne by the Applicant. (E) Decisions made under this ordinance may also be appealed to the Board of Water and Soil Resources under Minnesota Rules 8420.0250, after administrative appeal rights under the official controls have been exhausted. EXEMPTIONS Activities exempted by Minnesota Rules 8420.0120 shall be exempted from the provisions of this article. However, certificates of exemption must be obtained from the City prior to starting work. 10-9-11 VARIANCES Variances from the requirements of this article may be granted in accordance with the variance provisions of this chapter as regulated by Article 10-86 of this Code, so long as the variances do not violate the Wetland Conservation Act or its Rules. 10-9-12 PREVIOUS ORDINANCE. 18 Chapter 9 of the Farmington City Code is amended by deleting Sections 10-9-1 through 10-9-10 in their entirety. . This ordinance shall be effective immediately upon its passage and publication. PASSED AND ADOPTED this City of Farmington. of , 1997 by the City Council of the . . 19