Share Your Thoughts on Use Permits for Public Space Design Processes
Share Your Thoughts on Use Permits for Public Space Design Processes
The County is seeking feedback on the option to issue use permits for structures in parks and public spaces. Use permits could provide opportunities for more flexibility in zoning regulations that would allow the County Board to consider adjustments to standards on a case-by-case basis. These adjustments could be applied to standards such as maximum heights, signage, setbacks, and parking. This form provides background information on current standards and collects your feedback on this proposed flexibility in zoning regulations.
If you weren't able to make it to the October 3 virtual Q&A session? Please take a moment to review the slides and watch the meeting recording for a staff presentation and community questions.
Please share your feedback now through Sunday, October 8th.
Learn more and sign up for updates on the Use Permits for Public Space Design Processes webpage.
Background
In 2016, the County Board adopted a zoning ordinance amendment that enabled modifications of height, setback, density, dimensional, and parking requirements for elementary, middle, and high schools within the S-3A zoning district through the special exception use permit process. Such flexibility could be used for layouts and designs of individual public space projects that would benefit from increased height, reduced setbacks, and/or reduced parking requirements.
This initiative for an updated use permit process is rooted in the Action Plan of the 2019 Public Spaces Master Plan which recommends that the County review and consider updating the zoning regulations related to parks and public spaces in “S-3A” and “P-S” districts, specifically related to setbacks, athletic field and other lighting, parking and parking options, dog parks and dog runs, signage, height, water features, fencing and temporary use of public and private property as public space.