pca 4-16-25
Planning Commission
April 16, 2025
7:00 PM
7071 University Avenue NE
Agenda
Call to Order
Roll Call
Approval of Meeting Minutes
1.Approval of the December 18, 2024, Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
Public Hearing
2.Public Hearing to Consider Ordinance No. 432 amending the Zoning Code, by repealing the
entiretyof Chapter 205 Zoning and Chapter 211 Subdivision and adopting a new Title 6 Zoning
and Subdivision
Other Business
3.Review Commission Onboarding Manual
4.Commission Appreciation Dinner
Adjournment
Accessibility Notice:
If you need free interpretation or translation assistance, please contact City staff.
Si necesita ayuda de interpretación o traducción gratis, comuníquese con el personal de laciudad.
Yog tias koj xav tau kev pab txhais lus los sis txhais ntaub ntawv dawb, ces thov tiv tauj rau Lub Nroog cov
neeg ua hauj lwm.
Haddii aad u baahan tahay tarjumaad bilaash ah ama kaalmo tarjumaad, fadlan la xiriir shaqaalaha
Magaalada.
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 CityClerk@FridleyMN.govor (763) 572-3450.
1
Jufn!2/
AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date:April 16, 2025 Meeting Type:Planning Commission
Submitted By:Julianne Beberg, Office Coordinator
Title
Approval of the December 18, 2024,Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
Background
Attached are the December 18, 2024,
Financial Impact
None
Recommendation
Staff recommend the approval of theDecember 18, 2024,Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
Attachments and Other Resources
December 18,2024, Planning Commission Meeting Minutes
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
2
Jufn!2/
Planning Commission
December 18,2024
7:00 PM
Fridley City Hall, 7071 University Avenue NE
Minutes
Call to Order
Chair Hansencalled the Planning Commission Meeting to order at 7:00 p.m.
Present
Pete Borman
Mark Hansen
Mike Heuchert
Ross Meisner
Paul Nealy
Absent
Aaron Brom
Aaron Klemz
Others Present
Stacy Stromberg, Planning Manager
Bill Davis, representing Maria Herrera, 5216 Pierce Street
Craig Kayser, 5210 Pierce Street
Dave Ostwald
Patrick Vescio
Approval of Meeting Minutes
1.Approve October 16,2024, Planning Commission Minutes
Motionby Commissioner Bormanto approve the minutes. Seconded by Commissioner Meisner.
Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Chair Hansen declared the motion carried unanimously.
Public Hearing
2.Public Hearing to Consider a Lot Split, LS #24-02 to Allow a Property Line Adjustment of Six Feet
from 5210 Pierce Street to 5216 Pierce Street N.E.
Motionby Commissioner Meisnerto open the public hearing. Seconded by Commissioner Heuchert.
3
Jufn!2/
Planning Commission Minutes Page 2
12/18/2024
Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Chair Hansen declared the motion carried unanimously and the public
hearing was opened at 7:03 p.m.
Stacy Stromberg, Planning Manager, presented a request for a lot split requested by the owner of 5216
Pierce Street. She explained that the request would adjust the lot line by six feet and had been approved
by the property owner of 5210 Pierce Street. She stated that three neighboring property owners reached
out to request additional information noting that one resident expressed concern with potential lost views
from their property while the others supported the request. Staff recommends approval of the request
with the noted stipulations.
Commissioner Borman noticed a five-foot offset from the garage to the living space and confirmed that
accounts for the required setbacks for a garage and living space. Ms. Stromberg confirmed that was
correct.
Commissioner Meisner asked if there is a sale involved in this transfer of property. Ms. Stromberg
confirmed that there is a negotiated price involved.
Chair Hansen asked if there would be tree removal required on the lot line. Ms. Stromberg did not believe
so but noted the applicant could provide additional details.
Bill Davis, brother of the applicant, spoke in representation of the application as she is recovering from a
motor vehicle accident. He stated that they are not planning to remove trees but would not fully know
until they begin the foundation work. He stated that their architect drew the plans too close to the
property line, but they believe this looks the best for this property and the neighborhood and therefore
are moving forward as presented.
Craig Kayser, 5210 Pierce Street, stated that he does not utilize this strip of property, and they would only
be building to where the fence already exists. He stated that his only concern was with drainage but was
confident that would be handled through the review by the City. He commented that he does believe
that this will improve the value of the applicant’s property.
Motion by Commissioner Meisner to close the public hearing. Seconded by Commissioner Heuchert.
Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Chair Hansen declared the motion carried unanimously and the public
hearing was closed at 7:14 p.m.
Commissioner Borman commented that this seems straightforward and both neighbors are in agreement.
Commissioner Nealy agreed noting that this would be an improvement to the property.
4
Jufn!2/
Planning Commission Minutes Page 3
12/18/2024
Motionby Commissioner Heuchertto recommend approval of the lot split with the stipulations.Seconded
by Commissioner Neely.
Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Chair Hansen declared the motion carried unanimously.
Other Business
Ms. Stromberg provided a presentation on what the Commission accomplished during 2024.
Adjournment
Motion by Commissioner Meisner to adjourn the meeting. Seconded by Commissioner Borman.
Upon a voice vote, all voting aye, Chair Hansen declared the motion carried unanimously and the meeting
adjourned at 7:21 p.m.
Respectfully submitted,
Stacy Stromberg, Staff Liaison
5
Jufn!3/
AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date:April 16, 2025 Meeting Type:Planning Commission
Submitted By:Stacy Stromberg, Planning Manager
Nancy Abts, Associate Planner
Title
Public Hearing to Consider OrdinanceNo. 432amending the Zoning Code, by repealing the entiretyof
Chapter 205 Zoning and Chapter 211 Subdivision and adopting a new Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Background
In 2021, the Council initiated a full recodification effort of the City Code, which is being led by the City
General Provisions, Title 2 Administration, Title 3 Health Safety and Welfare,
Title 4 Public Nuisance, and Title 5 Land and Buildings are complete.
In February of 2024, staff held a kick-off meeting with the Planning Commission and City Council to
work on Title 6, Zoning and Subdivision. The goals identified by staff to complete this task were to
reduce the size of the 400-page document, simplifythe document by making it more user-friendly,
modernize the document through use of illustrationsand tables, and remove redundancies.
To help achieve these goals, staff held workshops with the Planning Commission to review key
sections of zoning code that warranted some changes. Workshops were held:
April 17, 2024 to discuss parking requirements for all zoning districts
June 12, 2024 to discuss landscaping requirements for all zoning districts
September 18, 2024 to discuss accessory structure allowances and fence requirements
Staff invited the Planning Commission and Council back on November 20, 2024, to discuss the
proposed changes to the Zoning and Subdivision Title. In general, the core requirements (lot size,
setbacks, lot coverage, etc.) remain the same for each zoning district. The key changes and new
content are outlined in the attached document created by City staff and HKGi, the consulting planners.
Also attached for your review and approval is the new Title 6, Zoning and Subdivision.
Financial Impact
Absorbed and Planning Budget
Recommendation
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
6
Jufn!3/
Staff recommends the Planning Commission hold a Public Hearing for Ordinance No. 1432 repealing
the entirely of Chapter 205 Zoning and Chapter 211 Subdivision and adopting a new Title 6 Zoning
and Subdivision.
Attachments and Other Resources
Zoning and Subdivision Code Update Overview
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
7
Jufn!3/
PUBLICNOTICE
City of Fridley PlanningCommissionand City Council
Notice of Public Hearing to Consider a Text Amendment bythe City of
Fridley
Notice is hereby giventhat the PlanningCommissionof the City of Fridley willhold a public hearing
on April 16, 2025at 7:00pmat Fridley City Hall, 7071 University Avenue N.E.
Notice is hereby giventhat the City Council of the City of Fridley willhold a public hearing on May
12, 2025at 7:00 pm at Fridley City Hall, 7071 University Avenue N.E.
The public hearing will consideraText Amendment, TA #25-01, foran ordinance amending the
Zoning Code, by repealing the entirety of Chapter 205 Zoning including 205.27 Floodplain
Management, 205.28 Critical Area, 205.32 Shoreland, and Chapter 211 Subdivision and adopting a
new Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision.The purpose of the amendment is to modernize, simplify,
remove redundancies, and create a more user-friendly code.
Any person desiring to be heard shall be given an opportunity at the above stated time and place.
Or, comments may be submitted before the meeting tostacy.stromberg@fridleymn.govor 763
5723595. Publication date(s): April 4, 2025and April 11, 2025.
8
Jufn!3/
9
Jufn!3/
10
Jufn!3/
11
Jufn!3/
12
Jufn!3/
13
Jufn!3/
14
Jufn!3/
15
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 600General Provisions
600.01 AUTHORITY
1. Title
(a) These regulations shall be known and may be cited as the “City of Fridley Zoning and
Subdivision Ordinance” or “Title 6” except as referred to herein, where it shall be
known as “this Title.”
(b) This action is taken pursuant to the authority contained in Minnesota Statutes,
Sections 462.357 and 462.358.
2.Purposeand Intent
(a) This Title is enacted for the purpose of implementing the Comprehensive Plan and to
protect the public health, safety and general welfare of the community and its people
in the City of Fridley through the establishment of minimum regulations governing
land development and use. More specifically, the purpose of these regulations is to:
(1) Establish regulations to protect the use districts that the City has established by
regulating compatibility of different land uses, density of structures, building
setbacks and heights, provision for adequate light, air and convenience of access
to property; and preventing congestion in the public right-of-way;
(2) Avoid or minimize negative impacts from land uses including, but not limited to,
impacts to neighboring properties, public infrastructure and the general public;
(3) Promote orderly development and redevelopment of property upon which to
plan transportation, water supply, sewerage and other public facilities and
utilities;
(4) Provide for administration of and amendments to this Title, and prescribe
penalties for violations of such regulations; and
(5) Define duties of City Staff, the Board of Appeals and Adjustments, the Planning
Commission and the City Council in relation to this Title and relationship to the
Comprehensive Plan. It is the policy of the City that the enactment, amendment
and administration of this Title can be accomplished with due consideration of
the policies and recommendations contained in the Fridley Comprehensive Plan
as amended from time to time by the City Council.
3. Effective Date
(a) The effective date of this Title is _______, 2025. This Title hereby supersedes and
replaces in its entirety, XXXX of the Fridley, Minnesota Code on the effective date
hereof.
(b) The provisions of this Title shall apply to all permits, permit applications and
development plans (general, revised, or final) filed on or after ________, 2025. Plans on
FR520\\21\\1015992.v1
16
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
file before _____________, 2025 shall be reviewed for compliance with the Zoning Title
effective at the time of filing.
4. Authority to Adopt
(a) This Title is enacted pursuant to the authority granted by the Municipal Planning Act,
M.S. §§ 462.351 through 462.365. Whenever other applicable city, state, or federal
laws or rules referenced in this Title have been amended or superseded, this Title
shall also be considered amended accordingly.
600.02 APPLICABILITY
1.The provisions, interpretation and application of this Title, shall be held to be the
minimum requirements for the promotion of the public health, safety, convenience and
general welfare of the residents of the City.
2. No structure shall be erected, converted, enlarged, reconstructed or altered, and no
structure or land shall be used for any purpose or in any manner which is not in
conformity with the provisions of this Title.
3. All subdivisions planned within the City shall comply fully with the provisions of this Title.
600.03 ADMINISTRATION
1. This Title shall be administered and enforced by the Community Development Director
as designated by the City Manager.
2. The Community Development Director shall administer, interpret and enforce the
provisions of this Title and shall provide for:
(a) The maintaining of permanent and current records of this Title including all
applicable property records, map amendments, conditional uses, interim uses,
variances, appeals and applications hereto.
(b) The receiving, filing and forwarding of all applications for amendments, variances,
conditional uses, interim uses, appeals, or other matters to the appropriate
Commissions and City Council.
(c) The issuance of all permits and certificates required by this Title.
(d) The inspection and examination of all buildings and land, and the issuance of written
orders required in remedying any conditions which are found to be in violation of
this Title.
(e) Being the City staff liaison to the Planning Commission and the enforcement of the
decisions of the City Council pertaining to this Title.
3. The Community Development Director may delegate specific responsibility to any
individual city employee, but shall remain responsible for all decisions made by those
employees.
600.04 INTERPRETATION
1. Relationship to Comprehensive Plan
General Provisions 2 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015992.v1
17
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
(a) It is the policy of the City that the enforcement, amendment and administration of
this Title be accomplished with due consideration of the recommendations contained
in the Comprehensive Plan as developed and amended from time-to-time by the
City. The City Council recognizes the Comprehensive Plan as the policy guide
responsible for regulation of land use and development in accordance with the
policies and purpose herein set forth.
2. Use of Graphics, Illustrations, Figures, Photos and Cross-References
(a) Graphics, illustrations, figures and photos are provided for illustrative purposes only
and shall not be construed as regulations. Where a conflict may occur between the
text and any graphic, illustration, figure or photo, the text shall control.
(b) In some instances, cross-references between chapters, sections and subsections are
provided that include the chapter, section, or subsection number along with the
name of the reference. Where a conflict may occur between the given cross-
reference number and name, the name shall control.
3. Conflicting Regulations or Provisions
(a) Where the provisions of this Title are inconsistent with state or federal law or any
other city ordinance, code provision, or regulation, the more restrictive provision
governs unless otherwise expressly stated.
4. Abrogation and Greater Restrictions
(a) This Title is not intended to repeal, abrogate, annul, impair or interfere with any
existing easement, covenant or any other private agreement. However, provided that
where the regulations of this Title are more restrictive or impose higher standards or
requirements on such easements, covenants or other private agreements, the
requirements of this Title shall govern.
5. Severability
(a) It is hereby declared to be the intention of the City that the provisions of this Title are
severable in accordance with the following:
(1) If any court of competent jurisdiction shall adjudge any provision of this Title to
be invalid, such judgment shall not affect any other provisions of this Title not
specifically included in said judgment.
(2) If any court of competent jurisdiction shall adjudge invalid the application of any
provision of this Title to a particular property, building or other structure, such
judgment shall not affect the application of said provision to any other property,
building or structure not specifically included in said judgment.
6. Fees. The fees for administrative processes, land and building development, alterations,
improvements and subdivisions are provided for in Chapter 209 of this Code.
General Provisions 3 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015992.v1
18
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 601Definitions
601.01 INTERPRETATION OF DEFINITIONS
1. For the purpose of this Chapter certain terms and words are hereby defined as:
A.Words used in the present tense shall include the future;
B. Words in the singular include the plural, and the plural the singular;
C. The word “lot” shall include the word “plot”; and
D. The word “shall” is mandatory while the word “may” is permissive; and
E. The word “including” shall mean “including, but not limited to.”
2. For the purpose of this chapter, the following definitions shall apply unless the context
clearly indicates or requires a different meaning. All words and phrases not defined shall
have their common meaning or be determined through the interpretation of the
Community Development Director.
601.02 GENERAL DEFINITIONS
Alley. A public right of way which affords secondary access to an abutting property.
Alternate Energy Devices. Non fossil fuel energy devices.
Ambient. Description of measurement of existing conditions with respect to traffic, noise, air
and other environments.
Applicant. Any person, firm, corporation, developer, partnership or association that applies
for a land use, subdivision or permit application.
Articulation. Surface articulation in architecture refers to the design and detailing of a
building's surfaces to enhance visual interest, texture and depth.
Basement. A portion of a building located wholly or partly underground, having more than
50% of its floor to ceiling height below the average grade of the building perimeter. A
basement shall not be considered a story for the purposes of determining building height.
Berm. A constructed mound of earth in excess of 18 inches in height used for decorative,
screening or buffering purposes.
Bicycle Facility. Site furnishings which accommodate bicycling, including bicycle racks,
storage and other facilities designated for bicycle parking.
Block. That property abutting on one side of a street and lying between the two nearest
intersecting or intercepting streets or nearest intersecting or intercepting street and railroad
right of way, waterway or other barrier to or gap in the continuity of development along
such street.
Boulevard. That area between the street surfacing or curb and the public right-of-way line.
Definitions 1 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
19
Jufn!3/
Buildable. Lands within an area suitable for a structure and site design features for
residential, commercial and industrial uses. It includes both vacant land and developed land
utilized for redevelopment.
Building. Any structure having walls and a roof, built for the shelter or enclosure of persons,
animals or property of any kind.
Building Height. The vertical distance measured from the average elevation of a finished
grade at the front of the building to the highest point in the case of a flat roof; to the deck
line of a mansard roof; and to the mean distance between eaves and ridge of a gable, hip or
gambrel roof(See Figure X).
Figure X
Caliper. The ANSI (American National Standards Institute) standard for the measurement of
nursery trees. For trees up to six inches in diameter, caliper is measured at six inches above
the ground level. Trees that are a seven to twelve-inch caliper are measured at twelve inches
abovethe ground. For nursery stock above twelve inches in diameter, a DBH (Diameter at
Breast Height) measurement is used.
Carwash. A structure containing a machine or equipment for the cleaning, washing,
polishing, or waxing ofmotor vehicles.This may be attached to a gas station or free-
standing.
Charging Levels:Standardized indicators of electrical force, or voltage, at which an electric
vehicle’s battery is recharged from Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment. The terms 1, 2, and DC
are the most common charging levels, and include the following specifications:
Definitions2 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
20
Jufn!3/
A. Level 1 is considered slow charging and includes 120v outlets.
B. Level 2 is considered medium charging that includes 208v and 240v outlets, and/or
charging head and cord hard-wired to the circuit.
C. Level 3 or DC is considered fast or rapid charging and includes outlets greater than
240v, charging heads and cord hard-wired to the circuit.
City. The City of Fridley.
Common Open Space. Any land, water or combination which is intended for the use and
enjoyment of residents of a development, but not including individual building lots and land
accepted for public dedication.
Curb Grade. The established elevation of the curb in front of the building measured at the
center of such front. Where no curb grade has been established, the City shall establish such
curb elevation.
District. A section or sections of the incorporated area of the City for which the regulations
and provisions governing the use of building and land are uniform for each class of use
permitted therein.
Driveway. A hard surfaced area, such as concrete, asphalt or similar City accepted impervious
material, that is designed to hold the weight of the vehicle while giving access from a public
way to a building or abutting grounds. A hard surface material does not include gravel.
Dwelling Unit. Any building or portions thereof providing habitable, independent living
facilities for one or more persons in a household, including permanent provisions for living,
sleeping, eating, cooking and sanitation.
Easement. A grant by a property owner to the use of land by the public, an entity or persons
for specific purposes such as the construction of utilities, drainageways and roadways.
Electric Vehicle. A vehicle that operates, either partially or exclusively, on electrical energy
from the electrical grid or an off-grid source that is stored on board for motive purposes.
“Electric vehicle” includes:
A. Battery electric vehicle
B. Plug-in hybrid electric vehicle
Electric Vehicle Charging Station (EVCS). A public or private parking space that is served by
electric vehicle supply equipment.
Electric Vehicle Ready Parking Space. Parking space with sufficient electrical capacity and
conduits to support future EV chargers, but not including an installed charger unit. Adequate
electrical service is required to allow for future simultaneous charging of all future installed
chargers.
Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE). Any equipment or electrical component that has
the primary purpose of charging electric vehicles at a specific location and meets the
specifications of the Charging Levels listed above. EVSE does not include equipment located
on the electric vehicles themselves.
Electrical Capacity shall mean, at minimum:
Definitions 3 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
21
Jufn!3/
A. Panel capacity to accommodate a dedicated branch circuit and service capacity.
B. Conduit from an electric panel to future EVCS location(s).
Expansion. Any modification which increases an intensity of a use, or an existing structure’s
square footage, volume or footprint.
Exterior Materials. The protective material on the exterior of a building that typically features
visually appealing finishes.
Façade. The entire external area of a building facing or side extending from the roof or
parapet to the ground and from one corner of the building to another.
Fence. A structure, partition or wall erected for the purpose of enclosing a piece of land or to
divide a piece of land into distinct portions.
Fence, Barbed Wire Security. A barrier system comprised of twisted strands of wire armed
with barbs or sharp points arranged at intervals along the strands.
Fence, Electric Security. A barrier system comprised of wire and designed to deter
unauthorized entry through the use of non-lethal electrical pulses. It consists of one or more
insulated wires strung along a fence line or other supporting structure and connected to a
commercially-available energizer, installed to manufacturer specifications, which delivers
electrical pulses.
Foot Candle. A measure of illumination on a surface that is everywhere one foot from a
uniform point source of light of one candle and equal to one lumen per square foot.
Grade. The average level of the finished surface of the ground adjacent to the exterior walls
of the building.
Ground Cover. The ground area covered by vegetation.
Impervious Surface. A constructed hard surface that either obstructs the entry of water into
the soil, or 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, roads,
patios, driveways, parking lots, storage areas, concrete, asphalt or other material that does
not absorb stormwater run-off.
Landscaping. The improvement of land by the addition of berms, trees, shrubs, ground
cover, crushed rock, wood chips, retaining walls and other functional, ornamental or
decorative features.
Living Area. The area of a dwelling unit designed to be used for habitation purposes,
including bedrooms, dining room, living room and the like, which are usually and
customarily used for habitation purposes, as distinguished from any garage or other type of
accessory space.
Loading Dock. Any off-street area or raised platform, on the same lot with a building or
contiguous to a group of buildings, for the temporary parking of a commercial vehicle while
loading or unloading merchandise or materials.
Lot. A parcel of land sufficient in size to meet the minimum zoning requirements for use,
coverage and area, and to provide such yards and other open spaces as are required (See
Figure X). A lot shall have frontage on a dedicated or private street and may consist of:
Definitions 4 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
22
Jufn!3/
A.A single lot of record or a portion of a lot of record;
B.A combination of complete lots of record and/or portions of lots of record; or
C.A parcel of land described by metes and bounds, provided that any subdivision of
any residual lot shall meet the requirements of this Chapter.
Figure X
Lot, Corner. A lot situated at the intersection of two or more streets(See Figure X).
Lot, Double Frontage (Through). A lot with opposite lot lines on two non-intersecting streets.
Both street frontages shall be considered as front yard areas(See Figure X).
Lot, Interior. A lot situated such that its lot line abuts anotherlot,open space or yard(See
Figure X)..
Lot, Postage Stamp. A lot arrangement typically within ahomeowner’s association where
individual lots define the area around the perimeter of an individual unit and there is a
common lot for the remainder of the yard area(See Figure X).
Definitions5 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
23
Jufn!3/
Figure X
Lot Area. The area of land on a horizontal plane bounded by the front, side and rear lot lines,
measured within the lot boundaries.
Lot Coverage. That portion of a lot that is covered by buildings or structures,but excluding
paving and otherimpervious surfaces.
Lot Depth. The horizontal distance measured between the front and rear lot lines.
Lot Frontage. The front of a lot shall be that boundary of a lot along a street right of way. If a
lot is a corner lot, the front shall generally be the shorter lot line that abuts the street right of
way. The Community Development Director may designate the front lot line based on the
practical front yard of the property as determined by such factors as the existing or
proposed building configuration and consideration of the characteristics of surrounding
properties.
Lot (Property) Line. A line dividing one lot from another or from a street or any public space
(See Figure X).
Figure X
Definitions6 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
24
Jufn!3/
Lot (Property) Line, Front. The front line of a lot shall be that boundary abutting a public
right-of-way, typicallyhaving the least width(See Figure X).
Lot (Property) Line, Rear. The boundary of a lot that is opposite the front lot line(See Figure
X).
Lot (Property) Line, Side. Any boundary of a lot which is not a front or rear lot line(See
Figure X).
Lot Width. The horizontal distance between the side lot lines measured at right angles to the
lot depth at a point equal to the minimum required front yard setback.
Manufactured (Mobile) Home: A structure transportable in one or more sections, which in the
traveling mode, is eight body feet or more in width or 40 body feet or more in length, or, when
erected on site, is 320 or more square feet and is built on a permanent chassis and designed
to be used as a dwelling with or without a permanent foundation when connected to the
required utilities, includingplumbing, HVAC, and electrical system contained in it. The
structure must comply with the Manufactured Home Building Code as defined by Minnesota
Statutes Section 327.31, subdivision 3, as it may be amended time to time.
Manufactured Home Park: A contiguous parcel or parcels of land which has been developed
for the placement of two or more manufactured homes and is owned by an individual, firm,
trust, partnership, public or private association, company or corporation.
Definitions7 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
25
Jufn!3/
Material Classes. Classification of materials based on their physical properties and structural
integrity.
Motor Vehicle. For the purposes of Chapter 205, a machine propelled by power other than
human power, designed to travel along the ground by use of wheels, treads, runners, or
slides and transports persons or property or pulls equipment and shall include but not be
limited to automobiles, trucks, motor homes, motorcycles, tractors, all terrain vehicles (ATVs),
utility task vehicles (UTVs) and snowmobiles.
Nuisance. Anything, condition or conduct that endangers the public health, safety or welfare,
or unreasonably offends the senses, or obstructs the free use and comfortable enjoyment of
property, or essentially interferes with the comfortable enjoyment of life.
Owner Occupancy. A property owner, as reflected in property records, makes their legal
residence at the site, as evidenced by the property’s residential homestead classification.
Parking Stall. An area for the purpose of parking one automobile, with access to a public
street or alley.
Parking Stall, Accessible. A parking space reserved exclusively for a motor vehicle registered
with the state of Minnesota with accessible license plates or a state-issued temporary
accessible parking pass.
Parking Stall, Angled. Any parking space that is not parallel to the curb or driving aisle.
Public Property. Any property owned by the City of Fridley or any other governmental entity
or agency.
Public Right-of-Way. For purposes of chapter 205, “right-of-way” or “public right of way”
means the area on, below, or above a public roadway, highway, street, alley, bicycle lane, or
public sidewalk in which the City, County or State has an interest, including other dedicated
rights-of-way for travel purposes and utility easements of the City, County or State. A right-
of-way does not include the airwaves above a right-of-way with regard to cellular or other
non-wire telecommunications or broadcast services.
Recreational Vehicle: Any structure or vehicle equipped with wheels designed or used for
habitation or recreational purposes to facilitate movement from place to place. Recreational
vehicles also include automobiles that are used for habitation purposes and include pick-up
coaches (campers), motorized homes, boats, travel trailers and camping trailers not meeting
the definition of a manufactured home or mobile home.
Setback. The minimum horizontal distance between a lot line and a structure located on that
lot (See Figure X).
Figure X
Definitions 8 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
26
Jufn!3/
Site Plan. A map drawn to scale depicting the development of a tract of land, including but
not limited to the location in relationship of structures, streets, driveways, recreation areas,
parking areas, utilities, landscaping and walkways as related to a proposed development.
Shrub. Anyplant material, which at maturity is 15 feet in height or less. Such materials may
be used for the formation of hedges.
Slope. The degree of deviation of a surface from the horizontal, usually expressed in percent
or degrees.
Sod/Sodding. A section of grass-covered surface that can be transplanted for landscaping.
Stormwater Runoff.The direct runoff of water resulting from precipitation in any form.
Story. That part of a building included between the surface of any floor and the surface of
the next floor above it; if there is no floor above it, the space between the floor and the
ceiling above it.
Street. A public or private thoroughfare which provides aprincipal means of access to
abutting property.
Definitions94/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
27
Jufn!3/
Street, Arterial. A street designed primarily to carry traffic between large land use units, as
designated in the transportation section of the current Fridley Comprehensive Plan.
Street, Collector. A street designed primarily to carry traffic from local streets to arterial
streets and highways, as defined in the transportation section of the current Fridley
Comprehensive Plan.
Street, Local. A street of limited continuity designed primarily to carry traffic to the abutting
properties and higher order streets, as defined in the transportation section of the current
Fridley Comprehensive Plan.
Structural Alteration. Any change, addition or modification in construction in the supporting
members of a building, including exterior walls, bearing walls, beams, columns, foundations,
girders, floor joists, rafters or trusses.
Structure. Anything constructed or erected on the ground or attached to the ground or on-
site utilities above ground, such as buildings, sheds, detached garages, manufactured homes
and satellite dishes.
Structure, Accessory. A subordinate structure which is located on the same lot as the
principal structure or use and which is necessary or incidental to the conduct of the principal
structure or use.
Structure, Principal. The main constructed building on a parcel of land that is utilized for the
majority of activities.
Transparency. The quality of allowing light to pass through so that objects behind can be
distinctly seen.
Tree, Coniferous. A woody plant, which at maturity is at least 30 feet or more in height, with
a single trunk fully branched to the ground, having foliage on the outermost portion of the
branches year-round.
Tree, Ornamental. A woody plant, which at maturity is less than 30 feet in height, including
multi-stem or those with a single trunk unbranched for several feet above the ground, often
planted for ornamental characteristics such as flowers or attractive bark.
Tree, Overstory Deciduous. A woody plant, which at maturity is 30 feet or more in height,
with a single trunk unbranched for several feet above the ground, having a defined crown
which loses leaves annually.
Use. The purpose for which land or a structure thereon is designated, arranged or intended
or for which it is occupied, utilized or maintained.
Use, Accessory. A subordinate use which is located on the same lot as the principal structure
or use and is necessary or incidental to the conduct of the principal building or use.
Use, Conditional. A specific type of land use that may be allowed, but only after an in-depth
review procedure and with appropriate conditions or restrictions as provided in Code.
Use, Interim. A temporary use of property until a particular date, until the occurrence of a
particular event or until zoning regulations no longer permit it.
Use, Nonconforming. Any building, structure or land lawfully occupied by a use or lawfully
existing at the time of the passage of this Chapter or amendments thereto, which does not
Definitions 10 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
28
Jufn!3/
conform with the regulations of this Chapter or future amendments for the district in which
it is situated.
Use, Permitted. A land use which is specifically allowed in a zoning district.
Use, Permitted with Standards. A land use which may be lawfully established in a particular
district or districts, provided certain standards are met.
Use, Principal. The main use of land or buildings as distinguished from subordinate or
accessory uses.
Use, Proposed. In reference to this Chapter’s provisions regarding mandatory distances
between uses, the “proposed use” shall be a regulated use which may not be located within
a specified distance from a protected use. Proposed uses include but are not limited to
automotive repair and cannabis cultivation.
Use, Protected. In reference to this Chapter’s provisions regarding mandatory distances
between uses, the “protected use” shall be a use which may be adversely affected by a
proposed use. Protected uses include but are not limited to residential uses and schools.
Variance. A modification or variation from the literal requirements of this development
chapter as applied to a specific piece of property.
Vehicle. Any device in, upon or by which any person or property is or may be transported or
drawn upon a highway, excepting devices used exclusively upon stationary rails or tracks.
Vision Safety Zone. A triangular area of unobstructed vision that is located at the intersection
of two streets; a street and an alley; or a street and a driveway. The area is measured by
placing two points of the triangle 40 feet from a street corner, 20 feet from the alley
intersection and 10 feet from the driveway intersection. The third side of the triangle is a
straight line between the two aforementioned points (see Figure X).
Figure X
Definitions 11 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
29
Jufn!3/
Walkway or Sidewalk.A surface designated for pedestrian use.
Waterway. Any body of water that receives storm water runoff, including but not limited to
wetlands, lakes, ponds, streams, rivers, and reservoirs. Shall not include water flowing on
streets, or pooling for less than 24 hours on private property after a rain event.
Yard. The horizontal distance between the principal structure and a lot line, as measured
perpendicular to the lot line. Eaves are not to be considered part of the principal structure
for the purpose of determining the location or extent of a yard(See Figure X).
Figure X
Definitions124/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
30
Jufn!3/
Yard, Corner Side. A yard which abuts a street, extending between the closest point of the
principal building to the corner side property line, where the yard meets the front line to the
rear line.
Yard, Front. A yard extending across the full width of the lot and lying between the front line
of the lot and the nearest line of the principal building(See Figure X).
A yard extending across the full width of the lot and lying between the rear line of
Yard, Rear.
the lot and the nearest line of the principal building(See Figure X).
Yard, Side. A yard extending across the full length of a lot and the main building extending
from the front yard to the rear yard and having a width equal to the shortest distance
between the side line and the principal building(See Figure X).
Zero Lot Line. The location of a building on a lot in such a manner that one or more of the
building’s exterior edges rest directly on a side lot line, and complies with all fire code
requirements for construction on a lot line.
Definitions134/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
31
Jufn!3/
601.03 USE DEFINITIONS
Accessory Dwelling Unit, Attached. A subordinate habitable permanent dwelling complying
with the Minnesota State Building Code which is located within a principal one-unit
detached dwelling.
Accessory Dwelling Unit, Detached. A subordinate habitable permanent dwelling complying
with the Minnesota State Building Code which is located on the same lot as a principal one-
unit detached dwelling. The detached accessory dwelling unit may be a freestanding
structure or may be located within a detached garage.
Accessory Retail or Service. The sale of goods or provision of services located within the
same building or on the same lot as the principal institutional, office, or industrial use and
which supports or is cohesive with the principal use.
Adult Entertainment Establishment. Any business that is characterized by, or which places a
significant emphasis on, providing its patrons with merchandise, services, or entertainment
that is characterized by an emphasis on the depiction, exposing, describing, discussing or
"specified sexual activities" or "specified anatomical areas." For the purposes of this
definition, Adult Entertainment Establishments include adult bookstores, adult motion
picture theaters, adult massage parlors, adult saunas, adult companionship establishments,
adult health clubs, adult cabarets, adult novelty businesses, adult motion picture arcades,
adult modeling studios, adult hotel or motel, and adult body painting studios.
Animal Boarding, Shelter, or Daycare Center. Any structure or premises on which more than
three dogs or cats over six months of age are temporarily or permanently boarded as a
commercial service, including animal day care/spa/grooming facilities. A portion of the site
may be used for associated retail. Properties with multiple pet licenses in residential districts
shall be defined in Ch X Animal Control of the City Code.
Animal Veterinary Clinic or Hospital. A facility for the diagnosis, treatment, or hospitalization
of small animals, including dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, and other animals of a similar
nature. This use shall include staff member(s) with a current state Veterinary License in good
standing. The facility may also provide boarding for animals as part of medical services and
associated retail.
Automobile Recycling Center. A facility which includes automobile wrecking, salvage, and/or
recycling yard.
Automotive Fuel Station. Any building, land area, or other premises, or portion thereof, used
or intended to be used for the retail dispensing or sale of vehicular fuels. Convenience store
items such as groceries and household goods may also be sold on the premises.
Automotive Repair, Major. An establishment where major repair of motor vehicles is
conducted, including engine rebuilding, repairing, or reconditioning and collision service
which includes but is not limited to body, frame, or fender straightening and overall painting
of motor vehicles.
Automotive Service, Same Day. An establishment where minor repairs and servicing of motor
vehicles are conducted, including but not limited to, replacement of parts, oil changes, tire
Definitions 14 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
32
Jufn!3/
rotations, and sale of automobile accessories for passenger cars and trucks not exceeding
12,000 pounds gross weight.
Brewery, Winery, or Distillery. A facility that produces beer, wine, or other beverages made
using fermentation which contain at least one-half of one percent alcohol by volume.
Brewpub. A restaurant with an accessory brewery.
Cannabis Combination Business. A business with a cannabis mezzobusiness license with a
retail operations endorsement or a cannabis microbusiness license with a retail operations
endorsement from the State of Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management.
Cannabis Cultivation Business. A business with a cannabis cultivator license, medical
cannabis cultivator license, or cultivation endorsement from the State of Minnesota Office of
Cannabis Management.
Cannabis or Hemp Manufacturing. A business with a cannabis or hemp manufacturer license
or manufacturing endorsement from the State of Minnesota Office of Cannabis
Management, that is engaged in producing consumer items by packaging processed
cannabis or hemp plant materials or cannabis or hemp extract or combining materials or
extract with other pre-structured materials or components, but does not involve processing
raw plant materials.
Cannabis Processing or Extraction. A business with a cannabis or hemp manufacturer license
or manufacturing endorsement from the State of Minnesota Office of Cannabis
Management, that is engaged in the process of extracting cannabis concentrate from
cannabis plants or cannabis flower using heat, pressure, water, lipids, gases, solvents, or
other chemicals or chemical processes, but does not include the process of extracting
concentrate from hemp plants or hemp plant parts or the process of creating any artificially
derived cannabinoid.
Cannabis Retail Business. A retail location and the retail location(s) of a mezzobusinesses
with a retail operations endorsement, microbusinesses with a retail operations endorsement,
medical combination businesses operating a retail location, excluding lower-potency hemp
edible retailers.
Cannabis Transportation or Delivery. The transportation of cannabis products from one type
of cannabis business to another or to the end consumer.
Car Wash. An area of land and/or a structure with machine- or hand-operated facilities used
principally for the cleaning, washing, polishing, or waxing of motor vehicles.
Care Facility. A facility licensed by the state which provides meals, lodging, and services on a
regular basis, such as personal services, 24-hour supervision, social activities, and/or nursing
care to two or more individuals who require the assistance. Care facilities include facilities
such as assisted living, nursing homes, rest homes, and convalescent care. This use does not
include in-home residential care facilities.
Care Facility, Continuum Of. A residential facility or complex which provides more than one
type of living choice for adults, from independent living to long-term care.
Care Facility, Residential. An in-home residential facility licensed by the state which provides
primarily nonmedical care to individuals who are in need of personal assistance to manage
Definitions 15 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
33
Jufn!3/
the activities of daily life or for the protection of the individual. The number of people
allowed in each facility is dictated by state statute with either groups of six or few persons or
groups between seven – 16 persons.
Clinic. A facility used primarily for the provision of outpatient medical, dental, chiropractic,
therapeutic, optometric or mental health care and treatment.
Commercial Center, Large. Large commercial buildings with footprints at least 25,000 square
feet in size consisting of two or more separate businesses sharing common access,
circulation, and pedestrian and parking areas so that a public right-of-way is not needed to
get from one business to another.
Commercial Center, Small. Small commercial buildings with footprints no larger than 25,000
square feet in size consisting of two or more separate businesses sharing common access,
circulation, and pedestrian and parking areas so that a public right-of-way is not needed to
get from one business to the other.
Commercial Recreation, Indoor. Indoor recreational facilities operated as a business and
which are open to the public for a fee, including but not limited to, health clubs, bowling
alleys, swimming pools, tennis courts, country clubs, and arcades. Indoor commercial
recreation may have accessory outdoor recreation to serve patrons.
Commercial Recreation, Outdoor. Land or outdoor recreational facilities operated as a
business and which are open to the general public for a fee, including but not limited to, golf
courses and outdoor swimming pools. Such businesses may also provide a snack bar,
restaurant, retail sales of related items, and other support facilities.
Construction Contractor Yard. A lot or portion of a lot used to store and maintain
construction equipment and other materials customarily required in the building trades by a
construction contractor.
Crematory. A furnace for cremating; also: an establishment containing such a furnace.
Day Care Center. Any non-home based program, licensed by the state, that for
compensation or otherwise, provides for the care of children or adults outside their home
for part of a 24 hour day. Includes, but is not limited to, programs for children known as
nursery schools, preschools, day nurseries, child care centers, and day care facilities.
Day Care, Group Family. A dwelling unit where a resident of the dwelling is providing care as
defined and regulated under Minn. Rules 9502.
Drive-Through Establishment. A use, structure or portion of a principal structure accessory to
a retail or service use where patrons may purchase products or receive service without
having to leave their motor vehicles.
Dwelling. A building or portion thereof designed exclusively for residential occupancy.
Dwelling, Apartment. A residential structure containing seven or more dwelling units
designed exclusively for independent living, but sharing hallways and main entrances and
exits.
Dwelling, Attached Townhouse or Rowhouse. A single dwelling unit within a larger
residential structure containing three or more units which is separated from the adjoining
Definitions 16 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
34
Jufn!3/
dwelling unit(s) by a common wall. Each dwelling unit may be located on its own individual
lot or on a common lot containing all of the attached units, and each dwelling unit shall have
separate and individual entrances.
Dwelling, Manufactured Home. A structure, transportable in one or more sections, which is
built on a permanent chassis and designed for use as a dwelling with or without a
permanent foundation when attached to the required utilities. The term “manufactured
home” does not include the term “recreational vehicle.”
Dwelling, One Unit. A residential structure designed for one dwelling unit only. This
definition includes individual manufactured homes that are located outside of a
manufactured home park.
Dwelling, Three- To Six-Unit. A residential structure on a single lot which contains three, four,
five, or six separate dwelling units.
Dwelling, Two-Unit. A residential structure which contains two separate dwelling units.
Essential Services. Services provided by public and private utilities, necessary for the exercise
of the principal use or service of the principal structure. These services include underground,
surface or overhead gas, electrical, steam, water, sanitary sewerage, stormwater drainage
and communication systems and accessories thereto, such as poles, towers, wires, mains,
drains, vaults, culverts, laterals, sewers, pipes, catch basins, water storage tanks, conduits,
cables, fire alarm boxes, police call boxes, traffic signals, pumps, lift stations and hydrants,
but not including buildings used or intended to be used for human habitation.
Financial Institution. An establishment where the principal business is the receipt,
disbursement or exchange of funds and currencies, such as banks or credit unions.
Fleet Vehicle. Any motor vehicle a company owns or leases that is in the normal operation of
the accepted principal use. Vehicles not considered fleet vehicles include off-road,
construction and personal vehicles owned or leased by employees.
Funeral Home. A building or part thereof used for human funeral services. Such building may
contain space and facilities for:
A. Embalming and the performance of other services used in preparation of the dead
for burial;
B. The performance of autopsies and other surgical procedures;
C. The storage of caskets, urns, and other related funeral supplies;
D. The storage of funeral vehicles; or
E. A funeral chapel or other area used for the performance of funeral ceremonies,
mourning and viewing of the deceased.
Garden Center/Nursery. A business involving the retail sales of trees, flowering and
decorative plants, and shrubs for the purposes of transplanting. This use is conducted
primarily indoors.
Garage Sale. Home based retail sales event that is typically held in a garage, yard or
anywhere on the subject property and includes moving sales, boutiques sales and craft sales.
Definitions 17 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
35
Jufn!3/
Helicopter Landing Pad. A heliport, helipad, or helistop which provides helicopter landing
area for the transport of persons in need of emergency medical care or specialized
treatment, or the emergency transport of organs, blood, medicine, or medical equipment.
Home Occupation. A business, profession, occupation or trade conducted for gain or
support as an accessory use entirely within a dwelling, or a structure, which is clearly
incidental and secondary to the residential use of the premises and which does not change
the essential residential character of such premises.
Hospital. An institution open to the public, in which sick or injured persons receive medical,
surgical or psychiatric treatment which may include inpatient care or overnight
accommodations.
Hotel. A building consisting of six or more guest rooms and designed for occupancy as a
temporary lodging place of individuals.
Keeping of Bees. The long-term keeping of bees in a hive.
Keeping of poultry. The long-term keeping of chickens, geese and other fowl on a property.
Keeping of Livestock. The long-term keeping of livestock, including horses, cattle, goats,
sheep, swine and other similar animals used for utility.
Laboratory. A facility involved in scientific research, investigation, testing or experimentation,
but not including the manufacture or sale of products except as incidental to the main
purpose of the laboratory.
Liquor Store. A retail store which primarily sells alcoholic beverages for off-premises
consumption.
Makerspace or Studio. Work space for one or more artists, artisans, or craftspeople, including
the creation, sale, instruction, or exhibition of works of art. Makerspace activities may include
but are not limited to painting, jewelry making, printmaking, metalwork, furniture making,
and the creation of clothing/apparel.
Manufactured Home Park. A parcel of land under single control or ownership which has
been developed for the placement of two or more manufactured homes for residential use.
Manufacturing, Existing. Existing manufacturing uses located on lots less than 1.5 acres in
size.
Manufacturing, Heavy. An establishment or use of land that manufactures, assembles or
fabricates using processes that generally create odor, noise, vibration, illumination or
particulates which may impact surrounding properties. Examples of heavy manufacturing
include, but are not limited to, the following: large scale food and bottling operations;
lumber, milling and planing facilities; grain milling; cement, lime, gypsum or plaster
manufacture, aggregate, concrete, and asphalt plants; intensive metal fabrication; and
chemical manufacturing.
Manufacturing, Light. An establishment or use of land for the assembly or processing of
previously processed components or manufactured parts using processes that do not create
significant amounts of odors, noise, vibration, illumination or particulates that may impact
surrounding properties. Examples include, but are not limited to the following:
Definitions 18 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
36
Jufn!3/
manufacturing of food, pharmaceuticals, clothes, furniture (where wood is milled off-site),
hardware, toys, light sheet metal products or mechanical components; printing; and small
vehicle assembly.
Mining, Sand, Stone, and Gravel Extraction. A use involving on-site extraction of surface or
subsurface mineral products or natural resources. This use does not include grading and
removal of dirt and other materials associated with an approved project.
Mixed Use Building. A building which houses a mixture of two or more compatible land uses,
such as retail, office and recreational. Residential uses are not allowed as part of this use.
Motel. A building containing guest rooms, with direct access to garage or parking spaces,
and which is used for the accommodation of transient guests.
Motor Vehicle Fuel and Oil Sales. Any building or land area which is used or intended to be
used for the retail dispensing or sale of vehicular fuels or oil.
Motor Vehicle Sales or Rental. Any land or buildings used for the display, sale or rental of
new or used motor vehicles in operable condition. Leasing of vehicles is also included in this
use.
Museum/Art Gallery. An establishment in which collections of artistic, historical or scientific
objects are bought, sold, loaned, appraised or exhibited to the general public.
Off-Site Service Business. Any establishment where services are rendered off of the premises
of the primary business location including but not limited to plumbing, installation, electrical
or IT services.
Office. An establishment used primarily for conducting the predominantly administrative or
clerical service affairs of a business, profession, service, industrial, government or like activity.
This use may include ancillary services for office workers, such as a restaurant, coffee shop,
and child care facilities.
On-Sale Liquor. The sale of alcoholic beverages for direct on-site consumption, under a City
liquor license.
Outdoor Dining. A specified outdoor area for dining which is accessory to a principal
restaurant or food service use.
Outdoor Display. A temporary outdoor arrangement of the products a business sells outside
of the building the business occupies.
Outdoor Sales. Sales of items which are displayed outdoors, including but not limited to
recreational vehicles, manufactured homes, food, vehicles and equipment.
Outdoor Storage. The storage of business property for a period greater than 24 hours
outside of an enclosed building, excluding outdoor storage otherwise authorized by this
chapter. This use includes vehicles/trailers for rental and temporary exterior storage
containers.
Parking Lot. Any public or private land area designed and used for the surface parking of
motor vehicles.
Definitions 19 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
37
Jufn!3/
Pawn Shop. A commercial business that loans money on the security of pledges of personal
property, or deposits and conditional sales of personal property, or the purchase or sale of
personal property.
Place of Assembly. A building or indoor space used in whole or in part for the gathering
together of persons for civic and cultural purposes, including but not limited to, worship
facilities, meeting halls, conference centers, fraternal organizations, and theater, dance or
music performance facilities.
Public Building or Use. A building or use which is owned or managed by a public entity.
Schools are a separate use as otherwise defined.
Railroad Use. Accessory uses which are served by the railroad.
Recycling, Scrap or Salvage Yard. Any area, lot, land, parcel, building or structure, or part
thereof, used for the storage, collection, processing, purchase, sale, salvage or disposal of
scrap, waste, reclaimable or recyclable material or debris.
Recreational Amenity, Private. A private area or facility intended to serve the recreational
needs of a specific residential population. Private recreational amenities may include sport
courts, walking trails or playground equipment.
Recreational Facility, Public. An indoor or outdoor public complex or destination designed
and equipped for the conduct of sports and leisure-time activities. This facility may include
swimming pools, tennis courts or other similar uses. Related accessory buildings and
structures are included within this use.
Restaurant. An establishment where food and drink are prepared and served for human
consumption, principally within the establishment or for take-out purposes to be consumed
off-premises.
Retail or Service Use. A commercial establishment that provides goods or services directly to
the consumer. The storage of merchandise for the retail or service use on the same lot is
incidental to this use.
Sacred Community. Means a residential settlement established on or contiguous to the
grounds of a religious institution's primary worship location primarily for the purpose of
providing permanent housing for chronically homeless persons, extremely low-income
persons, and designated volunteers that meet the requirements of Minn. Stat. § 327.30.
School, College/Vocational/Business. A building or buildings used for the purpose of public
or private post-secondary education.
School, Elementary, Middle, or Secondary. A building used for the purpose of public
elementary, middle, or secondary education, which meets all the requirements of
compulsory education laws of the State of Minnesota. Residential accommodations are not
provided as part of this use.
School, Private Elementary, Middle, or Secondary. A building used for the purpose of private
elementary, middle, or secondary education, which meets all the requirements of
compulsory education laws of the State of Minnesota. Residential accommodations are not
provided as part of this use.
Definitions 20 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
38
Jufn!3/
Solar Carport. A solar energy system of any size that is installed on a carport structure that is
accessory to a parking area, and which may include electric vehicle supply equipment or
energy storage facilities.
Solar Collector. The panel or device in a solar energy system that collects solar radiant
energy and transforms it into thermal, mechanical, chemical, or electrical energy. The
collector does not include frames, supports or mounting hardware.
Solar Energy. Radiant energy received from the sun that can be collected in the form of heat
or light by a solar collector.
Solar Energy System. A device, array of devices or structural design feature, the purpose of
which is to provide for generation or storage of electricity from sunlight, or the collection,
storage and distribution of solar energy for space heating or cooling, daylight for interior
lighting or water heating.
Solar Energy Systems, Building-integrated. A solar energy system that is an integral part of a
principal or accessory building, rather than a separate mechanical device, replacing or
substituting for an architectural or structural component of the building. Building integrated
systems include, but are not limited to, photovoltaic or hot water solar energy systems that
are contained within roofing materials, windows, skylights and awnings.
(Solar), Ground-mounted. A solar energy system mounted on a rack or pole that rests or is
attached to the ground. Ground-mounted systems can be either accessory or principal uses.
(Solar), Roof-mounted. A solar energy system mounted on a rack that is fastened to or
ballasted on a structure roof. Roof-mounted systems are accessory to the principal use.
Standalone Store, Retail or Service, Large. A detached structure with a footprint of at least
25,000 square feet in size where goods or services are sold.
Standalone Store, Retail or Service, Small. A detached structure with a footprint of no more
than 25,000 square feet in size where goods or services are sold.
Storage Facility, Personal. A building or group of buildings consisting of individual, self-
contained units leased to individuals, organizations or businesses for self-service storage of
personal property.
Taproom. An area accessory to a brewery, winery or distillery for the consumption of
alcoholic beverages produced on the premises.
Towing/Impound Establishment. An establishment which provides for the removal and
temporary storage of vehicles to be claimed by titleholders or their agents but which does
not include disposal, permanent disassembly, salvage or accessory storage of inoperable
vehicles.
Transportation Garage. A structure or area of land used for the parking, storage, fueling,
repair, maintenance and washing of transportation vehicles such as buses, taxis and medical
transport.
Trucking Terminal. Any premises used by a motor freight company that is a carrier of goods,
which is the origin or destination point of goods being transported, for the purpose of
Definitions 21 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
39
Jufn!3/
storing, transferring, loading or unloading goods. This may include the repair and service of
vehicles over 9,000 pounds and areas for the temporary storage of such vehicles.
Utilities. Transmission facilities and structures for electric power, gas, water, sewer, telephone
and cable television.
Warehouse and Distribution Facility. An establishment engaged in the storage, packing and
distribution of goods and materials.
Wholesale Establishment. The selling of goods, equipment and materials, including cannabis,
in bulk to another business which in turn sells to the final customer. This use does not
include exterior storage.
Wind Energy Conversion System (WECS). An electrical generating facility that consists of a
wind turbine, feeder line(s), associated controls and may include a tower.
Wireless telecommunications antenna. A physical device attached to and support by a
building or structure other than a tower through which wireless telecommunications signals
authorized by the Federal Communications Commission are transmitted or received. This
term shall not include antennas used by amateur radio operators.
Wireless Telecommunications Facility. Any cable, wire, line, wave guide, antenna or any other
equipment or facility 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.
Wireless Tower. A self-supporting monopole structure constructed from grade which
supports wireless telecommunications facilities. The term “tower” shall not include amateur
radio operator’s equipment as licensed by the FCC. Lattice or guyed structures are
prohibited.
601.04 SUBDIVISION DEFINITIONS
Applicant. Any person, firm, corporation, company, partnership, or association who causes
land to be divided, platted or planned into a subdivision for such person or others.
Auditor's Subdivision. All lands formerly described by complicated metes and bounds
descriptions where the Anoka County Auditor has simplified the description for tax purposes
by assigning a lot number.
Development Agreement. A written contract between City and the applicant, drafted by the
City Attorney in conjunction with the approval by the City of a subdivision.
Improvement. Any drainage ditch, roadway, parkway, sidewalk, trail, pedestrian way, land-
scaping, lighting, off-street parking area, grading, utility, lot improvement or other similar
facility.
Private Improvement. Any improvement for which the City does not assume ownership or
the responsibility for maintenance and operation, but which instead is owned, maintained
and operated by a private property owner or group of private property owners.
Definitions 22 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
40
Jufn!3/
Public Improvement. Any improvement for which the City may ultimately assume the
ownership and responsibility for maintenance and operation, or which may affect an
improvement for which local government responsibility is established.
Lot. An existing division of land that can be conveyed without further subdivision. The term
"lot" is generally interchangeable with the terms "parcel" or "tract."
Lot Split. Division of a single platted lot to create no more than two lots where the newly
created property line will not cause the remaining portion of the lot or any structure to be in
violation of this Chapter or Chapter 152 Zoning.
Metes and Bounds Description. A description of real property which is not described by
reference to a lot or block shown on a map, but is described by starting at a known point
and described the bearings and distances of the lines forming the boundaries of the
property or delineating a fractional portion of the section, lot or area by described lines or
portions thereof.
Plat. A map, drawing or chart which graphically delineates the boundary of land parcels for
the purpose of identification and record of title. The plat is a recorded legal document and
must conform to all Minnesota State laws.
Plat, Final. The final map, drawing or chart on which the subdivider's plan of subdivision is
presented to the City Council for approval and which, if approved, will be submitted to the
County Recorder or Registrar of Titles.
Plat, Preliminary. A preliminary map, drawing or chart indicating the proposed layout of a
subdivision to be submitted to the City Council for its consideration.
Public Right-Of-Way. For purposes of Chapter 205, “Right-of-Way” or “Public Right of Way”
means the area on, below, or above a public roadway, highway, street, alley, bicycle lane or
public sidewalk in which the City, County, or State has an interest, including other dedicated
rights-of-way for travel purposes and utility easements of the City, County or State. A right-
of-way does not include the airwaves above a right-of-way with regard to cellular or other
non-wire telecommunications or broadcast services.
Outlot. A lot remnant or parcel of land left over after platting, which is intended as open
space or other use, for which no building permit shall be issued.
Registered Land Survey. A survey of unplatted registered land which meets the requirements
of Minnesota Statutes Section 508.47, subdivision 4. A registered land survey may be used
as a means to subdivide property.
Street. A public or private thoroughfare which provides the principal means of access to the
abutting property. A map of the following street classifications shall be designated by the
current Comprehensive Plan.
A. Street, Arterial. A street which provides for traffic movement to and from
municipalities and the surrounding areas, to and from freeways/expressways and
collector streets and between major parts of an urban area. Intersections are at
grade and direct access to abutting property is intentionally limited.
Definitions 23 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
41
Jufn!3/
B. Street, Collector. A street which collects and distributes the internal traffic within an
area of a community such as a residential neighborhood or industrial district and
between arterial and local streets, providing some access to abutting property.
C. Street, Corporate Boundary. A public street, road, or highway that can be used to
define part of a corporate boundary.
D. Street, Cul-De-Sac. A local street with only one outlet and having an appropriate
terminal for the safe and convenient reversal of traffic movement.
E. Street, Half Width. A portion of the width of a street, usually along the edge or
boundary of a development, where the remaining portion of the street is to be
provided by the development of an adjacent property.
F. Street, Interior. A private roadway located within the lot boundary.
G. Street, Trunk Highway. The trunk highway system is a network of interstate and state
highways that connects communities throughout the state.
H. Street, Local. A street of limited continuity designed primarily to carry traffic to the
abutting properties and higher order streets, as defined in the Transportation section
of the current Fridley Comprehensive Plan.
Subdivision. The separation of an area, parcel or tract of land, under single ownership, into
two or more parcels, tracts, lots or long-term leasehold interests where the creation of the
leasehold interest necessitates the creation of streets, or roads, for residential, commercial,
industrial, or other use or any combination thereof, except those separations referenced in
Minnesota Statutes Section 462.358, subdivision 4b:
Subdivision, zero lot line. A subdivision comprised of lots where the location of the building
on the lot is such that one or more of the building’s exterior edges rests directly on a side lot
line and complies with all fire code requirements for construction on a lot line.
Definitions 24 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1015999.v1
42
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 610Zoning Districts
610.01 ESTABLISHMENT OF DISTRICTS
1. For the purpose of this Title, the following zoning districts are hereby established within
the City of Fridley:
(a) Residential Districts
(1) R-1 Traditional Single-Unit Residential District
(2) R-2 Two-Unit Residential District
(3) R-3 Attached Residential District
(4) R-4 Manufactured Home Park District
(5) R-H Hyde Park Neighborhood District
(b) Non-Residential Districts
(1) B-1 Local Business District
(2) B-2 Regional Business District
(3) M-1 Light Industrial District
(4) M-2 Heavy Industrial District
(5) M-3 Heavy Industrial District, Outdoor Intensive
(6) M-O Heavy Industrial District, Onaway Addition
(7) P Public Facilities District
(c) Special Districts
(1) S-2 Redevelopment District
(d) Overlay Districts
(1) O-1 Floodplain Management Overlay District
(2) O-2 Critical Areas District
(3) O-3 Telecommunications Towers and Facilities District
(4) O-4 Pre-1955 Residential Lots
(5) O-5 Shoreland Overlay District
(6) O-6 Transit Oriented Development
610.02 OFFICIAL ZONING MAP
1. The location and boundaries of the districts established by this Chapter are hereby
shown upon the City of Fridley Official Zoning Map, also known as the “Zoning Map,” as
adopted on December 29, 1955, and amended up to the date of adoption of this Title.
FR520\\21\\1016698.v1
43
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
2. Said map and all notations, references and other information shown thereon, shall be as
much a part of this Title as if the matters and information set forth by said map were all
fully described herein.
610.03 DISTRICT BOUNDARIES
1. The district boundaries shall be determined by measurement from and as shown on the
Zoning Map, and in case of any questions as to the interpretation of such boundary lines,
the Community Development Director shall interpret the map according to the
reasonable intent of this Chapter.
2. Where uncertainty exists as to the boundaries of districts as shown on the Zoning Map,
the following rules shall apply:
(a) Boundaries indicated as approximately following the centerlines of streets, highways
or alleys shall be construed to follow such centerlines.
(b) Boundaries indicated as approximately following platted lot lines shall be construed
to follow such lot lines.
(c) Boundaries indicated as approximately following city boundaries shall be construed
as following city boundaries.
(d) Boundaries indicated as following shorelines shall be construed to follow such
shorelines and, in the event of change in the shoreline, shall be construed as moving
with the actual shoreline. Boundaries indicated as approximately following the
centerline of streams, rivers, canals, lakes or other bodies of water shall be construed
to follow such centerlines.
(e) Boundaries indicated as parallel to or extensions of features indicated in the
preceding shall be so construed. Distances not specifically indicated on the Zoning
Map shall be to the scale of the map.
610.04 GENERAL PROVISIONS FOR ALL ZONING DISTRICTS
1. Every lot, in order to be built on, shall have at least one lot line which:
(a) Abuts for at least 25 feet along a street; or
(b) Is along a permanent, unobstructed easement of access to the lot from a public
street as approved by the City.
2. Access across the right-of-way is restricted to driveways and sidewalks.
3. Exceptions to Height Requirements:
(a) The building height limits for principal buildings established herein for districts shall
not apply to belfries, cupolas, domes, spires, monuments, airway beacons, radio
towers, windmills, flagpoles, chimneys, flues, bulkheads, elevators, water tanks, poles,
towers and other structures for essential services, nor to similar structures or
necessary mechanical appurtenances extending above the roof of any building and
not occupying more than 25 percent of the area of such roof.
4. Required Setbacks and Open Space:
Zoning Districts 2 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016698.v1
44
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
(a)Where the front setback of existing buildings is greater than the minimum front
setback required and said existing buildings are within 100 feet on either side of a
structure to be erected, then the setback for the new structure may be six feet more
or less of this mean depth of the adjacent structures, but in no case shall it be less
than the required front setback. In the case where one of the adjacent properties is
vacant, the assumed setback will be the minimum front setback requirement of the
zoning district that applies to the property(see Figure X).
Figure X
(b)In computing the depth of a rear setback for any principal building where the rear
line of the lot adjoins an alley, one half of the width of the alley may be included in
the calculation, provided that the actual rear yard depth on the lot shall not be less
than 25 feet in any district.(See Figure X).
Figure X
Zoning Districts3 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016698.v1
45
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
5.The following shall not be considered an encroachment on setback requirements:
(a)Basement egress window wells required to meet fireor buildingcode requirements.
(b)Chimneys, flues,ornamental architectural features, eaves, bays, guttersand other
similar projections are permittedon the primary structureprovided that they do not
extend within three feet of the lot line.
(c)Canopies and steps to building entrances may extend no more than 10 feet into any
required front yard.
(d)Unenclosed porches, decks, canopies and steps to building entrances may extend no
more than 10 feet into any required rear setbackand a maximum of three feet into
any required side setback, provided they do not extend nearer than five feet to any
lot line.
(e)On existing structures, enclosed entryways may extend no more than five feet into
the required setbacks provided they are only one story in height and do not exceed
50 square feet.
(f)Essential services, utility electric powertransmission linesand communication
transmission lines are exempt from the setback and distance requirements of this
Chapter.
Zoning Districts4 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016698.v1
46
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
6.Required distance between proposed and protected uses.
(a)The required distance between uses shall be computed by direct measurement in a
straight line from the nearest legal parcel line of the land used for the protected
uses (e.g., residential uses; schools) to the nearest external portion of the building in
which the proposed use (e.g., automotive uses; cannabis uses) is to be located(see
Figure X). Figure X
7.Vision Safety Zone
(a)In no case shall a fence or similar barrier impede vehicular vision or cause a
hazardous condition to exist.
(b)No plantings or structures shall impede vision between a height of 30 inches and
seven feet above the curb line in the Vision Safety Zone, which extends at the
intersection:
(1)40 feet from the corner of the curb;
(2)20 feetfrom thecorner of an alley; and
Zoning Districts5 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016698.v1
47
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
(3)10 feet from the corner of a driveway. (See Figure X). Figure X
8.Adequate area shall be designed for snow storage such that clear visibility shall
be afforded from the property to any public street.
9.Provisions for active transportationshall be provided on those parcels abutting streets
designated for trails or sidewalks in the currently approved version of the City’s Active
Transportation Plan.
(a)At a minimum, the Cityshall require the designation of an easement. The City shall
determinethe required width of easements and elevations for grades at the time a
building is constructed on the property.
(b)At its discretion, theCitymay require the construction of a pedestrian orbicycle path
as part of new construction, additions and parking lot improvements.
(c)If not constructed immediately, any landscaping or irrigation systems installed in the
easement must be removed and replaced at the property owner’s expense when the
trail or sidewalk is installed in the future.
10.Outdoor storage
(a)Outdoor storage of materials, equipment and vehicles is prohibited as a principal use
in all districts unless otherwise approved through a conditional use permit, following
the procedures in Chapter 650, or listed as an exemption by this section. Accessory
outdoor storage must adhere to the standards in Chapter 621.
Zoning Districts6 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016698.v1
48
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
(b) The following is exempt from the outdoor storage requirements and are only
permitted as an accessory use to one- or two-unit dwellings:
(1) Split and neatly stacked firewood in the side or rear yard.
(2) Private outdoor recreational equipment currently being used or intended for use
upon the premises.
(3) Landscaping materials and machinery currently being used or intended for use
on a current project upon the premises.
(4) Boats, non-motorized camping trailers, and empty utility trailers in the side or
rear yard. Boats, non-motorized camping trailers and empty utility trailers stored
in the front yard are required to be located on a hard surface driveway and must
be set back at least 15 feet from the back of the street curb.
610.05 NONCONFORMING USES AND STRUCTURES
1. The provisions of this Chapter shall pertain to all lawful nonconforming lots, uses or
structures as applicable and specifically to the performance standards outlined in the
established districts.
2. Any nonconformity, lawfully existing at the time of the adoption of an additional control
under this Chapter, may be continued, including through repair, replacement,
restoration, maintenance or improvement, but not including expansion. All
nonconformities shall eventually be brought into conformity, if any of the following
situations apply:
(a) The nonconformity or occupancy is discontinued for a period of more than one year.
(b) Any nonconforming use is destroyed by fire or other peril to the extent of greater
than 50 percent of its estimated market value, as indicated in the records of the
assessor at the time of damage, and no building permit has been applied for within
180 days of when the property is damaged. In this case, the City may impose
reasonable conditions upon a building permit in order to mitigate any newly created
impact on adjacent property or water body.
(c) When a nonconforming structure in the shoreland or floodplain districts is destroyed,
additional provisions may apply, as described in Section 6xx.xx and 6xx.xx. The
continuance of nonconforming uses shall not prevent or interfere with action that
may be taken to abate any nuisance in any manner provided by law.
3. Any structure or any portion of a structure which is situated unlawfully within a public
street or alley or other public way or thoroughfare, is hereby declared to be a
nonconforming use, whether or not its use is otherwise in conformity with the
regulations of the district in which said structure is located. Any such structure shall be
permitted only under the authorization of an Encroachment Agreement between the City
and the Property Owner.
4. The burden is on the landowner to establish that their property qualifies for legal
nonconforming rights.
Zoning Districts 7 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016698.v1
49
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
5. The City may grant an administrative nonconforming expansion permit as described in
Section 650.02 (6)XX.
Zoning Districts 8 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016698.v1
50
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 611Residential Zoning Districts
611.01 APPLICATION
1. The restrictions, regulations, standards and guidelines in this Chapter for land use and
development shall apply to the following zoning districts within the City. Hereafter, these
districts may be collectively referred to as “Residential Districts”:
R-1 Traditional Single-Unit Residential District
R-2 Two-Unit Residential District
R-3 Attached Residential District
R-4Manufactured Home Park District
R-H Hyde Park Neighborhood District
611.02 DISTRICT INTENTS
1. The following statements specify the intents of the residential zoning districts
established to regulate areas of the City considered appropriate for residential uses:
(a) R-1 Traditional Single-Unit Residential. The purpose of the R-1 District is to provide
for and preserve residential neighborhoods primarily containing single-unit detached
dwellings.
(b) R-2 Two-Unit Residential. The purpose of the R-2 District is to provide for and
preserve existing two-unit residential properties primarily consisting of duplexes and
attached residential structures with a maximum of two dwelling units per building.
(c) R-3 Attached Residential. The purpose of the R-3 District is to accommodate a range
of attached residential structures including rowhouses, townhouses and apartments.
(d) R-4 Manufactured Home Park. The purpose of the R-4 District is to establish and
preserve neighborhoods comprised of manufactured homes.
(e) R-H Hyde Park Neighborhood. The purpose of the R-H District is to:
(1) Establish a zoning mechanism for the neighborhood that will allow a variety of
housing types on lots with reduced lot sizes and setbacks.
(2) Support the residential character of the neighborhood.
(3) Protect the property rights of all landowners, while promoting reinvestment and
development in the neighborhood.
611.03 USES
1. Table XXX Principal Uses and Table XXX Accessory Uses list land uses and indicate
whether they are permitted, permitted with standards (reference Chapter 620 and 621
for Principal and Accessory Use Specific Standards), conditional, or prohibited in each
FR520\\21\\1016712.v1
51
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
zoning district. The following definitions shall be referenced when using Tables XXX and
XXX.
(a) Permitted Use – a “P”’ in a cell of the use tables indicates that the land use is allowed
by right in the zoning district.
(b) Permitted with Standards Use – a “PS” in a cell of the use tables indicates that the
land use is allowed in the zoning district as long as it meets the certain use-specific
standards as described in Chapter 620 and 621.
(a) Conditional Use – a “C” in a cell of the use tables indicates that the land use is
allowed in the zoning district only upon approval of a conditional use permit as
described in Chapter 650 Proceduresand compliance with any applicable use-
specific standards identified in Chapter 620 and 621.
(b) Prohibited Use – a blank cell in the use tables indicates that the land use is prohibited
in that zoning district.
2. In the event a proposed use is not listed in the use tables, the Community Development
Director shall make a determination if the use is consistent by type, intensity, physical
characteristics, style, size and purpose with any use listed in Tables XXX and XXX.
(a) If the proposed use found to be consistent with another listed use, the proposed use
shall be treated the same as the similar one identified by the Community
Development Director.
(b) If the proposed use is not found to be consistent with any listed use, the City Council,
Planning Commission, or property owner may request an amendment to this Chapter
to provide guidance for the proposed use as described in Section 650.04.
Table XXX Principal Uses
Residential Use
Standards
R-1R-2R-3 R-4R-H (S-1)
References
Principal Use Type
Residential
Family Living
Dwelling, one unit detached P PP
Dwelling, two unit PP P
Dwelling, three- to six-unit P P
Dwelling, attached townhouse or rowhouse PSPS See Chapter
620
Dwelling, apartment (7+ units) PSSee Chapter
620
See Chapter
Manufactured home park C C C C
611
Group Living
Residential Zoning Districts 2 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016712.v1
52
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
Residential Use
Standards
R-1R-2R-3 R-4R-H (S-1)
References
Principal Use Type
Care facilityC C C C See Chapter
620
Continuum of care facility C C C
Residential care facility, licensed in-home (6 or PSPS PS See Chapter
fewer persons)620
Residential care facility, licensed in-home (7-16 PSPSPSPSSee Chapter
persons) 620
Community Services
Clinic C
Daycare centerC C C C C See Chapter
620
Hospital C
Place of assembly C C C See Chapter
620
Sacred community PSPS PSSee Chapter
620
Public school, elementary, middle, or secondaryC C C
Private school, elementary, middle, or secondary C C C
Arts, Entertainment, or Recreation
Recreational facility, public P PP P
Transportation and Utilities
Utilities (transformers, stations, etc.) P PP P P
Table XXX Accessory Uses
Residential Use
Standard
Accessory UseType R-1 R-2R-3 R-4 R-H (S-1)
References
See Chapter
Accessory dwelling unit, attached PS PSPSPS
621
See Chapter
Accessory dwelling unit, detached C C C C
621
See Chapter
Accessory structurePS PSPSPS PS
621
See Chapter
Daycare center PS PSPSPS PS
621
Residential Zoning Districts 3 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016712.v1
53
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
Residential Use
Standard
Accessory UseTypeR-1R-2R-3R-4R-H (S-1)
References
Day care, group family P PP P P
See Chapter
EV chargingPS PSPSPS PS
621
See Chapter
Farmers marketPS PS PS
621
See Chapter
Garage salePSPSPSPSPS
621
See Chapter
Helicopter landing pad PS
621
See Chapter
Home occupation PS PSPSPS PS
621
See Chapter
Keeping of bees PS PSPS
621
See Chapter
Keeping of livestock PS PSPS
621
See Chapter
Keeping of poultry PS PSPS
621
See Chapter
Mobile food unit PS PSPSPS PS
621
Recreational amenity, private P PP P P
See Chapter
Sacred community PS PSPS
621
See Chapter
Short term vacation rental PS PSPS PS
621
See Chapter
Solar energy systemPS PSPSPS PS
621
Utilities (transformers, stations, P PP P P
etc.)
See Chapter
Wind energy conversion system, C C C C C
621
small (WECS)
See Chapter
Wireless facility PS PSPSPS PS
621
Residential Zoning Districts 4 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016712.v1
54
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
611.04 LOT AND SITE DIMENSIONS
1. All uses in Tables XXX and XXX shall comply with the lot and site dimensional
requirements set forth in the following tables and all other applicable regulations set
forth in this Chapter.
ll lot and site dimension standards listed in this Section are subject to the standards
2. A
and exemptions listed in Chapter 610 Intro to Zoning Districts.
3. The following shall apply for any development that includes postage stamp lots:
(a) Lot width of the common lot shall be equal to or greater than the combined lot
width requirement of the individual units contained within the common lot.
(b) Lot area shall equal or be greater than the combined lot area requirement of the
individual units. The lot area calculation shall include the common lot plus each
individual unit lot area.
(c) In any development that includes postage stamp lots, setbacks shall be calculated
from the common property lot line rather than individual unit lot line.
4. Table XXX establishes the minimum lot area and lot width requirements for all residential
zoning districts.
Table XXX Lot Dimensions
Zoning UseMinimum Lot Minimum Lot Width (ft.)
District Area (sq. ft.)
11
Single unit 9,000 75
R-1
All other uses 20,000 N/A
1
Single unit 5,000 40
R-2 Two-unit 9,000 total 75
All other uses 20,000 N/A
Two-unit 6,000 total 50
3-6 unit3,000 per unit 75'; 85' if more than 3 units
R-3 Attached townhouse3,000 per unit 75' for whole development
Apartment 1,500 per unit 100
All other uses 20,000 N/A
R-4 All uses3,500 per unit
1
R-H (S-1) All uses7,500 60'; 65' if corner lot
1
Lots established prior to 1955 have a minimum lot area of 4,000 sq. ft. and a minimum lot
width of 40'. See O-4 Pre-1955 Residential Lots .
5. Table XXX establishes the minimum site dimension standards for all residential zoning
districts. Setbacks for any use not listed shall be the most restrictive of the base district.
Residential Zoning Districts 5 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016712.v1
55
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
Table XXX Site Dimensions
Use TypesPrincipal Building Setbacks (ft.)
Zoning Max. Bldg Max. Bldg
District Front Side Rear Corner Coverage Height (ft.)
R-1 Single unit 2510' living 25 17.5 25% 30
5' garage
All other 2510 25 17.5 25% 30
uses
R-2 All 2510' living 25 17.5 30% 30
residential 5' garage
uses
All other 2510 25 17.5 30% 30
uses
R-3 Two-unit2510' living 25 17.5 35% 30
5' garage
3-6 unit 2510 25 17.5 35% 45
Attached 2520' perimeter setback 17.5 50% of 30
townhouse around entire entire
project; project
10' minimum
building separation
Apartment 3525' perimeter setback17.5 50% 65'; 45' if
within 50 ft.
of R-1 or
R-2 district
All other 3510 25 17.5 35% 45
uses
R-4 See District Standards in Section 611.05
1
R-H (S-All uses 257.5 25; 15' 20' 35% 30
1) for an measure
attached d from
garage back of
in the curb
rear of
the lot
1
Where a house is built without an attached garage, a minimum side yard requirement shall
be 7.5' on one side and 13' on the other. Where a house is built with an attached garage, the
side yard adjoining the attached garage may be reduced to not less than 5', provided that the
height of the garage on that side is not more than 14'.
Residential Zoning Districts 6 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016712.v1
56
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
611.05 DISTRICT STANDARDS
1.In all residential districts, occupancy in dwelling units shall be limited to no morethan
three persons in any efficiency unit, and no more than two persons per bedroom, plus
one additional resident per dwelling unit.
2. R-1 District Standards
(a) Only one principal structure shall be located on a lot.
3. R-1, R-2 and RH Districts
(a) All garages whether attached to, tucked under or detached from the principal
dwelling are considered to be an accessory structure and shall not exceed 100
percent of the first-floor area of the dwelling unit or a maximum of 1,000 square feet.
4. R-4 District Standards
(a) Purpose
(1) The purpose of this Chapter is to establish a process which will permit the
placement of a new manufactured home park or the expansion of an existing
manufactured homes park within the City.
(2) This Chapter is also established to ensure the health, safety and general welfare
of owners of manufactured homes within existing manufactured home parks.
This is accomplished by adopting and enforcing minimum standards related to
location of the home, use of the home, and the construction, alteration, and
arrangement of homes on lots within a manufactured home park.
(b) Permit Required. No person shall establish, maintain, operate, or expand a
manufactured home park as defined by Minnesota Statutes 327.14, subdivision 3
within the City without first obtaining a conditional use permit from the City. Prior to
issuance of the conditional use permit, the City shall ensure that the manufactured
home park has a license from the Department of Health, Anoka County or the
appropriate licensing authority.
(c) Conflicts
(1) This Chapter is intended to complement other municipal, state, and federal
regulations that affect the establishment or expansion of manufactured home
parks. This Chapter is not intended to revoke or repeal any other public law,
ordinance, regulation or permit.
(2) Whenever the provisions of this Chapter impose greater restrictions on the
establishment or expansion of a manufactured home park than those of any
statute, other city code provision, or regulation; the provisions of this Chapter
shall apply.
(3) Where the provisions of any statute, other city code provision, or regulation
impose greater restrictions than this Chapter on the establishment or expansion
Residential Zoning Districts 7 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016712.v1
57
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
of a manufactured home park, the provisions of that statute, other city code
provision, or regulation shall apply.
(d) Requirements for a new manufactured home park or the expansion of an existing
manufactured homes park within the City are as follows:
(1) Application
((a)) Requests to establish or expand a manufactured home park shall be
reviewed and decided through the conditional use permit process outlined in
the City’s Zoning Code Section 650. A conditional use permit is required in
order to establish or expand a manufactured home park in the City.
((b)) In addition to the information that is required for a conditional use
permit, the application requires the following additional information:
((1)) A written narrative which includes: a description of the proposed
new manufactured home park or expansion area, the number of units
proposed, how it will be managed, a description of storm shelters(s), a
description of other amenities being proposed, the locations of proposed
green space, etc.
((2)) Development plans for the proposed manufactured home park or
expansion areas showing all information deemed necessary by the City to
ensure that the proposed use will conform to all City Code standards.
Including but not limited to the following:
(((A))) A survey of the property clearly delineating all lot lines, existing
and proposed improvements, utilities and easements;
(((B))) Proposed location(s) for each manufactured home;
(((C))) Proposed roadways and driveways;
(((D))) Proposed utilities to service each manufactured home site and
proposed grading and drainage plan; and
(((E))) Proposed landscaping and screening plan and outdoor storage
space (if applicable).
(2) Fees. The application shall be accompanied with the required fee for a
conditional use permit as set forth in the Fees Chapter of the Code.
(3) Location Restrictions. A conditional use permit for a new manufactured home
park or the expansion of a manufactured home park shall only be issued for
property that complies with the requirements of Minnesota Statutes Section
462.357, subdivision 1(b).
earing and Process. A public hearing and process shall be consistent with all
(4) H
procedures outlined in the City’s Zoning Code Chapter 650.
(5) Building Permits
Residential Zoning Districts 8 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016712.v1
58
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
((a)) The applicant for a building permit for the construction of a manufactured
home park or any part thereof shall comply will all appliable provisions of the
State Building Code.
((b)) Each application shall be accompanied by a detailed set of plans for the
proposed construction and improvements of the site.
((c)) Every application for a building permit to construct individual
manufactured homes authorized by the conditional use permit shall be
accompanied by certification that the individual unit meets all requirements
of the State of Minnesota, including, but not limited to, the Manufactured
Home Building Code as defined by Minnesota Statutes Section 327.31,
subdivision 3.
(e) Manufactured Home Park Development Standards
(1) Minimum Area and Maximum Density
((a)) The size of a manufactured home park base lot shall determine the
maximum number of manufactured homes that can be placed in the park.
Steps to make this determination are as follows:
((1)) At least two percent of the proposed base lot shall be devoted to
a recreation area which much be established, constructed and maintained
for the benefit of the manufactured home park residents.
((2)) The location(s) for an on-site community storm shelter shall be
identified along with locations for on-site management facilities. All land
within 10 feet of such facilities shall be excluded from land eligible for the
placement of manufactured homes.
((3)) For every 3,500 square feet of land available after establishment of
the required recreation area, storm shelter and on-site management
facilities; one manufactured home may be located within the new
proposed park or park expansion area.
(2) Minimum Setbacks
((a)) Perimeter Lot Setbacks. The following minimum setbacks apply to
manufactured home parks:
((1)) 30 feet from all adjacent public right-of-way;
((2)) 30 feet from all adjacent residentially zoned property having a
different zoning classification than the manufactured home park; and
((3)) Five feet from all side and rear property lines abutting the same
zoning classification as the manufactured home park or commercial or
industrial zoned property.
((b)) Internal Unit Setbacks. The following minimum setbacks apply to homes
within a manufactured home park:
((1)) 10 feet from all internal public and private streets or alleys;
Residential Zoning Districts 9 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016712.v1
59
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
((2)) 10 feet between the long sides of adjacent manufactured homes
and structures physically attached to the manufactured home. The initial
unit layout authorized by the conditional use permit shall demonstrate
there is ample room for accessory structures to be built with each unit
while still maintaining the required 10-foot separation; and
((3)) Three feet between manufactured homes parked end to end.
((4)) Three feet between a manufactured home and the side lot lines of
the Manufactured Home Park.
(3) Parking. At least two off-street parking spaces located adjacent to each
manufactured home shall be provided for each unit. Parking spaces shall be
constructed of concrete or asphalt.
(4) Street Requirements
((a)) Public streets shall comply with City requirements specified in Chapter XX.
((b)) If private streets are provided, they shall comply with requirements as
determined by the City Engineer.
((c)) Curbing requirements. A concrete curb shall be constructed on each side
of the street of a public street. The curb shall be of a standard approved by
the City. Requirements for private streets shall be determined by the City
Engineer.
((d)) Sidewalk requirements. A concrete sidewalk not less than 30 inches wide
shall be constructed adjacent to the concrete curb on the unit side and shall
be connected to the patio or parking pad.
(5) Landscaping
((a)) Landscaping requirements shall comply with Chapter 632, unless
otherwise approved through the conditional use permit process.
((b)) Tree per lot requirement. At least one tree shall be planted and
maintained near each unit. The tree shall have a minimum caliper of 2.5
inches at the time of planting.
((c)) Grass cover requirement. The land area for each unit and within the
perimeter setbacks shall be sodded and maintained with grass except for
areas used for the manufactured home, patio, sidewalk, driveway, and off-
street parking.
((d)) Perimeter Buffer Zone.
((1)) A 20-foot-wide perimeter buffer zone shall be provided along
manufactured home park property lines not abutting a public right-of-
way.
((2)) The buffer zone shall be comprised of a mixture of evergreen and
deciduous trees, shrubs and ground cover.
((3)) The buffer zone shall be free of buildings and structures.
Residential Zoning Districts 10 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016712.v1
60
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
((4)) The buffer zone may be used as part of the dedicated recreation
area if the City finds that it is suitable for that purpose as part of the
conditional use permit approval.
((e))Screening shall comply with Chapter 634 Screeningrequirements.
(6) Drainage. Every manufactured home park shall be located on a well-drained area
and the premises shall be properly graded to prevent the accumulation of storm
or other water.
(7) Utility Requirements. Water facilities, sewage disposal, and street lighting shall be
installed and maintained by the owner of the manufactured home park and shall
be constructed in accordance with State laws, the recommendations of the State,
and the requirements of the City Code.
(8) Fire Hydrant Requirements. Fire hydrants shall be placed throughout the
manufactured home park in such a way as to satisfy the City that adequate fire
protection is achieved.
(9) Storage Requirements
((a)) Outdoor storage is prohibited on individual manufactured home lots,
except for split and neatly stacked firewood in the side or rear yard and
private outdoor recreational equipment currently being used or intended for
use.
((b)) A bulk storage and parking area shall be provided on site by the park
owner for boats, campers, travel trailers, recreational vehicles, snowmobiles,
motorcycles and other seasonally used recreation equipment.
(10) Recreation Requirements. A dedicated recreation area for the
manufactured home park shall include improvements geared towards the
anticipated demographics of the community. As part of the conditional use
permit review, the applicant must demonstrate that a reasonable nexus exists
between the number of manufactured homes being served to the level of
investment being made to the recreation area.
(f) Requirements for Manufactured Home Parks established prior to the adoption of this
Code Section 611.05.
(1) Building Permits
((a)) The installation of any new manufactured homes within an existing
manufactured home park shall require obtaining a building permit for each
home in order to ensure building code requirements and development
standards are met.
((b)) A certification that the individual unit meets all requirements of the State
of Minnesota shall also be submitted to the City.
(2) Development Standards
((a)) All manufactured homes must meet the minimum setbacks set forth in
Minnesota Statutes Section 327.20, subdivision 1 (3):
Residential Zoning Districts 11 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016712.v1
61
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
((1)) 10 feet from any public right-of-way or alley;
((2)) 10 feet from all adjacent residentially zoned property having a
different zoning classification than the manufactured home park;
((3)) 5 feet from all adjacent properties zoned commercial or industrial;
((4)) 3 feet from all side property lines;
((5)) 10 feet between the long sides of adjacent manufactured homes
and structures physically attached to the manufactured home (excluding
open porches and carports); and
((6)) 3 feet between manufactured homes parked end to end.
((b))All manufactured homes must meet the minimum lot width requirements
set forth in Minnesota Statutes Section 327.20:
((1)) Each individual manufactured home site shall abut or face a
driveway or clear unoccupied space of not less than 16 feet in width. The
space shall have unobstructed access to a public highway, street or alley.
((c)) Storage Requirements
((1)) Outdoor storage is prohibited on individual manufactured home
lots, except for split and neatly stacked firewood in the side or rear yard
and private outdoor recreational equipment currently being used or
intended for use.
((2)) A bulk storage and parking area shall be provided on site by the
park owner for boats, campers, travel trailers, recreational vehicles,
snowmobiles, motorcycles and other seasonally used recreation
equipment.
(g) Occupancy of Homes. No manufactured home may be inhabited by a greater
number of occupants than for which it was designed.
(h) Parking Prohibited. Except as provided in this Chapter, it shall be unlawful for any
person to park a manufactured home or recreational vehicle on a street, alley,
highway or other public place.
Residential Zoning Districts 12 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1016712.v1
62
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 612Non-Residential Zoning Districts
612.01 APPLICATION
1. The restrictions, regulations, standards, and guidelines in this Chapter for land use and
development shall apply to the following zoning districts within the City:
B-1Local Business District
B-2Regional Business District
M-1 Light Industrial District
M-2 Heavy Industrial District
M-3Heavy Industrial, Outdoor Intensive District
M-O Heavy Industrial, Onaway Addition District
PPublic Facilities District
612.02 DISTRICT INTENTS
1. The following statements specify the intents of the non-residential zoning districts
established to regulate areas of the city considered appropriate for non-residential uses:
(a) B-1 Local Business. The purpose of the B-1 District is to provide areas for smaller-
scale commercial uses that are primarily intended to serve the local community.
(b) B-2 Regional Business. The purpose of the B-2 District is to accommodate larger-
scale commercial uses that benefit from access to and visibility from major roadways
and which are intended to serve a broader regional market area.
(c) M-1 Light Industrial. The purpose of the M-1 District is to provide areas for light
industrial uses, such as manufacturing and warehousing, provided that the industrial
activities are conducted entirely within buildings and the byproducts of such
activities, such as noise, odors, smoke and storage are confined entirely within
buildings. Uses allowed in the M-1 District ordinarily do not have nuisance impacts
on surrounding properties.
(d) M-2 Heavy Industrial. The purpose of the M-2 District is to provide areas for heavy
industrial uses, such as manufacturing, assembly, warehousing and distribution,
which generally require larger land areas or where the byproducts of such activities,
including noise, odors, smoke and storage may be noticeable on surrounding
properties. The uses within the M-2 District may require a small amount of exterior
operation or storage of equipment and materials.
(e) M-3 Heavy Industrial, Outdoor Intensive. The purpose of the M-3 District is to
provide areas for heavy industrial with outdoor intensive uses, such as trucking
terminals and construction yards.
Non-Residential Zoning Districts 1 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017105.v1
63
Jufn!3/
(f) M-O Heavy Industrial, Onaway Addition. The purpose of the M-O District is to:
(1) Change the present “legal, nonconforming use” status of the industrial buildings
on lots below 1.5 acres (65,340 square feet) to a "conforming use” status.
(2) Establish appropriate performance standards to address the existing conditions
of the neighborhood, while promoting development which does not create
adverse impacts to the health, safety and welfare of the general area.
(3) Encourage additional expansion, investment and industrial development in the
Onaway Addition.
(4) Establish performance standards to create attractive front yards and entrances to
industrial properties, and to appropriately screen outdoor storage and loading
activities.
(g) P Public Facilities. The purpose of the P District is to provide areas for a variety of
uses owned or managed by the City or another public entity which offer important
services used by the community, including governmental, educational, social service
and cultural.
612.03 USES
1. Table XXX Principal Uses and Table XXX Accessory Uses list land uses and indicate
whether they are permitted, permitted with standards (reference Chapters 620 and 621
for Principal and Accessory Use Specific Standards), conditional, or prohibited in each
zoning district. The following definitions shall be referenced when using Tables XXX and
XXX.
(a) Permitted Use – a “P” in a cell of the use tables indicates that the land use is allowed
by right in the zoning district.
(b) Permitted with Standards Use – a “PS” in a cell of the use tables indicates that the
land use is allowed in the zoning district as long as it meets the certain use-specific
standards as described in Chapters 620 and 621.
onditional Use – a “C” in a cell of the use tables indicates that the land use is
(c) C
allowed in the zoning district only upon approval of a conditional use permit as
described in Chapter 650 Procedures and compliance with any applicable use-
specific standards identified in Chapters 620 and 621.
(d) Interim Use – an “I” in a cell of the use tables indicates that the land use is allowed in
the zoning district only upon approval of an interim use permit as described in
Chapter 650 Procedures and in compliance with any applicable use-specific
standards identified in Chapters 620 and 621.
(e) Prohibited Use – a blank cell in the use tables indicates that the land use is prohibited
in that zoning district.
2. In the event a proposed use is not listed in the use tables, the Community Development
Director shall make a determination if the use is consistent by type, intensity, physical
characteristics, style, size and purpose with any use listed in Tables XXX and XXX.
Non-Residential Zoning Districts 2 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017105.v1
64
Jufn!3/
(a) If the proposed use found to be consistent with another listed use, the proposed use
shall be treated the same as the similar one identified by the Community
Development Director.
(f) If the proposed use is not found to be consistent with any listed use, the Council,
Planning Commission or property owner may request an amendment to this Chapter
to provide guidance for the proposed use.
Table XXX Principal Uses
Commercial Industrial Public
Use
Standards
M-O
Principal Use
B-1 B-2 M-1 M-2 M-3 P
Reference
(S-3)
Type
Residential
Group Living
Care facilityPS PS See Chapter
620
Continuum of
C C
care facility
Lodging
Hotel or motel PS See Chapter
620
Community Services
Clinic P P
Daycare centerPS PS See Chapter
620
Funeral home PS PS See Chapter
620
Hospital P P
Museum/art P P P
gallery
Place of PS PS See Chapter
assembly 620
Public use P P P
Sacred PS PS See Chapter
community 620
School, P
college/vocatio
nal/business
Public school, P P P
elementary,
middle, or
secondary
Private school, P P
elementary,
middle, or
secondary
Non-Residential Zoning Districts 3 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017105.v1
65
Jufn!3/
Commercial Industrial Public
Use
M-O Standards
Principal Use
B-1 B-2 M-1 M-2 M-3 P
Reference
(S-3)
Type
Commercial
Mixed use PS PS PS PS See Chapter
building620
Cannabis The components of the business must meet the individual district See Chapter
combination requirements for the aspect of the business listed in the use table. E.g. 620
business Cultivation, Manufacturing, Retail, Testing and Transportation.
Food or Beverage Services
Brewpub
P P
Liquor store P P P
RestaurantP P
Retail Sales or Service
Animal C C C C See Chapter
boarding, 620
shelter, or
daycare center
Animal PS PS PS PS See Chapter
veterinary clinic 620
or hospital
Automotive PS PS PS See Chapter
fuel station 620
Automotive C C C See Chapter
repair, major 620
Automotive CC C C C See Chapter
repair, minor620
Cannabis retail PS PS See Chapter
business 620
Car wash CC C C See Chapter
620
Commercial P
center, large
Commercial P P
center, small
Garden PS See Chapter
center/nursery 620
Motor vehicle CC See Chapter
sales or rental620
Off-site service P P P P P P
business
Outdoor sales CC
Pawn shop PS PS See Chapter
620
Large P
standalone
Non-Residential Zoning Districts 4 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017105.v1
66
Jufn!3/
Commercial Industrial Public
Use
M-O Standards
Principal Use
B-1 B-2 M-1 M-2 M-3 P
Reference
(S-3)
Type
store, retail or
service
Small P P
standalone
store, retail or
service
Business & Technical Services
Financial P P
institution
LaboratoryPPPP
OfficeP P P P P
Industrial
Automobile C C CC See Chapter
recycling center 620
Brewery, PS PS PS PS C See Chapter
winery, or 620
distillery
Cannabis C C C
cultivation
business
Cannabis or C C C See Chapter
hemp 620
manufacturing
Cannabis C C See Chapter
processing or 620
extraction
Construction P
contractor yard
Makerspace or P P P P P P
studio
Manufacturing, P P P
heavy
Manufacturing, P P P
light
Mining, sand, I
stone, and
gravel
extraction
Recycling, C C CC
scrap, or
salvage yard
Storage facility, C PS PS See Chapter
personal620
Non-Residential Zoning Districts 5 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017105.v1
67
Jufn!3/
Commercial Industrial Public
Use
M-O Standards
Principal Use
B-1 B-2 M-1 M-2 M-3 P
Reference
(S-3)
Type
Towing / CCC
impound
establishment
Warehouse and PS PSPS PS See Chapter
distribution 620
facility
Wholesale PPPP
establishment
Arts, Entertainment, or Recreation
Commercial P P C C CC
recreation,
indoor
Commercial CC
recreation,
outdoor
Recreational P P P
facility, public
Adult PS C C C See Chapter
entertainment 620
establishment
Transportation and Utilities
Cannabis C C C See Chapter
transportation 620
or delivery
Parking lot I I II I I
Transportation C C P
garage
Trucking PS See Chapter
terminal 620
Utilities P P P P P P P
(transformers,
stations, etc.)
Telecommunica C C CPSee Chapter
tionstower 620
Table XXX Accessory Uses
Commercial Industrial Public Use
Standards
Accessory Use B-1 B-2M-1 M-2M-3M-O P
Reference
(S-3)
Accessory retail or servicePS PSPSPS PSSee Chapter
621
Non-Residential Zoning Districts 6 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017105.v1
68
Jufn!3/
Commercial Industrial Public Use
Standards
Accessory Use B-1 B-2M-1 M-2M-3M-O P
Reference
(S-3)
Accessory structure PSPS PS PSPSPS See Chapter
621
See Chapter
Automotive repair PSPS
621
Car wash CCC C See Chapter
621
Construction-related temporary usePSPSPSPSPSPSPSSee Chapter
621
Daycare centerPSPS PS PSPSSee Chapter
621
Drive-through establishment PSPS See Chapter
621
EV chargingPSPS PS PSPSPS PSSee Chapter
621
Farmers market PSPS PS PSPSPS PSSee Chapter
621
Keeping of bees PSPS PS PSPSPS PSSee Chapter
621
LaboratoryP P PP P P P
Mobile food unit PSPS PS PSPSPS PSSee Chapter
621
Motor vehicle fuel & oil sales P P
On-sale liquor P P PP P
Outdoor dining PSPS C C C C P See Chapter
621
Outdoor displayPSPS See Chapter
621
Outdoor sales PSPS See Chapter
621
Outdoor storage C C PSC See Chapter
621
Railroad use P P P
Sacred community PSPS See Chapter
621
Solar energy system PSPS PS PSPSPS PSSee Chapter
621
Non-Residential Zoning Districts 7 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017105.v1
69
Jufn!3/
Commercial Industrial Public Use
Standards
Accessory Use B-1 B-2M-1 M-2M-3M-O P
Reference
(S-3)
Taproom P P PP P
Utilities (transformers, stations, etc.) P P PP P P P
Wind energy conversion system, CCC C C C C See Chapter
small (WECS) 621
Wireless facility PSPS PS PSPSPS PSSee Chapter
621
612.04 LOT AND SITE DIMENSIONS
1. All uses in Tables XXX and XXX shall comply with the lot and site dimensional
requirements set forth in the following tables and all other applicable regulations set
forth in this Chapter.
2. All lot and site dimension standards listed in this Section are subject to the standards
and exemptions listed in Chapter 610 Intro to Zoning Districts.
3. Table XXX establishes the minimum lot area and lot width requirements for the B-1, B-2,
M-1, M-2, M-3, M-O, and P zoning districts.
Table XXX Lot Dimensions
Zoning District Use Minimum Lot Minimum Lot
Area (sq. ft.) Width (ft.)
B-1 All uses 20,000 N/A
B-2 All uses 35,000 N/A
M-1All uses 32,670 100
M-2All uses 43,560 150
M-3All uses65,340150
M-O (S-3) All uses 10,000 80
P All uses N/AN/A
4. Table XXX establishes the minimum site dimension standards for the B-1, B-2, M-1, M-2,
M-3, M-O, and P zoning districts.
Table XXX Site Dimensions
Use
Principal Building Setbacks (ft.)
Zoning Max. Bldg Max. Bldg
Types
District Front Side Rear CornerCoverage Height (ft.)
1, 41
B-1 All uses3515 2535 50% 45
Non-Residential Zoning Districts 8 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017105.v1
70
Jufn!3/
Use
Principal Building Setbacks (ft.)
Zoning Max. Bldg Max. Bldg
Types
District Front Side Rear CornerCoverage Height (ft.)
223
B-2 All uses3515 4035 50% 65
2
M-1 All uses3515 25ft. if 35ft. tall or less; 35 50% 65
2
40ft. if over 35ft. tall
2
M-2All uses352025ft.if 35ft.tall or less;3550%65
2
40ft.if over 35ft.tall
2
M-3 All uses3520 25ft. if 35ft. tall or less; 35 50% 65
2
40ft. if over 35ft. tall
4
M-O (S-3)All uses35552550%45
PAll usesN/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A
1
30ft. setback from adjacent residential districts
2
50ft. setback from adjacent residential districts
3
Structures exceeding 65ft. (6 stories) buildings are allowed in B-2 with CUP
4
0ft. side setback is allowed where a common wall meeting the requirements of the Building Code is
provided between two buildings.
612.05 DISTRICT STANDARDS
1. M-1, M-2, M-3, and M-O Districts
(a) The City shall require a Conditional Use Permit for any outdoor storage of materials,
motor vehicles and equipment in compliance with Section 621.14.
(b) Whenever any industrial district is adjacent to or adjoins any other district, permitted
buildings and uses, except automobile parking and loading spaces, driveways,
essential services, walks and planting spaces shall not be:
(1) Closer to a street right-of-way line, abutting a residential district, than 50 feet.
(2) Closer to the alley right-of-way line than 40 feet (25 feet for M-O).
2. P Public Facilities District
(a) The P District includes such land areas, waterways and water areas which are owned,
controlled, regulated, used or proposed to be used by the City of Fridley or other
governmental body.
(b) Land within the P District is automatically designated at the time of land acquisition
for the principal uses set forth in Section 205.12.2.
Non-Residential Zoning Districts 9 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017105.v1
71
Jufn!3/
(c) Upon removal of public use, land within the P District automatically reverts back to
the original zoning that was on the property prior to the acquisition for such use.
(d) All lot requirements and setbacks for uses in this District shall be comparable to
other similar uses that are allowed in other districts.
(e) Building Requirements
(1) All building requirements for uses in this District shall be comparable to other
similar uses that are allowed in other districts.
Non-Residential Zoning Districts 10 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017105.v1
72
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 613Special Zoning Districts
613.01 S-2 REDEVELOPMENT DISTRICT REGULATIONS
1. Purpose. The purpose of this special zoning district is to:
(a) Allow for mixed use and planned unit developments within special redevelopment
districts established under Chapter 462 of Minnesota Statutes for the health, safety
and general welfare of the City.
(b) Allow for the maximum flexibility in the promotion of difficult redevelopment
projects.
(c) Allow for development by a plan which is acceptable to, and in the best interest of,
the City and the overall district and development plan.
2. Procedure for Establishment of a Special Redevelopment District
(a) A special redevelopment district, when designated, shall be classified by numerical
order as it is established.
(b) The procedure for the establishment of a special redevelopment district shall follow
the amendment and approval process as laid out in Section 650.03, and shall clearly
lay out the purpose for the plan, amendment and the district boundaries.
3. Uses Permitted
(a) Permitted uses in S-2 redevelopment districts are:
(1) A mix of uses in a building, including residential and commercial.
(2) Those uses which are acceptable to the overall redevelopment plan and specific
development plans as approved by the City. Upon approval of the specific
development plans, the City shall determine the specific uses that are permitted
within the development.
4. Uses Allowed After Plan Development
(a) Uses allowed in each individual building after construction will be the same as or
similar to those uses approved in Section 205.22.2. above.
5. Uses Excluded
(a) Only uses specifically identified in the redevelopment plan and approved by the City
are allowed.
6. Performance Standards
(a) All performance standards for uses in this district shall be comparable to other similar
uses that are allowed in other districts.
613.02 APPROVED S-2 DISTRICTS
1. The purpose of this Section is to identify all of the approved S-2 districts developed
within the City of Fridley.
Special Zoning Districts 1 4/10/2025
73
Jufn!3/
2. All redevelopment plans and submittal materials for each S-2 district shall be filed within
the City’s official records repository.
3. The S-2 Districts approved by the City are listed below in chronological order. The list of
S-2 Districts shall be updated as new S-2 Districts are approved.
(a) Southeast quadrant of Mississippi Street and University Avenue – 6341, 6401, 6431,
and 6499 University Ave: adopted May 17, 1982
(1) 6341 University Ave: amended November 3, 2003 and September 9, 2013
(2) 6431 University Ave: amended January 7, 2019 and readdressed to 6455
University Ave.
(3) 6499 University Ave: Plan approved 1982; Plan amended July 25, 2005
(b) Medtronic – 710 Medtronic Parkway: adopted August 18, 1986’
(c) Rottlund Company / Christenson Crossing – Southeast quadrant of Mississippi &
University; adopted April 22, 1996
thth
Place; 348 57
(d) Gateway East Townhomes – 5807, 5755 University Ave; 353, 339 57
Ave: adopted March 26, 2001
(e) Columbia Arena - 7011 University Ave: adopted May 12, 2009
th
(f) Triland-Cub site – 250 57Avenue: adopted March 29, 2010 as PUD; rezoned to S-2
on \[effective date of zoning recodification\]
(g) Walgreens – 6525 University Ave: adopted June 18, 1990, amended November 24,
1997
(h) Southwest quadrant of Mississippi and Central / 1282 Mississippi; 6490, 6400, 6352,
6300 Central: adopted January 5, 2004
(i) Southeast quadrant of Mississippi and Central / 1314, 1340 Mississippi; 6421 Central:
adopted July 11, 2005
(j) Gateway Northeast / Cielo – 5831-6071 University Ave: adopted November 26, 2012
(k) Northern Stacks/Paul Hyde – 4800 East River Road: adopted October 30, 2013
(l) Locke Point Villas / Pulte Homes – Adopted May 8, 2018
(m) Fridley Station Village (Sherman) – 6050 Main Street: adopted November 7, 2018
(n) Holly Center / Axle Apartments—6530 University Ave: Adopted September 23, 2020
(o) Moon Plaza / Callisto Commons—6257 University Ave: adopted January 23, 2023
Special Zoning Districts 2 4/10/2025
74
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 614Overlay Zoning Districts
614.01 INTRODUCTORY PROVISIONS
1. The restrictions, regulations, standards and guidelines in this Chapter are created to
apply to all land within the City, subject to the land use and development provisions
contained in each respective chapter applying to the following zoning districts within the
City. Hereafter, these districts may be collectively referred to as “Overlay Districts.” They
are as follows:
O-1Floodplain Management Overlay District
O-2Critical Area District
O-3Telecommunications Towers and Wireless Facilities District
O-4Pre-1955 Residential Lots
O-5Shoreland Overlay District
O-6Transit Oriented Development
614.02 O-1 FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT OVERLAY DISTRICT
Overlay Zoning Districts 1 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
75
Jufn!3/
Section 614.02 O-1 Floodplain Management Overlay District
614.02.01Statutory Authorization
1. Statutory Authorization. This floodplain ordinance is adopted pursuant to the authorization and
policies contained in Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 103F; Minnesota Rules, parts 6120.5000 – 6120.6200; the
rules and regulations of the National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) in 44 CFR § 59 to 78; and the
planning and zoning enabling legislation in Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 462.
2. Purpose
(a) This ordinance regulates development in the flood hazard areas of the City of Fridley. These
flood hazard areas are subject to periodic inundation, which may result in loss of life and property,
health and safety hazards, disruption of commerce and governmental services, extraordinary public
expenditures for flood protection and relief, and impairment of the tax base. It is the purpose of this
ordinance to promote the public health, safety, and general welfare by minimizing these losses and
disruptions.
(b) This ordinance is adopted in the public interest to promote sound land use practices, and
floodplains are a land resource to be developed in a manner which will result in minimum loss of life
and threat to health, and reduction of private and public economic loss caused by flooding.
(c) This ordinance is adopted to maintain eligibility in the National Flood Insurance Program.
(d) This ordinance is also intended to preserve the natural characteristics and functions of
watercourses and floodplains in order to moderate flood and stormwater impacts, improve water
quality, reduce soil erosion, protect aquatic and riparian habitat, provide recreational opportunities,
provide aesthetic benefits and enhance community and economic development.
3. Abrogation and Greater Restrictions. It is not intended by this ordinance to repeal, abrogate, or
impair any existing easements, covenants, or other private agreements. The standards in this ordinance
take precedence over any less restrictive, conflicting local laws, ordinances, or codes. All other ordinances
inconsistent with this ordinance are hereby repealed to the extent of the inconsistency only.
4. Warning and Disclaimer of Liability. This ordinance does not imply that areas outside the floodplain
districts or land uses permitted within such districts will be free from flooding or flood damages. Not all
flood risk is mapped. Larger floods do occur and the flood height may be increased by man-made or
natural causes, such as ice jams or bridge openings restricted by debris. This ordinance does not create
liability on the part of the City of Fridley or its officers or employees for any flood damages that result
from reliance on this ordinance or any administrative decision lawfully made hereunder.
5. Severability. If any section, clause, provision, or portion of this ordinance is adjudged unconstitutional
or invalid by a court of law, the remainder of this ordinance shall not be affected and shall remain in full
force.
614.02.02 Definitions
Accessory Structure. A structure, as defined in this ordinance, that is on the same parcel of property as,
and is incidental to, the principal structure or use; an accessory structure specifically excludes structures
used for human habitation.
76
Base Flood. The flood having a one-percent chance of being equaled or exceeded in any given year. “Base
Jufn!3/
flood” is synonymous with the term “regional flood” used in Minnesota Rules, part 6120.5000.
Base Flood Elevation (BFE). The elevation of the base flood, regional flood, or one-percent annual chance
flood. The term “base flood elevation” is used in the flood insurance study.
Basement. Any area of a structure, including crawl spaces, having its floor subgrade (below ground level)
on all sides, regardless of the depth of excavation below ground level.
Building. See Structure.
Channel. A natural or artificial depression of perceptible extent, with definite bed and banks to confine
and conduct flowing water either continuously or periodically.
Conditional Use. A land use or development that would not be appropriate generally, but may be allowed
with appropriate restrictions upon a finding that certain conditions as detailed in the zoning ordinance
exist, the use or development conforms to the comprehensive land use plan of the community, and the
use is compatible with the existing neighborhood.
Critical Facilities. Buildings and structures that contain essential facilities and services necessary for
emergency response and recovery, or that pose a substantial risk to the public in the event of failure,
disruption of function, or damage by flooding. Specifically, this includes facilities identified as Flood Design
Class 4 in ASCE 24-14, Flood Resistant Design and Construction, as amended. Examples include health care
facilities, facilities required for emergency response, power generating stations, communications towers, or
electrical substations.
Development. Any man-made change to improved or unimproved real estate, including, but not limited
to buildings or other structures, mining, dredging, filling, grading, paving, excavation or drilling operations,
or storage of equipment or materials.
Equal Degree of Encroachment. A method of determining the location of floodway boundaries so that
floodplain lands on both sides of a stream are capable of conveying a proportionate share of flood flows.
FEMA. Federal Emergency Management Agency.
Flood. A temporary rise in the stream flow or water surface elevation from any source that results in the
inundation of normally dry land areas.
Flood Fringe. The portion of the one-percent annual chance floodplain located outside of the floodway.
Flood Insurance Rate Map (FIRM). An official map on which the Federal Insurance Administrator has
delineated both the special flood hazard areas and the risk premium zones applicable to the community. A
FIRM that has been made available digitally is called a Digital Flood Insurance Rate Map (DFIRM).
Flood Insurance Study (FIS). The study referenced in Section 3.2, which is an examination, evaluation and
determination of flood hazards, and if appropriate, corresponding surface elevations, or an examination,
evaluation, and determination of mudslide (i.e. mudflow) and/or flood-related erosion hazards.
Floodplain. The beds, channel and the areas adjoining a wetland, lake or watercourse, or other source
which have been or hereafter may be inundated by the base flood.
Floodproofing. A combination of structural and non-structural additions, changes, or adjustments to
properties and structures subject to flooding, primarily for the reduction or elimination of flood damages.
77
Floodway. The bed of a wetland or lake and the channel of a watercourse and those portions of the
Jufn!3/
adjoining floodplain which must be reserved to carry or store the base flood discharge without
cumulatively increasing the water surface elevation more than one-half foot.
General Floodplain. Those floodplains designated on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps referenced in Section
3.2, but that do not have a delineated floodway.
Light Duty Truck. Any motor vehicle that has all three of the following:
(a) 8,500 pounds Gross Vehicle Weight Rating or less;
(b) vehicle curb weight of 6,000 pounds or less; and
(c) basic vehicle frontal area less than 45 square feet.
Lowest Floor. The lowest floor of the lowest enclosed area (including basement). An unfinished or flood
resistant enclosure, used solely for parking of vehicles, building access, or storage in an area other than a
basement area, is not considered a building’s lowest floor; provided, that such enclosure is not built so as
to render the structure in violation of the applicable non-elevation design requirements of 44 CFR § 60.3.
Manufactured Home. A structure, transportable in one or more sections, which is built on a permanent
chassis and is designed for use with or without a permanent foundation when attached to the required
utilities. The term “manufactured home” does not include the term “recreational vehicle.”
New Construction. Structures for which the start of construction commenced on or after the effective date
of an adopted floodplain management regulation, and includes any subsequent improvements to such
structures.
Principal Structure. The main building or other structure on a lot that is utilized for the property’s principal
use.
Reach. A hydraulic engineering term to describe a longitudinal segment of a stream or river influenced by
a natural or man-made obstruction. In an urban area, the segment of a stream or river between two
consecutive bridge crossings would most typically constitute a reach.
Recreational Vehicle. A vehicle that is built on a single chassis, is 400 square feet or less when measured at
the largest horizontal projection, is designed to be self-propelled or permanently towable by a light duty
truck, and is designed primarily not for use as a permanent dwelling but as temporary living quarters for
recreational, camping, travel, or seasonal use. Those vehicles not meeting this definition shall be
considered a structure for the purposes of this ordinance. For the purposes of this ordinance, the term
recreational vehicle is synonymous with the term “travel trailer/travel vehicle.”
Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation (RFPE). An elevation that is two feet above the elevation of the base
flood.
Special flood hazard area (SFHA). An area having special flood, mudslide (i.e., mudflow), or flood-related
erosion hazards, and shown on an FHBM or FIRM as Zone A, AO, A1-30, AE, AR, AR/A1-30, AR/AE, AR/AO,
AR/AH, AR/A, A99, AH, VO, V1-30, VE, V, M, or E.
Stage Increase. Any increase in the water surface elevation during the one-percent annual chance flood
caused by encroachments on the floodplain.
Start of Construction. Includes substantial improvement, and means the date the permit was issued,
provided the actual start of construction, repair, reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition placement, or other
improvement was within 180 days of the permit date. The actual start means either the first placement of
78
permanent construction of a structure on a site, such as the pouring of slab or footings, the installation of
Jufn!3/
piles, the construction of columns, or any work beyond the stage of excavation; or the placement of a
manufactured home on a foundation. Permanent construction does not include land preparation, such as
clearing, grading and filling; nor does it include the installation of streets and/or walkways; nor does it
include excavation for a basement, footings, piers, foundations, or the erection of temporary forms; nor
does it include the installation on the property of accessory buildings, such as garages or sheds not
occupied as dwelling units or not part of the main structure. For a substantial improvement, the actual
start of construction means the first alteration of any wall, ceiling, floor, or other structural part of a
building, whether or not that alteration affects the external dimensions of the building.
Structure. A roofed building, including a gas or liquid storage tank, that is principally above ground, as
well as a manufactured home. Recreational vehicles not considered travel ready, as detailed in Section 10,
shall also be considered a structure for the purposes of this ordinance.
Subdivision. Land that has been divided for the purpose of sale, rent, or lease, including planned unit
developments.
Substantial Damage. Damage of any origin sustained by a structure where the cost of restoring the
structure to its before damaged condition would equal or exceed 50 percent of the market value of the
structure before the damage occurred.
Substantial Improvement. Within any 365-day period, any reconstruction, rehabilitation, addition, or other
improvement of a structure, the cost of which equals or exceeds 50 percent of the market value of the
structure before the “start of construction” of the improvement. This term includes structures that have
incurred “substantial damage,” regardless of the actual repair work performed. The term does not,
however, include either:
(a) Any project for improvement of a structure to correct existing violations of state or local
health, sanitary, or safety code specifications which have been identified by the local code
enforcement official and which are the minimum necessary to assure safe living conditions; or
(b) Any alteration of a “historic structure,” provided that the alteration will not preclude the
structure’s continued designation as a “historic structure.” For the purpose of this ordinance, “historic
structure” is defined in 44 CFR § 59.1.
Variance. “Variance” means the same as that defined in 44 CFR § 59.1 and Minnesota Statutes, Section
462.357, Subd. 6(2).
Violation. “Violation” means the failure of a structure or other development to be fully compliant with the
community's flood plain management regulations. A structure or other development without the elevation
certificate, other certifications, or other evidence of compliance required in this ordinance is presumed to
be in violation of until such time as that documentation is provided.
Watercourse. A channel in which a flow of water occurs either continuously or intermittently in a definitive
direction. The term applies to either natural or artificially constructed channels.
614.02.03 Jurisdiction and Districts
1. Lands to Which Ordinance Applies. This ordinance applies to all lands within the jurisdiction of the
City of Fridley within the boundaries of the Floodway, Flood Fringe and General Floodplain Districts.
79
(a)The Floodway, Flood Fringe or General Floodplain Districts are overlay districts. The standards
Jufn!3/
imposed in the overlay districtsare in addition to any other requirements. In case of a conflict, the
more restrictive standards will apply.
(b)Where a conflict exists between the floodplain limits illustrated on the official floodplain maps
and actual field conditions (as illustrated in Figure 1), the Base Flood Elevation (BFE) shall be the
governing factor in locating the outer boundaries of the one-percent annual chance floodplain.
Figure 1: The mapped floodplain may not always align with on-the-ground contour
elevations.
(c)Persons contesting the location of the district boundaries will be given a reasonable
opportunity to present their case to thePlanning Commission and to submit technical evidence.
2.Incorporation of Maps by Reference. The following maps together with all attached material are
hereby adopted by reference and declared to be a part of the official zoning map and this ordinance. The
attached material includes the Flood Insurance Study for Anoka County, Minnesota, and Incorporated
Areas, datedDecember 16, 2015,and the Flood Insurance Rate Map panels enumerated below, dated
December 16, 2015, all prepared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. These materials are on
file in thePlanning Division of the City Office.
27003C0381E27003C0392E
27003C0382E27003C0401E
27003C0383E27003C0403E
27003C0384E27003C0411E
27003C0391E
Approved Letters of Map Change (LOMC) existing at the adoption of this ordinanceare also herein
incorporated by reference.
3.Districts
(a)Floodway District. Those areas within ZoneAEdelineated within floodway areas as shown on
the Flood Insurance Rate Maps referenced in Section 3.2.
(b)Flood Fringe District. Those areas within ZoneAElocated outside of the delineated floodway,
as shownon the Flood Insurance Rate Maps referenced in Section 3.2.
(c)General Floodplain District. Those areas within ZoneAand AEthat do not have a floodway
delineated as shown on the Flood Insurance Rate Maps referenced in Section 3.2.
80
4. Annexations. The Flood Insurance Rate Map panels referenced in Section 3.2 may include floodplain
Jufn!3/
areas that lie outside of the corporate boundaries of the City of Fridley at the time of adoption of this
ordinance. If any of these floodplain land areas are annexed into the City of Fridley after the date of
adoption of this ordinance, the newly annexed floodplain lands will be subject to the provisions of this
ordinance immediately upon the date of annexation. Annexations into panels not referenced in Section
3.2 require ordinance amendment in accordance with Section 14.0.
5. Municipal Boundary Adjustments & Townships. The Flood Insurance Rate Map panels referenced in
Section 3.2 apply countywide. If at any point any lands come under the jurisdiction of another local
government, the following shall apply:
(a) City adjustments of corporate boundaries, including but not limited to annexations and
detachments, shall shift floodplain administrative authority of all affected lands immediately
upon the date of the boundary adjustment occurring. Cities retain jurisdiction for all
incorporated lands, and the County retains jurisdiction under this ordinance on all
unincorporated lands
614.02.4 Requirements For All Floodplain Districts
1. Permit Required. A permit must be obtained from the Community Development Director or their
designee to verify compliance with all applicable standards outlined in this ordinance prior to the
following uses or activities:
(a) The erection, addition, modification, rehabilitation, repair, or alteration of any building,
structure, or portion thereof. Normal maintenance requires a permit to determine if such work, either
separately or in conjunction with other planned work, constitutes a substantial improvement, as
specified in Section 12.2.
(b) The construction of a fence, pool, deck, or placement of anything that may cause a potential
obstruction.
(c) The change or expansion of a nonconforming use.
(d) The repair of a structure that has been damaged by flood, fire, tornado, or any other source.
(e) The placement of fill, excavation, utilities, or other service facilities.
(f) The storage of materials or equipment, in conformance with Section 4.2.B.
(g) Relocation or alteration of a watercourse (including stabilization projects or the construction
of new or replacement dams, culverts and bridges). A local permit is not required if a public waters
work permit has been obtained from the Department of Natural Resources, unless a significant area
above the ordinary high water level is also to be disturbed.
(h) Any other type of “development,” as defined in Section 2.0 of this ordinance.
2. Minimum Development Standards
(a) All development must:
(1) Be designed (or modified) and adequately anchored to prevent flotation, collapse, or lateral
movement resulting from hydrodynamic and hydrostatic loads, including the effects of buoyancy;
(2) Be constructed with materials and equipment resistant to flood damage;
(3) Be constructed by methods and practices that minimize flood damage;
81
(4) Be constructed with heating, ventilation, duct work, and air conditioning equipment and other
Jufn!3/
service facilities elevated at least up to the Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation (RFPE). Water,
sewage, electrical, and other utility lines below the RFPE shall be constructed so as to prevent
water from entering or accumulating within them during conditions of flooding;
(5) Be reasonably safe from flooding and consistent with the need to minimize flood damage;
(6) Be assured to provide adequate drainage to reduce exposure to flood hazards;
(7) Not be detrimental to uses in adjoining areas; and
(8) Not adversely affect the efficiency or restrict the flood carrying capacity of the channel and
adjoining floodplain of any tributary watercourse or drainage system.
(9) Ensure that any fill or other materials are protected from erosion, discharge, and sediment
entering surface waters by the use of vegetative cover or other methods as soon as possible.
(b) Materials that, in time of flooding, are buoyant, flammable, explosive, or could be injurious to
human, animal, or plant life shall be stored at or above the Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation
(RFPE), floodproofed, or protected by other measures as approved by the Community Development
Director or their designee. Storage of materials likely to cause pollution of the waters, such as sewage;
sand; rock; wrecked and discarded equipment; dredged spoil; municipal, agricultural or industrial
waste; and other wastes as further defined in Minnesota Statutes, Section 115.01, are prohibited
unless adequate safeguards approved by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency are provided. For
projects not requiring approvals by the Minnesota Pollution Control Agency, adequate safeguards
must be approved by the Community Development Director or their designee prior to issuance of a
permit.
(c) Critical facilities shall be located so that the lowest floor is not less than two feet above the
Base Flood Elevation (BFE), or the 0.2% annual chance flood elevation, whichever is higher.
614.02.05 Floodway District
1. Permitted Uses in Floodway. Development allowed in the floodway district is limited to that which
has low flood damage potential and will not obstruct flood flows, increase velocities, or increase the water
surface elevations of the one-percent annual chance flood. The following uses and activities may be
allowed with a permit, subject to the standards in Section 5.2:
(a) Agricultural uses, recreational uses, parking lots, loading areas, airport landing strips, water
control structures, navigational facilities, as well as public open space uses.
(b) Roads, driveways, railroads, trails, bridges, and culverts.
(c) Public utility facilities and water-oriented industries which must be in or adjacent to
watercourses.
(d) Grading, filling, land alterations, and shoreline stabilization projects.
(e) No structures, as defined in Section 2.0, are allowed in the Floodway District, except structures
accessory to the uses detailed in Sections 5.1.A and 5.3.
(f) Residential lawns, landscaping, parking, and play areas.
2. Standards for Permitted Uses in Floodway. In addition to the applicable standards detailed in Section
4.0:
82
(a) The applicant must demonstrate that the development will not result in any of the following
Jufn!3/
during the one-percent annual chance flood: cause a stage increase of 0.00 feet or greater, obstruct
flood flows, or increase velocities. This shall be demonstrated through hydrologic and hydraulic
analysis performed by a professional engineer, or using other standard engineering practices (e.g.
projects that restore the site to the previous cross-sectional area). This is commonly documented
through a “no-rise certification.”
(b) Any development that would result in a stage increases greater than 0.00 feet may only be
allowed with a permit if the applicant has applied for and received approval for a Conditional Letter of
Map Revision (CLOMR) in accordance with 44 CFR § 65.12. Map revisions must follow the procedures
in Sections 11 and 14.0.
(c) Any development resulting in decreases to the water surface elevation of the base flood
identified in the Flood Insurance Study requires a Letter of Map Revision (LOMR) following the
procedures in Sections 11 and 14.0.
(d) Any development in the beds of public waters that will change the course, current or cross
section is required to obtain a public waters work permit in accordance with Minnesota Statutes,
section 103G.245 or a utility crossing license in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, section 84.415,
from the Department of Natural Resources, or demonstrate that no permit is required, before
applying for a local permit.
(e) Any facility used by employees or the general public must be designed with a flood warning
system acceptable to the Community Development Director or their designee that provides adequate
time for evacuation, or be designed to ensure that within the area inundated during the base flood
event, the depth (in feet) multiplied by the velocity (in feet per second) is less than four.
(f) Fill and other land alteration activities must offer minimal obstruction to the flow of flood
waters.
3. Conditional Uses in Floodway. The following uses and activities may be permitted as conditional uses,
subject to the standards detailed in this Chapter:
(a) Commercial extractive uses, storage and stockpiling yards.
4. Standards for Conditional Uses in Floodway. In addition to the applicable standards detailed in this
Chapter.
(a) Extractive uses and storage of materials require the completion of a site development and
restoration plan, to be approved by the City of Fridley.
614.02.06 Flood Fringe District
1. Permitted Uses in Flood Fringe. Any uses or activities allowed in any applicable underlying zoning
districts may be allowed with a permit, subject to the standards set forth in this Chapter.
2. Standards for Permitted Uses in Flood Fringe. In addition to the applicable standards detailed in this
Chapter;
(a) Residential Structures.
(1) Elevation on Fill. Structures erected, constructed, reconstructed, altered, or moved on fill
within the Flood Fringe District shall be placed so that the lowest floor, as defined in Section 2.0
of this ordinance, is elevated at or above the Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation (RFPE). The
finished fill elevation shall be at or above the elevation associated with the base flood plus two
83
feet.Fill must extend at the same elevation at least 15 feet beyond the outside limits of the
Jufn!3/
structure. Elevations must be certified by a registered professional engineer, land surveyor or
other qualified person designated by theCommunity Development Directoror their designee.
Elevation methods alternative to these fill standards are subject to a Conditional Use Permit, as
provided below.
Figure 2: Overview of fill standards for residential structures.
(b)Nonresidential Structures. Nonresidential structures must meet one of the following
construction methods:
(1)Elevation on Fill. Structures may be elevated on fill, meeting the standards of this Chapter. Fill
for nonresidential structures is not required to be extended 15 feet beyond the outside limits of
the structure.
(2)Alternative Elevation Methods. Structures may beelevated using methods alternative to the fill
standardsin this Chapter. Such methods include the use of blocks, pilings (Figure 3), filled stem
walls (Figure 4), or internally-flooded enclosed areas (Figure 5) such as crawl spaces, attached
garages, or tuck under garages.
Figure 3:Blocks or pilings. Figure 4: Filled stem walls. Figure 5: Internally flooded enclosed area.
Designs accommodating for internally-flooded enclosed areas must be certified by a
registered professional engineer or architect, or meet or exceed the standards detailed in
FEMA Technical Bulletin 1, as amended, as well as the following standards:
((a)) The lowest floor, as defined in in this Chapter, shall be elevated at or above the
Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation (RFPE).
84
((b)) The floor of the enclosed area must be at or above the exterior grade on at least one
Jufn!3/
side of the structure.
((c)) To allow for the equalization of hydrostatic pressure, there shall be a minimum of two
openings below the base flood elevation on at least two sides of the structure. The bottom of
all openings shall be no higher than one foot above grade. The openings shall have a
minimum net area of not less than one square inch for every square foot of enclosed area
subject to flooding, have a net area of not less than one square inch for every square foot of
enclosed area subject to flooding, and shall allow automatic entry and exit of floodwaters
without human intervention.
((d)) Internally flooded enclosed areas shall only be used for the parking of vehicles,
building access, or storage. Bathrooms and toilet rooms shall not be allowed. Such areas shall
be subject to a deed-restricted non-conversion agreement as well as periodic inspections with
the issuance of any permit.
(3) Dry Floodproofing. Structures having watertight enclosed basements or spaces below
the Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation (RFPE) must meet the following standards:
((a)) Walls must be substantially impermeable to the passage of water, with structural
components having the capacity of resisting hydrostatic and hydrodynamic loads and effects
of buoyancy, at least up to the Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation (RFPE);
((b)) Must meet the standards of FEMA Technical Bulletin 3, as amended; and
((c)) A registered professional engineer or architect shall be required to certify that the
design and methods of construction meet the standards detailed in this Section.
(4)Accessory Structures. All accessory structures must meet the following standards:
((a)) Structures shall not be designed or used for human habitation.
((b)) Structures will have a low flood damage potential.
((c)) Structures shall constitute a minimal investment not to exceed 576 square feet in size,
one-story in height, and shall only be used for parking and storage, except as provided under
Section 6.2C.5. Structures not meeting the standards of Sections 6.2C.1-3 must be designed
and constructed in accordance with floodplain management requirements based on whether
the structure is residential or nonresidential. Residential structures must meet the
requirements of Section 6.2.A, and nonresidential structures must meet the requirements of
Section 6.2.B.
(5)Structures with two or more rigid walls, must meet one of the following construction methods:
((a)) Wet Floodproofing. Structures may be floodproofed in a way to accommodate internal
flooding. To allow for the equalization of hydrostatic pressure, there shall be a minimum of
two openings on at least two sides of the structure and the bottom of all openings shall be no
higher than one foot above grade. The openings shall have a minimum net area of not less
than one square inch for every square foot of enclosed area subject to flooding, and shall
allow automatic entry and exit of floodwaters without human intervention. Utilities must be
elevated above the RFPE and any utility lines below the RFPE shall be constructed so as to
prevent floodwaters from entering or accumulating within them. Portions of structures below
the RFPE must be constructed of flood damage-resistant materials. Wet floodproofed
structures must be anchored to resist flotation, collapse, and lateral movement.
85
((b)) Elevation on Fill. Structures may be elevated on fill, meeting the standards in Section
Jufn!3/
6.2.A.1 of this ordinance. Fill is not required to be extended 15 feet beyond the outside limits
of the structure.
((c)) Alternative Elevation Methods. Structures may have their lowest floor elevated above
the Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation (RFPE) through methods alternative to the fill
standards in Section 6.2.C.4.B, and must meet the standards in Section 6.2.B.2 of this
ordinance.
((d)) Dry Floodproofing. Structures may be dry-floodproofed, or watertight, meeting the
standards in Section 6.2.B.3 of this ordinance.
(6) Structures with fewer than two rigid walls, such as carports, gazebos, and picnic pavilions,
meeting the standards in Section 4.2 of this ordinance may be located at an elevation below the
Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation, exceed 576 square feet in size, and include uses as
provided under Section 6.1.
(d) All new principal structures must provide vehicular access no lower than two feet below the Base
Flood Elevation (BFE), unless a flood warning/emergency evacuation plan has been approved by the
City of Fridley.
(e) Accessory uses such as yards and parking lots may be at an elevation lower than the Regulatory
Flood Protection Elevation. However, any facilities used by employees or the general public must be
designed with a flood warning system acceptable to the Community Development Director or their
designee that provides adequate time for evacuation or be designed to ensure that within the area
inundated during the base flood event, the depth (in feet) multiplied by the velocity (in feet per
second) is less than four.
(f) Manufactured homes and recreational vehicles must meet the standards of Section 10 of this
ordinance.
3. Conditional Uses in Flood Fringe. The following uses and activities may be permitted as conditional
uses, subject to the standards in Sections 6.4:
(a) Alternative Elevation Methods – Residential Structures. Residential structures with their lowest
floor elevated above the Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation (RFPE) using methods alternative to
the fill requirements in Section 6.2.A.
(b) The cumulative placement of more than 1,000 cubic yards of fill when the fill is not being used to
elevate a structure in accordance with Section 6.2.A-C of this ordinance.
4. Standards for Conditional Uses in Flood Fringe. In addition to the applicable standards detailed in
Sections 4.0, 6.2 and 11.2:
(a) All residential structures with lowest floors elevated through alternative elevation methods
must meet the standards in Section 6.2.B.2 of this ordinance.
(b) The placement of more than 1,000 cubic yards of fill or other similar material on a parcel
(other than for the purpose of elevating a structure to the regulatory flood protection elevation) must
comply with an approved erosion/sedimentation control plan and:
(1) The plan must clearly specify methods to be used to stabilize the fill on site for a flood event
at a minimum of the regional (1% chance) flood event.
86
(2) The plan must be prepared and certified by a registered professional engineer or other
Jufn!3/
qualified individual acceptable to the City.
(3) The plan may incorporate alternative procedures for removal of the material from the
floodplain if adequate flood warning time exists.
614.02.7 General Floodplain District
1. Permitted Uses in General Floodplain District
(a) Until the floodway is delineated, allowable uses will be restricted to those listed in the
Floodway District, Section 5.0
(b) All other uses are subject to a floodway/flood fringe determination as provided in Section 7.4,
in addition to the standards provided in Sections 7.2 and 7.3. Permitted uses shall be determined as
follows:
(1) If the development is determined to be in the Floodway District, Section 5.0 applies.
(2) If the development is determined to be in the Flood Fringe District, Section 6.0 applies.
2. Determining Flood Elevations
(a) All development requires a determination of the Base Flood Elevation (BFE). Exceptions to this
requirement include projects that restore the site to the previous cross-sectional area, such as shore
stabilization or culvert replacement projects. Base Flood Elevations (BFE) may be found using best
available data from any Federal, State, or other source (including MNDNR’s Lake & Flood Elevations
Online (LFEO) Viewer).
3. Encroachment Analysis
(a) Encroachments due to development may not allow stage increases more than one-half (0.5)
foot at any point, unless through a map revision following the procedures in Sections 11.1.E and 14.0.
This evaluation must include the cumulative effects of previous encroachments, and must be
documented with hydrologic and hydraulic analysis performed by a professional engineer, or using
other standard engineering practices. A lesser water surface elevation increase than one-half (0.5) foot
is required if, due to the water surface level increase, increased flood damages would potentially
result.
(b) Alterations or changes that result in stage decreases are allowed and encouraged.
4. Standards for the Analysis of Floodway Boundaries
(a) Requirements for Detailed Studies. Any development, as requested by the, Community
Development Director or their designee shall be subject to a detailed study to determine the limits of
the Floodway District. This determination must be consistent with the minimum standards for
hydrologic and hydraulic mapping standards and techniques, as detailed in Minnesota Rules, part
6120.5600, Subp. 4 and FEMA Guidelines and Standards for Flood Risk Analysis and Mapping, as
revised. Additionally:
(1) A regulatory floodway necessary to carry the discharge of the one-percent annual chance
flood must be selected without increasing the water surface elevation more than one-half (0.5)
foot at any point. This determination should include the cumulative effects of previous
encroachments. A lesser water surface elevation increase than one-half (0.5) foot is required if,
due to the water surface level increase, increased flood damages would potentially result; and
87
(2) An equal degree of encroachment on both sides of the stream within the reach must be
Jufn!3/
assumed in computing floodway boundaries, unless topography, existing development patterns,
and comprehensive land use plans justify a modified approach, as approved by the Department
of Natural Resources.
(b) Other Acceptable Methods. For areas where a detailed study is not available or required:
(1) Development prohibited in floodways (e.g. most buildings) requires a floodway/flood fringe
determination to verify the development is within the flood fringe. This determination must be
done by a professional engineer or utilize other accepted engineering practices. The Department
of Natural Resources may also provide technical assistance and must approve any alternative
methods used to determine floodway boundaries.
(2) For areas where the floodway has not been determined in and along lakes, wetlands, and
other basins, the following methodology may be used as an alternative to 7.4.B.1 above, provided
these areas are not affected by velocities and the lot is able to accommodate a building site
above the Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation (RFPE):
((a)) All areas that are at or below the ordinary high water level, as defined in Minnesota
Statutes, section 103G.005, Subd. 14, will be considered floodway, and all areas below the Base
Flood Elevation (BFE) but above the ordinary high water level will be considered flood fringe,
provided that within 25 feet of the ordinary high water level, or within the Shore Impact Zone
as identified in the community’s Shoreland ordinance, whichever distance is greater, land
alterations shall be restricted to:
((1))The minimum required to accommodate beach areas, access areas, and accessory
structures as permitted, not to exceed a volume greater than 10 cubic yards; projects
involving volumes exceeding 10 cubic yards require floodway/flood fringe determination in
accordance with the procedures in Section 7.4.B.1; and
((2))The minimum required to accommodate shoreline stabilization projects to correct an
identified erosion problem as verified by a qualified resource agency or the Community
Development Director or their designee.
614.02.8 Subdivision Standards
1. Subdivisions. All subdivided land must meet the following requirements. Manufactured home parks
and recreational vehicle parks or campgrounds are considered subdivisions under this ordinance.
(a) All lots within floodplain districts must be suitable for a building site outside of the Floodway
District.
(b) Subdivision of lands within the floodplain districts may not be approved if the cost of
providing governmental services would impose an unreasonable economic burden on the City of
Fridley.
(c) All subdivisions must have vehicular access both to the subdivision and to the individual
building sites no lower than two feet below the Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation (RFPE), unless a
flood warning/emergency evacuation plan has been approved by the City of Fridley.
(d) The Floodway and Flood Fringe District boundaries, the Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation
(RFPE) and the required elevation of all access roads must be clearly identified on all required
subdivision drawings and platting documents.
88
614.02.9 Public and Private Utilities, Service Facilities. Roads, Bridges, and Railroads
Jufn!3/
1. Public Transportation Facilities. Railroad tracks, roads, and bridges must be elevated to the
Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation (RFPE) where such facilities are essential to the orderly functioning
of the area, or where failure or interruption would result in danger to public health or safety. Minor or
auxiliary roads or railroads may be constructed at a lower elevation where failure or interruption of
transportation services would not endanger the public health or safety. All public transportation facilities
should be designed to minimize increases in flood elevations.
2. Public Utilities. All utilities such as gas, electrical, sewer, and water supply systems to be located in the
floodplain must be elevated and/or floodproofed to the Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation (RFPE), be
located and constructed to minimize or eliminate flood damage, and be designed to eliminate
infiltration of flood waters into the systems and discharges from the systems into flood waters. All public
utilities should be designed to minimize increases in flood elevations. New solid waste management
facilities, as defined in Minnesota Rules, part 7035.0300, are prohibited in the one-percent annual chance
floodplain. Water supply systems are subject to the provisions in Minnesota Rules, part 4725.4350.
3. Private On-Site Water Supply, Individual Sewage Treatment Systems, and other Service Facilities.
Private facilities shall be subject to applicable provisions detailed in Section 9.2. In addition, new or
replacement on-site sewage treatment systems are to be located to avoid impairment to them or
contamination from them during times of flooding, shall not be located in a designated floodway, and
are subject to the provisions in Minnesota Rules, parts 7080.2270.
614.02.10 Manufactured Homes and Recreational Vehicles
1. Manufactured Homes. Manufactured homes and manufactured home parks are subject to applicable
standards for each floodplain district. In addition:
(a) New and replacement manufactured homes must be placed and elevated in compliance with
Section 6.0 of this ordinance and must be securely anchored to a system that resists flotation, collapse
and lateral movement. Methods of anchoring may include, but are not limited to, use of over-the-top
or frame ties to ground anchors.
(b) New manufactured home parks and expansions to existing manufactured home parks must
meet the appropriate standards for subdivisions in Section 8.0 of this ordinance.
2. Recreational Vehicles. New recreational vehicle parks or campgrounds and expansions to existing
recreational vehicle parks or campgrounds are prohibited in any floodplain district. Recreational vehicles
placed in existing recreational vehicle parks, campgrounds or lots of record in the floodplain must either:
(a) Meet the requirements for manufactured homes in Section 10.1, or
(b) Be travel ready, meeting the following criteria:
(1) The vehicle must be fully licensed.
(2) The vehicle must be ready for highway use, meaning on wheels or the internal jacking system,
attached to the site only by quick disconnect type utilities.
(3) No permanent structural type additions may be attached to the vehicle.
(4) Accessory structures may be permitted in the Flood Fringe District, provided they do not
hinder the removal of the vehicle should flooding occur, and meet the standards outlined in
Section 4.0 and Section 6.2.C.
614.02.11 Administration
89
1. Duties. The Community Development Director or their designee must administer and enforce this
Jufn!3/
ordinance.
(a) Permit Application Requirements. Permit applications must be submitted to the Community
Development Director or their designee. The permit application must include the following, as
applicable:
(1) A site plan showing all existing or proposed buildings, structures, service facilities, potential
obstructions, and pertinent design features having an influence on the permit.
(2)Location and detail of grading, fill, or storage of materials.
(3) Copies of any required local, state or federal permits or approvals.
(4) Other relevant information requested by the Community Development Director or their
designee as necessary to properly evaluate the permit application.
(b) Recordkeeping. The Community Development Director or their designee must maintain
applicable records in perpetuity documenting:
(1) All certifications for dry floodproofing and alternative elevation methods, where applicable.
(2) Analysis of no-rise in the Floodway District, as detailed in Section 5.2.A, and encroachment
analysis ensuring no more than one-half foot of rise in the General Floodplain District, as detailed
in Section 7.3.A.
(3) Final elevations, as applicable, detailing the elevation to which structures and improvements to
structures are constructed or floodproofed. Elevations shall be determined by an engineer,
architect, surveyor or other qualified individual, as approved by the Community Development
Director or their designee.
(4) Substantial damage and substantial improvement determinations, as detailed in Section
12.1.C, including the cost of improvements, repairs, and market value.
(5) All variance actions, including justification for their issuance, and must report such variances as
requested by the Federal Emergency Management Agency.
(c) Certificate of Zoning Compliance for a New, Altered, or Nonconforming Use. No building,
land or structure may be occupied or used in any manner until a certificate of zoning compliance has
been issued by the Community Development Director or their designee stating that the finished fill
and building floor elevations or other flood protection measures are in compliance with the
requirements of this ordinance.
(d) Notifications for Watercourse Alterations. Before authorizing any alteration or relocation of a
river or stream, the Community Development Director or their designee must notify adjacent
communities. If the applicant has applied for a permit to work in public waters in accordance with
Minnesota Statutes, Section 103G.245, this will suffice as adequate notice. A copy of the notification
must also be submitted to FEMA.
(e) Notification to FEMA When Physical Changes Increase or Decrease Base Flood Elevations.
Where physical changes affecting flooding conditions may increase or decrease the water surface
elevation of the base flood, the City of Fridley must notify FEMA of the changes in order to obtain a
Letter of Map Revision (LOMR), by submitting a copy of the relevant technical or scientific data as
soon as practicable, but no later than six months after the date such supporting information becomes
90
available. Within the General Floodplain District, a map revision is only required if development results
Jufn!3/
in stage increases greater than 0.5 feet.
2. Conditional Uses and Variances
(a) Process.
(1) An application for a conditional use permit will be processed and reviewed in accordance with
the provisions of this ordinance.
(2) An application for a variance to the provisions of this ordinance will be processed and
reviewed in accordance with Minnesota Statutes, section 394.27, Subd. 7 and this ordinance.
(b) Additional Variance Criteria. The following additional variance criteria must be satisfied:
(1) Variances must not be issued within any designated regulatory floodway if any increase in
flood levels during the base flood discharge would result.
(2) Variances from the provisions of this ordinance may only be issued by a community upon:
((a)) A showing of good and sufficient cause;
((b)) A determination that failure to grant the variance would result in exceptional hardship
to the applicant; and
((c)) A determination that the granting of a variance will not result in increased flood
heights, additional threats to public safety, extraordinary public expense, create nuisances,
cause fraud on or victimization of the public, or conflict with existing local laws or ordinances.
(3) Variances from the provisions in this ordinance may only be issued upon a determination that
the variance is the minimum necessary, considering the flood hazard, to afford relief.
(4) Variances must be consistent with the general purpose of these standards and the intent of
applicable provisions in state and federal law.
(5) Variances may be used to modify permissible methods of flood protection, but no variance
shall permit a lesser degree of flood protection than the Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation
(RFPE).
(6) The Community Development Director or their designee must notify the applicant for a
variance in writing that:
((a))The issuance of a variance to construct a structure below the base flood level will result in
increased premium rates for flood insurance up to amounts as high as $25 for $100 of
insurance coverage; and
((b)) Such construction below the base flood level increases risks to life and property.
Notification must be maintained with a record of all variance actions.
(c) Considerations for Approval. The City of Fridley must consider all relevant factors specified in
other sections of this ordinance in granting variances and conditional use permits, including the
following:
(1) The potential danger to life and property due to increased flood heights or velocities caused
by encroachments.
(2) The danger that materials may be swept onto other lands or downstream to the injury of
others.
91
(3) The safety of access to the property in times of flood for ordinary and emergency vehicles.
Jufn!3/
(4) The susceptibility of any proposed use and its contents to flood damage and the effect of
such damage on the individual owner;
(5) The importance of the services to be provided by the proposed use to the community;
(6) The requirements of the facility for a waterfront location;
(7) The availability of viable alternative locations for the proposed use that are not subject to
flooding;
(8) The compatibility of the proposed use with existing development and development
anticipated in the foreseeable future;
(9) The relationship of the proposed use to the Comprehensive Land Use Plan and flood plain
management program for the area;
(10) The expected heights, velocity, duration, rate of rise and sediment transport of the flood
waters expected at the site.
(d) Conditions of Approval. The City of Fridley may attach such conditions to the granting of
variances and conditional use permits as it deems necessary to fulfill the purposes of this ordinance.
Such conditions may include, but are not limited to, the following:
(1) Limitations on period of use, occupancy, and operation.
(2) Imposition of operational controls, sureties, and deed restrictions.
(3) The prevention of soil erosion or other possible pollution of public waters, both during and
after construction.
(4) Other conditions as deemed appropriate by the Community Development Director or their
designee.
3. Notifications to the Department of Natural Resources
(a) All notices of public hearings to consider variances or conditional uses under this ordinance
must be sent via electronic mail to the Department of Natural Resources respective area hydrologist
at least ten (10) days before the hearings. Notices of hearings to consider subdivisions/plats must
include copies of the subdivision/plat.
(b) A copy of all decisions granting variances and conditional uses under this ordinance must be
sent via electronic mail to the Department of Natural Resources respective area hydrologist within ten
(10) days of final action.
614.02.12 Nonconformities
1. Continuance of Nonconformities. A use, structure, or occupancy of land which was lawful before the
passage or amendment of this ordinance, but which is not in conformity with the provisions of this
ordinance, may be continued subject to the following conditions:
(a) Within the floodway and general floodplain districts (when a site has been determined to be
located in the floodway following the procedures in Section 7.3, or when the floodway has not been
delineated), any expansion or enlargement of uses or structures is prohibited.
(b) Within all districts, any addition, modification, rehabilitation, repair, or alteration shall be in
conformance with the provisions of this ordinance, shall not increase the flood damage potential or
92
increase the degree of obstruction to flood flows, and where applicable, must be protected to the
Jufn!3/
Regulatory Flood Protection Elevation (RFPE).
(c) If any nonconforming structure is determined to be substantially damaged or substantially
improved based on the procedures in Section 12.2, it may not be reconstructed except in conformity
with the provisions of this ordinance. Any structures located outside the one-percent annual chance
floodplain are exempt from this provision.
(d) If any nonconforming use, or any use of a nonconforming structure, is discontinued for more
than one year, any future use of the premises must conform to this ordinance.
2. Substantial Improvement and Substantial Damage Determinations. Prior to issuing any permits for
additions, modifications, rehabilitations, repairs, alterations, or maintenance to nonconforming
structures, the Community Development Director or their designee is required to determine if such work
constitutes substantial improvement or repair of a substantially damaged structure. A determination
must be made in accordance with the following procedures:
(a) Estimate the market value of the structure. In the case of repairs, the market value of the
structure shall be the market value before the damage occurred and before any restoration or repairs
are made.
(b) Estimate the cost of the project. The property owner shall accommodate for inspection, and
furnish other documentation needed by the Community Development Director or their designee to
evaluate costs.
(1) Improvement costs shall be comprised of the market rate of all materials and labor, as well
as the costs of all ordinary maintenance and upkeep carried out over the past one year.
(2) Costs to repair damages shall be comprised of the market rate of all materials and labor
required to restore a building to its pre-damaged condition regardless of the work
proposed, as well as associated improvement costs if structure is being restored beyond its
pre-damaged condition.
(c) Compare the cost of the improvement, repairs, or combination thereof to the estimated
market value of the structure, and determine whether the proposed work constitutes substantial
improvement or repair of a substantially damaged structure, as defined in Section 2.0 of this
ordinance.
(d) Based on this determination, the Community Development Director or their designee shall
prepare a determination letter and notify the property owner accordingly. Structures determined to
be substantially damaged or substantially improved may not be reconstructed except in conformity
with the provisions of this ordinance.
614.02.13 Violations and Penalties
1. Uses in Violation of the Ordinance. Every structure, fill, deposit, or other use placed or maintained in
the floodplain in violation of this ordinance shall be considered a public nuisance.
2. Civil Remedies. The creation of a public nuisance may be enjoined and the maintenance of a public
nuisance under this ordinance may be abated by an action brought by the City of Fridley or the
Department of Natural Resources.
3. Enforcement. Violations of the provisions of this ordinance constitutes a misdemeanor and is
punishable as defined by law. The Community Development Director or their designee may utilize
93
the full array of enforcement actions available to it including but not limited to prosecution and fines,
Jufn!3/
injunctions, after-the-fact permits, orders for corrective measures or a request to the National Flood
Insurance Program for denial of flood insurance. The City of Fridley must act in good faith to enforce
these official controls and to correct ordinance violations to the extent possible so as not to
jeopardize its eligibility in the National Flood Insurance Program.
614.02.14 Amendments
1. Ordinance Amendments. Any revisions to the floodplain maps by the Federal Emergency
Management Agency or annexations of new map panels require an ordinance amendment to update the
map references in Section 3.2 of this ordinance.
2. Required Approval. All amendments to this ordinance must be submitted to the Department of
Natural Resources for review and approval prior to adoption, for compliance with state and federal rules
and requirements. The floodplain ordinance shall not be considered valid until approved.
94
Jufn!3/
614.03 O-2 CRITICAL AREA OVERLAY DISTRICT
Overlay Zoning Districts 2 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
95
Jufn!3/
Section 614.03 Critical Area Overlay District
614.03.01 Purpose
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.
614.03.02 General Provisions
1. Jurisdiction. The provisions of this Chapter apply to land within the O-2 District, which is
land within the river corridor boundary as described in the State Register, volume 43, pages
508 to 519 and shown on the City 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.
4. Underlying Zoning. Use and standards of underlying zoning apply except where standards
of this overlay district are more restrictive.
5. Enforcement. The City is responsible for the administration and enforcement of this Chapter.
Any violation of its provisions or failure to comply with any of its requirements including
violations of conditions and safeguards established in connection with grants of variances or
conditional uses constitutes a misdemeanor and is punishable as defined by law. Violations of
this Chapter can occur regardless of whether or not a permit is required for a regulated activity
listed in Section 614.03.04.01.
614.03.03 Definitions
96
Jufn!3/
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, the words “must” and “shall” are
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.
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.
97
Jufn!3/
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.
Figure 3. Bluff Impact Zone, Bluffline, Toe of bluff, and Top of Bluff
Bluffline: A line delineating the top of the bluff. More than one bluffline may be encountered
proceeding landward from the river. See Figure 2 for natural escarpment or cliff example and
Figure 3 for more common bluff example.
Bluff, Toe of: A line along the bottom of a bluff, requiring field verification, such that the slope
above the line exceeds 18 percent and the slope below the line is 18 percent or less, measured
over a horizontal distance of 25 feet. See Figures 2 for natural escarpment or cliff example and
Figure 3 for more common bluff example.
Bluff, Top of: A line along the top of a bluff, requiring field verification, such that the slope below
the line exceeds 18 percent and the slope above the line is 18 percent or less, measured over a
horizontal distance of 25 feet. See Figures 2 for natural escarpment or cliff example and Figure 3
for more common bluff example.
98
Jufn!3/
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 Minnesota 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.
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, conditional 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.
99
Jufn!3/
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
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. Also referred to as
“grading”.
Lift: A tram or other accessible means to get up and down steep slopes.
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.
100
Jufn!3/
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 Facility: 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, equestrian, or mountain bike use, as determined by local, regional,
or state agency plans.
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,
“facility” includes all mine pits, quarries, stockpiles, basins, processing structures and equipment,
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.
101
Jufn!3/
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 facilities.
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,
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 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.
102
Jufn!3/
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.
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
103
Jufn!3/
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.
Subsurface sewage treatment system. Having the meaning given under Minnesota Rules Part
7080.1100.
Transmission services: Electrical power 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: “Variance” means the same as that defined in 44 CFR § 59.1 and Minnesota Statutes,
Section 462.357, Subd. 6(2).
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,
104
Jufn!3/
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.
614.03.04 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 614.03.11 and land alteration consistent with Section 614.03.12.
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
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 614.03.04.04; and
(b) Make written findings that the variance is consistent with the purpose of this Chapter
as follows:
(1) The extent, location and intensity of the variance will be in substantial compliance
with the MRCCA Plan; and
(2) The variance is consistent with the character and management purpose of the
MRCCA district in which it is located.
3. Conditional and interim use permits. All conditional 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 614.03.04.04; and
105
Jufn!3/
(b) Make written findings that the conditional or interim use permit is consistent with the
purpose of this Chapter as follows:
(1) The extent, location and intensity of the conditional or interim use permit will be
in substantial compliance with the MRCCA Plan; and
(2) The conditional or interim use permit is consistent with the character and
management purpose of the MRCCA district in which it is located.
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,
conditional 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;
(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 Community Development Director
or their designee determines that the information is not needed.
(a) A detailed project description; and
106
Jufn!3/
(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) Existing and proposed vegetation to be removed and established;
(9) Ordinary high water level, blufflines, and all required setbacks;
(10) Existing and proposed impervious surfaces as well as surfacing to be used; and
(11) 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 adoption of this Chapter 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 614.03.07.03 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
107
Jufn!3/
(2) The expanded structure’s scale and bulk is consistent with that of the original
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 conditional 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:
(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 614.03.07.01
as part of the conditional 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 614.03.04.07.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
provide persons with disabilities access to the persons’ property, as required by the federal
108
Jufn!3/
Americans with Disabilities Act and the federal Fair Housing Act and as provided by Minnesota
Rules Chapter 1341, must:
(a) Comply with Sections 614.03.07-614.03.14; or
(b) If Sections 614.03.07-614.03.14 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.
614.03.05 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.
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)
109
Jufn!3/
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
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.
614.03.06 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;
110
Jufn!3/
(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 614.03.14, 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;
(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 communication towers that existed in the MRCCA prior to the adoption of this
Chapter are considered legally nonconforming.
(b) A new wireless communication towers or the physical modification of an existing
wireless communication tower that results in an increase in the intensity of the
nonconforming use requires a conditional use permit and is subject to the following
design standards:
111
Jufn!3/
(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 614.03.09.01.
614.03.07 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 lesser, unless identified as exempt in Section
614.03.14. 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.
(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 conditional use according to
Section 614.03.07.02.
2. In addition to the variance or conditional use requirements of Section 614.03.04.04, criteria
for considering whether to grant a variance or conditional 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;
112
Jufn!3/
(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;
(7) Increasing the setbacks of the building from the Mississippi River or blufflines; or
(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 614.03.14.
(b) Structures, impervious surfaces, and facilities must comply with the following OHWL
setback provisions unless identified as exempt in Section 614.03.14:
(1) Rural and Open Space District: 200 feet from the Mississippi River.
(2) River Neighborhood District: 100 feet from the Mississippi River.
(3) Urban Mixed District: 50 feet from the Mississippi River.
(4) Rice Creek and Springbrook Creek: 50 feet.
(c) Structures, impervious surfaces, and facilities must comply with the following bluffline
setback provisions unless identified as exempt in Section 614.03.14:
(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.
113
Jufn!3/
(e) Impervious surface lot coverage must not exceed 35% on any lot within the Shoreland
Overlay District except as a variance which shall comply with the following standards:
(1) All structures, additions or expansions shall meet setback and other requirements
of this Code;
(2) The lot shall be served with municipal sewer and water;
(3) The lot shall provide for the collection and treatment of stormwater in compliance
with Stormwater Management and Erosion Control Chapter of the Code; and
(4) 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 614.03.07.01 and Section 614.03.07.03 so as to not
require variances to use the lots for their intended purpose.
614.03.08 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 614.03.11 and 614.03.12.
2. Private roads, driveways, and parking areas. Except as provided in Section 614.03.14, private
roads, driveways and parking areas must:
(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 614.03.07.03; and
(c) Not be placed within the bluff impact zone or shore impact zone, unless exempt under
Section 614.03.14 and designed consistent with Section 614.03.09.01.
3. Private water access and viewing facilities.
(a) Private access paths must be no more than:
114
Jufn!3/
(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 private stairways, lifts, and landings located above the
OHWL 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 Section 614.03.08.3.C 1-
4, and as provided under Section 614.03.04.08.
(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.
115
Jufn!3/
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 614.03.11 and 614.03.12, 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:
(1) Meet required structure height and placement standards in Sections
614.03.07.01 and 614.03.07.03.
(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.
116
Jufn!3/
(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.
614.03.09 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 614.03.07, except
as provided in Section 614.03.14;
(c) Be consistent with the vegetation management standards in Section 614.03.11 and the
land alteration and storm water management standards in Section 614.03.12, including
use of practices identified in Best Practices for Meeting DNR General Public Waters Work
Permit GP 2004-0001, where applicable; and
(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 nesting 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:
117
Jufn!3/
(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 with authority over the chemical’s use.
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.
5. Public transportation facilities. Public transportation facilities shall comply with structure
placement and height standards in Section 614.03.07 except as provided in Section 614.03.14.
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
118
Jufn!3/
(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 614.03.07, except as provided in
Section 614.03.14;
(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:
(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
most recent version of the Minnesota DNR’s 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
119
Jufn!3/
(f) Public stairways, lifts, and landings must be designed as provided in Section
614.03.08.03.C.
614.03.10 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.
614.03.11 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. The general performance
standards for vegetation management are as follows:
(a) Development must be sited to minimize removal of or disturbance to natural
vegetation;
(b) Soil, slope stability, and hydrologic conditions are suitable for the proposed work as
determined by the Community Development Director or their designee
(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 must be conducted so as to expose the smallest practical
area of soil to erosion for the least possible time; and
(e) Grading must 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. If this is not possible, a replacement tree must be provided in
conformance with Section 614.03.11.07.
120
Jufn!3/
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 Community
Development Director or their designee;
(c) Right-of-way maintenance for public facilities meeting the standards Section
614.03.09.02
(d) Agricultural and forestry activities meeting the standards of Sections 614.03.06.01.F and
614.03.06.01.G;
(f) Selective vegetation removal 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 Section 614.03.11.06.
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 614.03.14.
5. Vegetation restoration plan. Development of a vegetation restoration plan and
reestablishment of natural vegetation is required in the following circumstances:
(a) For any vegetation removed with a permit under Section 614.03.11.04;
(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 614.03.13.
6. Vegetation Restoration Plan Performance Standards. The vegetation restoration plan must
satisfy the application submittal requirements in Section 614.03.04.05, and:
121
Jufn!3/
(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; and
(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:
(1) Vegetation plans required in response to Section 614.03.11.04.D which must be
prepared by a professional ecologist, landscape architect, or person with demonstrable
experience and knowledge related to vegetation management as accepted and
approved by the City; and
(g) 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
122
Jufn!3/
(a) Except for tree removal conducted in accordance 614.03with 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. If insufficient space is available for tree replanting
as determined by the City, a monetary fee may be provided in lieu of tree replanting.
614.03.12 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 Community Development
Director or their designee;
(2) The minimum necessary that is allowed as an exception under Section 614.03.14;
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 required permits are obtained. See Figure 8.
Figure 8. Riprap Guidelines
123
Jufn!3/
(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 614.03.12.5 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 OHWL 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;
(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 614.03.14, or fully reconstructs existing impervious
124
Jufn!3/
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 Section 614.03.11.
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;
(f) The proposed work is consistent with the vegetation standards in Section 614.03.11;
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:
125
Jufn!3/
(a) Be consistent with Minnesota Statutes Chapter 103B, and local water management
plans completed under Minnesota Rules 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.
614.03.13 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 within the MRCCA, including smaller individual sites within 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 614.03.04.05 must be submitted for all proposed
developments.
4. Design standards.
(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%;
126
Jufn!3/
(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 614.03.13.04,
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 614.03.11.04.
(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 614.03.11.04, 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
(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
127
Jufn!3/
(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.
614.03.14 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 614.03.11 and
614.03.12.
(b) Uses and activities in this Section 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 Chapter.
2. Use and activity exemptions classification.
(a) General uses and activities.
Use or Activity Set HeighSIBIApplicable standards with
backs t Z Z which the use or activity
Limits must comply
Industrial and utility structures requiring NENN 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 NENN
Bridges and bridge approach roadways E EE (E)Section 614.03.09
128
Jufn!3/
Use or Activity Set HeighSIBIApplicable standards with
backs t Z Z which the use or activity
Limits must comply
Wireless communication towers E ENN Section 614.03.06.03
Chimneys, religious spires, flag poles, NENN
public monuments, and mechanical stacks
and equipment
Historic properties and contributing E EE EExemptions 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 facilitiesE EE (E)Section 614.03.09
Essential services (other than storm water E EE (E)Section 614.03.09
facilities)
Storm water facilitiesE N E (E)Section 614.03.12
Wastewater treatment E N E N Section 614.03.09
Public transportation facilities E N (E) (E)Section 614.03.09
(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 614.03.09; 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 614.03.09
structures
Parking lots (E) N (E) (E)Section 614.03.09; 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 614.03.09
Natural-surfaced trails, access paths, and E N E ESection 614.03.09
viewing areas
129
Jufn!3/
Use or Activity Set HeighSIBIApplicable standards with
backs t Z Z which the use or activity
Limits must comply
Hard-surfaced trails and viewing platforms E N E (E)Section 614.03.09; within
BIZ, only on slopes
averaging less than 30%
Water access ramps E N E (E)Section 614.03.09
Public signs and kiosks for interpretive or E N E (E)Section 614.03.09
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.
130
Jufn!3/
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 614.03.08; 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 ESection 614.03.08
Water access ramps E N E N Section 614.03.08
Stairways, lifts, and landings E N E ESection 614.03.08
Water-oriented accessory structuresE N E N Section 614.03.08
Patios and decksE N NN Section 614.03.08
Directional signs for watercraft (private) E N E N Section 614.03.08.05;
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 614.03.12.2
riprap and retaining walls
Flood control structures E N E (E)Section 614.03.12
131
Jufn!3/
614.04 O-3 TELECOMMUNICATIONS TOWERS AND WIRELESS FACILITIES
OVERLAY DISTRICT
1. Definitions
Antenna Support Structure. Any building or other structure other than a telecommunications
tower which can be used for location of wireless facilities.
Applicant. Any person that applies for a permit for a telecommunications tower or wireless
facilities, automatic meter reading devices or small wireless facilities. (Ref Ord 1350)
Application. The process by which a person submits a request to develop, construct, build,
modify or erect a telecommunications tower or wireless facilities 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.
Approved Site. A site which has been approved by the City Council as an eligible location for
placement of a telecommunications tower or wireless facilities.
City means the City of Fridley, Minnesota.
Collocate or Collocation. 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.
Electrical Engineer. An electrical engineer licensed by the State of Minnesota.
Existing Site. A telecommunications tower or antenna support structure installed or erected
prior to December 18, 1997, and which is not located on an approved site.
Local Government Unit. A county, home rule charter or statutory city, town or the
Metropolitan Council.
Owner. Any person with fee simple title to any approved site, existing site, site approved by
special use permit or wireless facility.
Pad Mount Device. 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 like
the automatic meter reading device, but, which is installed on its own pedestal and not on
an existing public utility structure.
Person. Any natural person, firm, partnership, association, corporation, company or other
legal entity, private or public, whether for profit or not for profit.
Satellite Earth Station Antenna. 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.
Small Wireless Facility. A wireless facility that meets both of the following qualifications; or
Overlay Zoning Districts 3 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
132
Jufn!3/
A. Each antenna is located inside an enclosure of no more than six 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 cubic feet; and
B. 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 28 cubic feet in volume; or
C. A micro wireless facility.
State. The State of Minnesota.
Structural Engineer. A structural engineer licensed by the State of Minnesota.
Tower, telecommunications. A self-supporting monopole structure constructed from grade
which supports wireless facilities. The term “telecommunications tower” shall not include
amateur radio operator’s equipment as licensed by the FCC. Lattice or guyed structures are
prohibited.
Toll. To stop the running of a relevant time period, such as a review period.
Utility Pole. A pole that is used in whole or in part to facilitate telecommunications or electric
service.
Wireless Facility. Equipment at a fixed location that enables the provision of wireless services
between user equipment and a wireless service network, including:
1. Cables, wires, lines, wave guides, antennas and any other 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 configuration; or
3. A small wireless facility.
The term “wireless facilities” shall not include:
1. Any satellite earth station antenna two meters in diameter or less which is located in
an area zoned industrial or commercial;
2. Any satellite earth station reception antenna one meter or less in diameter,
regardless of zoning category;
3. Automatic meter reading systems;
4. Small wireless facilities;
5. Wireless support structures;
6. Wireless backhaul facilities; and
7. 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.
Wireless Service. 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
Overlay Zoning Districts 4 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
133
Jufn!3/
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 47 U.SC. § 522
(6).
Wireless Support Structure. 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.
2. Purpose and Intent
(a) The general purpose of this Section is to create an overlay district to regulate the
placement, construction and modification of telecommunications towers and wireless
facilities.
(b) Specifically, the purpose of this Section is:
(1) To ensure that telecommunications towers and wireless facilities are compatible
with surrounding land uses;
(2) To minimize adverse visual impact of telecommunications towers and wireless
facilities through careful design, siting, landscaping and innovative camouflaging
techniques;
(3) To promote and encourage shared use/collection of telecommunications 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 telecommunications towers and wireless facilities;
(4) To avoid potential damage to property caused by telecommunications towers
and wireless 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;
(5) To facilitate the provision of telecommunications towers and wireless facility
services to the residents and businesses of the City in a streamlined, orderly, and
efficient fashion;
(6) To encourage the location of telecommunications towers in industrial and
business districts, rather than residential areas;
(7) To enhance the ability of providers of telecommunication services to provide such
services to the community quickly, effectively, and efficiently; and
(8) To identify specific sites within the City where telecommunications towers and
wireless facilities may be located;
3. District Boundaries for Overlay District
(a) The O-3, Telecommunications Towers and Facilities District, is created and shall apply
to all land within the City subject to the provisions and use requirements contained
in this Section.
4. Uses Permitted
Overlay Zoning Districts 5 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
134
Jufn!3/
(a) All principal and accessory uses allowed in each underlying primary zoning district
are permitted in the telecommunications towers and wireless facilities district, except
that no telecommunications towers shall be constructed, and no wireless facilities
shall be placed, on telecommunications towers or antenna support structures except
as provided for in this Chapter.
(b) The construction of telecommunications towers and the installation, operation and
maintenance of wireless facilities shall be permitted uses in the approved sites
identified on Appendix A to this Ordinance, subject to the provisions of this Chapter.
(c) Conditional Uses
(1) The construction of telecommunications towers and the installation, operation
and maintenance of wireless facilities shall be a conditional use in Zoning districts
M-1, M-2, and M-3, and any abutting railroad rights-of-way.
(2) The construction of telecommunications towers and the installation, operation,
and maintenance of wireless facilities shall be a conditional use in the Critical
Area Overlay District and subject to jurisdiction of the Critical Area Chapter.
5. Nonconforming Uses
(a) Existing sites shall be considered a legal nonconforming use, unless otherwise
provided for in this Chapter.
nstallation of additional wireless facilities beyond those in existence on December
(b) I
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.
(c) Routine maintenance of wireless facilities on existing sites is permitted, except that
any wireless facilities installed on existing sites may not increase in size, height,
weight or otherwise result in an increase in the intensity of the nonconforming use.
(d) If any wireless facilities on an existing site are abandoned for a period of one year,
such existing site shall lose its legal nonconforming status and shall be considered an
illegal nonconforming use. The abandoned wireless facilities shall not be re-
established on the site, and must be removed within 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
650 of the City Code.
6. Priority for Use
(a) Priority for use of the installation, maintenance and operation of telecommunications
towers and wireless facilities will be given to the following entitles in descending
order:
(1) City of Fridley.
(2) 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.
(3) Other governmental agencies, for uses which are not related to public safety.
Overlay Zoning Districts 6 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
135
Jufn!3/
(4) Entities providing licensed commercial wireless facility services including cellular,
public and personal communication services (PCS), and similar services that are
marketed to the general public.
7. Installation Requirements on Water Towers and in City
(a) Installation of wireless facilities on water towers will be permitted when the City is
fully satisfied that the following requirements are met:
(1) The wireless facility will not increase the risks of contamination to the City’s water
supply.
(2) There is sufficient room on the structure or on the grounds to accommodate the
wireless facility.
(3) The presence of the wireless facility will not increase the water tower or reservoir
maintenance costs to the City.
(4) The presence of the wireless facility will not be harmful to the health of workers
maintaining the water tower or reservoir.
(5) All state and federal regulations pertaining to non-ionizing radiation and other
health hazards has been satisfied.
8. Building Permit Required
(1) A building permit is required for installation of any telecommunications towers
and wireless facilities.
(2) 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.
9. Setbacks
(1) The telecommunications towers and wireless facilities shall be located in rear or
side yard areas and shall be setback at least 10 feet from side or rear lot lines.
10. Use Standards
(a) Telecommunications Tower Height
(1) Telecommunications towers are exempt from the maximum height restrictions of
the underlying zoning districts where they are located.
(2) Telecommunications tower height shall be measured from the average adjoining
grade to the highest point of construction of any telecommunications tower or
wireless facilities.
(3) Telecommunications towers shall be permitted to a height of 125 feet.
(4) An additional 25 feet of telecommunications tower height shall be permitted for
a total height of 150 feet, if all of the following criteria are met:
Overlay Zoning Districts 7 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
136
Jufn!3/
((a)) The telecommunications tower exists within a lineal dimension of 250 feet
of any one of the following structures that exceed the height of 150 feet.
These structures include:
((1)) Buildings;
((2)) Power lines; and
((3)) Train/rail yard fixtures such as light fixtures.
((b)) Telecommunications towers must meet or exceed any local, state or
federal regulations relative to tower fall distance.
((c)) All permits required to replace or expand an existing telecommunications
tower must be reviewed and approved by the City prior to replacement or
expansion.
(b) Co-Location
(1) Telecommunications towers shall be designed to support more than two wireless
facilities. Support structures shall be designed to support more than one small
wireless facility.
(c) Stealth Design and Exterior Finishes
(1) All approved sites, telecommunications towers and wireless facilities shall be
designed to blend into the surrounding environment.
(2) 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.
(3) Wireless facilities placed on water towers shall be finished with a non-corrosive
material to match the color of the water tower.
(d) Illumination
(1) Telecommunications towers shall not be artificially illuminated except as required
by the Federal Aviation Administration (“FAA”).
(e) Special Landscape Requirements
(1) All sites shall include appropriate landscaping as required herein and shall
comply with all landscaping requirements of the underlying zoning district.
(2) 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 100 percent opaque vegetative enclosure, six feet in height at the time of
planting.
(3) Accessory above-ground equipment must utilize existing buildings or structures,
if possible. If no existing structures are available, the owner of the wireless facility
must construct such a structure.
(f) Security
(1) All telecommunications towers must be reasonably posted and secured to
protect against trespass. Chain link fences may be used to protect
Overlay Zoning Districts 8 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
137
Jufn!3/
telecommunications towers and wireless facilities. Barbed or razor wire is
prohibited. All facilities shall be designed to discourage unauthorized climbing on
the structure.
(g) Signs
(1) Signs no larger than four square feet in size and attached to a structure are the
only permitted signage associated with the telecommunications towers and
wireless facilities.
(2) An exception to the above restriction shall be made for applicable warning and
equipment information signage required by the manufacturer or by federal, state
or local regulations.
(h) Maintenance
(1) Ordinary and reasonable care of telecommunications towers and wireless
facilities shall be employed at all times.
(2) All telecommunications towers and 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.
(3) Owners shall install and maintain telecommunications towers and 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.
(4) All maintenance or construction on telecommunications towers and wireless
facilities shall be performed by qualified maintenance and construction
personnel.
(5) All owners of wireless facilities shall maintain compliance with current radio
frequency emission standards of the FCC.
(6) In order to provide information to its citizens, copies of all FCC information
concerning wireless facilities shall be made available to the City and updated
annually.
(7) In the event the use of a telecommunications tower, a public utility structure or a
wireless facility is discontinued by the owner of the wireless facility, 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.
11. Application for Placement of Towers or Wireless Facilities on Approved Sites in the City
(a) All persons seeking to install, operate and maintain telecommunications towers and
wireless facilities on 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 telecommunications tower or antenna support structure is capable
Overlay Zoning Districts 9 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
138
Jufn!3/
of supporting the equipment necessary to install, operate and maintain the
proposed antenna.
((a)) The engineer shall also certify the capability of the telecommunications
tower to provide adequate structural support considering existing or other
proposed antenna installations.
((b)) 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 facility including a cross-section and
elevation; and
(5) A scalable site plan drawn at an engineering scale showing the location of the
wireless 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
telecommunications tower or the wireless facility; and
(8) An application fee as required by Chapter 11; and
he application shall also contain an affirmative statement indicating that the
(9) T
applicant agrees to comply with the provisions in Section 205.30.25. regarding
abandonment; and
(10) No new or existing wireless facility service shall interfere with public safety
communications. Before the introduction of new service or before implementing
any change in existing service, all wireless facility service providers shall notify the
City at least 10 calendar days in advance of such changes and allow the City to
monitor interference levels during the testing process; and
(11) An application for a building permit to 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 operating wireless
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 telecommunication tower and wireless facility is
capable of supporting the proposed antenna arrays, equipment and personnel
performing typical work functions; and
Overlay Zoning Districts 10 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
139
Jufn!3/
(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 telecommunications towers and
wireless facilities in M-1, M-2, M-3 Zoning Districts as a conditional use permit shall
submit the information required in 205.30.07.A, except items (3) and (11).
12. Application Process
(a) If a telecommunications towers and wireless facilities is approved by a conditional
use permit, the applicant must also apply for and receive a building permit.
13. Fees
(a) 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 or a
wireless facility in the City.
(b) If deemed as necessary due to the nature of the application, the applicant shall also
be required to reimburse the City for the City’s cost to retain a consultant to review
the requested application.
14. Certifications and Inspections
(a) All telecommunications towers and wireless 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 conditional use
permit and all other construction standards set forth by the City Code and federal,
state and local law.
(b) Existing 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 placed on a conditional use permit, all other
construction standards set forth in the City Code and all other federal, state and local
laws.
(c) The City and its agents shall have authority to enter onto any approved site, existing
site, or site approved by conditional 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 construction standards provided by the City Code
and federal and State law.
(d) The City reserves the right to conduct such inspections at any time, upon reasonable
notice to the owner(s).
(e) All expenses related to such inspections by the City shall be borne by the site
owner(s).
15. Abandonment
(a) If any site for which approval to install, maintain and operate a telecommunications
tower, public utility structure or wireless facility has been granted by the City shall
cease to be used for a period of 365 consecutive days, the City shall notify the
Overlay Zoning Districts 11 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
140
Jufn!3/
wireless facility operator and the owner of the property that said site or system has
been deemed abandoned.
(b) Upon a finding of abandonment by the City, the telecommunications tower, public
utility structure or wireless facility must be removed or an annual user fee shall be
paid to the City.
(c) If it is determined that the abandoned telecommunications tower, public utility
structure or wireless facility 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.
16. No Recourse
(a) No Recourse against the City. Every permit issued to an applicant for construction,
installation, maintenance or operation of a telecommunications tower or wireless
facility 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 Chapter or because of the
enforcement or lack of enforcement of this Chapter or the City’s exercise of its
authority pursuant to this Chapter, a 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.
17. Violation
(a) Any person who shall violate any of the provisions of this Chapter shall be guilty of a
misdemeanor and subject to the provisions of Chapter 901 of the Fridley City Code.
614.05 O-4 PRE-1955 RESIDENTIAL LOTS OVERLAY DISTRICT
1.Purpose
(a) The purpose of this special zoning district is to:
(1) Change the present "legal, nonconforming use" status of the residential dwellings
located in this district on lots over 4,000 square feet in size to a "conforming use"
status.
(2) Re-establish and maintain the residential character of Fridley’s neighborhoods.
(3) Protect the property rights of all present landowners, while promoting
reinvestment and infill development in Fridley neighborhoods.
(4) Establish a zoning mechanism for the City that will encourage residential
investment and development on those lots created and recorded at Anoka
County prior to December 29, 1955.
2. District Boundaries
Overlay Zoning Districts 12 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
141
Jufn!3/
(a) This Section and zoning district shall be referred to as the "Pre-1955 Lots" in short
form.
(b) The extent of this zoning overlay district shall only be comprised of those
residentially zoned lots split, platted, or otherwise created and recorded at Anoka
County prior to December 29, 1955.The O-4 district includes lots meeting all criteria
set forth in this chapter, located in the following Plats created and recorded prior to
December 29, 1955: Adams Street Addition; Auditor’s Subdivisions #22, #23, #25,
#39, #59, #77, #78, #79, #88, #89, #92, #94, #94 Sublot 10, #108, #129, #153, and
#155; Berlin Addition; Brookview Addition; Brookview 2nd Addition; Camp Howard
and Hush’s 1st Addition to Fridley Park; Carlson’s Summit Manor North Addition;
Carlson’s Summit Manor South Addition; Central Avenue Addition; Central View
Manor; Christie Addition; City View; Clover Leaf Addition; Clover Leaf 2nd Addition;
Dennis Addition; Donnay’s Lakeview Manor; Elwell’s Riverside Heights; Elwell’s
Riverside Heights Plat 2; Florence Park Addition to Fridley; Fridley Park; Hamilton’s
Addition to Mechanicsville; Hayes River Lots; Hillcrest Addition; Horizon Heights;
Irvington Addition to Fridley Park; Lowell Addition to Fridley Park; Lucia Lane
Addition; Lund Addition; Meloland Gardens; Moore Lake Addition; Moore Lake
Highlands & Additions 1-4; Moore Lake Hills; Moore Lake Park Addition; Moore Lake
Park 2nd Addition; Murdix Park; Niemann Addition; Norwood Addition to Fridley
Park; Oak Creek Addition; Oak Creek Addition Plat 2; Oak Grove Addition to Fridley
Park; Oakhill Addition; Onaway; Osborne Manor; Ostmans 1st Addition; Ostmans 2nd
Addition; Parkview Manor; Plymouth; Rearrangement of Blocks 13, 14, 15 Plymouth;
Rearrangement of Lots 1,2,3, Blk 1 and Lots 1,2,3, Blk 4 Rice Creek Terrace Plat 2; Rees
Addition to Fridley Park; Revised Auditor’s Subdivisions #10, #23, #77, #103; Rice
Creek Terrace Plats 1-4; Riverview Heights; Sandhurst Addition; Second Revised
Auditors Subdivision #21; Scherer Addition; Shaffer’s Subdivsion #1; Shorewood;
Springbrook Park; Spring Lake Park Lakeside; Spring Valley; Subdivsion of Lot 10,
Auditor’s Subdivision #94; Sylvan Hills; Sylvan Hills Plat 2 & 3; Vineland Addition to
Fridley Park; and any unplatted lots created, prior to December 29, 1955, as recorded
at Anoka County. Any lot combinations or divisions of Parcel Identification Numbers
done on or after January 1, 2001 makes the property ineligible for inclusion in this
overlay district.
3. Applicability
(a) This section applies only to lots that are under the minimum lot size requirement of
9,000 square feet for all one-unit detached dwellings.
4. Uses Permitted
(a) Principal Uses.
(1) One unit detached dwellings.
(b) Accessory Uses.
(1) All garages whether attached to, tucked under or detached from the principal
dwelling is considered to be an accessory structure and shall not exceed 100
Overlay Zoning Districts 13 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
142
Jufn!3/
percent of the first-floor area of the dwelling unit or a maximum of 1,000 square
feet.
(2) All permitted accessory uses authorized by the underlying base zoning district of
this overlay district, including substandard lots, may be applied, when meeting all
requirements for the applicable accessory use in Chapter 621.
(3) All accessory uses shall meet the following performance standards:
((a)) Only one accessory structure in excess of 240 square feet is allowed per
site. One additional accessory structure is allowed provided it does not
exceed 240 square feet. Total accessory structure size shall be limited to a
500 square feet per property.
((b)) Any accessory structure in excess of the above requirements (square
footage or number of buildings) requires a conditional use permit in
accordance to the procedures in Section 650.02 (4).
((c)) All accessory structures must be permanently attached to a foundation or
held in place with approved tie-downs and may not be used for home
occupations.
(c) Existing Uses.
(1) Existing one unit detached dwellings that do not conform to the conditions of
this Chapter will be allowed to continue as a permitted use.
(2) Alterations and additions are permitted to improve the structure, provided they
meet the required setbacks as stated in this Chapter.
ny uses not listed indicates that the land use is prohibited. In the event a proposed
(d) A
use is not listed, the Community Development Director shall make a determination if
the use is consistent by type, intensity, physical characteristics, style, size and purpose
with any use listed in Tables XXX and XXX.
5. Lot Requirements and Setbacks
Minimum Max. Minimum
Principal Building Setbacks (Ft.)
Minimum Max
Lot Bldg Floor
Lot Area Bldg.
Width Height Area (sq.
1 2
(sq. ft.) Coverage
Front SideRearCorner
(ft.) (ft.) ft.)
4,000 40 at the 25 1025’ 17.5; 35% 30 750
required living
25’ if
setback
15’ there is
attached an
garage accessory
at the building
rear that
opens to
the street
Overlay Zoning Districts 14 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
143
Jufn!3/
1
Two side yards are required with the minimum width listed except as follows:
Where a house is built without an attached garage, a minimum side yard requirement
shall be 10 feet on one side, and 13 feet on the other side, so that there is access to the
rear yard for a detached garage and off-street parking area.
Where a house is built with an attached garage, the side yard adjoining the attached
garage or accessory structure may be reduced to not less than five feet, provided the
height of the garage or accessory structure on that side is not more than 14 feet.
2
Detached accessory structures may be built not less than three feet from any lot line in the
rear yard not adjacent to a street.
6. O-4 District Standards
(a)All uses in this district shall conform to the applicable development and performance
standards found in this Title.
(b) Parking Requirements.
(1) All applicable off-street parking requirements in accordance with Chapter 631
shall be met.
(2) At least two off street parking stalls shall be provided for each dwelling unit.
(3) A garage shall satisfy the minimum off-street parking space requirements.
614.06 O-5 SHORELAND OVERLAY DISTRICT
Overlay Zoning Districts 15 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
144
Jufn!3/
CHAPTER 614.06Shoreland Overlay District
614.06 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 this Chapter 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 Zoning and Subdivision 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 this Chapter.
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 this Chapter.
The specific boundaries of the shoreland permit overlay district are shown on the official
Fridley Shoreland Overlay District Map in the Fridley Zoning Code.
145
Jufn!3/
(b) Properties that are also within the jurisdiction of the Critical Area Chapter, shall
remain mapped as part of the Shoreland Overlay District; however, only the provisions of
the Critical Area Chapter shall apply.
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 “building” shall include the word “structure”; and the word “lot” shall include
the word “plot”; and the word “shall” is mandatory and not directory; and the word “including”
shall mean “including, but not limited to”.
For the purpose of this district the following definitions shall apply:
(a) Accessory Structure or Facility.
Any building or improvement subordinate to a principal use which, because of the nature
of its use, can reasonably be located at or greater than normal structure setbacks.
(b) Bluff.
A topographic feature such as a hill, cliff, or embankment having the following
characteristics:
(1) Part or all of the feature is located in a shoreland area;
(2) The slope must drain toward the waterbody;
(3) The slope rises at least 25 feet above the ordinary high water level; and
(4) The grade of the slope from the toe of the bluff to a point 25 feet or more above
the ordinary high water level averages 30 percent or greater (see Figure 1), except
that an area with an average slope of less than 18 percent over a distance of at least
50 feet shall not be considered part of the bluff (see Figure 2).
Figure 1. Illustration of Bluff
146
Jufn!3/
Figure 2. Exception to Bluff
(c)Bluff impact zone.
A bluff and land located within 20 feet of the top of a bluff. See Figure 3.
Figure 3. Bluff Impact Zone and Top of Bluff
(d)Bluff, Toe of.
The lower point of a 50-foot segment with an average slope exceeding 18 percent or
the ordinary high water level, whichever is higher.
147
Jufn!3/
(e) Bluff, Top of.
For the purposes of measuring setbacks, bluff impact zone, and administering
vegetation management standards, the higher point of a 50-foot segment with an
average slope exceeding 18 percent. See Figure 3.
(f) Commission.
The City of Fridley Planning Commission.
(g) Commissioner.
The Commissioner of the Department of Natural Resources of the State of Minnesota.
(h) Council.
The Fridley City Council.
(i) Critical Area.
The area known as the Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area designated by the
Governor in the Executive Order No. 130.
(j) 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.
(k) 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.
(l) Intensive vegetation clearing.
The complete removal of trees or shrubs in a contiguous patch, strip, row, or block.
(m) Lot Coverage.
The amount of impervious surface on a lot.
(n) 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:
148
Jufn!3/
((a))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;
((b)) for watercourses, the ordinary high water level is the elevation of the top
of the bank of the channel; and
((c)) for reservoirs and flowages, the ordinary high water level is the operating
elevation of the normal summer pool.
(o)Shoreland.
Shoreland means land located within the following distances from the ordinary high water
elevation of public waters:
((a)) land within 1,000 feet from the normal high watermark
of a lake, pond, or flowage; and
((b)) 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.
(p)Shore Impact Zone.
Land locatedbetween the ordinary high water level of a public water and a line parallel to
it at a setback of 50 percent of the structure setback (see Figure 4).
Figure 4. Shore Impact Zone
(q)Steep Slopes.
Lands having average slopes over 12 percent, as measured over horizontal distances of 50
feet or more, which are not bluffs.
149
Jufn!3/
(r) Structure.
Any building or appurtenance, including decks, except aerial or underground utility lines,
such as sewer, electric, telephone, telegraph, gas lines, towers, poles, and other supporting
facilities.
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.
(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
Rice Creek
Springbrook 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
150
Jufn!3/
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 Chapter Zoning and
Subdivision 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.
(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 Zoning and Subdivsion.
7. Lot area and width standards
Lot area and width standards for residential development shall be regulated per the underlying
zoning district in Chapter Zoning and Subdivision.
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:
151
Jufn!3/
(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:
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 Zoning and Subdivision.
(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:
152
Jufn!3/
((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.
(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.
153
Jufn!3/
((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.
((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.
154
Jufn!3/
((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 505 Erosion Control and Stormwater Management
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:
(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.
155
Jufn!3/
(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 this Chapter of 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.
156
Jufn!3/
(c) Nothing herein contained shall prevent the City from taking such other lawful
action as is necessary to prevent, remedy or remove any violation.
157
Jufn!3/
614.07 O-6 TRANSIT ORIENTED DEVELOPMENT OVERLAY DISTRICT
1. Definitions
Mixed Use Structure. A building or development that contains two or more different uses
such as residential, commercial, industrial or public facilities.
Primary Street. The street adjoining the property which has the highest traffic counts.
Redevelopment. When all of the existing structures on a site are removed to ready the site
for new construction.
2. Background and Authority
(a) The City of Fridley finds that Transit Oriented Development benefits the general
health and welfare of the inhabitants of Fridley by fulfilling existing housing,
transportation and employment needs. Therefore, the City of Fridley implements this
overlay district which designates a portion of the City as a Transit Oriented
Development District (“TOD” District) in an effort to support all modes of
transportation. This overlay district is adopted per authority granted by the City of
Fridley in Minnesota Statutes Chapter 462.
3. Purpose
(a) The purpose of this overlay zoning district is to:
(1) Implement code requirements that will encourage dense, mixed use, pedestrian-
friendly development within a one-half mile of the Northstar Commuter Rail
Station in Fridley.
(2) Create multi-modal connections to the Fridley Northstar Commuter Rail Station
that allow for safe access to the station no matter what means of transportation
someone uses.
(3) Create a neighborhood identity with the Northstar Commuter Rail Station that
promotes the use of mass transit, human interactions, safety and livability.
(4) Reduce automobile dependency by locating a variety of land uses within a half
mile of the Northstar Commuter Rail Station.
(5) Provide life cycle housing for people of different income levels and housing space
needs within one half mile of the Northstar Commuter Rail Station.
4. District Boundary
(a) The TOD Overlay District consists of those areas designated on the Northstar TOD
District map, which is Appendix A to this Chapter and is on file with the City Clerk
and dated March 22, 2018.
5. Uses Permitted
(a) Permitted uses in the O-6 TOD Overlay Districtare those uses which are acceptable in
the underlying zoning district as noted in the Principal and Accessory Use Tables XX
Overlay Zoning Districts 16 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
158
Jufn!3/
or in the Northstar TOD TIF District Master Plan if the parcel being developed is
included in the Northstar TOD TIF District as approved by the City.
(1) Any uses not listed indicates that the land use is prohibited. In the event a
proposed use is not listed in the use tables, the Community Development
Director shall make a determination if the use is consistent by type, intensity,
physical characteristics, style, size and purpose with any use listed in Tables XXX
and XXX.
(b) Mixed use structures do not require a conditional use permit as underlying zoning
requirements may require.
6. Process for TOD Plan Approval
(a) Plans for each individual project or combination of projects in the TOD District must
be submitted upon payment of any required fee as provided in Chapter 11.
(b) One unit detached dwelling development projects located within the R-H, Hyde Park
Zoning District are exempt from following the TOD design standards and the plan
review process.
7. Design Criteria
(a) All new development or redevelopment TOD proposals requiring a building permit
after the effective date of this Chapter must meet the following design criteria
standards designed to enhance the pedestrian scale and safety of the development.
(b) In situations where an existing building is being partially expanded, the new
standards will only apply to the new addition, except as provided in Section
205.33.08.B, Setbacks.
andscaping and streetscape design features shall be specified in a project’s Master
(c) L
Plan to match the models shown in Appendix B of this code section.
(d) Site and Lot Requirements
2
Principal Building Setbacks (Ft.)
Max Bldg
6
Max. Bldg Height (ft.)
1
Coverage
Double
3 5
FrontSideRearCorner
4
Frontage
Underlying Zoning
15 15 15 15 15 40%
District
1
Lot coverage may exceed 40percent in cases where vehicle parking is shared, underground or
structured, provided all landscaping requirements are met. Allowances exceeding the 40 percent lot
coverage limit will be made in designs that finance the creation and maintenance of public open space
for commuters nearby. Alternative storm water treatment methods such as permeable pavers, porous
asphalt, vegetated roof areas, especially at the top of structured parking facilities and other innovative
techniques to reduce stormwater run-off are encouraged.
2
Exceptions to the setback requirements will be granted to building additions to structures located on
property zoned M-2, Heavy Industrial, at the date of the creation of this TOD zoning district.
Overlay Zoning Districts 17 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
159
Jufn!3/
3
Except for one unit detached dwellings in the R-H, Hyde Park Zoning District in Chapter 611.
4
On three or four-sided lots, buildings are not required to meet the minimum 15-footsetback on more
than one corner.
5
Zero lot line setbacks are encouraged.
6
Except in the R-H Hyde Park Zoning District, where a building height of 45 feet shall apply if a
development includes tuck-under or underground parking.
(e) Building Design Standards
(1) Exterior Building Materials
((a)) All non-residential buildings shall follow the applicable architectural
standards in Chapter 633, including the additional standards listed herein this
section.
((b)) The following exterior materials are specifically prohibited in the TOD
district: Plain or painted concrete block; sheet metal panels; reflective glass;
aluminum; vinyl; fiberglass; asphalt; or fiberboard siding.
((c)) Parking structures shall be constructed with building materials that are
architecturally compatible with the adjoining structure(s).
((d)) No blank walls shall be permitted to face the public street, sidewalk or
other public spaces, such as plazas.
((e)) Elements such as windows, doors, columns, changes in material and
similar details should be used to add visual interest.
((f)) Buildings shall be designed with a base, middle and top, created by variations
in detailing, color and material.
((1)) Articulated tops shall be considered in the design of all new
buildings. This articulation may consist of pitched roofs, dormers, gable
ends or cornice detailing.
((2)) The base of the building shall include human scale elements, such
as doors, windows, projections, awnings, canopies and ornamentation.
(2) Entrance Orientation
((a)) Primary building entrances on all new buildings shall be oriented to the
primary abutting public street.
((b)) Additional secondary entrances may be oriented to a secondary street or
parking area.
((c)) Entries shall be clearly visible and identifiable from the street, and
delineated with elements such as roof overhangs, recessed entries,
landscaping or similar design features.
(3) Façade Articulation
((a)) Building widths of 40 feet or less are encouraged.
Overlay Zoning Districts 18 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
160
Jufn!3/
((b))New buildings of more than 40 feet in width shall be divided into smaller
increments, between 20 and 40 feet in width, through articulation of the
façade. This can be achieved through combinations of the following
architectural design techniques and others that may meet the intent ofthis
section(see Figure X):
Figure X
((1))Façade Modulation – Stepping back or extending forward a
portion of the façade.
((2))Vertical Division – Using different textures or materials, provided
materials are drawn from a common palette.
((3))Storefronts – Division of building face into distinct storefronts with
separate entrances and display windows.
((4))Roof Lines – Varied roof lines with alternating dormers, stepped
roofs, gables or other roof elements to reinforce the modulation or
articulation interval.
((5))Articulation Interval – Placement of arcades, awnings, window
bays, arched windows or balconies at intervals equal to the articulation
interval.
(4)Door and Window Openings
((a))In new commercial, mixed-use and civic buildings, window and door
openings shall comprise at least 50 percent of the length of the main floor of
Overlay Zoning Districts194/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
161
Jufn!3/
the primary street façade. Window openings shall be located at a pedestrian
sight level.
((1)) Windows shall be designed with openings that create a strong
rhythm of light and shadow.
((2)) Glass on windows and doors on the primary street façade shall be
clear or slightly tinted, allowing views into and out of the building interior
or, as an alternative, used as display windows enclosed by walls inside the
building.
((3)) Where security needs warrant it, spandrel glass may be used in the
primary street façade windows subject to City approval in the plan review
process.
((4)) Window shape, size and patterns shall emphasize the intended
organization of the façade and the definition of the building.
(5) Loading Docks
((a)) Outside loading docks shall be located in the rear or side yard and be
screened from view from any public right-of-way.
((b)) The space needed for the loading dock must be adequate to handle the
loading and unloading needs of the building without obstructing the public
right-of-way.
(6) Refuse/Recycling Storage
((a)) Multi-tenant buildings shall share a common refuse/recycling storage
area. Refuse/recycling collection areas must be screened from view form any
public right-of-way and are encouraged to be enclosed inside a building.
8. Landscaping Requirements
(a) Scope
(1) A landscaping plan shall be submitted according to the requirements of the
underlying zoning district, except for as provided in Section 205.33.10.B.1.
(2)Mixed use projects must have a unified landscaping scheme.
(3) The landscaping requirements in this Chapter will only apply to new construction
projects or projects where existing buildings are expanded to the reduced 15-
foot setback.
(b) Plant Materials Substitutions
(1) The landscaping requirements in the underlying zoning district shall apply to
properties in the TOD Overlay District with some exceptions:
((a)) TOD landscape plans for redevelopment of property located in the
underlying Hyde Park zoning district must follow the landscape requirements
for the zoning district that most closely represents the use proposed.
Overlay Zoning Districts 20 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
162
Jufn!3/
((b)) In the TOD Overlay District, one ornamental tree will count as one
overstory deciduous tree. In addition, ornamental trees may exceed 50
percent of the required trees.
((c)) Due to the amount of hardscape needed for pedestrian walkways, if the
level of open space for planting restricts the ability to provide adequate
growth space for tree roots, perennial planting beds and permanent planters
may be substituted for over-story trees at a rate of 36 square feet of plant
area per tree substitution.
((d)) Decorative walkway light poles meeting the design specified in the Fridley
Northstar TOD TIF District Master Plan as shown in Appendix B may be
substituted at a ratio of one light pole for two trees if the site design warrants
additional walkway lighting.
((e)) Street-side sculptures, public art, permanent or movable planters, light
pole banners, clock towers, arbors, seating benches or similar ornamentation
may be considered as substitution to meet landscaping requirements.
(2) If it is not feasible to meet the landscaping requirements of the underlying
zoning district with the allowed substitutions above, the City may approve a
monetary payment per fees established in Chapter 11 into the TOD Capital
Project Fund for the purpose of funding streetscape amenities within the street
rights of ways within the TOD overlay district.
(c) Water
(1) Drip irrigation systems are encouraged to reduce water consumption and to
prevent wet walkways. Examples of alternative storm water treatments are
permeable pavers, porous asphalt, vegetative roof areas, rain gardens, infiltration
basins, tree trenches, green walls, grass swales, filter strips, cisterns, underground
detention/retention, or other innovative techniques used to reduce storm water
runoff.
9. Streetscape Requirements
(a) Sidewalks and Pedestrian Connections
(1) Sidewalks of a minimum six-foot width must be provided on all street frontages.
(2) All streetscape and sidewalk design detail will need to be approved by the City as
part of a development’s TOD master plan in compliance with the design criteria in
the Northstar TOD TIF District Master Plan, along public right of ways adjacent to
the proposed development.
(3) Scored concrete, colored concrete, permeable and concrete pavers are suggested
pavement options for sidewalks.
(4) Paved connections to building entrances, crosswalks, and adjacent bus stops
must also be incorporated into any site design.
(5) A colorized pavement pattern connecting the sidewalk on each side of the
driveway shall be incorporated into driveways, warning drivers of the sidewalk
Overlay Zoning Districts 21 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
163
Jufn!3/
connection on each side of the driveway. Such connection shall be accessible in
accordance with ADA standards.
(b) Lighting
(1) A lighting plan and fixture specification schedule shall be included in the
documents submitted to the City for approval.
(2) Street and pathway lighting types, styles and colors shall be provided according
to the specifications in Appendix B and coordinated with the overall design of
City-installed lighting in the TOD District.
(3)Pedestrian-oriented lighting is required on all streets, trails, sidewalks and public
gathering places within the TOD District.
(4) Energy efficiency is encouraged in all aspects of a project’s Master Plan.
(c) Site Furnishings
(1) Decorative fencing, railings, walls, bike racks, benches, waste receptacles and
dumpster enclosures that are incorporated into landscape designs shall match
features designated in the Northstar TOD TIF District Master Plan or similar
design approved by the City.
(2) Public transit benches located in the Northstar TOD District shall also meet the
TOD design criteria.
10. Maintenance
(a) In addition to the maintenance requirements of the underlying zoning district,
property owners in the TOD district are required to maintain the landscape and
streetscape abutting their property. This includes the removal of debris and snow on
trails and walkways and at bus stops and the irrigation of planters on their own
private property and those in the public right-of-way adjoining the property. Further
details of the maintenance requirements shall be addressed in a development
agreement approved by the City.
Overlay Zoning Districts 22 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017128.v1
164
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 620Principal Use-Specific Standards
620.01 ADULT ENTERTAINMENT ESTABLISHMENT
1. Adult entertainment establishments shall follow all standards set forth in the Chapter 308
titled, “Adult Entertainment Establishments.”
620.02 ANIMAL BOARDING, SHELTER OR DAY CAREAND ANIMAL VETERINARY
CLINIC OR HOSPITAL
1. The facility shall meet all applicable state and federal regulations, including but not
limited to, regulations of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, the U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service and the Minnesota Board of Animal Health.
2. In all areas of in which animals are confined, proper measures shall be taken to
soundproof these areas from adjacent properties.
3. All animals shall be kept inside overnight except when supervised by a person for the
purpose of animal relief and exercise.
4. All outdoor exercise/play areas for animals shall be enclosed with a sight-obscuring, solid
fence or wall at least six feet in height.
5. Animal waste shall be picked up and properly disposed of daily.
6. All principal structures and uses shall be located at least 100 feet from any property
zoned or guided for residential use.
620.03 AUTOMOTIVE FUEL STATION
1. The use shall not provide for the operation of lubrication, lifts or service.
2. There shall be no storage of any type, including between the pumps, except within four
feet in front of the principal building. Cages for exchangeable propane tanks not larger
than a 20-pound cylinder may be located in conformance with the applicable Fire Codes
and City approval prior to installation.
3. The property shall not be used as a place of storage or depository of wrecked,
abandoned or junked motor vehicles or the sale or display of used motor vehicles.
4. Any required buffer or screening area shall be so constructed as to obstruct headlight
beams of motor vehicles on the station property from beaming onto adjacent residential
property.
5. If the station is to be located in a shopping center or other integrated development, it
must be in architectural harmony with the rest of the shopping center or development.
6. The centerline of pump islands (or the outer edge of a pump island canopy, if present)
shall be a minimum of 25 feet from a property line.
620.04 AUTOMOBILE RECYCLING CENTER
1. Property being utilized as an automobile recycling center shall satisfy all drainage
requirements and environmental quality performance standards in accordance to
Chapter 630.
FR520\\21\\1017255.v1
165
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
2. Additional conditions beyond the following may apply as required by municipal, county,
state, federal and watershed district agencies or any other governmental or quasi-
governmental body with the approval of a conditional use permit.
3. Parking Requirements.
(a) All designated parking spaces shall be as designated for in Section 205.17.5.C.
(b) All required parking shall be used for parking of customer and employee vehicles
and not be used for storage, and shall remain unobstructed by other activities or
uses.
(c) No on-street storage of vehicles shall be permitted.
(d) The parking areas shall be maintained free of vehicle parts, litter, debris and storage
at all times.
4. Screening Requirements.
(a) All areas used for the storage of vehicles, garbage or refuse containers, raw materials,
supplies or equipment shall be enclosed by a fence, at least eight feet in height and
comply with the following:
(1) The fence shall be constructed so that no portion of the storage area is visible
from any public right-of-way.
(2) A solid fence or chain link fence with slats shall be provided. This fence may be
constructed up to a maximum of 10 feet in height.
(3) Vines and other landscaping may also be required to provide additional
screening.
(4) No storage shall exceed the height of the fence.
(5) All screening shall be maintained.
5. License Requirements.
(a) No person shall own, operate, maintain or allow to operate the automobile recycling
center within the boundaries of the City without the owner or operator first obtaining
a license pursuant thereto of the provisions of this Chapterand other applicable
chapters and sections of the City Code and any other governmental or quasi-
governmental provisions.
6. Scope.
(a) The standards and requirements set forth above shall be in addition to all other
applicable ordinances, laws, statutes, resolutions or regulations of the City or any
other governmental or quasi-governmental body.
620.05 AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR, MAJOR
1. The use shall not be located within 100 feet of any property zoned or guided for
residential use.
2. There shall be no outdoor storage on-site, including inoperable or salvage vehicles,
unless otherwise approved through a conditional use permit.
Principal Use-Specific Standards 2 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017255.v1
166
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
3. All repairs, service activities, and the storage of parts and machines shall be completed
within an enclosed building.
4. All vehicles parked on site shall display a license plate with current tabs.
5. All vehicles waiting for repair shall be stored within an enclosed building or in designated
off-street parking spaces.
6. Overnight parking of vehicles shall be inside the building and/or in the side or rear yard,
secured and screened from the public right-of-way.
7. Any required buffer or screening area will be constructed to obstruct headlight beams of
motor vehicles on the property from beaming onto adjacent residential property.
8. All automotive parts, petroleum products, anti-freeze, and hazardous materials shall be
disposed of in accordance with local and state regulations.
9. Business shall obtain an annual business license to operate.
620.06 AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE, MINOR
1. There shall be facilities on-site for customers to wait while their vehicle is serviced.
2. There shall be no outdoor storage on-site, including inoperable or salvage vehicles.
3. All repairs, service activities, and the storage of parts and machines shall be completed
within an enclosed building.
4. All vehicles waiting for repair shall be stored within an enclosed building or in designated
off-street parking spaces.
5. All vehicles parked on site shall display a license plate with current tabs.
6. Overnight parking of vehicles shall be inside the building and/or in the side or rear yard,
secured and screened from the public right-of-way.
7. Any required buffer or screening area will be constructed to obstruct headlight beams of
motor vehicles on the property from beaming onto adjacent residential property.
8. All automotive parts, petroleum products, anti-freeze, and hazardous materials shall be
disposed of in accordance with local and state regulations.
9. The sale of vehicles is prohibited, unless otherwise approved through a conditional use
permit.
10. Business shall obtain an annual business license to operate.
620.07 BREWERY, WINERY, DISTILLERY
1. The use shall comply with all applicable provisions of state and local law and obtain all
required licenses.
2. Outdoor dining is subject to the use-specific standards outlined for outdoor dining in
section 11-6-8 "Accessory Uses, N-Z" of this chapter.
620.08 CANNABIS COMBINATION BUSINESS
1. A cannabis combination business must comply with all licensing requirements of the
Office of Cannabis Management.
2. Any portion of a cannabis combination business that includes cannabis cultivation shall
comply with the requirements for cannabis cultivation.
Principal Use-Specific Standards 3 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017255.v1
167
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
3. Any portion of a cannabis combination business that includes manufacturing shall
comply with the requirements for cannabis or hemp manufacturing.
4. Any portion of a cannabis combination business that includes processing and extraction
shall comply with the requirements for cannabis processing and extraction.
5. Any portion of a cannabis combination business that includes cannabis retail shall
comply with the requirements for cannabis retail.
620.09 CANNABIS CULTIVATION
1. A cannabis cultivation facility must comply with all licensing requirements of the Office
of Cannabis Management.
2. A cannabis cultivation business may only plant, grow, harvest, store, trim, or otherwise
manipulate cannabis products inside of a completely enclosed structure within a limited
access area. A cannabis cultivation facility may transport regulated cannabis in an
outdoor portion of its limited access area only in compliance with state and local laws
and regulations.
3. A required odor mitigation plan shall be provided. The plan shall identify all odor
emitting aspects of the business, as well as mitigations to be implemented to ensure
odor is not readily detectable beyond the boundaries of the immediate site. Mitigation
measures identified in the plan are required upon establishment of the business and to
remain operational for the full duration of the business. The completely enclosed facility
shall be managed to prevent nuisance odors from being detectable from outside of the
property.
4. A cannabis cultivation business shall agree to comply with an approved National Fire
Protection Association (NFPA) standard.
620.10 CANNABIS OR HEMP MANUFACTURING
1. A cannabis or hemp manufacturing facility must comply with all licensing requirements
of the Office of Cannabis Management.
2. Entities engaged in cannabis or hemp manufacturing may only store cannabis or hemp
extract inside of a completely enclosed structure within a limited access area.
3. A required odor mitigation plan shall be provided. The plan shall identify all odor
emitting aspects of the business, as well as mitigations to be implemented to ensure
odor is not readily detectable beyond the boundaries of the immediate site. Mitigation
measures identified in the plan are required upon establishment of the business and to
remain operational for the full duration of the business. The completely enclosed facility
shall be managed to prevent nuisance odors from being detectable from outside of the
property.
4. A cannabis or hemp manufacturing business shall agree to comply with an approved
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard.
620.11 CANNABIS PROCESSING OR EXTRACTION
1. A cannabis processing or extraction facility requires a manufacturing license from the
Office of Cannabis Management.
Principal Use-Specific Standards 4 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017255.v1
168
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
2. Entities engaged in cannabis processing or extraction may only store, dry, trim, or
process cannabis plant products or extract inside of a completely enclosed structure
within a limited access area. A cannabis cultivation facility may transport regulated
cannabis in an outdoor portion of its limited access area only in compliance with state
and local laws and regulations.
3. A required odor mitigation plan shall be provided. The plan shall identify all odor
emitting aspects of the business, as well as mitigations to be implemented to ensure
odor is not readily detectable beyond the boundaries of the immediate site. Mitigation
measures identified in the plan are required upon establishment of the business and to
remain operational for the full duration of the business. The completely enclosed facility
shall be managed to prevent nuisance odors from being detectable from outside of the
property.
4. No cannabis business may use metals, butane, propane or other solvent or flammable
product, or produce flammable vapors, to process or test marijuana unless the process
used and the premises are verified as safe and in compliance with all applicable codes by
a qualified industrial hygienist.
5. The city shall require the business to obtain verification from a qualified industrial
hygienist that the manner in which the business producing or testing marijuana complies
with all applicable laws and does not produce noxious or dangerous gases or odors or
otherwise create a danger to any person or entity in or near the businesses.
6. A cannabis processing or extraction business shall agree to comply with an approved
National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) standard.
620.12 CANNABIS RETAIL BUSINESS
1. A cannabis retail facility must comply with all licensing requirements of the Office of
Cannabis Management.
2. A cannabis retail facility must comply with the minimum buffers established in the City
Code chapter titled Cannabis Businesses.
620.13 CANNABIS TESTING FACILITY
1. A cannabis testing facility must comply with all licensing requirements of the Office of
Cannabis Management.
2. A cannabis testing facility shall agree to comply with an approved National Fire
Protection Association (NFPA) standard.
620.14 CANNABIS TRANSPORTATION OR DELIVERY
1. A cannabis transportation or delivery use must comply with all licensing requirements of
the Office of Cannabis Management.
2. Any cannabis transportation or delivery use shall have direct access to a collector or
higher classification street.
620.15 CANNABIS WHOLESALE ESTABLISHMENT
1. A cannabis wholesalefacility must comply with all licensing requirements of the Office of
Cannabis Management.
Principal Use-Specific Standards 5 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017255.v1
169
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
620.16 CAR WASH
1. Vehicle stacking and circulation patterns must not interfere with required parking or
travel along a public right of way.
2. Water from the car wash shall not drain across any sidewalk or into a public right-of-way.
3. Vacuum facilities shall be located in an enclosed structure or located away from any
residential use to avoid the impacts of noise.
620.17 CARE FACILITY
1. Any care facility shall have access to a collector or higher classification street.
2. On-street parking to meet the needs of this use is prohibited.
3. The site shall contain a minimum of 150 square feet of usable open space per resident,
consisting of outdoor seating areas, gardens or recreational facilities. Public parks or
plazas within 300 feet of the site may be used to meet this requirement.
620.18 DAYCARE CENTER
1. This use shall be allowed within the City as required by Minnesota Statutes Section
462.357, subdivision 7.
(a) In zoning districts where single-unit dwellings are permitted, a licensed day care
facility serving 12 or fewer people is allowed.
(b) In zoning districts where multi-unit dwellings (two or more units in one structure) are
permitted, a licensed day care facility serving 13-16 people is allowed.
2. The proximity of the outdoor play area to the building shall be designed so that children
do not have to cross vehicle traffic.
3. Loading and drop-off locations shall not interfere with traffic flow.
4. Pedestrian crossing areas shall be clearly marked.
5. The facility shall be licensed in accordance with State and Anoka County requirements.
620.19 DWELLING, APARTMENT
1. Sidewalks shall be provided throughout the complex including from parking areas,
loading zones and recreation areas to the entrance(s) of the building.
2. A 15-foot buffer meeting the requirements of Chapter 633 Screening shall be provided
along all property lines abutting the R-1 or R-2 Districts.
3. Outdoor swimming pools or other intensive recreation shall observe setbacks required
for accessory structures.
4. Building Requirements
(a) Storage Space.
(1) 40 square feet of floor area, floor to ceiling, shall be provided per dwelling unit
for storage. A minimum of 20 square feet of storage shall be provided within the
principal structure exclusive of the individual dwelling unit. The remaining
required storage area may be located anywhere on the lot provided this area is
Principal Use-Specific Standards 6 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017255.v1
170
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
convenient and not located or included in the storage space within each
individual dwelling unit.
(2) The storage space for each dwelling unit shall be enclosed and separated from
other storage spaces.
(b) Floor Areas.
(1) Efficiency units shall have a minimum floor area of 400 square feet per unit.
(2) In any apartment dwelling, not more than 25 percent of the units shall be
efficiency units.
620.20 DWELLING, ATTACHEDTOWNHOUSE OR ROWHOUSE
1. Each individual townhouse group may contain not less than two, nor more than six,
individual townhouse dwelling units contiguous to one another along the same
façade/frontage.
2. Individual units shall be at least 20 feet wide.
3. No garage shall extend the full width of any individual unit. The front façade of a
townhouse or rowhouse unit shall include a window and door.
4. Any and all common open space shall be labeled as such on a documented plan set
approved by the City. The intent or designed function and provisions for maintenance,
ownership and preservation shall be made in accordance with the provisions of the
"Minnesota Condominium Act" (Minnesota Statutes Sections 515.01 to 515.29) and
provided to the City.
5. The final plan shall include all proposed covenants, restrictions and easements to run
with the land, together with any provisions for release from same; provisions for
dedication of easement for public streets, ways and facilities; and density, size and
location of all structures. All or any of the foregoing may be modified as deemed
necessary by the City Council for the preservation of public health, safety and general
welfare of the residents of the City of Fridley.
6. Membership in a Homeowners’ Association (HOA) shall be made part of the agreement
of the sale of each dwelling unit.
620.21 FUNERAL HOME
1. The funeral home shall make copies of State licensure renewals and inspection reports
available to the City upon request.
2. Any funeral home with a crematory shall meet the following standards:
(a) Crematory must be licensed by the State of Minnesota Department of Health.
(b) Emissions from the operation of the retort must meet State of Minnesota Pollution
Control Agency standards.
(c) The retort must be properly maintained and serviced by the manufacturer at
minimum every 18 months.
Principal Use-Specific Standards 7 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017255.v1
171
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
620.22 GARDEN CENTER/NURSERY
1. Materials shall be stored inside a permanent structure, attached to and architecturally
compatible with the principal structure.
2. Products containing chemical fertilizers, pesticides or herbicides must be stored in a
roofed and contained area where water runoff cannot reach the exterior landscape or
storm sewer.
3. Floor drainage for garden center/nursery must protect storm and ground water sources
by following stormwater best management practices (BMP’s), including a stormwater
pollution prevention plan.
4. No off-season storage may occur in the outdoor sale area unless specified in a land use
approval.
5. Creation of the garden center shall not disrupt safe traffic flow through the site.
620.23 HEMP MANUFACTURING
1. A hemp manufacturing facility must comply with all licensing requirements of the Office
of Cannabis Management.
2. Entities engaged in hemp manufacturing may only store hemp extract inside of a
completely enclosed structure within a limited access area. A hemp cultivation facility
may transport regulated hemp in an outdoor portion of its limited access area only in
compliance with state and local laws and regulations.
3. A required odor mitigation plan shall be provided. The plan shall identify all odor
emitting aspects of the business, as well as mitigations to be implemented to ensure
odor is not readily detectable beyond the boundaries of the immediate site. Mitigation
measures identified in the plan are required upon establishment of the business and to
remain operational for the full duration of the business. The completely enclosed facility
shall be managed to prevent nuisance odors from being detectable from outside of the
property.
4. A hemp business shall agree to comply with an approved National Fire Protection
Association (NFPA) standard.
620.24 HOTEL OR MOTEL
1. All hotels or motels shall be required to obtain a license, in accordance with Chapter 26
of the City Code.
620.25 MIXED USE BUILDING
1. All proposed uses in a mixed use building shall meet the minimum zoning and
development standards of the comparable use(s) in the applicable zoning district.
620.26 MOTOR VEHICLE SALES OR RENTAL
1. A minimum building floor area of 20 percent of the lot area shall be required to be
devoted to the related motor vehicle sales or rental use.
Principal Use-Specific Standards 8 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017255.v1
172
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
2. On lots with multi-tenant buildings, the individual parking demand of all uses must be
met. The spots for the motor vehicle sales or rental use must be shown on a parking plan
and identified with signage on site.
3. A fire lane shall be maintained around the perimeter of the entire building.
4. The outdoor sales or display area shall not interfere with circulation in any required
parking, loading, maneuvering or pedestrian area.
5. The outdoor sales or display area shall conform to the principal building setback
requirements of the applicable zoning district.
6. Junk vehicles are prohibited.
620.27 PAWN SHOP
1. Pawn shop uses shall meet all requirements listed in Chapter 31 of the City Code.
620.28 PLACE OF ASSEMBLY
1. Any place of assembly shall have direct access to a collector or higher classification
street.
620.29 RESIDENTIAL CARE FACILITY
1. This use shall be allowed within the City as required by Minnesota Statute 462.357,
subdivisions 7 and 8.
2. On-site services shall be for residents of the facility only, except where part of a regimen
of scheduled post-residential treatment.
3. To the extent practical, all new construction or additions to existing buildings shall be
compatible with the scale and character of the surroundings, and exterior building
materials shall be harmonious with other buildings in the neighborhood.
4. An appropriate transition area between the use and adjacent property shall be provided
by landscaping, screening and other site improvements consistent with the character of
the neighborhood.
620.30 SACRED COMMUNITY
1. Any sacred community use shall meet all requirements listed in Minnesota Statutes
Section 327.30.
620.31 STORAGE FACILITY, PERSONAL
1. The facility shall consist of a permanent structure(s) only; temporary/mobile storage
units, such as storage pods and shipping containers, are prohibited.
2. Individual storage units shall be used for dead storage only. Storage units shall not be
used for retail, commercial, human habitation, office, workshop, studio, hobby or
rehearsal area, manufacturing or processing of goods or repair/service of autos or
equipment. Auctions, garage or estate sales are prohibited.
3. Outdoor storage shall not be allowed in the B-2 District in conjunction with this use.
Outdoor storage may be allowed with a conditional use permit in the M-1 and M-2
districts. Any outdoor storage use shall meet the requirements listed in Section XX.
Principal Use-Specific Standards 9 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017255.v1
173
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
4. The perimeter of the storage facility shall be entirely enclosed by a combination of
buildings and decorative fencing. Chain link, barbed wire or wood privacy fencing shall
not be permitted as decorative material, except as may otherwise be approved by the
City Council.
5. All driveways and parking areas shall have an approved hard surface and allow for
adequate turning radius for fire truck maneuverability and to be maintained throughout
the site.
6. The hours of operation for a self-service storage facility shall be restricted to between
the hours of 6:00 A.M. and 11:00 P.M.
7. Access to the interior of the fenced area shall be available to emergency responders in a
manner to be acceptable to the fire marshal.
620.32 TOWING/IMPOUND ESTABLISHMENT
1. The storage aspect of a towing service operation shall be secondary, in terms of use, to a
principal building that houses a towing office, repair/maintenance facility for towing
fleet, and an interior storage area for a portion of the impounded collection of vehicles.
2. The towing service site shall be located on a street with traffic volumes of less than 1,500
ADT (average daily trips).
3. No storage of impounded or other vehicles associated with the towing service business
shall be parked on street(s) adjacent to the towing service facility.
4. All storage shall be located in the side or rear yard of the towing service facility.
5. All areas where vehicles are to be driven, towed or parked shall be surfaced with either
asphalt or concrete and those parking areas shall have concrete curb and gutter,
approved by the City Engineer, surrounding their perimeter.
6. Areas where stored vehicles are intended to be parked shall be fenced, screened and
adequately lit \[in accordance with the Lighting Chapter\].
7. Parking stalls intended for storage of towed vehicles and towing truck fleet shall be
separated from those required by Code for customers and employees. Employee and
customer stalls may be in the side yard or front yard, but shall not be within the fenced
area intended for towed or impounded vehicles, or the towing fleet.
8. No intercom system shall be used in the open yard area if the edge of the yard is 250
feet or less from an existing residential dwelling in existence at the time of permit
approval.
9. No crushing, dismantling, or salvage of vehicles shall occur on the subject property.
10. All towing operations whose storage yard is within 250 feet of a residential dwelling at
the time of permit issuance, shall be required to have limited hours of yard operation,
similar to the City’s hours of construction.
11. Towing services shall not be located within a multi-tenant industrial complex.
620.33 TRANSPORTATION GARAGE
1. Vehicles shall be licensed and street operable.
2. Vehicles shall be parked on an approved hard surface.
3. Vehicles shall be parked in the side or rear yard only.
4. Vehicles shall be under a gross vehicle weight of 26,000 lbs.
Principal Use-Specific Standards 10 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017255.v1
174
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
5. The parking stalls dedicated for the parking of fleet vehicles shall be in addition to what
code would require for parking stalls on the site.
6. The parking area shall be properly lit, with shielded and downcast lighting and must be
properly secured.
620.34 TRUCKING TERMINAL
1. Any trucking terminal shall have direct access to a collector or higher classification street.
620.35 WAREHOUSE AND DISTRIBUTION FACILITY
1. Any warehouse and distribution facility shall have access to a collector or higher
classification street.
620.36 TELECOMMUNICATIONSTOWER
1. A conditional use permit shall be required for any wireless tower which is located outside
of the O-3 Telecommunications Towers and Facilities District.
Principal Use-Specific Standards 11 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017255.v1
175
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 621AccessoryUse-Specific Standards
621.01 ACCESSORY DWELLING UNIT
1. General Provisions
(a) An accessory dwelling unit shall only be permitted on a lot with a detached single-
family dwelling. No accessory dwelling unit shall be permitted upon a lot on which
more than one residential dwelling is located.
(b) There shall be no more than one accessory dwelling unit permitted per lot.
(c) The accessory dwelling unit shall not be sold or conveyed independently of the
principal residential dwelling and may not be on a separate tax parcel. A parcel with a
principal structure and an ADU may not be subdivided through any means including,
but not limited to, filing of a plat, a waiver of platting, lot split, a common interest
community plat, or a registered land survey.
(d) Either the ADU or the principal dwelling shall be occupied by the property owner.
There must be a restriction recorded against the property requiring owner occupancy
with respect to at least one of the units. A rental license for the non-owner-occupied
unit is required.
(e) The accessory dwelling unit shall contain a minimum of 250 square feet of habitable
space and a maximum of two bedrooms
(f) The exterior appearance of the accessory dwelling unit shall be architecturally
compatible with principal structure’s siding, color schemes, roofing materials, roof
type and roof pitch.
(g) The accessory dwelling unit shall have a separate address from the principal structure
and shall be identified with address numbers assigned by the City.
(h) Accessory dwelling units in combination with their associated principal structure
must conform to Zoning Code requirements for single family dwellings, including but
not limited to setback, height, impervious surface, curb cut and driveway, and
accessory structure standards. At time of permitting, the accessory dwelling unit must
meet current Building, Plumbing, Electrical, Mechanical, and Fire Code provisions
including that there must be fire or emergency vehicle access to the accessory
dwelling unit.
(i) The home and the accessory dwelling unit together must have adequate off-street
parking for any use on the lot. Parking spaces may be garage spaces or paved
outside parking spaces.
2. Accessory Dwelling Unit, attached
(a) An accessory dwelling unit shall be no more than 50 percent of the finished square
footage of the principal structure. Notwithstanding this provision, if the accessory
dwelling unit is completely located on a single floor of a preexisting structure, the
FR520\\21\\1017627.v1
176
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
Community Development Director or their designee may allow increased size in
order to efficiently use all floor area on a single floor.
(b) An attached Accessory Dwelling Unit shall have a separate, locking door.
3. Accessory Dwelling Unit, detached
(a) A detached accessory dwelling unit shall be no more than 50 percent of the finished
square footage of the principal structure.
(b) A detached accessory dwelling unit shall have a water and sewer connection to
directly to the respective utility main within the public right of way, or if direct
connection is impractical, to the existing water and sewer connection at a location on
the service to the principal structure. Utility service shall be in conformance with
building codes and utility provider requirements.
(c) Any exterior stairway which accesses an accessory dwelling unit above the first floor
shall be located in a way to minimize visibility from the street and, to the extent
possible, from neighboring property.
(d) Balconies and decks above the ground floor shall not face an interior side yard or an
interior rear yard not abutting an alley. Rooftop decks for an accessory dwelling unit
are not allowed.
(e) Detached accessory dwelling units shall also comply with the following additional
requirements:
(1) For construction of a new detached building, the accessory dwelling unit shall be
separated from the principal structure by a minimum of five feet; and
(2) The accessory dwelling unit shall be located on a frost-protected foundation.
(f) Accessory dwelling units that are detached from the principal structure shall comply
with the regulations for accessory structures set forth in Section 205.04 (5) of the
Zoning Code (General Provisions for Accessory Buildings & Structures) with the
following exceptions:
(1)Detached accessory dwelling units shall be located a minimum of 10 feet from
any side or rear lot line.
(2) An accessory dwelling unit constructed above a detached garage shall not exceed
21 feet in total height. Detached accessory dwelling units not constructed above
a garage shall comply with the applicable height limit for accessory structures in
the district where they are located.
(3) The footprint of an accessory dwelling unit constructed above a detached garage
shall not be included in the maximum allowable square footage for accessory
structures as specified in Section XX.
621.02 ACCESSORY REPAIR
1. This use shall be accessory to a motor vehicle sales or rental principal use.
2. There shall be no outdoor storage on site, including inoperable or salvage vehicles,
unless otherwise approved through a conditional use permit.
Accessory Use-Specific Standards 2 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017627.v1
177
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
3. All repairs, service activities, and the storage of parts and machines shall be completed
within an enclosed building.
4. All vehicles waiting for repair shall be stored within an enclosed building or in designated
off-street parking spaces.
5. Overnight parking of vehicles shall be inside the building and/or in the side or rear yard,
secured and screened from the public right-of-way.
6. Any required buffer or screening area shall be constructed to screen headlight beams of
motor vehicles on the property from beaming onto adjacent property.
7. All automotive parts, petroleum products, anti-freeze, and hazardous materials shall be
disposed of in accordance with local and state regulations.
8. Business shall obtain an annual business license to operate.
9. There shall be facilities on site for customers to wait while their vehicle is serviced.
621.03 ACCESSORY RETAIL OR SERVICE
1. This use shall be supplemental to and for the convenience of persons employed within
an office or industrial building.
2. The maximum gross floor area occupied by such uses shall not exceed 20 percent of the
total gross floor area of the building.
3. The parking supply shall be in compliance with the requirements of Section 205.17.5., of
the City Code and be sufficient to support full occupancy of the building. Parking
requirements shall be determined by the City for each tenant prior to occupancy.
4. The building owner and/or agent shall be responsible for informing any prospective
tenant that the property is zoned for industrial use.
621.04 ACCESSORY STRUCTURE
1. General Requirements
(a) No accessory structure shall be permitted on any lot prior to the construction of the
principal building.
(b) An accessory structure shall be considered attached to the principal building if it is
connected to the principal building by a covered passageway. Attached accessory
structures shall meet principal use-specific standards, principal structure setbacks and
dimensional requirements.
(c) Any garage, whether attached to, tucked under or detached from the principal
dwelling is considered to be an accessory structure.
(d) Accessory structures shall be architecturally compatible with the existing principal
structure through siding, color schemes, roofing materials, roof type and roof pitch.
(e) All accessory structures must be permanently attached to a foundation or held in
place with approved tie-downs.
(f) Unless otherwise herein specified, no accessory structure shall exceed the size or the
height of the principal structure.
2. Detached Accessory Structure Placement
Accessory Use-Specific Standards 3 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017627.v1
178
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
(a)In all districts, detached accessory structures are permitted only in the side and rear
yard only, subject to the following restrictions:
(1)Accessory structures shall not be any closer than three feet to any lot line or any
adjacent building onthe site.
(2)Any accessory structure on a corner lot where the garage door faces the side
street shall be setback 25 feet from the side street property line, unless otherwise
noted within a zoning district’s regulations(see Figure X).
(3)In a corner side yard, an accessory structure must be located behind the front of
the principal structure.
Figure X
3.Maximum Accessory Structure Size
(a)The size limits in this Sectionshall not apply to lots containing residential uses with
three or more units where detached accessory structures may be required to provide
enclosed parking spaces listed in Chapter XX, maintenance buildings or structures
containing common amenities.
(b)For residential lots 15,000 square feet or less in area:
Accessory Use-Specific Standards44/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017627.v1
179
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
(1) All residential lots shall be permitted to have one garage, either attached or
detached from the residence. No more than two additional detached accessory
structures per lot.
(2) The maximum total square footage footprint of all accessory structures is 1,500
square feet.
(3) Each individual accessory structure shall be smaller in size than the footprint of
the principal structure excluding any attached garage.
(c) For residential lots greater than 15,000 square feet in area:
(1) All residential lots shall be permitted to have one garage, either attached or
detached from the residence. No more than three additional detached accessory
structures per lot.
(2) The maximum total square footage footprint of all accessory structures is 2,000
square feet.
(3) Each individual accessory structure shall be smaller in size than the footprint of
the principal structure excluding any attached garage.
(d) Properties within the O-4 Zoning District that are 4,000 square feet or less in area
shall be limited to a total detached accessory structure size of 500 square feet per
property, in addition to any applicable district standards in Section 614.05.
(e) For any non-residential lot, a maximum of one detached accessory structure for the
storage of goods or equipment is permitted. This structure may be no more than 500
square feet in area.
4. Any accessory structure proposed exceeding the requirements (in square footage or
number of buildings) shall obtain a Conditional Use Permit.
621.05 CAR WASH
1. See Section 620.16 for regulations.
621.06 DAYCARE CENTER
1. Daycare centers shall only be allowed in public or institutional uses such as places of
worship or schools, and shall follow the standards in Section 620.18.
621.07 DRIVE-THROUGH ESTABLISHMENT
1. Vehicle stacking and circulation patterns must not interfere with required parking or
travel along a public right of way
2. A drive-through establishment may be limited in proximity as deemed appropriate by
the City Council so as not to unreasonably interfere with adjacent and nearby uses.
3. Unreasonable Traffic Volume. No Drive-through establishment shall be located on a site
if the probable result of such location would be to unreasonably increase traffic volume
on nearby streets.
4. Size of Lot. No drive-in business or drive-up window shall be located on a lot of less than
24,000 square feet.
Accessory Use-Specific Standards 5 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017627.v1
180
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
5.Electronic Devices. Electronic devices such as loudspeakers or devices, and similar
instruments, shall not be located within 50feet of any adjacent lot line regardless of use
or zoning district.
6.Snow Storage. Adequate area shall be designed for snow storage such that clear visibility
shall be afforded from the property to any public street.
7.Screening. Suitable screening shall be erected along all property lines except those which
are also public right-of-way lines.
8.Access. Access shall be to public streets from at least two points on the subject premises.
A divided entry with a center island may meet the requirements of this provision(See
Figure X).
Figure X
621.08 EV CHARGING
1.Standards in Section 631.07shall apply, in accordance with the use.
621.09 FARMERS MARKET
1.A farmers’ market may be located accessory to an institutional or commercial use.
2.A farmers Market shall meet the requirements for a City-issued Farmers Market permit
per the requirements of Chapter 205, in addition to the following standards:
(a)Shall be a member of the Minnesota Farmers Market Association or other similar
recognized association of farmers markets and meet all of their respective
requirements;
(b)Shall identify a market manager that facilitates the requirements of the City;
Accessory Use-Specific Standards64/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017627.v1
181
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
(c) Shall have General Liability insurance including Products and Completed Operations
coverage with a minimum Limit of Liability of $1,500,000 per occurrence;
(d) Shall have applied for and received all required county and state licenses and have
complied with all applicable City of Fridley regulations and city codes;
(e) A majority of the products sold shall be grown or produced in Minnesota;
(f) The sale of live animals and alcoholic beverages is prohibited;
(g) The location of the event shall have written authorization from the property owner;
(h) An established schedule shall be submitted as to the dates and times of the market;
(i) Any temporary structure used for the farmers market shall be erected and removed
on the day of the event;
(j) A site plan shall be submitted showing tent and vendor locations, vehicle circulation
and parking prior to commencement of event. Site plan to be approved by the
Community Development Director;
(k) A Zoning Permit Application shall be completed, approved and on file with the
Community Development Director prior to commencement of event; providing proof
that all above requirements are being met;
(l) The City reserves their right to revoke any Zoning Permit issued for failure of
compliance with the above requirements. The City will process any such permit
revocation according to the procedures listed in City Code Section 11.08.
(m) All State Building and Fire Code requirements shall be met, including but not limited
to, the requirements for assembly use are met for indoor markets.
621.10 GARAGE SALE
1. No more than three garage sales of no more than three consecutive days per sales event
may be conducted on a property in a 12-month period.
2. Sales are conducted on the owner's property; multiple family sales must be held on the
property of one of the participants.
621.11 HELICOPTER LANDING PAD
1. A helicopter landing pad shall be associated with a hospital.
621.12 HOME OCCUPATION
1. Home occupations shall be carried on entirely within the principal structure.
2. Home occupations are not permitted within a detached or attached accessory building
or garage.
3. The entrance to the space devoted to such occupation shall be within the dwelling. There
shall be no separate entrance into the business area.
4. Employees are restricted to occupants of the dwelling and a maximum of one non-
occupant employee.
Accessory Use-Specific Standards 7 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017627.v1
182
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
5. There shall be no internal or external alterations which involve construction features not
customarily found in dwellings.
6. Mechanical equipment that is not customarily found in a home may not be installed
within the dwelling.
7. Exterior storage of equipment or materials used in the home occupation is prohibited.
8. Parking of commercial vehicles must follow regulations set forth in Section 506.13 of
Fridley City Code.
9.There shall be no additional exterior indication of the home occupation, including
advertising and/or displays of any kind other than the permitted signage set forth in the
Signs Chapter.
10. Parking needs for the home occupation shall not exceed more than two off-street
parking spaces at any given time in addition to the spaces required by the occupants.
11. A home occupation involving teaching is limited to four or fewer students at any given
time.
12. Prohibited activities:
(a) Over the counter retail sales are prohibited except for articles incidental to a
permitted commercial service such as shampoo sold by a barber and sales conducted
by mail or the internet;
(b) Motor vehicle service or repair of any vehicles other than those registered to
residents of the property;
(c) A commercial food service requiring a State license or inspection by a government
entity other than the City;
(d) Activities that generate significant amounts of customer traffic to the premises, in
excess of 10 vehicles per day;
(e) Activities that generate significant amounts of truck traffic to the premises in excess
of three deliveries or pick-ups per week. Deliveries and pick-ups by semi-truck/trailer
shall be prohibited.
(f) A massage therapy business shall be prohibited.
(g) The rental of guest rooms to more than two persons per dwelling unit.
(h) The sale, lease, trade or other transfer of firearms or ammunition by a firearms dealer.
Firearms dealers existing on or before \[effective date\], and in all other respects in
conformance with the provisions of this ordinance, shall be permitted to continue as
nonconforming uses in accordance with Nonconforming Uses and Structures
requirements.
(i) Headquarters or dispatch centers where persons come to the site and are dispatched
to other locations.
(j) Any cannabis business shall be prohibited.
Accessory Use-Specific Standards 8 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017627.v1
183
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
621.13 KEEPING OF BEES, LIVESTOCK, OR POULTRY
1. The use shall comply with the requirements of Chapter 300 Animal Control.
621.14 MOBILE FOOD UNIT
1. Mobile Food Units must comply with the Mobile Food Units Chapter of the Fridley City
Code.
621.15 OUTDOOR DINING
1. Where appropriate and applicable, an outdoor patio shall be permitted in a location
which is the furthest away from any adjacent residential zone or use. In no instance shall
an outdoor patio be located closer than 25 feet from a property legally used, zoned, or
guided for residential use.
2. Hours of operation of an outdoor patio that lies adjacent to a property legally used,
zoned, or guided for residential use shall be limited to no later than 9 pm weekdays and
10 pm weekends.
3.Outdoor dining areas may be incorporated into the front and side yard setbacks up to
five feet from the property line, leaving six feet for the sidewalk.
4.The dining area shall be designed with safety protections that reasonably attempt to
prevent vehicles from encroaching into the dining area.
5.Store locations that serve alcohol must apply for a patio endorsement on their liquor
license pursuant to Chapter 602.26 of the City Code.
621.16 OUTDOOR DISPLAY
1. Outdoor display for a business may take place with an approved zoning permit, in
accordance with Section 650.03, on the same property on which the business is located.
2. Temporary Displays – Contiguous to the Principal Structure
(a) Only items associated with the principal use may be displayed.
(b) The merchandise shall be displayed adjacent to the principal structure in a manner
that does not impede pedestrian or vehicular circulation, or obstruct required
parking spaces.
(c) The merchandise shall not be displayed in the boulevard or on any landscaped area.
(d) If a tent or sign is to be used, structures must comply with applicable permit
requirements.
3. Temporary Displays – Freestanding
(a) Only items associated with the principal use may be displayed.
(b) The merchandise shall be in an area approved on a zoning permit, in a manner that
does not impede pedestrian or vehicular circulation or required parking spaces.
(c) The merchandise shall not be displayed in the boulevard or on any landscaped area.
(d) If a tent or sign is to be used, structures must comply with applicable permit
requirements.
Accessory Use-Specific Standards 9 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017627.v1
184
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
621.17 OUTDOOR SALES
1. A zoning permit, following the procedures in Section 650.03, shall be required for any
sales which are not adjacent to the principal building and for accessory outdoor food
sales which are not associated with a mobile food unit.
2. Outdoor sales areas are to be located on a paved surface immediately adjacent to and
within the dimensions of the building frontage and shall not extend beyond the building
edge.
3. The outdoor sales area shall not interfere with pedestrian walkways, doorways, parking
stalls, drive aisles (including access for emergency services). Five feet is the minimum
width required to maintain pedestrian access.
4. Prior to conducting food sales activities, a license shall be obtained from all appropriate
agencies, including, but not limited to, the Anoka County Health Department, the
Minnesota Department of Agriculture, and the City of Fridley, in accordance with the
requirements of Chapter 32 of the Fridley City Code.
621.18 OUTDOOR STORAGE
1. The outdoor storage area is limited to a maximum size equal to 50% of the principal
building’s footprint. This area must be as designated on a site plan approved with the
CUP and must be located in the side or the rear yard.
2. The materials and equipment kept in the designated outdoor storage area must be fully
screened so as to not be visible from:
(a) A property zoned, guided, or occupied for residential use adjacent to the use.
(b) A public park adjacent to the use.
(c) A public right-of-way, including railroad right-of-way, adjacent to the use.
(d) Any commercial use adjacent to the use.
3. Screening of the outdoor storage area shall be achieved through a combination of
masonry walls, fencing, berming, and landscaping in accordance with Section
205.17.06.G.(1)(a).
4. Materials and equipment stored outside must not exceed 12 feet in height.
5. The outdoor storage area must be a city-approved hard surface and bound on the
perimeter by curb and gutter.
6. Limited outdoor storage shall not permit the outside storage of semi-trucks, semi-
trailers, or heavy construction equipment (off-highway equipment or on-highway
equipment over 26,000 Gross Vehicle Weight).
7. Hazardous chemicals and materials are prohibited from being stored outside.
8. The outdoor storage shall not affect the required amount of parking stalls needed on
site.
9. The location and types of materials to be stored are to be reviewed by the Fire Marshal.
Accessory Use-Specific Standards 10 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017627.v1
185
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
621.19 SACRED COMMUNITY
1. The sacred community, and any micro-units constructed within it, shall meet all the
requirements of Minn. Stats. §327.30, as may be amended. This shall include the
requirement that any sacred community not located on the grounds of a religious
institution’s primary worship location shall be located on a contiguous parcel to that of
the primary worship location.
2. On an annual basis, a certification must be provided which demonstrates that the sacred
community meets the all requirements of Minn. Stats. §327.30, including that the
residents meet the eligibility requirements.
621.20 SHORT-TERM VACATION RENTAL
1.A rental license will be required for all short-term vacation rentals.
2. \[Reserved\]
3. The maximum number of overnight guests will be limited to two times the number of
bedrooms rented plus one.
4. Sufficient parking must be accommodated on the property and meet the minimum
residential parking requirements in Section 631.02, no on-street parking is allowed.
5. The property owner shall register with the city, their name, property address, primary
phone number, email, and supply a secondary contact and telephone number of the
local representative or managing agent for the property that can be reached at anytime.
6. A list of all current and prior stays in each short-term vacation rental shall be maintained.
The owner or registered agent shall make the list available to City staff and/or law
enforcement upon request.
7. The owner must disclose in writing to their guests the rules and regulations
(a) The name, phone number and address of the owner, operating lessee or managing
agent/representative;
(b) The maximum number of guests allowed at the property;
(c) The maximum number of vehicles allowed at the property and where they are to be
parked;
(d) City nuisance ordinances requirement that noise levels be reduced between 10:00
p.m. and 8:00 a.m. and that this will be enforced by the Fridley Police Department;
and
(e) Property rules related to use of outdoor features, such as decks, patios, grills,
recreational fires, saunas and other recreational facilities.
8. The property shall be maintained and free of nuisance. The owner shall ensure that
appropriate recycling and solid waste containers are available for use by guests and shall
not be stored in public view.
621.21 SOLAR ENERGY SYSTEM
1. A conditional use permit shall be required for all ground-mounted solar energy systems
and solar carports. Building-integrated and roof-mounted solar energy systems shall be
permitted by right so long as the standards in this Section are met.
Accessory Use-Specific Standards 11 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017627.v1
186
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
2. Setbacks.
(a) Solar energy systems must meet the accessory structure setback requirements for the
underlying zoning district.
3. Visibility.
(a) Building-integrated and roof-mounted solar energy systems shall be limited to the
following height when oriented at maximum tilt:
(1) No more than 10 inches above a pitched roof.
(2) No more than six feet above a flat roof.
(b) Where visible from the public right-of-way, ground-mounted solar energy systems
shall not exceed 15 feet in height when oriented at maximum tilt.
(c) Solar carports shall not exceed:
4. ((a)) 20 feet in non-residential districts.
5. ((b)) The height of the principal structure or 20 feet, whichever is lower, in residential
districts.
(a) All solar energy systems using a reflector to enhance solar production shall minimize
glare from the reflector affecting nearby properties.
6. Lot coverage.
(a) The total collector area of a ground-mounted solar energy system shall not exceed
half the building footprint of the principal structure unless specifically authorized by
the Conditional Use Permit. This provision shall not apply to solar carports.
7. Landscaping
(a) Solar energy systems shall be integrated onsite to minimize impact to existing
landscaping and continue to meet requirements in Ch 632. Large-scale removal of
mature trees on the site is discouraged. City may set additional restrictions on tree
clearing or require mitigation for cleared trees.
8. Abandoned or Unused Systems.
(a) Abandoned or Unused Solar Energy Systems must be removed within 90 days of the
cessation of operations unless an extension is approved by the Community
Development Director. If an extension is not approved, such Solar Energy Systems
will be considered a public nuisance. Such nuisances may be abated according to the
procedures established in the Abatement of Exterior Nuisances Chapter of the Code.
9. Permit required.
(a) All solar energy systems require a solar electrical permit and building permit.
(b) Applications for building-integrated and roof-mounted solar energy systems shall be
accompanied by scaled horizontal and vertical elevation drawings, an electrical plan,
and roof engineering plan. The drawings must show the location of the system on
the building.
(c) A site plan shall be provided for solar energy systems that require a conditional use
permit. In addition to the materials required for a solar permit in provision (b) above,
the following information shall be provided with the site plan application:
(1) Height, setbacks, lot coverage, and visibility standards as described by this
section.
(2) Any screening or fencing plans;
Accessory Use-Specific Standards 12 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017627.v1
187
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
(3) Drainage plan that complies with the requirements in Chapter 505 Stormwater
Management and Erosion Control;
(4) Ground cover plan; and
(5) Other requirements as requested by the Community Development Director in
accordance with Section 650.02.
621.22 WIND ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM
1. Equipment and associated facilities for generating electric power or devices for
converting wind energy to electrical energy shall be regulated according to M.S. § 216E.
621.23 WIRELESS TELECOMMUNICATIONS FACILITY
1. All standards shall comply in accordance to Section 614.04.
Accessory Use-Specific Standards 13 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017627.v1
188
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 630Performance Standards
630.01 PERFORMANCE STANDARDS FOR ALL DISTRICTS
1. Maintenance.
(a) It shall be the responsibility of a property owner to ensure that:
(1) Exterior improvements, buildings and structures on their property are maintained,
in good repair to maintain their structural integrity including keeping exterior
protective surfaces, walls, foundations and roofs from deterioration and
dilapidation.
(2) Every outdoor wall, foundation and roof of any building or structure shall be
reasonably watertight, weathertight, and rodentproof. Exterior walls shall be
maintained free from extensive cracks, tears or breaks of deteriorated plaster,
stucco, brick, wood or other exterior building material that gives evidence of long
neglect.
(3) A building, structure and their features such as doors, windows, screens, eaves
and soffits shall be deemed to be out of repair if it meets any of the following:
((a)) More than 25 percent of the area of any plane or wall on which the
protective surface paint is blistered, cracked, flaked, rusted, scaled or chalked
away;
((b)) More than 25 percent of the pointing of any brick or stone wall is loose or
has fallen out. Pieces of the wood, metal, or other approved protective cover
are missing;
((c)) More than 25 percent of the area of any door or window has evident
delaminating of wood, discoloration of permanent finish or warping;
((d)) There is a hole on a surface that is one-inch in diameter or larger; or
((e)) Any garage door which fails to close entirely or is missing a panel.
(4) All openings intended for windows and doors, shall have intact windows and
doors installed in said openings.
(5) Gutters and downspouts shall be installed properly and shall be maintained so to
avoid unsightly appearance by virtue of sagging, collapsed sections or missing
pieces.
(6) Every yard with site elements including but not limited to fences, walkways, steps,
driveways and landscaping shall be maintained in a well-kept condition and meet
all the standards of this Chapter.
(7) Every exterior stairway of a building and every porch, deck or balcony shall be
kept in a safe condition and sound repair. Every exterior stairway, step, stoop,
porch and balcony shall be free of deterioration and/or rotting supports.
Performance Standards 1 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017988.v1
189
Jufn!3/
2. Essential Services
(a) Connection is required on each lot served by City sanitary sewer.
(b) Connection is required on each lot served by a City water line.
3. Drainage and Grading Requirements.
(a) For all properties, a finished ground grade shall be established such that natural
drainage away from all buildings is provided. The following minimum criteria shall
apply:
(1) The minimum elevation of finished grade shall comply with the State Building
Code requirements;
(2) The City may specify a minimum finished ground grade for any structure in order
to allow proper drainage and a minimum top of footing elevation to allow for
connection to City utilities;
(3) Grading shall meet all other requirements of Chapter 505, Stormwater
Management and Erosion Control; and
(4) For non-residential properties, the minimum elevation of finished grade shall not
be less than one-fourth inch rise per horizontal foot of setback measured from
curb grade.
630.02 ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY
1. In order to assure compliance with these standards, the City may require the owner or
operator of any use to conduct such investigations and tests as may be required to show
adherence to the standards.
(a) Any investigations and tests shall be carried out by an independent testing
organization agreed upon by all parties concerned or, if after a 30 days’ notice, there
is failure to agree, an independent testing organization shall be selected by the City.
(b) The costs incurred in having such investigations or tests conducted shall be shared
equally by the owner or operator and the City.
(c) If the investigation and testing disclose noncompliance with these standards, the
entire cost shall be paid by the owner or operator.
(d) This procedure shall not preclude the City from making any tests and investigations it
finds appropriate to determine compliance with these standards.
(e) Any property that is in violation of any of this section shall be given one year from
the date of written notification by the City or any other regulatory agency to abate
the violation. If the pollution is determined to be hazardous to any person, animal or
plant life, the time of one year shall be reduced to a reasonable limit.
(f) If action is not taken to abate the condition during the specified time, the use shall
not be allowed to continue operation within the City of Fridley.
Performance Standards 2 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017988.v1
190
Jufn!3/
630.03 NUISANCES
1. Enclosure of Uses. All principal, accessory, and temporary uses must be established,
operated and maintained within a completely enclosed structure, unless specifically
allowed by this code, or it shall be considered a nuisance.
2. Prohibited Activities and Nuisances in All Districts
(a) Explosives. No activities involving the storage, utilization or manufacture of materials
or products such as TNT, dynamite or other explosives which could detonate shall be
permitted except such as are specifically allowed by MInnesota Statutes Section
624.20 Fireworks.
(b) Radiation and Electrical Emissions. No activities shall be permitted that emit
dangerous radioactivity beyond enclosed areas. There shall be no electrical
disturbance (except those from domestic household appliances) adversely affecting
the operation of any equipment other than that of the creator of such disturbance
beyond the property line.
(c) No noise, odors, vibration, smoke, air pollution, liquid or solid wastes, heat, glare,
dust or other such adverse influences from uses shall be permitted in any district that
have an unreasonable effect upon adjacent or nearby property. Minimum standards
shall be as follows:
(1) Waste: Waste materials, refuse or garbage in all districts shall be contained in
closed containers as required under the chapter entitled “Solid Waste
Management” of the Fridley City Code. Waste disposal shall not be dangerous to
public health and safety, nor damage public waste transmission or disposal
facilities. Sanitary landfills shall be prohibited within the City limits.
(2) Noise: The noise standards shall comply with the Chapter entitled “Noise” of the
Fridley City Code.
(3) Smoke and Odors: The smoke and odor standards shall comply with Minnesota
Statute Chapter116 except for woodburning devices used for supplemental heat,
as regulated in Chapter 316 Fire Prevention.
ir Pollution and Dust: The air pollution and dust standards shall comply with
(4) A
Minnesota Statute Chapter116.
(5) Vibration
((a)) Any vibration beyond the property line discernible to the human sense or
feeling for three minutes or more of duration in any one hour or any vibration
producing an acceleration of more than 0.1 G’s or resulting in any
combination of amplitudes and frequencies beyond the “safe” range of Table
7, United States Department of the Interior, Bureau of Mines Bulletin No. 442,
“Seismic Effects of Quarry Blasting”, on any structure shall be prohibited.
((b)) Uses which may cause vibration shall meet all applicable state and federal
laws, local ordinances and policies.
Performance Standards 3 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017988.v1
191
Jufn!3/
(6) Toxic or Noxious Matter: No use shall, for any period of time, deposit or
discharge toxic or noxious matter of such concentration as to be detrimental to
or endanger the public health, safety, comfort or welfare or cause injury or
damage to property or businesses.
(7)Erosion. No erosion shall be permitted onto neighboring properties or into
natural waterways. A property owner shall not permit the property to be used or
built on without applying all such reasonable measures as may be required to
prevent wind or water erosion. The City may require reasonable measures of a
property owner or developer to meet specific land alterations and stormwater
requirements to prevent wind or water erosion, as specified in the Stormwater
Management and Erosion Control Chapter of the Fridley City Code.
(8) Water Pollution. The discharge of raw sewage, industrial wastes or other
pollutants into the waterways or lakes of the City shall be subject to the
regulations within the Stormwater Management and Erosion Control Chapter of
the Fridley City Code.
Performance Standards 4 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1017988.v1
192
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 631Off-Street Parking
631.01 GENERAL PARKING STANDARDS
1. Change in Use. Each time there is a change in use on a property, a site plan to
demonstrate that there is sufficient parking and loading spaces as required by this
Chapter shall be reviewed and approved as required by Chapter 650.03.
2. Use of Space. Required parking or loading spaces shall not be used for snow storage,
permanent storage of goods or equipment or for vehicles that are inoperable or for sale
or rent.
3. All driveways, parking areas, and loading docks shall be surfaced with blacktop, concrete,
or other hard surface material approved by the City.
4. Outdoor Vehicle Parking
(a) Outdoor vehicle parking shall be permitted provided that the following standards are
met:
(1) Meets the provision in Section 631.01(3).
(2) Vehicles parked or stored on private property within any district shall be operable
and registered to the business, occupants or guests.
(3) Parking shall be prohibited in loading areas.
(b) Automotive repair uses shall be allowed to have outdoor vehicle parking as long as
the Use Specific Standards of Chapter 620 are met.
631.02 MINIMUM PARKING SPACES REQUIRED
1. Calculating Spaces
(a) Calculations resulting in any fraction less than one-half shall be disregarded and any
fraction of one-half or more shall be rounded up to one additional space.
(b) The term “floor area” for the purpose of calculating the number of off-street parking
spaces required shall be determined on the basis of the exterior floor area
dimensions of the building structure or use, multiplied by the number of floors,
minus 10 percent.
(c) Should a building or structure contain two or more types of uses, each use should be
calculated separately for determining the off-street parking spaces required.
2. The public right-of-way portion of a driveway cannot be used to meet the minimum
parking requirements of a property.
3. The minimum number of off-street parking spaces required shall be provided and
maintained as follows:
Use Minimum Parking Spaces Required
Residential
FR520\\21\\1017995.v1
193
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
Use Minimum Parking Spaces Required
Family Living
Dwelling, one unit detached2 enclosed spaces per dwelling unit
Dwelling, two unit 2 enclosed spaces per dwelling unit
Dwelling, three-to six -unit1.5spacesfor a studio or 1 bedroom unit
Plus 0.5 space for each additional bedroom per
dwelling unit
Dwelling, attached townhouse 2spaces per unit plus 1 guest space for every 5
or rowhouse units
Dwelling, apartment1.5 spacesfor a studio or 1 bedroom unit
Plus 0.5 space for each additional bedroom per
dwelling unit
Manufactured home park 2 spaces per dwelling unit
Group Living
Care facility1 space per 3 client rooms/units
Assisted living facility ½ space per client rooms/unit
Continuum of care facility Parking must be provided to meet each use
included in the facility.
Residential care facility, 1 space per 3 client rooms, including at least 1
licensed in-home enclosed space
Senior independent living1 spaceper studio or 1 bedroom unit;
1.25 per 2-bedroom unit;
2 per 3+ bedroom units;
Plus 1 guest space per 5 units
50% of the total spaces shall be enclosed
Lodging
Hotel or motel1.25 per guest room. Additional facilities
(restaurant, assembly hall, etc.) shall be calculated
according to its use within this table and added to
total
Community Services
Off-Street Parking 2 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017995.v1
194
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
Use Minimum Parking Spaces Required
Clinic3 spaces per treatment room
Commercial recreation, 50 spaces per field or sports court plus 1 space per
outdoor 3 fixed seats for spectator area
Daycare center1 space per classroom
Plus 1 space per 5 students/clients and any
additional spaces necessary to accommodate the
parking of vans and buses used for client transport
by the school or center
Place of assembly use, such as 1 space per every 4 persons of the maximum
funeral home, museum/art building occupancy
gallery, public building or use,
indoor commercial recreation,
and theater, music, or
performance space
School, college/vocational1 space per classroom
Plus 1 space for each 3-student capacity.
Additional spaces shall be provided for assembly
uses at a rate of 1 space per every 4 persons of the
maximum building occupancy
Public or private school, 1 space per classroom
elementary or middle
Plus 1 space for each 8-student capacity and any
additional spaces necessary to accommodate the
parking of vans and buses used for client transport
by the school or center
Public or private school, 1 space per classroom
secondary
Plus 1 space for each 3-student capacity and any
additional spaces necessary to accommodate the
parking of vans and buses used for client transport
by the school or center
Commercial
Mixed use buildingParking must be provided to meet each use
included in the facility
Retail, Food or Beverage
Sales and Services
Liquor store 1 per 300 SF of floor area
Restaurant, including brewpub 1 space per every 4 persons of the maximum
building occupancy
Off-Street Parking 3 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017995.v1
195
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
Use Minimum Parking Spaces Required
Animal boarding, shelter, or 1 per 300 SF of floor area used for office space
daycare center
Animal veterinary clinic or 1 per 400 SF of floor area
hospital
Automotive fuel station/ 1 space per 2 fuel pumps. Space adjacent to fuel
convenience store pumps does not count toward this requirement
Automotive repair (minor and 1 per 300 SF of floor area
major)
Plus 2 per repair bay
Retail uses, such as commercial 1 per 300 SF of floor area
centers, standalone stores and
pawn shop
Garden center/nursery1 per 300 SF of retail area
Plus 1 space per 2,000 SF outdoor display area
Motor vehicle sales or rental 1 space per 500 SF of indoor showroom
Plus 1 space for each 3,000 SF of outdoor storage
area
Off-site service business 1 space per 300 SF of office space
Plus 1 space for each company-owned vehicle
stored on-site
Outdoor sales 1 space per 300 SF of office space
Plus 1 space for each 3,000 SF of outdoor storage
area
Business & Technical
Services
Financial institution1 space per 300 SF floor area
Laboratory 1 space per 300 SF floor area
Office 1 space per 300 SF floor area
Industrial
Automobile recycling center 1 space per 300 SF of office space
Plus 1 space for each 3,000 SF of indoor/outdoor
storage area
Brewery, winery or distillery 1 space for every four persons per maximum
building occupancy
Construction contractor yard 1 space per 300 SF of office, sales, or display area
Off-Street Parking 4 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017995.v1
196
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
Use Minimum Parking Spaces Required
Plus 1 space per 3,000 SF (indoor/outdoor) storage
area
Makerspace or studio 1 space per 500 SF of indoor showroom
Plus 1 space for each 3,000 SF of outdoor storage
or sales lot
Manufacturing 1 space per 800 SF
Warehouse and distribution 1 space per 2,000 SF
facility
Wholesale establishment 1 space per 2,000 SF
Transportation and Utilities
Transportation garage1 space for every 2 employees
Plus 1 space for each company-owned vehicle
stored on-site
Trucking terminal 1 space per 300 SF of office space
Plus 1 space for each 3,000 SF of indoor/outdoor
storage area
4. Accessible parking spaces shall be provided in accordance with Minnesota Rules, Chapter
1341.
5. Parking spaces within garages or ramps shall count towards minimum parking
requirements.
6. Additional Parking. When the provisions for parking spaces required for specific district
or uses are inadequate on-site, the City may require additional off-street parking to be
provided through another mechanism (e.g. off-site or shared parking).
7. Reduction of Parking.
(a) Reduction of Existing Spaces. No parking or loading spaces existing upon the
effective date of this Chapter shall subsequently be reduced below the requirements
unless said number of spaces exceeds the requirement set forth herein.
(b) Proof of Parking. The Community Development Director, or their designee may allow
a reduction in the minimum parking spaces required if the following conditions are
met:
(1) A scaled parking plan is submitted which demonstrates that the site can comply
with the total parking requirements of this Chapter. The parking plan shall clearly
delineate where the proof of parking area is located and how the area will be
curbed and landscaped while not in use for parking.
Off-Street Parking 5 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017995.v1
197
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
(2) The proof of parking area shall not be used to satisfy any other requirements of
zoning, including landscaping or screening, and shall not be located in an area
occupied by a building.
(3) The City may, at any time in its sole discretion, require that the proof of parking
area be paved and striped to provide required parking spaces on the site.
(4) The City may require the owner to enter into a proof of parking agreement to be
filed at Anoka County, specifying the requirements and restrictions and stating
that the owner, developer and successor shall be responsible for making
improvements to meet the Code at the time the City requires such action.
(c) Shared Parking. Off-street parking facilities may be provided collectively for more
than one structure or use, if the following conditions are met:
(1) The proposed shared parking is within 500 feet of the use(s) it will serve.
(2) It is demonstrated that because of the hours, size and mode of operation of the
respective uses, there will be an adequate amount of parking available to each
use during its primary hours of operation to meet the needs of such use.
(3) Total required parking spaces shall be based on the combined peak requirement
and shall not be fewer than the minimum requirements for the use which
requires the most parking.
(4) The shared use of the parking facilities shall be protected by an agreement that
recognizes all the users and the lots on which the parking facility satisfies the
shared parking requirements of this section. The agreement shall contain all joint
user conditions and shall grant an access easement for parking on the shared
principal use lots. The manner of execution and content of such agreement shall
be approved by the city and the agreement document shall be filed at the
county. Such agreement shall be provided prior to issuance of building or site
permits.
631.03 PARKING FACILITY DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
1. This section shall apply to all parking facilities with four or more stalls.
2. Parking stalls
(a) Parking stalls within parking structures may be reduced to a minimum of 8.5 feet
wide and 18 feet deep.
(b) The minimum stall depth for a parking space may be reduced equal to the amount of
overhang, up to two feet.
3. Parking drive aisles
(a) Parking drive aisles for one-way traffic shall be a minimum of 18 feet wide. Two-way
traffic shall be a minimum of 24 feet wide. (See Figure X)
Figure X
Off-Street Parking 6 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017995.v1
198
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
4.All parking areas shall be:
(a)No closer than 20feet from any street right of way.
(b)No closer than five feet from any side lot line, except for a driveshared with the
adjacent lot.
(c)No closer than five feet from any rear lot line, including alleys.Unless the property is
located within the M-O District,then the rear lot line setback adjacent to an alley,
maybe zero feet.
(d)No closer than five feet toany building.
(e)All stalls shall be striped.
5.Curbing
(a)The entire perimeter of all parking areas, access driveways, truck loading spaces or
other hard surface areas that handle motor vehicle traffic shall be curbed in
accordance with curbing specifications on file at the City.
(b)Curbing shall be required around safety islands.
(c)The City may exempt curbing:
(1)Where the City has approved future expansion.
(2)Where the City has approved storm water features like natural swales or rain
gardens.
(3)Where other circumstances exist to satisfy the curbing requirements.
Off-Street Parking74/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017995.v1
199
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
6. A continuous internal pedestrian walkway shall be provided from any perimeter public
sidewalk or trail to each of the following connections. More than one walkway may be
needed based upon specific site conditions:
(a) Entrances to each building on the site;
(b) Public sidewalks, walkways, paths or trails on adjacent properties that extend to the
boundaries shared with the subject development;
(c) Public sidewalks along the perimeter streets adjacent to the development;
(d) Adjacent public park, trail or other public or civic use; and
(e) Adjacent public transit station areas, transit stops, park and ride facilities, or other
transit facilities.
7. Safety signs, markings and traffic control devices may be required to promote vehicular
and pedestrian safety.
8. All driveways and parking areas shall be graded according to a drainage plan that has
been approved by the City.
631.04 RESIDENTIAL PARKING REQUIREMENTS
1. One- and Two-Unit Dwelling Parking Requirements
(a) General Provisions.
(1) Vehicle parking shall only be located on a driveway or hard-surfaced parking
space approved by the City.
(2) Paved driveways and any associated off-street parking areas within the front yard,
shall not occupy more than 50 percent of the area between the building front
yard setback and the property line.
(3) Driveways shall be set back at minimum three feet from any side or rear property
line.
(4) The maximum slope (grade) on a residential driveway shall not exceed 10
percent.
(b) Garage Requirements
(1) R-1, R-2, & R-H Districts
((a)) A two-stall garage is required for each principal dwelling unit. Two off-
street parking spaces are required for an Accessory Dwelling Unit.
2. O-8 Transit Oriented Development Parking Requirements
(1) Reduction of the parking stall dimensions and number of parking stalls required
in the underlying zoning district may be allowed due to the nature of the
proposed use.
(2) The number of required parking stalls may be reduced by no more than 50
percent of the minimum required in the underlying zoning district for the
proposed use.
Off-Street Parking 8 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017995.v1
200
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
(3) The maximum number of parking stalls shall not exceed 120 percent of the
minimum number of parking stalls required by the use in the underlying zoning
district. This maximum provision shall not apply to park-and-ride or other transit
facilities.
(4) Off-street surface parking is not permitted in the front yard. Parking may be
located in the rear or side yard.
631.05 LOADING FACILITIES
1. Any use which requires receiving or distributing of materials shall provide adequate
space for off-street loading, adhering to the following requirements:
(a) Loading facilities shall be located on the same lot as the use served.
(b) The space needed for the loading docks shall be adequate to handle the loading and
unloading needs of the use without obstructing the public right-of-way.
(c) Loading facilities shall be on an impervious surface located in the rear or side yard of
the property.
(d) Loading facilities shall comply with the applicable screening standards in Chapter
635.
(e) Loading facilities shall not to be used for the storage of goods or inoperable vehicles,
or included as part of meeting the minimum off-street parking requirements.
(f) Within Industrial districts, no loading docks on corner lots across from any residential
district shall face the public right-of-way.
631.06 DRIVEWAY REQUIREMENTS
1. Permit Required. Alterations to an existing driveway requires approval of a driveway
permit from the City and shall meet the following requirements.
(a) General Requirements:
(1) In the R-1 and R-H districts, the maximum width of a driveway at the property
line is 26 feet (See Figure X)
Figure X
Off-Street Parking 9 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017995.v1
201
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
(2)In the R-2 and R-3 districts, the maximum width of a driveway at the property line
is 32 feet for all driveways on the site combined.
(3)The curb opening, excluding the entrance radii, may be at maximum four feet
wider than the driveway at the property line.
(b)For one-and two-unit dwellings:
(1)Driveways shall be setback 35feet at minimum from the intersection of streets
on a corner lot.
(2)Only corner lots may have two driveways.Each driveway must meet the minimum
35-foot corner intersection setback.
(c)For parking areas in any district with four or more stalls:
(1)The edge of the curb opening to a parking area shall not be closer to the nearest
portion of a street right of way intersection than 75 feet or two thirds of the lot
width, whichever is smaller.
631.07 ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING STATIONS(EVCS)REQUIREMENTS
1.Electric vehiclechargingstations are allowed in all zoning districts.
2.Minimum Number of Required EVCS.
(a)A Level 1 or higher wall plug shall be required for charging an electric vehicle in one
unit detached or two-unitdwellings.
Off-Street Parking104/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017995.v1
202
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
(b) For residential developments of 3 or more units with new parking areas, adding more
than 25 percent of additional parking spaces to existing parking areas, and existing
parking areas being fully reconstructed by more than 25 percent of the parking area
are subject to the standards of Table X:
Minimum
Required Minimum
Number Of Installed Required EV-Additional
Parking Spaces EV Ready Parking Requirements
Charging Spaces
Stations
5% Level 1 20% Level 1 or
1 to 19
or higher higher
At least one
20% Level 1 or
accessible parking
5% Level 1 higher plus at
20-49 with access to an
or higher least one Level
installed EV
2 or higher
Charger
5% Level 1
At least one
or higher 20% Level 1 or
accessible parking
plus at higher plus at
50 or more with access to an
least one least five Level 2
installed EV
Level 2 or or higher
Charger
higher
(c) If calculation results in a fraction, the next higher whole number shall be used.
(d) For existing parking areas that are expanded or reconstructed (per Section X) by
more than 25 percent, EVCS shall be provided at the minimum quantities required for
the prorated number of parking spaces in the area of expansion or improvement.
(e) Accessible Parking Spaces. An EVCS will be considered accessible if it can serve as an
accessible parking space as defined and required by the ADA. It is not necessary to
designate the EVCS exclusively for the use of vehicles parked in the accessible
parking space and it shall not count toward required ADA parking requirements.
(f) Reductions to EVCS requirements.
(1) This number may be reduced by the Community Development Director, or their
designee if proof can be provided that:
((a)) Such spaces will not be used.
((b)) The cost of installing the Electric Vehicle Supply Equipment (EVSE)
required by this Chapter exceeds five percent of the total project cost; or
Off-Street Parking 11 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017995.v1
203
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
((c)) It is unfeasible to provide sufficient electrical capacity at the site to power
the EVSE.
3. Electric Vehicle Charging Spaces and EVSE shall be designed and installed to meet the
following minimum design requirements:
(a) EVSE must be in a parking island; mounted to an adjacent pedestal, wall or similar
structure. Free standing EVSE shall be protected by bollards, structures or curb.
(b) EVSE may be located adjacent to designated parking spaces in a garage or parking
lot as long as the devices do not encroach into the required dimensions of the
parking space (length, width, and height clearances).
(c) EVSE shall be set back at least three feet from any property line. However, upon
written request from the property owner, the Community Development Director, or
their designee may reduce or rescind this setback requirement for shared access
agreements or pursuant to a finding of necessity and public convenience.
(d) Where EVSE is located within three feet of the public right-of-way, the location must
be approved by the Director of Public Works. EVSE may be in the right-of-way, with
permission from the Director of Public Works and issuance of a Right-of-Way Permit.
(e) EVSE shall be designed and located so as not impede pedestrian travel. Cords must
be retractable or hung sufficiently above any pedestrian surface when not in use and
shall not extend across sidewalks or trails during charging.
(f) EVSE must be installed per manufacturer specification and must comply with all
applicable building codes and relevant Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
requirements.
(g) Any EVSE in single-family or two-family residential zoning district shall be stored on
the exterior wall of the home, in the garage, or on a freestanding pole with footing
adjacent to the parking area.
(h) Any EVSE with a Charging Level 2 or Level 3 located inside a structure with three or
more units must be approved by the Fire Marshal or their designee.
(i) EVSE shall be maintained in all respects.
(1) The exterior of the station shall be maintained in good condition including free of
any rust.
(2) The manufacturer or specialist contact information shall be provided on any Level
2 or Level 3 EVSE for reporting problems with the equipment or access to it.
(3) EVSE shall remain functional at all times. When an EVSE is not operational for 30
consecutive days, it shall be removed or have a repair plan approved by the
Community Development Director, or their designee. If applicable, a replacement
may be required for compliance with Table X.
631.08 BICYCLE PARKING REQUIREMENTS
1. All dwellings with three or more units and all non-residential uses shall provide at least
one bicycle facility for any new development, building addition that adds more than 25
Off-Street Parking 12 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017995.v1
204
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
percent to the building square footage, or improvement to the parking lot that adds
more than 25 percent of additional parking spaces.
2. Additional bicycle parking shall be provided at two bike spaces bicycle space per 20
automobile spaces.
3. All bicycle rack design shall be either of an inverted “U” or post and ring design; or as
approved by the Community Development Director as providing a similar level of
security.
4. All bicycle racks or lockers must be securely anchored to the ground or building
structure on a level paved surface.
5. Bicycle racks shall be placed near building entrances, within a view of each business front
entrance, generally within 50 feet. Adjoining businesses may share common bicycle
parking areas.
6. Bicycle racks shall be located to avoid conflicts with pedestrians.
7. Sufficient lighting shall be provided to illuminate the bicycle facilities at night.
Off-Street Parking 13 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1017995.v1
205
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 632Landscaping
632.01 PURPOSE
1. The City recognizes the health, safety, aesthetic, ecological and economic value
of landscaping and screening. The provisions of this section are intended to:
(a) Add visual interest to open spaces and blank facades;
(b) Prevent soil erosion and sedimentation;
(c) Improve air quality;
(d) Reduce noise pollution;
(e) Conserve energy through windbreaks and shading;
(f) Increase property values;
(g) Protect privacy by maintaining and establishing buffers between conflicting land
uses; and
(h) Provide habitat for wildlife.
632.02 GENERAL PROVISIONS
1. All open areas of any site, except for areas used for parking, driveways or storage, shall
be sodded, seeded or have ground cover.
2. It shall be the owner's responsibility to see that all required landscaping is maintained in
a neat and healthful condition. This requirement runs with the land and is binding on all
future property owners.
3. All uses shall provide adequate watering service to yard areas for the maintenance of
landscaping.
4. Landscaping Materials.
(a) Grass and ground cover.
(1) Ground cover shall be planted in such a manner as to present a finished
appearance and reasonably complete coverage within 12 months after planting,
with proper erosion control during plant establishment period. An exception to
this is undisturbed areas containing natural vegetation which can be maintained,
if free of foreign and noxious materials.
(2) Acceptable ground covers are sod, seed or other organic material, including
native plantings. The use of rock and bark mulch shall be limited to areas around
other vegetation (i.e. shrubs) and shall be contained by edging.
(3) Artificial turf may be used as a ground cover so long as it is professionally
installed, documented to be permeable, and maintained as permeable over its
lifespan.
5. Plant Diversity
Landscaping1 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018357.v1
206
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
(a) For properties required to plant or replace five or more trees, no single genus may
comprise more than 20 percent and no single species may comprise more than 10
percent of the required landscaping.
(b) For properties required to plant or replace fewer than five trees, at least two different
species must be planted.
6. Minimum Plant Size. All plants shall meet the minimum size requirements listed in Table
XX at the time of installation/planting.
Table XX.
Plant Type Minimum Size at Installation
Overstory deciduous tree2.5 caliper inch
Ornamental tree 1.5 caliper inch
Coniferous tree6 feet tall
7. Slopes. Final slope grades steeper than 3:1 shall not be permitted without City approval
or treatment such as terracing or retaining walls.
8. Payment in Lieu
(a) If it is not feasible to meet the landscaping requirements of the underlying zoning
district, the City Council may approve a monetary payment per fees established in
the “Fees” Chapter for the purpose of funding landscaping amenities within the City.
9. Plantings shall occur within six months of issuance of a certificate of occupancy. If
occupancy occurs prior to the planting of trees, a letter of credit, cash escrow or other
financial guarantee acceptable to the City in an amount determined by the City may be
posted for landscaping installation.
632.03 ONE- AND TWO-UNIT RESIDENTIAL LANDSCAPING REQUIREMENTS
1. Applicability. Provision of landscaping and tree plantings shall be required for the
following:
(a) New construction or reconstruction of a principal structure; or
(b) Construction that results in a 100 percent or more of an increase in building footprint
of a principal structure.
2. Planting requirements.
(a) At minimum, three overstory deciduous or coniferous trees shall be required to be
installed per lots of 9,000 square feet or more. Lots smaller than 9,000 square feet
shall install two trees at minimum.
(b) No more than one required tree may be substituted with two ornamental trees.
(c) At least one tree must be located in the front yard.
(d) Sodding and landscaping shall extend across the entire front and side yards,
including the boulevard.
(e) All plantings shall meet the minimum size requirements in Table XX.
Landscaping2 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018357.v1
207
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
632.04 LANDSCAPE REQUIREMENTSFOR ALL OTHER USES
1. Landscaping Plans
(a) A landscape plan shall be submitted to and approved by the City prior to issuance of
a building permit or land use approval for the following types of developments:
(1) All new multi-unit residential and non-residential development requiring a
building permit.
(2) Existing multi-unit residential and non-residential development if one or more of
the following applies:
((a)) An expansion or alteration that changes 25 percent or more of the gross
floor area of the principal building.
((b)) Construction of new parking areas in excess of four stalls.
((c)) Construction of additional loading docks.
(3) Small addition. When an addition is proposed that would increase total floor
area on a site by less than 25 percent, but would physically impact
existing landscaping, a modified landscape plan for the portion of the site
affected by the addition, demonstrating compliance with the requirements of this
section, must be submitted for approval.
(4) If full compliance cannot be achieved due to site constraints, partial compliance
as determined by the City shall be enforced.
(b) A landscape plan shall not be required for the following:
(1) Construction of a single-unit or two-unit dwelling (see section XX).
(2) Routine replacement of existing materials or the installation of new materials
when not associated with a building project.
(c) Landscape plans shall provide sufficient detail to demonstrate compliance with
requirements and be prepared by a certified landscape architect or similar
professional to include the following information:
(1) Location, size, quantity (number or square footage) and genus of all existing and
proposed plantings.
(2) Methods for protecting existing trees and other landscape areas during
alterations.
(3) Seeding, sodding and ground cover materials.
(4) A plant schedule depicting height and spread of each plant type at the time of
planting and at the time of maturity. The plant schedule shall acknowledge that
expected maturity size may differ based on the setting in which the tree is
planted.
(5) All existing and proposed features such as buildings, structures, parking areas,
pervious and impervious pavement, signs, fences, walls, enclosures, other natural
Landscaping3 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018357.v1
208
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
features, grading, property lines, easements, utilities and driveways shall be
clearly shown on the plan.
(6) Specifications for the installation process, irrigation and maintenance.
(7) Provisions for snow storage.
((a)) Snow storage should not be located in an area that damages required
landscaping.
((b)) Space for snow storage is recommended to be located in the rear yard.
((c)) Vegetation planted in snow storage areas should be of a type capable of
withstanding the salt and chemicals associated with snow removal.
((d))Deicer used in snow removal and storage shall follow the requirements of
Chapter 504 Winter Maintenance.
((e)) Snow storage areas must be located to preserve site circulation and
visibility.
2. Perimeter Landscaping Standards.
(a) In order to achieve landscaping which is appropriate in scale with the size of a
building and site, the following minimum standards apply:
(1) One overstory deciduous or coniferous tree for every 1,500 square feet of the
principal building footprint.
((a)) A minimum of 30 percent of the trees required shall be coniferous.
((b)) Two ornamental trees may be substituted for every one overstory
deciduous shade tree. In no case shall ornamental trees exceed 50 percent of
the required number of trees.
(2) For every 50 linear feet of principal building abutting a public street, at least one
tree shall be provided in the corresponding side or front yard (see Figure X).
Credit for existing trees as specified in Section XX below may only be applied to
this requirement if the trees are located in the corresponding yard.
(3)All buildings shall have foundation plantings on building sides facing a public
street.
Figure X
Landscaping4 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018357.v1
209
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
3.Interior Parking Lot Landscaping Standards.
(a)Minimum landscapingisrequiredin the following situations:
(1)Any new parking lot with at least 15 surface parking spaces shall provide at least
one overstory deciduous or ornamental tree for every 15 parking spaces.
(2)A parking lot expansion with more than 45stallsshall provide at least one
overstory deciduous or ornamental tree for every 15 surface parking spaces.
(3)No additional landscaping shall be required for striping or restriping of existing
parking lots.
(b)Trees required for parking lot landscaping may not be used to satisfy the landscaping
requirements in Section XXabove.
(c)Required trees shall be reasonably distributed throughout the parking area in
landscape islands, landscape medians or within 10 feet of the perimeter of the
parking area in order to provide shading and break up the expanses of paved areas
(d)Any landscape islandor median shallbe a minimum of eight feet in width and
providea minimum of 400 square feet in area. Islands or medians with a tree shall
include a minimum soil volume of 600 cubic feet per tree. Soil volume may be
reduced to 400 cubic feet per tree if trees share a connected planting area.(See
Figure X)
Landscaping54/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018357.v1
210
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
Figure X
(e)Landscaped areas shall be provided with deciduous shade treesorornamental trees
plus ground cover, mulchor shrubbery.
(f)Parking area landscaping shall be contained in planting beds bordered by a curb,
unless the area serves as a stormwater treatment facility, as defined inSection X.
4.Credit for Existing Trees
(a)The total number of required new overstory treesfor perimeter landscapingmay be
reduced by the retention of existing overstory trees provided that the following
conditions are satisfied:
(1)Such trees are healthyandof an appropriatenon-invasivespecies, as identified in
the Minnesota Department of Agriculture’sNoxious Weed list and Department of
Natural Resources’ List of Invasive Non-native Plants.
(2)Such trees are eightinches or greater in calipermeasured 12inches from soil
level.
(3)For each existing tree meeting the requirement, two required trees in the same
yard as the existing tree, as required in Section Dabove, may be exempted.
(4)Proper precautions to protect trees during development shall be indicated on
grading plans submitted for plan review. Such precautions are outlined in Section
J.Thecost of theseprecautions shall be included in the landscape security.
5.Irrigation
(a)All landscaped areas, including parking area islands, must be equipped with an
underground, automatic irrigation system or an alternative.
(b)An alternative plan may include, but is not limited to, rain gardens, closed rain barrels
or greywater systems. Any alternative system must ensure that landscaping will be
provided with adequate irrigation.
Landscaping64/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018357.v1
211
Jufn!3/
Fridley Code Update
632.05 INSTALLATION
1. The following standards shall be met when installing the required landscaping:
(a) Plant materials shall be located to maintain reasonable access to all utilities.
(b) Sodded areas on slopes shall be staked.
(c) Seeded areas shall be mulched with straw to prevent erosion. Hydro mulching is
acceptable.
(d) Plantings shall not obstruct the vision safety zone, as depicted in Chapter X.
(e)No plant materials reaching a mature height of 20feet or more shall be planted
within a 25-foot lineal path of the centerline of an overhead power line that is not the
service line to the house.
2. The applicant shall install all landscape materials within one year.
3. The City shall retain a cash escrow or a letter of credit, as required in Section 205.05.06.A.
(3) of the zoning code for one growing season after the installation of landscape
materials is completed.
632.06 MAINTENANCE
1. All lots, tracts or parcels shall be properly maintained in an orderly manner free of litter
and junk. (Ref. Ord. 960)
2. The property owner shall be responsible for replacement of any required trees, ground
cover and sodding which have died or been removed.
3. Any time a tree is removed from a multi-unit residential, commercial or industrial
property, it shall be replaced unless it is removed as part of an approved landscaping
plan. This requirement runs with the land and is binding on all future property owners.
4. If any plant materials are not maintained or replaced, the property owner shall have,
upon written notification from the City, one growing season to replace said materials
before the City shall maintain or replace said plant materials and assess the property for
the costs thereof.
(a) The following are deemed to be public nuisances:
(1) Dead or diseased plant material that has not been removed within a specified
amount of time from the date of the notification by the City.
(2) Required landscaping that has been removed and has not been replaced within a
specified amount of time from the date of the notification by the City.
5. Plant materials need not be replaced exact genus for genus; however, in no case shall the
number of plant materials or proportional genus diversity be reduced from the minimum
that is required by this section when replacing dead or removed plant materials.
Landscaping7 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018357.v1
212
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 633Architectural Standards
633.01 General Provisions & Purpose
1. Purpose. Recognizing that most buildings will have several owners over the course of
their usable life, the City establishes minimum architectural standards to provide,
preserve and enhance the character of buildings and property values within the
community. By preventing the physical deterioration of buildings and promoting durable
and aesthetically pleasing designs, the general community welfare is maintained.
2. Applicability. Architectural standards apply to 3-or-more-unit multi-family residential and
all non-residential principal structures, in any of the following situations:
(a) Any new development or redevelopment;
(b) Façade replacement 50 percent or more; and
(c) Building expansions greater than 50 percent of the floor area.
633.02 Exterior Building Materials
1. In general. all exterior materials shall be of a durable finish, good aesthetic and
architectural quality to not adversely impact the community’s public health, safety and
general welfare.
2. Material classes. Exterior materials shall be divided into Class I, Class II, Class III and a
Prohibited category as follows:
(a) Class I shall be considered high-quality building materials that are durable to
withstand climate conditions, wear and tear with a typical life expectancy of 40 years
or more. Class I materials include but are not limited to:
(1) Unpainted full or thin veneer fired clay brick;
(2) Unpainted full or thin natural, manufactured or cast stone;
(3) Architectural ceramic panel rainscreen systems;
(4) Architectural cementitious panel rainscreen systems;
(5) Glass, including bird-friendly glass, glass curtain walls and glass cladding systems;
(6) Materials specified as part of a building’s certification under the LEED (Leadership
in Energy and Environmental Design) program.
(b) Class II shall be considered standard building materials with a typical life expectancy
of 20 years or more, but less than 40 years. Class II materials include but are not
limited to:
(1) Masonry stucco, provided that the material shall not be allowed within 24 inches
from grade;
(2) Metal wall panel systems (this shall not include metal siding and corrugated or
ribbed metal sheets);
(3) Exterior Insulation and Finish System (EIFS);
Architectural Standards 1 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018363.v1
213
Jufn!3/
(4) Fiber cement lap siding or trim;
(5) Integrally colored textural concrete panels; and
(6) Integrally colored specialty concrete block.
(c) Class III shall be considered lower-cost and trim grade materials more prone to
damage or degradation from weatherization with a typical life expectancy of 20 years
or less. Class III materials include but are not limited to:
(1) Vinyl siding or panels;
(2) Painted wood or masonry; and
(3) Translucent wall panel systems.
(d) Prohibited exterior materials shall be restricted on all applicable principal structures
and accessory buildings except those accessory buildings not visible from public view
due to location, screening or as determined by the Community Development
Director or their designee. Prohibited materials include:
((a)) Unadorned or pre-stressed concrete panels;
((b)) Non-decorative concrete block; and
((c)) Sheet, corrugated, or unfinished metal wall panels.
3. Minimum material requirements.
(a) Front façades and façades facing a public right-of-way shall be composed of at least
50 percent Class I materials and no more than 10 percent Class III materials.
(b) Side and rear façades shall be composed of at least 40 percent Class I materials and
no more than 20 percent Class III materials.
(c) Each façade must utilize a minimum of two types of Class I materials.
633.03 Architectural Design
1. All buildings shall be designed with elements that incorporate varying articulation and
textured façade, with at least two of the following elements on any façade that can be
viewed from a public street:
(a) Change in materials, change in color, and other significant visual relief provided in a
manner or at intervals in keeping with the size, mass and scale of the wall.
(b) Architectural detailing such as arches, clerestories, columns, corbeling, pilasters,
portals, quoins, tiling and towers. Additional architectural elements may include the
use of awnings, canopies, embrasures, lunettes, plant boxes and recesses.
(c) Primary entrance clearly defined through the use of awnings, canopies, pillars,
peaked roof form, entryway or architectural tilework, moldings or similar features
integrated into the building design.
2. Building façade transparency. On the ground floor front facade, the following minimum
standards apply:
(a) Amounts of transparency which is able to provide unobstructed views into and out of
the building:
Architectural Standards 2 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018363.v1
214
Jufn!3/
(1) Multi-unit dwellings shall have a minimum of 20 percent transparency in the area
occupied by dwelling units.
(2) Non-residential uses shall provide a minimum of 30 percent transparency.
Industrial uses are exempt from this requirement, but uses accessory to industrial
(e.g., office or retail portions of mixed-use buildings) are not exempt.
(b) Transparency shall not be permanently blocked by storage, shelving, mechanical
equipment or other visual barriers.
(c) Darkly tinted windows, reflective glass or window signs that block two-way visibility
are prohibited. Tinted windows shall be no darker than 20 percent tint.
633.04 Architectural Standards Review Procedures
1. For any project required to meet architectural standards, the applicant shall submit
building elevations, materials diagrams, and associated drawings in color that illustrate
the construction techniques to be used in the installation of the materials as part of
required plan submittals identified in Section X. At least one elevation shall be provided
to show nighttime conditions.
2. Substitution of materials. The Community Development Director or their designee may
approve alternative building materials on a case-by-case basis, provided that such
materials exhibit the durability and structural integrity desired, with sufficient
architectural relief, and do not detract from the desired aesthetic character of the
building or the surrounding area.
3. The Community Development Director or their designee may determine that the
substitution of materials shall require further review by the Planning Commission and
City Council.
4. Construction shall follow the approved architectural plans. At the discretion of the
Community Development Director or their designee, a request to change up to five
percent of the originally approved building materials can be reviewed administratively.
Requests for more significant changes, or as determined by the Community
Development Director or their designee to need additional review, shall follow the site
plan process identified in Chapter 650 Procedures.
Architectural Standards 3 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018363.v1
215
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 634Fencing
634.01 PURPOSE
1. The City recognizes the health, safety, aesthetic and economic value of fences. The
provisions of this Chapter are intended to:
(a) Allow for areas on site for privacy, while maintaining the City’s general open design
along streets;
(b) Provide screening and mitigation of potential conflicts between active areas and
more passive areas;
(c) Enhance the overall aesthetic conditions of the City;
(d) Limit sight line obstructions;
(e) Reduce the potential for criminal and illegal activities; and
(f) Prevent conflicts with utilities and drainage flow.
634.02 GENERAL FENCING PROVISIONS
1. Fences shall be permitted in all yards and zoning districts subject to the provisions in this
Chapter.
2. Property owners wishing to erect a fence shall first apply for and obtain a zoning permit
from the City, in accordance with Section X.
3. Fencing shall be located entirely upon the private property of the owner constructing the
fence. No fence shall be located on a property line. The property owner is responsible for
maintaining the area between the property line and the owner’s fence.
4. No fence shall encroach into the Vision Safety Zone as described in Section 610.03 (6).
5. Fences in Easements
(a) Fences placed within a drainage or utility easement shall be at the risk of the
property owner. The City or any utility company that has the authority to use such
easement will not be liable for any damages, repair or replacement of the fence in
the event it is moved, damaged or destroyed in the installation, maintenance or
repair of the facilities or utilities within the easement area.
(b) If located within a drainage or utility easement, the fence shall not impede the flow
of water runoff or interfere with planned or installed utilities. Fences which have been
determined by the Community Development Director to impede water runoff or
interfere with utilities are deemed a public nuisance and shall be removed at the
owners’ expense.
6. Specific district standards may apply to special fencing as applicable in Section 634.04.
7. Every fence must be constructed in a substantial and sturdy manner and of a substantial
material. Fences must be constructed of wood, metal, bricks, masonry, plastic or other
Fencing 1 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018382.v1
216
Jufn!3/
materials designed for permanent outdoor fencing. Wood fences must be constructed of
cedar, redwood or other decay resistant wood. Fences must not be constructed from
razor wire, snow fencing, plywood or materials originally intended for other purposes.
(a) Fence installation, posts and supporting members. All fence elements must be
permanently installed and constructed in a durable manner to secure the fence in a
vertically level position. Fences must be installed so that fasteners, posts and lateral
supports are not on the side of the fence facing an adjacent property or public right-
of-way, unless exposed on both sides.
8. All fencing shall be maintained, kept safe and in a state of good repair by the property
owner. The property owner is responsible for maintaining the area between the property
line and the owner’s fence.
9. Every fence must be maintained in a condition of reasonable repair and may not be
allowed to become and remain in a condition of disrepair or danger, or constitute a
nuisance, public or private. Any such fence that has become a nuisance must be repaired
or removed. Any violation of this Section is subject to the Abatement of Exterior Public
Nuisances Chapter of the Code.
10. Any fence existing on the effective date of this Chapter and not in conformance with this
section may be maintained, but no alteration, modification or improvement of said fence
shall occur, unless installed in conformance with this section.
634.03 FENCE HEIGHT
1. Except where otherwise required by this code or required by a condition of approval for
a land use application, the following limitations apply to fence height:
Maximum Fence Height
Type of Yard
Multi-Unit Dwellings (3+ units) and
R-1 and R-2 Districts
Nonresidential Uses
Front Yard4 ft.4 ft.
Side or Rear Yard 6 ft.8 ft.
2. No fence may exceed a height of 30 inches within 10 feet of a driveway for a distance of
10 feet in each direction from the intersection of the property line, as illustrated in Figure
X.
Figure X
Fencing 2 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018382.v1
217
Jufn!3/
3.Building permits are required for fences over seven feet in height.
4.Exceptions and interpretation.The following exceptions and guidance on interpretation
apply to fence height limitations:
(a)A residential fence abutting a nonresidential use may rise to the height of eight feet.
(b)For the purposes of determining fence height, the Community Development Director
shall determine the frontyard.
634.04 SPECIAL FENCE PROVISIONS
1.Security Fencing
(a)Security and electrical fencing are permitted only in industrial zoning districtsthat:
(1)Abut a railroad;
Fencing34/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018382.v1
218
Jufn!3/
(2) Have approved outdoor storage uses;
(3) Contain public utility or defense contractor facilities.
(b) Additional height is allowed for an electric security fence or a barbed wire security
fence if:
(1) The fence is located in the side or rear yard of an industrial property that has
been approved for outdoor storage use; and
(2) In any yard of a public utility or defense contractor facility, the following
conditions are met:
((a)) Barbed wire security fence. In addition to an eight-foot fence, up to three
strands of barbed wire, not to exceed 18 inches total in height, may be affixed
to the top of the eight-foot fence and mounted on standard barbed wire
arms designed specifically for that purpose.
((b)) Electric security fence.
((1)) In addition to an eight-foot-tall fence, commercially-available
electric security fencing which meets the standards established in
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) “Standard Practice for
Commercial Application of Electric Security Fences” and is installed and
maintained to manufacturer specifications may extend up to 24 inches
above the eight-foot-high fence.
((2)) Electric security fencing must be placed inside a solid surface or
otherwise impenetrable, eight-foot tall, non-electric fence capable of
preventing ground-level persons, animals or objects from contacting it
from outside the fence.
((3)) The electric security fence must at all times be marked with clearly
legible electric fence warning signage. Signage must be placed at least
every 30 linear feet and on every gate.
((4)) The area three feet from the electric security fence in any direction
must be kept free of vegetation which may contact the electric security
fence.
(c) With City approval, during times of national emergency, properties may be
authorized for additional usage of barbed wire or electric security fencing including
temporary barriers made of barbed wire and barbed wire used on top of temporary
security fences.
634.05 PROHIBITED FENCES
1. The following fences are prohibited within the City:
(a) Any fence charged with or connected to an electrical current, able to be transmitted
to persons, animals or objects which might come in contact with it, unless otherwise
authorized by this Chapter.
Fencing 4 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018382.v1
219
Jufn!3/
(b) Any fence constructed within or upon any public right-of-way or pedestrian or
vehicle access.
(c) Any fence constructed within, upon or through any stormwater drainage areas,
ponds or wetlands.
(d) Any fence that encloses, hinders or restricts access to above ground utility boxes, fire
hydrants or other above ground utility structures or components.
(e) Any fence over 30 inches tall located within a Vision Safety Zone as described in
Section 610.03 (6).
Fencing 5 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018382.v1
220
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 635Screening
635.01 PURPOSE
1. The City recognizes the health, safety, aesthetic, ecological and economic value of
screening. The provisions of this section are intended to:
(a) Soften dominant building mass;
(b) Improve the visual quality and continuity between developments;
(c) Provide screening and mitigation of potential conflicts between activity areas and
more passive areas;
(d) Protect and improve property values; and
(e) Improve air quality and provide a buffer from air and noise pollution.
635.02 GENERAL SCREENING PROVISIONS
1. Applicability
(a) Lot screening. Where the side or rear yard of an industrial use abuts a residentially
zoned or guided property, the industrial use shall provide a 15-foot-wide planting
area to create a visual and physical separation between the properties.
(b) Site element screening. For all multi-unit residential and non-residential uses,
screening shall be required for the following, with landscaping or materials
compatible with the design, materials, and colors used elsewhere on the site:
(1) Off-street parking areas with four or more spaces shall be screened along the
side and rear yards but may be open to the front yard;
(2) Accessory structures, driveways and loading areas, including loading docks, in a
yard adjacent to or abutting residential districts or the public-right-of way;
(3) Motor vehicles necessary to the operation of the principal use may be stored
without screening in the rear yard or in the side yard behind the front building
line if they are not readily visible from a public right-of-way or a public park;
(4) All mechanical equipment and utility functions, except approved alternate energy
devices and rooftop mechanical equipment, must be screened unless the
equipment is designed as an integral part of the building and is compatible with
the building.
(5) Refuse and recycling containers shall be screened as specified in Chapter 319
Solid Waste Management.
((a)) Within the M-O Heavy Industrial, Onaway Addition District, any bulk or
box type container used for storage of mixed municipal solid waste,
recyclables or compostables located within an alleyway, must be located
within five feet from the principal structure and does not require screening
from any public right-of-way.
Screening 1 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018398.v1
221
Jufn!3/
(6)Outdoor storage areas, as described in Section621.10. The following related
outdoor storage activities are exempt from screening requirements:
((a))Merchandise being displayed for sale; and
((b))Materials and equipment currently being used for construction on the
premises.
2.General screening standards
(a)All required screening or buffering shall be located entirely on the private property
occupied by the use, building, facility or structures to be screened. No screening or
buffering shall be located on any public right of wayor within any easement.
(b)No screening shall impede pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
(c)Screening shall not be placed so as to obstruct Vision Safety Zonesat street corners,
alleysand driveways as illustrated in Figure X.
Figure X
nless part of another approval (e.g., CUP), screening type, size and location must be
(d)U
approved by the Citythrough a zoning permit in accordance with Section X.
(e)Landscape screening shall be maintained in a neat and healthful condition.Dead,
diseased or dyingvegetation shall be promptly replaced.
635.03 SCREENING MATERIALS
1.Screening shall consist of the following elements or a combination of these elements, so
as to block direct visual access to a structure or use, ata minimum height of three feet:
(a)A continuous planting screen:
Screening24/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018398.v1
222
Jufn!3/
(1) The planting screen shall consist of healthy, hardy plant materials such as a
closely grown hedge with year-round foliage, rows of deciduous trees, coniferous
trees, shrubs or other vegetation approved by the City.
(2) The planting screen shall be designed to provide a year-round minimum
opaqueness of 80 percent at three or more feet in height to achieve the required
screening at the time of maturity.
(b) A solid screening fence or wall:
(1) The fence or wall shall comply with the fence height standards in Section 634.03
and shall not be located within 15 feet of any public right of way.
(2) The fence or wall shall be constructed of attractive, permanent finished materials,
compatible with the principal structure or surrounding buildings such as masonry,
brick, wood or steel. When used for screening purposes, chain link fences shall
have slats.
(3) Chain link fences may not be used to screen industrial property from abutting
residential uses.
(4) Additional plantings may also be required in addition to a fence or wall.
(c) Landscaped earth berm with year-round foliage. In no situation shall berms be used
as the sole means of screening.
(1) Earth berms screening parking lots and other open areas shall not have slopes
exceeding 3:1.
(d) If the topography, natural growth of vegetation, permanent buildings or other
methods meet the standards for screening as approved by the Community
Development Director or their designee, they may be substituted for all or part of the
screening fence or planting screen.
Screening 3 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018398.v1
223
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 636Lighting
636.01 PURPOSE
1. The City of Fridley recognizes the health, safety, welfare and aesthetic value of providing
lighting standards in the community. These lighting provisions are intended to:
(a) Establish efficient and cost-effective lighting requirements adequate for safety and
security;
(b) Reduce light pollution, light trespass, glare and offensive light sources;
(c) Provide an environmentally sensitive nighttime environment;
(d) Discourage inappropriate, poorly designed or installed outdoor lighting by requiring
quality lighting design, light fixture shielding and maximum uniformity ratios; and
(e) Protect motor vehicle operators, pedestrians and adjacent land uses from glare.
636.02 GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
1. Lighting shall not negatively impact adjacent properties nor create a hazard for vehicular
or pedestrian traffic. Unless exempted by this section, exterior lighting shall be directed
downward and away from adjoining property with luminaries shielded.
2. Lighting shall be designed to provide adequate lighting throughout a site.
3. Site plans submitted with a building permit application, except for single-unit or two-unit
dwellings, shall contain lighting and landscape plans, in accordance with Ch 650
Procedures. Plans must be signed by a registered Electrician, Electrical Engineer or a
Lighting Certified (LC) professional certified by the National Council on Qualifications for
the Lighting Professions.
4. Lights for illuminating parking and loading areas or yards for safety and security
purposes may be provided where necessary. No light or combination of lights which cast
light upon a public street shall exceed one foot candle meter reading as measured from
the centerline of the street nor shall any light or combination of lights cast light upon
residentially zoned property exceeding 0.3 foot candle meter reading as measured at the
receiving residential lot line.
5. The maximum height above the ground grade permitted for poles, fixtures and light
sources mounted on a pole is 25 feet.
6. Any lighting used to illuminate an off-street parking area shall be shielded or diffused to
reflect the light away from adjoining property and traffic.
7. Outdoor lighting reduction in non-residential areas and common areas of multi-unit
residential properties shall be no later than 11:00 p.m. For those businesses which are
open later than 11:00 p.m., outdoor lighting reduction shall occur one hour after the
close of business. After such time, total outdoor brightness (foot candles) must be
reduced by at least 50 percent or turned off.
Lighting 1 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018413.v1
224
Jufn!3/
8. Motion sensing light fixtures shall be adjusted according to the manufacturer’s
instructions to dim or turn off no more than 10 minutes after detected motion ceases.
9. The Community Development Director may approve a lighting plan that has different
standards for time of lighting reduction and motion lights if applicable based on traffic,
safety or other unique site conditions.
10. Expansions, additions or replacements to exterior lighting installations shall be designed
to avoid harsh contrasts in color or lighting levels.
636.03 EXCEPTIONS
1.The lightingbelow shall be exempt from the provisions of this Chapter:
(a) Publicly controlled or maintained street lighting and warning, emergency or traffic
signals;
(b) Lighting required by federal, state, county or city ordinances and regulations;
(c) Lighting for public monuments, statues, flagpoles or other similar elements, provided
that:
(1) Any spotlight used for this purpose is shielded from adjacent properties
(2) A flagpole shall not have more than three upward aimed, fully shielded spotlight
fixtures per flag.
(d) Lighting specified or identified in a land use approval;
(e) Temporary outdoor lighting used for civic events, performance areas, outdoor events
and construction sites;
(f) Lighting for public outdoor recreation uses;
(g) Neon signs, theater marquee lights or decorative lighting that meets all of the
requirements of this Chapter and the Sign Ordinance;
(h) Athletic fields and outdoor recreation facilities serving or operated by an institutional
or public use that otherwise meet all of the requirements of this Chaptershall be
exempt between the hours of 7:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m.;
(i) Ornamental lighting, such as low voltage light fixtures (12 volts or less), low wattage
ornamental landscape lighting fixtures, and solar operated light fixtures having self-
contained rechargeable batteries;
(j) Underwater lighting in swimming pools, fountains and other water features; and
Lighting 2 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1018413.v1
225
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 640Subdivision Design Standards
640.01 PURPOSE
1. Subdivision design standards are established to guide a coordinated, adjusted and
harmonious development of the City.
2. Subdivision design standards are established to ensure that subdivisions are designed to
accommodate existing and future growth and address community needs.
3. Subdivision design standards are established to promote the public, health, safety, order,
convenience, and the general welfare with efficiency and economic consideration in the
process of subdivision development.
640.02 GENERAL DESIGN STANDARDS
1. The following design standards are hereby established for land subdivisions:
(a) The proposed subdivision, including the general layout, street pattern, street widths,
proposed private and public areas, facilities and uses, shall conform to these
regulations and other applicable laws, and to the City's Comprehensive Plan.
(b) The design features set forth in this Chapter are minimum requirements. The City
may impose additional or more stringent requirements concerning lot size, streets,
and overall design as deemed appropriate considering the property being
subdivided.
(c) Land Suitability
(1) Land shall be suited to the purpose for which it is to be subdivided. No
subdivision shall be approved if the site is not suitable for the purposes proposed
by reason of potential flooding, topography, or adverse soil, rock formation or
wetlands.
(2) Land subject to hazards to life, health, or property shall not be subdivided until all
such hazards have been eliminated or unless adequate safeguards against such
hazards are provided by the subdivision plans.
2. Exceptions to Design Standards
(a) The City Council may authorize a modification or exception to the design standards
listed in this Chapter in order to permit reasonable subdivision of property as
recommended by City staff based on characteristics unique to the property. These
conditions may include, but are not limited to, natural features (topography,
wetlands floodplain, etc.), presence of major utilities (i.e., high pressure gas main),
and the overall size of the subdivision.
640.03 BLOCKS AND LOTS
1. Blocks
Subdivision Design Standards 1 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019097.v1
226
Jufn!3/
(a)Block Length
(1)Block lengths shall be determined by circulation and other needs, with lengths of
up to 1,500 feet permissible when approved by the City Council.
(2)On blocks 700 feet or more in length, the City Councilmay require walkways not
less than 10 feet wide for a pedestrian way or crosswalknear the center of the
block, or to provide access to schools, playgrounds, shopping centers, and other
areas and facilities (see Figure X).
Figure X
(b)Block Width
(1)Residential blocks shall be of sufficient width for two tiers of lots except when
adjoining a lake, stream, railroad or arterialstreet, or where one tier of lots is
necessary because of topographic conditions.
(2)Where residential blocks with lots deeper than 260 feet are proposed, the City
Councilmay require the dedication offuture right-of-way through the middle of
the block longitudinally.
(3)Blocks for commercial and industrial areas shall be of such width as to be
considered most suitable for their respective use, including adequate space for
off-street parking and deliveries.
2.Lots
Subdivision Design Standards24/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019097.v1
227
Jufn!3/
(a) Lots shall conform to the requirements and dimensional standards of the Zoning
Code.
3. Each lot shall be adequate to provide space for the principal structure and all necessary
accessory structures. A corner lot shall be at least an additional five feet in width to
ensure compliance with building setbacks from both streets.
(a) Side lot lines shall be at right angles or radial to street lines. Slight variations under
difficult conditions shall be permissible with City Council approval.
(b) Irregularly shaped lots are discouraged. Where such lots are proposed, the applicant
shall demonstrate to the City an ability to properly place principal buildings and
accessory structures on the lot in a manner which is compatible in size and character
to the surrounding area.
(c) All remnants of lots below minimum size left over after subdividing a larger tract
must be:
(1) Added to adjacent lots;
(2) Dedicated to the public;
(3) Owned with by a homeowner association or comparable association with
specified restrictions; or
(4) Platted as an outlot with specific restrictions.
(d) Accessibility. Each lot in a subdivision shall be satisfactorily served from a public
street to allow for general accessibility for firefighting, refuse collection and delivery
purposes unless a particular lot in the subdivision has received approval from City
Council that will allow access to the lot via an access easement.
640.04 STREET DESIGN
1. All streets shall be designed to comply with the standards set by the City’s Engineering
Specifications.
2. Proposed streets shall conform to the state, county, and city plans as have been
prepared, adopted, and filed as prescribed by law.
3. Street Patterns. Street patterns must substantially follow the patterns shown on the land
use plan or be at least the equal of the planned patterns in these respects:
(a) They shall adequately serve platted lots when developed;
(b) They shall intersect existing or planned trunk highways and major thoroughfares at
infrequent intervals only;
(c) They shall not obstruct the reasonable and desirable development of adjoining,
unsubdivided lands in conformity with any applicable plans or with these design
standards;
(d) They shall be designed to discourage through traffic from using local streets in the
subdivision;
Subdivision Design Standards 3 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019097.v1
228
Jufn!3/
(e) They shall be suited to the topography of the land, but with their orientation
influenced by walking direction and distance to and from existing and planned parks,
playgrounds and schools;
(f) No more than four corners are allowed for an intersection; and
(g) New streets must extend to the boundary line of any new subdivision.
4. Temporary Dead-End Streets
(a) Where a future street is proposed in connection to the proposed subdivision
development, a temporary turn-around by fire code standards shall be constructed
of temporary concrete or alternative approved by the City Engineer.
(b) The proposed subdivision may result in only one means of ingress/egress for a
period of time until a later phase of development occurs or until an abutting
property extends the roadway. Temporary dead-end streets that serve land uses that
generate more than 500 average daily traffic (ADT) shall provide an alternative access
or make other necessary accommodations for safe ingress and egress to the
satisfaction of the City Council.
5. Access. The street pattern shall be designed to minimize access points and crossings
along all railroad and arterial thoroughfares.
6. Public Streets. All proposed streets shall be offered for dedication as public streets, with
no private streets shown.
7. Right Angle Intersection. Streets shall intersect or intercept each other at right angles.
Intersections may be permitted to vary, at most 20 degrees when considered necessary.
8. Jogs. Jogs in streets shall have center line offsets of 125 feet or more.
9. Corners. Property lines at residential street corners shall be rounded on a radius of at
least 10 feet and curb lines on a radius of at least 20 feet, provided that greater radii may
be required by the City Council when deemed necessary.
10. The location, width and alignment of streets shall conform, to the City General
Specifications and Standard Details, major street plan, or any other applicable plans, as
specified by the City Engineer including state and county highway plans.
11. Half-width Streets. Half-width streets are not acceptable except as found practically
necessary by the City Council and only with the assurance of dedication of the other half
of the street when adjoining property will be subdivided.
12. Corporate Boundary Streets. For protecting the City in developing and maintaining
streets bordering the corporate limits, where a half-width street dedication is proposed,
the applicant shall furnish one of the following with the preliminary plat:
(a) Assurance that the remaining half of the street that is outside the corporate limits has
or will be dedicated; or
(b) A warranty deed for the remaining half of the street that is outside the corporate
limits; or
Subdivision Design Standards 4 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019097.v1
229
Jufn!3/
(c) An easement for right-of-way purposes for the remaining half of the street, signed by
the owners of the property in which the street will be located.
13. Grades. Street grades of six percent shall be considered a desirable maximum. This
maximum may be exceeded only when required by topography or other controlling
physical conditions. Grades of all streets, walks, curbs, and gutters shall be approved by
the City.
14. Drainage. All interior streets shall have concrete curbs and the road surface constructed
according to City standards to handle drainage according to a City approved drainage
plan.
15. Street Names. Names of streets which are extensions of existing streets shall be the
same, provided that these and other street names are subject to City approval.
640.05 NON-MOTORIZED CONNECTIONS
1. Sidewalk design
(a) Sidewalks are required on at least one side of every local street. Sidewalks are not
required along a cul-de-sac but may be required to extend between residential
properties at the end to connect to an adjacent neighborhood.
(b) Sidewalks must be placed in the public right-of-way or within an easement in favor
of the City.
(c) Sidewalks shall be at least six feet in width and meet specifications set forth by the
City General Specifications and Standard Details approved by the City Engineer,
including accessibility requirements.
(d) The City Council may allow the applicant to delay the installation of the sidewalk if
the applicant signs an agreement that it will be constructed when the City requires
the installation. A letter of credit or cash escrow may be required in order to ensure
that the sidewalk is installed at a later date.
2. Trail Design
(a) Multi-use trails shall be required on one side of all collector and arterial roadways.
Where a sidewalk already exists on a collector or arterial roadway, the City Council
shall determine whether a sidewalk or a trail shall be installed.
(b) Trail linkages or easements for trail linkages shall also be established in accordance
with the City’s Comprehensive Plan and Active Transportation Plan.
(1) The City will designate the required width of easements and elevations for grades
at the time a building is constructed on the property.
(2) Any landscaping or irrigation systems installed within an easement must be
removed and replaced at the property owner’s expense when the trail or sidewalk
is installed in the future.
(c) Multi-use trails shall be placed in the public right-of-way or an easement in favor of
the City.
Subdivision Design Standards 5 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019097.v1
230
Jufn!3/
(d)Multi-use trails shall be at least 10 feet in width and meet specifications set forth by
the Public Works Design Manual or the City Engineer, including accessibility
requirements.
640.06 EASEMENTS
1.Watercourses and stormwater facilities shall be identified and delineated within an
easement.
2.Easements offered for dedication should be shown along lot lines where needed for
utility, drainage, screen planting, or other purposes.
3.Drainage and utility easements shall be provided along front, rear, and shared side lot
lines. Easements shall be 10 feet wide along the front property line and five feet wide
along rear and side lot lines. Easements of greater width of area may be required if
necessary for the extension of utilities, drainage purposes, or to incorporate wetlands.
4.Drainage and utility easements shall connect with easements established in adjoining
properties. These easements, when approved, shall not thereafter be changed without
the approval of the City Council after a public hearing(see Figure X).
(Figure X)
Subdivision Design Standards64/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019097.v1
231
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 641Required Subdivision Improvements
641.01 PURPOSE
1. The purpose of requiring subdivision improvements is to ensure that all new
developments are safe, functional and aesthetically pleasing.
2. Subdivision improvements shall be designed to the standards within this Chapter to
provide essential infrastructure that meet community needs.
3. These requirements aim to promote sufficient access, efficiency and preservation of
environmental resources.
641.02 REQUIRED IMPROVEMENTS
1. The City may require the following improvements of any subdivision applicant:
(a) Streets, Sidewalks and Trails. The applicant shall grade and improve all streets,
sidewalks and trails in accordance with adopted plans and City specifications.
(b) Install Underground Utilities. Install water mains, storm and sanitary sewers and
additional drainage facilities, where any or all are required. Where water mains, storm
and sanitary sewers, and additional drainage facilities are to be installed, any required
street improvements may be deferred until after such installation.
(c) Off Street Improvements. Erect street name signs, sod boulevard areas, and plant the
required number of trees on each lot near the front lot line, or in the boulevard area,
whichever is specified by the City. Grades shall be set by the City and improvements
shall be in accordance with the standards and specifications established by the City
Code and the Council.
(d) Monuments. All subdivision boundary corners, block and lot corners, road
intersection corners, and points of tangency and curvature shall be marked with
survey monuments meeting the minimum requirements of state law and the County
surveyor. All federal, state, county and other official bench marks, monuments or
triangulation stations in or adjacent to the property shall be preserved in precise
position unless a relocation is approved by the controlling agency.
641.03 SURETY FOR IMPROVEMENTS
1. As a condition to the approval of a final plat, the applicant shall give satisfactory
assurance of the installation of at least the above required improvements at the
applicant's own expense, within a period of time specified by the City Council.
(a) Cost of improvements. To cover the cost of improvements that may not have been
completed at the time of filing the final plat, the applicant shall furnish cash, a
certified check, or a letter of credit to the City of Fridley to secure the performance of
such installation by the applicant within a period of time as stipulated by the Council
or to cover installation by the City.
Required Subdivision Improvements 1 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1019163.v1
232
Jufn!3/
641.04 REQUIRED AGREEMENTS; PROPER INSTALLATION
1. If the Community Development Director determines that public improvements are
required, the applicant shall enter into a development contract with the City, prior to the
approval of the final plat. The contract shall require the applicant to furnish and
construct the public improvements at their sole cost and in accordance with plans,
specifications, and usual contract conditions.
2. The development contract shall include provision for supervision of details of
construction by the City Engineer and grant to the City Engineer authority to correlate
the work to be done under the development contract by any subcontractors authorized
to proceed thereunder and with any other work being done or contracted by the City in
the vicinity.
3. The applicant shall provide to the City a written warranty that all required improvements
on the site will meet or exceed all City standards and that such improvements have been
inspected and tested in regards to the City standards. The applicant is responsible for
having all such inspections and testing completed at their expense.
4. The applicant shall be required to maintain all improvements and provide for snow
removal and maintenance of streets, if required, until acceptance of said improvements
by the City Council in coordination of the development contract.
641.05 INSPECTION
1. All required improvements on the site that are to be installed under the provisions of this
Chapter shall be inspected during the course of construction by the City Engineer,
Community Development Director or Building Inspector.
Required Subdivision Improvements 2 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1019163.v1
233
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 642Park Dedication
642.01 LAND DEDICATION REQUIRED
1. In every subdivision of land, a reasonable portion of such land shall be dedicated to the
public or preserved for conservation purposes or for public use as parks, recreational
facilities, playgrounds, trails, or public open space.
2. It is hereby found and declared that, pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 462.358,
subdivision 2b, as a prerequisite to subdivision approval, it is reasonable to require
dedication of an amount of land equal in value to that set forth in Section 642.03of this
section (or require a cash contribution in lieu of such dedication).
3. This dedication shall be in addition to the land dedicated for streets, alleys, storm water
ponds and other public purposes.
4. Previously subdivided property from which a park dedication has been received, that is
being re-subdivided with the same number of lots, is exempt from park dedication
requirements. If, as a result of re-subdividing the property, the number of lots is
increased, then the park dedication or per-lot cash fee must apply only to the net
increase of lots.
642.02 LAND TO BE DEDICATED
1. Land Suitability
(a) Land to be dedicated shall be suitable for its intended public use and shall be at a
location convenient to the people to be served. Factors used in evaluating the
adequacy of the proposed park and recreation areas shall include size, shape,
topography, geology, hydrology, tree cover, access, and location.
(b) The City shall not be required to accept land which will not be usable for parks,
recreational facilities, playgrounds, trails, or open space or which would require
extensive expenditures on the part of the City to make them usable.
(c) All land dedicated for parks, recreational facilities, playgrounds, trails or public open
space shall be designed to incorporate natural features as much as possible, such as
rivers, streams, wetlands, wildlife habitats, woodlands and ponding areas.
2. As part of the subdivision approval, the applicant shall be responsible for making certain
improvements to dedicated park land, including, but not limited to, finish grading,
ground cover, construction of trails, and clearly identifying park and trail boundaries with
City-approved markers.
3. Prior to the dedication of the required property, the developer shall:
(a) Provide a survey with topographic data, including contours at vertical intervals of at
least two feet, watercourses, wetlands, marshes, rock outcrops, easements, utilities
and vegetative data. Portions of any property dedicated to the public for park and
recreation purposes to be used for borrow and fill activities elsewhere in the
Park Dedication 1 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1019166.v1
234
Jufn!3/
development shall be clearly identified.
(b) Provide the City with evidence of title in a form acceptable to the City Attorney and a
title insurance policy ensuring the City's interest in the property. In any dedication of
required land, the developer must have good and marketable title to the land, free
and clear of any mortgages, liens, encumbrances or assessments, except easements
or minor imperfections of title acceptable to the City. The developer shall provide the
City with a warranty deed for the property. The warranty deed shall be provided at
the time of recording of the final plat.
4. If the city accepts park dedication in an amount less than the amount required by
Section 642.03 of this section, the applicant shall pay cash in lieu to the City; the
appraised fair market value of the remaining land required to be dedicated. The
appraised value of the remaining land required to be dedicated shall be determined by
the method specified in Section 642.04 of this section.
642.03 DEDICATION FORMULA
1. The amount of land required for public dedication shall be calculated in the following
manner:
(a) 10 percent of all the gross area of residential zoned property to be subdivided; and
(b) Three percent of the gross area of commercial or industrial zoned property to be
subdivided.
642.04 CASH IN LIEU OF LANDDEDICATION
1. The City may choose to accept an equivalent amount in cash from the applicant for part
or all of the portion required to be dedicated to such public uses or purposes based on
the average fair market value of the land no later than at the time of final approval.
2. The City may elect to receive a combination of land and cash for park use. The City shall
determine the amount of land dedication that it requires, and the cash contribution shall
be calculated based on the percentage of unmet land dedication.
3. Any cash payments received shall be placed in a special fund which shall be held and
used by the City to acquire land for, or to improve, parks, recreational facilities,
playgrounds, trails, or public open space. Cash payments shall not be used by the City
for ongoing operation or maintenance of parks, recreational facilities, playgrounds, trails,
or public open space.
4. The City shall require a cash payment in lieu of parks, recreational facilities, playgrounds,
trails, or public open space dedication whenever:
(a) The proposed dedication of land for public use is not needed;
(b) The proposed dedication of land for public use is not suitable for the intended use;
(c) The proposed dedication of land is too small for practical maintenance; or
(d) The cash payment would be more beneficial to the development of the overall park
system than dedication of the land within the property to be developed.
5. Determination of Cash Payment
Park Dedication 2 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1019166.v1
235
Jufn!3/
(a) Cash contributions shall be paid according to Chapter 209 Fees of the City Code.
Payment of the cash contribution shall be required at the time of recording of the
final plat.
(b) If the applicant disputes the amount of the proposed cash contribution in lieu of land
dedication, the park dedication fee shall be determined as follows:
(1) The applicant shall obtain an appraisal of the market value of the property at the
time of final subdivision approval at their own expense. The appraisal shall be
made by approved members of the Member Appraisal Institute (MAI), or
equivalent real estate societies.
(2)A percentage equal to the percentage of land to be dedicated as contained in
Item C, above, shall be applied to the market value and shall be the park
dedication fee.
(3) If the City disputes such appraisal, the City may, at the applicant's expense, obtain
an appraisal of the property by a qualified real estate appraiser.
642.05 TIMING
1. The requirements of this section for dedication of land or for contribution of cash in lieu
of land shall apply at the time of final subdivision approval, and shall apply to any
subdivision which receives final approval.
642.06 MODIFICATION OF REQUIREMENTS
1. The dedication requirements based on the development's proportional share of the City
park system are presumptively appropriate.
2. A developer may request a deviation from the presumptive requirements as part of an
application for final plat approval based upon:
(a) The anticipated impact of that particular subdivision;
(b) Existing park and recreational facilities; or
(c) Proposed parks, open space, recreational, or common areas and facilities open to the
public as designated on development plans.
3. The City Council, after consideration of the request, may modify or reduce the
requirements of this section.
642.07 CREDIT FOR PRIVATE PARK AND OPEN SPACE
1. No credit to the requirements of subsection (C) of this section will be given for private
park, recreational facilities, or trails.
Park Dedication 3 4/10/2025
FR520\\21\\1019166.v1
236
Jufn!3/
Title 6 Zoning and Subdivision
Chapter 650Procedures
650.01 COMMON PROCEDURES AND REQUIREMENTS
1. Applicability
(a)Hereafter all development applications, permits and subdivisions of land as defined
herein, made within the City of Fridley, shall be subject to and shall conform to the
regulations in this Title and other applicable laws unless otherwise stated. All
developments shall conform to the official Zoning Map and other City plans,
ordinances, chapters and regulations.
(b) No conveyance of any lot or parcel of land in a subdivision shall be lawful until final
approval by the City Council and recording of the plat have occurred.
(c) No permit to erect, alter or repair any building shall be issued until any required
approvals are granted by the City. (Ref. 75).
2. Authority to File Applications
(a) Development review applications for an individual property may be initiated by:
(1) The owner of the property that is the subject of the application; or
(2) An agent authorized by the owner of the property that is the subject of the
application, which may include a lessee of the property. The property owner must
sign the application in order to show authorization.
(b) If the property subject to an application has more than one owner, all owners or their
authorized agents must sign the application.
(c) The City may initiate zoning text and map amendments to this chapter. If the subject
of the amendment is a specific site or project, the City may initiate amendments with
or without application from the owner.
3. Application Submittal
(a) A complete application shall be made in writing, submitted in a format prescribed by
the City, together with a non-refundable application fee as established by the Fees
chapter.
(b) Accompanying materials, such as a site plan or other documentation as required by
the City, shall be supplied with the application.
(c) Application fees are not refundable, except where the Community Development
Director has determined that an application was accepted in error or when the fee
paid exceeded the amount due, in which case an appropriate refund shall be made to
the applicant.
(d) An application will not be accepted until all required materials have been submitted.
Any application not submitted in the manner prescribed under this Chapter shall be
deemed “incomplete.”
Procedures 1 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
237
Jufn!3/
(e) When a written request or submitted application is received by the City, the City
shall, within 15 business days of its receipt, notify the person making the written
request or submission if it is not complete. Notification shall be done in writing. If
such notification is sent, it shall contain a list of those items necessary to complete
the application. No period for agency action specified in Minnesota Statutes Section
15.99 shall commence until a complete application is submitted to the City, including
any items specified in the notice from the City as the basis for a determination of
incompleteness.
4.Application Review
(a) Upon receipt of a complete application, the Community Development Director shall:
(1) Review the request.
(2) Refer the request to the appropriate staff as needed.
(3) Refer the application to the appropriate body(/ies) for review.
(4) Instruct the appropriate staff persons to prepare technical reports and/or provide
general assistance in preparing a recommendation on the request to the
appropriate decision-making body.
(b) Any and all expenses incurred by the City for engineering, planning, legal or other
services related to the review and processing of the land use or subdivision
application that exceeds the established application fee shall be collected from the
applicant.
(c) Timelines for Review
(1) The City expressly reserves the right to extend, with written notice, the period for
action under Minnesota Statutes Section 15.99 for a land use application for a
period of up to 60 days beyond the deadline specified therein if the Community
Development Director finds that additional time is reasonably necessary to
process and review the submission. The applicant may provide a written
extension of the review deadline beyond 60 days.
(2)Under Minnesota Statutes Section 462.358, subdivision applications for
preliminary plats shall be preliminarily approved or disapproved within 120 days
following delivery of a complete application, unless an extension of the review
period has been agreed to by the applicant.
(3) Under Minnesota Statutes Section 462.358, an application for a final plat shall be
approved or disapproved within 60 days following delivery of a complete
application, unless an extension of the review period has been agreed to by the
applicant.
5. Decision-Making Bodies and Officials.
(a) The following decision-making bodies shall have the primary responsibility of review
and decision-making authority on development applications submitted to the City.
Any determination made by the City Council or Board of Appeals is final, unless
otherwise stated.
Procedures 2 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
238
Jufn!3/
(1) Community Development Director. The Community Development Director has
the primary responsibility for the enforcement of this Title. No structure shall be
built, moved or altered and the use of land substantially changed except after
having an approved development application and obtained a permit from the
City. Additional powers and duties to enforce the provisions of this Title include:
((a)) Examining and filing any application pertaining to the use of land,
buildings or structures to determine if the application conforms with the
provisions of this title;
((b)) Receive, file and forward for action all applications for appeals, variances,
conditional uses, interim uses and amendments to this Title which are filed in
the Community Development Department;
((c)) Conduct inspections of buildings, structures and uses of land to
determine their compliance with this Title;
((d)) Revoke certificates of zoning compliance where provisions of this Title are
being violated;
((e)) Maintain permanent and current records of zoning code, including all
maps, amendments, conditional uses, interim uses and variations;
((f)) Provide and maintain public information relative to all matters arising out of
this title.
(2) Development Review Committee. The Development Review Committee consists
of city staff members appointed by the City Manager. The committee is
established to provide feedback and review of plans for conformance with the
technical requirements of this Title. The Development Review Committee can
make recommendations to the Planning Commission and City Council regarding
applications for land use approval. Discussions or recommendations that occur
from the Development Review Committee are not binding on the City and do not
constitute official assurances of the City.
(3) Planning Commission. As established and organized under Section X of the
Fridley City Code, the Planning Commission shall serve as an advisory body to the
City Council on all matters related to land use, zoning and community
development, except that the Planning Commission may unanimously approve
requests for variances for single family uses in the R-1 and R-H districts if the
staff recommendation and public hearing comments also support approval. As
directed by this Title, the Planning Commission shall hold public hearings. Review
of all applications are determined on the relationship to the Comprehensive Plan,
other approved City plans, and the ordinances amending this Title.
(4) City Council. The Council has the authority to adopt, amend, and repeal zoning
ordinances and conduct public hearings. They review and decide on development
and land use applications, oversee zoning compliance and enforce penalties for
violations.
6. Public Hearings
Procedures 3 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
239
Jufn!3/
(a) Public hearings required by this Chapter shall be conducted pursuant to the rules
established for each of the bodies, the City Code, and in compliance with state law.
(b) Upon official submission of a complete application requiring a public hearing, the
Community Development Director shall set a public hearing for the next available
regular meeting.
(c) Notice of the public hearing with the location of the meeting and a description of the
property and the application shall be published in the official newspaper of the City
no more than 30 days and no less than 10 days prior to the date of the hearing.
(d) Written notification of the public hearing shall also be mailed at least 10 business
days prior to the date of the hearing to the following recipients regardingthe
property in question:
(1) All property owners of record according to the county assessment records within
350 feet of the boundary of the subject property.
(2) If the proposed project abuts or includes a state trunk highway, a county state aid
road or a shoreland area, a copy of the application and notice of hearing shall be
provided to the Minnesota Department of Transportation (MNDOT), the Anoka
County Engineer or the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources, respectively.
(3) A copy of the notice and list of the individuals and/or property owners and
addresses to which the notices were sent shall be attested to by the Community
Development Director, and made part of the official record. The failure to give
mailed notice to individual property owners, or defects in the notice, shall not
invalidate the proceedings, provided a bona fide attempt to comply with this
division has been made.
(e) Written notification of the hearing may also be posted on the subject property in a
format that will be legible to those in the vicinity.
7. Planning Commission Action
(a) The Planning Commission shall hold the public hearing when required, or except as
otherwise provided herein. The applicant is encouraged to attend the public hearing.
(b) The Planning Commission shall have the authority to request additional information
from the applicant concerning operational factors, or to retain expert testimony with
the consent, and at the expense, of the applicant concerning operational factors. Said
information may include operational factors necessary to establish performance
conditions in relation to all pertinent sections of this chapter.
(c) Unless otherwise provided for by this Title, the Planning Commission shall make
findings of fact and recommend such actions or conditions relating to the request as
it deems necessary to carry out the intent and purpose of the chapter. Such
recommendation shall be in writing and accompanied by any report and
recommendation of the City staff.
(d) Where required by this Title, the Planning Commission shall review and recommend
approval, recommend approval with conditions, or recommend denial of the
application. Findings for the recommendation shall be stated and provided in writing.
Procedures 4 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
240
Jufn!3/
8. City Council Action
(a) The City Council shall have the option to set and hold a public hearing if deemed
necessary.
(b) Unless exempted by this Title, the City Council shall review and approve, approve
conditionally or deny the application. Findings for the decision shall be stated and
provided to the applicant in writing.
9. Actions after Approval
(a) Following the decision, the Community Development Director shall notify the
applicant of the decision and reasons thereof.
(b) The granting of a specific application by the City does not constitute, imply or
guarantee the granting of any other required approvals (e.g., a building permit).
(c) Recording. The City shall file all required documents, such as ordinances, resolutions
and agreements with County Recorder or Registrar of Title’s office within 90 days of
approval. Proof of recording shall be submitted to the applicant.
(d) If conditions of approval have been provided, they shall be satisfied by the applicant
within one year of the approval or as specified in the approval. If the applicant fails to
satisfy any of the conditions within the relevant timeframe, the approval shall be
deemed revoked or void applicable to the procedures in Section 650.05.
(e) Lapse of Approval by Non-Use
(1) If work as permitted by a land use or subdivision approval is not commenced
within one year after the approval was granted, then the approval shall become
null and void unless a written request for extension of time in which to complete
the work has been granted by the City Council. The request for an extension must
be approved prior to the original approval’s expiration.
(2) Such extension shall be requested in writing and filed with the City at least 20
days before the expiration of the original approval. The request for extension
shall state facts showing a good faith attempt to complete the work permitted in
the original approval and the reasons for requesting the extension.
(3) Such request shall be presented to the City Council for review and decision.
10. Withdrawal of Applications
(a) Any request for withdrawal of an application shall be submitted in writing by the
applicant to the Community Development Director.
(b) In all cases where the applicant has requested withdrawal of an application, the
associated fee paid and any costs incurred by the City in the processing of an
application shall not be refunded.
11. Successive Applications
(a) Whenever an application has been considered and denied by the City Council, a
similar application affecting substantially the same property will not be accepted by
the City for at least six months from the date of its denial; and a subsequent
Procedures 5 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
241
Jufn!3/
application affecting substantially the same property shall likewise not be accepted
by the City for an additional six months from the date of the second denial unless a
decision to reconsider such matter is made by not less than four-fifths vote of the full
City Council.
12. Permits Required
(a) No construction shall commence until the property owner(s) or their agent(s) obtain
and are issued all required permits from the City indicating that the existing or
proposed structure and the use of the land comply with this Title and all building
codes.
13.Certificate of Occupancy
(a) A certificate of occupancy shall be obtained for all new construction stating that all
provisions of this Chapter and the Chapter of the Fridley City Code entitled “Building
and Related Permit Fees” are in compliance.
(b) No permit or license required by the City of Fridley or other governmental agency
shall be issued by any department official or employee of the City of such
governmental agency, unless the application for such permit or license is
accompanied by proof of the issuance of a certificate of occupancy or certificate of
compliance.
14. Annexation
(a) Areas hereinafter annexed to the City of Fridley shall be considered to be in the R-1
District, and may be changed wholly or partly to any other District(s) only by an
amendment as provided for herein in Section 650.05, except where a different zoning
classification is established by and under any ordinance for the annexation of the
affected lands.
15. Common interest community (CIC) plats.
(a) All CIC plats prepared pursuant Minnesota Statutes, Chapters 505, 508, or 508A must
be reviewed and approved by the City Council after undergoing the preliminary plat
and final plat process identified in this article, except that the CIC plat does not have
to be signed by the City. If the Planning Commission recommends approval of the
preliminary CIC plat, the final CIC plat does not need to be reviewed by the Planning
Commission before City Council consideration.
(b) Developments using plats for common interest communities prepared pursuant to
Minnesota Statutes, Section 515B.2-1101(c) shall be subject to park dedication
requirements and other similar development fees applicable to subdivisions platted
under Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 505 and a copy of such plat shall be delivered to
the City no later than the date such plat is recorded.
650.02 CONCEPT PLANS
1. The Community Development Director may require or recommend a concept plan in
order to ensure that an applicant is informed of the procedural requirements, the
minimum standards of this chapter and the requirements or limitations imposed by
Procedures 6 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
242
Jufn!3/
other City ordinances, code provisions or plans prior to the development of a site or
preliminary plat.
2. If a concept plan is required by the City, the applicant shall submit a concept plan to the
Community Development Director prior to the filing of a land use application or a
preliminary plat.
3. Concept plans may also be submitted voluntarily by an applicant prior to a formal
application. At the time of submittal, the applicant may request a pre-application
meeting.
4. If a pre-application meeting is requested by the applicant or recommended by the City,
it is considered an informal discussion regarding the possible project subject to this Title.
The Community Development Director shall discuss the possible project with the
Development Review Committee.
5. The Community Development Director shall have the authority to refer the concept plan
to the Planning Commission and/or City Council for review and comment.
6. Comments or discussions on the concept plan shall not be considered binding on the
City in regard to subsequent development or plat review and do not constitute official
assurances or representations of the City, including any comments or discussions by the
City Council.
650.03 SITE RELATED PROCEDURES
1. Zoning Permit
(a) The purpose of a zoning permit is to ensure that exterior property improvements
meet code requirements prior to the installation of said improvements. This process
protects property owners from unnecessary costs of addressing noncompliant
improvements and protects adjacent properties that may be adversely affected by
noncompliant improvements.
(b) A zoning permit shall be required for any structure or site improvement exempt from
the State Building Code but regulated within this chapter, including, but not limited
to, decks and platforms less than 30 inches above adjacent grade and not attached
to a structure with frost footings; driveways; fences; patios; sheds less than 200
square feet in size; sidewalks and swimming pools (without footings).
(c) Zoning Permits are not required for those items otherwise permitted by the City (e.g.,
under a Critical Area Permit or Engineering Permit,), or those items that can be
reasonably relocated by the property owner without:
(1) use of heavy equipment;
(2) damage to the structure or site improvement, including its exterior surface;
(3) damage to the site where the structure or site improvement is located, including
the groundcover beneath the structure.
Procedures 7 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
243
Jufn!3/
(d) A zoning permit application shall be submitted in the format required by the City.
The application shall include a site plan depicting the requirements in Section 650.02
(2) (X).
(e)Zoning permits fortemporary uses.
(1) are valid for the time period stated on the approved permit (typically 14 days).
(2) A temporary zoning permit may not exceed 30 days. There must be 30 days
between repeated temporary zoning permits for the same location.
(3) A refundable deposit may be required with a zoning permit for a temporary use.
(f) No additional fee is required for a zoning permit unless the zoning permit
application requires an investigation or inspection by City Staff to ensure compliance
with this Title or other applicable sections of the City Code or document recording.
The applicant shall pay the established inspection/investigation and recording fees
prior to the City granting the zoning permit in accordance with Section XXX.
(g) The Community Development Director shall approve or deny the zoning permit
application. A zoning permit application will be denied if the proposed building,
structure or other improvement fails to meet all requirements of this Chapter or
other applicable provisions of this Title.
2. Site Plan Review
(a) A site plan shall be required for the following:
(1) Any residential building addition;
(2) All new residential developments with three or more units;
(3) New manufactured homes;
(4) Any nonresidential developments or projects, including but not limited to exterior
building improvements, additions and parking lots affecting four or more stalls;
and
(5) Demolitions.
(b) Site plan review may be part of a building permit approval process, or may be
included as part of the review process for other requests, such as conditional use
permits or variances.
(c) The Community Development Director shall approve or deny the site plan
application.
(d) All site improvements are to be secured at the rate of three percent of the total
project cost up to a maximum amount of $60,000, guaranteed by letter of credit in
favor of the City.
(e) The Council may waive the financial security requirement, but a performance
agreement would then be required from the land owner, requiring the work to be
done within a reasonable time to be fixed in the agreement, and if such
improvements are not completed within the time specified, the City may construct or
complete such improvements and assess the cost against the owner.
Procedures 8 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
244
Jufn!3/
3. Conditional Use Permit (CUP)
(a) Purpose
(1) The purpose of this Section is to provide the City with a reasonable degree of
discretion in determining the suitability of certain designated uses upon the
general welfare, public health and safety. In making this determination, the City
may consider the nature of the land upon which the use is to be located, the
nature of the adjoining land or buildings, the effect upon traffic into and from the
premises or on any adjoining roads and all such other factors as the City shall
reasonably deem requisite of consideration in determining the effect of such use
pursuant to Minnesota Statutes Section 462.3595, subdivision 1.
(b) Application Review
(1) An application shall be made and reviewed following the procedures in Section
650.01 (3).
(2) The City Council may grant such CUP with additional conditions and safeguards
therein.
(3) CUPs may be denied by a resolution of the Council. Such resolution shall identify
findings of fact with reasons for the denial.
(4) The City Council may require a written agreement and the deposit of a certified
check or funds, a letter of credit or other assurance of faithful observance of
conditions, the violation of which shall invalidate the permit and shall be
considered a violation of this Chapter.
(c) Findings for Approval. In considering applications for CUPs under this Title, the City
Council shall consider the advice and recommendations of the Planning Commission
and evaluate the following potential findings:
(1) The potential for the proposed use to be in harmony with the general purpose
and intent of the Zoning Code and the Comprehensive Plan;
(2) The effect of the proposed use upon the health, safety and general welfare of
occupants of surrounding lands;
(3) The existing and anticipated traffic conditions; and
(4) The effect on values of property in the surroundings.
(d) Revocation of Conditional Use Permit
(1) Failure to comply with any and all conditions and stipulations issued with a
Conditional Use Permit shall result in revocation of the Conditional Use Permit.
Revocation shall occur after a public hearing by the City Council and in
compliance with Minnesota Statutes Chapter 462.
(e) Amendments. All requested amendments to the conditions of an existing CUP shall
be processed in the same manner as a new application.
4. Interim Use Permit (IUP)
(a) The purposes for allowing interim uses are:
Procedures 9 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
245
Jufn!3/
(1) To allow a use for a temporary period of time until a permanent location is
obtained or while the permanent location is under construction;
(2) To allow a use that is presently judged acceptable by the City Council, but that
with anticipated development or redevelopment will not be acceptable in the
future or will be replaced in the future by a permitted or conditional use allowed
within the respective district;
(3) To allow a use that is seasonal in nature; or
(4) To allow a use for a limited period of time that reasonably uses the property
where it is not reasonable to use it in the manner otherwise provided in the
zoning ordinance or comprehensive plan.
(b) Application Review
(1) An IUP application shall be made and reviewed following the procedures in
Section XX.
(2) If an interim use is not already identified as a principal or accessory use in Tables
X and X, then the City Council may determine the use to be an interim use.
(c) Findings for Approval. No IUP may be granted unless the City Council determines
that the use will comply with the following:
(1) The use will not delay anticipated development or redevelopment of the site;
(2) The use will not adversely impact implementation of the Comprehensive Plan;
(3) The use will not be in conflict with provisions of the City Code on an ongoing
basis;
(4) The use will not adversely affect the adjacent property, the surrounding
neighborhood, or other uses on the property where the use will be located;
(5) The date or event that will terminate the use can be identified with certainty;
(6) The use will not impose additional unreasonable costs on the public;
(7) The applicant has signed a consent agreement stating that the applicant, owner,
operator, tenant and/or user has no entitlement to future re-approval of the
interim use permit and that the interim use permit will not impose additional
costs on the public if it is necessary for the public to fully or partially take the
property in the future; and
(8) The applicant agrees in writing to any conditions that the City Council deems
appropriate for the use including the requirement for a financial security to
ensure removal of all evidence of the use upon termination.
(d) Effect of Permit
(1) An IUP is effective only for the location specified in the permit.
(2) An IUP, including any conditions, shall run with the land and shall not be affected
by a change in ownership of the property unless it is stated in the interim use
permit that a change in ownership of the property will terminate the interim use
permit.
Procedures 10 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
246
Jufn!3/
(3) The issuance of an IUP does not confer on the property any vested right.
(e) Termination
(1) An IUP expires and the interim use must terminate at the earlier of:
((a)) The expiration date of the IUP;
((b)) The occurrence of any event identified in the IUP for the termination of
the use;
((c)) Revocation of the IUP; or
((d)) An amendment to the city code that no longer allows the interim use.
(2) An IUP expires if the interim use ceases operation for a continuous period of at
least one year.
(f) IUP Renewal
(1) The property owner may initiate renewal of an IUP set to expire. Application
requirements for renewal of an existing IUP shall be the same as for a new
application.
(2) Upon receiving a complete application for an IUP renewal, the City shall send
notice of the requested renewal to all property owners within 350 feet of the
parcel(s) containing the interim use. If any objections are raised within 10 days of
the mailed notice, the application shall be processed in the manner of a new
application.
(3) If no objections are raised, the City shall prepare a resolution to approve,
outlining the conditions and stipulations of renewal for consideration by the City
Council. The City Council at its discretion may approve or deny the request with
findings. Denial of a renewal request does not constitute termination of the
existing IUP.
(4) Revoked interim use permits shall not be renewed.
(g) Revocation of an IUP
(1) The City Council may review an IUP periodically and may revoke a permit upon
violation of any condition of the permit, any state or federal law, or any city
ordinance.
(2) If it is discovered after approval of the IUP that the City’s decision was based at
least in part on false, misleading or fraudulent information, the City Council may
revoke the permit to ensure compliance with this section.
(3) The procedure for revocation of an IUP will be the same as that for CUPs
specified in this section.
(h) Amendments. All requested amendments to the conditions of an existing IUP shall be
processed in the same manner as a new application.
5. Administrative Nonconforming Expansion Permit
Procedures 11 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
247
Jufn!3/
(a) The City may permit an expansion of a legal nonconforming structure imposing
reasonable regulations to prevent a public nuisance or protect the public health,
welfare and safety pursuant to Minnesota Statute Section 462.357, Subd. 1(e)(b).
(b)A nonconforming structure may onlybe expanded if the expansion does not increase
the nonconformity present and meets the relevant land use regulations, including
but not limited to lot coverage, setbacks and height.
(c) Application Review
(1) In order to be able to legally expand a structure that is nonconforming, an
application for a nonconforming expansion permit must be made to the City.
(2) An expansion permit for a nonconforming structure may be granted by the
Community Development Director if the applicant meets the following findings
for approval:
((a)) The expansion does not increase or intensify the existing nonconformity;
((b)) The expansion would be architecturally compatible with the existing
principal structure;
((c)) There is adequate off-street parking for the expansion;
((d)) There is an absence of adverse off-site impacts from such things as traffic,
vision safety, noise, dust, odors and parking;
((e)) The expansion is an improvement to the appearance and stability of the
property and neighborhood as the proposed expansion would meet all
currently existing zoning and building code requirements; and
((f)) The expansion would be compatible with the character of the neighborhood.
(3) The Community Development Director may impose reasonable conditions on the
expansion permit approval related to health and safety. All other applicable
permits will need to be obtained by the applicant in addition to the expansion
permit.
(d) Terms of Expansion Permit
(1) An expansion permit granted by the City will run with the land and will be
perpetual unless no building permit has been issued or substantial work
performed within one year of the approval, in which case the permit will be null
and void.
(2) The Community Development Director may extend the period for construction
upon finding that the interest of the owners of neighboring properties will not be
adversely affected by such extension. If the expansion permit is part of an
approved site and building plan, extension of the time period of construction will
be contingent upon a similar extension of the time period for the site and
building plan by the Community Development Director. Once the project is
completed as approved, the expansion permit runs with the land.
(e) Violation of Nonconforming Expansion Permit
Procedures 12 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
248
Jufn!3/
(1) Any person who violates, fails to comply with or assists, directs or permits the
violation of the terms or conditions of an expansion permit is guilty of a
misdemeanor.
(2) A violation of the expansion permit shall result in revocation of the expansion
permit. Revocation shall occur after a public hearing by the City Council.
(3) A violation also constitutes a public nuisance that may be abated by the City in
accordance with the provisions of Chapter 401.
6. Variance
(a) Purpose
(1) The purpose of a variance is to provide for deviations from the literal provisions
of this Title in instances where their strict enforcement would cause practical
difficulties because of circumstances unique to the individual property under
consideration, and to grant such variances only when it is demonstrated that such
actions will be in keeping with the spirit and intent of this Title.
(b) Application Review
(1) An application shall be made and reviewed following the procedures in Section
XX. Within the application, the applicant shall state the exceptional conditions
and practical difficulties claimed as a basis for a variance.
(2) The City Council may impose reasonable conditions in the granting of a variance
that the Council considers necessary to protect adjacent properties or the public
health, safety, and welfare.
(3) Findings of Fact. In considering applications for variances under this Title, the City
Council shall consider the advice and recommendations of the Planning
Commission and determine the following findings for approval:
((a)) The variance is in harmony with the general purposes and intent of this
Chapter;
((b))The variance is consistent with the Comprehensive Plan; and
((c)) The variance meets the criteria of a practical difficulty. Practical difficulty
means:
((1)) The property owner proposes to use the property in a reasonable
manner not permitted by the Zoning Code;
((2)) The plight of the landowner is due to circumstances unique to the
property not created by the landowner; and
((3)) The variance, if granted, will not alter the essential character of the
locality.
((4)) Economic considerations alone do not constitute practical
difficulties.
((5)) Practical difficulties include, but are not limited to, inadequate
access to direct sunlight for solar energy systems.
Procedures 13 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
249
Jufn!3/
((6)) Variances shall be granted for earth sheltered construction as
defined in Minnesota Statutes Section 216C.06, subdivision 14, when in
harmony with this Title.
(c)Variances in R-1 and R-H ZoningDistricts
(1) In areas zoned R-1 and R-H, the Planning Commission has the authority to grant
final approval of variances when all of the following conditions are met:
((a)) There is unanimous agreement of the Planning Commission.
((b)) The staff concurs with the recommendations of the Planning Commission.
((c)) The general public attending the meeting or responding to the notice of
public hearing have no objection.
((d)) The applicant is in agreement with the recommendation.
(2) When the above conditions are not met, the variance request must be reviewed
by the City Council.
7. Vacation of Right-of-Way or Easement
(a) Application Review
(1) A party desiring to vacate any public right-of-way or easement may file a written
petition with the City. The request shall be on a City application form, include any
additional documentation required by the City, and include the fee established in
Chapter 209 of the City Code. The petition must be signed by a majority of the
owners of the land abutting the right-of-way or easement. The City Council, on its
own initiative, may also by resolution vacate any public right-of-way or easement.
(2) The City Council shall conduct a public hearing as specified in Section XX above,
except that the public hearing shall be preceded by two weeks’ published and
posted notice in accordance with Minnesota Statutes 412.851. Failure of a
property owner to receive notice shall not invalidate any such proceedings as set
forth within this Chapter.
((a)) If a public right-of-way or easement included in a vacation application
adjoins a body of public water, a written notice must be sent by certified mail
to the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources at
least 60 days before the hearing on the matter. At least 15 days prior to
convening the hearing required under this section, the City must consult with
the Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to
review the proposed vacation.
(3) The City Council shall follow such procedures as established by the City Charter
for approval of vacation requests.
(b) Reservation of Interest. The City Council may specify the extent to which such
vacation affects existing easements therein and the extent to which the vacation
affects the authority of any person, corporation or city owning or controlling electric
or telephone poles and lines, gas and sewer lines, or water pipes, mains and
hydrants, thereon or thereunder, to continue to maintain the same or to enter upon
Procedures 14 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
250
Jufn!3/
such public right of way or portion thereof vacated to maintain, repair, replace,
remove or otherwise attend thereto.
8. Process for Transit Oriented Development (TOD) Plan Approval
(a) Project plans will be reviewed by the Planning Commission, who will provide a
recommendation to the City Council. The City Council shall have final authority to
approve all project plans.
(b) Plans for each individual project or combination of projects in the TOD District must
be submitted upon payment of any required fee as provided in Chapter 11.
(c)One unit detached dwelling development projects located within the R-H, Hyde Park
Zoning District are exempt from following the TOD design standards and the plan
review process.
(d) Project plans submitted to the Planning Commission and City Council shall include
the following minimum criteria:
(1) Scaled site plans, showing the location of buildings, off-street parking, street and
utility locations, auto and pedestrian access to and from the project, any
modification to existing services, grading plans, storm water plans, building
exterior finish, lighting and signing, TOD streetscape features, and landscape
plans.
(2) Written city staff review on project compatibility to the overall Transit Oriented
Development District.
(e) Any substantial modification to the plan must be submitted through the Planning
Commission and approved by the City Council.
9. Process for S-2 District Approval
(a) Plans for each individual project or combination of projects must be submitted, upon
payment of any required fee as provided in Chapter 11 herein, to the City for review
according to the procedures listed in Section 205.05.4 of the zoning code. The City
Council shall have final authority to approve all project plans.
(b) Project plans submitted to the Planning Commission and City Council shall include
the following minimum information:
(1) Site plans showing the location of buildings, off street parking, street and utility
locations, auto and pedestrian access to and from the project, any modification
to existing services, grading plans, storm water plans, building exterior finish,
lighting and signing and landscape plans.
(2) Written City staff review of the project plans on the project’s compatibility to the
City’s overall redevelopment plan.
(3) Review and recommendation of the project plans to the City Council from the
Fridley Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA).
(c) Any substantial modification to the project plans must be submitted to the Planning
Commission for review and approved by the City Council.
Procedures 15 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
251
Jufn!3/
650.04 SUBDIVISION PROCEDURES
1.Applicability.The requirements of this chaptershall apply to all subdivision applications
subject to development review under this Code unless otherwise stated.
2. Exemptions. As defined in Minnesota Statutes Section 462.352, subdivision approval by
the City is not required for any of the following:
(a) Separations where all the resulting parcels, tracts, lots or interests will be 20 acres or
larger in size and 500 feet in width for residential uses and five acres or larger in size
for commercial and industrial uses;
(b) Separations creating cemetery lots;
(c) Separations resulting from court orders; or
(d) Separations resulting from the adjustment of a lot line by the relocation of a
common boundary.
3. Conditions for Recording. No plat or subdivision shall be entitled to be recorded in the
County Recorder or Registrar of Titles' office or have any validity until the plat thereof
has been prepared, approved and acknowledged in the manner prescribed by this
chapter.
4. Denial of Plats
(a) The City may deny the subdivision if it makes any one or more of the following
findings:
(1) That the proposed subdivision is in conflict with the City’s Comprehensive Plan or
any specific area plans of the City;
(2) That the physical characteristics of this site, including but not limited to
topography, soil conditions, susceptibility to flooding, water storage, drainage,
and retention, are such that the site is not suitable for the type of development,
design or use contemplated;
(3) That the site is not physically suitable for the proposed density of development;
(4) That the design of the subdivision or the proposed improvements are likely to
cause environmental damage;
(5) That the design of the subdivision or the type of improvements are likely to cause
public health problems;
(6) That the design of the subdivision or the type of improvements will conflict with
easements of record or with easements established by judgment of a court;
(7) That the proposed subdivision, its site or its design adversely affects the flood-
carrying capacity of the floodway, increases flood stages and velocities or
increases flood hazards within the floodway fringe or within other areas of the
city;
(8) That the proposed subdivision is inconsistent with the policies and standards of
the state-defined Shoreland, Floodplain, and Critical Area Districts; or
(9) That the design of the subdivision does not conform to minimum City standards.
Procedures 16 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
252
Jufn!3/
5. Registered Land Surveys.
(1) Registered land surveys shall not be used to avoid the requirements of this title.
(2) All registered land surveys shall be prepared in conformance with Minnesota
Statutes Section 508.47, subdivision 4.
(3) A registered land survey shall be reviewed by the Planning Commission and
approved by the City Council in the same manner as a preliminary plat, including
holding the requisite public hearing. Unless the registered land survey has been
approved by the City Council, building permits will be withheld by the City for
buildings on tracts which have been subdivided by registered land surveys, and
the City may refuse to take over tracts that are to be used as streets or roads or
to improve, repair, or maintain any such tracts unless the registered land survey is
approved by the City Council.
6. Conveyance by Metes and Bounds.
(a) No conveyance of land to which the regulations of this Chapter are applicable shall
be filed or recorded if the land is:
(1) described in the conveyance by metes and bounds;
(2) described by reference to an unapproved registered land survey made after April
21, 1961; or
(3) described by reference to an unapproved plat made after such regulations
become effective.
The preceding shall not apply if the conveyance is one of the exceptions identified in
Minnesota Statutes 462.358, subdivision 4b.
(b) In any case in which compliance with the foregoing restrictions will create an
unnecessary hardship and failure to comply does not interfere with the purpose of
this Chapter, the City Council may waive such compliance by adoption of a resolution
to that effect and the conveyance may then be filed or recorded.
7.Administrative Adjustment
(a) Applicability. An administrative adjustment application shall be submitted to the City
when any of the following apply:
(1) An applicant is proposing to relocate a property line(s) without increasing or
decreasing the number of parcels and where all parcels meet Code requirements;
or
(2) Zero lot line subdivision.
(b) The Community Development Director may approve administrative adjustments.
(c) Submittal and Approval Process. Applications for an administrative adjustment shall
be made on forms furnished by the City and reviewed by the Community
Development Director.
(1) The Community Development Director shall review the application and plans and
determine if further review by the Development Review Committee is required.
Procedures 17 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
253
Jufn!3/
(2) The Community Development Director shall confirm as part of the review process
whether consent by a mortgage holder is required.
(3) The Community Development Director shall provide the applicant with written
notice of the decision and reasons for approval or denial.
(4) Approved plans shall be recorded among the records of the County within 180
days after the date of the approval or resolution, unless a longer period of time is
granted and provided for recording at the time of approval.
(5) A plan not recorded within a period of 180 days, or the approved extension time,
is deemed to be one that is not approved and such subdivision is not entitled to
be recorded; and the same shall not thereafter be recorded except and unless it is
presented to the Planning Commission and Council and re-approved.
(d) Requirements for a Zero Lot Line Subdivision
(1) All other zoning requirements in the respective districts except for the setbacks
along the zero lot line(s) must be met. Lots shall be divided equally as is
reasonably possible within the restrictions of the existing guidelines of the
Zoning Chapter.
(2) Separate meters must be provided to each dwelling unit for water, electricity and
natural gas. In addition, the common party wall(s) fire rating shall be one hour for
existing structure and two, one-hour walls for new construction.
(3) The owner of the property shall execute and record at their expense a
"Declaration of Covenants, Conditions and Restrictions" as provided by the City.
The said document shall be used to protect the rights of the individual owners
sharing the single structure to maintain and repair any in case of damage to the
original structure. The declarations, covenants, conditions and restrictions shall
provide protection to the property owners and the City on the following objects:
((a)) Building and use restrictions.
((b)) Party walls.
((c)) Maintenance and use of any common area.
((d)) Relationships among owners of adjoining units and resolution of disputes.
(4) City consent shall be required in order to amend the declarations, covenants,
conditions and restrictions.
8. Minor Subdivision
(a) Applicability. An application for a minor subdivision shall be submitted to the City
when all of the following apply:
(1) An applicant is proposing to divide land by the owner or applicant resulting in
the creation of not more than three (3) parcels or building sites, where all parcels
meet Code requirements;
Procedures 18 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
254
Jufn!3/
(2) The land has been previously subdivided by plat or Registered Land Survey and is
on file and of record in the office of the County Recorder or Registrar of Title’s
Office;
(3) The application will not cause the parcel or any structure on the parcel to be in
violation of this Code or the building code;
(4) With the exception of sidewalks or trails, the application will not involve the
construction of any new street or road, the extension of municipal facilities, the
creation of any public improvements, or the dedication of any public easements;
and
(5) The application does not involve an outlot.
(b) Application Review
(1) Applications for a minor subdivision shall be made in a format prescribed by the
City. The applicant shall submit legal descriptions of the proposed parcels and a
survey showing the proposed parcels prepared by a licensed land surveyor.
(2) If the Community Development Director determines that the minor subdivision
process is being used repeatedly to avoid the preliminary plat process or is
impacting adjacent parcels or the City’s ability to provide services in the
neighborhood, the Community Development Director will require the applicant
to complete the preliminary plat process.
(3) The application shall be processed in accordance with the Section 650.01,
including a public hearing at the Planning Commission prior to consideration by
the City Council
(4) Approved minor subdivisions shall be recorded among the property records of
the County within 180 days after the date of the approval or resolution, unless a
longer period of time is granted and provided for recording at the time of
approval.
(5) A minor subdivision not recorded within a period of 180 days, or the approved
extension time, is deemed to be one that is not approved and such subdivision is
not entitled to be recorded; and the same shall not thereafter be recorded except
and unless it is presented to the Planning Commission and Council and re-
approved.
(c) Preliminary Plat
(1) Applicability. A preliminary plat application shall be submitted to the City when
the proposed subdivision does not qualify as an administrative adjustment or
minor subdivision.
(2) Application Review
((a)) An applicant shall prepare a preliminary plat of a subdivision before
preparing a final plat.
((b)) The applicant shall submit the preliminary plat together with all required
accompanying material on forms furnished by the City.
Procedures 19 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
255
Jufn!3/
((c)) The application shall be processed in accordance with the Section 650.01,
including a public hearing at the Planning Commission prior to consideration
by the City Council.
(3)Actions after Approval
((a)) All preliminary plats must be final platted into lots, blocks, and outlots
within one year of preliminary plat approval or the preliminary plat approval
shall be null and void.
((b)) An extension from this requirement may be granted by the City Council
upon request. An extension shall be requested in writing and filed with the
City at least 14 days before the voidance of the approved preliminary plat.
There shall be no charge for the filing of such request. The request for
extension shall state facts showing a good faith attempt was made to meet
the final plat submission requirement and the reasons for the extension.
((c)) If an amendment to a preliminary plat is requested, it shall follow the
same process as a new preliminary plat, except that no public hearing will be
required if the opinion of the Community Development Director is that the
scope of change does not constitute a new preliminary plat. A filing fee shall
be charged for amendment processing.
(d) Effect of Subdivision Approval
(1) For one year following preliminary approval and for two years following final
approval, unless the applicant and the City agree otherwise, no amendment to a
comprehensive plan or official control shall apply to or affect the use,
development density, lot size, lot layout or dedication or platting required or
permitted by the approved application.
(2) Pursuant to its regulations, the City may extend the period by agreement with the
applicant and subject to all applicable performance conditions and requirements,
or it may require submission of a new application unless substantial physical
activity and investment has occurred in reasonable reliance on the approved
application and the applicant will suffer substantial financial damage as a
consequence of a requirement to submit a new application.
(3) In connection with a subdivision involving planned and staged development, the
City may by resolution or agreement grant the rights referred to herein for such
periods of time longer than two years which it determines reasonable and
appropriate.
650.05 ORDINANCE AMENDMENT (TEXT OR MAP)
1. Purpose
(a) Whenever the public necessity, convenience, general welfare or good zoning practice
requires, the City Council may by ordinance:
Procedures 20 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
256
Jufn!3/
(1) Amend, change or supplement the text of the regulations established by this
Title; or
(2) Change the district boundaries established by this Title and the Zoning Map
incorporated herein.
2. Initiation for Amendment. A request to amend this Title or Zoning Map may be made by:
(a) Any property owner or representative of a property owner of a subject property; or
(b) The City Council or the Planning Commission.
3. Application Review.
(a) The Planning Commission shall hold a public hearing, review the application and
provide a recommendation to Council as specified in Section XX.
(b) The City Council shall review the application following the process for approval of an
ordinance as required under the Fridley City Charter.
(c) After review, the Council, by majority vote, may adopt amendments to this Title or
the Zoning Map.
4. S-2 District Process for Approval
(a) The procedure for the establishment of an S-2 Special District shall follow the
amendment procedure as laid out above, and shall clearly describe the purpose for
the amendment and the district boundaries.
(b) If initiated by a property owner or a property owner’s representative, plans for each
individual project or combination of projects must be submitted, upon payment of
any required fee as provided in Chapter 11 herein, to the Planning Commission and
Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA),for review and recommendation to the
City Council according to the procedures listed in Section 205.05.4. of the zoning
code. The City Council shall have final authority to approve all project plans.
(c) If initiated by a property owner or a property owner’s representative, materials for
review provided to the Planning Commission and City Council shall include the
following:
(1) Site plans from the applicant showing the location of buildings, off street parking,
street and utility locations, auto and pedestrian access to and from the project,
any modification to existing services, grading plans, storm water plans, building
exterior finish, lighting and signing and landscape plans.
(2) Written City staff review on project compatibility to the overall redevelopment
plan.
(3) Review and recommendation to the City Council from the Fridley Housing and
Redevelopment Authority (HRA).
5. Any substantial modification to the project plans, as determined by the Community
Development Director, must be reviewed by the Planning Commission and HRA and
approved by the City Council.
Procedures 21 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
257
Jufn!3/
650.06 APPEALS
1. Appeal of Decision.
(a) Purpose. The purpose of this section is to provide for an appeal process where it is
alleged that there is an error in any order, requirement, decision, or determination by
the City or in the enforcement of this Chapter.
(b) An appeal shall be filed by any aggrieved person not later than 30 days after the
original applicant has received a determination from their initial application with a
written notice to the Community Development Director. If the appeal is not filed by
the deadline, the appeal shall be considered void.
2. Appeals of Administrative Decisions.
(a) Any person aggrieved by an alleged error in any order, requirement, decision, or
determination made by the Community Development Director in the enforcement of
this Chapter may request a hearing before the Planning Commission. The appeal
must be made in writing to the Community Development Director, and must clearly
describe the code section under appeal, the facts of the matter, and the mailing
address of the owner, and must be accompanied by the required fee.
(b) The Planning Commission, serving as the Board of Adjustment and Appeals, shall,
after receiving the written report and recommendation of City staff, make findings of
fact and make a decision on appeals where it is alleged by the appellant that error
has occurred in any order, requirement, decision, or determination made by the
Community Development Director in the enforcement of this Title, and for variances
from the literal provisions of this Title.
(c) The Planning Commission shall render a decision on the appeal within 60 days from
the date upon which the application for the appeal was deemed complete, unless
extended by the City or the applicant as permitted by Minnesota Statutes Section
15.99 and any amendments thereto.
(d) The Planning Commission shall provide for a written record or video recording of its
proceedings which shall include the minutes of its meeting, its findings and the
recommendation, approval, or denial of each matter heard by it.
3. Appeals of Planning Commission Decisions.
(a) Appeals from decisions of the Planning Commission acting as the Board of
Adjustments and Appeals must be heard by the City Council as provided for by
Minnesota Statutes, Section 462.354, before any judicial review under Minnesota
Statutes, Section 462.361 may be initiated.
(b) An application for appeal to the City Council, requesting the Council to reconsider
the decision of the Planning Commission, shall be received no later than 30 days
after the date the Planning Commission has issued its written findings of fact and
decision. The application for appeal shall set forth reasons that the appeal is justified
in order to make reasonable use of the land, structure or building.
Procedures 22 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
258
Jufn!3/
(c) A fee shall be charged pursuant to the fees chapter. The fee shall accompany the
application request by the appellant and shall not be refundable.
(d) The City Council shall take action on the appellant's request within a reasonable time
after the appellant's written request and the application fee has been received by the
Community Development Director or their designee.
4. Appeals of City Council Decisions.
(a) Any aggrieved person shall have the right to appeal any land use decision by the City
Council to the Anoka County District Court.
(b) All decisions made by the City Council regarding subdivision shall be final, except
that any aggrieved person shall have the right to appeal to the Anoka County District
Court.
650.07 ENFORCEMENT
1. Any violation of or failure to comply with this Chapter is a misdemeanor and is subject to
all penalties provided for such violations under the provisions of Chapter 204 Penalties)
of this Code.
2. Any such person who, having been served with an order to remove any such violation,
continues to violate any provisions of the regulations made under authority of this
Chapter, or failing to comply with said order to remove any such violation, within a
reasonable period of time, not less than 20 days from the date of the notice, shall be
guilty of a misdemeanor and subject to all penalties provided for such violations under
the provisions of Chapter 204 of this Code.
3. Each day that such violation continues shall be a separate violation.
Procedures 23 4/11/2025
FR520\\21\\1019774.v1
259
Jufn!4/
AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date:April 16, 2025 Meeting Type:Planning Commission
Submitted By:Stacy Stromberg, Planning Manager
Title
Review Commission Onboarding Manual
Background
valuable information about the operation of local government, the roles and responsibilities of
commission members, and the general operatingpolicies. It was developed for Commissioners new to
their role, however it also is a good resource and tool for existing Commissioners.
Please review the attached manual and sign the acknowledgement found on the last page. Staff will
answer any questions the Commissioners may have at the meeting.
Financial Impact
None
Recommendation
Staff recommend the Commission review the manual and sign and return the acknowledgement.
Attachments and Other Resources
Commission Onboarding Manual
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
260
Jufn!4/
Commission
Onboarding Manual
261
Jufn!4/
CommissionOnboardingManual
Welcome,
On behalf of the City of Fridley, I would like to extend my gratitude for your willingness to serve
our community as a member of one of our commissions. Your dedication to volunteering your
time, expertise, and passion is truly commendable and essential tothe growth and development
of our City.
Our mission remains clear: "We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for
families and businesses." This vision guides everything we do, and your role as a commission
member is crucial in helping us achieve this goal.Whether you're serving on the Planning
Commission, Parks and Recreation Commission, Environmental Quality and Energy Commission,
Charter Commission, Public Arts Commission or the Housing & Redevelopment Authority, your
unique perspectives and experiences will contribute significantly to shaping the future of Fridley.
This handbook is designed to provide you with valuable information about the operation of our
local government, the roles and responsibilities of commission members, and the general
operating policies that will guide your service. It serves as a resource to support you in your efforts
to fulfill the City's mission.
Once again, thank you for stepping forward to serve our great City. I am confident that you will
find this experience rewarding, and I look forward to the positive impact your contributions will
have on Fridley.
Dave Ostwald
Mayor, City of Fridley
262
Jufn!4/
CommissionOnboardingManual
Table of Contents
Purpose...............................................................................................................................................................................4
City Government Overview..........................................................................................................................................4
Commissions Overview.................................................................................................................................................6
Types of Commissions...............................................................................................................................................10
Be an Effective Commission Member...................................................................................................................14
Commission Meeting Procedure............................................................................................................................18
Acknowledgement.......................................................................................................................................................21
Appendix and Other Resources..............................................................................................................................22
263
Jufn!4/
CommissionOnboardingManual
Purpose
This handbook is designed to serve as a guide to general policies and procedures that apply to
commission membersfor the City of Fridley (City). As a new Commission member, we recommend
you review the City's mission, recent agendas and minutes from your appointed commission to
understand ongoing issues.
While not exhaustive, this manual outlines key expectations and practices to guide your service,
summarizes how commissions relate to overall City operations, and provides a foundation for your
role. It's designed to be a helpful reference, but does not incorporate all material and information
necessary to be an effective member of a commission.Remember that your commission liaison is
always available for additional support or clarification.
City Government Overview
This section provides an overview of the City’sgovernance structure, outlining the roles and
responsibilities of key entities and individuals involved in City operations. Understanding this
structure will help you navigate your role as a commission member more effectively.
Form of Government
The City operates under a council-manager form of government, as established by the City
Charter. In this system, the Council acts as the policy-making and legislative body, while the City
Manager is responsible for the day-to-day administration of the City. Residents of Fridley are
represented by the Mayor and four Councilmembers.
Mayorand Council
The Mayor and the Council are elected positions and are collectively referred to as ‘the Council’.
The Council relies on the six commissions to guide them on decision making as it relates to the
special interests of said commission. Generally, the Council appoints members to commissions
and can remove members from commissions.
Commissions
Commissions are vital components of Fridley's governance structure, established by the City
Charter provision, City Code, and/or Statute. As a Commission Member, you play a crucial role in
providing ongoing input on major policy areas and helping shape the future of Fridley.
Responsibilities of Commission Members:
Attend and actively participate in all commission meetings, ensuring thorough review and
discussion of agenda items.
4
Top of Document
264
Jufn!4/
Provide ongoing recommendations to the Council and staff regarding your commission's
specific focus area.
Identify issues within your commission's purview that should be addressed by the Council
or staff.
Engage with the community to gather input and provide education on policy issues and
concerns related to your commission's work.
Collaborate with other commission members to develop comprehensive and well-
considered recommendations.
Stay informed about current issues, trends, and best practices relevant to your
commission's area of focus.
Represent your commission at community events or meetings when appropriate.
This manual provides more detailed information on each commission in the Types of Commission
section.
City Manager
The City Manager is responsible for the overall management of City operations, including
budgeting, planning, personnel, legal issues, economic development, and intergovernmental
functions. The City Manager serves as a key liaison between the Council, city staff, and
commissions. They can be thought of as the chief executive officer.
Department Directors
City work is divided into six departments with department directors: Community Development,
Employee Resources, Finance, Parks and Recreation, Public Safety and Public Works. The
Department Directors play an integral role in ensuring the effective and efficient functioning of
the City. They provide the specialized knowledge, leadership, and management to translate the
Council initiatives and priorities into tangible projects and services that benefit the community. As
a commission member, you may interact with Department Directors when the Director also acts
as a staff liaison or their expertise is relevant to your commission's work.
City Attorney
The City contracts legal services to external firms. The City Attorney provides legal advice and
attends Council meetings as needed. If your commission requires legal guidance, this should be
coordinated through your staff liaison and the City Manager.
Staff and Departments
City staff are responsible for carrying out the day-to-day operations of the City. They implement
policies set by the Council, provide services to residents, and support the work of commissions
through staff liaisons. Each commission is assigned a staff liaison who serves as a primary point
of contact between the commission and city administration. Staff liaisons assist with meeting
preparation, provide information and resources, coordinate with other departments, and help
facilitate the implementation of commission recommendations.
5
Top of Document
265
Jufn!4/
Staff fall into seven departments, each playing a vital role in city governance:
1. City Manager's Office: This department oversees city administration, implements Council
policies, maintains the City Code and the City Charter and serves as a key liaison between
the Council, city departments, and commissions. This department works closely with the
Charter Commission.
2. Community Development: This department oversees planning, zoning, building
inspections, and economic development. It often works closely with the Planning
Commission, Environmental Quality and Energy Commission, and Public Arts Commission
and may interact with other commissions on development-related matters.
3. Employee Resources: Managing human resources, recruitment, and employee benefits,
this department ensures the City has the personnel needed to carry out its functions
effectively.
4. Finance: Handling budgeting, accounting, and financial reporting, the Finance department
plays a crucial role in the city's fiscal health. Its work may inform decisions across all
commissions.
5. Parks and Recreation: This department organizes recreational programs and establishes
policies for use of Fridley’s park system. It works closely with the Parks and Recreation
Commission and may collaborate with others on environmental or community
engagement initiatives.
6. Public Safety: Encompassing both police and fire services, this department ensures
community safety. While it may not frequently interact with most commissions, its work is
fundamental to the city's well-being.
7. Public Works: Managing city infrastructure, including roads, water, and sewer systems, this
department's work often intersects with various commission concerns, from environmental
issues to city planning.
Commissions Overview
Commissions play a vital role in Fridley's governance structure, serving as advisory bodies to the
Council. As a commission member, you are an essential part of the City's decision-making process,
providing expertise and community perspective on important issues.
Legal Authority and Responsibility
This section outlines the legal basis for Fridley's commissions and your responsibilities as a
commission member. Understanding this framework is crucial for effective service and ensuring
that your actions align with the City's governance structure and legal requirements.
The City of Fridley, as a Home Rule Charter City, has the authority to establish commissions as
part of its governance structure. This authority is derived from the Minnesota Constitution and
various statutes that allow cities to create their form of government.
Commissions derive their authority and responsibilities from the City Charter, ordinances, or
resolutions that establish them. Some commissions are also required or authorized by state
6
Top of Document
266
Jufn!4/
statute. To ensure effective service, each commission member should be well-informed about the
matters presented to their commission, understanding their implications and potential
consequences.
The specific powers and duties of each commission are outlined in the establishing ordinance or
resolution. These may include (but are not limited to):
Providing recommendations to the Council on specific policy areas
Conducting research and analysis on specialized topics
Engaging with the community to gather input on relevant issues
Reviewing and providing input on proposed city projects or initiatives
Commission members serve in a nonpartisan capacity, and all actions taken should prioritize the
public's welfare. When considering actions or recommendations, commission members should be
familiar with their responsibilities and powers as outlined in the relevant laws, regulations and
bylaws. It's essential to act transparently, honestly, and in good faith, following all legal and
procedural requirements. When uncertain about the appropriateness or legality of an action, it's
always prudent to consult with the commission's staff liaison.
Roles and Responsibilities
This section outlines the key roles within the commission structure and their responsibilities,
helping you understand your position as a commission member and how you interact with other
city entities.
Role of Chair and Vice Chairs
Chairs of commissions are appointed by the Council, with the vice chair being elected by the
commission members. The Charter Commission and the Housing Redevelopment Authority are
exceptions because their Chair and Vice Chair are appointed by the procedure in their by-laws.
Generally, the Chair presides at all official meetings and generally ensures that the Commission
reviews and acts upon the items on the agenda. The Chair should ensure that decisions are made
in a timely manner, yet be careful not to limit discussion-assuring that commission members have
an opportunity to be heard. The vice chair aids the chair in these responsibilities and acts as the
Chair when the Chair cannot attend a meeting.
Responsibilities of the Chair:
Lead all commission meetings
Work with the staff liaison to set meeting agendas
Facilitate discussions and ensure all members have a chance to contribute.
Maintain control of the meeting, including managing public input and interactions
Act as the primary liaison between the commission and the Council when necessary
7
Top of Document
267
Jufn!4/
Staff Liaison
Each commission is assigned a member of staff called a staff liaison. The staff liaison actsas a
crucial link between the commission and city staff. The staff liaison typically has expertise in the
commission's area of focus. Their role is to support the commission's work and ensure effective
communication between the commission, city staff, and the Council.
Key responsibilities of staff liaisons include:
1. Meeting Preparation: Generate meeting agendas, compile necessary background
information, and ensure materials are distributed to commission members in a timely
manner.
2. Information and Expertise: Provide professional knowledge and insights related to the
commission's area of focus. This may include updates on city projects, explanations of
policies or regulations, and context for issues under consideration.
3. Administrative Support: Assist with scheduling meetings, securing meeting locations, and
managing commission-related correspondence.
4. Facilitation: Help guide discussions during meetings, ensuring that conversations remain
productive and aligned with the commission's goals and responsibilities.
5. Council Communication: Work with the commission to prepare and present
recommendations to the Council. This includes drafting reports and helping commission
members understand the Council's decision-making process.
6. Orientation and Training: Assist in onboarding new commission members, providing
them with necessary background information and explaining commission procedures.
7. Compliance Oversight: Ensure that the commission operates in compliance with relevant
laws, including open meeting laws and data practices regulations.
8. Resource Coordination: Connect the commission with other city departments, external
experts, or resources as needed to support their work.
9. Continuity: Provide historical context and institutional knowledge to support the
commission's ongoing work, especially as membership changes over time.
The staff liaison is a valuable resource for your commission. They can help you navigate city
processes, access needed information, and ensure that your commission's work aligns with and
supports the city's overall goals and operations. While staff liaisons provide support and guidance,
it's important to remember that they do not vote on commission matters or make decisions on
behalf of the commission.
Relationship with Council
Commissions play a crucial advisory role to the City Council, serving as a bridge between the
community and local government. Here's how this relationship functions:
8
Top of Document
268
Jufn!4/
1. Analysis: Commissions often have bandwidth to focus on areas within the expertise of that
commissions, conduct research and analysis that the Council may not be able to do given
their broad responsibilities.
2. Communication Channels:
o Typically, at least one joint meeting with the Council per year is held for some
commissions.
o For guidance or clarification, commissioners should communicate with their staff
liaison.
o The staff liaison can represent the Council's perspective or facilitate the
commission chair to present or speak with Council at City Council Conference
Meetings if needed.
3. Expertise and Community Perspective: Commissioners bring specialized knowledge and
community input to complex issues, helping the Council make more informed decisions.
4. Guided by Council Needs: Commissions are guided by the needs of the Council through
their staff liaison. This ensures that commission work aligns with Council priorities and
objectives.
5. Long-Term Planning: Commissions often work on long-term projects and plans, providing
continuity and vision that extends beyond election cycles.
6. Policy Development: Commission recommendations can form the basis for new city
policies or programs or update existing ones.
While commission recommendations carry significant weight, the final decision-making authority
typically rests with the Council. The role of commissions is to provide the best possible advice
based on expertise, research, and community input, thereby supporting the Council in making
well-informed decisions for the city.
Completion of Service and Member Removal
While we hope your service will be long and rewarding, it's important to understand the
circumstances under which commission service may end. This section provides information on
term completion, resignation, and the rarely-used removal process.
Reasons for Early Completion of Service:
1. Resignation: Members may choose to resign from their position at any time by submitting
a written notice to the City Clerk or their commission's staff liaison.
2. Attendance: Regular attendance is crucial for the effective functioning of commissions.
Extended absences or frequent missed meetings may result in a review of membership.
3. Term Expiration: Members serve for specified terms. At the end of a term, members may
be reappointed or may conclude their service.
4. Commission Dissolution: In rare cases, if a commission is dissolved by the Council, all
member terms would naturally conclude.
9
Top of Document
269
Jufn!4/
Removal Process:
The Council has the authority to remove commission members, aside from the Charter
Commission (Charter Commission members must be removed by the Court). This authority is
exercised rarely and with careful consideration. Reasons for removal might include:
Violation of ethics policies or conflict of interest rules
Persistent failure to perform duties
Actions that undermine the commission's effectiveness or the public trust
If concerns arise about a member's conduct or ability to serve, the typical process involves:
1. Discussion with the member and the City Manager, Mayor, and/or staff liaison to address
concerns
2. If issues persist, review by the Council
3. The member is given an opportunity to respond to any concerns
4. The Council makes a final decision in an open meeting.
Types of Commissions
The City has six total commissions consisting of both ordinance established commissions and
statutory established commissions. Ordinance established commissions, sometimes rereferred to
as advisory commissions, make recommendations to the Council but do not have independent
decision-making authority. Statutory established commissions, sometimes rereferred to as
authoritative commissions, have some level of autonomous authority granted by statute or
ordinance. The commissions are separated below based on ordinance established commissions
and statutory established commissions.
Ordinance Established Commissions:
Ordinance established commissions derive their power and obligations from Chapter 105 of the
Fridley City Code. Ordinance established commissions make recommendations to the Council but
do not have independent decision-making authority. They provide expert advice and community
perspective on various aspects of city life.
Environmental Quality and Energy Commission (EQEC)
Establishment: Advisory commission established by ordinance.
Composition and Leadership: EQEC commission members are appoint by the Council. The
chair is appointed by the Council and vice-chair is appointed by the commission. The
person who holds these appointments is listed on the first resolution every year.
Meeting: The EQEC typically meets the second Tuesday of every month. The EQEC is not
televised, so meeting minutes are recorded by the staff liaison. The staff liaison will
communicate if meetings are rescheduled or canceled.
Purpose and Responsibilities: The EQEC serves as a resource to the City in the
conservation and management of energy and the environment. The EQEC provides the
10
Top of Document
270
Jufn!4/
Council with accurate information to assist in making and implementing sound
environmental policy in areas such as:
Solid waste abatement programming
Environmental education
Waste reduction
Water resource management
Energy conservation and management
The EQEC also advises on environmental problems, laws, policies, and regulations at the
county, metropolitan, state, and federal levels to the extent of their effect on Fridley. It
advises the Council, the City Manager, and other appropriate city commissions on matters
pertaining to conservation and management of energy and the environment, including
the review and recommendation of programs and policies within the City.
What the purpose of the commissioner? As an EQEC member, you're at the forefront of
Fridley's environmental initiatives. Your work directly influences:
o The City's approach to waste reduction and recycling programs
o Strategies for water conservation and quality improvement
o Energy efficiency initiatives in city operations and community-wide
o Public education on environmental issues
Parks and Recreation Commission (PRC)
Establishment: Advisory commission established by ordinance.
Composition and Leadership: PRC commission members are appointed by the Council.
The chair is appointed by the Council and vice-chair is appointed by the commission. The
person who holds these appointments is listed on the first resolution every year.
Meeting: The PRC typically meets the first Monday of every month. The PRC is televised,
so meeting minutes are created by an off-site minutes vendor. The staff liaison will
communicate if meetings are rescheduled or canceled.
Purpose and Responsibilities: The PRC was established to provide comprehensive
development of park facilities and a recreational activities program for the well-being of
the residents of the City. It also guides the development of programs to implement these
goals effectively. By June 1 each year, the Commission recommends a capital investment
program for park improvements, acquisitions, and recreational activities.
What is the purpose of the commissioner? As a PRC member, you play a key role in:
o Shaping the future of Fridley's parks and green spaces
o Developing inclusive recreational programs for all ages and abilities
o Advising on the maintenance and improvement of park facilities
o Ensuring that Fridley's recreational offerings contribute to community well-being
and city attractiveness
Planning Commission (PC)
11
Top of Document
271
Jufn!4/
Establishment: Advisory commission recommended by Statute and established by
ordinance.
Composition and Leadership: The PC has a unique structure, the Commission comprises
seven members: the Planning Commission chairperson, the chairs of both the Park and
Recreation Commission and the Environmental Quality and Energy Commission, and four
at-large members. The chair is appointed by the Council and vice-chair is appointed by
the commission. The PC commission at-large members are appoint by the Council. Chair
and vice-chair appointments are recorded in the first resolution of each year.
Meeting: The Planning Commission typically meets the second Wednesday of every
month. The PC is televised, so meeting minutes are created by an off-site minutes vendor.
The staff liaison will communicate if meetings are rescheduled or canceled.
Purpose and Responsibilities: The Planning Commission is responsible for continuous
community planning and development of comprehensive goals and policies, including but
not limited to land use, housing, environment, parks and recreation, and other related
community activities. The Commission also serves as the Board of Appeals and
Adjustments, exercising all authority and functions of said Board according to M.S. §§
462.351 to 462.364.
What is the purpose of the commissioner? As a Planning Commission member, your work
has a lasting impact on Fridley's future. You contribute to:
o Developing and updating the city's comprehensive plan
o Reviewing and recommending action on zoning changes, land use applications,
and development proposals
o Ensuring that Fridley's growth aligns with community values and long-term
sustainability
o Addressing housing needs and promoting equitable development
Public Arts Commission (PAC)
Establishment: Advisory Commission established by ordinance.
Leadership and Composition: PAC members are appointed by the Council. The chair is
appointed by the Council and vice-chair is appointed by the commission. The individual
who holds these appointments is listed on the first resolution every year.
Meeting: The PAC typically meets the first Wednesday of every month. The PAC is not
televised, so meeting minutes are recorded by the staff liaison. The staff liaison will
communicate if meetings are rescheduled or canceled.
Purpose and Responsibilities: The PAC was established to foster the development of the
arts, to advise the Council on arts-related matters, and to stimulate participation in and
appreciation of the arts by residents.
What is the purpose of the commissioner? As a PAC member, you have the exciting
opportunity to:
o Shape the artistic landscape of Fridley
12
Top of Document
272
Jufn!4/
o Advocate for and support local artists
o Develop public art initiatives that reflect our community's diversity and values
o Integrate art into public spaces and city development projects
Statutory Established Commissions
Statutory established commissions have limited self-governing authority granted by statute,
including some internal processes that are regulated by law. Statutory established commissions
still require final approval from the Council by resolution to turn any recommendations into action.
Charter Commission
Establishment: Required by Statute as a Home Rule Charter City.
Composition and Leadership: Charter commission members are appointed by a District
Court Judge. The chair and vice-chair are elected according to the procedure in the Charter
Commission by-laws.
Meeting: The Charter Commission typically meets the second Monday of every month and
meets approximately 7 times per year. The Charter Commission is not televised, so
meeting minutes are recorded by the staff liaison. The staff liaison will communicate if
meetings are rescheduled or canceled.
Purpose and Responsibilities: Has the authority to review the City Charter and make
recommendations for amendments to the Council.
What is the purpose of the commissioner? As a Charter Commission member, you play a
critical role in Fridley's governance by:
o Reviewing and recommending updates to the City Charter
o Ensuring that Fridley's governance structure remains effective and efficient
o Safeguarding the rights and responsibilities outlined in the City Charter
o Providing a vital check and balance in our local government system
Housing and Redevelopment Authority (HRA)
Establishment: Authorized by Statute and established by ordinance.
Composition and Leadership: HRA members are appointed by the HRA where the City
Manager serves as Executive Director. The chair and vice-chair are appointed by the HRA.
The person who holds these appointments is listed on the first resolution every year.
Meeting: The HRA meets the first Thursday of every month. The HRA is televised, so
meeting minutes are recorded by the off-site minute taking service. The staff liaison will
communicate if meetings are rescheduled or canceled.
Purpose and Responsibilities: Implements housing rehabilitation programs and
redevelopment projects that create new housing opportunities to meet local housing
needs. Administers programs that are designed to enlarge the tax base, create jobs, and
create vital, attractive businesses in blighted or underdeveloped areas of the City.
13
Top of Document
273
Jufn!4/
What is the purpose of the commissioner? As an HRA member, your work has a direct
and tangible impact on Fridley's housing landscape and economic development. You
contribute to:
o Implementing housing rehabilitation programs that improve living conditions for
residents
o Developing new housing opportunities to meet diverse community needs
o Creating and executing redevelopment projects that attract businesses and create
jobs
o Administering programs that enlarge the city's tax base and enhance economic
stability
The Council may, by ordinance or resolution, establish and regulate any board or commission, to
advise the Council with respect to any City function or activity, to investigate any subject of interest
to the City, or to perform quasi-judicial functions. The Council relies on the work of City
commissions, and members serve an important role in extending the reach of the democratic
process into the community.
Be an Effective Commission Member
Attending your first commission meeting is often a blend of excitement and uncertainty. You
might find yourself pondering over the right protocols, what to say, and how best to contribute.
This section aims to alleviate those initial concerns while setting you on a path to excel in your
role for the betterment of the City. It lays out key practices and guidelines that serve dual
purposes: enabling you to make informed decisions and ensuring that both you and the City
operate within legal boundaries. The essence of being an effective commission member lies in
being prepared, listening actively and contributing thoughtfully to discussions.
Participation
Commission members benefit through participation and discussion of all members. A quorum (or
majority) of the body is necessary to conduct official business. Members are expected and
encouraged to attend all meetings as the regular attendance of commission members is necessary
for the most effective performance of the commission. If a commission member must miss a
meeting(s) or attend a meeting(s) virtually, the member should advise their staff liaison before the
scheduled meeting(s). Additionally, commission members should familiarize themselves with any
bylaws of their commissions. Some commissions have a limit on the number of meetings that can
be missed before that member is dismissed from the commission.
Quorum
A quorum is the minimum number of members required to conduct official business. It's crucial
for decision-making and gives legal validity to the commission's actions. Usually, a quorum is
achieved when more than half of the members are present. The City Clerk will post a notice
whenever a quorum is expected, even if official business isn't on the agenda, to maintain
transparency and avoid potential violations.
14
Top of Document
274
Jufn!4/
To avoid quorum violations, always be mindful of attendance numbers and consult with your staff
liaison if you are unsure.
Conflict of Interest
State law, the City Charter and Code prohibit public officials, including commission members, from
having a personal financial interest in a sale, lease or contract they are authorized to make in their
official capacity. Commission members must avoid actions that might give the appearance of
impropriety or a conflict of interest. They must not use their position to gain privileges or special
treatment.
If there is a conflict of interest on an issue, that member must abstain from discussion or voting
on the issue.
If commission members have any question about a possible conflict of interest, they should
contact their staff liaison.
Standards of Appearance
All commission meetings are open public meetings where members of the public are welcome to
attend. Some are also televised on Fridley City TV and recorded. Therefore, it is important that a
professional appearance be maintained.
Communication
Communication is a critical aspect of your role as a commission member. Your words and actions
reflect the City's interests and values, whether in official meetings or in your personal life.
Media Interactions
Although uncommon, there could be occasions where youare approached by the media for an
interview or a public comment. When communicating any information, it is essential to ensure
that it is accurate, timely, and professional to maintain the City's credibility.
If you ever find yourself contacted for a media interview or statement, it is generally recommended
to consult with the staff liaison for guidance, who may then consult with the City’s Communication
and Engagement Division. You represent the City in every capacity, and your words and actions
reflect the City's interests and values.
Social Media Use
Many commissioners use social media in various ways, such as communicating with the
community or sharing personal views. However, the 'personal' style of social media can make it
difficult to draw the line between public, professional and private use. As a representative of the
City, online statements and opinions - even when intended as personal - may be perceived as
representing the City's position.
15
Top of Document
275
Jufn!4/
When using social media, always exercise good judgment and remember that you are a
commission member even when writing in your personal capacity.
There may be times when personal writings on social media could be perceived as problematic
because they could damage the trust and working relationship between the commission, City
Council and, the community. Examples could include:
Using inflammatory or vulgar language that could damage public trust
Making hostile or alienating statements about segments of the community
Posting content that undermines the ability to serve all residents impartially
Cyber-bullying or harassment
Sharing confidential information
Unlawful activities
Inappropriate use of the City's name or your commission title
Using phrases like 'As a City commissioner, I think...' when expressing personal views, as
this can imply you are speaking on behalf of the City or commission
Use of social media in this nature could result in coaching of the commission member and/or
Council following the Removal Process. Each situation will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis.
General Communication Tips
Keep messages concise, focusing on a couple of main points.
Be mindful of your tone and voice.
Use clear, straightforward language, avoiding jargon or overly technical terms.
Stay authentic and true to yourself. Positivity and optimism can go a long way.
Code of Conduct and Ethics
As a commission member, you're held to a high standard of conduct due to the nature of your
duties and responsibilities. The following principles will help ensure that your commission
operates with maximum efficiency and effectiveness:
Attend meetings regularly and punctually.
Respect the decision-making process and any decisions made by the group.
Notify your staff liaison if you'll miss a meeting, to ensure quorum.
Openly discuss issues and decisions during meetings.
Don't seek special consideration or influence based on your position.
Adhere to gift prohibition rules as outlined in Minn. Stat. § 471.895.
Maintain confidentiality when required and adhere to data practices regulations.
Ethical Considerations
Commissioners are held to high ethical standards. Here are some key areas to be aware of:
Recusal from Voting:
o Commissioners should recuse themselves from voting on any matter where they
have a personal interest in that matter.
16
Top of Document
276
Jufn!4/
o Examples include: financial interests in a project under review, family members
applying for a land use permit, or being employed by an organization seeking
approval from the commission.
o If in doubt, consult with your staff liaison.
Gifts:
o Commissioners are subject to gift prohibition rules as outlined in Minnesota
Statutes § 471.895.
o Generally, gifts should not be accepted from individuals or organizations that have
business before the commission.
o When in doubt, it's best to politely declineor seek guidance from the staff liaison
Relationships with Applicants:
o If a commission member has a personal or professional relationship with someone
applying for approval from the commission, disclose this relationship publicly
before any discussion of the matter.
o If the relationship could be perceived as influencing decisions, consider recusing
yourself from the vote.
o Always err on the side of transparency to maintain public trust.
Maintaining high ethical standards is crucial for the credibility of your commission and the City as
a whole. If you're ever unsure about an ethical issue, don't hesitate to seek guidance from your
staff liaison.
Data Practices
Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13, known as Minnesota Government Data Practices Act (MGDPA),
and Chapter 12 of the City Charter govern all data collected, created, received, maintained, or
disseminated by the City. Generally, the MGDPA presumes that all Government Data are public
unless a State or Federal law says differently. The City’s Data Practices Policy is available online.
Commission members should presume all documents, notes, and messages created or maintained
in the course of their work, or stored on their devices, will be subject to release if requested.
The City Clerk has been designated as the City’s Responsible Authority and is responsible for
administering the MGDPA. No employee, commission member or elected official of the City may
release any private or confidential data to any person except for the City Clerk or a designee. All
data practices requests should be forwarded to the City Clerk for processing as the Data Practices
Act requires understanding to successfully respond to requests.
Compensation and Reimbursement
Acting as a commission member is a volunteer position, meaning there is no compensation.
However, commission members may occasionally attend conferences, seminars, or other events
that align with their roles. Reimbursement may be available for commission-related travel, meals,
lodging, and other necessary expenses, consistent with budget authorization.
17
Top of Document
277
Jufn!4/
Commission members interested in attending a conference that will require reimbursement needs
to obtain permission from the City before attendance. Commission members will not be
reimbursed for any expenses that do not have prior approval.
Commission Meeting Procedure
Typically, commissions meet once monthly. Meetings can be anywhere to 30 minutes to a couple
of hours. Special Meetings may occasionally be called by a commission. If this occurs, the City will
issue a public notice and produce an agenda.
The staff liaison is present at every meeting to help answer questions the Commission has on any
agenda items.
Parliamentary Procedures
All Commissions follow Rosenberg’s Rules of Order at meetings. Parliamentary procedure is
simply considered as a set of guidelines used to assure that a meeting goes smoothly and fairly.
It is used to facilitate a group coming to a majority decision when there are differing points of
view. A detailed list of procedures can be found in Rosenberg’s Rules of Order.
Agenda
The agendas for the meetings of the commission are determined by the commission chair and
the staff liaison. They are then prepared by City staff and distributed to each commission member
at least one business day before the meeting. The commission agenda outlines the topics or items
of business that will be introduced, discussed and acted upon at each meeting.
Once the agenda has been sent to the commission along with the accompanying packet material,
no item is added or deleted prior to the meeting. The agenda may be amended at the beginning
of the commission meeting to include any additional items or to delete any item from the agenda.
The order of business on the meeting agenda varies slightly between commission, but generally
is as follows:
Open Forum/Visitors: Open Forum allows the public to address the commission on subjects that
are not on the agenda. The commission may take action, reply or give direction to staff.
Proposed Agenda: These items are proposed for the commission’s discussion and consideration.
All items will be discussed and considered by the commission for approval by vote through
separate motions.
Public Hearing(s): Some commission are required to hold public hearings on certain matters.
Items under the public hearing section allow members of the public to address the commission
on items that are required to have a public hearing. The commission will call the public hearing,
18
Top of Document
278
Jufn!4/
take public comment, then close the public hearing. Once the public hearing is closed, the
commission may vote on passing the proposed action.
Informal Status Reports: An opportunity for staff to update the commission on upcoming events
and on staff activities as requested by the commission. Typically, these activities are in preliminary
stages and not ready for formal action.
Open Meeting Law
All of the meetings of the commission are open to the public and subject to the Open Meeting
Law (Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13D). A meeting is defined as the convening of members of a
governmental body for the purpose of exercising the responsibility, authority, power or duties
delegated to that body. A meeting is subject to the open meeting law whenever the governmental
body meets for official purposes. A meeting does not include social or chance gatherings not
intended to avoid the law. When there are more than half of the commission member present at
a meeting, it is considered a quorum and therefore a meeting for official purposes.
The purpose of the law is to:
Prohibit action from being taken at a secret meeting where the interested public cannot
be fully informed of the decision of the public body;
Ensures the public's right to be informed; and
Gives the public an opportunity to present its views.
Any communication (including emails or other electronic communication) between some or all of
the commission could potentially be considered a public meeting.
If you have information or any type of communication that you would like to share with other
members, it is recommended that it be sent to the staff liaison, who may then forward it for review
and discussion at a public meeting. The Open Meeting law does not preclude an individual
member from contacting the staff liaison regarding questions or concerns, or seeking further
information on topics or agenda items.
In any meeting which must be open to the public, the City must make at least one copy of any
printed material available in the meeting room for public inspection. This applies to any printed
material prepared by the City and distributed or made available to all members of the commission.
This requirement does not apply to materials that are classified as other than public under the
Government Data Practices Act.
The exception to the Open Meeting Law is ”Closed Meetings.” Closed Meetings are strictly
regulated and rarely used by commissions. If you think a meeting needs to be closed, please
consult with the staff liaison.
19
Top of Document
279
Jufn!4/
Public Notice
The Open Meeting Law (Minnesota Statutes, Chapter 13D) requires public bodies to establish a
schedule for regular meetings and keep that schedule on file at its primary offices (i.e., City Hall).
If the body changes the time or location from the regular meeting schedule, advance notice must
be provided.
Minutes and Records of Commission Meetings
Open Meeting Law (Section 13D.01, subdivision 4) requires public bodies to record and maintain
votes of its members. Minutes of each commission meeting should comprise a summary of the
proceedings, including who makes and seconds the motions and the results thereof. The minutes
serve as a permanent record of the commissions’ actions, discussion, and opinions, and are
forwarded to the City Manager's office for public distribution and used as input and background
for commission decisions.
Minutes can be taken by an off-site minute-taking service or the commission staff liaison and are
incorporated into the next meeting agenda packet for approval by the commission. The
commission minutes are then placed on the Council meeting agenda to be formally received by
the Council. It is important for commission members to closely review minutes and make
corrections if needed so the approved minutes accurately reflect the work of the commission.
Corrections to minutes should be made at the meeting when the minutes are brought forward for
adoption. Corrections require a motion, a second, and a majority vote, and if approved, are noted
in the minutes of the current meeting. Any changes to the draft minutes approved by the
commission should be reflected in the minutes for the meeting at which the corrections are made.
In addition to the written minutes, some commission meetings are recorded, shown live, and
replayed on the City's cable station. While the recordings are not an official record of the
commission meeting, they are retained for 20 years, after which time they may be destroyed,
pursuant to the City's Public Meetings Minutes Policy. Copies of the recordings are available for
the Council, staff, and public viewing upon request.
20
Top of Document
280
Jufn!4/
Acknowledgement
I hereby acknowledge receipt of the Commission Member Onboarding Manual (Manual). I confirm
that I have read and understand the Manual, particularly the "Be an Effective Commission
Member" section, and I agree to fulfill my duties in accordance with these standards.
I understand that failure to comply with the expectations and responsibilities outlined in this
Manual, specifically those detailed in the "Be an Effective Commission Member" section, may
constitute grounds for removal from the Commission.
_______________________________________________________________
Commissioner Name (Print)
_______________________________________________________________ _____________________
Signature Date
21
Top of Document
281
Jufn!4/
Appendix and Other Resources
Data Practices
Open Meeting Law
City Code and Charter
Rosenburg’s Rule of Order
Commission Meeting Calendar
City Organization Chart
Data vs. Information Sheet
22
Top of Document
282
Jufn!4/
Visual of Relationship between the Commissions, the Council and Staff
Liaisons
23
Top of Document
283
Jufn!5/
AGENDA REPORT
Meeting Date:April 16, 2025 Meeting Type:Planning Commission
Submitted By:Stacy Stromberg, Planning Manager
Title
Commission Appreciation Dinner
Background
Each year the Council invites Commissioners to attend an appreciation dinner to recognize the valuable
st
at 6:00 p.m. at
Springbrook Nature Center.
th
.
Financial Impact
None
Recommendation
None
Attachments and Other Resources
Commission Dinner Invitation
Vision Statement
We believe Fridley will be a safe, vibrant, friendly and stable home for families and businesses.
284
Jufn!5/
285