Table of Contents

Active Transportation

The city’s unified development code requires that all developments, in an effort to reduce VMT and promote active transportation, submit to a Traffic Impact Analysis and Development Review Process (§15.14.060(F)). The code is illustrated with a sample plan for pedestrian circulation and illustrated performance standards for streets and walkways to enhance safety.

Solar Energy

The city's unified development code permits accessory solar energy systems in all zoning districts by right, subject to specific standards that provide a limited exemption from height and setback requirements (§15.14.030.A).

This code also pre-empts restrictive covenants, enables solar access permits, and stipulates that a percentage of all new single- and two-family lots must be designed to take advantage of solar access.

Food Systems | Urban Livestock

The city code's animal title was amended in 2011 and addresses the keeping of potbellied pigs, rabbits and fowl, and livestock. Along with cats and dogs, residents may keep up to 4 potbellied pigs at a single premise; standards address outdoor shelters and sanitation (§6.06.020). Up to 12 rabbits or fowl may be kept within the city subject to standards addressing setbacks and sizes for enclosures, sanitation, and nuisance prevention (§6.06.030). Livestock, emus, and ostriches are allowed subject to standards, including a minimum undeveloped lot space of ¼ acre (10,890 SF) and provisions addressing enclosures, sanitation, and nuisance prevention (§6.06.040).

Wind Energy

The city’s unified development code permits small wind energy systems in most zoning districts by right, subject to use-specific standards (§15.10.000). These standards address height, vertical-axis turbines, setbacks, lighting, noise, signs, code compliance, screening, compliance with other standards, new technology, and temporary meteorological towers (§15.14.030.B).

It defines “wind energy system,” “small wind energy system,” and “vertical axis wind turbine” (§15.28.030).

Zoning Reform and Code Writing

The city adopted a new unified development code in 2010 (Title 15). It includes a mix of use-based and form-based zoning standards. It defines and regulates uses based on broad categories, with select specific use types, and includes use-specific standards to minimize reliance on discretionary use permits. It is richly illustrated and uses tables to organize use permissions and dimensional standards.

Its purpose statements address implementing the local comprehensive plan; ensuring efficient development review; encouraging efficient use of the available land supply; promoting balanced land uses; Ensuring adequate open space for light, air, and fire safety; conserving property values; ensuring the provision of adequate public facilities; protecting historic resources; preserving residential neighborhoods; preserving downtown; protecting features and areas of scenic and environmental significance; ensuring greater public safety, convenience, and accessibility; enhancing building and site design; ensuring development of an accessible system of recreation, parks, and open space facilities; and ensuring that service demands of new development will not exceed the capabilities of existing streets, utilities, or other public facilities and services (§15.02.020).