Residents could eventually be asked to restrict outdoor storage of bulk materials under a text change discussed by the Planning Commission this week.
The Commission approved three text changes in ordinances, which will be presented to the Raleigh City Council Nov. 1. One change, regarding outdoor storage of materials, has been submitted to the Text Change Committee for further review.
Signage (Text Change 8-11)
City staff recommended no longer requiring an ID sticker on the front of permitted signage. Staff members called it an outdated regulation and a burden to both city inspectors and sign-owners who need to come into compliance.
Raleigh Historic District Commission Name Change (Text Change 10-11)
Commissioners approved changing the name of the Raleigh Historic District Commission to the Raleigh Historic Development Commission.
The name change would not change its function or responsibilities, but members believed that it would reflect better how the Commission helps the districts develop.
Deputy City Attorney Ira Botvinick said that the Commission often helps residents take advantage of tax incentives for those living in a historic district to improve and develop their property.
Building Code Update (Text Change 11-11)
Text Change 11-11 includes the most current version of the state building code and would enable the city to update seamlessly when new codes are adopted. The city must come in compliance with the new state code by March 2012.
Outdoor Storage of Materials (Text Change 9-11)
City Councilors recommended that outdoor storage of bulk materials be restricted in height to 25 feet and be located 10 feet away from a property line. Anything taller than 25 feet would require a special-use permit from the Board of Adjustment.
Today there are no height or location restrictions on outdoor storage. The recommendation comes after a large mound of recycling material was located on city property.
Planning Commissioners discussed how long material would have to be stored to require a special use permit; it can take up to two weeks to receive one.
Commissioners also discussed what kind of material these changes refer to and how toxic material would be defined and handled.
Commissioners reported this change to the Text Change Committee.
