From
Rashad Jackson, AICP
Title
TA201002 - Accessory Structure Text Amendment : Amendment to Article 6 Density and Dimensional Requirements of the Unified Development Code; An ordinance amending Article 6 Section 6 Accessory Structures to amend development regulations for accessory structure size, height and allowed exterior materials.(On October 26, 2020, the Planning and Zoning Commission recommended approval of this request by a vote of 9-0).
Presenter
Rashad Jackson, AICP
Recommended Action
Approve
Analysis
Grand Prairie has seen an increase in the number of variance requests for accessory structures and detached garages. The requests have been focused primarily on size, height and exterior material exceptions. Over the last two years, approximately 34% of Zoning Board of Adjustment request stemmed from accessory structure variances (see Attachment 1 table).
From a planning and development standpoint, significant and routine variance requests for regulations usually means the regulation should be amended. Staff has proposed an amendment to address the significant number of requests in order to reduce resident and staff time for such matters. The proposed amendments will streamline staff review of accessory structure requests and allow for more administrative approvals. The amendments will also put the Unified Development Code (UDC) in line with House Bill 2439 which prohibits the ability to require specific exterior materials on principle or accessory structures.
Size
Current accessory structure regulations limit accessory structures to a set square footage no matter the size of the lot (see Attachment 2). A one acre lot is restricted to the same square footage as a quarter acre lot. Due to this size restriction, most residents request a variance. Based on previous variance requests, the typical size requested is 1,000 - 1,300 sq. ft. Larger units are generally requested by residents with larger lots.
Height
Current height requirements fo...
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