File #: 13-173M    Name: New and Unlisted Use - Community Garden
Type: Agenda Item Status: Approved
In control: Planning & Zoning Commission
On agenda: 8/27/2013 Final action: 8/27/2013
Title: Consider/Discuss/Act on a Resolution Establishing what Zoning District(s) are Appropriate for a New and Unlisted Land Use, "Community Garden"
Attachments: 1. Section 146-43 of the Zoning Ordinance
Related files: 13-173M2
Title
Consider/Discuss/Act on a Resolution Establishing what Zoning District(s) are Appropriate for a New and Unlisted Land Use, "Community Garden"

Summary
MEETING DATE: August 27, 2013

DEPARTMENT: Planning

CONTACT: Michael Quint, Director of Planning

APPROVAL PROCESS: The recommendation of the Planning and Zoning Commission will be forwarded to the City Council for action at the September 17, 2013 meeting.

STAFF RECOMMENDATION: Staff recommends that the new and unlisted use, "Community Garden," be allowed as indicated below:

1. A "Community Garden" shall be permitted by right in all zoning districts which includes every character district of the "MTC" - McKinney Town Center District.

2. "Community Garden" shall mean an area with a lot size of less than three acres that is utilized for the cultivation of horticultural goods including but not limited to fruits, vegetables and herbs. Community gardens shall not include the retail sale or barter of any goods.

3. The parking requirements for a "Community Garden" shall be one parking space for every 21,780 square feet (1/2 acre) of gardening area for gardens that are 21,780 square feet in area or larger; however, no parking shall be required for gardens with a gardening area of less than 21,780 square feet.

ITEM SUMMARY: Staff was recently approached by a City of McKinney resident who is proposing to establish a series of small community gardens in and around the City of McKinney, both in some residential and non-residential zoning districts. These community gardens will allow local residents and citizens to cultivate gardens that will be used to benefit the less fortunate residents of McKinney and Collin County. While attempting to ascertain whether or not the Zoning Ordinance would allow such a use to be operated within the City, Staff encountered a series of complications.

The Zoning Ordinance's Schedule of Uses (Appendix F-4) does not include a community garden land use cat...

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