DATE: October 22, 2015
TO: Franklin Municipal Planning Commission
FROM: Kelly Dannenfelser, Principal Planner
Bob Martin, Interim Director of Planning and Sustainability
Subject
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Consideration of Ordinance 2015-21, To Be Entitled, "An Ordinance To Amend Chapter 8, Section 8.3, And Chapter 4, Sections 4.1.4 And 4.1.6, Of The Franklin Zoning Ordinance, Which Regulate Accessory Uses And Structures, And Chapter 3, Section 3.5.6, Central Franklin Character Area Overlay District, To Permit Accessory Dwellings in Certain Special Areas." (10/22/15 FMPC 9-0; 11-24-15 BOMA 1st Reading 6-0; 01/12/16 BOMA 7-0) THIRD AND FINAL READING
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Background/Staff Comments
The text amendment was written based on Central Franklin Character Area recommendations that addressed geographic location, off-street parking, minimum lot size, location on the lot, maximum square footage, height, and an owner occupancy requirement. See the attached excerpt.
Only a portion of the properties within the oldest parts of Franklin would potentially be impacted by this text amendment due to restrictions on residential zoning, minimum lot size, residential land use, landscape surface ratio, setbacks, number of permitted accessory dwellings per lot, etc.
Variances may be requested by anyone, just like anyone can ask for a rezoning. However, the applicant would have to prove why the property has unusual lot characteristics that would make it different from other similar lots and must prove there is not substantial detriment to surrounding properties. Per State Law, approval cannot be based on economic hardship.
The Municipal Code prohibits parking in front yards. Variances only apply to Zoning Ordinance provisions so a variance could not be granted for parking in front yards.
Accessory dwellings will provide a housing option for family members, supplement income via rent, or help aging residents meet their needs without moving.
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