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ITEM: Discussion of Proposed Zoning Text Amendment for Accessory Shade Structures
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PUBLIC HEARING: NO QUASI-JUDICIAL: NO
SUMMARY: The Architectural Review Board (ARB) has been getting an increased number of requests for flat roof shade structures. At the March 25, 2026 ARB meeting, the Board expressed interest in modifying the Land Development Regulations to include language that would allow these structures to be allowed without the need for ARB approval. Below is the proposed text in underline (new) format:
Section 6.4.2.A.8. Freestanding, Accessory Shade Structures (Pergolas, Gazebos, or similar structures):
a. Structures 120 square feet or less with a height less than 10 feet do not need to be constructed of the same materials and colors as the principal structure(s) and shall have a rear and side setback of 5 feet.
b. Structures greater than 120 square feet shall meet the following requirements:
i. Structures shall meet the setbacks of the principal structure.
ii. All structures, including slat and flat roof, that do not match the materials and colors of the principal structure shall be completely screened from view from the right-of-way/roadway and be located in the side or rear yard. Structures that match the materials and colors of the principal structures do need require screening.
iii. Structures shall not exceed 12 feet in overall height.
iv. Structures with a flat roof shall be open on a minimum of three (3) sides. If the structure has fixed, opaque or slatted siding more than three (3) feet in height on one (1) side, not including screen enclosures, then that side shall be completely screened from view (including adjacent lot, public view, etc.) by an opaque hedge/fence/wall.
Section 6.4.4.A.5. All roofs shall meet the following standards:
a. For all residential structures, 70% of under air footprint plus attached garage shall have a minimum 3:12 roof pitch;
b. Flat roofed areas shall not be visible from the street, unless an alternative design has been approved by ARB. The overall flat roof area on the entire property (both attached and detached to the principal structure) shall not exceed 30% of the principal structure(s) roofed area; and
c. Roof planes shall have a minimum of a three (3) foot offset to be considered a separate roof plane.