EQEA 5/9/2023
Environmental Quality and Energy
Commission Meeting
May 09, 2023
7:00 PM
Fridley Civic Campus, 7071 University Ave N.E.
Agenda
Call to Order
Approval of Meeting Minutes
1.Approve the Minutes from the Environmental Quality and Energy Commission meeting of April
11, 2023.
New Business
2.Critical Area Overlay Chapter Updates
rd
3.73Avenue Corridor Input
4.Deconstruction webinar and research
Old Business
5.Energy Action Plan Updates
6.Events and Outreach Updates
7.Grant Updates
Other Items
8.Digital Collaboration Brainstorming
9.Informal Status Reports
Adjournment
Upon request, accommodation will be provided to allow individuals with disabilities to participate in
any City of Fridley services, programs, or activities. Hearing impaired persons who need an interpreter
or other persons who require auxiliary aids should contact the City at (763) 572-3450.
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AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date:May 9, 2023 Meeting Type:Environmental Quality and Energy Commission
Submitted By:Rachel Workin, Environmental Planner
Title
Approve the Minutes from the Environmental Quality and Energy Commission meeting ofApril 11,
2023.
Background
Approve the Minutes from the Environmental Quality and Energy Commission meeting of April 11,
2023.
Recommendation
Approve the Minutes from the Environmental Quality and Energy Commission meeting of April 11,
2023.
Attachments and Other Resources
Environmental Quality and Energy Commission Minutes-April 11, 2023
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
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ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY & ENERGY
COMMISSION MEETING
April11, 2023
7:00 PM
Fridley Civic Campus, 7071 University Ave N.E.
MINUTES
Call to Order
Vice Chair Olberdingcalled the Environmental Quality and Energy Commissionto order at7:02p.m.
Roll Call
Present:Amy Dritz
Nick Olberding
Justin Foell
Aaron Klemz
Mark Hansen
Heidi Ferris
Absent:Sam Stoxen
Others Present: Rachel Workin, Environmental Planner
Approval ofAgenda
Motionby CommissionerKlemzto approvethe meeting agenda. Secondedby Commissioner
Olberding.The motion carriedunanimously.
Approval of Meeting Minutes
1.Approval of March14, 2023Environmental Quality and Energy Commission Meeting Minutes
Motionby CommissionerKlemzto approvethe March14, 2023meeting minutes. secondedby
CommissionerStoxen.The motion carriedunanimously.
New Business
2.Chair Election
Ms. Workin announced that Commissioner Dritz had stepped down as chair of the EQEC. The
Commissioners thanked Commissioner Dritz for her service.
Motion by Commissioner Dritz to nominateCommissioner Klemz to serve as chair. Seconded by
Commissioner Foell. The motion carried unanimously.
3.GreenStep Cities 2022 Metric Review
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Environmental Quality & Energy Commission Minutes Page 2
Meeting 4/11/2023
awarded Step 5 status at the League of Minnesota Cities conference in June.
Old Business
4.!Energy Action Plan updates
Ms. Workin shared that the
first round. Ms. Workin
5.!Grant updates
Ms. Workin shared that the City was awarded another round of grant funding for Preparing for Emerald
Ash Borer.
6.!Outreach and Event updates
Ms. Workin shared that no outreach and events had been conducted the previous month, but that the
Environmental Fun Fair was scheduled for April 22.
Other Items
7.!Digital Collaboration Brainstorming
Commissioner Olberding suggested that the EQEC consider platforms for digital collaboration to increase
community feedback and awareness of sustainability issues. Commissioners were asked to look for
examples of existing platforms to share with the group.
8.!Informal Status Reports
Commissioner Ferris shared that she would be partnering with Stevenson Elementary on native planting
projects.
Adjournment
Motion by Commissioner Foell to adjourn the meeting. Seconded by Commissioner Hansen. The
Motion carried unanimously. The meeting was adjourned at 8:12 PM.
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AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date:May 9, 2023 Meeting Type:Environmental Quality and Energy Commission
Submitted By:Rachel Workin, Environmental Planner
Title
Critical AreaOverlay Chapter Updates
Background
The Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area (MRCCA) is a corridor of land along a 72-mile stretch of the
Mississippi River through the Twin Cities Metropolitan Area. Land development within the MRCCA is
regulated by local governments in order to protect the natural, cultural, and scenic resources of the
River. Communities within the MRCCA are responsible for developing a MRCCA plan as part of their
Comprehensive Plan as well as implementing zoning regulations consistent with the plan and Minnesota
State Statute. These zoning regulations provide special consideration for the River during building
construction, land alteration, subdivisions, and other land use activities. In Fridley, these regulations are
contained within Zoning Overlay District 205-28 O-2 Critical Area District Regulations.
In 2017, the state adopted new rules for the MRCCA put forth by the Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources (DNR). The DNR also developed a model ordinance that provides the minimum standards
that communities must adopt. Beginning in January 2020 all 30 communities within the MRCCA have
begun adoptingthe new MRCCA zoning standards to be in compliance with these new rules. The Friends
of the Mississippi River (FMR) provided a presentation to the EQEC on the MRCCA at the July 13, 2021
meeting. The City has also revied comments provided by FMR and the Audubon Chapter of Minneapolis
provided to other citiesbased on the MRCCA Model Ordinance.
The following is a draft ordinance replacing the current Chapter 205-28O-2thatconsiders the following:
1) The required changes from the MRCCA Model Ordinance
2) Components ofthe existing MRCCA Ordinancedeemed desirable to be maintained
3) Suggestions from FMR and Audubon deemed desirable for inclusion
Documents explaining the changes and providing examples of how projects will be regulated differently
under the new rules are attached.
Additionally, draft changes have been provided forthe 205.30 O-5 Telecommunications Overlay and the
205.32 O-7 Shoreland Overlay Chapters. The revisions to the TelecommunicationsOverlay communicate
that any telecommunications site must meet the conditions within the MRCCA Overlay, as required by
the MRCCA Model Ordinance. The revisions within the Shoreland Overlay allow propertiesthat are within
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
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both the Shoreland Overlay and the MRCCA Overlay to reference the MRCCA Overlay. This simplifies
the regulatory process for properties that fall within both overlays while maintaining the standards of
both overlays.
Recommendation
Staff recommend that commissioners recommend the following changes to the Critical Area,
Shoreland, and Telecommunications Chapters for approval.
Attachments and Other Resources
!Draft Critical Area Overlay Chapter
!Critical Area Report outlining changes between current and proposed draft chapter
!Example scenario project document
!Comments from Audubon Chapter of Minneapolis on DNR Model Ordinance
!Draft Shoreland Overlay chapter
!Draft Telecommunications Overlay Chapter
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
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Fridley City Code
Section 205.28. O-2 Critical Area District Regulations
205.28.01 Purpose and Intent
The Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area (MRCCA) Chapter is adopted pursuant to the
authorization and policies contained in Minnesota Statutes (M.S.) Chapter 116G, Minnesota Rules
Parts 6106.0010 - 6106.0180, and the planning and zoning enabling legislation in M.S. Chapters
462 and 473.
The Legislature of Minnesota has delegated responsibility to local governments of the state to
regulate the subdivision, use and development of designated critical areas and thus preserve and
enhance the quality of important historic, cultural, aesthetic values, and natural systems and
provide for the wise use of these areas.
205.28.02 General Provisions
1. Jurisdiction. The boundaries of the O-2 District shall apply to land within the river corridor
boundary as described in the State Register, volume 43, pages 508 to 519 and shown on the
zoning map.
2. Severability. If any section, clause, provision, or portion of this Chapter is judged
unconstitutional or invalid by a court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this Chapter
shall not be affected thereby.
3. Abrogation and Greater Restrictions. It is not intended by this Chapter to repeal, abrogate,
or impair any existing easements, covenants, or deed restrictions. However, where this Chapter
imposes greater restrictions, the provisions of this Chapter shall prevail. All other Chapters
inconsistent with this Chapter are hereby repealed to the extent of the inconsistency only.
205.28.03 Definitions
Unless specifically defined below, words or phrases used in this Chapter shall be interpreted to
give them the same meaning they have in common usage and to give this Chapter its most
reasonable application. For the purpose of this Chapter,
mandatory and not permissive. All distances, unless otherwise specified, are measured
horizontally.
Access path: An area designated to provide ingress and egress to public waters.
Adjacent: Having a boundary that physically touches or adjoins.
Agricultural use: A use having the meaning given under M.S. § 40A.02.
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Alternative design: Subdivision design methods such as conservation design, transfer of
development density, or similar zoning and site design techniques that protect open space and
natural areas.
Biological and ecological functions: The functions of vegetation in stabilizing soils and slopes,
retaining and filtering runoff, providing habitat, and recharging groundwater.
Bluff:
1. A slope that rises at least 25 feet where the grade of the slope averages 18% or greater,
measured over any horizontal distance of 25 feet, from the toe of the slope to the top of the
slope. Where the slope begins below the ordinary high water level, the ordinary high water
level is the toe of the slope. See Figure 1; or
Figure 1: Bluff
2. A natural escarpment or cliff with a slope that rises at least ten feet above the ordinary
high water level or toe of the slope, whichever is applicable, to the top of the slope, with a
slope of 75 degrees or greater. See Figure 2.
Figure 2. Natural Escarpment Bluff and Bluff Impact Zone
Bluff impact zone (BIZ): A bluff and land located within 20 feet of the bluff. See Figure 2 for natural
escarpment or cliff example and Figure 3 for more common bluff example.
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Figure 3. Bluff Impact Zone, Bluffline, Toe of bluff, and Top of Bluff
Bluffline: A line delineating the top of the bluff connecting the points at which the angle of ascent
becomes less than 18%. More than one bluffline may be encountered.
Bluff, Toe of: A line along the bottom of a bluff, requiring field verification, such that the slope
above the line exceeds18% and the slope below the line is 18% or less.
Bluff, Top of: A line along the top of a bluff, requiring field verification, such that the slope below
the line exceeds 18% and the slope above the line is 18% or less.
Buildable area: The area upon which structures may be placed on a lot or parcel of land and
excludes areas needed to meet requirements for setback, rights-of-way, bluff impact zones,
historic properties, wetlands, designated floodways, land below the ordinary high water level of
public waters, and other unbuildable areas.
Building: A structure with two or more outside rigid walls and a fully secured roof and affixed to
a permanent site.
Commissioner: The Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources.
Conservation design: A pattern of subdivision that is characterized by grouping lots within a
portion of a parcel, where the remaining portion of the parcel is permanently protected as open
space.
Conventional subdivision: A pattern of subdivision that is characterized by lots that are spread
regularly throughout a parcel in a lot and block design.
Deck: A horizontal, unenclosed, aboveground level structure open to the sky, with or without
attached railings, seats, trellises, or other features, attached or functionally related to a principal
use or site.
Developer: Having the meaning given under M.S. § 116G.03.
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Development: Having the meaning given under M.S. § 116G.03.
Discretionary action: An action under this chapter related to land use that requires a public hearing
by local ordinance or statute, such as preliminary plats, final subdivision plats, planned unit
developments, special use permits, interim use permits, variances, appeals, and rezonings.
Dock: Having the meaning given under Minnesota Rules Chapter 6115.
Electric power facilities: Equipment and associated facilities for generating electric power or
devices for converting wind energy to electrical energy as identified and defined under M.S. §
216E.
Essential services: Underground or overhead gas, electrical, communications, steam, sanitary
sewer, or water distribution, treatment, collection, supply, or disposal systems, including storm
water. Essential services include poles, wires, mains, drains, pipes, conduits, cables, fire alarm
boxes, traffic signals, hydrants, navigational structures, aviation safety facilities, lift stations,
stormwater management facilities, or other similar equipment and accessories in conjunction with
the systems. Essential services do not include buildings, treatment works as defined in M.S. §
115.01, electric power facilities or transmission services.
Floodplain: Having the meaning given the meaning given under Minnesota Rules Chapter 6120.
Fully reconstructs: The reconstruction of an existing impervious surface that involves site grading
and subsurface excavation so that soil is exposed. Mill and overlay and other resurfacing activities
are not considered fully reconstructed.
Hard-surface trail: A trail surfaced in crushed aggregate, asphalt, or other hard surface, for public
use, as determined by local, regional, or state agency plans.
Historic property: An archaeological site, standing structure, site, district, or other property that is:
1. Listed in the National Register of Historic Places or the State Register of Historic Places or
locally designated as a historic site under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 471;
2. determined to meet the criteria for eligibility to the National Register of Historic Places or
the State Register of Historic Places as determined by the director of the Minnesota Historical
Society; or
3. An unplatted cemetery that falls under the provisions of Minnesota Statutes Chapter 307,
in consultation with the Office of the State Archaeologist.
Impervious surface: A constructed hard surface that either prevents or retards the entry of water
into the soil and causes water to run off the surface in greater quantities and at an increased rate
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of flow than prior to development. Examples include rooftops, decks, sidewalks, patios, parking
lots, storage areas, and driveways, including those with concrete, asphalt, or gravel surfaces.
Intensive vegetation clearing: The removal of all or a majority of the trees or shrubs in a contiguous
patch, strip, row, or block.
Interim use: A use having the meaning given under Minnesota Statutes Chapters 394 and 462.
Land alteration: An activity that exposes the soil or changes the topography, drainage, or cross
section of the land, excluding gardening or similar minor soil disturbances.
Lot width: The shortest distance between lot lines measured at both the ordinary high water level
and at the required structure setback from the ordinary high water level. See Figure 4.
Figure 4. Lot Width
Marina: Having the meaning given under Minnesota Rules Chapter 6115.
Mississippi Flyway: A major North American bird migration corridor that encompasses all MRCCA
districts.
Mooring: Having the meaning given under Minnesota Rules part 6115.0170.
Native plant community: A plant community identified by the Minnesota Biological Survey or
biological survey issued or adopted by a local, state, or federal agency.
Natural-surface trail: A trail composed of native soil and rock or compacted granular stone,
primarily intended for hiking or mountain bike use, as determined by local, regional, or state
agency plans.
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Natural vegetation: Any combination of ground cover, understory, and tree canopy that, while it
may have been altered by human activity, continues to stabilize soils, retain and filter runoff,
provide habitat, and recharge groundwater.
Nonmetallic mining: Construction, reconstruction, repair, relocation, expansion, or removal of any
facility for the extraction, stockpiling, storage, disposal, or reclamation of nonmetallic minerals
such a stone, sand, and gravel. Nonmetallic mining does not include ancillary facilities such as
access roads, bridges, culverts, and water level control structures. For purposes of this subpart,
and any structures that drain or divert public waters to allow mining.
Off-premise advertising signs: Those signs that direct attention to a product, service, business, or
entertainment venue that is not exclusively related to the premises where the sign is located.
Ordinary high water level (OHWL): Having the meaning given under M.S. § 103G.005.
Parcel: Having the meaning given under M.S. § 116G.03.
Patio: A constructed hard surface located at ground level with no railings and open to the sky.
Picnic shelter: A roofed structure open on all sides, accessory to a recreational use.
Planned Unit Development: A method of land development that merges zoning and subdivision
controls, allowing developers to plan and develop a large area as a single entity, characterized by
a unified site design, a mix of structure types and land uses, and phasing of development over a
number of years. Planned unit development includes any conversion of existing structures and
land uses that utilize this method of development.
Plat: Having the meaning given under M.S. § 505 and 515B.
Primary conservation areas (PCAs): Key resources and features, including shore impact zones, bluff
impact zones, floodplains, wetlands, gorges, areas of confluence with tributaries, natural drainage
routes, unstable soils and bedrock, native plant communities, cultural and historic properties, and
significant existing vegetative stands, tree canopies, and other resources identified in local
government plans.
Private facilities: Private roads, driveways, and parking areas, private water access and viewing
structures, decks and patios in setback areas, and private signs.
Public facilities: Public utilities, public transportation facilities, and public recreational structures.
Public recreation facilities: Recreational facilities provided by the state or a local government and
dedicated to public use, including parks, scenic overlooks, observation platforms, trails, docks,
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fishing piers, picnic shelters, water access ramps, and other similar water-oriented public facilities
used for recreation.
Public river corridor views (PRCVs): Views toward the river from public parkland, historic
properties, and public overlooks, as well as views toward bluffs from the ordinary high water level
of the opposite shore, as seen during the summer months and documented in the MRCCA
plan/chapter of the comprehensive plan.
Public transportation facilities: All transportation facilities provided by federal, state, or local
government and dedicated to public use, such as roadways, transit facilities, railroads, and
bikeways.
Public utilities: Electric power facilities, essential services, and transmission services.
Public waters: Having the meaning given under M.S. § 103G.005.
Readily visible: Land and development that are easily seen from the ordinary high water level of
the opposite shore during summer months.
Resource agency: A federal, state, regional, or local agency that engages in environmental, natural,
or cultural resource protection or restoration activities, including planning, implementation, and
monitoring.
Retaining wall: A vertical or nearly vertical structures constructed of mortar and rubble masonry,
rock, or stone , vertical timber pilings, horizontal timber planks with piling supports, sheet pilings,
poured concrete, concrete blocks, or other durable materials that in combination exceed four
vertical feet.
Rock riprap: Natural coarse rock placed or constructed to armor shorelines, streambeds, bridge
abutments, pilings and other shoreline structures against scour, or water or ice erosion.
River corridor boundary: The boundary approved and adopted by the Metropolitan Council under
M.S. § 116G.06, as approved and adopted by the legislature in M.S. § 116G.15, and as legally
described in the State Register, volume 43, pages 508 to 518.
River-dependent use: The use of land for commercial, industrial, or utility purposes, where access
to and use of a public water feature is an integral part of the normal conduct of business and
where the use is dependent on shoreline facilities.
Selective vegetation removal: The removal of isolated individual trees or shrubs that are not in a
contiguous patch, strip, row, or block and that does not substantially reduce the tree canopy or
understory cover.
Setback: A separation distance measured horizontally.
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Shore impact zone (SIZ): Land located between the ordinary high water level of public waters
and a line parallel to it at a setback of 50% of the required structure setback or, for agricultural
use, 50 feet landward of the ordinary high water level. See Figure 5.
Figure 5. Shore Impact Zone
Shoreland. Shoreland means land located within the following distances from the ordinary high
water elevation of public waters:
1. Land within 1,000 feet from the normal high watermark of a lake, pond, or flowage; and
2. Land within 300 feet of a river or stream or the landward side of a floodplain delineated by
ordinance on the river or stream, whichever is greater.
Shoreline facilities: Facilities that require a location adjoining public waters for ingress and egress,
loading and unloading, and public water intake and outflow, such as watercraft lifts, marinas,
short-term watercraft mooring facilities for patrons, and water access ramps. Structures that would
be enhanced by a shoreline location, but do not require a location adjoining public waters as part
of their function, are not shoreline facilities, such as restaurants, bait shops, and boat dealerships.
Sign: See definition in the Signs Chapter.
Steep slope: Any slope steeper than 15% fifteen percent (15 feet of rise for every 100 feet
horizontal run).
Storm water management facilities: Facilities for the collection, conveyance, treatment, or disposal
of storm water.
Structure: A building, sign, or appurtenance thereto, except for aerial or underground utility lines,
such as sewer, electric, telephone, or gas lines, and utility line towers, poles, and other supporting
appurtenances.
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Subsurface sewage treatment system. Having the meaning given under Minnesota Rules Part
7080.1100.
Transmission services: Lines, cables, pipelines, or conduits that are:
1. Used to transport power between two points, as identified and defined under M.S. § 216E.01,
Subd. 4; or
2. For mains or pipelines for gas, liquids, or solids in suspension, used to transport gas, liquids,
or solids in suspension between two points; and
3. Telecommunication or electric lines, cables, pipelines, or conduits.
Treeline: The more or less continuous line formed by the tops of trees in a wooded area when
viewed from a particular point. The treeline is determined during all seasons as if under full foliage.
Variance: Having the meaning given under M.S. § 394.22.
Water access ramp: A boat ramp, carry-down site, boarding dock, and approach road, or other
access that allows launching and removal of a boat, canoe, or other watercraft with or without a
vehicle and trailer.
Water-oriented accessory structure: A small building or other improvement, except stairways,
fences, docks, and retaining walls, that, because of the relationship of its use to public waters,
needs to be located closer to public waters than the normal structure setback. Examples include
gazebos, screen houses, fish houses, pump houses, and detached decks and patios.
Water quality impact zone: Land within the shore impact zone or within 50 feet of the OHWL of
the river, whichever is greater, and land within 50 feet of a public water, wetland, or natural
drainage route.
Wetland: Having the meaning given under M.S. § 103G.005.
205.28.04 Administration
1. Permits. A permit is required for the construction of buildings, building additions, and
structures (including construction of decks and signs), vegetation removal consistent with
Section 205.28.11 and land alteration consistent with Section 205.28.12.
2. Variances. Variances to the requirements under this Chapter may only be granted in
accordance with M.S. § 462.357 and must consider the potential impacts on primary
conservation areas, public river corridor views, birds and other wildlife using the Mississippi
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Flyway through habitat loss, collision threats or light pollution, and other resources identified
in the MRCCA plan. In reviewing the variance application, the following shall be considered:
(a) Impacts to the resources listed above. If negative impacts are found, require conditions
to mitigate the impacts that are related to and proportional to the impacts consistent with
Section 205.28.04.04; and
(b) Make written findings that the variance is consistent with the purpose of this Chapter.
3. Special and interim use permits. All special and interim uses, required under this Chapter,
must comply with M.S. § 462.3595 and must consider the potential impacts on primary
conservation areas, public river corridor views, birds and other wildlife using the Mississippi
Flyway through habitat loss, collision threats or light pollution, public access, and other
resources identified in the MRCCA plan. In reviewing the application, the following shall be
considered:
(a) Impacts to the resources listed above. If negative impacts are found, require conditions
to mitigate the impacts that are related to and proportional to the impacts consistent with
Section 205.28.04.04; and
(b) Make written findings that the special and interim use permit is consistent with the
purpose of this Chapter.
4. Mitigation of impacts. Negative impacts to primary conservation areas, public river corridor
views, and other resources identified in the MRCCA Plan occurring due to variances, special
use permits, or interim use permits must be mitigated for in a way that is related to and
proportional to the impacts. Mitigation may include:
(a) Restoration of vegetation;
(b) Implementation of animal habitat support as outlined in the most recent version of the
Minnesota B3 Guidelines;
(c) Increasing and/or improving habitat for pollinators, birds, and other wildlife using
native trees, shrubs, and vegetation;
(d) Expansion of public access;
(e) Preservation of existing vegetation;
(f) Storm water runoff management;
(g) Reducing impervious surface;
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(h) Increasing structure setbacks;
(i) Wetland and drainage route restoration and/or preservation;
(j) Limiting the height of structures;
(k) Modifying structure design to limit visual impacts on public river corridor views; and
(l) Other conservation measures
5. Application materials. Applications for permits and discretionary actions required under this
Chapter must submit the following information unless the City Manager or their designee
determines that the information is not needed.
(a) A detailed project description; and
(b) Scaled maps and plans, dimensional renderings, maintenance agreements, and other
materials that identify and describe:
(1) Primary conservation areas;
(2) Public river corridor views;
(3) Buildable area;
(4) Proposed size, alignment, height, and intended use of any structure to be erected
or located on the site;
(5) A delineation of the location and amounts of excavated soils to be stored on the
site during construction;
(6) Existing and proposed topography and drainage patterns;
(7) Proposed storm water and erosion and sediment control practices;
(8) A description of flora and fauna which occupy the site or are occasionally found
thereon, setting forth in detail those areas where unique plant or animal species may
be found on site;
(9) Existing and proposed vegetation to be removed and established;
(10) Ordinary high water level, blufflines, and all required setbacks;
(11) Existing and proposed impervious surfaces as well as surfacing to be used; and
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(12) Any other information pertinent to the particular project which in the opinion of
the City or applicant is necessary or helpful for the review of the project.
6. Nonconformities
(a) All legally established nonconformities as of the date of this ordinance may continue
consistent with M.S. § 462.357, Subd. 1e.
(b) Site alterations and expansion of site alterations that were legally made prior to the
effective date of this ordinance are conforming. Site alterations include vegetation, erosion
control, storm water control measures, and other nonstructural site improvements.
(c) Legally nonconforming principal structures that do not meet the setback requirements
of Section 205.28.07.03 may be expanded laterally provided that:
(1) The expansion does not extend into the shore or bluff impact zone or further into
the required setback than the building line of the existing principal structure (See
Figure 6); and
(2)
structure and existing surrounding development.
Figure 6. Expansion of Nonconforming Structure
7. Notifications
(a) Amendments to this Chapter and to the MRCCA plan must be submitted to the
Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources (DNR) as provided in Minnesota
Rules Part 6106.0070, Subp. 3, Items B I.
(b) Notice of public hearings for discretionary actions, including special and interim use
permits, variances, appeals, rezonings, preliminary plats, final subdivision plats, and PUDs,
must be sent to the following entities at least 10 days prior to the hearing:
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(1) The Commissioner of the DNR in a format prescribed by the DNR;
(2) National Park Service; and
(3) Where building heights exceed the height limits specified in Section 205.28.07.01
as part of the special use or variance process, adjoining local governments within the
MRCCA, including those with overlapping jurisdiction and those across the river.
(c) Notice of final decisions for actions in Section 205.28.04.07.B, including findings of fact,
must be sent to the Commissioner of the DNR, the National Park Service, and adjoining
local governments within the MRCCA within ten (10) days of the final decision.
(d) Requests to amend district boundaries must follow the provisions in Minnesota Rules
Part 6106.0100, Subp. 9, Item C.
8. Accommodating disabilities. Reasonable accommodations for ramps or other facilities to
Americans with Disabilities Act and the federal Fair Housing Act and as provided by Minnesota
Rules Chapter 1341, must:
(a) Comply with Sections 205.28.07-205.28.14; or
(b) If Sections 205.28.07-205.28.14 cannot be complied with, ramps or other facilities are
allowed with a Reasonable Accommodation License provided:
(1) The license terminates on either a specific date or upon occurrence of a particular
event related to the person requiring accommodation; and
(2) Upon expiration of the permit, the ramp or other facilities must be removed.
205.28.05 MRCCA Districts
1. District description and management purpose. The MRCCA within Fridley is divided into the
following MRCCA districts:
(a) Rural and Open Space (ROS)
The Rural and Open Space District is characterized by rural and low-density development
patterns and land uses and includes land that is riparian or visible from the river, as well
as large, undeveloped tracts of high ecological and scenic value, floodplain, and
undeveloped islands. Many primary conservation areas exist in the district.
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The Rural and Open Space District must be managed to sustain and restore the rural and
natural character of the corridor and to protect and enhance habitat, parks and open
space, public river corridor views, and scenic, natural, and historic areas.
(b) River Neighborhood (RN)
The River Neighborhood District is characterized by primarily residential neighborhoods
that are riparian or readily visible from the river or that abut riparian parkland. The district
includes parks and open space, limited commercial development, marinas, and related
land uses.
The River Neighborhood District must be managed to maintain the character of the river
corridor within the context of existing residential and related neighborhood development,
and to protect and enhance habitat, parks and open space, public river corridor views, and
scenic, natural, and historic areas. Minimizing erosion and the flow of untreated storm
water into the river and enhancing habitat and shoreline vegetation are priorities in the
district.
(c) Separated from River (SR)
The Separated from River District is characterized by its physical and visual distance from
the Mississippi River. The district includes land separated from the river by distance,
topography, development, or a transportation corridor. The land in this district is not
readily visible from the Mississippi River.
The Separated from River district provides flexibility in managing development without
negatively affecting the key resources and features of the river corridor. Minimizing
negative impacts to primary conservation areas and minimizing erosion and flow of
untreated storm water into the Mississippi River are priorities in the district. The SR district
must be managed in a manner that allows continued growth and redevelopment in historic
downtowns and more intensive redevelopment in limited areas at river crossings to
accommodate compact walkable development patterns and connections to the river.
Minimizing erosion and the flow of untreated storm water into the river, providing public
access to and public views of the river, and restoring natural vegetation in riparian areas
and tree canopy are priorities in the district.
2. Urban Mixed (UM)
The Urban Mixed District includes large areas of highly urbanized mixed use that are a part of
the urban fabric of the river corridor, including institutional, commercial, industrial, and
residential areas and parks and open space.
The Urban Mixed District must be managed in a manner that allows for future growth and
potential transition of intensely developed areas that does not negatively affect public river
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corridor views and that protects bluffs and floodplains. Restoring and enhancing bluff and
shoreline habitat, minimizing erosion and flow of untreated storm water into the river, and
providing public access to and public views of the river are priorities in the district.
3. MRCCA district map
The locations and boundaries of the MRCCA districts established by this Chapter are shown
on the Critical Area Overlay District Map, which is incorporated herein by reference. The district
boundary lines are intended to follow the centerlines of rivers and streams, highways, streets,
lot lines, and municipal boundaries, unless a boundary line is otherwise indicated on the map.
Where district boundaries cross unsubdivided property, the district boundary line is
determined by use of dimensions or the scale appearing on the map.
205.28.06 Special Land Use Provisions
1. Uses excluded. The following uses are excluded from the MRCCA:
(a) Any use that is excluded within the underlying zoning district;
(b) Any barge fleeting or barge loading;
(c) Any solid waste storage use or treatment facilities;
(d) Any mining or extraction uses other than the soil preparation or peat removal necessary
for construction;
(e) The construction of new subsurface sewage treatment systems;
(f) Agricultural use unless perennial ground cover is provided within at least 50 feet of the
ordinary high water level and within the bluff impact zone; and
(g) Tree harvesting and biomass harvesting within woodlands, and associated
reforestation, unless it is conducted consistent with recommended practices in Conserving
Wooded Areas in Developing Communities: Best Management Practices in Minnesota.
2. River-dependent uses. River-dependent uses must comply with the following design
standards:
(a) Structures and parking areas, except shoreline facilities and private roads and
conveyances serving river-dependent uses as provided in Section 205.28.14, must meet
the dimensional and performance standards in this Chapter, must be designed so that they
are not readily visible, and must be screened by establishing and maintaining natural
vegetation;
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(b) Shoreline facilities must comply with Minnesota Rules Chapter 6115 and must:
(1) Minimize the shoreline area affected in so far as feasible; and
(2) Minimize the surface area of land occupied in relation to the number of watercrafts
to be served;
(c) Dredging and placement of dredged material are subject to existing federal and state
permit requirements and agreements.
3. Wireless communication towers
(a) Wireless towers that existed in the MRCCA prior to the approval of this chapter are
considered legally nonconforming.
(b) New wireless communication towers or physical modification of an existing wireless
communication towers that results in an increase in the intensity of the nonconforming
use require a special use permit and are subject to the following design standards:
(1) The applicant must demonstrate that functional coverage cannot be provided
through co-location, a tower at a lower height, or a tower at a location outside of the
MRCCA;
(2) Freestanding towers must not be located in a bluff or shore impact zone;
(3) Placement of the tower must minimize impacts on public river corridor views; and
(4) Comply with the general design standards in Section 205.28.09.01.
205.28.07 Structure Height, Placement, and Lot Size
1. Structure height. Structures and facilities must comply with the following standards or the
underlying development standard, whichever is lower, unless identified as exempt in Section
205.28.14. Height is measured on the side of the structure facing the Mississippi River:
(a) River and Open Space District: 35 feet
(b) River Neighborhood District: 35 feet
(c) Separated from River District: Height is determined by underlying development
standard, provided the allowed height is consistent with that of the mature treeline, where
present, and existing surrounding development, as viewed from the OWHL of the opposite
shore.
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(d) Urban Mixed District: 65 feet, provided tiering of structures away from the Mississippi
River and from blufflines is given priority, with lower structure heights closer to the river
and blufflines, and that structure design and placement minimize interference with public
river corridor views. Structures over 65 feet are allowed as a Special Use according to
Section 205.28.07.02.
2. In addition to the variance or special use requirements of Section 205.28.04.04, criteria for
considering whether to grant a variance or special use permit for structures exceeding the
height limits must include:
(a) Assessment of the visual impact of the proposed structure on public river corridor
views, including views from other communities;
(b) Identification and application of techniques to minimize the perceived bulk of the
proposed structure, such as:
(1) Placing the long axis of the building perpendicular to the river;
(2) Stepping back of portions of the facade;
(3) Lowering the roof pitch or use of a flat roof;
(4) Using building materials or mitigation techniques that will blend in with the natural
surrounds;
(5) Implementation of animal habitat support as outlined in the most recent version of
the Minnesota B3 Guidelines;
(6) Narrowing the profile of upper floors of the building; or
(7) Increasing the setbacks of the building from the Mississippi River or blufflines;
(8) Opportunities for creation or enhancement of public river corridor views
3. Structure and impervious surface placement.
(a) Structures and impervious surface must not be placed in the shore or bluff impact zones
unless identified as an exemption in Section 205.28.14.
(b) Structures, impervious surfaces, and facilities must comply with the following OHWL
setback provisions unless identified as exempt in Section 205.28.14:
(1) Rural and Open Space District: 200 feet from the Mississippi River
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(2) River Neighborhood District: 100 feet from the Mississippi River
(3) Urban Mixed District: 50 feet from the Mississippi River
(c) Structures, impervious surfaces, and facilities must comply with the following bluffline
setback provisions unless identified as exempt in Section 205.28.14:
(1) Rural and Open Space District: 100 feet
(2) River Neighborhood District: 40 feet
(3) Separated from River District: 40 feet
(4) Urban Mixed District: 40 feet
(5) Oak Glen Creek, Rice Creek, Springbrook Creek, Stonybrook Creek: 50 feet
(d) Impervious surface lot coverage shall not exceed 35% on any lot within the Shoreland
Overlay District except as a variance which shall comply with the following standards:
(1) The lot shall provide for the collection and treatment of stormwater in compliance
with Stormwater Management and Erosion Control Chapter; and
(2) Measures shall be taken for the treatment of stormwater runoff and/or prevention
of stormwater from directly entering a public water.
4. Lot size and buildable area.
(a) The width of lots abutting the Mississippi River in the ROS District must be at least 200
feet, unless alternative design methods are used that provide greater protection of the
riparian area.
(b) All new lots must have adequate buildable area to comply with the setback
requirements of Sections Section 205.28.07.01 and Section 205.28.07.03 so as to not
require variances to use the lots for their intended purpose.
205.28.08 Performance Standards for Private Facilities
1. General design standards. All private facilities must be developed in accordance with the
vegetation management and land alteration requirements in Sections 205.28.11 and 205.28.12.
2. Private roads, driveways, and parking areas. Except as provided in Section 205.28.14, private
roads, driveways and parking areas must:
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(a) Be designed to take advantage of natural vegetation and topography so that they are
not readily visible from the river;
(b) Comply with structure and impervious surface setback requirements according to
Section 205.28.07.03; and
(c) Not be placed within the bluff impact zone or shore impact zone, unless exempt under
Section 205.28.14 and designed consistent with Section 205.28.09.01.
3. Private water access and viewing facilities.
(a) Private access paths must be no more than:
(1) Eight feet wide, if placed within the shore impact zone; and
(2) Four feet wide, if placed within the bluff impact zone.
(b) Private water access ramps must:
(1) Comply with Minnesota Rules Parts 6115.0210 and 6280.0250; and
(2) Be designed and constructed consistent with the applicable standards in the most
current version of the Design Handbook for Recreational Boating and Fishing Facilities.
(c) Design and construction of land-based private stairways, lifts, and landings are subject
to the following standards:
(1) Stairways and lifts must not exceed four feet in width on residential lots. Wider
stairways may be approved for commercial properties and residential facilities held in
common;
(2) Landings for stairways and lifts on residential lots must not exceed 32 square feet
in area. Landings larger than 32 square feet area may be approved for commercial
properties and residential facilities held in common;
(3) Canopies or roofs are prohibited on stairways, lifts, or landings;
(4) Stairways, lifts, and landings must be located in the least visible portion of the lot
whenever practical; and
(5) Ramps, lifts, mobility paths, or other facilities for persons with physical disabilities
are allowed for achieving access to shore areas according to 205.28.08.3.C 1-4, and as
provided under Section 205.28.04.08.
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(d) One water-oriented accessory structure is allowed for each riparian lot or parcel less
than 300 feet in width at the ordinary high water level, with one additional water-oriented
accessory structure allowed for each additional 300 feet of shoreline on the same lot or
parcel. Water-oriented accessory structures are prohibited in the bluff impact zone and
must:
(1) Not exceed 12 feet in height;
(2) Not exceed 120 square feet in area; and
(3) Be placed a minimum of 10 feet from the ordinary high water level.
3. Decks and patios in setback areas. Decks and at-grade patios may encroach into the
required setbacks from the ordinary high water level and blufflines without a variance, when
consistent with Sections 205.28.11 and 205.28.12, provided that:
(a) The encroachment of the deck or patio into the required setback area does not exceed
15% of the required structure setback;
(b) The area of the deck or patio that extends into the required setback area occupies no
more than 25% of the total area between the required setback and the 15% using the
formula:
Required setback depth (feet) x 0.15 x lot width at setback (feet) x 0.25 = maximum total
area.
(c) The deck or patio does not extend into the bluff impact zone. See Figure 7.
Figure 7. Deck and Patio Encroachment
4. Off-Premise and Directional Signs
(a) Off-premise advertising signs must:
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(1) Meet required structure height and placement standards in Sections
205.28.07.01 and 205.28.07.03.
(2) Not be readily visible from the river
(b) Directional signs for patrons arriving at a business by watercraft must comply with the
following standards:
(1) They must be consistent with M.S. § 86B.115.
(2) Only convey the location and name of the establishment and the general types of
goods and services available, if located in a shore impact zone.
(3) Be no greater than ten feet in height and 32 square feet in surface area; and
(4) If illuminated, the lighting must be shielded and directed downward to prevent
illumination out across the river or to the sky.
5. Lighting. Within the Shore Impact Zone:
(a) Lighting shall be fully shielded and directed away from the river.
(b) Uplighting is prohibited.
6. Line of Sight. The development of new, or the expansion of existing structures, shall be
placed so that the development is consistent with the preservation of the view of the river
corridor from other properties on both sides of the river and by the public. The walling off of
views of the river corridor from other properties and public right-of-ways shall be prohibited.
205.28.09 Performance Standards for Public Facilities
1. General design standards. All public facilities must be designed and constructed to:
(a) Minimize visibility of the facility from the river to the extent consistent with the purpose
of the facility;
(b) Comply with the structure placement and height standards in Section 205.28.07, except
as provided in Section 205.28.14;
(c) Be consistent with the vegetation management standards in 205.28.11 and the land
alteration and storm water management standards in Section 205.28.12, including use of
practices identified in Best Practices for Meeting DNR General Public Waters Work Permit
GP 2004-0001, where applicable; and
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(d) Avoid primary conservation areas, unless no alternative exists. If no alternative exists,
then disturbance to primary conservation areas must be avoided to the greatest extent
practicable, and design and construction must minimize impacts.
(e) Where feasible, minimize disturbance of spawning and nesting times by scheduling
construction at times when local fish and wildlife are not spawning or testing in areas
where this activity is known to occur.
2. Right-of-way maintenance standards. Right-of-way maintenance must comply with the
following standards:
(a) Vegetation currently in a natural state must be maintained to the extent feasible;
(b) Where vegetation in a natural state has been removed, native plants must be planted
and maintained on the right-of-way; and
(c) Chemical control of vegetation must be avoided when practicable, but when chemical
control is necessary, chemicals used must be in accordance with the regulations and other
requirements of all state and federal agencies wit
3. Crossings of public water or public land. Crossings of public waters or land controlled by
the commissioner are subject to approval by the commissioner according to M.S. § 84.415 and
103G.245.
4. Public utilities. Public utilities must comply with the following standards:
(a) High-voltage transmission lines, wind energy conversion systems greater than five
megawatts, and pipelines are regulated according to Minnesota Statutes Chapter 216E,
216F, and 216G respectively;
(b) Primary consideration shall be given to underground placement of facilities in order to
minimize aesthetic, environmental and public safety aspects. When considering overhead
placement, the developer must show the reasoning that makes underground placement
unfeasible;
(c) If underground placement is unfeasible, visibility of the facility from the river must be
minimized as much as practicable; and
(d) The appearance of structures must be as compatible as practicable with the
surrounding area in a natural state with regard to height and width, materials used, and
color.
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5. Public transportation facilities. Public transportation facilities shall comply with structure
placement and height standards in Section 205.28.07 except as provided in Section 205.28.14.
Where such facilities intersect or abut two or more MRCCA districts, the least restrictive
standards apply. Public transportation facilities must be designed and constructed to give
priority to:
(a) Providing scenic overlooks for motorists, bicyclists, and pedestrians;
(b) Providing safe pedestrian crossings and facilities along the river corridor;
(c) Providing access to the riverfront in public ownership; and
(d) Allowing for use of the land between the river and the transportation facility.
6. Public recreational facilities. Public recreational facilities must comply with the following
standards:
(a) Buildings and parking associated with public recreational facilities must comply with
the structure placement and height standards in Section 205.28.07, except as provided in
Section 205.28.14;
(b) Roads and driveways associated with public recreational facilities must not be placed
in the bluff or shore impact zones unless no other placement alternative exists. If no
alternative exists, then design and construction must minimize impacts to shoreline
vegetation, erodible soils and slopes, and other sensitive resources;
(c) Trails, access paths, and viewing areas associated with public recreational facilities and
providing access to or views of the Mississippi River are allowed within the bluff and shore
impact zones if design, construction, and maintenance methods are consistent with the
best management practice guidelines in Trail Planning, Design, and Development
Guidelines:
(1) Hard-surface trails are not allowed on the face of bluffs with a slope exceeding 30%.
Natural surface trails are allowed, provided they do not exceed eight feet in width.
(2) Trails, paths, and viewing areas must be designed and constructed to minimize:
((a)) Visibility from the river;
((b)) Visual impacts on public river corridor views; and
((c)) Disturbance to and fragmentation of primary conservation areas.
(d) Public water access facilities must comply with the following requirements:
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(1) Watercraft access ramps must comply with Minnesota Rules Chapters 6115.0210 and
6280.0250; and
(2) Facilities must be designed and constructed consistent with the standards in the
Design Handbook for Recreational Boating
and Fishing Facilities.
(e) Public signs and kiosks for interpretive or directional purposes are allowed in the bluff
or shore impact zones, provided they are placed and constructed to minimize disturbance
to these areas and avoid visual impacts on public river corridor views; and
(f) Public stairways, lifts, and landings must be designed as provided in Section
205.28.08.03.C.
205.28.10 Public Access
1. Public river access to and along the river shall be provided for any new development that
is adjacent to or part of a city plan including public access.
2. Public river access shall be provided to the riverfront of developments on publicly owned
and publicly controlled riverfront property where feasible.
205.28.11 Vegetation Management
1. Applicability. This section applies to:
(a) Shore impact zones;
(b) Areas within 50 feet of a wetland or natural drainage route;
(c) Bluff impact zones;
(d) Areas of native plant communities; and
(e) Significant existing vegetative stands identified in the MRCCA plan
2. General performance standards for vegetation management
(a) Development must be sited to minimize removal of or disturbance to natural
vegetation;
(b) Soil, slope stability, and hydrologic conditions are considered suitable for the proposed
work as determined by the City Manager or their designee.
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(c) Clearing is the minimum necessary and designed to blend with the natural terrain and
minimize visual impacts to public river corridor views;
(d) Vegetation removal activities are conducted so as to expose the smallest practical area
of soil to erosion for the least possible time; and
(e) If grading which takes place will be conducted in a manner that preserves the root zone
aeration and stability of existing trees and provides an adequate watering area equal to at
least one-half of each tree crown cover or else a replacement tree shall be provided.
3. Activities allowed without a permit:
(a) Maintenance of existing lawns, landscaping and gardens;
(b) Removal of vegetation in emergency situations as determined by the City Manager or
their designee;
(c) Right-of-way maintenance for public facilities meeting the standards Section
205.28.09.02
(d) Agricultural and forestry activities meeting the standards of Sections 205.28.06.01.F and
205.28.06.01.G;
(f) Selective vegetation removal of trees provided that vegetative cover as viewed from the
river remains consistent with the management purpose of the MRCCA district and trees
are replaced in conformance with 205.28.11.06.
4. Activities allowed with a permit. Only the following intensive vegetation clearing activities
are allowed with a permit, all other forms of intensive vegetation clearing are prohibited:
(a) Clearing of vegetation that is dead, diseased, dying, or hazardous;
(b) Clearing to prevent the spread of diseases or insect pests;
(c) Clearing to remove invasive non-native species;.
(d) Clearing for habitat restoration and erosion control management activities consistent
with an approved plan;
(e) The minimum necessary for development that is allowed with a building permit or as
an exemption under Section 205.28.14.
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5. Vegetation restoration plan. Development of a vegetation restoration plan and
reestablishment of natural vegetation is required:
(a) For any vegetation removed with a permit under Section 205.28.11.04;
(b) Upon failure to comply with any provisions in this section; or
(c) As part of the planning process for subdivisions as provided in Section 205.28.13.
6. Vegetation Restoration Plan Performance Standards. The vegetation restoration plan must
satisfy the application submittal requirements in 205.28.04.05, and:
(a) Vegetation must be restored in one or more of the following restoration priority areas:
(1) Stabilization of erodible soils including with soils showing signs of erosion,
especially on or near the top and bottom of steep slopes and bluffs;
(2) Restoration or enhancement of shoreline vegetation including shoreline areas
within 25 feet of the water with no natural vegetation, degraded vegetation, or planted
with turf grass;
(3) Revegetation of bluffs or steep slopes visible from the river;
(4) Other approved priority opportunity area, including priorities identified in the
MRCCA plan, if none of the above exist.
(b) Include vegetation that provides suitable habitat and effective soil stability, runoff
retention, and infiltration capability. Vegetation species, composition, density, and
diversity must be guided by nearby patches of native plant communities and by Native
Vegetation Establishment and Enhancement Guidelines;
(c) Any highly erodible soils disturbed during removal and/or restoration must be
stabilized with deep-rooted vegetation with a high stem density;
(d) Vegetation removed must be restored with natural vegetation to the greatest extent
practicable. The area (square feet) of the restored vegetation should be similar to that
removed to the greatest extent practicable;
(e) For restoration of removed native plant communities, restored vegetation must also
provide biological and ecological function equivalent to the removed native plant
communities;
(f) Be prepared by a qualified individual except for:
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(1) Vegetation plans required in response to 205.28.11.04.D which must be prepared
by a professional ecologist, landscape architect, or person with demonstrable
experience and knowledge related to vegetation management approved by the City;
and
(2) Include a maintenance plan that includes management provisions for controlling
invasive species and replacement of plant loss for three years.
7. Tree Removal and Replacement
(a) Except for tree removal conducted in accordance with 205.28.04.D with an approved
vegetation restoration plan, any trees over four inches diameter at breast height that are
removed shall be restored with an equal number of trees to that which existed before
cutting by September 30 of the subsequent year.
(b) If insufficient space is available for tree replanting as determined by the City, a
monetary fee may be provided as outlined in the Fees Chapter of the Code.
205.28.12 Land Alteration and Stormwater Management
1. Land alteration
(a) Within the bluff impact zone, land alteration is prohibited, except for the following,
which are allowed with a permit:
(1) Erosion control consistent with a plan approved by the City Manager or their
designee;
(2) The minimum necessary for development that is allowed as an exception under
Section 205.28.14; and
(3) Repair and maintenance of existing buildings and facilities.
(b) Within the water quality impact zone, land alteration that involves more than ten cubic
yards of material or affects an area greater than 1,000 square feet requires a permit.
2. Rock riprap, retaining walls, and other erosion control structures
(a) Construction, repair, or replacement of rock riprap, retaining walls, and other erosion
control structures located at or below the OHWL must comply with Minnesota Rules Part
6115.0215, Subp. 4, item E, and 6115.0216, Subp. 2. Work must not proceed until
necessary approvals by the commissioner, the US Army Corps of Engineers as necessary,
and any other permits are obtained. See Figure 8.
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Figure . Riprap Guidelines
(b) Construction or replacement of rock riprap, retaining walls, and other erosion control
structures within the bluff impact zone and the water quality impact zone are allowed with
a permit consistent with provisions of Section 205.28.12.5 provided that:
(1) If the project includes work at or below the OHWL, the commissioner has already
approved or permitted the project;
(2) The structures are used only to correct an established erosion problem as
determined by the City Engineer or their designee;
(3) The size and extent of the structures are the minimum necessary to correct the
erosion problem and are not larger than the following, unless a professional engineer
determines that a larger structure is needed to correct the erosion problem:
((a)) Retaining walls must not exceed four feet in height;
((b)) Retaining walls must be placed a minimum horizontal distance of twenty feet
apart; and
((c)) Riprap must not exceed the height of the regulatory flood protection elevation.
(c) Repair of existing rock riprap, retaining walls, and other erosion control structures
above the ordinary high water line does not require a permit provided it does not involve
any land alteration.
3.!Storm water management.
(a) In the bluff impact zone, storm water management facilities are prohibited, except by
permit if:
(1) There are no alternatives for storm water treatment outside the bluff impact zone
on the subject site;
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(2) The site generating runoff is designed so that the amount of runoff reaching the
bluff impact zone is reduced to the greatest extent practicable;
(3) The construction and operation of the facility does not affect slope stability on the
subject property or adjacent properties; and
(4) Mitigation based on the best available engineering and geological practices is
required and applied to eliminate or minimize the risk of slope failure.
(b) In the water quality impact zone, development that creates new impervious surface,
as allowed by exemption in Section 205.28.14, or fully reconstructs existing impervious
surface of more than 10,000 square feet requires a permit. Multipurpose trails and
sidewalks are exempt if there is down gradient vegetation or a filter strip that is at least
five feet wide.
(c) In all other areas, storm water runoff must be directed away from the bluff impact
zones or unstable areas.
4.!Development on steep slopes.
Construction of structures, impervious surfaces, land alteration, vegetation removal, or other
construction activities are allowed on steep slopes if:
(a) The development can be accomplished without increasing erosion or storm water
runoff;
(b) The soil types and geology are suitable for the proposed development; and
(c) Vegetation is managed according to the requirements of 205.28.11.
5. Conditions of land alteration permit approval within the Critical Area
(a) Temporary and permanent erosion and sediment control measures retain sediment
onsite consistent with best management practices in the Minnesota Stormwater Manual;
(b) Natural site topography, soil, and vegetation conditions are used to control runoff and
reduce erosion and sedimentation;
(c) Construction activity is phased when possible;
(d) All erosion and sediment controls are installed before starting any land alteration;
(e) Erosion and sediment controls are maintained during construction to ensure effective
operation;
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(f) The proposed work is consistent with the vegetation standards in 205.28.11; and
(g) Best management practices for protecting and enhancing ecological and water
resources identified in Best Practices for Meeting DNR General Public Waters Work Permit
GP 2004-0001.
6. Compliance with other plans and programs. All land alteration must:
(a) Be consistent with Minnesota Statutes Chapter 103B, and local water management
plans completed under Minnesota Statutes Chapter 8410;
(b) Meet or exceed the wetland protection standards under Minnesota Rules Chapter 8420;
(c) Comply with the Floodplain Management Overlay District Chapter; and,
(d) Comply with the Stormwater Management and Erosion Control Chapter.
205.28.13 Subdivisions
1. The design standards in this section apply to subdivisions, planned unit developments
and master- planned development and redevelopment of land involving ten or more acres
for contiguous parcels that abut the Mississippi River and 20 or more acres for all other
parcels, including smaller individual sites within the these developments that are part of a
common plan of development that may be constructed at different times.
2. The following activities are exempt from the requirements of this section:
(a) Minor subdivisions consisting of three or fewer lots;
(b) Minor boundary line corrections;
(c) Resolutions of encroachments;
(d) Additions to existing lots of record;
(e) Placement of essential services; and
(f) Activities involving river-dependent commercial and industrial uses.
3. Project information listed in Section 205.28.04.05 must be submitted for all proposed
developments.
4. Design standards.
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(a) Primary conservation areas, where they exist, must be set aside and designated as
protected open space in quantities meeting the following as a percentage of total parcel
area:
(1) CA-ROS District: 50%;
(2) CA-RN District: 20%;
(3) CA-UM: 10%; and
(4) CA-SR District: 10% if the parcel includes native plant communities or provides
feasible connections to a park or trail system, otherwise no requirement.
(b) If the primary conservation areas exceed the amounts specified in Section 205.28.13.04,
then protection of native plant communities and natural vegetation in riparian areas shall
be prioritized.
(c) If primary conservation areas exist but do not have natural vegetation (identified as
restoration priorities in the MRCCA Plan), then a vegetation assessment must be
completed to evaluate the unvegetated primary conservation areas and determine
whether vegetation restoration is needed. If restoration is needed, vegetation must be
restored according to Section 205.28.11.04.
(d) If primary conservation areas do not exist on the parcel and portions of the parcel have
been identified in the MRCCA plan as a restoration area, vegetation must be restored in
the identified areas according to Section 205.28.11.04 and the area must be set aside and
designated as protected open space.
(e) Storm water treatment areas or other green infrastructure may be used to meet the
protected open space requirements if the vegetation provides biological and ecological
functions.
(f) Land dedicated under the Subdivision Chapter for public river access, parks, or other
open space or public facilities may be counted toward the protected open space
requirement.
(g) Protected open space areas must connect open space, natural areas, and recreational
areas, where present on adjacent parcels, as much as possible to form an interconnected
network.
5. Permanent protection of designated open space
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(a) Designated open space areas must be protected through one or more of the following
methods:
(1) Public acquisition by a government entity for conservation purposes;
(2) A permanent conservation easement, as provided in Minnesota Statutes Chapter
84C;
(3) A deed restriction; or
(4) Other arrangements that achieve an equivalent degree of protection.
(b) Permanent protection methods must ensure the long-term management of vegetation
to meet its biological and ecological functions, prohibit structures, and prohibit land
alteration, except as needed to provide public recreational facilities and access to the river.
6. Alternative design standards. Applicants are encouraged to propose alternative design
methods that achieve better protection or restoration of primary conservation areas.
Methods may include protection and restoration of continuous vegetation, preventing the
fragmentation of vegetation, concentration of density in exchange for higher levels of open
space protection, or other zoning and site design techniques.
205.28.14 Exemptions
1. Applicability
(a) Uses and activities not specifically exempted must comply with this Chapter. Uses and
activities exempted under shore impact zone and bluff impact zone must comply with the
vegetation management and land alteration standards in Sections 205.28.11 and
205.28.12.
(b) Uses and activities in Section 205.28.14.02 are categorized as:
(1) Exempt E. This means that the use or activity is allowed;
(2) Exempt if no alternative - (E). This means that the use or activity is allowed only if
no alternatives exist; and
(3) Not exempt - N. This means that a use or activity is not exempt and must meet the
standards of this ordinance.
2. Use and activity exemptions classification.
(a) General uses and activities.
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Use or Activity Set HeighSIBIApplicable standards with
backs t Z Z which the use or activity
Limits must comply
Industrial and utility structures requiring N E N N Structure design and
greater height for operational reasons placement must minimize
(such as elevators, refineries and railroad interference with public river
signaling towers) corridor views.
Barns, silos, and farm structures N E N N
Bridges and bridge approach roadways E E E (E) Section 205.28.09
Wireless communication towers E E N N Section 205.28.06.03
Chimneys, religious spires, flag poles, N E N N
public monuments, and mechanical stacks
and equipment
Historic properties and contributing E E E E Exemptions do not apply to
properties in historic districts additions or site alterations
(b) Public utilities.
Use or Activity Set HeighSIBIApplicable standards with
backs t Z Z which the use or activity
Limits must comply
Electrical power facilities E E E (E) Section 205.28.09
Essential services (other than storm water E E E (E) Section 205.28.09
facilities)
Storm water facilities E N E (E) Section 205.28.12
Wastewater treatment E N E N Section 205.28.09
Public transportation facilities E N (E) (E) Section 205.28.09
(c) Public recreational facilities.
Use or Activity Set HeighSIBIApplicable standards with
backs t Z Z which the use or activity
Limits must comply
Accessory structures, such as monuments, E E (E) (E) Section 205.28.09; within
flagpoles, light standards, and similar park BIZ, only on slopes
features averaging less than 30%.
Exemptions do not apply to
principal structures.
Picnic shelters and other open-sided E N (E) N Section 205.28.09
structures
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Use or Activity Set HeighSIBIApplicable standards with
backs t Z Z which the use or activity
Limits must comply
Parking lots (E) N (E) (E) Section 205.28.09; within
BIZ, only within 20 feet of
toe of bluff; not on face of
bluff; and must not affect
stability of bluff
Roads and driveways (E) N (E) (E) Section 205.28.09
Natural-surfaced trails, access paths, and E N E E Section 205.28.09
viewing areas
Hard-surfaced trails and viewing platforms E N E (E) Section 205.28.09; within
BIZ, only on slopes
averaging less than 30%
Water access ramps E N E (E) Section 205.28.09
Public signs and kiosks for interpretive or E N E (E) Section 205.28.09
directional purposes
(d) River-dependent uses.
Use or Activity Set HeighSIBIApplicable standards with
backs t Z Z which the use or activity
Limits must comply
Shoreline facilities E N( E (E) Section 5.25. Exemptions do
not apply to buildings,
structures, and parking
areas that are not part of a
shoreline facility. River-
dependent commercial,
industrial, and utility
structures are exempt from
height limits only if greater
height is required for
operational reasons.
Private roads and conveyance structures E N E (E) Section 5.25; River-
serving river-dependent uses dependent commercial,
industrial, and utility
structures are exempt from
height limits only if greater
height is required for
operational reasons.
(e) Private residential and commercial water access and use facilities.
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Use or Activity Set HeighSIBIApplicable standards with
backs t Z Z which the use or activity
Limits must comply
Private roads serving 3 or more lots (E) N N (E) Section 205.28.08; in BIZ,
only on slopes averaging
less than 30%. Exemption
does not apply to private
roads serving fewer 3 lots or
to private driveways and
parking areas
Access paths E N E E Section 205.28.08
Water access ramps E N E N Section 205.28.08
Stairways, lifts, and landings E N E E Section 205.28.08
Water-oriented accessory structures E N E N Section 205.28.08
Patios and decks E N N N Section 205.28.08.04
Directional signs for watercraft (private) E N E N Section 205.28.08.05;
exemption does not apply
to off-premise advertising
signs
Temporary storage of docks, boats, and E N E N
other equipment during the winter months
Erosion control structures, such as rock E N E (E) Section 205.28.12.2
riprap and retaining walls
Flood control structures E N E (E) Section 205.28.12
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RECODIFICATION REPORT
The following is a summary of changes to the Critical Area Chapter. Optional changes that are above
the standards of the model ordinance are noted in italics. Comments are included in bold.
Substantive Changes
Section NumberCurrent CodeProposed Changes
205.28.01Describes the purpose Updates the purpose and intent to reference the
and intent of the authorizing state statute
chapter
205.28.02.1205-28.02 describes Adds a reference to the underlying document which
defines the
boundaries
205.28.02.2NoneMaintains the remainder of the chapter is not affected if a
portion is found unconstitutional
205.28.02.3NoneClarifies that the provisions of this chapter prevail if they
are more restrictive than provisions in otherchapters of
City Code
205.28.03205.28.03 Provides The following changes were made to definitions used in
definitions for terms this chapter
used in the code
Model Ordinance
Model Ordinance
MRCCA Model Ordinance
MRCCA Model Ordinance
based on MRCCA Model Ordinance
model ordinance(Note: Our current code establishes
a bluff as having 12% slope vs. 18%).
area within 20 feet of the bluff
Adds a defin
Model Ordinance
Model Ordinance
Model Ordinance
Model Ordinance
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RECODIFICATION REPORT
Commissioner
Model Ordinance
MRCCA Model Ordinance
on MRCCA Model Ordinance
Removes the definition for Critical Area
Ordinance
Statue
State Statute
MRCCA Model Ordinance
Ordinance
MRCCA Model Ordinance
Updates the definition of essential services to include
sanitary sewer, stormwater, and communications
services. Clarifies that the services also include
collection supply and disposal systems. Excludes
buildings, treatment works, electric power facilities, or
transmission services.
Statute
MRCCA Model Ordinance
MRCCA Model Ordinance
Adds a definition for
MRCCA Model Ordinance
MRCCA Model Ordinance
based on MRCCA Model Ordinance
interim useRCCA
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RECODIFICATION REPORT
Model Ordinance
alteration
Model Ordinance
Model Ordinance
Statute
Mississippi Flywaybased on
recommendations from the Minneapolis Audubon
Society
mooring
Model Ordinance
on MRCCA Model Ordinance
on
MRCCA Model Ordinance
MRCCA Model Ordinance
MRCCA Model Ordinance
-
based on MRCCA Model Ordinance
reference State Statute
parcel
Ordinance
Ordinance
Model Ordinance
planned unit development
based on MRCCA Model Ordinance
based on MRCCA Model Ordinance
MRCCA Model Ordinance
Ordinance
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RECODIFICATION REPORT
on MRCCA Model Ordinance
based on MRCCA Model Ordinance
the definition to remove solid waste.
Statute
Model Ordinance
MRCCA Model Ordinance
Updates the definition for retaining wall to clarify that
the structure is in a vertical or near vertical position and
specify material type
Model Ordinance
on State Statute
Adds a def
MRCCA Model Ordinance
based on MRCCA Model Ordinance
setback
Ordinance
sed on
MRCCA Model Ordinance
Chapter
MRCCA Model Ordinance
s.
208.
Model Ordinance
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RECODIFICATION REPORT
subsurface sewage treatment
systemMRCCA Model Ordinance
Removes the definition for terrace
the MRCCA Model Ordinance
the MRCCA Model Ordinance
on the MRCCA
Model Ordinance
variance
Model Ordinance
MRCCA Model Ordinance
Adds a def
on the MRCCA Model Ordinance
State Statute
205.28.04.01205.28.06 specifies Adds permittrigger which create the need for a new
actions that require a permit, removes the explicit exemption for single family
permithomes to submit a site plan if needed; however,
205.28.04.05 provides the discretion to determinethat
application materials would not be required.
205.28.04.2NoneRequires that variances consider the impacts on
primary conservation areas, public river corridor views,
mitigate for these potential impacts, and make written
findings that the varianceis consistent with the purpose of
the chapter.
Adds impacts on wildlife using the Mississippi Flyway
and public access at the recommendation of the Minneapolis
Audubon Chapter
205.28.04.3NoneRequires that special use permits consider the impacts
on primary conservation areas, public river corridor
views, mitigate for these potential impacts, and make
written findings that the special use is consistent with
the purpose of the chapter.
Adds impacts on wildlife using the Mississippi Flyway
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RECODIFICATION REPORT
and public access at the recommendation of the
Minneapolis Audubon Chapter
205.28.04.4None Provides guidance on how negative impacts may be
mitigated (optional language)
205.28.04.5205.28.07 outlined site Adds mapping of primary conservation areas, public river
plan requirementscorridor views as site plan requirements
205.28.4.6NoneSpecifies treatment of nonconformities including:
Allowing the lateral expansion of legally
nonconforming structuresprovided that the expansion
does not extend further into the required setback and
the expansion is consistent with the original structure
and surrounding development
205.28.04.7205.28.08.C.4 requires Expands notification to be for all public hearings to any
the DNR and EQB to discretionary action as well as for final decisions
be notified of variance Expands notification to the DNR and NPS as well as
requests to setback adjoining local governments when the discretionary
requirementsaction is related tobuilding height
Establishes provisions to change the MRCCA boundary
Removes notification requirement to the EQB
205.28.04.8NoneAllows for accommodations under the Americans with
Disabilities Act through an administrative permit
205.28.05NoneDescribes MRCCA districts and management purposes
205.28.06.1205.28.05 specifies Clarifies that soil preparation and peat extraction is only
what uses are allowed as necessary for development
excludedReiterates that new subsurface sewage treatment
systems are not allowed
205.28.06.2NoneRequires river dependent uses to:
Not be readily visible except for those structures listed
as exempt
Be designed in a compact fashion
References state and federal rule with regards to
dredging material
205.28.06.3NoneRequires new or modified wireless communication towers
installed in the MRCCA after approval of this ordinance
must receive a special or interim use permit. The special
use permit requires:
d
Is not located in a bluff impact zone or shore impact
zoneif a freestanding tower
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RECODIFICATION REPORT
Placement of the tower minimizes public river corridor
views
Complies with design standards for public facilities
205.28.07.01205.28.08.B specifies Caps ROS district building height at 35 feet (this is the
that building heightislands, currently zoned P)
would be defined by Caps SR district building height as the underlying
the underlying zoningzoning as long as that is consistent with the mature
tree height (underlyingzoning height ranges up to 65
feet
Caps UM district building height as 65 feet with an
emphasis on tiering away from the riverexcept for with
a Special Use Permit
Specifies conditions for allowing a varianceor special
use forbuilding height
205.28.07.02NoneOutlines criteria on granting variance requests for
building height
Adds potential mitigation measures for height variances.
Measures 3-5 are optional
205.28.07.03205.28.08.C:Prohibits structures and impervious surface in shore
Prohibits structures impact zone (50% of the required structure setback
and uses within 40 from the OHWL) and bluff impact zone (within 20 feet
feet of a bluffline in of bluffline) unless specified for an exemption. While
all areasthe setbacks of 40 feet from the bluffline and 100 feet
Prohibits structures from the OHWL are inclusive of these zones, this
and uses within 100 section has different setback requirements
feel of the OHWLIncreases the structure setback to 200 feet in the ROS
neighborhoods
Increases the setback for structures, impervious
surfaces, and facilities to 200 feet of bluffline in ROS
neighborhood (islands)
Reduces the UM setback to 50 feet
Adds shoreland overlay restriction on impervious
surface coverage
Adds shoreland setbacks for creeks
There is an opportunity to allow for setback averaging
based on adjacent principal structurethat staff is not
recommending to protect the river.
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RECODIFICATION REPORT
205.28.07.5NoneRequires lots in the ROS district to be at least 200
feet
Requires all new lots to have adequate buildable
area to comply with the setback requirements
without a variance
205.28.08Did not Requires that design takes advantage of natural
specifically call vegetation and topography for screening purposes
out design Limits access paths to eight feed wide in the SIZ and
standards for four feet wide in the BIZ
private roads, Adds reference to state statute for private water access
driveways, ramps
parking areas, Limits the width of stairways and lifts on residential lots
access to four feet in width and 32 feet in area
paths/ramps, Prohibits canopies on land-basedstairways, lifts, or
accessory landings
structures Allows onewater-oriented accessory structures near
decks, patios, the water (ex: gazebos) and sets design specifications
signs, and for water oriented accessory structures
lighting Allows decks to encroach into OHWL and bluffline
setback areas provided they meet certain specifications
205.28.08.D
Did not reference off-premise or directional signage;
contained
however signs are regulated under the sign code
preservation of
Requires lighting to be fully shielded and prohibits
line of site for
uplighting inthe shore impact zoneorder to preserve
all properties
dark skies and minimize impacts to wildlife (this is an
optional requirementrecommended by the Audubon
Society)
Limits the line of site requirement to private facilities;
line of site maintenance is optional but included in
previous versions of the code
205.28.09.1Did not provide Requires minimum visibility from the river consistent
specific design with the purpose of the facility
requirements for Requires projects to avoid primary conservation areas
public facilitiesunless no alternatives exist
Requires projects to minimize disturbance of spawning
and nesting times of wildlifewhere feasible when there
is potential for conflict.
205.28.09.2205.28.12 provides Requires vegetationcurrently in a natural state to
requirement for right maintained to the extent feasible
Limits the replacement with native plants to only areas
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RECODIFICATION REPORT
of way maintenancein which native plants have been removed
205.28.09.3Not referenced, but Provides state statute stating that crossing of any land
included in state controlled by the DNR must be approved by DNR
statutecommissioner
205.28.09.4205.28.10.A regulates Adds references to applicable state statute
transmission and
essential services
205-28.09.5205.08.10.B regulates Requires public transportation facilities to meet
transportation structure setbacks unless no alternative exists
facilities
205.28.09.6205.28.08.C.3 Restricts placement of roadways from the BIZ and SIZ
listed public unless no alternative exists
recreational Allows hard surface trails in BIZ and SIZ if following
facilities as exempt best practices
to setbacksRequires trails, paths, and viewing areas to minimize
visibility and disturbance to primary conservation areas
205.28.09.E.3
Allows hard surface trails on slopes between 18-30%.
requires structures,
Allows natural surface trails on slopes with higher
trails, and
grades.
roadways to be
Requires trails and paths to be designed to minimize
sited to minimize
impacts
impacts for soil
References state statue for public water access facilities
compaction and
comply with state
loss of vegetation
Allows public signs and kiosks in the BIZ and SIZ if
cover
proper guidelines are followed
Sets guidelines for public stairways, lifts and landing.
205.28.10205.28.11 provides Eliminates requirement that the public access be
requirements for specifically for pedestrians
public access Expands requirement from providing right-of-way to
providing physical access
plans.
Changes requirements for where access will not be
provided from specific ins
205.28.11205.28.09 provides Requires a permit and an approved restoration plan for
requirements for intensive vegetation plan withinpriority zones
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RECODIFICATION REPORT
vegetative includingshore impact zones, bluff impact zones, areas
managementwithin 50 feet of wetland or drainage route, areas of
including a native plant communities, and significant existing
requirement to vegetative stands
o Exceptions are provided for maintenance of
removed for existing lawns, right of way maintenance,
developmentselective removal of trees provided that the
trees are replaced in conformance with the
tree replacement requirement and the view
from the river remains consistent, due to the
importance of maintaining the viewshed
from the river.
Expands replacement requirement for removal of trees
damaged trees) to all tree removals, not just removals
related to the developmentwithin the priority zone.
Removes the requirement for replacement for trees
removed due to development to trees outside of the
priority zones. Removes the exception for removals of
diseased or damaged trees from the replacement
requirement due to the impact of removing all ash trees
from the MRCCA without replacement.
Requires and provides guidelines for the vegetation
restoration plan
o Requires that vegetation restoration plans
prepared in response to habitat or erosion
control be prepared by a qualified or city-
approved individual
Changes the required restoration amount from density
to quantity for clarity
Adds a date that restoration must be completed by
Establishes a fee-in lieu program where tree replacement
is not feasible.
205.28.12.1.A205.28.08 limits Limits land alteration within the bluff impact zone
development except as allowed by exception
within 40 feet of
the bluff except by
exception
205.28.12.1.B205.28.09.A does not Sets thresholds permits within the water quality impact
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RECODIFICATION REPORT
specify a minimum zoneat a lower amount than the traditional land
threshold of gradingalteration permit
205.28.12.2205.28.09.C Requires the city engineer or designee determines
establishes thresholds there is an erosion control problem prior to permitting
for retaining walls and Reduces the minimum horizontal distance between
erosion control retaining walls to 10 feet
structures Requires all riprap be below the regulatory floodline
Requires that riprap and retaining walls be sized to the
minimum amount necessary
Explicitly allows repair of retaining walls and riprap
provided there is not land alteration
205.28.12.3Does not provide Includes design restrictions on stormwater
restrictions on management facilities within the bluff impact zone
stormwater Requires permit for impervious surface within the
management facilitieswater quality impact zone
Requires that stormwater run off be directed away
from the bluff impact zone or unstable areas
205.28.12.4205.28.08.D provides Allows development on steep slopes if development can
guidelines for occur without increasing erosion
development on steep
slopes
205.28.12.5NoneProvides requirements for land alteration permit
None205.28.08.E specifies This section was removed due to inability to track and
limits to amount of enforce
gross soil loss
205.28.13NoneProvides design standards for subdivisions
Requires conservation of primary conservation based
on district type
Encourages alternative design standards
205.28.14205.28.08.C.3 lists Public safety facilities are considered essential
Exceptions to setback services which are exempt, except from placement
requirements shall inthe BIZ unless no other options are available
include public safety Public roadways are no longer listed as exempt
facilities, public from height requirements
bridges and Some public recreational facilities are not exempt
approaches, public from the BIZ and SIZ setbacks
roadways, public
recreation facilities,
scenic overlooks,
regional and local
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RECODIFICATION REPORT
trails; docks and boat
launching facilities,
approved river
crossings of essential
services and
distribution services
and historical sites
designated by the
National and State
Register of Historic
Places.
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MRCCA Update Example Scenarios
The following are hypothetical examples of how updates to the Mississippi River Corridor
Critical Area code will impact property owners. These examples do not consider existing
regulations from the Shoreland Overlay or Floodplain Overlay that have not been changed.
1) Property A, Hartman Circle Addition and Landscaping Project
The property owner is proposing to build a two story addition on the back of the house.
Additionally, they would like to build a patio and a gazebo with steps down to the river and
remove some trees to open up the viewshed. The property is within the River Neighborhood
District.
Component Old Rules New Rules
Addition Height is governed by the Height is limited to 35 feet or the
underlying zoning (30 underlying zoning;
feet); The addition must be setback 100 feet
The addition must be set from the OHWL and 40 feet from the top
back 100 feet from the of the bluff
OHWL and 40 feet from
the top of the bluff
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Patio and gazebo Setbacks are currently There appears to be a bluff on the
property that will need to be surveyed;
. There is not a The property owner will need to apply
definition provided for for a MRCCA permit;
Either the deck or gazebo (which are
issue permits for patios, so water oriented accessory structures) are
this portion of the project allowed within the setback area, not
would not be regulated. both;
The deck or gazebo must:
o!Not be within the bluff impact zone
o!Not exceed 12 feet in height;
o!Not exceed 120 square feet in area;
and
o!Be placed a minimum of 10 feet from
the ordinary high water level.
If a deck, it must:
o!Not exceed fifteen percent of the
required structure setback
o!The area of the deck or patio that
extends into the required setback
area occupies no more than 25
percent of the total area between the
required setback and the 15 percent
using the formula:
\[Required setback depth (feet) x 0.15
x lot width at setback (feet) x 0.25 =
maximum total area\]
Stairs must be less than four feet wide
and cannot be covered
Vegetation Removal Clear cutting is prohibited; Clear cutting within 50 feet of the river is
not allowed, vegetative cover must
remain consistent;
All trees removed within 50 feet of the
river (shore impact zone) will need to be
replaced;
A vegetative restoration plan will not be
needed for patio work since the patio
will be outside of the priority areas.
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2) Sanitary Sewer Lift Station with freestanding cell tower and free standing sign
A public utility is considering building a sanitary sewer lift station on a riverfront property. They
would also like to lease a portion of the land to host a freestanding cell tower and freestanding,
off premise advertising sign. The property is located within the River Neighborhood district.
Component Old Rules New Rules
Lift Station Essential services are Essential services are exempt
generally considered exempt from setbacks, shore impact
from the rules; however, this zone restrictions, and bluff
is not clear in the current impact zone restrictions
language where feasible;
Avoid primary conservation
areas where feasible;
Limit impacts on public river
corridor views;
Minimize disturbance of
native vegetation;
Replace disturbed native
vegetation with native
vegetation
Cell Tower The project will need to be in The project will need to be in
a location approved under a location approved under
the Telecommunications the Telecommunications
Chapter and meet relevant Chapter and meet relevant
standards; standards;
Setbacks are currently The applicant will need a
special use permit;
The tower cannot be in a
bluff or shore impact zone;
If a cell tower is interpreted The applicant will need to
to be a use, it will need to be demonstrate that functional
40 feet away from the coverage cannot be provided
bluffline or 100 feet away through co-location, at a
from the river; lower height, or at a location
outside the MRCCA;
Placement must minimize
impacts on public river
corridor views;
Avoid primary conservation
areas where feasible;
Free Standing Sign The Chapter does not cover The sign would need to meet
signs. The sign would need to the design guidelines within
the Sign Chapter;
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meet the design guidelines The sign cannot be readily
within the Sign Chapter visible from the river;
The sign will be limited based
on the MRCCA District;
The sign cannot be placed in
the shore or bluff impact
zone;
The sign must be setback 40
feet from the bluff and 100
feet from the river
Public Access Public pedestrian access shall
Public river access shall be
be provided to the riverfront
provided to the riverfront of
of developments on publicly
developments on publicly
owned and publicly
owned and publicly controlled
controlled riverfront property.
riverfront property where
Access will not be provided
feasible
where:
1.!Unavoidable hazards
exist to the public.
2.!Public pedestrian
access at a particular
location cannot be
designed or
developed to provide
a pleasant view or
recreational
experience.
3. Multi-family building, Anna Ave
The property owner is proposing to demolish and reconstruct the existing multi-family building.
The property is within the Urban Mixed District
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Component Old Rules New Rules
Building The building will need to be The building will need to be
100 feet back from the OHWL 50 feet back from the OHWL
and 40 feet back from the and 40 feet back from the
bluffline; bluffline;
Height will be determined by Height is limited to 65 feet or
the underlying zoning underlying zoning. If the
underlying zoning is higher
than 65 feet, this may be
allowed with a special use
permit if mitigated for.
Public Access Public pedestrian right-of-
Public river access to and
way including river access
along the river shall be
shall be provided for any new
provided for any new
development that is adjacent
development that is adjacent
to or part of an overall plan
to or part of a city plan.
of the city for pedestrian
movement within the district.
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CITY OF FRIDLEY ZONING CODE
CHAPTER 205.32 O-7. SHORELAND OVERLAY DISTRICT
(Ref 1224)
205.32 O-7 SHORELAND OVERLAY DISTRICT
1. PURPOSE AND INTENT
A. The unregulated use of shorelands in the city affects the public health, safety and general welfare
not only by contributing to pollution of public waters, but also by impairing the local tax base.
Therefore, it is in the best interests of the public health, safety and welfare to provide for the wise
use and development of shorelands of public waters.
B. Statutory authorization. These shoreland regulations are adopted pursuant to the authorization and
policies contained in Minn. Stat. Ch. 103F, Minnesota Regulations, Parts 6120.2500 through
6120.3900, and the planning and zoning enabling legislation in Minn. Stat. Ch. 462.
C. Jurisdiction. The provisions of this Code shall apply to shorelands of the public water bodies as
classified in Section 205.32.4.B of this Code except for those properties that are also under the
jurisdiction of the Critical Area Chapter for which only the Critical Area Chapter will apply. A
body of water created by a private user where there was no previous shoreland may, at the
discretion of the governing body, be exempt from this Code.
D. Compliance. The use of any shoreland of public waters; the size and shape of lots; the use, size,
type and location of structures on lots; the grading and filling of any shoreland area; and the
cutting of shoreland vegetation shall be in full compliance with the terms of this Code and other
applicable regulations.
E. District application. The shoreland overlay district shall be superimposed (overlaid) upon all the
zoning districts as identified in Chapter 205 of this Code as existing or amended by the text and
map of this Code. The regulations and requirements imposed by the shoreland overlay district
shall be in addition to those established by the base zoning district which jointly apply. Under
joint application of the districts, the more restrictive requirements shall apply.
F. Exemption. A structure or use which was lawful before adoption of this Chapter, but which is not
in conformity with the provisions of the shoreland overlay district, may be continued subject to
Section 205.04.3 of this Code.
2. DISTRICT BOUNDARIES
A.!The boundaries of the shoreland permit overlay district within the city consists of the first tier of
riparian lots abutting a protected lake or tributary identified in Section 205.32.4.B of this Code.
The specific boundaries of the shoreland permit overlay district are shown on the official Fridley
Shoreland Overlay District Map in the Fridley Zoning Code.
A.B.!For those properties that are also within the jurisdiction of the Critical Area Chapter, only
the provisions of the Critical Area Chapter shall apply.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205.32.3.I
3. DEFINITIONS
For the purpose of this Chapter certain terms and words are hereby defined: Words used in the present
tense shall include the future; words in the singular include the plural, and the plural the singular; the
word
For the purpose of this district the following definitions shall apply:
A. Accessory Building.
A subordinate building or use which is located on the same lot as the principal building or use and
is necessary or incidental to the conduct of the principal building or use.
B. Bluff.
Those steep slopes lying between the ordinary high water mark and the River Corridor boundary
having an angle of ascent from the river of more than twelve percent (12%) from the horizontal.
C. Bluffline.
A line delineating the top of the bluff connecting the points at which the angle of ascent becomes
less than twelve percent (12%). More than one (1) bluffline may be encountered.
D. Bluff Impact Zone
The area between the Bluffline and forty (40) feet inland from the bluff.
E. Commission.
The City of Fridley Planning Commission.
F. Commissioner.
The Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Minnesota.
G. Council.
The Fridley City Council.
H. Critical Area.
The area known as the Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area designated by the Governor in the
Executive Order No. 130.
I. Development.
The making of any material change in the use or appearance of any structure or land including
reconstruction; alteration of the size of any structure; alteration of the land; alteration of a shore or
bank of a river, stream, lake or pond; a commencement of drilling (except to obtain soil samples);
mining or excavation; demolition of a structure; clearing of land as an adjunct to construction;
deposit of refuse, solid or liquid waste, or fill on a parcel of land; the dividing of land into two (2)
or more parcels.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205.32.4.A.
J. Impervious Surface.
A constructed hard surface that either prevents or retards the entry of water into the soil, and
causes water to run off the surface in greater quantities and at an increased rate of flow than
existed prior to development. Examples include rooftops, sidewalks, patios, driveways, parking
lots, storage areas, and concrete, asphalt, or gravel roads.
K. Lot Coverage.
The amount of impervious surface on a lot.
L. Ordinary High Water Level.
Minnesota State Statute 103G.005, subdivision 14 defines ordinary high water level as the
boundary of waterbasins, watercourses, public waters, and public waters wetlands, and:
(1) the ordinary high water level is an elevation delineating the highest water level that has been
maintained for a sufficient period of time to leave evidence upon the landscape, commonly the
point where the natural vegetation changes from predominantly aquatic to predominantly
terrestrial;
(2) for watercourses, the ordinary high water level is the elevation of the top of the bank of the
channel; and
(3) for reservoirs and flowages, the ordinary high water level is the operating elevation of the
normal summer pool.
M. Shoreland
Shoreland means land located within the following distances from the ordinary high water
elevation of public waters:
(1) land within 1,000 feet from the normal high watermark
of a lake, pond, or flowage; and
(2) land within 300 feet of a river or stream or the
landward side of a floodplain delineated by ordinance on the
river or stream, whichever is greater.
N. Shore Impact Zone
The area between the ordinary high water mark and fifty (50) feet inland from the ordinary high
water mark.
O. Structure.
Anything constructed or erected which requires location on or underground or attachment to
something having location on or underground. This includes an edifice or building of any kind, or
any piece of work artificially built up or composed of parts joined together in some definite
manner, whether of a temporary or permanent character.
4. SHORELAND CLASSIFICATION SYSTEM
A. Public waters. The public waters of Fridley have been classified below consistent with the criteria
found in Minnesota Regulations, Part 6120.3300, and the DNR Protected Waters Inventory Map
for Anoka County, Minnesota.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205.32.5.B.
B. Official map. The shoreland permit district for the waterbodies listed below shall be shown on the
Fridley Zoning Map.
(1) Lakes
Recreational Development Lakes Protected Waters Inventory I.D. #
Moore Lake 2-75P
Spring Lake 2-71P
General Development Lakes Protected Waters Inventory I.D. #
Locke Lake 2 - 77P
Harris Pond 2-684W
Farr Lake 2-78P
Natural Environment Lakes Protected Waters Inventory I.D. #
Public Water in Springbrook Park 2-688P
(2) Rivers and streams
Rivers From To
Mississippi River Sec 3, T30N, R24W Sec 34, T30N, R24W
Tributary Streams
Norton Creek
Oak Glen Creek
Rice Creek
Springbrook Creek
Stoneybrook Creek
5. ADMINISTRATION
A. Building permit required. A permit is required for the construction of buildings or building
additions (and including such related activities as construction of decks and signs), and those
grading and filling activities not exempted by this Code that occur within the shoreland district.
Application for a building permit shall be filed with the zoning administrator or any staff persons
designated by the city manager on an official application form of the city, accompanied by a fee
as set forth in Chapter 11 of this Code. Where required by law, the building permit application
shall be forwarded to the applicable watershed district for review and comment. The application
shall include the necessary information so that the zoning administrator can determine the site's
suitability for the intended use.
B. Variance. Variances may only be granted in accordance with Section 205.05.6 of this Code. A
variance may not circumvent the general purposes and intent of this Code. No variance may be
granted that would allow any use that is prohibited in the underlying zoning district in which the
subject property is located.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205.32.8.A.(3)
C. Notifications to the Department of Natural Resources.
(1) Public hearings. Copies of all notices of any public hearings to consider variances,
amendments, or special uses under local shoreland management controls must be sent to the
commissioner or the commissioner's designated representative and postmarked at least ten
days before the hearings. Notices of hearings to consider proposed subdivisions/plats must
include copies of the subdivision/plat.
(2) Approval. A copy of approved amendments and subdivisions/plats, and final decisions
granting variances or special uses under local shoreland management controls must be sent by
the City to the commissioner or the commissioner's designated representative and postmarked
within ten days of final action.
6. LAND USE DISTRICT DESCRIPTIONS
Allowed land uses within the shoreland district shall be determined by the underlying zoning district,
as listed within Chapter 205 of City Code.
7. LOT AREA AND WIDTH STANDARDS
Lot area and width standards for residential development shall be regulated per the underlying zoning
district in Chapter 205 of City Code.
8. PLACEMENT, DESIGN, AND HEIGHT OF STRUCTURES
A. Placement of structures on lots. When more than one setback applies to a site, structures and
facilities must be located to meet all setbacks. Where structures exist on the adjoining lots on both
sides of a proposed building site, structure setbacks may be altered without a variance to conform
to the adjoining setbacks from the ordinary high water level, provided the proposed building site
is not located in a shore impact zone or in a bluff impact zone. Structures shall be located as
follows:
(1) Required setbacks. All required rear yard, side yard and front yard setbacks shall be met per
the underlying zoning district.
(2) Ordinary high water level setback. Structure setbacks (in feet) from the ordinary high water
level.
Classes of Public Waters Structure Setbacks
General Development Lake 50 feet
Natural Environment Lake 150 feet
Recreational Development Lake 75 feet
River 100 feet
Tributary Stream 50 feet
(3) Required bluff setback. The following setback shall be applied, regardless of the classification
of the water body:
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205.32.8.B.(3)b.
Classes of Land Structure Setback
Top of Bluff 40 feet
(4) Bluff impact zones. Structures and accessory facilities, except stairways and landings, must
not be placed within bluff impact zones.
(5) Height of structures. Maximum allowable height for all structures shall be regulated per
underlying zoning district in Chapter 205 of City Code.
B. Shoreland alterations. Alterations of vegetation and topography will be regulated to prevent
erosion into public waters, fix nutrients, preserve shoreland aesthetics, preserve historic values,
prevent bank slumping, and protect fish and wildlife habitat.
(1) Vegetation alteration. Removal or alteration of vegetation is allowed subject to the following
standards:
a. Intensive vegetation clearing within the shore and bluff impact zones and on steep slopes
is not allowed.
b. In shore and bluff impact zones and on steep slopes, limited clearing of trees and shrubs
and cutting, pruning, and trimming of trees is allowed to provide a view to the water from
the principal dwelling site and to accommodate the placement of stairways and landings,
picnic areas, access paths, beach and watercraft access areas, and permitted water-
oriented accessory structures or facilities provided that:
((i)). The screening of structures, vehicles, or other facilities as viewed from the water,
assuming summer, leaf-on conditions, is not substantially reduced.
((ii)). Along rivers, existing shading of water surfaces is preserved.
((iii)). The above provisions are not applicable to the removal of trees, limbs, or branches
that are dead, diseased, or pose safety hazards and the removal of plants deemed
noxious under the Minnesota Noxious Weed Law.
(2) Building permit. Grading and filling and excavations necessary for the construction of
structures and driveways under validly issued building permits for these facilities do not
require the issuance of a separate shoreland grading and filling permit.
(3) Land alteration permit. Notwithstanding (2) above, a land alteration permit will be required
for:
a. The movement of more than ten cubic yards of material on steep slopes or within shore or
bluff impact zones.
b. The movement of more than 50 cubic yards of material outside of steep slopes and shore
and bluff impact zones.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205.32.8.B.(4)j.
(4) Conditions. The following considerations and conditions must be adhered to during the
issuance of building permits, land alteration permits, special use permits, variances and
subdivision approvals:
a. Grading or filling in any type 2-8 wetland must be evaluated to determine how
extensively the proposed activity would affect the following functional qualities of the
wetland (This evaluation shall also include a determination of whether the wetland
alteration being proposed requires permits, reviews, or approvals by other local, state, or
federal agencies such as a watershed district, the Minnesota Department of Natural
Resources, or the United States Army Corps of Engineers):
((i)) Sediment and pollutant trapping and retention.
((ii)) Storage of surface runoff to prevent or reduce flood damage.
((iii)) Fish and wildlife habitat.
((iv)) Recreational use.
((v)) Shoreline or bank stabilization.
((vi)) Noteworthiness, including special qualities such as historic significance, critical
habitat for endangered plants and animals, or others.
b. Alterations must be designed and conducted in a manner that ensures only the smallest
amount of bare ground is exposed for the shortest time possible.
c. Mulches or similar materials must be used, where necessary, for temporary bare soil
coverage, and a permanent vegetation cover must be established as soon as possible.
d. Methods to minimize soil erosion and to trap sediments before they reach any surface
water feature must be used.
e. Altered areas must be stabilized to acceptable erosion control standards consistent with
the field office technical guides of the local soil and water conservation districts and the
United States Soil Conservation Service.
f. Fill or excavated material must not be placed in a manner that creates an unstable slope.
g. Plans to place fill or excavated material on steep slopes must be reviewed by qualified
professionals for continued slope stability and must create finished slopes of less than 3:1
slope.
h. Fill or excavated material must not be placed in bluff impact zones.
i. Any alterations below the ordinary high water level of public waters must first be
authorized by the commissioner under Minn. Stat. § 103G.245.
j. Alterations of topography must only be allowed if they are accessory to permitted or
special uses and do not adversely affect adjacent or nearby properties.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205.32.8.C.(2)a.((iv))
k. Placement of natural rock rip rap, including associated grading of the shoreline and
placement of a filter blanket, is permitted if the finished slope does not exceed three feet
horizontal to one foot vertical, the landward extent of the rip rap is within ten feet of the
ordinary high water level, and the height of the rip rap above the ordinary high water
level does not exceed three feet. Must be done in accordance with other State and
Federal regulations. Permit from DNR is required.
(5) Connections to public waters. Excavations where the intended purpose is connection to a
public water, such as boat slips, canals, lagoons, and harbors, must be controlled by local
shoreland controls. Permission for excavations may be given only after written authorization
has been obtained from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources approving the
proposed connection to public waters.
C. Stormwater management. The following general and specific standards shall apply:
(1) General standards.
a. When possible, existing natural drainage-ways, wetlands, and vegetated soil surfaces
must be used to convey, store, filter, and retain stormwater runoff before discharge to
public waters.
b. Development must be planned and conducted in a manner that will minimize the extent
of disturbed areas, runoff velocities, erosion potential, and reduce and delay runoff
velocities, erosion potential, and reduce and delay runoff volumes. Disturbed areas must
be stabilized and protected as soon as possible and facilities or methods used to retain
sediment on the site.
c. When development density, topographic features, and soil and vegetation conditions are
not sufficient to adequately handle stormwater runoff using natural features and
vegetation, various types of constructed facilities such as diversions, settling basins,
skimming devices, dikes, waterways, and ponds may be used. Preference must be given
to designs using surface drainage, vegetation, and infiltration rather than buried pipes and
manmade materials and facilities.
(2) Specific standards.
a. Impervious surface lot coverage shall not exceed 35 percent of the lot area, except as a
variance, which shall comply with the following standards:
((i)) All structures, additions or expansions shall meet setback and other requirements
of this Code.
((ii)) The lot shall be served with municipal sewer and water.
((iii)) The lot shall provide for the collection and treatment of stormwater in compliance
with Chapter 208 of City Code if determined that the site improvements will result
in increased runoff directly entering a public water. All development plans shall
require review and approval by the city engineer and the underlying watershed
district.
((iv)) Measures to be taken from the treatment of stormwater runoff and/or prevention of
stormwater from directly entering a public water. The measures may include, but
not be limited to the following:
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205.32.9.C.
(A) Appurtenances as sedimentation basins debris basins, desilting basins, or silt
traps.
(B) Installation of debris guards and microsilt basins on storm sewer inlets.
(C) Use where practical, oil skimming devices or sump catch basins.
(D) Direct drainage away from the lake and into pervious, grassed, yards through
site grading, use of gutters and down spouts.
(E) Construction sidewalks of partially pervious raised materials such as decking
which has natural earth or other pervious material beneath or between the
planking.
(F) Use grading and construction techniques which encourage rapid infiltration,
e.g., sand and gravel under impervious materials with adjacent infiltration
swales graded to lead into them.
(G) Install berms, water bars, or terraces which temporarily detain water before
dispersing it into pervious area.
b. When constructed facilities are used for stormwater management, documentation must be
provided by a qualified individual that they are designed and installed consistent with the
field office technical guide of the local soil and water conservation districts.
c. New constructed stormwater outfall to public waters must provide for filtering or settling
of suspended solids and skimming or surface debris before discharge.
(3) Nonconformities. All legally established nonconformities as of the date of this section may
continue, but they will be managed according to section 205.32.5.B of this Code with the
following exceptions:
a. Decks are allowed as a conforming use provided all of the following criteria and standards
are met:
((i)). The principle structure existed on the date the structure setbacks were established.
((ii)). No other reasonable location for a deck exists.
((iii)). The deck encroachment toward the ordinary high water level maintains a
minimum setback in accordance with applicable code sections and a maximum
encroachment of 10 feet into the Bluff Impact Zone or Shore Impact Zone.
((iv)). The deck is framed construction, and is not roofed or screened.
9. PUBLIC NUISANCE: PENALTY
A. Any person who violates any provisions of this district or fails to comply with any of its terms or
requirements shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than $500 or
imprisoned for not more than ninety (90) days, or both, and in addition shall pay all costs of
prosecution and expenses involved in the case. Each day such violation continues shall be
considered a separate offense.
B. Every obstruction or use placed or maintained in the Preservation District in violation of this
Chapter is hereby declared to be a public nuisance and creation thereof may be enjoined and the
maintenance thereof abated by appropriate judicial action.
C. Nothing herein contained shall prevent the City from taking such other lawful action as is
necessary to prevent, remedy or remove any violation.
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FRIDLEY CITY CODE
SECTION 205.30. O-5 TELECOMMUNICATIONS TOWERS
AND FACILITIES DISTRICT
(Ref Ords 1112, 1114, 1117, 1136, 1302, 1340, 1347, 1350)
205.30.1. PURPOSE AND INTENT
The general purpose of this Section is to create an overlay zone to regulate the placement,
construction, and modification of towers and wireless telecommunications facilities as well as
regulate placement, construction and operation of distributed antenna systems in the public right-
of-way in order to protect the health, safety, and welfare of the public, while at the same time not
unreasonably interfering with the development of the competitive wireless telecommunications
marketplace in the City.
Specifically, the purposes of this Section are:
A. To protect residential areas and land uses from potential adverse impact of towers and
wireless telecommunications facilities;
B. To minimize adverse visual impact of towers and wireless telecommunications facilities
through careful design, siting, landscaping, and innovative camouflaging techniques;
C. To promote and encourage shared use/collection of towers and existing antenna support
structures as a primary option rather than construction of additional single-use Towers in
order to minimize the adverse visual impact of towers and wireless telecommunications
Facilities;
D. To avoid potential damage to property caused by towers and wireless telecommunications
facilities by ensuring that such structures are soundly and carefully designed, constructed,
modified, maintained, located, and removed when no longer used or determined to be
structurally unsound;
E. To ensure that towers and wireless telecommunications facilities are compatible with
surrounding land uses;
F. To facilitate the provision of wireless telecommunications services to the residents and
businesses of the City in a streamlined, orderly, and efficient fashion;
G. To encourage the location of towers in industrial and business districts, rather than residential
areas;
H. To enhance the ability of providers of telecommunication services to provide such services to
the community quickly, effectively, and efficiently;
I.!To identify specific sites within the City where wireless telecommunications facilities may be
located.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205 (Zoning) Section 205.30.2
J. To serve the growing demand for telecommunications services through placement of
distributed antenna systems (DAS) in the public right-of-way.
205.30.2. DEFINITIONS
The following words, terms, and phrases, when used in this section, shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in this Section, except where the context clearly indicates a different meaning;
means any building or other structure other than a tower which can
be used for location of wireless telecommunications facilities.
means any Person that applies for a permit for wireless telecommunication facilities
or towers, automatic meter reading devices or small wireless facilities. (Ref Ord 1350)
means the process by which a person submits a request to develop, construct,
build, modify, or erect wireless telecommunication facilities or a tower upon land within the
City, develop, construct, build, modify, or erect an automatic meter reading system within the
City; or develop, construct, build, modify, or erect small wireless facilities within the public
right-of-way. Application includes all written documentation, verbal statements and
representations, in whatever form or forum, made by an applicant to the City concerning such a
request. (Ord 1350)
means a site which has been approved by the City Council as an eligible
location for placement of wireless communication facilities.
means a device which is designed for collecting, storing,
processing, filtering and forwarding utility meter data within the public safety and utility
bandwidth licensed by Federal Communications commission, including any antenna attached to
such device and excluding devices reading and transmitting data from a single utility meter.
means a series f devices which is designed for collecting,
storing, processing, filtering and forwarding utility meter data within the public safety and utility
bandwidth licensed by Federal Communications Commission, including any antenna attached to
such device.
means the City of Fridley, Minnesota.
means to install, mount, maintain, modify, operate, or replace a
small wireless facility on, under, within or adjacent to an existing wireless support structure that
is owned privately or by a local government.
means an electrical engineer licensed by the State of Minnesota.
means a tower or antenna support structure installed or erected prior to
December 18, 1997, and which is not located on an approved site.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205 (Zoning) Section 205.30.2
means a small wireless facility that is no larger than twenty-four (24)
inches long, fifteen (15) inches wide, and twelve (12) inches high, and whose exterior antenna, if
any, is no longer than eleven (11) inches.
means a county, home rule charter or statutory city, town, or the
Metropolitan Council.
the area within the River Corridor Boundary
and under the jurisdiction of the Critical Area Chapter.
means any Person with fee simple title to any approved site, existing site, site
approved by special use permit, or wireless telecommunications facility.
means a devise which is designed for collecting, storing, processing,
filtering and forwarding utility meter data within the public safety and utility bandwidth licensed
by Federal Communications Commission, including any antenna attached to such device like the
automatic meter reading device, but, which is installed on its own pedestal and not on an existing
public utility structure.
is any natural person, firm, partnership, association, corporation, company, or other
legal entity, private or public, whether for profit or not for profit.
is all equipment necessary for processing of traffic received
from terrestrial distributions prior to transmission via satellite and of traffic received from the
satellite prior to transfer of channels of communication to terrestrial distribution systems.
means (1) a wireless facility that meets both of the following
qualifications: (i)each antenna is located inside an enclosure of no more than six (6) cubic feet in
volume or, in the case of an antenna that has exposed elements, the antenna and all its exposed
elements could fit within an enclosure of no more than six (6) cubic feet; and (ii) all other
wireless equipment associated with the small wireless facility, excluding electric meters,
concealment elements, telecommunications demarcation boxes, batter backup power systems,
grounding equipment, power transfer switches, cutoff switches, cable, conduit, vertical cable
runs for the connection of power and other services, and any equipment concealed from public
view within or behind an existing structure or concealment, is in aggregate no more than twenty-
eight (28) cubic feet in volume; or (2) a micro wireless facility.
means the State of Minnesota.
means a structural engineer licensed by the State of Minnesota.
-of- means a person owning or controlling a facility in the
public right-of-way, or seeking to own or control a facility in the public right-of-way that is used
or is intended to be used for providing wireless service, or transporting telecommunication or
other voice or data information. A cable communication system defined and regulated under
Minn. Stat. Chapter 238, and telecommunications activities related to providing natural gas or
electric energy services whether provided by a public utility as defined in Minn. Stat. §216B.02,
a municipality, a municipal gas or power agency organized under Minn. Stat. Chapters 453 or
453A, or a cooperative electric association organized under Minn. Stat. Chapter 308A, are not
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telecommunications right-of-way users for the purposes of this Chapter and Minn. Stat.
§237.163, except to the extent these entities are offering wireless services.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205 (Zoning) Section 205.30.2
means to stop the running of a relevant time period, such as a review period.
Means a self-supporting monopole structure constructed from grade which supports
wireless telecommunications
Lattice or guyed structures are prohibited.
means a pole that is used in whole or in part to facilitate telecommunications or
electric service.
means a facility used to transport communications data by wire
from a wireless facility to a communications network.
means equipment at a fixed location that enables the provision of wireless
services between user equipment and a wireless service network, including: (1) equipment
associated with wireless service; (2) a radio transceiver, antenna, coaxial or fiber-optic cable,
regular and backup power supplies, and comparable equipment, regardless of technological
following: wireless support structures, wireless backhaul facilities; or coaxial or fiber-optic
cables between utility poles or wireless support structures or that are not otherwise immediately
adjacent to or directly associated with a specific antenna.
means any service using licensed or unlicensed wireless spectrum, including
the use of Wi-Fi, whether at a fixed location or by means of a mobile device, that is provided
using wireless facilities. Wireless service does not include services regulated under Title VI of
the Communications Act of 1934, as amended, including a cable service under United States
Code, title 47, section 522, clause (6).
means a new or existing structure in a public right-of-way
designed to support or capable of supporting small wireless facilities, as reasonably determined
by a local government unit.
means any cables, wires, lines, wave guides,
antennas, and any other equipment or facilities associated with the transmission or reception of
communications (other than radio or television broadcast communications) which a person seeks
to locate or have installed upon or near a tower or an antenna support structure. However, the
term wireless telecommunications facilities shall not include:
A. Any satellite earth station antenna two meters in diameter or less which is located in an
area zoned industrial or commercial;
B. Any satellite earth station reception antenna one meter or less in diameter, regardless of
zoning category;
C. Automatic meter reading systems; and
D. Small wireless facilities.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205 (Zoning) Section 205.30.5.D.
205.30.3. NON-CONFORMING USES
A. Existing sites shall be considered a legal non-confirming use, unless otherwise provided for
in this Chapter.
B. Installation of additional wireless telecommunications facilities beyond those in existence on
December 18, 1997, on existing sites is prohibited. Failure to comply with this provision will
be considered a violation of this Chapter and subject to the penalties described herein.
Routine maintenance of wireless telecommunications facilities on Existing Sites is permitted,
except that existing sites and any wireless telecommunications facilities installed on existing
sites may not increase in size, height, weight, or otherwise result in an increase in the
intensity of the non-conforming use.
C. If any wireless telecommunications facilities in an existing site are abandoned for a period of
one year, such existing site shall lose is legal conforming status and shall be considered an
illegal nonconforming use. The abandoned wireless telecommunications facilities shall not
be re-established on the site, and must be removed within twelve (12) months of the cessation
of operations. If not removed, the city may remove the facility and assess the costs of
removal against the Owner(s), according to the procedures established in Chapter 128 of the
City Code.
205.30.4. DISTRICT BOUNDARIES FOR OVERLAY ZONE
A Telecommunications Towers and Facilities District, 0-5, is created and shall apply to all land
within the City subject to the provisions and use requirements contained in this Section.
205.30.5. USES PERMITTED
A. The construction of towers and the installation, operation and maintenance of wireless
telecommunications facilities shall be permitted use in the approved sites identified on
Appendix A to this Ordinance, subject to the provisions of this Chapter. Additional approved
sites may be approved by the City Council, subject to the amendment procedures set forth in
Section 205.05.04 of the City code, and the requirements of this section.
B. All principal, special use, and accessory uses allowed in each underlying primary zoning
district are permitted in the telecommunications towers and facilities district, except that no
towers shall be constructed, and no wireless telecommunications facilities shall be placed on
towers or antenna support structures, except as provided for in this Chapter.
C. Special Uses.
(1). The construction of towers and the installation, operation, and maintenance of wireless
telecommunications facilities shall be a special use in Zoning districts M-1, M-2, M-3,
and M-4, and any abutting railroad rights-of-way.
(2) The construction of towers and the installation, operation, and maintenance of wireless
telecommunications facilities shall be an interim use in the Critical Area Overlay
District and subject to jurisdiction of the Critical Area Chapter.
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D. Automatic Meter Reading System Performance Standards. All automatic meter reading
systems must meet the following performance standards:
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205 (Zoning) Section 205.30.5.E(6)
(1) All automatic meter reading devices located in the public right-of-way, must obtain an
automatic meter reading device permit and pay the appropriate permit fee, as provided for
in Chapter 407 and Chapter 11 of the City Code. This permit requirement does not apply
to individual meters or mobile automatic reading devices.
(2) Mapping information for the site(s) must be provided with the automatic meter reading
d
Geographic Information System (GIS).
(3) All automatic meter reading device(s) must be located no higher than the top of a public
utility structure and no closer to grade than fifteen (15) feet.
(4) Automatic meter reading devices not installed on a public utility structure will be
considered as pad mount design. Its location shall be subject to review and approval of
the City prior to automatic meter reading device permit application.
(5) All automatic meter reading devices must be the same color as the public utility structure
on which they are located or as approved by City Staff.
E. Small Wireless Facilities in the Public Right of Way Performance Standards in Underlying
Non-Residential Districts. All small wireless facility operators and small wireless facilities
are permitted uses in all non-residential underlying zoning districts within the public right-of-
way and shall meet the following criteria and performance standards:
(1)!The small wireless facility shall only be located on a utility pole or wireless support
structure, excluding stop lights.
a.!The utility pole or wireless support structure accommodating the small wireless
facility shall not exceed fifty (50) feet in height.
(2)!The City may prohibit small wireless facility attachment to decorative public utility
structures.
(3)!There shall be no interference with public safety communication or with the original use
of the utility pole.
(4)!The small wireless facility shall not block light emanating from the utility pole.
(5)!If the small wireless facility is to be attached to a City-owned utility pole or wireless
support structure, the applicant shall pay a rental fee to the City
standard Collocation Agreement.
(6)!The small wireless facility shall, to the greatest extent possible match the utility pole or
wireless support structure in color, material and design and the small wireless facility
design shall, to the greatest extent possible minimize exposed cables, wires and other
attachment hardware.
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(7)!The small wireless facility shall not extend above the top of the existing utility pole by
more than ten (10) feet and the maximum height of the existing utility pole or wireless
support structure shall be fifty (50) feet.
(8)!The small wireless facility shall be no larger than six (6) cubic feet.
(9)!The small wireless facility shall not extend outward from the utility structure by more
than three (3) feet.
(10)!Unless otherwise agreed in a franchise or other agreement between the right-of-way user
and the city, small wireless facilities in the right-of-way must be located or relocated and
maintained underground in accordance and compliance with any requirements set forth in
the right-of-way permit and City Code Chapter 407, Rights of Way Management.
(11)!The small wireless facility applicant shall provide evidence that the utility pole or
wireless support structure has adequate structural capacity to carry the additional
equipment proposed.
(12)!The small wireless facility applicant must agree that the small wireless facility or any
component of the small wireless facility equipment shall be removed and relocated in
compliance with any requirements set forth in the right-of-way permit and City Code
Chapter 407, Rights of Way Management, if the City or road authority for the public
right-of-way in which it is located requires removal or and relocation of the utility pole
for a public project.
(13)!The small wireless facility applicant shall submit in writing to the City, written approval
from the utility pole or wireless support structure owner, if not the City, for which the
small wireless facility will be attached to.
(14)!The small wireless facility applicant shall obtain any and all permits and approvals from
road authority for the public right-of-way in which its small wireless facility is located.
(15)!The small wireless facility applicant must be a telecommunications right-of-way user as
defined in Minn. Stat. § 237.162, Subd. 4.
(16)!The small wireless facility applicant shall obtain a right-of-way permit from the
engineering department and comply with any requirements set forth in the right-of-way
permit and City Code Chapter 407, Rights of Way Management.
(17)!A small wireless structure shall be at least nine hundred (900) feet in distance from any
other small wireless structure.
(18)!All small wireless structures and small wireless facilities shall be installed two (2) feet
from the edge of any trail, sidewalk, or pedestrian way so as not to obstruct or impede the
trail, sidewalk or pedestrian way.
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(19)!The small wireless facility shall be at least twelve (12) feet above the ground.
(20)!The small wireless facility applicant shall comply with all applicable local, state, and
federal ordinances, statutes and regulations.
F. Small Wireless Facility Performance Standards in the Public Right of Way in Underlying
Residential Districts. All small wireless facility operators and small wireless facilities are
special uses in all underlying residential districts within the public right-of-way and shall
meet the following criteria and performance standards:
(1) The small wireless facility shall only be located on a utility pole or wireless support
structure, excluding stop lights.
a.!The utility pole or wireless support structure accommodating the small wireless
facility shall not exceed fifty (50) feet in height.
(2) The City may prohibit small wireless facility attachment to decorative public utility
structures.
(3) There shall be no interference with public safety communication or with the original use
of the utility pole.
(4) The small wireless facility shall not block light emanating from the utility pole.
(5) If the small wireless facility is to be attached to a City-owned utility pole or wireless
support structure, the ap
standard Collocation Agreement.
(6) The small wireless facility shall, to the greatest extent possible match the utility pole or
wireless support structure in color, material and design and the small wireless facility
design shall, to the greatest extent possible minimize exposed cables, wires and other
attachment hardware.
(7) The small wireless facility shall not extend above the top of the existing utility pole by
more than ten (10) feet and the maximum height of the utility pole or wireless support
structure shall be fifty (50) feet.
(8) The small wireless facility shall be no larger than six (6) cubic feet.
(9) The small wireless facility shall not extend outward from the utility structure by more
than three (3) feet.
(10) Unless otherwise agreed in a franchise or other agreement between the right-of-way user
and the city, small wireless facilities in the right-of-way must be located or relocated and
maintained underground in accordance and compliance with any requirements set forth in
the right-of-way permit and City Code Chapter 407, Rights of Way Management.
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(11) The small wireless facility applicant shall provide evidence that the utility pole or
wireless support structure has adequate structural capacity to carry the additional
equipment proposed.
(12) The small wireless facility applicant must agree that the small wireless facility or any
component of the small wireless facility equipment shall be removed and relocated in
compliance with any requirements set forth in the right-of-way permit and City Code
Chapter 407, Rights of Way Management, if the City or road authority for the public
right-of-way in which it is located requires removal or and relocation of the utility pole
for a public project.
(13) The small wireless facility applicant shall submit in writing to the City, written approval
from the utility pole or wireless support structure owner, if not the City, for which the
small wireless facility will be attached to.
(14) The small wireless facility applicant shall obtain any and all permits and approvals from
road authority for the public right-of-way in which its small wireless facility is located.
(15) The small wireless facility applicant must be a telecommunications right-of-way user as
defined in Minn. Stat. § 237.162, Subd. 4.
(16) The small wireless facility applicant shall obtain a right-of-
engineering department and comply with any requirements set forth in the right-of-way
permit and City Code Chapter 407, Rights of Way Management.
(17) A small wireless structure shall be at least nine hundred (900) feet in distance from any
other small wireless structure.
(18) All small wireless structures and small wireless facilities shall be installed two (2) feet
from the edge of any trail, sidewalk, or pedestrian way so as not to obstruct or impede the
trail, sidewalk or pedestrian way.
(19) The small wireless facility shall be at least twelve (12) feet above the ground.
way.
(21) The small wireless facility applicant shall comply with all applicable local, state, and
federal ordinances, statutes and regulations.
205.30.6. CRITERIA FOR ADDING APPROVED SITES TO APPENDIX A
Additional approved sites, other than those provided in Appendix A to this Ordinance, shall be
approved by the City Council according to the amendment procedures of Section 205.05.04 of
the City code. The criteria used to determine whether a site shall be designated as an approved
site shall include, but not be limited to, the following requirements:
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A. Whether the proposed new site is capable of being developed to support more than two
operating wireless telecommunications facilities comparable to the others in weight, size, and
surface area.
B. Whether the proposed new site poses a risk of explosion, fire, or other danger due to its
proximity to volatile, flammable, explosive, or hazardous materials such as LP gas, propane,
gasoline, natural gas, or corrosive or other dangerous chemicals; and
C. Whether the proposed new site is necessary and that useable approved sites are not located
within a one-half (1/2) mile radius of the proposed new site; and
D. Whether all foreseeable telecommunications uses of the proposed site could comply with any
separation and buffer requirements of the underlying zoning district;
E. Whether all foreseeable telecommunications uses of the proposed new site could comply
with the setback requirements of the underlying zoning district; and
F. Whether the proposed site is accessible for service vehicles;
G. If applicable, whether the proposed site has been designed and certified by a structural
engineer to be structurally sound and, at minimum, in conformance with the Building and
Electric Codes adopted by the City, the National Electric Safety Code, and any other
standards and requirements outlined in this Section.
H. If applicable, whether the approved site complies with all applicable Federal Aviation
Administration lighting and painting regulations.
I. towers, antenna support
structures, and wireless telecommunications facilities be designed to blend into the
surrounding environment.
J. Whether the proposed site has adequate open space to allow wireless telecommunications
facilities to be installed without detrimentally impacting landscape, displacing parking, or
impeding sight lines of a current or future principal use.
K. W
meet the needs of the wireless telecommunications industry.
L. Whether the proposed site has amenities such as trees that will allow screening and sight line
relief. If no, whether the combination of site size and other site features help to provide sight
line relief.
M. Whether there are other structures near the proposed site that can serve as visual distractions
such as high power transmission structures, highway shoring, billboards.
N. Whether there are existing buildings or natural topographic features that meet the height
requirements of wireless telecommunications facilities without a tower structure, or which
allow for a lower overall height of any necessary Tower.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205 (Zoning) Section 205.30.7.A(8)
O. Whether there is adequate space on the proposed site so that the base of any necessary Tower
can accommodate essential equipment.
P. Whether the proposed site is outside of any underlying residential zoning districts.
Q. Whether housed equipment can be placed on top or on the side of a structure that currently
exists in the proposed site.
R. If within the Mississippi Corridor Critical Area, whether the site can comply with the Critical
Area Chapter.
205.30.7. APPLICATION FOR PLACEMENT OF TOWERS OR WIRELESS
TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITIES ON APPROVED SITES IN THE CITY.
A. All persons seeking to install, operate and maintain towers wireless telecommunications
facilities in approved sites in the city must file a telecommunication site permit application
with the City which shall include:
(1) The names, address, and telephone number of the Applicant; and
(2) Written, technical evidence from a qualified and licensed structural engineer that the
proposed tower or antenna support structure is capable of supporting the equipment
necessary to install, operate, and maintain the proposed antenna. The engineer shall also
certify the capability of the tower to provide adequate structural support considering
existing or other proposed antenna installations. The engineer shall also assess and state
the design safety margin of the entire antenna support system. The engineer shall state
that within the limits of engineering certainty, if the structure would fall or collapse for
any reason or due to any event, the structure will be completely contained within the area
identified; and
(3) If proposed on a City-owned site, a completed application form for lease approval as
provided by the City; and
(4) A report from a qualified and licensed professional engineer which described the height
and design of the proposed wireless telecommunications facility including a cross-section
and elevation; and
(5) A scalable site plan drawn at an engineering scale showing the location of the wireless
telecommunications facility in relation to surrounding structures; and
(6) If located on a water tower, a written report addressing the requirements contained herein
for water towers; and
(7) Foundation, cross-section, and building plans for installation of the wireless
telecommunications facility; and
(8) An application fee as required by Chapter 11; and
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205 (Zoning) Section 205.30.8.D
(9) The application shall also contain an affirmative statement indicating that the applicant
agrees to comply with the provisions in Section 205.30.25. regarding abandonment; and
(10) No new or existing wireless telecommunications service will interfere with public safety
telecommunications. Before the introduction of new service or before implementing any
change in existing service, all wireless telecommunications service providers shall notify
the City at least ten (10) calendar days in advance of such changes and allow the City to
monitor interference levels during the testing process; and
(11) Application for a building permit from the City pursuant to Chapter 206 of the code; and
(12) A statement as to whether the proposed development of an approved Site is capable of
being developed to support more than two (2) operating wireless telecommunications
facilities comparable to the others in weight, size, and surface area; and
(13) Written, technical evidence from an independent consulting engineer licensed to
practice geological engineering in the State of Minnesota confirming that the soil at the
location of the tower or wireless telecommunication facility is capable of supporting the
proposed antenna arrays, equipment, and personnel performing typical work functions;
and
(14) A landscaping plan showing location of materials, height at planting, types of materials,
and installation practices.
B. All persons seeking to install, operate, and maintain towers or wireless telecommunications
facilities in M-1, M-2, M-3, or M-4 Zoning Districts as a special use permit shall submit the
information required in 205.30.07.A, except items (3) and (11).
205.30.8. APPLICATION FOR AN AUTOMATIC METER READING DEVICE IN THE
CITY
All persons seeking to install, operate and maintain automatic meter reading systems in the City
must file an application with the City, which shall include:
A.!The name, address and telephone number of the applicant and property owner; and
B.!Written, technical evidence from a qualified Structural Engineer that the integrity of the
structure on which a proposed automatic reading devise(s) will be attached and the
attachment devise itself will not jeopardize the structural integrity of the public utility
structure; and
C.!A location plan matching the public utility structure identification (address) and the
appropriate automatic meter reading device; and
D.!An individual automatic meter reading device permit fee as required by Chapter 11; and
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205 (Zoning) Section 205.30.9.A(9)
E.!The application shall contain an affirmative statement indicating that the applicant agrees to
comply with the provisions in section 205.30.25. regarding abandonment; and
F.!No automatic meter reading system will interfere with public safety telecommunications.
Before the introduction of new service or before implementing any change in existing
service, all automatic meter reading system operators shall notify the City at least ten (10)
calendar days in advance of such changes and allow the City to monitor interference levels
during the testing process.
205.30.9. APPLICATION FOR PLACEMENT OF SMALL WIRELESS FACILITIES IN
THE RIGHT-OF-WAY
A.!All persons seeking to install, operate and maintain small wireless facilities within the right-
of-way within the City must file a right-of-way permit application with the City that, in
addition to any other requirements set forth in City Code Chapter 407, includes:
(1)!The names, address, and telephone number of the right-of-way permit applicant; and
(2)!Written technical evidence from a qualified and licensed structural engineer that the
proposed small wireless facilities utility pole or wireless support structure is capable of
supporting the equipment necessary to install, operate and maintain the small wireless
facility. The engineer shall also certify the capability of the utility pole or wireless
support structure to provide the adequate support needed considering the existing or other
proposed equipment installations. The engineer shall also assess and state the design
safety margin of the entire utility pole or wireless support structure and small wireless
facility. The engineer shall state that within the limits of engineering certainty, if the
utility pole or wireless support structure would fall or collapse for any reason due to any
event, the utility pole or wireless support structure will be completely contained within
the area identified; and
(3)!A completed right-of-way permit application form as provided by the City; and
(4)!A report from a qualified and licensed professional engineer which described the height
and design of the proposed small cell wireless facility including a cross-section and
elevation; and
(5)!A scalable site plan drawn at an engineering scale showing the location of the small
wireless facility in relation to the surrounding structures; and
(6)!Foundation, cross-section, and building plans for installation of the small wireless
facility; and
(7)!A right-of-way application and fee as required by Chapter 11; and
(8)!A building permit application and fee pursuant to Chapter 206;
(9)!An escrow fee as set forth in Chapter 11 to be held and utilized in the event the small
wireless facility is abandoned without removal by the applicant and
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(10)!The right-of-way application shall contain an affirmative statement indicating that the
applicant agrees to comply with the provisions of 205.30.5.E for small wireless facility
performance standards and 206.30.25 for abandonment.
(11)!Written, technical evidence from an independent consulting engineer licensed to
practice geological engineering in the State of Minnesota confirming that the soil at the
location of the small wireless facility is capable of supporting the utility pole or wireless
support structure to which the small wireless facility will be attached.
(12)!Documentation that the small wireless facility applicant has applied for and obtained
any licenses and approvals that are required by federal and state agencies.
B.!Action on Small Wireless Facility Permit Applications.
(1)!Approval or Denial. The city shall approve or deny a small wireless facility permit
application within ninety (90) days after filing of such application. The small wireless
facility permit, and any associated building permit application, shall be deemed approved
if the city fails to approve or deny the application within the review periods established in
this section.
a. Consolidated Applications. An applicant may file a consolidated small wireless
facility permit application addressing the proposed collocation of up to fifteen (15)
small wireless facilities, or a greater number if agreed to by the city, provided that all
small wireless facilities in the application:
i.!Are located within a two (2) mile radius;
ii.!Consist of substantially similar equipment; and
iii.!Are to be placed on similar types of wireless support structures.
In rendering a decision on a consolidated permit application, the city may approve
some small wireless facilities sites and deny others, but may not use denial of one or
more permits as a basis to deny all small wireless facilities in the application.
b.!Tolling of Deadline. The ninety (90) day deadline for action on a small wireless
facility permit application may be tolled if:
i.!The city receives applications from one or more applicants seeking approval of
permits for more than thirty (30) small wireless facilities within a seven (7) day
period. In such case, the city may extend the deadline for all such applications by
thirty (30) days by informing the affected applicants in writing of such extension.
ii.!The applicant fails to submit all required documents or information and the city
provides written notice of incompleteness to the applicant within thirty (30) days
of receipt of the application. Upon submission of additional documents or
information, the city shall have ten (10) days to notify the applicant in writing of
any missing information.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205 (Zoning) Section 205.30.11
iii.!The city and a small wireless facility applicant agree in writing to toll the review
period.
(2)!Scope of Approval. An approval of a small wireless facility permit under this section
authorizes the installation, placement, maintenance, or operation of a small wireless
facility to provide wireless service and shall not be construed to confer authorization to
(1) provide any service other than a wireless service, or (2) install, place, maintain, or
operate a wireline backhaul facility in the right-of-way.
(3)!Denial. Any denial of a right-of-way or small wireless facility permit must be made in
writing and must document the basis for the denial. The city must notify the applicant in
writing within three (3) business days of the decision to deny the permit. If a permit
application is denied, the applicant may cure the deficiencies identified by the city and
resubmit its application. If applicant user resubmits the application within thirty (30)
days of receiving written notice of the denial, no additional filing or processing fee shall
be imposed. The city must approve or deny the revised application within thirty (30)
days after the revised application is submitted.
205.30.10. APPLICATION PROCESS
A. Upon submission of an application on an approved site, for an antenna meter reading system,
or small wireless facility, the City shall notify the applicant in writing to confirm if the
application is complete addressing all of the requirements as required by this Section. If the
application is incomplete, the letter will specify what information is missing and the
applicant must then submit a new application. If an application is submitted on an approved
site which is owned by the City, a lease agreement must be approved by the City Council.
The City shall comply with the time deadlines for agency action as dictated in Minnesota
State Statutes. Construction or installation on approved sites may begin upon approval of the
lease agreement, if necessary, and issuance of a building permit. Construction or installation
on an automated meter reading system or small wireless facility may begin upon approval of
the application and issuance of any required permits and execution of any required
Collocation Agreement.
B. If a small wireless facility, tower or wireless telecommunications facility is approved by a
special use permit, the applicant must also apply for and receive a building permit.
205.30.11. TOWER HEIGHT
Tower height shall be measured from the average adjoining grade to the highest point of
construction of any tower or wireless telecommunications facilities. Towers are exempt from the
maximum height restrictions of the districts where located. Towers shall be permitted to a height
of one hundred twenty-five (125) feet. An additional twenty-five (25) feet of tower height shall
be permitted for a total height of one hundred fifty (150) feet, if all of the following criteria can
be met:
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205 (Zoning) Section 205.30.15
A. The tower exists within a lineal dimension of two hundred fifty (250) feet of any one of the
following structures that exceed the height of one hundred fifty (150) feet. These structures
include: buildings, power lines, and train/rail yard fixtures such as light fixtures,
B. Tower can meet or exceed any local, state, of federal regulations relative to tower fall
distance.
C. All permits required to replace or expand an existing tower be reviewed and approved by the
City prior to alteration.
205.30.12. STEALTH DESIGN AND EXTERIOR FINISHES
All approved sites, towers, and wireless telecommunications, and small wireless facilities shall
be designed to blend into the surrounding environment. Monopoles with antenna arrays shall be
finished so as to be compatible with other buildings or structures in the area, and shall be
finished with a non-corrosive material. Wireless telecommunications facilities placed on water
towers shall be finished with a non-corrosive material to match the color of the water tower.
205.30.13. ILLUMINATION
Towers shall not be artificially illuminated except as required by the Federal Aviation
Adm
205.30.14. LANDSCAPING AND SCREENING
All sites shall include appropriate landscaping as required herein and shall comply with all
landscaping requirements of the underlying zoning district. Accessory above-ground equipment
must utilize existing buildings or structures, if possible. If no existing structures are available,
the owner of the wireless telecommunications facilities may construct such a structure. At
minimum, all ground equipment shall be fully screened from public rights-of-way or residential
property by existing structures, a brick decorative wall, or a solid one hundred percent (100%)
opaque vegetative enclosure, six feet in height at planting.
205.30.15. SECURITY
All towers must be reasonably posted and secured to protect against trespass. Chain link fences
may be used to protect towers and wireless telecommunications facilities. Barbed or razor wire
is prohibited. All facilities shall be designed to discourage unauthorized climbing on the
structure.
All small wireless structures shall be designed in a manner so that the structure from ground
level to twelve (12) feet prevents unauthorized climbing on the structure.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205 (Zoning) Section 205.30.19
205.30.16. INSTALLATION REQUIREMENTS ON WATER TOWERS AND IN CITY
Installation of wireless telecommunication facilities on water towers will be permitted when the
city is fully satisfied that the following requirements are met:
A. The wireless telecommunications facility will not increase the risks of contamination to the
B. There is sufficient room on the structure and/or in the grounds to accommodate the wireless
telecommunication facility.
C. The presence of the wireless telecommunication facility will not increase the water tower or
reservoir maintenance costs to the City.
D. The presence of the wireless communication facility will not be harmful to the health of
workers maintaining the water tower or reservoir.
E. All state and federal regulations pertaining to non-ionizing radiation and other health hazards
has been satisfied.
205.30.17. BUILDING PERMIT REQUIRED
A building permit is required for installation of any tower, wireless telecommunications facility,
or small wireless structure. The completed installation, including all associated buildings, shall
comply with all applicable building codes including but not limited to the most currently adopted
version of the N.F.P.A. 70 National Electrical Code, TIA/EIA 222 Structural Standards for steel
antenna towers, and others as may be determined by the Building Official.
205.30.18. SETBACKS
The tower or wireless communications facility shall be located in rear or side yard areas and
shall be set back at least ten (10) feet from side or rear lot lines.
205.30.19. SIGNS
Signs no larger than four (4) square feet in size and attached to a structure are the only permitted
signage associated with the tower or wireless telecommunications facility.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205 (Zoning) Section 205.30.21.D
205.30.20. CERTIFICATIONS AND INSPECTIONS
A. All towers and wireless telecommunications facilities shall be periodically reviewed by the
City to be structurally sound and in conformance with the requirements of the City Code, this
Chapter, any conditions of approval placed on a special use permit and all other construction
standards set forth sites may
be inspected for compliance with this Section at any time if the City believes there are
questions regarding compliance with the City Code, this Section, any conditions of approval
and all other federal, state and local laws.
B. The City and its agents shall have authority to enter onto any approved site, existing site, or
site approved by special use permit between the inspections and certifications required
above, to inspect the site for the purpose of determining whether the sites comply with the
State Building and Electrical Codes, the National Electric Safety Code and all other
constru
C. The City reserves the right to conduct such inspections at any time, upon reasonable notice to
the owner(s). All expenses related to such inspections by the City shall be borne by the site
owner(s).
205.30.21. MAINTENANCE
A. Ordinary and reasonable care of towers, wireless telecommunications facilities, automatic
meter reading systems/devices, and small wireless facilities shall be employed at all times.
All towers, wireless telecommunications facilities, automatic meter reading systems, and
small wireless facilities shall at all times be kept and maintained in good condition, order and
repair so that the same shall not menace or endanger the life or property of any person.
B. Owners shall install and maintain towers, wireless telecommunications facilities, automatic
meter reading systems/devices, and small wireless facilities in compliance with the
requirements of the National Electric Safety Code and all FCC, State and local regulations,
and in such manner that will not interfere with the use of other property.
C. All maintenance or construction on towers, wireless telecommunications facilities, automatic
meter reading systems/devices, or small wireless facilities shall be performed by qualified
maintenance and construction personnel.
D. All owners of wireless telecommunications facilities, automatic meter reading
systems/devices, and small wireless facilities shall maintain compliance with current radio
frequency emission standards of the FCC. In order to provide information to its citizens,
copies of all FCC information concerning wireless telecommunications facilities, automatic
meter reading systems/devices, and small wireless facilities shall be made available to the
City and updated annually.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205 (Zoning) Section 205.30.24
E. In the event the use of a tower, a public utility structure, a wireless telecommunications
facility, an automatic meter reading system/device, or small wireless facilities is discontinued
by the owner of the wireless telecommunications facility, automatic meter reading system, or
small wireless facilities, or in the event an owner files notice to the FCC of its interest to
cease operating the owner shall provide written notice to the City of its intent to discontinue
use and the date when the use shall be discontinued.
205.30.22. PRIORITY FOR USE
Priority for use of the installation, maintenance and operation of towers and wireless
telecommunications facilities will be given to the following entitles in descending order:
A. City of Fridley.
B. Public safety agencies, including law enforcement, fire, and ambulance services, which are
not part of the City of Fridley and private entities with a public safety agreement with the
City of Fridley.
C. Other governmental agencies, for uses which are not related to public safety.
D. Entities providing licensed commercial wireless telecommunication services including
cellular, public and personal communication services (PCS), and similar services that are
marketed to the general public.
205.30.23. CO-LOCATION
Towers shall be designed to support more than two (2) wireless telecommunications facilities.
Wireless support structures shall be designated to support more than one (1) small wireless
facility.
205.30.24. FEES
The applicant shall pay the fees listed in Chapter 11 for processing a request to install, operate,
and maintain a tower, public utility structure, pad mount device, a wireless telecommunications
facility, an automatic meter reading system and/or devices, or small wireless facility in the City.
If deemed as necessary due to the nature of the application, the applicant shall also be required to
reimburse the City for its cost to retain a consultant to review the requested application.
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Fridley City Code Chapter 205 (Zoning) Section 205.30.29
205.30.25. ABANDONMENT
If any site for which approval to install, maintain, and operate a tower, or a public utility
structure, or wireless telecommunications facilities, automatic meter reading systems or small
wireless facilities has been granted by the City shall cease to be used for a period of three
hundred sixty-five (365) consecutive days, the City shall notify the wireless telecommunications
facility operator, automatic meter reading device operator, the small wireless facility operator
and the owner of the property, that said site or system has been deemed abandoned. Upon a
finding of abandonment by the City, the tower, public utility structure, wireless
telecommunications facilities, automatic meter reading system, or small wireless facilities must
be removed or an annual user fee shall be paid to the City. If it is determined that the abandoned
tower, public utility structure, wireless telecommunications facility, automatic meter reading
system or small wireless facilities cannot be removed in a reasonable time period by the owner or
operator, the City shall assess all costs related to the removal to the owner(s) or operator(s),
according to the procedures established in Chapter 128 of the City Code.
205.30.26. NO RECOURSE
No Recourse against the City. Every permit issued to an applicant for construction, installation,
maintenance, or operation of a wireless telecommunications facility, automated meter reading
system/device or small wireless facilities shall provide that, without limiting such immunities as
the City of other persons may have under applicable law, an applicant/permit holder shall have
no monetary recourse whatsoever against the City of its elected officials, boards, commissions,
agents, employees or volunteers for any loss, costs, expense or damage arising out of any
provision or requirements of this Ordinance or because of the enforcement or lack of
permit, a lease, or other applicable law, unless the same shall be caused by criminal acts or by
willful gross negligence. Nothing herein shall be construed as a waiver of sovereign immunity.
205.30.27. DATA PRACTICES
All documentation submitted pursuant to this Chapter by an applicant shall be subject to and
governed by the Minnesota Government Data Practices Act.
205.30.28. SEVERABILITY
If any clause, section, or other part of this Section shall be held invalid or unconstitutional by any
court of competent jurisdiction, the remainder of this Section shall not be affected thereby, but
shall remain in full force and effect.
205.30.29. VIOLATION
Any person who shall violate any of the provisions of this Section shall be guilty of a
misdemeanor and subject to the provisions of Chapter 901 of the Fridley City Code.
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AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date:May 9, 2023 Meeting Type:Environmental Quality and Energy Commission
Submitted By:Rachel Workin, Environmental Planner
Title
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73Avenue Corridor Input
Background
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The City is collecting feedback on 73Avenue prior to reconstruction planned for 2026. This work is
funded in part with a MPCA Resiliency Planning Grant.
Recommendation
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Provide EQEC feedback regarding 73Avenue.
Attachments and Other Resources
None
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
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AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date:May 9, 2023 Meeting Type:Environmental Quality and Energy Commission
Submitted By:Rachel Workin, Environmental Planner
Title
Deconstruction webinar and research
Background
There is a growing movement to consider opportunities to reuse and recycle deconstruction waste.
This item is intended to gauge commissioner interest in spending additional time to consider
opportunities around deconstruction in the City.
Recommendation
For informational purposes only
Attachments and Other Resources
None
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
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AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date:May 9, 2023 Meeting Type:Environmental Quality and Energy Commission
Submitted By:Rachel Workin, Environmental Planner
Title
Energy Action Plan Updates
Background
At the November 9, 2021 meeting, the EQEC recommended adoption of Phase 2 of the Energy Action
Plan. The following activities were completed this past month:
HES Tabling at Environmental Fun Fair (7 Sign Ups)
Finish WindUp Challenge (7 sign ups as of 4/22)
Continue loaning Energy Efficiency Kits
May solar article
The following activities are projected in the next month:
Plan for electrification article
Continue loaning Energy Efficiency Kits
Recommendation
None
Attachments and Other Resources
None
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
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AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date:May 9, 2023 Meeting Type:Environmental Quality and Energy Commission
Submitted By:Rachel Workin, Environmental Planner
Title
Outreach and Events Updates
Background
Outreach at community events is an important strategy to build environmental awareness and increase
engagement. Events that have been completed since the last meeting as well as upcoming outreach
events are listed below.
Completed events (4/11-5/9)
None
Environmental Fun Fair (4/22)-Seven Home Energy Squad sign ups
Confirmed events and topics
Rice Creek TH Pick Up Event (5/25)
Tree and Native Plant Sale (9/16Pick Up)
Mississippi River Concert 8/8
Potential Upcoming Events
Kids Book Swap
Pollinator Planting at Commons Park
Pollinator Planting at Moore Lake
5 year Anniversary Celebration for Civic Campus
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7Avenue trail ribbon cutting
Moore Lake Park ribbon cutting
Recommendation
None
Attachments and Other Resources
None
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
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AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date:May 9,2023 Meeting Type:Environmental Quality and Energy Commission
Submitted By:Rachel Workin, Environmental Planner
Title
Grant Updates
Background
The purpose of this item is to provide Commissioners updates on sustainability grants held by the City.
Grants in the Pre-Application Stage
Anoka County grant to include organics recycling at Moore Lake Park building
CERTS Seed Grants
Grants Under Review
MPCA Level 2 Charging Grant
Active Grants
Recycling grant (ongoing)
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Met Council Regional Solicitation Grant for 44Avenue Bridge w/ Anoka County
BWSR/RCWD grant for Moore Lake IESF project
RCWD grant for road diet on University Ave Service Rd
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LRIP grant for 53Avenue Trail Project
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RS grant for 7St Trail Project (missing section in front of Community Center, will resume
following school release)
University Avenue Lighting Project
rd
Met Council Climate Mitigation grant for feasibility study of73Ave
BWSR HELP grant for native plant restoration on Commons Park hillside
Met Council Water Efficiency Grant pt 3
MDH Well Sealing Grant pt 3
DNR grant for mitigating impacts of EAB
MnDOT Active Transportation Pilot Grant
RCWD grant for sumps in FarrLake neighborhood
MnDOT Active Transportation Infrastructure Grant for University Avenue
CCWD Water Quality Grant for Sweepings Screener
CCWD Water Quality Grant for Apex Pond
DNR Preparing for Emerald Ash Borer Grant Pt. 3
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
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Grants Closed (1/1/2021+)
!SHIP grant for wayfinding kiosk
!MDH Well Sealing Grant pt 2
!SHIP grant for bike fleet (SNC/Recreation)
!CCWD grant for Craig Park improvements
!Lawns to Legumes grant for Craig Park Bee Lawn
!RCWD grant for 6 raingardens in Rice Creek Terrace neighborhood
!Lawns to Legumes Demonstration Neighborhood Grant (ACD grant in partnership with Coon
Rapids, and Lino Lakes)
!SHIP grant for Civic Campus orchard
!CCWD grant for hydrodynamic separator in 2022 Street Project Area
!Met Council Water Efficiency Grant pt 2
Recommendation
!None
Attachments and Other Resources
!None
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
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AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date:May 9, 2023 Meeting Type:Environmental Quality and Energy Commission
Submitted By:Rachel Workin, Environmental Planner
Title
Digital Collaboration Brainstorming
Background
This item is intended as a brainstorming space to discuss opportunities for digital collaboration and
community engagement
Recommendation
For information purposes only
Attachments and Other Resources
None
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
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AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date:May 9, 2023 Meeting Type:Environmental Quality and Energy Commission
Submitted By:Rachel Workin, Environmental Planner
Title
Informal Status Reports
Background
Staff and Commissioners will share informal status reports on programs happening in the City.
Recommendation
None
Attachments and Other Resources
None
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
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