2023-04-24 City Council Agenda Packet - work session w-Planning Commission
CITY OF MENDOTA HEIGHTS
CITY COUNCIL - PLANNING COMMISSION WORK SESSION AGENDA
Monday, April 24, 2023 6:00 p.m.
City Hall 1101 Victoria Curve, Mendota Heights
1. Call to Order
2. Draft Zoning Code Review Update and Discussion
3. Adjourn
Alternative formats or auxiliary aids are available to individuals with disabilities upon
request. Please contact city hall at 651-452-1850 or cityhall@mendotaheightsmn.gov.
1
City Council & Planning Commission 04.24.2023
MEMO
Discussion Summary
To: Mayor, Members of the City Council, and Planning Commission
CC: Cheryl Jacobson, City Administrator
From: Jennifer Haskamp, AICP, SHC
Date: April 20, 2023
RE: Joint Work Session April 24, 2023 and Revised Chapter 2 Draft
Introduction
On April 17, 2023 the Planning Commission held a work session to discuss the full draft of the Zoning Ordinance
revision. The work session was the first opportunity to review and discuss the full draft. The work session was
productive with good discussion that focused primarily on Chapters 1 and 2. The Planning Commission began
discussion of Chapter 3, but did not finish its review and discussion. We expect the next work session to pick up
the discussion on Chapter 3 and continue through Chapters 4 and 5.
Given that the Planning Commission did not get through the full draft, the agenda for the Joint Work Session will
include an overview of the process, the outline/structure of the draft ordinance, summary of key changes in the
Zoning Ordinance, followed by detailed discussion and presentation focused on Chapter 2.
REVISED Chapter 2: Zoning Districts
The Planning Commission had several comments and suggestions to improve the Chapter 2 draft. After the
meeting, the edits and modifications as recommended were incorporated into the draft. Please replace Draft
Chapter 2 dated April 6, 2023 with the attached Draft dated April 21, 2023. A summary of the changes
incorporated as recommended by the Planning Commission are as follows:
• Added language to the Introductory summary to reference the Chapter 7 Glossary for defined terms.
• Revised the Dimensional Standards table for each Zoning District to remove the “All” Accessory
Structure Standards and instead incorporate dimensional standards by each Accessory Building Type.
• Clarified the front yard setback standards in the RE, R-1 and TN-O districts.
• Revised the Impervious Surface Coverage requirements for each Zoning District to allow a maximum
percent without mitigation, and an additional 15% coverage if Best Management Practices (BMPs) are
incorporated.
• Revised the list of Plats included in the Traditional Neighborhood Overlay District (TN-O) to reflect
platting prior to 1981. (Please note that TN-O, as well as the applicable property for designation, will be
presented at the work session in detail and will include a map analysis for discussion).
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 1
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
CHAPTER 2: ZONING DISTRICTS
ARTICLE A. GENERAL PROVISIONS
12-2A-1 Summary
This section establishes the Zoning Districts and their corresponding dimensional standards and regulations in the City. All
parcels within the City are zoned with a Base Zoning District and may also be zoned with an Overlay District. Defined
terms are generally identified by capitalization and are provided in Chapter 7 of this Zoning Ordinance.
12-2A-2 Zoning Districts Established
A. Table of Established Base and Overlay Districts. The following table is provided to summarize and identify the
Zoning Districts in the City.
Table 12-2A-2.1 Established Base and Overlay Districts
ZONING DISTRICT ABBREVIATION
Base Residential Districts
Residential Estate RE
Low Density Residential R-1
Medium Density Residential R-2
Multi-Family Residential R-3
Base Business Districts
General Business B-1
Neighborhood Business B-2
Base Industrial District
Industrial I
Base Other Districts
Mixed-Use MU
State Park SP
Overlay Districts
Traditional Neighborhood Overlay District TN-O
Public/Semi-Public Overlay District PSP-O
Planned Unit Development Overlay District PUD
Mississippi River Critical Corridor Area Overlay District MRCCA
Floodplain Overlay District FP-O
12-2A-3 Zoning of Annexed Territory
Annexed territory shall be placed in the Residential Estate (RE) Zoning District until such time as a detailed study
determining its proper use District is undertaken.
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 2
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
12-2A-4 Zoning Map
The boundaries of these Zoning Districts are hereby established as shown on the official map entitled Zoning Map of
Mendota Heights, Minnesota, which map is approved and filed in the office of the City Clerk, hereinafter referred to as the
“Zoning Map”. Said map and all the notations, references and other information shown thereon shall have the same force
and effect as if fully set down herein and is hereby made a part of this Chapter by reference and incorporated herein as
fully as if set forth herein at length.
12-2A-5 Boundaries of Districts
A. Boundaries Established.
1. Zoning District boundary lines as indicated on the Zoning Map follow lot lines, the centerlines of streets or
alleys, the centerlines of streets or alleys projected, railroad right-of-way lines, the center of watercourses or
the corporate limit lines, to the extent possible, all as they exist upon the effective date of this Chapter.
2. If Zoning District boundary lines do not follow any of the above-described lines, the Zoning District boundary
lines are established as drawn on the Zoning Map.
3. Where a Base Zoning District boundary line divides a lot of record which was in single ownership at the time
of enactment of this Chapter and places portions of such lot of record in two (2) or more Base Zoning
Districts, any portion of such lot within 50-feet on either side of such Base Zoning District boundary line may
be used for either Base Zoning District. However, if any portion of said lot extends beyond the 50-foot
limitation, the Base Zoning District line as shown shall prevail.
4. The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources (MNDNR) establishes the boundary lines of the Mississippi
River Critical Corridor Area (MRCCA) Overlay District and FEMA establishes the boundary lines of the
designated floodplain overlay. These Overlay Districts may be referred to as the Environmental Overlay
Districts, and lands affected by these Districts shall be subject to the boundaries as established by the
regulatory agency which may be updated from time to time.
5. The Traditional Neighborhood Overlay (TN-O) District shall be inclusive only of those plats identified
explicitly within this Ordinance that were established prior to 1981.
6. The Public/Semi-Public Overlay (PSP-O) District shall be established as a use-based district and is only
valid if an active use is present on the property, otherwise the Base Zoning District shall regulate the subject
property.
B. Vacation of Public Ways. Whenever any street, alley or other public way is vacated by official action of the City,
the Base Zoning District abutting the centerline of said alley or public way shall not be affected by such
proceeding.
12-2A-6 Applicability of Standards and other Jurisdictions.
A. This Chapter must be evaluated in coordination with the other Chapters of this Zoning Ordinance, including the
standards established in Chapter 4: Building, Character and Design Standards that establishes physical site
performance standards and regulations.
B. This Chapter establishes that other jurisdictions have authority over certain lands contained within certain
Overlay Districts, and in the case of any conflict between regulations the most restrictive standards shall apply,
regardless of jurisdiction.
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 3
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
ARTICLE B. BASE ZONING DISTRICTS
12-2B-1 Base Zoning Districts
A. Assigned Base Zoning Districts. All parcels, lots and land within the City are zoned with a Base Zoning District
designation. The Base Zoning Districts establish and assign dimensional standards for all lots, improvements,
subdivisions and other uses as described and regulated within this Zoning Ordinance. A parcel of land,
development or contiguous area may be subject to an Overlay District which may assign additional dimensional
standards and rules or provide certain flexibility from the standards as expressly described in other applicable
Chapters or Sections.
Table 12-2B-1.1 Base Zoning Districts
Residential Districts Business Districts
Residential
Estate
Low
Density
Residential
Medium
Density
Residential
Multi-Family
Residential Mixed- Use General
Business
Neighborhood
Business Industrial
Abbreviations RE R-1 R-2 R-3 MU B-1 B-2 I
Lot Size
(minimum)
30,000
square feet
15,000
square feet
5,500 square
feet/unit
20,000 square
feet total or
3,500 square
feet/unit
15,000 square
feet total or
3,500 square
feet/unit
20,000 square
feet
15,000 square
feet 1 acre
Lot Width
(minimum) 125’ 100’ 35’/unit 150’ 100’ 150’ 100’ 100’
Impervious
Surface Area
(maximum)
35%, up to
50% with
BMPs1
35%, up to
50% with
BMPs1
35%, up to
50% with
BMPs1
50%, up to
65% with
BMPs1
60%, up to 75%
with BMPs1
60%, up to
75% with
BMPs1
60%, up to
75% with
BMPs1
75%, up to
90% with
BMPs1
Height
(maximum) 35’ 25’ 25’ 60’ 60’ 35’ 30’ 45’
1Best Management Practices (BMPs) are recognized and approved by the most current Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) Stormwater Manual. The
Public Works Director must review and approve all mitigative BMPs prior to the commencement of any site work.
12-2B-2 Residential Estate (RE)
A. Purpose of Residential Estate (RE) Zoning District. The RE Zoning District designates areas in the community
where the predominant use of property is for large lot, single-family detached uses with supporting accessory
uses. Properties zoned RE have a larger lot size and may or may not be part of a platted neighborhood. Land
developed within the RE Zoning District may be served by private well and septic or connected to municipal utility
services.
B. Permitted Uses. See Chapter 3: Allowed Uses.
C. Zoning District Dimensional Standards. [Table 12-2B-2.1] identifies the Dimensional Standards for Principal and
Accessory Structures.
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 4
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
Table 12-2B-2.1 RE Dimensional and Lot Standards
Lot Dimensions
A Lot Size (minimum) 30,000 square feet
B Lot Width (minimum) 125 feet
Principal Building Standards
C Front Yard Setback
• Newly Created Lot (new plat)
• Existing Lot of Record (infill)
40 feet
See Section 12-4A-3.D.2
D Side Yard Setback (minimum) 15 feet interior lot line
30 feet abutting a street
E Rear Yard Setback (minimum) 30 feet
Principal Building Height (maximum) 35 feet
Accessory Structure Standards
Private Garages
Number (maximum) One (1) detached or one (1) attached garage per Lot; see Section [12-4A-8.D.2]
for Exception for Two Private Garages on a Lot
Size (maximum)
• If Attached Private Garage 1,200 square feet
1,201 – 1,500 square feet with CUP
• If Detached Private Garage 750 square feet
751 – 1,000 square feet with CUP
• Size for Exception for Two Private
Garages Up to 2,400 square feet based on lot size, see Section [12-4A-8.D.2]
Front Yard Setback (attached) Minimum Front Yard Setback of Principal Building
F Front Yard Setback (detached) Behind Principal Building front facade
Side and Rear Yard Setbacks (minimum) Corner lots must meet principal building side yard setback
• 144 to 2,000 square feet 10 feet
• Over 2,000 square feet 15 feet
Height (maximum) May not exceed height of principal building
• 144 to 2,000 square feet 15 feet, 1.5 stories
• Over 2,000 square feet 18 feet, 1.5 stories
G Setback from Principal Building (minimum) 5 feet
Garage Doors
• Width (maximum measured horizontally) 36 linear feet as viewed from the public right-of-way
• Height (maximum) 9 feet
Storage Building
Number (maximum) One (1); See Section 12-4A-8.E.a.iii. for Exception for two Storage Buildings if
Chicken Coop/Run
Size 144 square feet for one (1) Storage Building; maximum of 225 square feet of
combined Storage Building and Chicken Coop/Run
Front Yard Setback (minimum) Behind Principal Building front facade
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 5
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
Side and Rear Yard Setback (minimum) 5 feet
Height (maximum) 10 feet, 1 story
Accessory Structure (not meeting definition of Building)
Setbacks Must meet all Storage Building yard setbacks
Size No limit; must meet impervious surface requirements.
Other Standards
Impervious Surface Coverage (maximum) 35%, or up to 50% with approved Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Figure 12-2B-2.1 RE Lot Diagram
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 6
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
12-2B-3 Low Density Residential (R-1)
A. Purpose of Low Density Residential (R-1) Zoning District. The R-1 Zoning District designates areas in the
community that are predominantly used for single-family residential and accessory uses. Properties zoned R-1
were primarily developed post World War II and the majority of land within this Zoning District is developed with
single-family homes, curvilinear roadways, public utilities and front-facing attached garages. Any future
redevelopment is intended to comply with the characteristics and dimensional standards of the current
development pattern.
B. Permitted Uses. See Chapter 3: Allowed Uses.
C. Zoning District Dimensional Standards. [Table 12-2B-3.1] identifies the Dimensional Standards for Principal and
Accessory Structures.
Table 12-2B-3.1 R-1 Dimensional and Lot Standards
Lot Dimensions
A Lot Size (minimum) 15,000 square feet
B Lot Width (minimum) 100 feet
Principal Building Standards
C Front Yard Setback
• Newly Created Lot (new plat) – Minimum
• Existing Lot of Record (infill) – Minimum
30 feet
See Section 12-4A-3.D.2
• Newly Created Lot (new plat) – Maximum
• Existing Lot of Record (infill) - Maximum
40 feet
See Section 12-4A-3.D.3
D Side Yard Setback (minimum) 10 feet interior lot line
30 feet abutting a street
E Rear Yard Setback (minimum) 30 feet
Height (maximum) 25 feet
Accessory Structure Standards
Private Garages
Number (maximum) One (1) detached or one (1) attached garage per lot; see [Section 12-
4A-8.D.2] for Exception for Two Private Garages on a Lot.
Size (maximum)
• If Attached Private Garage 1,200 square feet
1,201 – 1,500 square feet with CUP
• If Detached Private Garage 750 square feet
751 – 1,000 square feet with CUP
• Size of Exception for Two Private Garages Up to 2,400 square feet based on lot size, see Section [12-4A-8.D.2]
Front Yard Setback (attached) Minimum Front Yard Setback of Principal Building
F Front Yard Setback (detached) Behind Principal Building front facade
Side and Rear Yard Setbacks (minimum) Corner lots must meet Principal Building side yard setback
H • 144 to 2,000 square feet 10 feet
• Over 2,000 square feet 15 feet
Height (Maximum) May not exceed height of Principal Building
• 144 to 2,000 square feet 15 feet, 1.5 stories
• 2,000 to 2,400 Square Feet 18 feet, 1.5 stories
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 7
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
I Setback from Principal Building 5 feet
Garage Doors
• Width (maximum measured horizontally) 36 linear feet as viewed from the public right-of-way
• Height (maximum) 9 feet
Storage Building
Number (maximum) One (1); See [Section 12-4A-8.E.a.iii.] for Exception for two Storage
Buildings if Chicken Coop/Run.
Size 144 square feet for one (1) Storage Building; maximum of 225 square
feet of combined Storage Building and Chick Coop/Run.
Front Yard Setback (minimum) Behind Principal Building front facade
G Side and Rear Yard Setbacks (minimum) 5 feet
Height (maximum) 10 feet, 1 story
Accessory Structure (not meeting definition of Building)
Setbacks Must meet all Accessory Building yard setbacks
Size No limit; must meet impervious surface requirements for all combined
improvements.
Other Standards
Impervious Surface Coverage (maximum) 35%, or up to 50% with approved Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Figure 12-2B-3.1 R-1 Lot Diagram
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 8
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
12-2B-4 Medium Density Residential (R-2)
A. Purpose of Medium Density Residential (R-2) Zoning District. The R-2 Zoning District designates areas in the
community that are developed with small-lot detached residential or attached residential uses. Properties zoned
R-2 are predominantly developed with duplex, triplex, townhome or rowhome residential uses and are located
within platted developments. The properties designated within the R-2 Zoning District were generally developed as
part of a Planned Unit Development (PUD) and are subject to additional standards and requirements as
established within the PUD.
B. Permitted Uses. See Chapter 3: Allowed Uses.
C. Zoning District Dimensional Standards. Table [12-2B-4.1] identifies the Dimensional Standards for Principal and
Accessory Structures.
Table 12-2B-4.1 R-2 Dimensional and Lot Standards
Lot Dimensions
A Lot Size (minimum) 5,500 square feet per unit
B Lot Width (minimum) 35 feet per unit
Principal Building Standards
C Minimum Width of Principal Building 20 feet (per unit)
Minimum finished habitable floor area 1,000 square feet
D Front Yard Setback (minimum) 20 feet
E Side Yard Setback (minimum)
0 feet if attached unit
10 feet interior lot line
30 feet abutting a street
F Rear Yard Setback (minimum) 30 feet
Height (maximum) 25 feet, 2 stories
Accessory Structure Standards
Private Garages
Number (maximum) One (1) detached private garage or one (1) attached private garage per unit.
Size (attached or detached) Minimum of 220 square feet and maximum of 750 square feet
751 – 1,000 square feet with CUP
Front Yard Setback (attached) Principal Building Setbacks (minimum)
G Front Yard Setback (detached) Behind Principal Building front facade
Side and Rear Yard Setbacks (detached)
If corner lot/unit
5 feet
Must meet Principal Building front yard setback on all road frontage
Height (maximum) 15 feet, 1.5 stories
H Setback from Principal Building (minimum) 5 feet
Garage Doors
Width No more than 36 linear feet can be viewed from the public right-of-way, measured
horizontally
Height (maximum) 9 feet
Storage Building
Number (maximum per lot) One (1); See [Section 12-4A-8.E.a.iii] for Exception for two Storage Buildings if
Chicken Coop/Run.
Size (maximum per lot) 144 Square Feet for one (1) Storage Building; maximum of 225 Square Feet of
combined Storage Building and Chicken Coop/Run.
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 9
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
Figure 12-2B-4.1 R-2 Lot Diagram
Front Yard Setback (minimum) Behind Principal Building front facade
Side and Rear Yard Setback (minimum) 5 feet
Height (maximum) 10 feet, 1 story
Accessory Structure (not meeting definition of Building)
Setbacks Must meet all accessory building yard setbacks
Size No limit; must meet impervious surface requirements for all combined improvements.
Other Standards
Impervious Surface Coverage (maximum) 35%, or up to 50% with approved Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Parking (minimum) One (1) space per unit or one (1) space per bedroom, whichever is greater
(1 must be enclosed)
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 10
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
12-2B-5 Multi-Family Residential (R-3)
A. Purpose of Multi-Family Residential (R-3) Zoning District. The R-3 Zoning District designates areas in the
community that are developed with attached multi-family residential uses and supporting accessory uses.
Properties zoned R-3 are predominantly developed with apartments, condominiums and may include townhomes
or rowhomes. The properties designated within the R-3 Zoning District were generally developed as part of a
Planned Unit Development (PUD) and are subject to additional standards and requirements as established within
the PUD.
B. Permitted Uses. See Chapter 3: Allowed Uses.
C. Zoning Dimensional Standards. Table [12-2B-5.1] identifies the Dimensional Standards for Principal and
Accessory Structures.
Table 12-2B-5.1 R-3 Dimensional and Lot Standards
Minimum Lot Area per Dwelling Unit
A Minimum Lot Size 20,000 square feet
Minimum Lot Size Per Unit 3,500 square feet per unit
Principal Building Standards
B Front Yard Setback 50 feet
C Side Yard Setback 40 feet
D Rear Yard Setback 40 feet
Height (maximum) 60 feet; may exceed maximum with CUP
Accessory Structure Standards
Private Garage
E Front Yard Setback (minimum) 50 feet
Side and Rear Yard Setbacks (minimum) Corner lots must meet Principal Building side yard setback
144 to 2,000 Square Feet 10 feet
Over 2,000 Square Feet 15 feet
Height (Maximum) May not exceed height of Principal Building
144 to 2,000 Square Feet 15 feet, 1.5 stories
Over 2,000 Square Feet 18 feet, 1.5 stories
F Setback from Principal Building (detached) 5 feet minimum; or as determined by the Building Official
Storage Building
Number (maximum)
One (1); See Section [12-4A-8.E.a.iii. for Exception for two Storage
Buildings if Chicken Coop/Run. All other detached Storage Buildings
Require a CUP.
Size
144 square feet for one (1) Storage Building, maximum of 225 square
feet of combined Storage Building and Coop/Run. All other detached
Storage Buildings require a CUP.
Front Yard Setback (minimum) Behind Principal Building front façade
Side and Rear Yard Setback (minimum) 5 feet
Height (maximum) 10 feet, 1 story
Accessory Structure (not meeting definition of Building)
Setbacks Must meet all Storage Building yard setbacks
Size No limit, must meet impervious surface requirements for all combined
improvements
Parking and Other Standards
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 11
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
Impervious Surface Coverage (maximum) 50%, or up to 65% with approved Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Parking (minimum) One (1) space per unit or one (1) space per bedroom, whichever is
greater
• Enclosed Parking One space must be enclosed per unit
• Surface Parking minimum setback 40 feet from public ROW and 10 feet from any Principal Building
Design Standards See Section [12-4B-3]
Figure 12-2B-5.1 R-3 Lot Diagram
12-2B-6 Mixed-Use (MU)
A. Purpose of Mixed-Use Zoning District. The MU Zoning District designates areas in the community that are
developed with a mix of both residential and business uses within an area, on an individual parcel, or lot.
Properties zoned MU are predominately developed with a mix of multi-family attached residential uses, retail, and
commercial uses. The properties designated within the MU are regulated by a Planned Unit Development (PUD)
plan and are subject to additional standards and requirements as established within the PUD.
B. Permitted Uses. The allowed uses are established within the Planned Unit Development (PUD) agreement for a
specific area. Generally, the permitted, conditional, and accessory uses contained in the R-2, R-3, B-1 and B-2
Zoning Districts are potentially allowable. See Chapter 3. Allowed Uses for specific uses.
C. Zoning District Dimensional Standards. All MU Districts are subject to a PUD. The PUD for the development
establishes the specific dimensional standards for the development type. The Base District considerations for
residential uses are the R-2 Medium Density Residential or R-3 Multi-Family Residential Zoning District standards,
and for business uses are the B-2 Neighborhood Business District standards.
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 12
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
12-2B-7 General Business (B-1)
A. Purpose of B-1 General Business District. The B-1 Zoning District designates areas in the community that are
developed, or intended to be developed, with retail, commercial, office, and service uses that serve the larger
region. Examples of uses within the General Business Zoning District may include office or business parks, larger
shopping areas, or a medical service campus. Properties zoned General Business have access to larger
roadways and collectors and are located in areas not intended to connect to residential neighborhoods.
B. Permitted Uses. See Chapter 3: Allowed Uses.
C. Zoning District Dimensional Standards. Table [12-2B-7.1] identifies the Dimensional Standards for Principal and
Accessory Structures.
Table 12-2B-7.1 General Business Dimensional and Lot Standards
Lot Dimensions
A Lot Size (minimum) 20,000 square feet
B Lot Width (minimum) 150 feet
Floor Area Ratio (FAR) Maximum 0.5
Principal Building Standards
C Front Yard Setback (minimum) 50 feet
• Abutting a major thoroughfare 100 feet
D Side Yard Setback (minimum) 40 feet
• Adjacent to a street 40 feet
• Adjacent to a Residential District 50 feet
E Rear Yard Setback (minimum) 40 feet
• Adjacent to a Residential District 50 feet
Height (maximum) Two (2) stories or 35 feet (height exceeding 30 feet must obtain a CUP)
Accessory Structure Standards
All Accessory Buildings
Front Yard Setback Behind Principal Building
F Side and Rear Yard Setbacks (minimum)
• Less than 144 Square Feet 5 feet
• 144 to 2,000 Square Feet 10 feet
• Over 2,000 Square Feet 15 feet
G Setback from Principal Building (minimum) 5 feet
Height (maximum) May not exceed height of Principal Building
Size and Number One (1) Storage Building not to exceed 144 Square Feet is Permitted;
All other requires CUP
Accessory Structure (not meeting definition of Building)
Setbacks Must meet all Accessory Building yard setbacks
Size No limit, must meet impervious surface requirements for all combined
improvements.
Other Standards
Building Coverage (maximum) 50%
Impervious Surface Coverage (maximum) 60%, or up to 75% with approved Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Parking See [Section X]
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 13
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
Figure 12-2B-7.1 General Business Lot Diagram
12-2B-8 Neighborhood Business (B-2)
A. Purpose of Neighborhood Business (B-2) District. The B-2 Neighborhood Business Zoning District designates
areas in the community that are developed, or intended to be developed, with small-scale retail, commercial and
service uses that are supportive of the surrounding residential neighborhoods. Properties zoned B-2 are located
along key neighborhood corridors and at neighborhood nodes and are intended to serve the local community.
B. Permitted Uses. See Chapter 3: Allowed Uses.
C. Zoning District Dimensional Standards. Table [12-2B-8.1] identifies the Dimensional Standards for Principal and
Accessory Structures.
Table 12-2B-8.1 Neighborhood Business Dimensional and Lot Standards
Lot Dimensions
A Lot Size (minimum) 15,000 square feet
B Lot Width (minimum) 100 feet
Floor Area Ratio Maximum (FAR) 0.5
Principal Building Standards
C Front Yard Setback (minimum) 20 feet
D Side Yard Setback (minimum) 15 feet or equal to height of structure, whichever is greater
E Rear Yard Setback (minimum) 30 feet or equal to height of structure, whichever is greater
If adjacent to Residential Base Zoning District or
Residential Use 50 feet from all property lines
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 14
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
Height (maximum) 3 stories or 30 feet, whichever is less
Accessory Structure Standards
All Accessory Buildings
F Front Yard Setback Behind Principal Building
Side and Rear Yard Setbacks (minimum)
• Less than 144 Square Feet 5 feet
• 144 to 2,000 Square Feet 10 feet
• Over 2,000 Square Feet 15 feet
G Setback from Principal Building (minimum) 5 feet
Height (Maximum) May not exceed height of Principal Building
Size and Number One (1) Storage Building not to exceed 144 Square Feet is Permitted;
All other requires CUP
Accessory Structures (Not meeting definition of Building)
Setbacks Must meet all Accessory Building yard setbacks
Size No limit, must meet impervious surface requirements for all combined
improvements.
Other Standards
Building Coverage (maximum) 50%
Impervious Surface Coverage (maximum) 60%, or up to 75% with approved Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Parking See Section [X]
Figure 12-2B-8.1 Neighborhood Business Lot Diagram
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 15
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
12-2B-9 Industrial (I)
A. Purpose of Industrial (I) District. The Industrial Zoning District designates areas in the community that are
developed, or intended to be developed, with light and creative industrial uses. Examples of uses within the
Industrial Zoning District may include warehouses, light manufacturing, office, and utilities.
B. Permitted Uses. See Chapter 3: Allowed Uses.
C. Zoning District Dimensional Standards. Table [12-2B-9.1] identifies the Dimensional Standards for Principal and
Accessory Structures.
Table 12-2B-9.1 Industrial Dimensional and Lot Standards
Lot Dimensions
A Lot Size (minimum) 1 acre
B Lot Width (minimum) 100 feet
Floor Area Ratio (maximum) 0.5
Principal Building Standards
Front Yard Setback (minimum) 40 feet
C Front Yard Setback (minimum) 50 feet abutting a Residential Base Zoning District or Residential Use
D Side Yard Setback (minimum)
30 feet interior lot line
40 feet abutting a public street
50 feet abutting a Residential Base Zoning District or Residential Use
E Rear Yard Setback (minimum) 50 feet
100 feet abutting a Residential Base Zoning District or Residential Use
Height (maximum) 45 feet
Parking Setbacks
F Parking Spaces or Aisles
From any Public Right-of-Way (ROW) 20 feet
Any building or lot line 10 feet
Accessory Structure Standards
F Front Yard Setback Behind Principal Building
G Side and Rear Yard Setbacks (minimum)
• Less than 144 Square Feet 5 feet
• 144 to 2,000 Square Feet 10 feet
• Over 2,000 Square Feet 15 feet
H Setback from Principal Building 5 feet
Height May not exceed height of Principal Building
Size and Number One (1) Storage Building not to exceed 144 Square Feet is Permitted; All
other requires CUP
Accessory Structure (Not meeting definition of Building)
Setbacks Must meet all Accessory Building yard setbacks
Size No limit, must meet impervious surface requirements for all combined
improvements.
Other Standards
Building Coverage (maximum) 60%
Impervious Surface Coverage (maximum) 75%, up to 90% with approved Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Parking See [Section X]
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 16
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
Figure 12-2B-8.1 Industrial Lot Diagram
12-2B-10 State Park (SP)
A. Purpose of State Park District. The State Park District designates areas which are owned by the State of
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources and located within Fort Snelling State Park.
B. Permitted Uses. The uses permitted in the areas designated as State Park shall be as regulated and permitted by
Minnesota Department of Natural Resources.
C. Zoning District Dimensional Standards. The City of Mendota Heights incorporates the Minnesota Department of
Natural Resources (MNDNR) any applicable dimensional standards by reference into this Chapter.
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 17
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
ARTICLE C. OVERLAY ZONING DISTRICTS
12-2C-1 Traditional Neighborhood Overlay (TN-O)
A. Purpose of Traditional Neighborhood Overlay (TN-O) District. The TN-O Zoning District designates areas in the
community that were developed prior to 1981 with a traditional neighborhood pattern that includes smaller lot sizes
and reduced setback requirements. Properties zoned TN-O include the north neighborhood (as described by the
plats listed in Subsection 1), the central neighborhoods (as described by the plats listed in Subsection 2). Any
future redevelopment, including additions or other modifications, are intended to comply with the characteristics
and dimensional standards of the existing development patterns of these neighborhoods.
1. The North Neighborhood includes the only the following identified plats: Auditors Subdivision No. 4,
Brompton Courts, Cherokee Park Heights, Garden Lane Addition, Guadalupe Heights, Ivy Falls East
Addition, Ivy Keep North, John H Morrison Addition, Kirchner Addition, Lametti Addition No. 2, Mc Donnell’s
PR Addition, North Ivy Hills, North Ivy Hills 2nd Addition, Pierce CD Addition, Posavads Addition, Reiland
Place, Springers Subdivision.
2. The Central Neighborhoods include only the following identified plats: Friendly Hills Rearrangement,
Delaware Crossing and Delaware Crossing 2nd Addition.
B. Permitted Uses. See Chapter 3: Allowed Uses, R-1 Base Zoning District.
C. Overlay District Dimensional Standards. [Table 12-2C-1.1] identifies the Dimensional Standards for Principal and
Accessory Buildings.
Table 12-2C-1.1 TN-O Dimensional Standards
Lot Dimensions
A Lot Size (minimum for lots of record)
Lot Size (newly created lot)
7,500 square feet
15,000 square feet
B Lot Width (minimum for lots of record)
Lot Width (newly created lot)
50 feet
100 feet
Principal Building Standards
C Front Yard Setback
• Newly Created Lot (new plat) – minimum
• Existing lot of record (infill) - minimum
20 feet
[See Section 12-4A-3.D.2]
• Newly Create Lot (new plat) - maximum
• Existing Lot of record (infill) - maximum
30 feet
[See Section 12-4A-3.D.3]
D Side Yard Setback (minimum)
See Section [X] for calculation. A minimum setback of 5 feet must be maintained
for all interior lot lines.
30 feet abutting a street
E Rear Yard Setback (minimum) 30 feet
Height (maximum) See Section [X] for calculation. In no cases shall calculation result in a maximum
height that exceeds 25 feet.
Accessory Structure Standards
Private Garages
Number (maximum) One (1) detached or one (1) attached garage per Lot; see Section 12-4A-8.D.2
for Exception for Two Private Garages on a Lot.
Size (maximum)
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 18
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
• If Attached Private Garage 1,200 square feet
1,201 – 1,500 square feet with CUP
• If Detached Private Garage 750 square feet
751 – 1,000 square feet with CUP
Front Yard Setback (attached) Minimum Front Yard Setback of Principal Building
F Front Yard Setback (detached) Behind Principal Building front facade
Side and Rear Yard Setbacks (minimum) Corner lots must meet Principal Building side yard setback
• 144 to 2,000 Square Feet 10 feet
• Over 2,000 Square Feet 15 feet
Height (maximum) May not exceed height of Principal Building
• 144 to 2,000 Square Feet 15 feet, 1.5 stories
• Over 2,000 Square Feet 18 feet, 1.5 stories
G Setback from Principal Building 5 feet
Garage Doors
• Width (maximum measured
horizontally) 36 linear feet as viewed from the public right-of-way
• Height (maximum) 9 feet
Storage Building
Number (maximum) One (1); See Section [12-4A-8.E.a.iii] for Exception for Two Storage Buildings if
Chicken Coop/Run
Size (maximum) 144 square feet for one Storage Building; maximum of 225 square feet of
combined Storage Building and Chicken Coop/Run.
Front Yard Setback (minimum) Behind Principal Building Front façade
Side and Rear Yard Setback (minimum) 5 feet
Height (maximum) 10 feet, 1 story
Accessory Structure (not meeting definition of Building)
Setbacks Must meet all accessory building yard setbacks
Size No limit; must meet impervious surface requirements for all combined
improvements.
Other Standards
Building Coverage (maximum) 35%
Impervious Surface Coverage (maximum) 50%, or up to 65% with approved Best Management Practices (BMPs)
Parking, unenclosed Must be behind principal building
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 19
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
Figure 12-2C-1.1 TN-O Lot Diagram
12-2C-2 Public/Semi-Public Overlay District (PSP-O)
D. Purpose of Public Semi-Public (PSP) Overlay District. The PSP Overlay Zoning District designates areas in the
community that are developed and used for public and semi-public uses that are non-residential. Examples of
uses within the PSP Overlay Zoning District may include schools, golf courses, cemeteries, church campuses and
other areas where members of the public congregate. Properties zoned Public Semi-Public Overlay area often
adjacent to existing neighborhoods and serve the residents of the community.
E. Termination of PSP Overlay Use. If a property that is zoned PSP-O is no longer used consistent with the
standards established herein, the Base Zoning District standards, regulations and provisions shall govern.
F. Permitted Uses. See Chapter 3: Allowed Uses, and reference the applicable Base Zoning District.
G. Zoning District Dimensional Standards. Table [12-2C-2.1] identifies the Dimensional Standards for non-residential
Principal and Accessory Structures.
Table 12-2C-2.1 PSP-O Dimensional Standards
Lot Dimensions
Lot Size (minimum) 1 acre
Lot Width (minimum) 100 feet
Principal Building Standards
Front Yard Setback 75 feet
Side Yard Setback 50 feet
Rear Yard Setback 50 feet
Height (maximum) Base Zoning District, or up to 40 feet with CUP
Accessory Structure Standards
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 20
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
All Accessory Buildings
Front Yard Setback Principal Building Setback or Behind Principal Building, if present
Side and Rear Yard Setbacks
• Less than 144 Square Feet 10 feet
• 144 to 2,000 Square Feet 20 feet
• Over 2,000 Square Feet 50 feet
Setback from Principal Building 5 feet
Height May not exceed height of Principal Building; or 20 feet whichever is greater
Size and Number One (1) Storage Building not to exceed 144 square feet is Permitted; All
other requires CUP
Accessory Structures (not meeting definition of Building)
Setbacks Must meet all accessory structure setbacks
Size No limit; must meet impervious surface requirements for all combined
improvements.
Other Standards
Building Coverage (maximum) 50%
Impervious Surface Coverage (maximum) 60%, or up to 75% with approved Best Management Practices (BMPs)
12-2C-3 Planned Unit Development Overlay Districts (PUD)
A. Purpose of Planned Unit Development Overlay Zoning Districts (PUD). The purpose of the Planned Unit
Development is to encourage innovative and creative development of land that would not be permitted under the
strict application of a Base Zoning District. Such innovative or creative development may be:
1. Development that preserves the natural and scenic quality of open areas.
2. Development that encourages a diverse mix of housing types.
3. Usage of multiple Base Zoning Districts within one development area.
4. Other development solutions as approved by the City Council.
B. PUD as an Overlay Zoning District. All proposed PUD developments must be rezoned with a Base Zoning
District(s) and a designating PUD Overlay.
C. Permitted Uses. The permitted, conditional and accessory uses are generally as established within the Base
Zoning District. Flexibility, modifications or additional restrictions regarding uses shall be established by the City
Council during the PUD approval process.
D. Required Standards. A PUD Overlay District must demonstrate the following:
1. That the development and design is an appropriate use for the property and is compatible with surrounding
development.
2. That the streets and utilities are adequate and do not adversely affect the economical and efficient delivery
of municipal services.
3. That the scale of the development is compatible with adjacent land uses and is consistent with the standards
established in Chapter 4 of this Zoning Ordinance.
E. Overlay District Dimensional Standards. A separate PUD Overlay District shall govern each development project
or development area. The PUD must identify a Base Zoning District from which the development is derived. The
PUD must clearly state the dimensional standards from which flexibility is requested. If approved, the approved
standards for the PUD shall be established within the PUD Agreement and shall be deemed the Dimensional
Standards for that PUD Overlay District. The process and administration for each PUD Overlay District is
established in Chapter 5 of this Zoning Ordinance.
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 21
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
12-2C-4 Floodplain Overlay District (FP-O)
A. Purpose of Floodplain Overlay (FP-O) District. The FP-O Zoning District identifies lands that are designated by the
Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) as contained within the floodway or floodway that is further
defined in Zoning Ordinance [XX] Environment of the City’s Code of Ordinances.
B. FP-O as an Overlay Zoning District. The land contained within the FP-O may not follow parcel boundaries or lot
lines and the standards established are applicable to that portion of a property within the mapped overlay.
Determination of the land area contained within the FP-O is determined by the FIRM maps that are managed and
produced by FEMA. The process for amending or modifying the boundaries is established and regulated by FEMA
or its designated assigns.
C. Permitted Uses. The Permitted Uses are established for the Floodway and Floodplain District Areas as follows:
1. Floodway District Permitted Uses.
a. All buildings, structures, construction grading and deposits that are essential to the operation of the
community such as bridges, sewer outfalls, power and telephone line supports, and other services
structures.
b. Low damage or no damage potential uses such as agriculture, parking lots, parks, recreation areas and
docking facilities. Provided that no building, structure or improvements are erected, and no filling or
grading is undertaken unless they are designed and constructed to not obstruct flood flow. Plans for
such work must be approved in writing by the Public Works Director and must be filed with the City
Council.
2. Floodplain District Permitted Uses. All buildings, structures, construction grading and deposits that are
permitted under the Base Zoning District as established in Chapter 3. Allowed Uses, provided that:
a. No residence shall be constructed unless the ground upon which such residence is to be erected, and
20-feet beyond the limits of such residence, and the entire access drive to the public street shall prior to
or at the time of such construction, be raised to an elevation not less than one foot (1’) above the design
flood elevation as shown on the FIRM maps, and the first floor of such residence shall not be less than
three feet (3’) above the design flood elevation.
b. No basement floor shall be constructed to an elevation lower than the design flood elevation unless
such basement has been designed to withstand pressure from water at the design flood elevation and
certified by a registered professional engineer with such condition being made a part of the building
permit. No street grades shall be placed at a lower elevation that then design flood elevation.
c. Filling or excavating in the bed of a lake or stream below high-water mark or pumping water into or out
of water bodies may be permitted subject to the approval of the City Council and subject to a permit
previously obtained from the commissioner of natural resources as required by Minnesota State
Statutes.
d. Construction of streets, residences and other buildings at elevations bellow design flood elevations may
be permitted if adequate flood protection is provided. Any flood protective works must be approved in
writing by the City Council prior to the granting of building permits.
e. Issuance of Building Permit. Before a building permit shall be issued for a building, structure,
construction, grading or deposit for a floodway or floodplain, the applicant must provide a completed
application for building permits, all plans, exhibits and certification required by this Chapter and the
written approval of other governmental agencies as required by this Chapter and Zoning Ordinance
[XX]. Environment.
D. Overlay District Dimensional Standards. The dimensional standards are as established within the Base Zoning
District and within Zoning Ordinance [XX]. Environment.
Mendota Heights Zoning Ordinance 22
Chapter 2 DRAFT 4.21.2023
12-2C-5 Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area (MRCCA) Overlay District
A. Purpose of MRCCA Overlay District. The purpose of the MRCCA Overlay Zoning District is to establish standards
and requirements for land within proximity to the Mississippi River Corridor. The standards and areas contained
within the MRRCA Overlay District are established in Chapter 6 of this Zoning Ordinance.
B. Permitted Uses. The permitted, conditional and accessory uses are generally as established for the Base Zoning
District as identified in Chapter 3. Allowed Uses. Additional standards regarding land within the MRCCA Overlay
District boundary are established in Chapter 6. Mississippi River Corridor Critical Area.
C. Overlay District Dimensional Standards. The dimensional standards of the Base Zoning District and as contained
within Chapter 6 shall be applicable.