Table of Contents

Home Occupations

The city’s zoning code permits home occupations by right, subject to use-specific standards (Appendix B §9.2). All home occupations must comply with location and space, dwelling modification, storage, sign, nuisance, hours of operation, equipment, vehicle, parking, specific use and material standards (Appendix B §9.8.A).

The city distinguishes home occupations between “on-site” and “off-site.” Employee standards differ between the two definitions (Appendix B §9.8.A.1). Additional employees beyond the permitted standard may be allowed for off-site home occupations with a ministerial discretionary use permit (Appendix B §9.8.A.1). 

Solar Energy

The city's zoning ordinance includes a chapter on alternative energy systems with a section on solar energy (§15.2). The regulations are intended to promote compatible use of solar energy systems to assist in decreasing dependence on nonrenewable energy sources. Solar energy systems are permitted in all district subject to requirements. A permit is required. Private restrictions on solar energy systems are prohibited.

The zoning ordinance lists a number of systems and architectural features considered "solar collectors" and defines other terms including "solar right" and "solar-oriented lot." Roof-mounted systems may exceed roof lines in height by 3' but systems must meet setback requirements for shed structures.

The zoning ordinance provides for solar access protection by allowing system owners to apply for a solar access permit protecting defined solar access to the system from interference by structures, trees, or topography. Certain restrictions apply to not unreasonably burden adjacent property owners.

The zoning ordinance also encourages solar-oriented lots with protected solar access, requiring that at least 40% of lots of less than 15,000 SF in single- and two-family residential developments be solar-oriented and that elements of the development plan be located and designed to protect access to planned solar collectors or solar-oriented rooftop surfaces.